A recent study suggests steroid therapy during pregnancy can boost survival rates of preterm births in certain cases.  However, another study finds prenatal steroid treatment to address preterm birth may also contribute to psychological and neurosensory deficits in children as they age. A child born prior to 37 weeks is considered preterm.  Babies born far … Continued

A recent study suggests new moms and their babies may be at higher risk for receiving medical care intended for another patient. Electronic health records provide efficiencies, but also have challenges—especially in busy surgical settings like an emergency department or obstetric unit.  New research published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that erroneous medical orders are … Continued

To reduce rates of maternal and infant mortality, New Jersey is initiating voluntary wellness checks for families with newborn children. Despite its wealth, the US health system ranks last in the industrialized world for its attention to maternal and infant death. Overall, approximately 18 women die per 100,000 pregnancies. In some areas of the US … Continued

The findings of a large study point to the need to holistically evaluate the health of women of child-bearing age for factors that could put their children – and their own lives – in danger. Research published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology reveals a relationship between the health of a woman’s heart and … Continued

A subgaleal hematoma can be a life-threatening newborn complication following birth. Giving birth is a common event, yet no two births are exactly alike.  While parents may plan on natural childbirth, others anticipate a scheduled C-section. Few expectant couples understand how quickly dreams of a happy childhood and grown children can dissipate if complications arise … Continued

Recent studies published in the BMJ suggest that children of pregnant mothers who were prescribed opioids or antibiotics during pregnancy do not have a higher risk of suffering major birth defects. In recent years, studies have suggested babies who were exposed in utero to drugs prescribed for their mothers, like opioids or antibiotics, could lead … Continued

As the saying goes “A happy mom means happy baby.”  A recent study underscores the thought, revealing mom’s emotional state could mean a happier—and healthier – baby. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open took a look at whether there could be an association between psychological distress in mom and the developing neural networks … Continued

Researchers are developing a blood test that could help identify brain injury in babies who experience birth asphyxia during delivery. Asphyxia is a term used to describe a dangerous lack of oxygen that often causes brain injury.  Perinatal or birth asphyxia occurs during labor and at birth, as the name implies.  Causes of birth asphyxia … Continued

A new study suggests exposure to iodine in the NICU could put vulnerable infants with congenital hypothyroidism at risk for worsened thyroid dysfunction. As we discussed earlier, the butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your neck works ceaselessly throughout life to regulate metabolism, hormones, and other regulatory functions. For premature infants and newborns with congenital … Continued

Throughout pregnancy, women undergo a lot of change and a variety of tests. Based on results, treatment may, or may not, be initiated while the pregnancy is ongoing.  For those with subclinical hypothyroidism, a new study finds pregnant women may be overdiagnosed and overtreated. The small, butterfly-shaped thyroid gland that resides in the front of … Continued