Articles tagged with Prenatal Care
A recent study analyzing data from 77,701 women found that those who experienced a history of miscarriage or stillbirth had a higher risk of coronary heart disease later in adulthood. Women with two or more miscarriages were found to have an odds ratio of 1.18 for coronary heart disease compared to those with no miscarriages.
High-volume neonatal centers have been shown to significantly improve premature newborn survival rates, with a 30% increase for overall premature births and a 50% increase for very premature babies born after less than 27 weeks of pregnancy. This study suggests that centralized care in these units leads to better outcomes.
Leading medical authorities call for global mental health objectives, a UN High Level Meeting on Mental Health, and efforts to end stigma and human rights violations. The experts say action is urgently needed, particularly in Africa, where mental health disorders account for a huge burden of disease and disability.
Boston Medical Center (BMC) has received a three-year, $2.125 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for the CHAMPS program. The grant aims to improve maternal/infant care in Mississippi, New Orleans, and Southern Texas, with a goal of increasing breastfeeding rates among African American women.
A seven-year study of pregnant women taking antipsychotics found that 43% of babies needed special care after birth, with increased rates of premature birth, respiratory distress and withdrawal symptoms. The study highlights the need for clearer health guidelines on using antipsychotic medication during pregnancy.
A partnership between psychologists and physicians can produce a comprehensive, integrated personal care plan that includes attention to mental and medical disorders. The collaboration can help improve diagnosis, address substance abuse issues, and incorporate health behavior change, leading to better primary health care outcomes.
A Baylor University study found that 40% of low-income pregnant women discharged after a false labor diagnosis did not want to leave the hospital. The main reasons were pain and distance from their homes. Receiving written instructions about comfort measures at home improved their satisfaction with care. Comfort is a major aspect of sa...
Researchers at UC San Diego have found that the health risks to pregnant women with a history of Kawasaki disease (KD) are low with proper management and care. The study, published in British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, also notes that the long-term risk for adults with KD is not known.
A Saint Louis University pediatric researcher is conducting a study to determine the best time to discuss obtaining parental consent for clinical research involving treatment of newborns in the delivery room. The goal is to develop a method that satisfies ethical requirements while making it easier for parents to understand the researc...
A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that women with pregnancy complications were more likely to see a doctor post-delivery, but overall visit rates were low. Women with complicated pregnancies and depression or preeclampsia were also more likely to attend primary care visits.
Researchers aim to understand the causes of pregnancy complications in assisted reproductive technologies, as well as how hospital environments impact childbirth. The studies will investigate genetic and epigenetic factors and evaluate obstetrical resources to identify optimal levels of care.
Rates of unnecessary cesarean section and non-indicated induction of labor rose more sharply at rural hospitals than urban hospitals, according to a study published in Medical Care. The differences in trends may have important implications for maternal and infant health and public health policy.
Maternal deaths from haemorrhage have decreased, but still account for the majority of maternal mortality in France. The French National Expert Committee on Maternal Mortality has made recommendations to improve care and reduce avoidable deaths.
A study of over 30,000 women in Ireland found that private patients were more likely to have a C-section or surgical delivery, with rates twice as high for planned C-sections. The disparities remained after adjusting for social and medical factors.
A groundbreaking global study on preterm birth and disability has found baby boys are at a higher risk of death and disability due to preterm birth than baby girls. The study reveals that boys are 14% more likely to be born preterm than girls, with disabilities ranging from learning problems and blindness to deafness and motor problems.
A University of Michigan Health System study found that prenatal group visits for expectant Japanese women who discussed childbirth and baby care topics with peers felt less anxious and better prepared. The groups allowed women to connect on a personal level, share experiences, and take control of their pregnancy.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychological and health promotion interventions by non-mental health specialists improved symptoms in women during the perinatal period. The study, conducted in middle-income countries, suggests promise for psychosocial interventions in low- and middle-income settings.
New research published in The Lancet finds that caseload midwifery is just as safe as standard maternity care, with similar outcomes for women of any risk. Women who received caseload midwifery care had lower costs and improved breastfeeding rates.
International experts agree on priority areas for preconception care, including cost-effective integration into health programs, increasing healthcare provision through community workers, and reducing tobacco smoke exposure. The goal is to improve pregnancy outcomes by preparing women for optimal health before conception.
A study of 64 pregnant women in NYC found that common hearsay and media play a significant role in shaping their expectations about pregnancy. Women often referenced media sources when discussing their experiences, despite minimizing the influence of cultural mythologies in daily conversations.
Research found that pregnant women rely on common hearsay and entertainment media to shape their expectations about pregnancy. Women often cited ethnic-religious traditions and personal experiences in shaping their understanding of pregnancy mythologies.
Malpractice claims in primary care mainly stem from missed diagnoses of cancer, heart attack, and meningitis, with a substantial proportion of deaths attributed to these errors. Drug errors also account for a significant share of claims, although rates vary across countries.
A new UCLA-led study found that primary care physicians rarely discuss the risks and benefits of dietary supplements with their patients. The study analyzed audio recordings from over 1,400 office visits and discovered that only six out of 738 supplements were discussed in detail regarding all five major topics.
Some of the world's poorest countries have cut maternal and young child mortality rates by half or more, according to a new report from Countdown to 2015. Remarkable progress has been achieved in expanding programs to prevent HIV transmission and vaccinate children against life-threatening illnesses.
A Dutch medical protocol used to curb suffering in sick newborns reveals that euthanasia is not an abuse but a humane option for parents. The Groningen Protocol, introduced in 2005, stipulates strict criteria for euthanasia, and its review found that only two cases of infant euthanasia were reported between 2010.
A virtual patient advocate named Gabby delivers preconception care to African-American women through interactive conversations online. The pilot study found that 83% of identified risks were addressed or resolved by the users, resulting in improved pregnancy outcomes.
A reanalysis of the WHOACT data found an increased risk of fetal death for women with reduced antenatal visits, particularly between 32 and 36 weeks. The study suggests that routine antenatal visits may detect asymptomatic conditions earlier, allowing timely intervention.
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 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.
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.
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.