Articles tagged with Prenatal Care
A study by Michigan State University researchers found that women in India are more likely to receive prenatal care when pregnant with boys. The research suggests that sex discrimination begins in the womb, leading to unequal access to healthcare for girls. This can have long-term effects on children's health and well-being.
A longitudinal cohort study of 1,310 women found that even three years after being declared free of cancer, women who had a false-positive result consistently reported greater negative psychosocial consequences compared to women with normal test findings. Researchers propose annual blood pressure screening instead of checking at every ...
A recent study by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health found that hospital cesarean delivery rates varied widely across US hospitals, with lower-risk patients experiencing even greater variation. The study's findings suggest potential quality issues and highlight the need for improved data on maternity care quality.
A new study found that infants of African ancestry are more likely to be born prematurely and have low birth weights, compared to those with European-only ancestry. The researchers attribute these disparities to differences in geographic location and access to prenatal care.
Researchers found racial and ethnic disparities in adverse obstetric outcomes, including postpartum hemorrhage, peripartum infection, and severe perineal laceration. The study also revealed differences in types of intrapartum care, with certain groups receiving more intensive or less invasive treatments.
Researchers found a reduction in elective deliveries prior to 39 weeks, from 29.9% to 25.4%, and a decrease in early-term cesareans. However, there was no significant change in neonatal or maternal morbidity, but a non-statistically significant increase in stillbirths after 37 weeks was observed.
A new study led by UCSF finds that trained nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants can provide clinically safe early abortion care. Outpatient abortion is very safe for all providers, regardless of qualifications.
Research suggests that military women are more likely to experience unintended pregnancy due to limited access to contraception and reproductive health services. The study emphasizes the need for improved healthcare education and emergency contraception to address this issue.
The US will need 52,000 additional primary care physicians by 2025 due to population growth and aging, with a projected 25% increase in the workforce. Researchers also examine the benefits of starting prostate cancer screening at age 40 versus 50 and argue that guidelines should be evidence-based to prioritize proven services.
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.
Maternal smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of wheeze and asthma in preschool children, with a dose-response pattern related to maternal cigarette consumption. Exposure to maternal smoking before birth and early life is associated with an increased likelihood of developing respiratory symptoms.
A recent Harvard study found that expanding Medicaid coverage to low-income adults leads to significant improvements in health and reduced mortality rates. The study analyzed data from three states with expanded Medicaid programs and found a 6.1% reduction in mortality among those covered, corresponding to 2,840 deaths prevented per year.
According to the Commonwealth Fund report, 20% of US women were uninsured in 2010, up from 15% in 2000. The Affordable Care Act has helped reduce the uninsured rate among women, with an estimated drop below 14% in states where more than one quarter of women lacked coverage in 2009/10.
A University of Alberta researcher analyzed data from over 6,400 new mothers to find that teens are more likely to experience physical abuse and postpartum depression. The study highlights the need for screening for depression and violence among pregnant women, particularly teens.
A joint supplement published by two leading journals calls for better integration between primary care and public health to meet today's health challenges. The effort aims to eliminate duplication and competition, and showcase successful examples of shared accountability in improving community and population health outcomes.
The May issue of Reproductive Health Matters explores the causes and impact of the gap between policy and practice in maternal health and maternal mortality in India and other countries. It highlights both the good and bad news characterizing this gap, including hopeful signs of progress.
Researchers developed a program to screen and treat pregnant women for mental health disorders, achieving high uptake and acceptability rates. The model demonstrates the feasibility of stepped care approaches for primary healthcare settings.
Research based on 367 men and 370 women found that those who are retired, unmarried, or depressed are most at risk of needing urgent hospital care. Men were twice as likely as women to require further urgent hospital care within 30 days of discharge.
A University of Adelaide study reveals that unnecessary induction increases risk of cesarean sections and newborn treatments. Women with uncomplicated pregnancies are advised to wait for spontaneous labor between 38-39 weeks for lowest risk of adverse complications.
A new study reveals that induction of labor without maternal or fetal indications increases the risk of cesarean section, neonatal complications, and postpartum issues. Women with unnecessary inductions are more likely to need epidural anesthesia and experience severe perineal tears.
A study found that obstetricians' approaches to managing periviable deliveries vary widely, with many prioritizing patient preference over evidence-based guidelines. The authors recommend improving communication of uncertainty and managing patient expectations to provide more patient-centered care.
A new study explores the fertility and parenthood concerns of young female cancer survivors, finding that they are often unaware of the impact of treatment on their future fertility. The researchers identified six themes from focus group discussions, highlighting the need for better information, continuity of care, and guidance to addr...
A Kaiser Permanente study found that the Early Start program reduces maternal and neonatal morbidity and stillbirths, resulting in an average net cost benefit of $5.9 million annually. The program's accessibility to patients and integration with prenatal care significantly contribute to its success.
Researchers found common causes of stillbirth to be obstetric complications and placental abnormalities, with previous pregnancy loss also linked to increased risk. The study's findings highlight the need for thorough investigation into cause of death and development of interventions to prevent stillbirths.
The NYU College of Nursing will expand its midwifery program to include primary care and health literacy components, aiming to address workforce demands for underserved women. The three-year grant seeks to increase the enrollment, retention, and graduation of diverse students in the program.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital have identified a new mechanism that may protect against organ injury and death from anemia. This discovery could lead to new treatments and approaches for patients with anemia.
More than half of countries are lowering maternal and child mortality rates faster than the global average, with progress particularly strong in sub-Saharan Africa. However, few countries are on track to meet international targets for reducing these deaths, highlighting the need for immediate action.
Researchers propose a data-driven approach to identify populations at risk of genocide by analyzing the health and prenatal care records of victims. The study found that malnutrition, poor health, and inadequate prenatal care were common among genocide victims in Bosnia and Rwanda.
A review article by BUSM professor Judith A. Linden outlines comprehensive protocols for evaluating and treating adult victims of sexual assault in emergency departments and primary care settings. The article highlights the importance of evidence collection, emotional support, and medical follow-up appointments to provide optimal care.
A new study finds that type 2 diabetes and obesity independently contribute to higher risks of pregnancy complications. Women with both conditions have poorer outcomes, including preterm birth, blood loss, and prolonged hospital stays.
A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that 30-40% of women in Sudan, Uganda, and Congo do not want more children, yet only 4-16% use modern contraception. This gap highlights the need for increased family planning services in conflict-affected regions.
A recent study suggests that romantic fiction continues to shape women's perceptions of idealized love and sex, potentially influencing negative attitudes towards condom use and non-consensual sex. The author argues that the genre can perpetuate unrealistic expectations and escapism, running counter to real-life health messages.
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 new study found that folic acid supplements given to mother rats significantly protect their offspring from developing colorectal cancer. The research suggests that folic acid may have different effects on cancer development in different organs, and more studies are needed.
A new study at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center reveals high rates of chronic hepatitis B infection among pregnant minority and immigrant women in NYC, with many not receiving standard care. The study highlights the importance of targeted screening and education for this vulnerable population.
Research published at University of Rochester Medical Center found that high induction and primary C-section rates in low-risk pregnant women have no impact on newborn health. The study's findings question the increasing trend of interventions at delivery in the US, suggesting that 'more is not always better'.
Stillbirths in low-income and middle-income countries are a major concern, with 98% of all stillbirths occurring in these regions. The Lancet report highlights the need for improved data collection and classification of programmatic causes of stillbirths.
The Boston Medical Center will receive a $245,000 grant to enhance its Centering Pregnancy program, which has been shown to decrease late preterm delivery by up to 40% and increase pregnancy knowledge and satisfaction with care. The grant aims to promote preventive care and address health disparities in Massachusetts.
A review of 19 studies on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in maternity care found diverse attitudes among healthcare professionals. While many have a positive view of CAM, there is a need for formal evidence-based education and guidance on its use.
The growing population of adult survivors of congenital heart disease requires a lifelong process of medical interactions, unique to each individual. Advances in various fields such as surgery, imaging, and transplantation offer strategies for managing this complex patient population.
Kinship caregivers often lack support services and resources, despite providing care to vulnerable children. The study found that kinship caregivers are more likely to experience lower socioeconomic status, yet receive fewer financial and training support compared to foster parents.
Research published in Developmental Psychobiology and Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience found that maternal care impacts stress response in adult offspring's brains. High-quality maternal milk and contact reduce vulnerability to stress, while low levels may lead to lower self-esteem.
A UCLA-led study finds that health care reform can improve coordination between assessing disease risk and providing appropriate tests and follow-up medical services. The law expanded coverage for an annual wellness visit, which includes assessing risk for disease and developing a personalized prevention plan.
A new study suggests buprenorphine is a better treatment option than methadone for opioid dependence in pregnant women, resulting in healthier babies. Babies born to mothers taking buprenorphine instead of methadone required less morphine and spent less time in the hospital.
The US saw a two-year decline in preterm birth rates, primarily among babies born just weeks early, while many states improved in at least one contributing factor. The overall national rate remains high compared to top-scoring countries.
The Mary Kirkland Center offers personalized care to lupus patients through a team of healthcare professionals. The center provides education and research opportunities, as well as programs addressing cardiovascular health and wellness, to improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Michelle A. Williams receives two major NIH grants totaling $5.6 million to study complications affecting pregnancy, including abruptio placentae and partner abuse's impact on preterm delivery. Funding will support genomic testing and statistical analysis at Swedish Medical Center and UMDNJ-RWJMS.
Very low birthweight and preterm infants are more likely to die without access to specialized NICU care. A regionalized system of NICUs has improved infant mortality rates since its inception in the 1970s, but progress has been hindered by a decline in Level III hospital births.
A joint project of UCSF and KEMRI has received a 5-year grant to expand its care and support for people affected by HIV/AIDS in Kenya. The grant will allow the project to serve at least 80% of HIV patients needing care within its service areas.
A work group led by a Kaiser Permanente researcher developed and adopted 17 national measures to assess HIV care quality, including screening, prevention, and antiretroviral therapy. These measures have been endorsed by several organizations and are being pilot-tested to improve patient outcomes.
The Affordable Care Act will stabilize and reverse growing health costs for women through subsidized insurance coverage and expanded Medicaid eligibility. Women are expected to benefit from the law's provisions on maternity care, newborn coverage, and protection against higher premiums and coverage denials based on gender.
Despite accelerated progress in reducing child mortality, maternal mortality remains high. Brazil and China are highlighted as countries on track to meet the targets set out in MDG4 and MDG5. The report emphasizes the need for increased investment in health systems, community-based interventions, and social determinants.
A study by Sue J. Goldie and colleagues finds that better family planning, safe abortion, and improved obstetrical care can reduce maternal mortality in India by 75% in under a decade. Integrated approaches can prevent more than 3 out of 4 maternal deaths.
Research findings suggest that participatory women's groups can reduce neonatal mortality by up to one-third and moderate maternal depression. The groups' impact was attributed to improved hygiene and care practices, as well as increased community mobilization and support for the poorest populations.
A study published in the Lancet found that women's community groups in India led to a dramatic improvement in neonatal survival rates, with a 45% reduction in mortality rates. The groups also showed significant reductions in maternal depression and improvements in hygiene practices among new mothers.
Researchers aim to improve contraceptive use and reduce unintended pregnancies among HIV-positive women in Kenya. The study, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, will evaluate an integrated model of HIV care and family planning services.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School found a significant decline in US birth weights over the past 15 years, with full-term births averaging 79 grams less than expected. This trend is concerning, as low birth weight has been linked to increased risk of death and chronic diseases in adulthood.
The US pediatric oral health report, published in Academic Pediatrics, emphasizes the need to improve outcomes and address disparities. The report presents key findings on the state of pediatric oral health in the US, including the prevalence of dental caries and access to care.
A study found that teen girls diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory disease who watched a short educational video were three times more likely to discuss their condition with partners and ensure partner treatment. Despite this, adherence to medication and follow-up remained poor, highlighting the need for in-depth counseling.
A study from the Sahlgrenska Academy found that teenage boys in Sweden are less likely to take responsibility for preventing the spread of chlamydia and other STIs. Researchers say that new methods are needed to reach boys with information on protection against infections.