Preterm delivery, long-term risk of high blood pressure in women
A Swedish study of over 2 million women found preterm delivery significantly increases future risks of chronic high blood pressure. The association remains strong even 40 years later.
Birth Rates
Articles tagged with Birth Rates
Future prosperity in China is unlikely to be hindered by population aging
A new study published in PNAS suggests that China's declining birth rate and aging population may not negatively impact future prosperity. The researchers found that higher education levels among women can lead to increased labor force participation, potentially offsetting the negative effects of population aging.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2021
COVID-19 slows birth rate in US, Europe
A new study found that COVID-19 led to a significant decline in births across high-income countries, with the strongest declines observed in southern Europe, while northern Europe showed little impact. The researchers attribute this variation to differences in economic disruption and social support policies.
Association between HPV infection during pregnancy, risk of preterm birth
Researchers found a link between HPV genotype 16/18 infection in the first and third trimesters and an increased risk of preterm birth. The study highlights the importance of prenatal screening for HPV to inform pregnancy management.
COVID-19 not linked to increased preterm births or stillbirths
A large study of over 2.4 million births in Ontario found no increases in preterm births or stillbirths during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers analyzed data from an 18-year period, including trends before and during the pandemic, to provide reassurance for pregnant women.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 3, 2021
Patients paying for unproven IVF add-on treatments
A survey of 1,590 Australian IVF patients found that 82% have used fertility add-ons despite limited evidence supporting their effectiveness. The most commonly used add-ons were acupuncture and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy, with significant costs associated with these treatments.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 1, 2021
Changes in pregnancy, birth rates during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in pregnancy and birth rates, with increased cesarean deliveries and emergency C-sections reported during lockdowns. Researchers analyzed electronic medical records to estimate the impact of lockdown measures on reproductive health.
Changes in birth rates after elimination of cost sharing for contraception
Researchers found that eliminating cost sharing for contraception resulted in higher birth rates among low-income and middle-income women, but not among high-income women. The study suggests that increased access to affordable contraception may contribute to a decline in unintended pregnancies.
Great expectations: Patients overestimate success in IVF
A prospective study of 69 couples found that female partners overestimated their IVF live birth rates by 34%, while male partners expected a 54% higher rate. The study highlights the need for clinics to set realistic expectations and provide individualized prognosis to avoid disappointment.
Embryo vitrification is safe but longer storage reduces chances of pregnancy success
Research found that vitrification technology is safe for embryos, but storing them for longer periods reduces chances of pregnancy and live birth. The study analyzed outcomes from 24,698 patients and found lower implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates with longer storage times.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJun 23, 2020
Psychiatric disorders after first birth reduce likelihood of subsequent children
Women with postpartum psychiatric disorders are less likely to have more children, with 69% still choosing to have a second child. The study found that nearly half of women with psychiatric problems had a reduced live birth rate due to hospitalization or fear of relapse.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 29, 2020
Long duration of sperm freezing makes no difference to live birth rates in large sperm bank study
A large-scale study found that long-term cryopreservation of semen does not affect pregnancy and live birth rates in women using donor sperm. The study analyzed 119,558 semen samples stored for up to 15 years and found similar success rates in IVF and donor insemination, despite a decline in frozen sperm survival rate over time.
Birth rates in Fukushima City before, after nuclear disaster
A study found a 10% reduction in monthly birth rates in Fukushima City following the 2011 nuclear disaster, but rates recovered similar to pre-disaster levels after several years. The authors suggest this may indicate post-disaster rebuilding efforts.
Genetic screening before embryo transfer fails to improve the chance of a baby
The largest randomized trial on genetic screening before embryo transfer found no difference in live birth rates between groups with and without the procedure. However, there was a lower miscarriage rate and fewer embryo transfers in the group that received genetic screening.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateAug 5, 2018
Zika virus and birth rates
Researchers found 119,095 fewer births than expected due to pregnancy postponement and increased safe abortions. Zika awareness likely contributed to the decrease in birth rates.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 2018
Does acupuncture increase the likelihood of a birth in women undergoing in vitro fertilization?
A randomized clinical trial of 824 women undergoing IVF found no significant difference in live birth rates between those receiving acupuncture and sham acupuncture. The study, published in JAMA, provides insight into the effectiveness of acupuncture in fertility treatments.
Vitamin D linked with better live birth rates in women undergoing assisted reproduction
Researchers found a strong link between low vitamin D concentrations and lower live birth rates after ART compared to those with sufficient levels. Women with adequate vitamin D were 34% more likely to have a positive pregnancy test and 46% more likely to achieve a clinical pregnancy.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateNov 14, 2017
Sharp rise in children admitted to intensive care in England and Wales since 2009
The number of children admitted to intensive care has risen sharply since 2009, defying expectations of population growth or birth rate increases. The trend, driven by higher admission rates among younger children and those with breathing or cardiovascular problems, poses a significant challenge for the NHS.
Researchers document changes in teenage parenthood
Researchers found that teen fathers are less likely to provide financial support, but teen parents are staying in school longer and have seen an uptick in income. The study suggests that factors like the 'cougar effect' and improved reporting of teenage males may contribute to the growth in teenage paternity.
The more eggs the better in IVF?
A higher number of eggs retrieved in IVF treatment is linked to more chromosomally normal embryos available for transfer. The benefit of a greater oocyte yield decreases with advancing female age.
Delivery rates in IVF are affected by the age of the male partner
A new study of almost 19,000 IVF treatment cycles reveals that the age of the male partner significantly affects live birth success rate. The study found a decline in cumulative incidence of live birth with increasing male partner age, particularly among women aged 30-35 and those over 40.
Increasing minimum wage would reduce teen pregnancies
A new study by Indiana University researchers found that increasing the minimum wage would likely reduce the US adolescent birth rate by about 2%. This translates to approximately 5,000 fewer births annually. Higher wages can motivate teens to work and delay childbearing or prioritize leisure time over parenthood.
Global declines in adolescent childbearing related to national income, education expenditures
A global study found a significant association between rising national income, education expenditures, and declining rates of adolescent childbearing. The median adolescent birth rate dropped by 40% from 1990 to 2012, with the highest rates in Sub-Saharan Africa and lowest in Europe and Central Asia.
SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateNov 15, 2016
Trends in late preterm, early term birth rates and association with clinician-initiated obstetric interventions
A study found late preterm and early term birth rates decreased in the US between 2006 and 2014. Clinician-initiated obstetric interventions also declined, particularly among births over 37 weeks, suggesting a positive association with delayed interventions.
Still no strong evidence that adjunctive treatment with human growth hormone in IVF improves results
A recent ESHRE study found that human growth hormone did not improve live birth rates in women having difficulty conceiving, with a clinical pregnancy rate of 14% in the treatment group and 11% in the placebo group. Poor responders are a challenging group to treat, accounting for up to 30% of patients who respond poorly to treatment.
Out-of-hospital births are on the rise
US out-of-hospital birth rates increased to nearly 1.5% of total births in 2014, with non-Hispanic white women experiencing the largest growth. Many women face difficulty accessing insurance coverage for out-of-hospital births, leading to high self-pay rates.
IVF, often cited for high twin birth rate, could reduce it
The US twin birth rate has surged over the last 30 years, partly due to reproductive technologies like IVF. Implementing single embryo transfer IVF could reduce unintended twin births by minimizing serious medical complications. This approach is recommended for insurance coverage and curtails the national twin birth rate.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals -- threatening fertility in industrialized countries
A new scientific review article reveals that endocrine-disrupting chemicals are contributing to declining fertility rates in industrialized countries. Poor semen quality and higher incidences of testicular cancer have been linked to environmental factors, with average men experiencing lower levels of testosterone.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalPhysiological Reviews·DateDec 10, 2015
Black women in Canada have substantially higher risk of preterm birth than white women
A Canadian study found that black women are at a higher risk of preterm birth than white women, with rates mirroring those in the US. The study analyzed data from the Canadian Live Birth database and found that black women had an 8.9% preterm birth rate, compared to 5.9% for white women.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 9, 2015
March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card grades cities; focuses on racial disparities
The US earns a 'C' grade for its preterm birth rate, with racial and ethnic disparities persisting in many states. Cities like Portland, Oregon, and St. Paul, Minnesota, have lower rates, while Shreveport, Louisiana, has the highest rate among major cities.
In vitro fertilization using frozen eggs associated with lower live birth rates
A study published in JAMA found that using frozen donor eggs for IVF is linked to lower live birth rates compared to fresh eggs. The study analyzed data from over 11,000 cycles and found that per started cycle, the live birth rate was 43% with frozen eggs vs 50% with fresh eggs.
IVF in women over 38: The doctor's dilemma
A study by Dr. Marta Devesa found that IVF cumulative live birth rates decline significantly with age, especially in women using their own eggs, with a 3% chance of success at 44 and over. In contrast, egg donation shows higher success rates, making it a viable alternative for older patients.
Cervical component protects against infection and preterm birth in mice
A new study has found that the extracellular matrix component hyaluronan (HA) in the cervix provides protection against infection, which can lead to preterm birth. Mice unable to produce HA had abnormal cervical structures and higher preterm birth rates in response to infection.
US preterm birth rate hits Healthy People 2020 goal 7 years early
The national preterm birth rate fell to 11.4% in 2013, beating the federal Healthy People 2020 goal seven years ahead of schedule. Despite this progress, the US still ranks among high resource countries with one of the highest preterm birth rates.
Low birth rates can actually pay off in the US and other countries
A global study from University of California, Berkeley suggests that a moderately low birth rate can actually boost a country's overall standard of living. Researchers found that families bear the costs of raising children, while governments should adjust policies to accommodate population aging.
Recessions result in lower birth rates in the long run
New research from Princeton University shows that recessions have a profound impact on fertility, leading to lower birth rates in the short and long term. Women who experience high unemployment during their 20s are more likely to remain childless by age 40, with the effects increasing exponentially over time.
SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2014
Freeze-storage egg banking for egg donation treatment
A study by Dr Ana Cobo found that cumulative live birth rates increase progressively with the number of vitrified eggs used, reaching a plateau at 97.3% with 40 eggs. Egg banking can provide a large pool of donor eggs without synchronizing cycles, making it a more efficient and safer process.
Scientists chart a baby boom -- in southwestern Native-Americans from 500 to 1300 A.D.
Researchers analyzed human remains in the Four Corners region, finding a centuries-long population growth and subsequent collapse due to overpopulation and environmental degradation. The study highlights the importance of considering population growth's consequences for modern societies.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2014
WSU researchers chart an ancient baby boom
Researchers charted an ancient baby boom in the southwestern US among Native Americans between 500 to 1300 A.D. Birth rates likely exceeded the highest in the world today, driven by early features of civilization such as farming and food storage. However, a crash followed, offering a warning sign about the dangers of overpopulation.
SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2014
Sporting success does affect birth rates
A study published in The BMJ found a significant increase in births in Catalonia nine months after FC Barcelona won three major football trophies. Births rose by 16% in February 2010, with some areas experiencing even higher increases, although the findings fall short of earlier media reports.
Starting dialysis after -- not before -- conception may improve birth rates in women with advanced kidney disease
A recent study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that women with advanced kidney disease who start dialysis during pregnancy have a higher live birth rate compared to those already on dialysis. This discovery may help guide care for young women who need dialysis.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 14, 2013
US preterm birth rate drops to 15-year low
The US preterm birth rate has dropped to its lowest level in 15 years, but the country still earns a 'C' grade. Since 2006, about 176,000 fewer babies have been born too soon, potentially saving $9 billion in health and societal costs.
Economic crisis lowers birth rates
A new study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers finds that rising unemployment rates in Europe have led to a decrease in fertility, with young adults being the most affected. The drop in children per woman was strongest for first births, with many postponing family formation.
Best-available science will allow just 5 percent relative reduction in high-income countries' preterm birth rates by 2015
A study suggests that limiting non-medically indicated caesareans and induced labor can reduce preterm births in high-income countries. Implementing evidence-based interventions could avert around 58,000 preterm births annually, saving $3 billion in economic costs.
Preterm birth can be prevented with a few proven treatments, Lancet article say
Experts claim that lowering preterm birth rates by an average of 5 percent across 39 high-resource countries can prevent prematurity for 58,000 babies a year. Combining five proven interventions can lower the preterm rate and save about $3 billion in health costs.
The hidden consequences of helping rural communities in Africa
A new study reveals that improving water supplies in rural African villages can lead to higher birth rates, larger family sizes, and increased household shortages. As a result, young adults are more likely to migrate to cities, exacerbating poverty and urbanization issues.
US preterm birth rate shows 5-year improvement
The US preterm birth rate dropped for the fifth consecutive year in 2011 to 11.7 percent, giving thousands more babies a healthy start in life and saving billions in health and social costs. Four states earned an 'A' on the March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card, while the US earned a 'C', despite progress.
Higher levels of public reimbursement positively influence national birth rates and reduce unmet needs in subfertile populations
A study found that higher public reimbursement for fertility treatment increases access to care, reducing unmet needs in subfertile populations. Countries with more generous funding policies have a higher volume of ART cycles performed and lower rates of multiple births.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 2, 2012
Success of fertility treatment may approach natural birth rate
A massive study of nearly 250,000 U.S. women found that live birth rates for fertility treatment can approach natural fertility rates with favorable patient and embryo characteristics. The study highlights the importance of factors such as age and embryo quality in determining success rates.
Preterm birth rate drops in just 3 countries over past 20 years
Preterm birth rates have decreased in Croatia, Ecuador, and Estonia over the past 20 years, with only six countries showing a decrease. The preterm birth rate increased in most countries, with European nations experiencing significant rises, particularly Cyprus and Slovenia.
New global report says US lags behind 130 other nations in preterm birth rate
The US has the highest preterm birth rate among 130 countries, with 12.0 preterm births per 100 live births. Nearly half a million babies are born too soon in the US each year, resulting in significant human and economic costs.
Wellesley study shows income inequality a key factor in high US teen births
A recent US study found that teens in areas of high income inequality are more likely to have a baby. Low-income teens are more likely to give birth rather than investing in their own economic progress. The study suggests that teen childbearing is a symptom, not a cause of poverty.
March of Dimes launches Prematurity Prevention Network
The March of Dimes has launched a virtual network to prevent preterm birth, with the goal of reducing the rate to 9.6%. The network aims to share information on successful programs and policies to prevent preterm births, resulting in better health outcomes for babies.
Preterm birth rate shows three year improvement in most states
The US preterm birth rate has improved by nearly 5% between 2006 and 2009, with 40,000 more babies receiving a healthy start in life. This improvement is attributed to various health interventions and treatments, including progesterone, which have reduced medically unnecessary c-sections and inductions.
New analysis confirms sharks are in trouble
A recent study confirms shark populations are in trouble worldwide, with significant declines observed on the Great Barrier Reef. The research used innovative methods to estimate population growth rates, finding that sharks are declining rapidly due to fishing.
Removal of fibroids that distort the womb cavity may prevent recurrent miscarriages
Researchers found a link between fibroids and recurrent miscarriages, with removal of distorting fibroids reducing risk of miscarriage in second trimester. Removing such fibroids also doubled live birth rate in subsequent pregnancies for women with unexplained RM.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateSep 27, 2011
15 eggs is the perfect number needed to achieve a live birth after IVF
A study analyzing over 400,000 IVF cycles in the UK found that aiming for 15 eggs retrieved per cycle maximizes live birth rates while minimizing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome risk. The number of eggs above 20 leads to a decline in live birth rates.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMay 10, 2011
The enigma of the missing stars in space may be solved
Astronomers from Bonn and St. Andrews discover that the discrepancy between calculated and observed star numbers may be due to an overestimation of stellar crowding, a phenomenon where young stars are born in groups, leading to more massive stars being overlooked.
Preterm birth rates improve in most states
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.
US gets a 'D' for preterm birth rate
The US received a 'D' grade on the March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card, with over half a million newborns not receiving a healthy start. Seven states improved their preterm birth rates by reducing smoking, uninsured rates, and late preterm births.