Research on mothers' health, family life, and parenting. Covers maternal wellbeing, vaccination questions, marriage and relationships, and breastfeeding.
A new special issue of Bundesgesundheitsblatt explores the prevalence, benefits, and risks of breastfeeding in Germany. The study highlights the positive effects of breastfeeding for both mother and child, including reduced risk of respiratory infections and overweight/Type 2 diabetes.
A new national study has found that inducing labor in first-time mothers at 39 weeks can lower respiratory problems and potentially decrease cesarean rates and hypertension. Researchers suggest discussing induction with healthcare providers to inform the decision, as it may lead to significant changes in pregnancy management.
A study found that inducing labor at 39 weeks in healthy women reduces the need for cesarean sections and is as safe as waiting for spontaneous labor. The procedure may also lower the risk of preeclampsia and respiratory issues in newborns.
New research reveals that mothers hold similar views when parenting their first and second children. However, their behavior with the two children varies, with first-borns being more sociable and emotionally available.
A multicenter study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that inducing labor in healthy first-time mothers at 39 weeks reduced cesarean sections compared to waiting for labor naturally. Infants born to induced mothers did not experience more stillbirths or newborn deaths.
Researchers found that exposure to household smoke shortens breastfeeding duration, and fathers who smoke are less likely to prefer breastfeeding. The study suggests quitting smoking before pregnancy is crucial for new mothers.
A study found that children of mothers with epilepsy who took folic acid supplements had lower rates of language delays compared to those who did not take supplements. The study suggests that folic acid may be beneficial in preventing language delays for babies born to mothers with epilepsy.
A recent study by Brigham Young University found that family prayer has a positive impact on family relationships, reducing relational tension and increasing feelings of connectedness. The research involved 198 Christian, Jewish, and Muslim families from diverse backgrounds who shared their experiences of praying together as a family.
Researchers have identified four biomarkers, including a new chemical called verruculotoxin, that may predict signs of first-trimester stillbirth. By analyzing maternal blood, scientists can develop tools to screen for preventable illnesses affecting both women and children.
A large study found that children of mothers with type 1 diabetes have a significantly higher body mass index, waist circumference, and fasting blood glucose level. The researchers suggest that pediatricians should monitor these children for early warning signs of the condition.
A mother's presence can modulate serotonin levels in her pup's developing brain, according to a rat study published in eNeuro. The research found that maternal care increases activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region rich in serotonin receptors.
A study found paternal depression rates comparable to mothers among young children during well-child visits. Pediatric clinics are a promising setting to address depression in families, with screening showing a notable frequency.
Researchers at the University of Freiburg discovered that mother plants use the auxin hormone to guide embryo development. This communication may help breeders create more resilient plants in response to environmental challenges.
Researcher Guro Strøm Solli studied Marit Bjørgen's pre- and post-pregnancy training regime, revealing how she trained at moderate intensity despite experiencing weight gain and physiological changes. Bjørgen's high-training volume during pregnancy was also remarkable, with 555 hours of training in 316 sessions.
A collection of 40 personal accounts from women chemists in academia provide inspiration to future generations, highlighting the barriers women face in academia. The book aims to raise awareness and inspire female students to consider an academic career in science.
Research finds that babies born to mothers with depression in pregnancy show altered behavior and biological changes, linked to depression-induced inflammation. These changes may contribute to a higher risk of depression in children born to depressed mothers as adults.
Researchers found higher rates of prenatal depression among young pregnant women compared to their mothers' generation in the 1990s. The study suggests that depression may be more common today among pregnant women due to various factors requiring further investigation.
A study of European mothers has identified a gene involved in steroid signaling as a potential factor in early birth. Mutations in the HSPA1L gene are rare but may disrupt proper functioning of cells lining the uterus, leading to preterm labor.
Studies of over 4,000 mothers found that male and female babies have different genetic profiles in their placentas, which affect the levels of spermine metabolites. Higher levels of a specific form of spermine were associated with increased risks of pre-eclampsia and poor fetal growth.
A new study by Michigan State University and Texas Christian University found that support from colleagues is instrumental to women continuing breastfeeding after returning to work. The research suggests that co-worker support and a supportive workplace environment can make a significant difference in breastfeeding success.
A new study by researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that exposing newborn mice to vaginal microbes from stressed female mice can transfer the effects of stress to the newborns. The study indicates that maternal stress affects brain development in offspring and may be influenced by the vaginal microbiota.
A major study found that one in three pregnant women in Norway has a vitamin D deficiency at the end of their pregnancy. Low levels can affect bone health and increase the risk of asthma in children. The study suggests that small measures, such as taking supplements and eating fish, can have positive effects on vitamin D levels.
A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that mothers' adherence to healthy lifestyle practices can significantly lower the risk of childhood obesity. The study, which examined data from over 24,000 children and their mothers, found that following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy wei...
A study published in The BMJ found that children of mothers who follow a healthy lifestyle have a substantially lower risk of developing obesity. The research suggests that if both mothers and their children stick to a healthy lifestyle, this could result in an even further reduction in the risk of childhood obesity.
A new study reveals that mothers of juvenile offenders maintain high aspirations for their sons, but lower expectations due to continued delinquency. Lower-income mothers tend to have higher aspirations for upward mobility.
A pilot study found nearly half of ED-arrival mothers screened positive for PPD, highlighting the need for routine screening in emergency departments. Interventions improved mental health outcomes and family support, with many participants thanking healthcare providers for follow-up care.
A large Canadian study published in CMAJ found that trauma to both mother and baby during vaginal deliveries, especially forceps deliveries, has increased. The rate of severe perineal tearing accounted for 87% of the cases of obstetric trauma among operative vaginal deliveries.
A Hong Kong-based study found that nursing mothers who live with two or more smokers are more likely to stop breastfeeding sooner. The study, published in Breastfeeding Medicine, discovered a 30% higher risk of ending breastfeeding before a year among these mothers.
A UBC study suggests that anger is a significant feature in postpartum mood disturbances, contributing to feelings of powerlessness and unmet expectations. Ignoring anger in women with postnatal mood disorders may exacerbate symptoms and negatively impact mothers, children, and families.
Researchers found a skewed ratio of male-to-female babies born to second-generation mothers of South Asian descent, similar to earlier findings in first-generation mothers. However, this study suggests that second-generation mothers may be less likely to undergo abortion, leading to the persistence of son preference.
A longitudinal study found that having a good relationship with a sibling can protect against the negative consequences of witnessing repeated hostility between parents. Siblings who had good bonds were less likely to experience distress and subsequent mental health problems.
A study of young bonobos in captivity reveals that immature females prepare for motherhood by helping mothers care for infants and forge alliances with them. This behavior is linked to increased oxytocin production, associated with complex social behaviors and maternal activities.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University found that mothers who have an episiotomy during their first delivery are more likely to require the procedure in subsequent deliveries. The study of over 43,000 deliveries found a higher likelihood of perineal tissue tears and repeat procedures among women who had an episiotomy.
A study by the University of Cambridge suggests that mothers' thoughts and feelings about their baby during pregnancy are associated with later interactions. Researchers analyzed data from 1,862 mothers and found a modest link between positive attitudes and sensitivity in parent-child interaction.
A new study found that fathers' early parenting quality is influenced by their partner's gatekeeping behaviors, with more criticism leading to worse parenting at 9 months old. Mothers' attitudes and behaviors can shape how fathers interact with their children.
Research finds higher Treg lymphocyte levels in uninfected babies born to mothers with HIV, suggesting a protective mechanism against infection. This discovery could pave the way for vaccine or immune-based therapies to prevent HIV transmission from mothers to their babies.
A Baylor University study found that birth mothers' satisfaction with their decision to place children for adoption is affected by time, age, education, income, and contact with the child. The research revealed that higher education, financial success, and older age led to decreased satisfaction, while current contact with the child an...
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that playing recordings of mothers' voices can significantly improve sleep quality for babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The study, which enrolled 50 babies born after 33 weeks gestation, showed that babies slept better and woke up less often when exposed to their mother's voice. Researc...
Research published in The Journal of Physiology shows adult offspring born to older mothers are more susceptible to heart risks. Older motherhood is linked to increased risk of complications during pregnancy and potential health issues for children later in life.
A study found that increasing omega-3 fatty acids in mothers during pregnancy and lactation reduced weight gain and metabolic disruptions in infant mice fed a high-fat diet. This suggests that a balanced ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fats is critical for reducing the lifetime risk of obesity in children.
Grand Challenges Canada announces $10 million investment in 100 innovative projects addressing women's and children's health challenges in low- and middle-income countries. The projects aim to reduce maternal mortality, improve reproductive healthcare, and combat stigmas, with potential to save 1.1 million lives by 2030.
A new study by Brigham Young University finds that mothers with high emotional control and problem-solving abilities are less likely to have children develop behavioral problems. The study also suggests that improving mothers' emotional and cognitive control can lead to a reduction in harsh verbal parenting and child conduct problems.
Plants use genetic memory systems to integrate seasonal signals and optimise key lifecycle stages, including flowering, seed dispersal, and dormancy. This study identifies the precise mechanism by which temperature information is passed from mother to seeds, enabling reproductive bet-hedging and diversity in offspring.
A recent study published in Acta Paediatrica reveals that Greenlandic children are growing taller than ever before, with average heights now comparable to those of Danish children. This shift is attributed to a combination of genetic factors and improved maternal health, particularly among mothers who are obese.
Cesarean-born babies may be at risk for health problems due to differences in their microbiome. A new review suggests that routine antibiotic administration during C-section deliveries is a major underlying problem, rather than a lack of exposure to vaginal microbes.
A longitudinal study by the University of Sussex found that new mothers' voices temporarily drop after childbirth, becoming lower-pitched and more monotonous. The researchers analyzed women's voices over a 10-year period and found that this 'vocal masculinising' is not caused by aging.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that US citizen children whose mothers are eligible for DACA are more likely to participate in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). The study analyzed data from nearly 2,000 children and their mothers, revealing a significant increase in WIC ...
A case study and literature review concludes that breastfeeding should continue normally in mothers and babies with red diaper syndrome caused by Serratia marcescens. Treatment of the bacteria is not recommended for healthy infants, and clinical judgement should guide physicians' decisions.
A study of over 7,000 low-income urban mothers found that fewer than 5% started folic acid supplementation before pregnancy. Despite the high risk of neural tube defects, many women did not take prenatal vitamins preconception or during pregnancy. The research team also found that black and Hispanic mothers had lower plasma folate conc...
A new test developed by UCSF scientists can predict a woman's risk of preterm birth with over 80 percent accuracy when taken between 15 and 20 weeks pregnant. This information enables doctors to treat women at high risk for preterm birth, potentially preventing severe complications.
Researchers at OHSU have identified the molecular basis linking a pregnant mother's nutrition to her child's growth. A key protein called DLX1 was found to impact GHRH and AgRP neuron development, affecting growth and metabolism in infants.
Young orphaned elephants alter their home ranges due to poaching risks and need for food, shifting towards novel areas with easier access to green pasture. This inter-generational response has significant implications for elephant populations as habitats are increasingly squeezed by human activity.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that mothers who don't get enough sleep or have poor quality sleep are more likely to engage in permissive parenting with their adolescents. Mothers who receive adequate sleep, on the other hand, are less likely to be permissive and report better parenting behaviors.
A new study published in The Journal of Physiology found that proper maternal care can significantly reduce abnormalities in the offspring's body clock, leading to a lower likelihood of developing heart disease. This suggests that early life experiences may play a crucial role in shaping an individual's health later in adulthood.
New UBC research suggests access to flexible work arrangements, such as working from home and choosing hours, improves wages for mothers, particularly those with a university degree. Flexible work benefits primarily by reducing barriers to employment in higher-paying firms, offering an important lesson for hiring managers.
A study found that children who have more opportunities for autonomous work complete school assignments persistently, leading to better skill development. In contrast, concrete help can make the child less task-persistent and develop poorer skills.
Researchers found that attempted VBAC is linked to higher relative rates of severe adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes compared to elective repeat cesarean delivery. This is particularly concerning for women with a history of single previous cesarean section, where predicting successful VBAC can be challenging.
A new study found that a family history of psychiatric disorders, especially bipolar disorder, increases the risk of postpartum psychiatric conditions in mothers. The risk is higher when there's a male relative with a psychiatric disorder, and it's more pronounced among women without prior mental health issues.
A recent study found that mothers of infants born with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) have a higher prevalence of mental health diagnoses in the first two months postpartum. Mothers with a history of substance use disorders are more likely to experience co-occurring psychiatric and mood disorders.
A new study found that longer maternity leave duration increases breastfeeding success throughout the first year of life in military populations. Active duty mothers under a 12-week policy had a significant increase in breastfeeding duration and exclusivity, while no difference was seen with a six-week policy.