Food-based vitamin D during pregnancy reduces allergies in children
Higher intake of foods containing vitamin D during pregnancy was associated with reduced risk of development of allergies in children, according to researchers. But, this
First trimester
Microcephaly birth defect rate surged after Zika outbreak in Brazil
Brazilian health ministry reported a rise in the number of newborn babies with uncommonly small heads – microcephaly, and suspect that the surge is linked
Folic acid in pregnancy lowers autism risk in baby
Folic acid supplements early in pregnancy may reduce child’s risk of autism by 40 percent — Large study in Norway finds early timing of folic acid supplements is critical – Prenatal folic acid supplements appear to reduce the risk for autistic spectrum disorders. It is estimated that about 1 in 88 children in the U.S. have been identified with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Qsymia approved for chronic weight management
U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Qsymia (phentermine and topiramate extended-release) as an addition to a reduced-calorie diet and exercise for chronic weight management – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Qsymia (phentermine and topiramate extended-release) as an addition to a reduced-calorie diet and exercise for chronic weight management.
Malaria during pregnancy first trimester – antimalarial is safe
Malaria during pregnancy: New study assesses risks during first trimester — Antimalarial drugs safer for pregnant women than disease – The malaria disease significantly increases the risk of miscarriage, but that treating with antimalarial drugs is relatively safe and reduces this risk in pregnant women expecting their new born babies.
IUD following abortion likely to prevent unintended pregnancy
Immediate use of an IUD following abortion more likely to prevent unintended pregnancies — Study finds women who are asked to make an appointment for a later date may not return, are at higher risk for another unintended pregnancy – Immediate use of any contraceptive method after abortion has been linked to a reduced risk of repeat abortion with the immediate use of an IUD being the most effective method for reducing the risk for another unintended pregnancy. IUDs are found safe and highly effective.
Widespread use of medications among pregnant women
Researchers report widespread use of medications among pregnant women – There is widespread and increasing medication use among pregnant women, revealed by researchers from Boston University’s Slone Epidemiology Center, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Harvard School of Public Health,
Antidepressants in pregnancy increase miscarriage risk
Antidepressants in pregnancy increase risk of miscarriage – There is a 68% increase in the overall risk of miscarriage in pregnant women using antidepressants, found a new study in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
Alcohol in pregnancy leads to child behavior problems
New study links alcohol in pregnancy to child behavior problems – Amount and timing of alcohol consumption in pregnancy affects child behaviour in different ways, revealed by Australian researchers.
Ultrasound enhances noninvasive Down syndrome tests
Ultrasound enhances noninvasive Down syndrome tests – The addition of a “genetic sonogram” maximizes the accuracy of non-invasive testing for Down syndrome, revealed by US researchers.