Pregnancy Complications

Immune system overreaction linked to deadly flu in pregnancy

Heart disease risk may start in the womb, study finds

Study finds no link between first trimester pain reliever use and birth defects

A large Israeli pregnancy registry study found no association between first-trimester nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use and major congenital malformations. The study analyzed over 264,000 pregnancies and found no increased risk of birth defects, even at higher doses.

Gestational blood glucose management: A potential strategy to reduce pre-eclampsia risk

A large multicenter retrospective study found that stable gestational glucose levels and minimal fluctuations increase the likelihood of low pre-eclampsia risk. The study's key findings suggest that blood glucose management is crucial for preventing pre-eclampsia, particularly in pregnant women with no pre-pregnancy chronic conditions.

Mount Sinai experts present on PCOS and disparities in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy at 2026 ACOG Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting

Researchers present findings on sociodemographic disparities in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, highlighting the need for better characterization and management of these conditions. Dr. Basma S. Faris discusses reframing PCOS as a chronic disease requiring longitudinal care.

Blood tests taken years earlier linked to pregnancy risk

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that small abnormalities in blood sugar, lipids, and inflammation years before pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and pre-eclampsia. The findings may contribute to earlier risk assessment and preventive measures.

Racism and socioeconomic stress may alter pregnancy biology, leaving black women nearly three times more likely to die

A study by the University of Cambridge found that racism and socioeconomic stress can alter key physiological processes in the body during pregnancy, leading to higher rates of preeclampsia and preterm birth in black women. These changes are not due to genetic differences but rather persistent socio-environmental stressors.

Newly identified symptoms may predict eclampsia risk in pregnancy

Researchers identified ten previously unknown symptoms strongly associated with eclampsia, including twitching and impaired speech. These symptoms were rare among women without seizures but frequently occurred before an episode, increasing the risk of seizures.

Reproductive justice framework essential to addressing inequities in high-risk pregnancy care

A Reproductive Justice (RJ) lens is crucial for addressing systemic inequities in high-risk pregnancy care, argues a new commentary. This approach recognizes that structural forces, not just medical factors, shape the options available to families navigating complex fetal diagnoses.

Largest study of pregnancy sickness uncovers six new genetic links

A massive genetic study has uncovered six new genes linked to pregnancy sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), in over 10,000 women. The findings point to biological mechanisms behind HG and potential new treatment pathways, with several medications identified as potential targets.

Women with diabetes less likely to receive preventive care and some screenings

A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that women with diabetes are less likely to receive recommended preventive care services such as conception counseling and breast/cervical cancer screening. This oversight puts them at risk for preventable medical conditions like pregnancy complications.

More Americans are traveling farther for maternity care, study finds

Access to hospital-based obstetric care declined across the US as hospitals closed labor and delivery units between 2010-2021. Rural communities were hit hardest, with access dropping by over 50% in some areas.

Reducing the risk of recurrent preterm births using probiotics

Researchers found that early pregnancy probiotics containing Clostridium butyricum significantly reduced the recurrence rate of spontaneous preterm delivery, a major cause of neonatal illness and death. The study suggests that probiotic therapy may offer a simple strategy to prevent premature births in women at high risk.

Study finds a pregnancy complication that can increase a child’s risk of heart disease

A Rutgers Health study found that children born to mothers with premature placental separations are three times more likely to develop or die from cardiovascular disease. This risk is higher among those younger than 12 months old, and pregnant women over 35 or experiencing twin pregnancies are also at increased risk.

SMFM issues new clinical guidance for cancer diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy

The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine has released the first evidence-based clinical guidance for cancer diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy. The guidance aims to support both maternal health and pregnancy goals, while also prioritizing effective cancer therapy and fetal well-being.

Extending monitoring period for severe pregnancy complications shows more than 40% of cases previously missed

A study extending pregnancy monitoring from conception to 6 weeks postpartum found nearly 10,000 cases of severe maternal complications in Canada each year. This reveals significant cases were previously missed, emphasizing the importance of postpartum care and timely interventions.

Maternal race and immigration linked to obstetric trauma: higher risk among Asian mothers and Black immigrant/refugee mothers

A large study found that Asian mothers experience a 1.5-fold higher rate of obstetric trauma, while Black immigrant and refugee mothers have a 20-30% higher risk. The study also found that immigrants with shorter duration of residence had higher initial risk of obstetric trauma, which declined with increasing time in Canada.

Half of newborns with severe spina bifida have trouble breathing during sleep

Researchers discovered that 53% of newborns with myelomeningocele had sleep-disordered breathing, highlighting the need for routine screening and early intervention to prevent long-term complications. The study's findings suggest that addressing sleep disorders in high-risk infants could meaningfully improve their neurodevelopment.

Global gaps in use of two life-saving antenatal treatments for premature babies, reveals worldwide analysis

A global analysis of two antenatal treatments reveals significant international variation in implementation, with higher-income countries showing better uptake. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the reasons behind these disparities and improve global equity in essential antenatal treatments.

New drug candidate prevents preterm birth in preclinical studies

New research shows that Rytvela, an anti-inflammatory drug candidate, decreases premature birth and infant mortality when administered after the onset of preterm labor in a preclinical mouse model. The treatment prolongs gestation and fetal growth while allowing newborn organs to develop in utero.

COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy may help prevent preeclampsia

A multinational study found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of preeclampsia. The study suggests that maternal vaccination may influence pathways involved in preeclampsia development, potentially offering protection even in the absence of COVID-19 infection.

UC San Diego Health joins national research for maternal-fetal care

The University of California San Diego School of Medicine and UC San Diego Health are now part of the NICHD Maternal-Fetal Care Network, expanding access to research on pregnancy and newborn health. Clinical trials will focus on maternal mortality, prematurity birth rates, and infant mortality rates.

High-risk pregnancy specialists present research on AI models that could predict pregnancy complications

Researchers from The Mount Sinai Hospital have developed an AI-assisted tool to diagnose severe congenital heart defects from fetal scans with high sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, a machine learning model can predict placenta accreta spectrum based on preconception data, identifying novel predictors like anemia.

Novel AI model accurately detects placenta accreta in pregnancy before delivery, new research shows

A novel AI model has been developed to accurately detect placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) in pregnancy, a life-threatening condition often undetected by current screening methods. The model was retrospectively reviewed on 2D obstetric ultrasound images from 113 patients at high risk for PAS and found to be accurate in detecting all cases.

Scientists find hidden diversity inside common brain parasite

A study by UC Riverside scientists reveals that the cysts of Toxoplasma gondii contain multiple distinct subtypes of parasites, each with different biological roles. This discovery offers new insights into how the parasite causes disease and why it has been difficult to treat.

Most common methods of inducing labour similarly effective

A new review of over 100 clinical trials found that 13 common labor induction methods are similarly effective, with low-dose vaginal misoprostol being the most commonly used and safest. However, some methods showed better success rates for specific outcomes, such as oxytocin with amniotomy for achieving vaginal birth within 24 hours.

Stroke warning signs often overlooked in pregnancy

A quarter of pregnant patients suffering stroke symptoms were misdiagnosed due to overlooked warning signs, according to a new study. The researchers highlight the need for better clinician education and decision-support tools to improve maternal health outcomes.

Multiple maternal chronic conditions and risk of severe neonatal morbidity and mortality

Researchers found that an increasing number of preexisting maternal chronic conditions increases the risk of severe neonatal morbidity and mortality. Women with multiple chronic conditions may benefit from preconception counseling, earlier identification of complications, and enhanced newborn supports to optimize outcomes.

Cells that are not our own may unlock secrets about our health

Researchers are studying microchimeric cells that can play complex roles in a person's body, including healing wounds and regulating the immune system. However, more research is needed to understand their role in health outcomes, particularly pregnancy complications and autoimmune diseases.

Researchers link Alzheimer’s disease protein to development of preeclampsia

Researchers have discovered that amyloid-β deposits in preeclamptic placentas can disrupt placenta formation, leading to the development of high blood pressure and organ damage. The study found that these deposits impair the ability of placental cells to undergo syncytialization, a critical step in placenta formation.

Maternity baby deaths much higher in northern England than in the South

A new study published in the Journal of Public Health found that maternity services in Northern England consistently report higher-than-average rates of perinatal mortality, including stillbirths and neonatal deaths. The study identified ten organizations with higher-than-average deaths and fifteen with lower-than-average deaths, highl...

Unplanned cesarean deliveries linked to higher risk of acute psychological stress after childbirth

Patients who undergo unscheduled cesarean deliveries are at substantially increased risk for acute psychological stress during childbirth. Results show that over 1 in 4 patients experienced clinically significant acute stress shortly after birth.

Higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of pregnancy complications, study concludes

A new study published in BMC Medicine found that higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of preterm delivery, smaller babies, and gestational diabetes. The research used Mendelian randomization to assess the link between maternal blood pressure and 24 adverse pregnancy outcomes, revealing clear causal effects.

UC San Diego Health earns highest ranking for obstetric, infant care

UC San Diego Health has been recognized as a Best Hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News & World Report for the fourth year in a row. The hospital provides world-class care for parents and newborns, with a focus on compassion, expertise, and dedication.

How maternal distress affects neurological development in children: New study sheds light

A new study found that maternal psychological distress experienced at 1 year postpartum has a stronger association with neurodevelopmental delay in toddlers compared to prenatal distress. The researchers also discovered that experiencing distress during both pregnancy and postpartum periods further amplifies the risk of delays.

Survey: Nearly all Americans not aware midwives provide care beyond pregnancy, birth

A survey by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center reveals that nearly all Americans are unaware of the comprehensive women's health services provided by certified nurse-midwives. Only 20% know about annual gynecology exams, while 93% are aware of pregnancy and birth support.

Planned birth at term reduces pre-eclampsia in those at high risk

A new trial by King's College London found that planned birth at term can reduce the incidence of pre-eclampsia in women at high risk by 30%, compared to usual care. The intervention also did not increase emergency Caesarean or neonatal unit admission.

Research spotlight: How long-acting injectable treatment could transform care for postpartum women with HIV

A new study explores the potential of long-acting injectable treatments for HIV-positive breastfeeding women, finding that they can prevent up to 160 infant infections per year. The research suggests that these formulations could be cost-effective and widely available globally to reach those who need them most.

Purdue innovation to be evaluated in international study for earlier identification of preeclampsia risk

Researchers at Purdue University are testing a computer-vision method to analyze smartphone photos of pregnant women's eyes to predict preeclampsia risk. The two-year study aims to reduce maternal mortality in Africa and could potentially save thousands of lives.

Mount Sinai obstetricians first in New York City to use FDA-approved AI tool that enhances fetal screenings for congenital heart defects

The Mount Sinai Hospital is now using an FDA-approved AI tool that enhances fetal ultrasound screenings for congenital heart defects. The AI tool improved detection rates of suspicious findings to over 97%, while also reducing reading time and increasing confidence scores.

New evidence questions the benefit of calcium supplements in pregnancy for preventing pre-eclampsia

A Cochrane review found no significant effect of calcium supplementation on pre-eclampsia, contradicting long-held assumptions. The review excluded small and unreliable studies that previously suggested benefits of calcium supplementation.

Patients who discontinued GLP-1s had more weight gain, complications during pregnancy

A study found that pregnant women who discontinued GLP-1 medications before or early in their pregnancy experienced higher risks of weight gain, diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and preterm delivery. Those who stopped taking the medications gained an average of 7.2 pounds more weight during pregnancy.

New clues to why some women experience recurrent miscarriage

A recent study found distinct changes in NAD-related metabolites in women with recurrent miscarriage, suggesting a deeper metabolic imbalance. The findings may lead to the identification of potential biomarkers for risk assessment and new avenues for treatment.

Solving a 70-year-old medical mystery surrounding a vasodialator may yield a novel way to treat brain cancer

A team at the University of Pennsylvania has solved the mechanism of action of hydralazine, revealing its potential to halt the growth of brain cancer cells. By blocking an oxygen-sensing enzyme, hydralazine can reduce intracellular calcium levels, causing blood vessels to relax and tumor cells to enter a dormant state.

NYU-led research team develops actionable tool to assess risk for premature births

Researchers developed a novel tool, the Preterm Birth Actionable Risk Index (PTB-ARIx), to assess risk for premature births. The index identifies 18 specific risk factors during pregnancy that can be treated with evidence-based interventions.

AMP 2025 press materials available

Researchers are presenting groundbreaking findings at the Association for Molecular Pathology's annual meeting, including a novel technique to study ancient DNA and rapid detection of serious fungal pathogens. The Association for Molecular Pathology is providing press materials and resources for media coverage.

Finnish study reveals association between severe nausea during pregnancy and depression

A recent Finnish study found an association between severe nausea during pregnancy and depression, both before and after childbirth. Women who experienced severe nausea were more likely to develop depression and receive earlier diagnoses.

New genetic tool reveals chromosome changes linked to pregnancy loss

Researchers have discovered that optical genome mapping can reveal hidden causes of pregnancy loss, including chromosomal changes in genes known to be linked to recurrent pregnancy loss. The study found structural changes in the genome that were missed by traditional genetic sequencing methods.

A husband’s self-esteem may protect against preterm births, study finds

A new study from University of California Merced found that married fathers' optimism and confidence can lower maternal inflammation during pregnancy, leading to longer gestation periods. Higher paternal resilience also predicted healthier fetal development.

Ancient viral DNA shapes modern human placentas

Researchers have discovered how ancient viral DNA influences placenta development and pre-eclampsia, a life-threatening pregnancy disorder. The study identified a gene, EPS8L1, that is overexpressed in placentas from women with pre-eclampsia, providing potential biomarker for early detection.

Stillbirths in the U.S. higher than previously reported, often occur with no clinical risk factors

A new Harvard study found that US stillbirth rates are higher than previously reported, with many cases having no identified clinical risk factor. The study highlights the need for improved stillbirth risk prediction and prevention efforts.

Stillbirths in the United States

The study found that stillbirth rates are higher in low-income communities compared to more affluent areas, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address social determinants of health

New survey shows many are unaware of advancements in obstetrics care

A new survey conducted by Orlando Health found that less than half of Americans are aware of the technology and testing available to decrease risks for a healthy baby after 35 years old. Advanced prenatal testing and care can help older mothers have safe and healthy pregnancies, dispelling common misconceptions about age and pregnancy.

Study highlights risks of Caesarean births to future pregnancies

Researchers found that women who had Caesareans during advanced labor are eight times more likely to develop scars near or within the cervix, increasing the risk of premature births. The study also discovered that scars lower down the womb heal less well than those higher up.

‘Good’ gut bacteria boosts placenta for healthier pregnancy

Research reveals that Bifidobacterium breve in pregnant mothers regulates the placenta's hormone production, reducing complications and improving fetal growth. The study opens up a new approach to assessing pregnancy health through gut microbiome analysis.

UCSF assistant professor to receive the 2025 Dr. Nanette K. Wenger Research Goes Red® Award

Dr. Megan McLaughlin's research highlighted critical gaps in postpartum care for individuals with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, a major risk factor for future cardiovascular disease. Her study confirms missed opportunities to improve long-term heart health in a high-risk population.

Unplanned, premature, out-of-hospital births pose challenges for emergency team

In a first-of-its-kind study, researchers found that unplanned, premature births outside hospitals in Austria posed significant challenges for emergency teams. The study identified key findings on how to improve outcomes for mothers and newborns, including the importance of standardised protocols, training, and equipment availability.

A mother’s death during or after pregnancy may increase risk of infant’s death or hospitalization

A new study found that infant mortality rates in Massachusetts were significantly higher among babies whose mother experienced a pregnancy-associated death, with rates 14-22 times higher than when the mother survived. Nonpremature infants who survived after their mother’s pregnancy-associated death were also more likely to be hospitali...

Smoking decline leads to fewer newborns with gastroschisis, research finds

A significant association was found between maternal smoking prior to conception and gastroschisis in infants. The incidence of gastroschisis decreased linearly from 2.4 per 10,000 births in 2017 to 1.6 per 10,000 births in 2023 as maternal smoking rates declined from 9.4% to 4.1%.

Maternal exposure to adverse childhood experiences are associated with an increased risk of preterm birth

Research found that mothers with two or more adverse childhood experiences had a 12.6% preterm birth rate, double that of those with zero to one experiences. Adverse childhood experiences include abuse, neglect, and household instability, which can have lasting impacts on health and well-being.