Articles tagged with Prenatal Care
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A study published in The Lancet found that community health workers can significantly reduce maternal, fetal, and newborn deaths by improving access to care. Researchers recommend expanding the workforce and improving healthcare standards to reach more women.
A new study reveals that the COVID-19 lockdown in Nepal resulted in a 49.9% decrease in health facility births, leading to increased stillbirth rates by 50% and neonatal mortality by over 3-fold. The lockdown had a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for improved maternal and newborn healthcare duri...
Scientists at the University of Warwick have developed a new technique that can spot potential preterm births in asymptomatic high-risk women with up to 73% accuracy. The technology uses volatile organic compound analysis to characterise airborne chemicals and is designed to be cost-effective and non-invasive.
A study published in Lancet Global Health reveals a significant diagnostic error in almost 40% of maternal deaths in Maputo's central hospital in Mozambique. The results highlight the need to improve access to specific diagnostic tests and strengthen clinical skills among healthcare workers.
A new study identifies key steps toward establishing nurse- and midwife-led HIV services in eastern and southern Africa, including improved training, supportive supervision, and formal mentorship programs. The region has shown remarkable progress toward eliminating HIV, but challenges remain in providing effective antiretroviral therapy.
Researchers aim to develop wearable technologies capable of diagnosing conditions like preeclampsia and epilepsy using solid-state sensing and wearable devices. The goal is to improve healthcare in rural and remote areas with limited access to medical services.
A new study found significant disparities in reproductive health care access in Ohio after increasing abortion regulations. The researchers discovered that rural counties experienced a sharp decrease in abortions, while medication abortion care also decreased significantly.
A clinical trial is set to examine whether post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) using the existing HIV medication Kaletra can halt or slow the spread of COVID-19. Researchers will track participants exposed to confirmed cases, administering the medication for 14 days, the estimated incubation period for COVID-19.
The current NHS regulations for charging non-residents are poorly understood and applied by healthcare staff, leading to cases of patients being deterred from accessing care and eligible patients being incorrectly billed. Survey responses also highlight the need for independent review and training on the regulations.
The USPSTF advises against routine screening for bacterial vaginosis in pregnant individuals without symptoms or increased risk of preterm delivery. However, it suggests caution for those at higher risk, with current recommendations dating back to 2008.
A new study by Florida Atlantic University shows that kangaroo care improves infant brain development, particularly in full-term babies, through skin-to-skin touch and contact. The method also increases oxytocin levels in mothers and decreases stress reactivity.
A new study found that racial and ethnic minority women are more likely to experience gaps in insurance coverage during pregnancy, leading to increased risks of maternal morbidity and mortality. The study suggests that extending Medicaid coverage to one year after birth could reduce disparities in postpartum health.
A new study found that patients' Facebook posts exhibit a shift towards more formal language and health-related discussions before an emergency department visit, indicating increased anxiety and concern for their health. This research provides valuable insights into the potential use of social media as a signal of medical distress.
A new wireless, battery-charged monitoring system is being tested to provide clinical-grade care for premature babies and pregnant women in low-resource settings. The soft, flexible sensors offer advanced features such as crying and movement detection, allowing for early intervention and improved health outcomes.
Early-career family physicians with maternity care and buprenorphine prescribing skills are undertrained, posing risks for pregnant women with opioid use disorder. Family medicine residencies must prioritize training in treating substance use disorder during pregnancy to address rising maternal mortality rates.
A new study found pregnancies among women with disabilities are 42% more likely to be unintended, linked to societal views on sexuality and parenting. Women with independent living challenges, hearing loss, or cognitive disability showed higher proportions of unintended pregnancy.
A recent study found that a quarter of local maternity services in England lack midwifery units (MUs), and women face barriers when trying to access them. The research identified several factors contributing to low MU use, including a lack of information and misconceptions about their safety and cost.
The 'Birth Settings' report highlights medical disparities in childbirth, with Oregon emerging as a leader in integrated care and access to midwives. Midwife-led births are associated with lower complication rates and improved patient experiences, but US regulations limit access to care.
Elective egg freezing is a common method to increase pregnancy chances at a later age. Patients under 35 with normal ovarian reserve have the best chance of success, but future live births are not guaranteed. The treatment process takes 10-14 days and fees are not covered by Canadian government health insurance.
A recent study by Oregon State University researchers found that Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) in 2012 reduced infant mortality rates among Medicaid patients, particularly preterm births. The CCOs' integrated care model addressed social determinants of health, such as housing and transportation, to improve patient outcomes.
A new study finds that seven percent of Texas abortion patients attempted self-managed abortion due to lack of affordable clinic options, local closure, or friend/family recommendation. Most women who used misoprostol were successful, while those using home remedies sought clinic care after unsuccessful attempts.
A study led by Professor Halvor Sommerfelt found that kangaroo mother care increased the chance of survival among low-birth-weight infants by 30% in the first month and 25% in the first six months. This intervention is considered easy and inexpensive.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health finds that Medicaid expansion in Colorado improved access to postpartum care, particularly for mothers with pregnancy/childbirth complications. This narrowing of the 'postpartum coverage cliff' has significant implications for reducing maternal mortality.
A new study found that out-of-pocket health care spending for maternity care increased significantly between 2008 and 2015, with 98% of women paying some costs. The Affordable Care Act requires full coverage of preventive services but leaves room for plans to impose co-pays, deductibles, and cost-sharing.
A new system allows thousands of patients in rural Africa to provide anonymous feedback on their care using a basic USSD tool. The results showed promising outcomes, with users enthusiastic about empowering themselves to communicate their experiences.
The University of Illinois Chicago and the Illinois Department of Public Health will improve maternal outcomes with a five-year federal grant. A new two-generation clinic and research center will provide comprehensive care to postpartum women and their newborns.
The PROLONG trial found that weekly injections of 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate do not reduce recurrent preterm birth or neonatal morbidity. In contrast, a previous study showed a 34% reduction in recurrent preterm birth with this medication. The differing results may be attributed to differences in the populations studied.
A recent WHO-led study in four countries found that over one-third of women experience physical and verbal abuse during childbirth, with younger, less educated women at highest risk. The study highlights the need for respectful maternity care and informed policies to address these inequalities.
A European study found significant variations in vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) rates among six European countries, with Finland, Netherlands, and Sweden having high VBAC rates. In contrast, Ireland, Italy, and Germany have low VBAC rates due to a heterogeneous pro-against-VBAC culture.
A telemedicine program using remote blood pressure monitoring has shown promising results in engaging newly postpartum women in cardiovascular monitoring, with 88% of participants returning to the clinic for follow-up appointments. The program aims to bridge care from obstetricians to ongoing cardiovascular monitoring, empowering patie...
A Vermont study reveals a declining proportion of rural children receiving care in family medicine practices, shifting instead to pediatric clinics. The trend is attributed to national declines in prenatal care by family physicians and limited capacity for new patients.
A Dartmouth report finds nearly half of newborns in NICUs are normal birth weight, but many low-birth-weight babies lack access to higher-level care. This disparity highlights the need for more equitable distribution of neonatal intensive care resources.
A hospital-only approach to deliveries could significantly reduce travel time for pregnant women in low- and middle-income countries, with a potential increase of up to 45 minutes in average travel time. This shift would be feasible despite the challenges, as primary care facilities often fail to provide lifesaving care.
A new study reveals that women of color perceive their interactions with healthcare providers as misleading, with information being 'packaged' to limit maternity care choices. The research highlights the impact of implicit bias and racism on birth outcomes, providing a potential mechanism for how these associations occur.
A new care program featuring home visits and mobile phone links to caregivers improves treatment and follow-up for teens and young women with pelvic inflammatory disease. The study found a significant decline in new STIs among those receiving the innovative care program.
Infants born to mothers taking naltrexone developed no signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, whereas those exposed to buprenorphine showed higher rates of NOWS. Naltrexone was also associated with shorter hospital stays and improved breastfeeding outcomes.
A new study estimates that hospital harm in Ontario cost the healthcare system over $1 billion in 2015/16, with patients experiencing a significant increase in length of stay and subsequent health costs. The study found that the most common harm was medication-associated conditions, with costs ranging from $800 to $51,067.
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in tree nuts like walnuts and extra virgin olive oil was found to improve maternal health outcomes during pregnancy, including a reduced risk of gestational diabetes. Women who followed the diet gained an average of 2.75 pounds less than those receiving standard prenatal care.
Infants born to mothers exposed to high levels of air pollution are more likely to be admitted to a newborn intensive care unit (NICU), with risks increasing from 4% to 147%. The study suggests that limiting pregnant women's exposure to high levels of air pollutants may help reduce NICU admissions.
Marijuana use among pregnant women in Northern California increased significantly between 2009 and 2017, with daily use rising from 1.17% to 3.05%. The study analyzed data from nearly 277,000 pregnancies, suggesting a possible trend towards more recreational marijuana use during pregnancy.
Pregnancy outcomes for lupus patients have dramatically improved, with a decline in maternal and fetal mortality rates over the past two decades. The study found that more women with lupus are attempting pregnancy and delivering successfully, with minimal risk of complications.
Research examining US alcohol and pregnancy policies from 1972-2015 found varying effects on birth outcomes by race. For White women, most policies had adverse effects, while for Black women, four policies had beneficial effects. The study suggests future research should explore the reasons behind these disparities.
A Michigan Medicine study found that white women and those with higher education levels are more likely to seek fertility treatment than other groups. Nearly 12.5% of women reported experiencing infertility, but only 33% of those with lower education levels sought care.
A Rutgers-led study found that father-friendly cues in OBGYNS offices can boost men's involvement in prenatal care. Men who visited a waiting room with images of both men and babies reported higher expectations and confidence about parenting, leading to healthier behaviors and outcomes for women and infants.
A study found that assessing women's feelings towards their changing bodies during pregnancy can predict their emotional wellbeing and ability to bond with their unborn baby. The BUMPS questionnaire revealed positive associations between body satisfaction and lower depression, anxiety, and better relationships.
Researchers found that opioid-exposed babies react more strongly to pain and have higher skin conductance, suggesting they may need early intervention. The study suggests that these babies handle pain worse than their non-exposed counterparts, highlighting the need for better care.
A study found that 623,000 US parents with opioid use disorder live with children under 18, with few receiving treatment. Meanwhile, healthcare accounts for between 5-15% of premature death variation, with behavioral factors driving more mortality variation.
Research published in CMAJ found that women whose physician infrequently performs surgical abortions have almost twice the risk of severe complications. High-volume physicians are more likely to recognize and troubleshoot potential problems, resulting in lower complication rates.
A new study at the University of Utah Health found that drug-induced death is the most common cause of pregnancy-associated death in Utah. Postpartum women who have previously or currently struggle with substance abuse are at greater risk of overdosing.
A rare but potentially fatal infection of the genitals has been identified as a side effect of SGLT2 inhibitors, requiring immediate attention and surgical intervention. Awareness of this association can inform prescriber-patient discussions about appropriate diabetes therapy.
A major review of the world literature reveals FASD is 10-40 times higher in vulnerable populations, including children in care and Aboriginal populations. The estimated prevalence varies greatly across regions, emphasizing the need for early interventions and awareness training.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that women with a history of bariatric surgery are at higher risk of premature birth, congenital anomalies, and low birth weight. Health professionals should provide additional support and monitoring for these high-risk pregnancies.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) has approved $44.6 million to fund studies comparing the best ways to treat health conditions that impose high burdens on patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system. The newly approved awards focus on improving treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), with a total of four aw...
The Healthy Start program aims to address longstanding perinatal health disparities in Houston's most disadvantaged communities. The initiative will provide community-based services and health education to black women, their partners, and families to promote preconception care and behaviors that reduce risk.
A study published in Economics & Human Biology found that pregnant women who commute at least 50 miles to work are at a higher risk of having low-birth-weight babies. The longer the commute, the greater the risk. Long commutes also led to under-use of prenatal care, which could exacerbate birth outcomes.
A study published in JAMA reveals significant improvement in the survival rate of extremely preterm babies in Sweden, rising from 70% to 77%, while complications decreased, between 2014-2016 and 2004-2007.
A new study found that the Affordable Care Act improved healthcare affordability and access for women, especially in low- and middle-income groups. The study demonstrated a significant increase in preventive care screenings and influenza immunization among women after the ACA's implementation.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine studied 22 US state and federal prisons, tracking 1,396 pregnant women over 12 months. Most pregnancies resulted in live births with no maternal deaths, a significant improvement compared to general population statistics.
Women with undiagnosed gestational diabetes are at a significantly increased risk of stillbirth, according to new research. The study found that the risk of stillbirth was over four times higher in women who developed signs of gestational diabetes but were not diagnosed, highlighting the importance of proper screening and diagnosis.
A multidisciplinary team-based approach involving cardiac and maternal/fetal/newborn specialists saved the life of a pregnant woman with heart failure. The team successfully managed her care for seven weeks, delivering the baby prematurely but saving both mom and child.