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Most community health centers provide prenatal care, but one-third still lack services

A new national study reveals that about two-thirds of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) offer prenatal care, while one in three do not, highlighting missed opportunities to address inequities in maternal health access. The study underscores the critical role of FQHCs in caring for low-income and racially diverse pregnant popul...

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine

New study reveals how birth method and antibiotics may shape babies' gut bacteria

A systematic review found that babies born by caesarean section or exposed to antibiotics around the time of birth tend to have differences in their gut bacteria composition, with less diversity and beneficial bacterial groups less abundant. Exclusively breastfed infants appear to show a partial restoration of microbial balance.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalBMJ Paediatrics Open·TypeSystematic review
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Carnegie Mellon team awarded ARPA-H contract to transform care during labor and childbirth

A new wearable monitoring system called OMEGA aims to replace outdated fetal heart rate monitoring technology with a unified real-time assessment of fetal oxygen delivery and adaptive capacity. The system could potentially reduce C-section rates and improve maternal and fetal health outcomes, saving millions in healthcare costs.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University

Children's Hospital Colorado leads nation in treatment for cystic fibrosis before birth

Children's Hospital Colorado has pioneered a groundbreaking approach to treating cystic fibrosis before birth, resulting in reduced NICU stays and improved pancreatic function. The pioneering care model uses ETI therapy to improve lung health and offers seamless continuation of treatment after birth through breast milk.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Mount Sinai opens Carolyn Rowan Center for Women’s Health and Wellness, a new model of coordinated care across the lifespan

The Mount Sinai Health System has opened the Carolyn Rowan Center for Women’s Health and Wellness, which brings together multidisciplinary clinical expertise, structured care pathways, and leading-edge research to deliver personalized, comprehensive care for women. The Center offers guided multi-visit experiences and coordinated care o...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine

Early birth safer for mother and baby in high blood pressure pregnancies

A new Cochrane review finds planned early birth for pregnant women with high blood pressure cuts maternal complications by nearly half and reduces the risk of stillbirth. The practice is found to be safe across both high- and low-income settings, without increasing the likelihood of caesarean section.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review

One-fifth of pregnant people aren’t properly screened for syphilis

A study of 551,706 pregnancies in Ontario found that 8% were not screened for syphilis at all, while 79% were screened in the first trimester. The authors suggest that relying solely on traditional prenatal care models may not be sufficient to reach populations facing barriers to accessing care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study

Abortion bans lead to worse outcomes for miscarriages

A study by Oregon Health & Science University found that state-level abortion bans in the US are associated with a reduction in evidence-based medical care for miscarriage management. This has led to more women waiting longer for treatment and fewer choices, potentially putting their health and fertility at risk.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

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.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeObservational study

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.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology

Prepregnancy care and counseling

Primary care-based discussions on reproductive goals, immunizations, and risk-reducing interventions optimize pregnancy outcomes. Prepregnancy counseling reduces maternal morbidity and mortality, while also promoting healthy fetal development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

High prenatal exposure to PFAS may increase the risk of childhood asthma

A Swedish study found that high prenatal PFAS exposure is associated with a higher incidence of asthma in childhood. The research used a register-based cohort of children born between 2006 and 2013 to assess the relationship between maternal exposure and asthma outcomes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study

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.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine

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.

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeExperimental study

Simple antiseptic can reduce newborn infections

A Cochrane review found that chlorhexidine application to umbilical cord stumps likely reduces infections by 29% and may lower mortality rates, particularly in LMICs. Umbilical cord care is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healthy healing.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Even temporary lack of oxygen may impact brain development for preterm babies

Researchers found that mild hypoxia in preterm babies can compromise neural communication, impacting the hippocampus region responsible for memory and learning. Abnormal neuronal maturation and loss of synaptic function may lead to academic difficulties and behavioral concerns later in life.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJNeurosci

Fathers’ health crucial to improving pregnancy and child outcomes

A new study published in The Lancet reveals that fathers' health and well-being play a significant role in shaping pregnancy and child outcomes. The research emphasizes the importance of investing in the well-being of boys and young men to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes for future generations.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet

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.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study

Major step towards a first global system to track health before pregnancy

Researchers identified key health indicators for a new global system to monitor people's health before pregnancy. The study found that mental health, physical health, supportive relationships, and finances are prioritized by both healthcare professionals and the general public.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSurvey

Maternal acetaminophen use and child neurodevelopment

A study in Taiwan found a positive association between maternal prenatal acetaminophen use and increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. However, associations were not observed in sibling-matched analyses, suggesting unaddressed sources of bias.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

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.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·TypeData/statistical analysis

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego

How experiences in the womb affect alcohol drinking in adulthood

A study found that prenatal alcohol exposure changed aspects of the dopamine system in rhesus monkeys, influencing how quickly they drank alcohol in adulthood. The researchers also discovered individualized neuroadaptive responses to drinking, which may promote the transition to alcohol use disorder.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci

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.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalStroke
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

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...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis

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.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis

Rates of opioid use in pregnancy have more than doubled, study finds

A recent study has found that rates of opioid use during pregnancy have risen two-fold over the past decade, with significant increased risks of maternal and infant health complications. The study emphasizes the urgent need for accessible, wraparound health care for mothers and families affected by opioid addiction.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego

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.

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study

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.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

PFAS mixture disrupts normal placental development which is important for a healthy pregnancy

A recent study found that a PFAS mixture can interfere with placental development, impairing nutrient transfer and hormone production. The research used a 3D trophoblast model to simulate placental exposure, revealing disrupted invasiveness, apoptosis, and proliferation processes.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeCase study

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.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology

Routine first trimester ultrasounds lead to earlier detection of fetal anomalies

A new study found that hospitals with early ultrasound protocols detected 40% of major fetal anomalies before 16 weeks of pregnancy, compared to 28% in hospitals without such protocols. This suggests that systematic first trimester screening could improve the timeliness of anomaly detection across the population.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

More prenatal visits linked to right level of care for infants born with heart defects

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that more prenatal visits are associated with a lower likelihood of delivery at a cardiac surgical center for babies with mild congenital heart defects. This suggests that families can receive the right level of care closer to home, reducing stress and cost.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Merced·JournalBiopsychosocial Science and Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis

Punitive drug laws may deter prenatal care and hospital-based delivery

A new study found that explicit prenatal drug criminalization policies in the US are associated with reductions in prenatal care and facility-based deliveries. This is particularly concerning for high-risk pregnancies, as avoidance of healthcare services can have serious health consequences.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalSocial Science & Medicine
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

More omega-3s, please! Chicago parents need more EPA, DHA in their diets

A Northwestern University study found that Chicago parents have low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, with women consuming even lower amounts. This deficiency may have direct negative effects on children's health, including preterm birth risk.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNutrients

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.

SourceOrlando Health

Medicaid innovation models improve care for moms, but design matters

Researchers found that Medicaid accountable care organizations (ACOs) can improve some maternal health outcomes if designed thoughtfully. The study highlights the importance of value-based care delivery design within Medicaid programs to support low-income women before, during, and after pregnancy.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open

Prenatal and postnatal support apps might not work

A systematic review found little to no benefit from prenatal and postnatal support apps in reducing postnatal depression, anxiety, or improving infant bonding, breastfeeding, or parenting satisfaction. The study also investigated the effects of perinatal mobile apps on psychosocial and parenting outcomes for couples.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Mental Health
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

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.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeObservational study

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.

SourceEuropean Society for Emergency Medicine (EUSEM)·TypeData/statistical analysis

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...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeObservational study
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Centenary of the birth of IVF pioneer Sir Robert Edwards

The global impact of IVF continues to grow, with estimated 20 million IVF births worldwide, increasing the demographic importance of fertility needs. IVF has become a more effective route to parenthood for those previously unable to conceive.

SourceReproductive BioMedicine Online·JournalReproductive BioMedicine Online

Do fetal movements influence the level of attachment between mother and baby?

Research found higher fetal movement frequencies correlate with greater maternal attachment; paying attention to these signals may strengthen prenatal attachment and postnatal caregiving. Fetal movements contribute to emotional attachment formed during pregnancy.

SourceBIAL Foundation·JournalEarly Human Development·TypeExperimental study

Country of birth, race, ethnicity, and prenatal depression

A cross-sectional study found that prenatal depression diagnosis and moderate to severe depression symptoms differ by maternal nativity and racial/ethnic background. Non-U.S.-born mothers tend to have better neonatal outcomes, but this association may not hold true for prenatal mental health conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open

Nanodiamonds and hormones used in rare condition to promote lung growth before birth

Researchers are using nanodiamonds and VEGF to design treatments for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), a devastating disease affecting 1 in 3,000 newborns. The treatment aims to stimulate lung growth before birth and improve survival rates.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeExperimental study
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Ultrasound AI publishes landmark study demonstrating breakthrough in predicting delivery timing using AI and ultrasound images

A recent study published in The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine showcases Ultrasound AI's proprietary technology, which accurately predicts time to delivery using standard ultrasound images. This non-invasive tool has the potential to improve pregnancy outcomes and combat preterm birth.

SourceHiltzik Strategies·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine