Research on mothers' health, family life, and parenting. Covers maternal wellbeing, vaccination questions, marriage and relationships, and breastfeeding.
A survey of low-income single mothers in Atlantic Canada found that 78% experienced food insecurity and reported poorer nutrition than their children. The study highlights the need for policy reforms to address income inequality and ensure access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations.
A postnatal home-visiting service for teenage mothers aged under 18 years was shown to reduce adverse health outcomes of their children, including infant deaths and foster care placements. Home visits also increased mothers' contraceptive use, but not breastfeeding or vaccination knowledge.
A study by sociologists at the University of Bristol found that young women in their 20s and 30s tend to hold traditional views on family life. Many prioritize motherhood and a close relationship with their mothers, even if they have career aspirations. The researchers also identified four distinct career patterns among young adults: '...
A new study finds that children in low-income families are not harmed when their mothers leave welfare and enter the workforce. The research also suggests that mothers' entry into the labor force is related to improvements in adolescents' mental health, while exits from employment are linked to increased behavior problems.
Researchers identified sFlt1 as the root cause of preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage. The study's findings hold promise for developing diagnostic tools and therapies for this deadly condition.
A new study finds that breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates remained unchanged despite policy changes in hospital length of stay, including a single overnight stay program and a 48-hour coverage mandate. The study suggests that these changes did not harm breastfeeding practices and may even have improved them.
Adolescents with two smoking parents are 3.8 times more likely to smoke than those with both non-smoking parents. Quitting smoking by parents can reduce the likelihood of their adolescent smoking, especially when both parents are non-smokers.
A recent survey found that most people attribute premature births to individual mothers' behaviors rather than systemic issues. More research is needed to determine how to prevent premature births and address the root causes of this issue.
A study of Danish data found that mothers who experienced a child's death were 40% more likely to die within 18 years compared to those with alive children. Fathers also faced increased mortality risk, but to a lesser extent.
A recent study by Dr. Michelle A. Miller-Day found that 70% of adolescents prefer discussing important topics with their mothers. The study, which surveyed 67 African-American and White teens aged 11-17, suggests that teenagers are more likely to confide in their mothers about drug use and extend those conversations to their peer groups.
A study by Tel Aviv University and the University of Haifa found that massage therapy helps infants develop a more aligned circadian system with their mothers' night-day cycle. After 14 days of bedtime massage therapy, infants in the treatment group showed improved sleep coordination, with peak activity during early morning hours.
Children in physical joint-custody arrangements with no parental conflict exhibit fewer behavioral problems compared to single-parent custody. However, frequent disagreements between former spouses can lead to negative emotional responses and behavior issues in children.
A study by Purdue economist William Masters found that African mothers are willing to pay a premium of 30% for infant food with guaranteed quality and safety information. This could lead to reduced child malnutrition rates if generic options were made available, saving up to 6 million lives annually.
A new study by UCLA researchers found that Rh-incompatible mothers are more than twice as likely to have children with schizophrenia. The study mapped genetic data from 181 Finnish families and discovered a significant link between the RHD gene and schizophrenia risk.
Researchers found that living in a female-headed family at age 14, having low self-esteem, and poor verbal/math skills predicted depressive symptoms in young adulthood. The study also highlighted the need to disentangle women's marital status from their age at first birth.
The study reveals striking differences in employment rates across Europe, with Greece having ten times more people working in agriculture than the UK. Non-working households are common in many EU countries, but married women's employment rates do not affect this trend.
A study of 189 older mothers (60+ years) found they are most ambivalent towards adult children who don't achieve financial independence. The mothers reported closer relationships with their daughters, but also the most conflict, as they require more emotional support.
Researchers found that infants can distinguish between their own name and another name linked with a word, recognizing 'bike' but not 'cup'. This ability is crucial for learning word meanings and patterns.
Research found that prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to insecurity in children, but a mother's emotional supportiveness can mitigate this effect. Children of moderate-heavy drinkers who had supportive mothers developed better coping skills than those without such support.
A study by Aysan Sev'er explores the experiences of 39 women who escaped abusive relationships, revealing key findings about resilience, support networks, and the importance of self-respect. The book provides a model for coping strategies that can help survivors rebuild their lives.
A 6-year study found that preventive sessions for mothers and children after divorce reduced mental health problems by 50% and improved behavior. The sessions led to fewer acts of aggression, drug and alcohol use, and promiscuity among teens.
A recent study found that programs for children of divorce can have a positive impact on their long-term adjustment. The research, which followed 240 families over six years, showed that adolescents whose mothers attended parenting classes had fewer behavioral problems and reported fewer mental health issues.
Researchers found that black single mothers in rural Georgia with good self-esteem and optimism implemented effective parenting practices, leading to higher levels of self-regulation in their children. This resulted in better academic performance, social skills, and reduced delinquency.
A study found that black single mothers in rural Georgia who had high self-esteem and optimism implemented good parenting practices, such as open discussions and supervision. These factors were linked to their children developing good self-regulation, which predicted performing well in school and handling social situations well.
A new study confirms that cat exposure increases the risk of persistent wheezing and asthma in children whose mothers have asthma. In contrast, exposure to cats is protective for children without a family history of asthma, reducing the risk of wheezing by 40%.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that teens who feel close to their mothers are less likely to start having sex. The study also suggests that parents' awareness of their teens' sex lives is frequently inaccurate.
Archaeologists discovered a 900-year-old square hilltop village in Illinois that contradicts previous understanding of Cahokian settlements. The village had a rigid orientation and large central residence with religious structures, sparking questions about its purpose as a farming village or administrative outpost.
A study of pregnant women found that those consuming high levels of DHA during pregnancy had infants with more mature sleep patterns, characterized by lower active to quiet sleep ratios and less sleep-wake transition time. Breastfed infants also showed improved neurological development compared to formula-fed infants.
Research reveals a decline in childcare support for parents, particularly women, from the late 19th century to the end of the 20th century. The study highlights changes in family dynamics, including increased residential independence and declining household income.
A study by Mark King and Andrew Cherlin reveals that 22% of low-income children have involved surrogate fathers who take on daily childcare responsibilities. The most significant predictor of this phenomenon is the mother's union status and age, with single mothers and young mothers more likely to have relative surrogate fathers.
Researchers have created a prototype, Activity Compass, that uses sensors and GPS to monitor daily routines and provide prompts. The device aims to help patients maintain independence and reduce emotional burnout on caregivers.
A study of 65 women who experienced stillbirth found that those who saw their dead baby were more likely to develop depression and anxiety. Women who did not see their stillborn child had lower rates of mental health issues, suggesting that forcing mothers to confront their loss may be counterproductive.
A new study found that mothers of children born via surrogacy arrangements show warmth and emotional involvement, similar to those in naturally conceived families. Both parents also exhibit better parenting skills, while the babies' temperament remains unchanged.
A world-first study reveals that solo mothers opting for donor insemination are coping well and their children are functioning normally. Despite initial controversy surrounding single women's access to DI, the research shows no difference in parenting quality or child behavior between solo and married mothers.
A new study of 59 chronically ill children reveals that well-adjusted and supportive mothers are less likely to experience depression in their children. Children with stable caregiver relationships tend to cope better with chronic pain, suggesting early interventions for struggling caregivers could benefit the entire family.
A long-term pediatric AIDS study of over 500 children reveals that cardiac abnormalities may persist in infants born to HIV-positive mothers. The study found that both infected and uninfected children had higher left ventricle mass and lower contractility, but differences dissipated over time.
A new study suggests that the placenta produces high levels of progesterone to interact with the sigma receptor, which disables the mother's immune system. This mechanism allows the fetus to survive without being rejected by the mother's immune system.
In Eastern Cameroon, many children live with an uncle and aunt due to divorce. Adoptive families benefit from the arrangement, as adoptive children cannot be lost in a divorce. Women have little difficulty forming bonds with their brothers' children, who remain with them after a divorce.
Dr. Johnston's research focuses on reducing infant pain in preterm babies, finding skin-to-skin contact and sugar administration can be effective soothing methods. She also coaches pediatric nurses and promotes a pain awareness campaign to improve treatment options for infants and their families.
A Canadian study divided physicians into low-, medium- and high-volume groups and found no significant differences in maternal complications or newborn outcomes. Family physicians in lower volumes were more likely to consult obstetricians and perform inductions.
A recent international study revealed that teenage drug abuse is significantly lower for those living with both parents and enjoying high-quality family relationships. The study found that having a strong attachment to the mother was particularly effective in preventing drug use, even in areas of high peer pressure.
Researchers have discovered a significant link between low birth weight and mitochondrial DNA passed from mothers to offspring. This finding suggests that genetics play a substantial role in determining birth weight, and may also contribute to adult illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.
A recent study has found that parental smoking around the time of conception is associated with a reduction in male births. The research suggests that exposure to cigarette smoke may affect sperm cells carrying the Y-chromosome, leading to lower male to female sex ratios. Smoking was found to impact sex ratios even when only the mother...
A new study shows that problem-solving skills training can help mothers of children with serious illness reduce their emotional distress and improve their well-being. The training also boosts their sense of well-being, increasing positive rational thinking and constructive behaviors.
Women need active mentoring to realize their strengths and potential for career advancement. Flexible work arrangements and policies that support working mothers are also crucial. Companies that prioritize these aspects can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
A study suggests that a high intake of DHA may reduce the risk of postpartum depression. Babies who receive sufficient levels of DHA also benefit from improved neurological development. The American Chemical Society research aims to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition for mothers and their babies.
A recent study found that 26% of preschool children lived in three-generation households, with 39% having a history of maltreatment. The research also revealed that 32% of the young mothers were depressed. As these young mothers mature, role conflicts may arise between being a teenage daughter and a young mother.
A population study found that hypospadias was more than 20 times as common in boys whose mothers were exposed to DES during pregnancy. Research on exposure to DES may be relevant to current concerns about weaker oestrogens in oral contraceptives and other substances.
A recent study found that postpartum fatigue is significantly linked to postpartum depression, with women reporting symptoms after just 28 days, highlighting the need for screening tools and self-care support
A recent survey of over 500 first-time mothers found that 35% experienced urinary incontinence and 4% suffered from faecal incontinence. The study suggests that damage to the pelvic floor may occur during pregnancy as well as childbirth, highlighting the need for improved maternity care.
A study found that alcohol consumption during the third trimester of pregnancy alters thyroid function in both mothers and fetuses, which could lead to brain defects. The researchers used sheep as a model and administered varying doses of alcohol to pregnant ewes, resulting in altered thyroid hormone levels in both mother and fetus.
A randomized controlled trial found that peer support significantly increased breast-feeding rates among primiparous women. At 4, 8, and 12 weeks postpartum, mothers in the peer-support group had higher breast-feeding rates than those in regular care, with 92.4% vs. 83.9%, 84.8% vs. 75.0%, and 81.1% vs. 66.9%, respectively.
Research suggests a link between genetic variation in the ADH2 gene and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) prevalence. The study found that individuals with the ADH2*2 allele had a lower risk of FAS, suggesting potential protection against fetal alcohol exposure.
Researchers at Ohio State University recommend using lower doses of penicillin during labor to protect newborns from group B strep infections. A study found that a single dose of 0.5 grams provides sufficient protection against sepsis, potentially reducing antibiotic resistance.
A study found that mothers who perceive their small babies as difficult are less involved and responsive, leading to lower developmental test scores. However, infants born small for gestational age show a stronger link between early temperament and parental behavior, emphasizing the importance of sensitive interaction.
A new study found that children from poor families with depressed mothers experience delays in cognitive and motor development, while middle-class households offer some protection. The effects of maternal depression on boys and girls differ, with moderate depression in affluent families resulting in lower cognitive scores.
A study led by Drs. Eva S. Lefkowitz and Karen Fingerman found that middle-aged women take charge in conversations with their aging mothers, using positive language to maintain good relationships. The researchers recorded 46 mother-daughter pairs and discovered a low level of negativity in their interactions.
Researchers found that the number of affected relatives is a stronger predictor of breast cancer risk than the age at diagnosis. Women with one or two affected relatives have significantly higher lifetime incidence rates (7.8% and 13.3%, respectively), while those with three affected relatives face the highest risk (21.1%).
A systematic review of 11 studies from sub-Saharan Africa found that 75% of women underwent caesarean sections for maternal reasons, with prolonged labour and placental abruption being common causes. The authors suggest a need for improved obstetric guidelines to reduce mortality rates.
Women who underwent vaginal instrumental delivery had a lower risk of serious bleeding and trauma compared to those who received caesarean section. The study supports the use of safe vaginal instrumental delivery for managing obstructed labour, especially in cases without clear evidence of disproportion.