Articles tagged with Childbirth
Researchers at UEA are developing a virtual birthing simulator that takes into account individual factors such as mother's body shape and baby positioning. The system will enable healthcare professionals to predict potential complications and advise on necessary interventions, aiming to reduce complicated births.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that subclinical hypocalcemia, a condition of low blood calcium levels, is related to higher levels of fat in the liver. This can lead to health problems such as ketosis, uterus and mammary infections, and decreased milk production.
A new study by Oxford University found that while obesity increases the risk of complications in childbirth, the risks are not the same for all obese women. Healthy first-time mothers of normal weight face a higher risk of medical interventions and complications than 'very obese' but otherwise healthy women having their second or subse...
A study of North Carolina birth records found that induced and augmented childbirth may be associated with a higher risk of autism diagnosis in childhood. The analysis of over 625,000 births revealed a significant association between labor induction/augmentation and increased odds of autism, particularly in male children.
A new study found that adolescent girls who were abused or neglected had a teenage childbirth rate of 20.3%, more than double the national average. The study suggests that primary prevention programs targeting sexual activity could help mitigate this risk.
A recent study found that women with gestational diabetes are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, with a significant defect in insulin secretion identified as a key factor. The study's findings indicate that up to half of Asian women who had gestational diabetes may develop Type 2 diabetes within eight years of giving birth.
A new study by the University of Iowa confirms that pregnancy leads to permanent changes in a woman's feet, including increased length and width. The arch of the foot flattens out, potentially contributing to an increased risk of arthritis in women.
A four-year health care project in India's poorest district resulted in a half-fall in infant mortality and a three-quarters reduction in women's death from pregnancy and childbirth complications. Nurse-based clinics expanded access to healthcare, changing attitudes towards patients and leading to increased check-ups and hospital births.
Human pregnancy length is limited by a mother's metabolism, not birth canal size, according to new research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The EGG hypothesis suggests that babies are born when their mother cannot put any more energy into gestation and fetal growth.
A review of 172 studies found insufficient evidence to support the use of misoprostol in preventing postpartum hemorrhage in low-income countries. Researchers argue that resources should be focused on improving primary care facilities rather than relying on a pill to prevent every illness.
A new study estimates that contraceptive use prevents more than 272,000 maternal deaths from childbirth each year. The researchers found that satisfying the global unmet need for contraception could reduce maternal deaths by an additional 30%. Effective contraception also averts nearly 230 million unintended births annually.
A new study reveals that women in hedge funds struggle with 'adulting' due to societal expectations of maturity and work-life balance. Women face problems at every stage of adult life, from getting hired to balancing work and parenthood, whereas men are given more opportunities to settle into corporate life.
A study by University of Granada researchers found that immigrant women in Spain experience great stress during childbirth, with disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder and depression common among them. The study also revealed differences in healthcare access and utilization between immigrant and Spanish women.
A team of researchers has discovered that the Taung fossil's persistent metopic suture may have evolved as an adaptation for giving birth to babies with larger brains, allowing for rapid brain growth after birth. This finding suggests a complex interplay between childbirth and upright walking in the evolution of human brain size.
New studies reveal lower fetal/infant death risks among planned repeat caesarean sections, while higher uterine rupture risk found in women with multiple previous caesarean sections. Research emphasizes pragmatic studies to improve maternal and infant care.
A recent study has quantified the impact of unsafe water and poor sanitation on child and maternal mortality. The research found that countries with inadequate access to safe water had significantly higher death rates among children under five, with a difference of 4.7 deaths per 1,000 children.
A recent study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found no association between first-trimester induced abortion and increased risk of psychiatric readmission among women with a history of treated mental disorders. In contrast, the risk was higher during the first month after childbirth.
A new virtual childbirth simulator using MRI-based computer software has been developed to improve the safety of high-risk deliveries. The software simulates the properties of potential deliveries and scores each mother's likelihood of a normal birth.
Researchers at Poggio Colla excavation site in Italy discovered a ceramic fragment with two images of a woman giving birth to a child, over 2,600 years old. The unique find is the first of its kind ever found in an Etruscan excavation, providing new insights into the culture.
A new study found that fear of childbirth is a predisposing factor for emergency and elective cesarean sections. The research analyzed 353 women with fear of childbirth and 579 without the condition, revealing a higher incidence of traumatic deliveries and induced inductions.
The Harvard School of Public Health is testing a WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist program in 120 hospitals in India to reduce deaths and improve outcomes for mothers and infants. The four-year study aims to evaluate the impact of the checklist program on maternal and infant mortality rates.
Women with breastfeeding difficulties in the first two weeks after giving birth are more likely to experience postpartum depression at two months, according to a new study. The study found that women who disliked breastfeeding and those with severe breast pain were at higher risk of depression.
A Baylor University study found that flexible schedules play a crucial role in retaining working mothers, with job security and adaptability also contributing to reduced turnover and work-related stress. The research surveyed 179 full-time working mothers, highlighting the importance of supporting their mental and physical health.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that urinary incontinence after giving birth doubles a woman's risk of developing postpartum depression. The study, which evaluated nearly 1,900 new mothers, identified five key predictors of postpartum depression, including urinary incontinence.
Research reveals that women's attitudes toward birth technology coincide with their choice of healthcare providers, with midwives reporting less favourable views. A generation gap is also seen among obstetricians, with younger doctors favouring routine epidural analgesia and Cesarean section over vaginal births.
A recent study found that the number of women dying from complications of anesthesia during childbirth has plummeted 59 percent, thanks to better monitoring and medical techniques. The risks associated with general anesthesia have been dramatically reduced, but regional anesthetic-related deaths have slightly increased.
The Atlas of Birth project provides a comprehensive picture of maternal health globally, highlighting high rates of death in sub-Saharan Africa and India. The interactive online map aims to inform policymakers and advocates on ways to reduce preventable deaths of girls and women in childbirth.
Researchers found teenage mothers more likely to have premature babies due to biological immaturity and social factors. The study highlights the importance of antenatal care and post-natal contraception for pregnant teenagers.
The article shares harrowing accounts of women who gave birth during the Israeli assault on Gaza strip in December 2008 and January 2009. The women described severe trauma, complications such as sepsis and hypothermia, and their heroic struggles to survive with their families amidst destruction.
The Global Report on Preterm & Stillbirth identifies known causes and 21 proven interventions to improve these outcomes. A new repository of tissue samples will contribute to global research, helping to understand the causes of preterm birth and stillbirth.
Researchers report that black women are significantly more likely to develop peripartum cardiomyopathy, a potentially deadly weakening of the heart muscle around childbirth. The study found that African-American race was the most important predictor, with 93% of those who developed cardiomyopathy being black.
A Kansas State University study found that people favor mothers who stay at home full-time over those who work outside the home, even when the working mother's child is involved. The study also showed that participants devalue mothers employed full-time and perceive their children as troubled and their relationships as problematic.
A study by Dr. Tiziana Nazio found that public sector workers are more likely to have children due to the relative security of employment, flexible hours, and career progression linked to seniority. In contrast, men's careers do not directly influence their decision to have children, but rather the pattern of women's careers and househ...
The study found a significant decrease in delivery-related perinatal deaths in term infants, with a 38% reduction in overall mortality rates. The largest contributor was a decline in oxygen deprivation cases, which dropped by 48%.
Data show ATryn safely prevents peri-operative and peri-partum acute deep vein thrombosis in patients with hereditary antithrombin deficiency. Dosing algorithms allow for normalization of antithrombin levels during high-risk situations, providing a safe treatment option.
A £2.8m grant will support a three-year programme to increase skilled birth attendance and quality obstetric care in 5 target countries, aiming to reduce maternal and newborn deaths. The programme will evaluate the impact of training and supportive supervision on healthcare provider capacity and care delivery.
A recent study found that post-partum haemorrhage is a significant threat to new mothers in high-income countries, resulting in severe outcomes including infertility and death. The authors recommend increased access to active management of the third stage of labour to reduce PPH rates.
Anthropologist Karen Rosenberg sheds light on the evolutionary significance of childbirth, revealing that social assistance during labor is a distinctive human characteristic. Her research highlights the importance of cooperative childcare and social intelligence in reproductive success.
Research found that normal-weight mothers who accurately assessed their pre-pregnancy weight had half the odds of excessive gestational weight gain compared to those who underestimated. Under-assessors were younger, non-white, lower-income, and less educated, with poorer dietary habits.
High-profile meeting at UN General Assembly tackles financing issues surrounding MDG 4 and 5; authors emphasize need for innovative financing to reduce maternal and child mortality. A child dies every 3 seconds, a mother every minute, the statement reads.
Scientists found that delaying childbirth has contributed to rising caesarean sections, with advancing maternal age associated with impaired uterine function. The study suggests that understanding the effects of age on childbirth is crucial in addressing increasing rates of intervention in pregnancy.
The HealthGrades Women's Health in American Hospitals study found that top-performing hospitals have significantly lower maternal complications rates for vaginal births (51% fewer) and C-sections (76% fewer). These top-hospitals also saw improved cardiovascular disease mortality rates, with a 15% overall reduction from 2004 to 2006.
Research shows that ewes fed a diet enriched with polyunsaturated fats have a significantly higher chance of giving birth to male offspring. This finding suggests that dietary composition around conception can influence sex ratio in farm species.
A study found that doula support during labor significantly reduced cesarean delivery rates by 12% and the need for epidurals by 11%. Continuous presence of a non-medical companion provided benefits even when male partners or family members were present.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that behavioral change strategies improved public hospital care in Latin America by reducing bleeding and saving lives. Interventions reduced episiotomies and increased oxytocin use, leading to significant improvements in childbirth safety.
The Duke of York highlights a global shortage of trained anaesthetists, inadequate equipment, and poor healthcare facilities in the developing world. Effective anesthesia is crucial for universal human rights, including safe childbirth and relief from pain, but progress has stalled due to lack of investment.
A large study of Australian women found that epidurals during labor and birth are associated with decreased rates of breastfeeding in both the short-term and long-term. Women who had epidurals were more likely to experience difficulty breastfeeding and give up breastfeeding before six months compared to those without analgesia.
Researchers at PLOS Medicine analyzed gene expression in labor and autoimmune disease APS1, finding complex networks of co-regulated genes. The study highlights the importance of making original data available for reanalysis.
A recent study found that women who have undergone Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) are more likely to experience difficulties during childbirth and their babies are at a higher risk of death. The study also estimated that in the African context, an additional one to two babies die per 100 deliveries due to FGM.
A recent WHO study found that female genital mutilation (FGM) is associated with a higher risk of baby loss and complications during childbirth, including prolonged hospital stays. The study analyzed data from over 28,000 women across six countries in Africa.
A neoprene suit, called NASG, can save lives of women suffering from obstetrical hemorrhaging due to childbirth by reversing shock and decreasing bleeding. The study found a 69% decrease in death and severe illness among patients treated with the NASG.
A new study suggests that persistent fatigue is a better indicator of postpartum depression than stress or family history. Women who experienced prolonged fatigue were more likely to develop symptoms of postpartum depression, highlighting the importance of early screening and intervention.
Maternal mortality rates in Canada are significantly higher than those in many developed countries, according to a Canadian Medical Association Journal study. The findings highlight the need for improved maternal healthcare and increased awareness of pregnancy-related complications.
A new study by UT Southwestern researchers found that coaching women to push during labor does not significantly affect the length of labor or long-term pelvic floor problems. However, coached women experienced shorter labors and smaller bladder capacities, with bladder function returning to normal over time.
A study published in The Lancet found that pregnant women with maternal placental syndromes have a double the relative risk of premature cardiovascular disease. Women with restricted fetal growth or pre-existing risk factors for cardiovascular disease are at higher risk.
Research shows that limiting episiotomies can lead to less perineal trauma, fewer need for suturing, and fewer postpartum complications. Episiotomy rates vary widely across countries and regions, with the US having a higher rate than many other English-speaking countries.
A new study explores how consumers perceive risks in natural vs medicalized childbirth, revealing cultural anxieties over technology and loss of autonomy. The research highlights the struggles consumers face when approaching childbirth and the risks associated with both natural and medicalized methods.
A survey of over 250 women found that prolonged labor can have a significant emotional impact on first-time mothers, with 60% reporting it will affect them for life. Despite this, many women remain calm and find the experience exciting, with 84% saying they were excited to give birth.
The RELEASE study is a randomised clinical trial testing a new technique to treat retained placenta, aiming to improve outcomes for women in developing countries and the UK. The technique involves injecting oxytocin into the placenta via umbilical cord injection.
A study conducted in South Africa found that mild iron deficiency in mothers can disrupt healthy mother/infant interactions. The research showed that mildly iron-deficient mothers were less sensitive to their baby's cues and appeared bored or distant more frequently, leading to changes in child behavior.