Pregnancy and Birth

New data from a large, multicenter, randomized trial are now available regarding the effectiveness of endometrial scratching for improving live birth rate with in vitro fertilization.

To address limitations in previous literature on associations between ART and worse perinatal outcomes in offspring, researchers from Finland analyzed potentially harmful effects of ART using a sibling-comparison model approach. PLUS: Consumer and personal care products and BP in pregnancy. ALSO: How can racial disparities in breastfeeding be reduced in the American South?

Misdiagnosis is not uncommon but when faced with a bad situation there are steps that an ob/gyn can take to limit the damages.

Although human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination has decreased cervical cancer morbidity and mortality, secondary prevention through screening remains an important strategy. PLUS: Does being black influence hysterectomy route and outcomes? ALSO: Syphilis in pregnancy on the rise.

In this Medical News Minute, Dr. Bobby Lazzara discusses the findings from a recent study designed to assess state specific prevalence of neuroaxial analgesia and the variability of neuroaxial analgesia among states.

Two years after its bipartisan introduction, HR 1318 is now law. PLUS: Uterine transplantation from deceased donor results in livebirth. ALSO: Research has shown that route of delivery has an effect on the microbiome of newborns.

Women with behavioral conditions need ongoing care through pregnancy and postpartum, but our health care system makes this a challenge

This month's quiz goes over the steps ob/gyns can take to lessen the likelihood of vaginal birth complications that were discussed in the article, "How to minimize vaginal birth complications" by Bob Kronemeyer (September 2018).

In a lawsuit involving both mother and infant, allegations of infertility from a D&C were also included.

This summary of SMFM Consult Series #46 reviews major considerations in evaluation and management of polyhydramnios.

As rates of VTE in pregnancy are increasing in the United States, ob/gyns must be vigilant in identifying women at risk and promptly instituting measures recommended by ACOG and other organizations

Results of a population-based study provide new perspectives on the interaction between spacing of pregnancies, maternal age, and the health of mothers and their offspring. PLUS: How do pessaries compare with progesterone for preventing early PTB? ALSO: Opioid abuse in rural mothers and babies - What are the risks?

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV in the United States can be eliminated with the help of obstetricians. Test your knowledge and ability to care for HIV patients.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are among the leading contributors to maternal mortality worldwide. Test your knowledge and ability to recognize signs in a patient.

Recent studies underscore the benefits of induction at 39 weeks in healthy nulliparas but the decision to deliver should remain up to the mother.

Expert commentary on ACOG's interim update, which focuses on a comprehensive approach and more conservative guidelines to avoid the potential for misdiagnosis. 

A recent study looked at which approach to second-stage labor results in higher spontaneous vaginal delivery rates and lower rates of maternal and neonatal complications. PLUS: What makes hospitals safe for mothers and babies? ALSO: Does eating meat increase risk for breast cancer?

Every year, nearly all of the 6 million women who get pregnant in the US will take medication while they are pregnant or breastfeeding, but this population often is excluded from clinical research. PLUS: Do contemporary hormonal contraceptives reduce ovarian cancer risk? ALSO: Are breastfeeding intentions associated with infant health?

Cesarean section is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in the US. This quiz goes over some of the important takeaways on the issues covered in Drs. Eric A. Strand and Shelby M. Dickison's article, Cesarean sections - based on the evidence (April, 2018).

Cesarean section is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in the US. This quiz goes over some of the important takeaways on the issues covered in Drs. Eric A. Strand and Shelby M. Dickison's article, Cesarean sections - based on the evidence (April, 2018).

Babies born preterm are known to be at risk of alterations in brain structure and connectivity, but new research shows exposure to breastmilk may have cognitive benefits. PLUS: What’s behind postpartum opioid prescribing patterns? ALSO: How valuable is a second opinion for breast cancer diagnosis?

State policies targeting drug and alcohol use during pregnancy have increased in number and have become more punitive, but findings show that these policies may not encourage women to seek the needed care.

There are several concrete steps clinicians can take to lessen the likelihood of vaginal birth complications, whether stemming from shoulder dystocia, a second twin or vaginal breech.

The first-ever guidelines for perimenopausal depression have been developed by The North American Menopause Society and the National Network on Depression Centers Women and Mood Disorders Task Group. PLUS: Are female sterilization rates and cognitive disability linked? ALSO: How does delivery mode in twin pregnancies impact maternal morbidity rates?

Cardiovascular disease is one the leading causes of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy. This quiz goes over some of the important takeaways on the issues covered in Dr. Beth Brickner's article, Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in pregnancy (January, 2018) .