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.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 23, 2024
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.
A recent study found that C-section antibiotics have a subtle impact on the infant gut microbiome, whereas diet has a significant impact. The study analyzed data from 172 infant samples and found that feeding mode explained 12% of variation in overall infant gut microbiome composition.
A new study published in PLOS One found that most people view humor as an effective parenting tool, leading to improved relationships between parents and children. The research team surveyed 312 people aged 18-45 and discovered a correlation between a parent's use of humor and the quality of their relationship with their children.
Pregnant women exposed to buprenorphine combined with naloxone had similar or more favorable outcomes compared to those exposed to buprenorphine alone. This suggests that both formulations are safe treatment options for opioid use disorder during pregnancy.
A new study by Lancaster University highlights that women are more likely than men to experience 'digital overload' and burnout due to their greater use of digital technologies in both work and family lives. The research emphasizes the need for gender-egalitarian work-from-home arrangements and policies to address this issue.
A clinical study in Birmingham has found that nipocalimab can improve the survival rate of unborn babies with rare fetal anaemia. The majority of pregnant patients who received nipocalimab gave birth at or after 32 weeks without needing an intrauterine transfusion, resulting in a perinatal survival rate of 92%.
A major new study by Karolinska Institutet has found that women with epilepsy are four times more likely to die during pregnancy and their babies have a 50 percent higher risk of illness or death. Despite the high relative risks, most pregnancies for women with epilepsy go well.
A recent study found that vaginal birth without medical intervention results in the highest level of satisfaction among mothers, while obstetric interventions lead to lower scores. The researchers emphasize the importance of support and empowerment in mitigating negative experiences during childbirth.
Research found mothers carry a 73% share of cognitive household labor compared to partners' 27%, contributing to mental health issues. The study highlights the invisible dimension of household labor that affects women's well-being and relationship quality.
A new study using live mice and influenza virus sheds light on how maternal immune response affects fetal brain development. Researchers found that only a subset of severe infections can cause changes in the developing fetal brain, increasing the risk for neurodevelopmental disorders like schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder.
A new study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that outpatient induction of labor is a safe and effective option for first-time mothers. The study showed that three-quarters of the mothers successfully delivered their babies vaginally, with very high levels of patient satisfaction.
Infants born to mothers with obesity are at higher risk of SUID due to a dose-dependent association between increasing maternal BMI and SUID risk. Research suggests that maternal obesity should be added to the list of known risk factors for SUID.
Research suggests that exposure to type 1 diabetes in the womb confers long-term protection against the condition in children with affected mothers, but not fathers. The study found a relative risk of 1.8 for children diagnosed with T1D if their father has the condition compared to those with affected mothers.
A new study from the University of California, Berkeley reveals a significant increase in underweight and premature births among non-white women in the US after Trump's election. Black mothers had the largest increases, with about 3,783 fewer infants born underweight if Trump hadn't been elected.
Neurons in the brain's zona incerta (ZI) are activated by maternal presence, reducing infant distress and stress hormone levels. The study suggests that these neurons integrate sensory signals to facilitate social interactions, providing a potential entry point for studying infant development.
A cohort study found that prenatal cannabis use was associated with several negative maternal health outcomes during pregnancy. The study emphasizes the need for further research on how different aspects of prenatal cannabis use may impact these associations.
A new study has found that mothers working in traditionally 'women's work' fields experience a significant wage penalty after becoming parents. Women without children earn up to 12% more than their mother counterparts, highlighting the persistence of patriarchal biases in the workplace.
A cohort study found that a healthy prenatal dietary pattern was linked to reduced risk of autism diagnosis and social communication difficulties in offspring. Adherence to this dietary pattern was not significantly associated with reduced restrictive and repetitive behaviors.
A recent study published in iScience found that newborn chicks are predisposed to learn quicker based on the colour of their mother. The research team discovered a colour-dependent bias in learning speed, with chicks exposed to a deep blue mother learning faster than those raised by mothers with other colours.
A genetic study discovered a gene, TRPC5, associated with obesity, behavioral problems, and postnatal depression in mothers. Oxytocin may alleviate symptoms, suggesting it as a potential treatment for postnatal depression.
The NTU Singapore-led study found that mothers whose parents help with childcare are more likely to show their children parental warmth. Mothers who received childcare support from maternal grandparents also reported engaging in more positive parenting, characterized by warmth and responsiveness.
A recent study investigates maternal suicide mortality during the perinatal period, revealing complex factors and opportunities for further research. The findings underscore the importance of evidence-based interventions targeting mental health, substance use, and intimate partner problems to prevent maternal suicide and enhance matern...
A study published in Health Communication found that adults who looked to a person they knew, such as a friend or relative, for good health inspiration had greater motivation to reach their health goals. The women participants were more likely to choose a personal role model rather than a celebrity.
The HHS competition evaluated Ochsner Connected MOM's effectiveness in increasing blood pressure measurements among Black patients and rural populations. The program saw a statistically significant increase in blood pressure measurements, benefiting over 2,000 patients.
A randomized clinical study found that a lateral episiotomy reduced the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) by 53% in first-time mothers. The procedure also did not increase the risk of other complications, but may lead to wound complications.
A Cornell University study suggests that a strong relationship between mother and child is key to understanding human longevity. In models, the team found that species with longer-term maternal presence tend to evolve longer lives and slower life paces.
A recent study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that adults with a family history of Alzheimer's disease on their mother's side had higher amyloid levels in their brains. This suggests that maternal inheritance may play a role in identifying individuals at heightened risk for developing the disease.
A global meta-analysis of 1.8m women found COVID-19 vaccination reduces the risk of infection during pregnancy by 61% and hospitalization by 94%. Vaccination also lowers caesarean section risk by 9%, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy by 12%, and intensive care unit admission for newborns by 8%.
A new study from the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham found that the UK public is more accepting of adoption and surrogacy methods when one or both parents are infertile. The research showed significant increases in support for these methods, including planned private adoption and double donor surrogacy.
Researchers found that many bacterial strains present in infants at 3 weeks, months, and 12 months originated from the father, not the mother. This discovery highlights the importance of physical and social interactions between newborns and their fathers, as well as with other family members.
A majority of the American public favors providing incarcerated pregnant women with access to abortion, particularly in cases of rape or health risk. Most also support parental aid for these women, with conservative Republicans being least supportive of both
Researchers found that men exhibit grandiose narcissism, while women display vulnerable narcissism, which is associated with a greater risk of perpetrating intimate partner violence and bullying. Vulnerable narcissism in women can also lead to subtle but significant harm.
A study by Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research found that Italian mothers with 3+ children have a significantly shorter working life (7.6 years) compared to fathers (18.3 years). In contrast, Finland shows minimal differences in working life between mothers and fathers, with both working for pay for about 17.4 years.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that adolescents and their mothers preferred specific locations for discussing problems, with the house in general, bedroom, kitchen, and living room being top choices. These environments were perceived as safe spaces where conversation could flow more easily. Families also considered e...
A new 13-week group-based parent training program, Well Parent Japan (WPJ), has been shown to be effective in reducing parenting-specific stress, improving parenting efficacy, and reducing family strain for Japanese mothers of children with ADHD. The program provides social support and encourages shared learning amongst participants.
A recent study published in ScienceDirect found that adolescents who receive cognitive reappraisal solutions from their mothers experience more adaptive coping strategies, whereas those who receive strategizing or help-seeking solutions do not. On the other hand, children who reject or respond ambiguously to their mother's cognitive re...
Newborns of bilingual mothers exhibit greater sensitivity to a range of sound pitches compared to those from monolingual mothers. The study suggests that prenatal exposure to multiple languages may shape the fetus's auditory system, influencing its ability to process speech sounds at birth.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that declining childhood mortality has added a full year to women's lives. The study used mathematical modeling based on CDC data and estimated that the reduction in maternal bereavement adds one year, or about 6%, to life expectancy.
A study led by BCNatal and UPF found that growth-restricted fetuses have differences in lung vascular resistance, which can be normalized with extra oxygen. The research uses artificial intelligence techniques to analyze fetal blood flow and predicts the development of respiratory health problems later in life.
Between 2011 and 2021, more than 320,000 US children lost a parent due to drug overdose. The study highlights significant racial and ethnic disparities in the impact of parental loss on families and children.
A recent study found that breastfeeding mothers who use cannabis have detectable amounts of THC in their milk, even after 12 hours of abstinence. The amount of THC detected is low, but its impact on infants is unknown.
The number of male Oxbridge students from elite schools declined significantly by the middle of the twentieth century, according to a new study. In contrast, female students remained steady, with those from professional families increasing dramatically.