Articles tagged with Prenatal Care
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A new study published in Transfusion journal reveals sex-based disparities in the transfusion of whole blood to traumatically injured patients. Women, particularly younger females and those of childbearing potential, are less likely to receive whole blood transfusions compared to men. This disparity is despite whole blood being associa...
Eight hospitals, including Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, receive funding to refine discharge processes for mothers and babies with neonatal abstinence syndrome. The program aims to provide continuity of care through prenatally-based education and post-discharge support.
The USPSTF updates its recommendation on primary care interventions to support breastfeeding, citing established associations between breastfeeding and child health benefits. As of 2021, 59.8% of infants at 6 months are breastfed, while 27.2% are exclusively breastfed.
Researchers used data from 9,000 pregnancies to discover and validate RNA signatures that distinguish between severe and mild hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The study validates Mirvie's simple blood test to predict preeclampsia early, at 17.5-22 weeks gestational age.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that exposure to phthalates during pregnancy can affect newborns' metabolisms and brain development. The study, led by researchers at Emory University, discovered that these chemicals can cross the placenta and impact baby's biology before birth.
A recent study from Michigan Medicine found that 85% of postpartum-initiated lactation in ICUs aligns with national averages. Limited documentation and delays during mechanical ventilation are identified as barriers to lactation. The research team is developing an algorithm and guideline to support patients' lactation goals.
Nurses in states with abortion bans face communication gaps and moral distress when providing care to pregnant patients. They resort to 'work-arounds' like reading the room for allies or using online resources to find legal reproductive health care, highlighting the need for better guidance and support.
A new study suggests that menthol in electronic cigarettes may pose risks to a developing baby, inhibiting cell growth and increasing cell death. The researchers recommend discouraging the use of mentholated e-cigarettes during pregnancy until more research is conducted.
A new study shows that AI-assisted 20-week pregnancy scans are accurate and reliable, taking only over 40% less time than standard scans. This allows sonographers to focus on other aspects of the scan, such as communicating with parents.
The rate of maternal mortality related to cardiovascular causes has more than doubled between 1999 and 2022 in the US. Researchers attribute the increase to factors such as socioeconomic disadvantages, limited access to healthcare, and higher prevalence of risk factors.
Researchers at West Virginia University found that babies born to teen mothers weigh less and are smaller for their gestational age. The study highlights the role of social, geographical, and educational factors in teen pregnancy prevention.
A new study by Nemours Children's Health reveals that prenatal diagnosis of OI does not accurately predict mortality, and many babies can survive with medical interventions. The study found that 16 out of 18 infants with lethal OI diagnoses survived and achieved significant mobility milestones.
Differences in coinsurance rates associated with racial and ethnic disparities in out-of-pocket spending for maternity care. Changes to health plan benefit design could improve equity in maternal healthcare access and outcomes.
A new study found that Black, Hispanic, and Asian people with private insurance pay significantly more out-of-pocket for maternity care than white people. The study analyzed data from over 87,000 pregnancies and deliveries, revealing disparities in coinsurance rates and resulting costs.
Regular psychological health screening during pregnancy and postpartum may improve maternal cardiovascular health outcomes. Integrating comprehensive mental health support into perinatal care is essential to reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term cardiovascular risks.
A new study from the University at Buffalo measures neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions and satellite-based air pollution data, finding that newborns exposed in the last month of pregnancy to higher levels of NO2 have a 30-35% higher risk of NICU admission and an 11-22% increased risk associated with PM2.5.
A new survey found that many Americans believe common symptoms like fatigue and nausea are normal during and after pregnancy, while ignoring signs of potential heart problems. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is calling for better awareness and care for pregnant women with pre-existing health issues.
A new study led by Penn State researchers found that low vitamin D levels during the first trimester of pregnancy are associated with higher rates of preterm birth and decreased fetal length. Pregnant women with low vitamin D concentrations were four times more likely to experience a preterm birth compared to those with sufficient levels.
A new study suggests that AI can significantly improve a clinician's ability to detect cases suspicious for congenital heart defects, regardless of their experience or training. The AI system also increased confidence levels and reduced diagnosis time among clinicians.
Researchers developed a breakthrough technology using Mirvie's RNA platform to identify unique molecular signals in unborn babies. This innovation enables prediction of severe fetal growth restriction, a leading cause of stillbirth.
Research suggests that labor and delivery units with adequate nurse staffing have lower cesarean birth rates and higher vaginal birth rates. Hospitals aligned with national standards for nurse staffing saw a 11% decrease in C-sections, indicating improved maternal outcomes.
A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health found that prenatal multiple micronutrient supplements significantly reduced the risk of small vulnerable newborn types, including preterm birth, low birthweight, and small-for-gestational-age birth. These findings suggest that switching from iron and folic acid supplements to MMS as...
A nationwide Swedish study found that active management and induction of labor in late- and postterm pregnancies significantly reduced the risk of stillbirth and newborn death before 28 days. The study, published in PLOS Medicine, showed a near halving of this risk, suggesting improved maternal and perinatal outcomes.
The MedStar Health D.C. Safe Babies Safe Moms program has been found to have better pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum outcomes for patients cared for by the program compared to those receiving prenatal care elsewhere. Additionally, the study shows a significant reduction in low birthweight babies and preterm births among Black patients
The BiliSG app uses machine learning to analyze skin color and predict bilirubin levels in newborns, offering a convenient alternative to traditional testing methods. With 100% sensitivity, the app has shown promising results in monitoring neonatal jaundice and reducing the risk of brain damage.
Researchers found associations between gender-based racial microaggressions and higher blood pressure postpartum, particularly in the later period. Microaggressions experienced during pregnancy and delivery may lead to increased systolic blood pressure.
Researchers in Kenya, Norway, and Denmark are collaborating on a project to develop and test an improved dietary supplement for pregnant women. The goal is to reduce incidences of low birth weight, improve maternal and child health, and enhance growth and cognitive development in children. The new supplement, MMS+, will include additio...
A single iron infusion in the third trimester significantly reduces anaemia in pregnant women, with a lower prevalence at delivery compared to iron tablets. The treatment also boosts iron stores postpartum, offering a potential game-changer for maternal care and birth outcomes worldwide.
A University of Minnesota Medical School study found that implementing point-of-care ultrasounds in the first trimester enhances care for pregnant patients and reduces emergency visits. This integrated approach allows comprehensive care during a single visit, improving diagnosis and patient outcomes.
A new tool developed by Penn State researchers uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to analyze placenta images, detecting abnormalities and risks such as neonatal sepsis. The PlacentaCLIP+ model has the potential to transform neonatal and maternal care in low- and high-resource settings.
A new AI tool called PlacentaVision can rapidly evaluate placentas at birth to detect abnormalities associated with infection and neonatal sepsis. This could lead to improved health outcomes for both mothers and babies, particularly in areas with limited medical resources.
Reproductive justice leaders discuss the need for intersectionality, economic and public health impacts, youth leadership, and state-based solutions to protect reproductive rights. The discussion aims to harness young people's energy and foster intergenerational collaboration.
UCSF Medical Center has received the highest possible rating for maternity care, reflecting its commitment to clinical excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. The hospital's maternal care teams include a broad array of expertise, including nurse practitioners, midwives, and obstetrician anesthesiologists.
UC San Diego Health has been recognized as a High Performing Hospital for maternity care by U.S. News & World Report for the third consecutive year, providing highly reliable maternity care to expectant parents and newborns. The hospital also excels in breastfeeding support, with nearly 90% of babies fed exclusively breast milk.
A study published in Environmental Epigenetics found that pregnant women with preeclampsia had distinct epigenetic modifications, potentially serving as a biomarker. The researchers hope to develop a cheek swab test to detect these risks earlier, allowing for preventative medicine treatments.
The University of Arizona researchers aim to gain a better understanding of factors contributing to the health and quality of life of people living with spina bifida. The project will collect data on patients of all ages, providing insights into gaps in care and unmet needs for individuals with spina bifida across the lifespan.
A new study published in JAMA found that women who experience severe maternal morbidity during their first pregnancy are less likely to have more children. The research, which studied over a million women in Sweden, revealed that such events can have a lasting impact on fertility.
A new approach to first trimester obstetrical care combining point-of-care ultrasound and immediate multidisciplinary care has reduced emergency visits by 81%. This integration allows for timely diagnosis of abnormal pregnancies, improved education and support for all patients, including those experiencing miscarriage.
A cohort study found that a prenatal diet aligned with US Dietary Guidelines was linked to slower infant growth rates and lower obesity risk. The study suggests that improving prenatal nutrition may also benefit children's growth trajectory in the long term.
A new North American population-based study found preterm birth associated with higher mortality risks throughout life, especially during infancy and early childhood. Researchers identified a range of causes contributing to the increased mortality risk after preterm birth.
The large cohort study identified common pregnancy complications, such as premature rupture of membranes and gestational diabetes mellitus, affecting 18.29% and 16.74% of participants, respectively. High-risk groups were also identified, including women with assisted reproductive technology and those aged 35 and older.
A recent study by researchers at Kumamoto University found a potential link between exposure to certain everyday chemicals during pregnancy and the development of asthma in children. The study analyzed data from over 3,500 mother-child pairs and measured 24 types of phenols in urine samples collected from pregnant women.
A new study found that pregnant people in Massachusetts who made multiple unscheduled hospital visits during pregnancy were more likely to experience severe maternal morbidity. The study revealed that nearly half of these patients visited multiple hospitals, leading to inconsistent treatment and poor maternal outcomes.
A study of 831 pregnant women found that only 36% adhere to folic acid supplementation recommendations, with low folate and vitamin B12 status detected in nearly half. Deficiencies can cause miscarriage, malformations, and other health problems.
Singer Amy Grant's personal testimonial highlights the urgent need for support to save women's lives by funding research into better diagnosing, treating, and preventing cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association aims to address awareness gaps and bridge clinical care gaps in women's heart health.
Researchers found that vaccinating earlier in pregnancy, closer to 32 weeks, could provide better protection against RSV for newborns. Maternal vaccination resulted in significantly higher and longer-lasting maternal and cord RSV antibody levels.
A cross-sectional study found that barriers to divorce were associated with higher pregnancy-associated homicide rates and better access to reproductive health care was linked to lower rates. The study highlights the importance of considering state legislation when addressing pregnancy-related violence.
A new study from ICES and the University of Toronto found that people with a history of concussion face a 25% higher risk of severe mental health issues after childbirth. Early screening and trauma-informed care could help protect new parents’ mental health.
Research reveals that antenatal corticosteroids can lead to smaller volumes of key brain areas in preterm infants, affecting emotion processing and motor control. The study suggests a delicate balance between benefits for respiratory health and potential risks to neurological development.
Using Clinical Design Support Systems (CDSS) can help make maternity services safer for pregnant women, with a meta-analysis of 35 studies showing a 1.69 times higher odds of improved outcomes. The findings support the use of AI and related software tools to improve pregnancy care.
New research from Ohio State University found a 7% increase in US infant mortality rates in the months following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health decision. The study also revealed a 10% increase in infant deaths among babies born with chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.
Miscarriage affects 15-20% of pregnancies, causing devastating effects. Outpatient early pregnancy assessment clinics can provide compassionate and tailored care, but services are lagging.
A nationwide effort to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns has been launched with a $1.9 million Department of Health and Human Services grant. The grant will fund the distribution of an NEC prevention bundle, NEC-Zero, to help neonatal intensive care units recognize and prevent NEC.
A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases reveals that Asian and Black individuals are less likely to be tested for hepatitis C, while American Indian/Alaska Native women are more likely to receive treatment. The findings highlight the need to prioritize equity in healthcare approaches to ensure timely diagnosis and effective t...
A new study analyzing over five million births found a 10.6% increase in preterm births between 2011 and 2022, with racial and socioeconomic disparities persisting. Factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and mental health conditions became more common, while protective factors such as prenatal care and WIC participation declined.
A study found that patients with Medicaid are less likely to receive prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects due to lower rates of 20-week ultrasounds. The lead author believes increasing 20-week ultrasound utilization can mitigate insurance-related disparities and improve outcomes for children with CHD.
A recent Cochrane review confirms that giving women at risk of premature birth a simple magnesium sulphate infusion can prevent their babies from developing cerebral palsy. The drug costs approximately £5 (~$6.50) per dose and has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2015.
A nationwide cohort study revealed a higher risk of placental problems, premature births, and severe bleeding in subsequent deliveries following uterine artery embolization. Babies born to mothers who underwent UAE also had a higher chance of major birth defects, particularly heart problems.
Researchers argue that placental pathology is underutilized clinically and deserves routine obstetric and neonatal care, as well as more research attention.
A new study found that neighborhoods with fewer opportunities are associated with a higher risk of preterm birth, particularly among Black and Hispanic infants. The study suggests that structural racism and discriminatory practices contribute to this racial gap in preterm birth outcomes.