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Progesterone and bisexuality: Is there a link?

A study found that men and women whose mothers received additional doses of progesterone while pregnant were significantly less likely to identify as heterosexual. They also showed higher rates of same-sex attraction and behavior, suggesting a potential link between prenatal progesterone exposure and human sexuality.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateApr 3, 2017

Socioeconomic status and prior pregnancy affect women's treatment choices when suffering miscarriage

A study found that women with higher incomes and social support are more likely to choose surgery over medication for miscarriage. Patients who have been pregnant before tend to know how they want the miscarriage managed, while those without prior pregnancy rely on doctors' advice. The research emphasizes the need for evidence-based, p...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 10, 2017

Transplanted bone marrow-derived cells reduce recurrent miscarriage in mice

Researchers discovered that transplanted bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can contribute to better blood vessel growth, leading to reduced recurrent miscarriages. The study found that EPCs homed to the placenta and worked to normalize uterine blood vessel patterns, resulting in a reduced rate of miscarriage.

Lack of stem cells to blame for recurrent miscarriages

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a lack of stem cells in the womb lining is causing thousands of women to suffer from recurrent miscarriages. The team believes a new treatment could bring hope to those who have suffered failed pregnancies, correcting defects before pregnancy and potentially preventing miscarriages.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalStem Cells·DateMar 7, 2016

Miscarriage clues identified in new DNA test according to researchers at Montefiore and Einstein

Researchers have developed a new DNA test that can identify chromosomal variants and abnormalities in nearly 50% of miscarriage samples. The rescue karyotyping technique allows physicians to obtain genetic information from archived tissue, providing valuable insights into the causes of miscarriage.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalReproductive Biology and Endocrinology·DateMar 19, 2014

Women working shifts are at greater risk of miscarriage, menstrual disruption and subfertility

A meta-analysis of studies found that women working shifts experience a higher rate of menstrual disruption (33% increase) and subfertility (80% increase), while night shift work only increases the risk of miscarriage. The study suggests that altering circadian rhythms can lead to short- and long-term biological disturbances.

Deadly carbon monoxide prevents miscarriage

Researchers discovered that low-dose carbon monoxide therapy restored placental function, preventing fetal death and growth restriction. The treatment also showed anti-inflammatory properties and increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, promoting blood vessel repair.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMedical Gas Research·DateFeb 19, 2012

Potential new cause of miscarriage and habitual abortion

A team of researchers has identified a non-classical form of Fetal and Neonatal Immune Thrombocytopenia (FNIT) that causes excessive platelet activation and blood clot formation in the placenta, leading to miscarriage. The condition can be prevented with intravenous IgG and anti-FcRn therapies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 24, 2011

Miscarriage diagnosis guidelines questioned

Research published in Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that current definitions for miscarriage diagnosis can lead to incorrect diagnoses. The studies also revealed a 20% variation in gestational sac sizes reported by different clinicians, which can cause false conclusions about pregnancy growth.

SourceWiley·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 13, 2011

No strong evidence to support aspirin use for IVF

A systematic review found that taking aspirin during IVF did not increase a woman's chances of becoming pregnant. There is limited evidence on the potential benefits and risks of aspirin use in IVF, with some studies suggesting improved blood flow to the womb and ovaries.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateAug 9, 2011

Researchers can predict accurately the outcome of pregnancies threatening to miscarry

Researchers have developed a Pregnancy Viability Index (PVI) that can accurately predict the outcome of pregnancies threatening to miscarry. The PVI combines two key factors - bleeding and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) levels - to provide a reliable means of predicting which pregnancies will continue and which will miscarry, ulti...