Articles tagged with Mothers
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.
A US study found that mothers carry the majority of the 'mental load' in managing daily household tasks. The imbalance affects not only family life but also women's careers and public life. Researchers encourage families to share the workload more fairly, benefiting everyone.
Increasing serotonin levels in the gut epithelium improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in animal studies, suggesting a new therapeutic approach. The study also highlights the risk of digestive issues in children exposed to antidepressants during pregnancy.
A study reveals that lower-income and minority mothers face disproportionate challenges in postpartum health due to inadequate social support systems. The research emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions to improve maternal health equity, strengthen postpartum care, and reduce health disparities.
A Concordia study of 300 Montreal households found that mothers have up to twice the impact on language exposure compared to fathers. Mothers typically transmit heritage languages, even if both parents are heritage-language speakers, due to cultural factors and spending more time at home.
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.
Scientists discover that pregnant and nursing women's intestines undergo significant changes, doubling their surface area and reorganizing villi structure. This adaptation is crucial for the health of babies and may have long-term metabolic consequences.
A study by the University of Surrey found that self-identified feminist mothers in England often struggle to balance their values with the need to protect their children from gendered risks. Despite advocating for open and honest communication about sexual rights, safety, and wellbeing, they may adopt protective strategies that contrad...
A new gene therapy has shown promise in reversing a condition that causes significant stillbirths and premature deliveries globally. The therapy, developed by University of Florida Health researcher Helen N. Jones, successfully boosted placental function and delivered normal-weight offspring in guinea pig models.
A Brazilian study of 89 father-mother-baby triads found that paternal overweight is linked to lower birth weight and may influence the baby's health in adulthood. The research suggests that fathers should prioritize healthy habits during pregnancy to support fetal development.
A new study aims to uncover genetic and phenotypic factors affecting maternal health, including Alzheimer's disease. The research may lead to preventive or therapeutic strategies for women's health worldwide.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that unplanned pregnancies lead to a sharper decline in health during the first two years after childbirth, particularly among young women. In contrast, women who become mothers at an older age recover more easily due to better initial health.
A new study by UCL researchers found that mothers who regularly describe their child's thoughts and feelings have higher oxytocin levels in infants. The hormone oxytocin plays a crucial role in social relationships and bonding between parents and children.
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.
Women who experience severe maternal morbidity in their first birth are less likely to have a subsequent birth. Enhancing antenatal care and reproductive counseling are crucial for women with this history.
The study found that irritability was the most common systemic reaction in children under 2 years, followed by fever and fatigue or sleepiness. Maternal vaccination is thought to be a factor in the higher prevalence of reactions after the first dose.
A new study found that a prenatal diet meeting USDA guidelines is linked to healthy birthweights, steady growth patterns, and potentially lower childhood obesity. Researchers also discovered mixed effects of low-inflammatory diets on infant growth.
A new study from Northwestern Medicine reveals a significant increase in severe maternal morbidity and birth complications in Illinois between 2016 and 2023. The findings highlight the impact of chronic health conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and mental health disorders on pregnancy outcomes.
A UC Riverside study found that probiotic supplementation can reduce the negative impacts of PBDEs on neurodevelopment, behavior, and metabolism in mouse offspring. The researchers discovered that LR treatment helped normalize body weight gain and tooth eruption timing, as well as improved glucose metabolism and insulin levels.
A study of Polish women found that their mothers' and daughters' views on feminism often converged, with pro-feminist attitudes being more prevalent among younger generations. The research suggests that family dynamics play a significant role in shaping women's worldviews on gender equality.
A UCL study reveals that unregulated experts appointed by family courts in England and Wales have caused devastating harm to children, separating them from their mothers and forcing them to live with abusive fathers. The 'alienation' belief system has become a legal weapon that punishes and controls those who speak up about abuse.
A Japanese study of over 97,000 1-3-year-olds found a possible link between maternal prenatal psychological distress and increased epilepsy diagnosis rates in their offspring. The research suggests that continuous stress during pregnancy may be a contributing factor to the development of epilepsy in young children.
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.
Metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, may increase risks of obesity and diabetes in newborns when given to pregnant women. The study found that the drug accumulated in the fetal kidneys, liver, and other organs, leading to growth restriction, which has been linked to an elevated risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood.
A longitudinal cohort study found no significant associations between prenatal SARS-CoV-2 infection and child neurodevelopment outcomes in the first two years of life. Follow-up research is needed to determine if these effects persist into later childhood.
A recent study found that over a quarter of new mothers have fallen asleep while feeding their babies, increasing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Researchers are urging care providers to inform new moms about the potential risks and provide guidance on safe feeding practices.
A multicenter national clinical trial is being conducted to study whether giving antibiotics at the start of labor induction can decrease C-sections in pregnant women with obesity. The trial aims to enroll nearly 800 women and analyze infection rates, complications, and microbiome changes.
New research led by the University of Southampton found that vitamin D supplements during pregnancy increase children's bone mineral density in mid-childhood. Children born to mothers who received extra vitamin D supplementation had stronger bones and were less likely to break them.
A new NIH study found exposure to organophosphate esters (OPEs) during pregnancy may affect childhood obesity risk. Children exposed to higher levels of certain OPEs had a greater or lower risk of obesity compared to those with lower exposure.
Researchers found that women who chose their birthing position voluntarily were more satisfied with the birth experience. Around three quarters of mothers gave birth lying on their side or back, but up to 40% stated they didn't choose their position. Women who had autonomy over their birthing position reported higher satisfaction rates.
Research found that mothers' ability to mediate threatening situations and regulate their emotions can significantly reduce the link between maternal PTSD symptoms and child PTSD symptoms. Mothers with high self-regulation skills may be better able to separate their stress response from that of their children, providing them with a sen...
A study of 19,259 university students from 48 countries found that parental leave policies influence perceptions of social norms for equal childcare division among mothers and fathers. The degree to which participants believed childcare should be equally divided was stronger when parental leave was available in their country.
A large cohort study found that mothers with eating disorders were more likely to have children with psychiatric disorders, while those with pre-pregnancy BMI outside the normal range also showed an increased risk. The findings suggest that clinicians should consider these factors when preventing offspring mental illness.
A recent study found that caregivers' interactions with toddlers shape their future social behavior with peers. Children who exhibit responsiveness and assertiveness during play are more likely to succeed in new social situations.
A cohort study found no association between maternal COVID-19 exposure and abnormal neurodevelopmental screening results in children aged 24 months. Continued research is needed due to the developing fetal brain's sensitivity to maternal immune activation.
Researchers analyzed DNA sequences from 25,000 pregnant Chinese women and identified genetic variants associated with maternal diseases such as gestational diabetes and obesity. The study also found links between maternal genetics and childhood diseases like gastroenteritis and acute tonsillitis.
New research suggests parenting programs that address both mental health and parenting skills can improve children's development. However, these programs often fall short in providing effective mental-health support for parents, who may struggle with depression during the perinatal period.
A new Finnish study reveals that women with a fear of childbirth have a significantly shorter breastfeeding duration. The research found that fear of childbirth is associated with a three times higher risk of not meeting the recommended six-month exclusive breastfeeding period.
A study by University of Cambridge historian Emily Rhodes found that 17th-century foster carers were entitled to payment from the parish and had significant authority over the authorities. They often accused local authorities of mismanagement and dishonesty, leading to increased funding for their care.
A study by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that high levels of specific antibodies in breast milk provide protection against rotavirus, a common gastrointestinal disease. The findings highlight the importance of optimized breastfeeding practices to improve infant health globally.
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.
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine has released comprehensive guidelines for protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding in emergency situations. The recommendations aim to safeguard the health and well-being of infants in disasters and conflicts by ensuring safe nutrition and immune protection.
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 cross-sectional study in California finds that legacies of redlining contribute to increased severe maternal morbidity, highlighting the need for place-based interventions. The study suggests that addressing structural drivers of adverse pregnancy outcomes and racial inequities is crucial.
A recent cohort study found that prenatal exposure to COVID-19 during pregnancy did not increase the risk of autism screening in toddlers. The research suggests that maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and pandemic-related exposure had no significant impact on autism positivity rates.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of over 3.6 million mother-child pairs found that maternal obesity during pregnancy significantly linked with psychiatric and behavioral problems in children later in life, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Researchers identify specific brain area and activity patterns associated with postpartum depression risk in pregnant women. They propose a potential test based on these findings to help detect high-risk individuals.
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.
A new study reveals that two specific genes in the RNA interference pathway play a crucial role in preventing virus transmission from parent to progeny in plants. This discovery could lead to healthier crops and potentially reduce the transmission of diseases like Zika from mothers to human children.
A recent clinical trial found that an IV iron treatment called ferric carboxymaltose works faster and better than oral iron tablets in treating anaemia during pregnancy. The study showed improved haemoglobin levels and iron correction with the IV treatment, with comparable side effects.
Researchers have created the first map of a human brain over the course of pregnancy, documenting changes in gray and white matter. These findings suggest that the adult brain is capable of undergoing extended periods of neuroplasticity, which may support behavioral adaptations tied to parenting.
A new NIH-funded study found that children who experienced food insecurity during early childhood or whose mothers experienced it during pregnancy had a higher BMI and increased chance of developing obesity. Researchers explored how neighborhood food access affected child body mass index and obesity over time.
Research found that babies born to pregnant women consuming high-fat, high-energy diets are more likely to develop heart problems and diabetes as adults due to fetal damage. Consuming a high-fat diet during pregnancy also increases the likelihood of insulin resistance in adulthood.
Researchers found that women exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and inhalable particulate matter during the second trimester face an almost fourfold increased risk of postpartum depression. The study also discovered a sustained effect of air pollution on symptoms of depression for up to three years after birth.
A new study by Florida Atlantic University finds that maternal disapproval of children's friends damages their standing among peers, exacerbating behavior problems. Mothers who meddle in their child's friendships inadvertently worsen their behavior issues.
A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a correlation between high temperatures in the final week of pregnancy and an increased risk of stillbirth and early neonatal mortality. High temperatures were associated with a 34% higher risk of perinatal death, which doubled during the six hottest months of the year.
Research reveals that maternal prenatal smoking can limit a child's academic performance and put them behind their peers at school. The systematic review of 19 studies and 1.25 million participants found that 79% of studies reported reduced academic achievement in children exposed to maternal prenatal smoking.
A KKH study found that exclusively breastfed women with high body mass index (BMI) lost more weight than those with a healthy BMI pre-pregnancy, with an average weight loss of 200 grammes. Women who practiced exclusive breastfeeding retained less postnatal weight compared to mixed feeding or formula feeding.
A study in mice found that the bacteria Bifidobacterium breve supports healthy brain development in fetuses, improving nutrient transport and cell processes. This discovery suggests using probiotics during pregnancy may support fetal brain health and future treatments for growth restriction could focus on maternal gut health.
A new study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that probiotics can improve the immune system and behavior of both mothers and their offspring during pregnancy. Probiotics may also help counteract negative effects of prenatal stress, such as changes in brain inflammation and amino acid metabolism.