Articles tagged with Female Fertility
A new study using stem cell-based models has revealed how early embryo cells decide between contributing to the foetus or to the supporting yolk sac. Understanding this decision is crucial for infertility treatment using in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos, as producing the right number of yolk sac forming cells may be critical.
Researchers discovered that sperm in insects can adapt to sexually transmitted microbes, with fertility reduced by 1/5th when sperm and microbes are unfamiliar. This finding may explain mixed results from human studies on the impact of microbes on male fertility.
A study found female health apps exposing users to unnecessary privacy and safety risks through poor data handling practices. Researchers discovered apps coercing users into entering sensitive information that could put them at risk.
A new study published in JAMA Health Forum found that following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization ruling, permanent sterilization procedures among young adults increased nationwide, with tubal sterilizations rising twice as high as vasectomies. The study also highlighted the disproportionate impact on young women, who ar...
By 2100, over 97% of countries will have fertility rates below replacement level, leading to huge shifts in global livebirths and significant challenges for economies. Low-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa are expected to continue driving population increases despite declining fertility rates globally.
Women with selected rheumatic diseases experience a higher prevalence of childlessness, while risks for pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm delivery are increased for many conditions. Men with rheumatic conditions also face a higher risk of childlessness, although the impact on fertility varies among different diseases.
A large study of 2.2 million teenage girls found that teen pregnancy increases the risk of premature mortality later in life. The researchers suggest that support for pregnant teenagers may help prevent future premature deaths.
Research highlights significant security, privacy and safety issues in female-oriented technologies, including period-tracker apps and fertility smart devices. The study found inadequate regulations and industry practices in data collection and sharing, posing a potential threat to users' sensitive information.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism by which oocytes remain healthy for decades without succumbing to the wear and tear that would cause other cell types to fail. The study reveals the presence of EndoLysosomal Vesicular Assemblies, specialized structures that capture and hold onto protein aggregates, rendering them harmless.
A Tel Aviv University study found that women in this age group experience increased AMH secretion when exposed to UV radiation from the sun. This increase in hormone levels is associated with a positive effect on fertility.
Researchers analyze how companies use feminist narratives to promote unscientific tests and treatments for women, often with uncertain effectiveness. This marketing behavior risks harming women, contributing to overdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Two new studies by UCL researchers found that nearly half of teenagers are worried about having children due to fear, self-doubt, and lack of education on reproductive health. The studies also highlighted gaps in sex education, with many students expressing concerns about endometriosis, infertility, and the impact of lifestyle on ferti...
Scientists at University of California San Diego have developed a noninvasive approach to detect exRNA molecules in leftover culture media, which can help predict embryo quality and IVF success. By analyzing these molecules, the researchers were able to replicate morphological measurements used in current embryo tests.
A new study from Mass General Brigham researchers found that women who experienced more preconception stress had higher blood sugar levels during pregnancy, a predictor of current and long-term cardiovascular health. The study also discovered that socioeconomic status was associated with preconception stress and blood glucose levels.
Researchers found that kisspeptin neurons with dynorphin receptors are crucial for hormone secretion and ovulation. The study provides new insights into the central mechanism underlying reproduction and may lead to treatment of ovarian disorders.
A large international sample of single women aged 18-67 years was surveyed on their ideal partner characteristics, revealing links between age and preferences. Most attributes were consistently important across ages, but higher age correlated with a preference for confident partners and greater acceptance of younger partners.
Researchers redesigned IVF needles to reduce fluid flow damage to eggs, improving oocyte collection and IVF success rates. The study uses computer models and mathematical simulations to optimize the design, which has been successfully tested in cattle, with plans for human trials.
Scientists at Buck Institute reveal how NAD+ decline affects female reproductive function and longevity. Adding CD38 to the puzzle, they found that this enzyme degrades NAD+, accelerating aging processes. Targeting CD38 may offer new approaches to enhance fertility and overall healthspan.
Female cancer survivors perceive high fertility risks despite actual rates being lower, highlighting need for counseling on infertility risk throughout survivorship. Counseling may reduce misalignment between perceptions and actual risk, decreasing fertility-related distress and informing family planning decisions.
The special issue explores achievements and challenges in reproductive endocrinology and infertility medicine, presenting strategies to bridge the gap between societal obligations and practice. Access to care remains a challenge for varying populations within societies and underserved regions.
A new $1.9 million NIH grant will investigate the role of glycogen in supporting healthy pregnancies. The study aims to understand how glycogen storage in the uterus affects fertility and pregnancy loss, with a focus on obesity's impact on uterine glycogen metabolism.
Researchers found four main barriers to healthy diets in young female cancer survivors with fertility challenges, including lack of trust in healthcare providers and motivation. To overcome these barriers, nutrition programs should use evidence-based strategies and tools like motivational interviewing and social support.
The editorial discusses epigenetic mechanisms leading to oocyte quality loss, a significant factor in age-related fertility decline. Researchers highlight the importance of understanding this process to address the growing issue of advanced maternal age and its impact on reproduction.
Researchers discovered a bacterial protein that contributes to genomic instability and birth defects. The study found that mice exposed to the protein experienced reduced fertility and increased birth defects, shedding light on potential cancer connections.
Researchers found a 30% higher likelihood of live births when eggs were collected in summer rather than autumn. They also discovered that bright sunshine on the day of egg collection increased the chances of a successful pregnancy.
A new Boston University study found that COVID vaccines likely do not affect menstrual cycle regularity, bleed length, or pain. Menstrual cycles increased by 1.1 days after a first dose and 1.3 days after a second, but these changes resolved within one to two cycles.
A new study published in Human Reproduction found that women with endometriosis are more likely to experience a reduction in live births before receiving a definitive diagnosis. The research, which included over 18,000 women with surgically-confirmed endometriosis, showed that the number of first live births among these women was half ...
A novel hydrogel has been developed to induce endometrial regeneration and elucidate its mechanism, offering new hope for patients struggling with infertility. The gel, made from uterus-derived decellularized extracellular matrix, successfully regenerated the endometrium in mice, creating a favorable environment for embryo implantation.
Researchers found that four weeks of shift work-like patterns in female mice disrupted their biological clock and reduced fertility. The study suggests that circadian disturbances impact female fertility and may lead to future prevention strategies.
A new study found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) improved the quality of aging females' egg cells in roundworms by reducing embryonic death and chromosomal abnormalities. Replication in fruit flies confirmed the findings, suggesting a shared signaling system between species.
A diet high in fruit and vegetables is associated with a lower miscarriage risk, with significant reductions seen for each food group. The meta-analysis of 20 studies found that consuming high amounts of fruit may reduce the risk by up to 61%, while high vegetable intake is linked to a 41% reduction.
A new study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that time-restricted fasting affects reproduction differently in male and female zebrafish. After returning to normal food consumption levels, females increased offspring production at the cost of reduced egg quality, while male sperm quality also decreased.
A new IVF method using time-lapse monitoring has been found not to improve pregnancy rates or shorten the time it takes to get pregnant. The study, which evaluated 1731 patients over a year, also found that this approach does not lead to extra costs or benefits.
A new condition, Caesarean Scar Disorder (CSDi), has been defined by an international study led by Amsterdam UMC. More than 30% of women who undergo a caesarean section experience long-term symptoms like abdominal pain and fertility problems, caused by abnormal uterine scars.
A new study has found that female participants with MS were no more likely to experience a disease flare-up after receiving fertility treatments than before. The study also discovered a link between the use of MS medications and a lack of increase in relapses during fertility treatments.
A new clinical review provides an overview of endometriosis causes, diagnosis, and management based on the latest evidence. The review aims to help clinicians and patients understand this complex condition, which affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age.
Researchers at Houston Methodist discovered a way to reverse infertility in sterile mice by reducing high-circulating cholesterol with a bacterial protein. The study showed that this protein, called serum opacity factor, lowered HDL cholesterol levels by over 40% in three hours and restored fertility in the mice.
Research led by Professor Corey Bradshaw found that higher baby death rates and larger household sizes contribute to higher fertility rates, supporting the need for greater access to family planning and contraception. The study suggests that increasing access to quality contraception can help reduce infant mortality and curb population...
A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that men who regularly lift heavy objects at work have higher sperm counts. Men with more physical jobs also had higher levels of testosterone and estrogen, counterintuitively.
A new study reveals naked mole-rats produce eggs throughout their lives, contrary to the dogma that female mammals have a finite ovarian reserve. The research found that these rodents have exceptionally large numbers of egg cells and lower cell death rates compared to mice.
Researchers developed a low-concentration cryoprotective agent vitrification method to preserve mouse preantral follicles, improving survival rates by 1/3. The approach integrated microencapsulation and physical heating techniques for enhanced cell protection.
A recent meta-analysis published in Human Reproduction Update reveals a significant worldwide decline in sperm counts of over 50% in the past 46 years. The study also shows an accelerated post-2000 decline in sperm counts globally.
Researchers identify PRC1 as key to establishing and maintaining ovarian reserve, providing insights into female reproductive health and lifespan. The study's findings may help explain premature ovarian failure and infertility in humans.
A new study published in Cochrane Reviews found that tocolytics, or preterm delay treatments, are beneficial for women worldwide. The researchers reviewed 122 clinical trials and concluded that the benefits of these drugs outweigh any risks associated with side effects.
Researchers found that nearly 80% of women with blocked fallopian tubes could conceive naturally after a simple diagnostic procedure and treatment, called selective salpingography and fallopian tube recanalization. The study suggests that this treatment could provide clarity on infertility and offer a life-changing option for many women.
Research involving nearly 250,000 US families found that medically assisted reproduction techniques, including IVF, do not significantly affect birth weight and pregnancy term. Once family circumstances are considered, the differences between MAR-conceived babies and naturally conceived children become insignificant.
A survey of 121 fertility specialists in Australia, UK, and New Zealand found that endometrial scratching is still offered by 34% of clinics despite lack of evidence, primarily for psychological benefits. Many respondents considered the procedure's drawbacks, including pain and cost.
A new study found that women whose menstrual cycle length increased two years before menopause had better vascular health than those with stable cycles. Changes in cycle length may predict cardiovascular disease risk, allowing clinicians to recommend preventive strategies.
Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 to create sterile male mosquitoes that suppress female fertility in Ae. aegypti. This reduction in female fertility can help combat disease spread by increasing the presence of sterile males in wild populations.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have created sterile male mosquitoes using CRISPER/Cas9, a technique that could suppress Aedes aegypti populations. The study found that the mutant males produced no sperm but still suppressed female fertility, making them effective in controlling mosquito populations.
Researchers found that fruit fly ovules use a molecular 'alarm clock' to track time and turn genes back on when ready for ovulation. This mechanism is critical for female fertility, as defects can lead to infertility.
A study published in PLoS ONE found that men are less likely to match their language to a female conversation partner if she is fertile. The researchers suggest that this could be a way for men to display their mating fitness.
A recent study published in Oikos found that female birds' fertility declines less quickly when they mate with healthier, more experienced males who became first-time fathers at a younger age. This suggests that male partners play a role in how fast females pass their prime.
A new study found that female birds' fertility declines less quickly if they choose mates who became first-time fathers at a young age. This suggests that the 'history' of a male's reproductive past plays a role in his ability to care for his partner and offspring.
Male chimpanzees show a preference for mating with older females, a stark contrast to human behavior where younger females are often preferred. This finding suggests that long-term pair bonding and menopause may have evolved in the human lineage after diverging from chimpanzees.
A study by Swedish researchers found that nearly all women wanted children, but only 3% preferred to delay their last birth until between 35 and 39. Many women also delayed their first child until their 40s. The study highlights the need for increased awareness of age-related decline in female fertility.
For couples experiencing unexplained infertility, a five-step treatment program has shown a 75% success rate in conception. The program includes careful evaluation and escalating steps such as antibiotics, intra-uterine insemination, and IVF with ICSI.
A comprehensive examination of 100 female statuettes carved in Europe between 30,000 and 20,000 years ago suggests they prioritized the health of mother and child during childbirth. The statuettes depict physical effects of pregnancy and show little evidence of long-term use.