Study Reveals Health Risks of Fire Retardants in Household Products
A recent study reveals alarming health risks associated with polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), commonly found in household items like couches and car seats. These fire retardants may disrupt hormones and lead to developmental issues in children. Research suggests that probiotics, particularly Limosilactobacillus reuteri, may help mitigate these effects. As awareness grows, consumers are encouraged to prioritize non-toxic products and consider dietary changes to improve health and safety.
Virtual Reality as Non-Pharmacological Method for Labor Pain and Anxiety
Discover how virtual reality (VR) is being explored as a non-pharmacological method for alleviating labor pain and anxiety among women in a recent study. Learn how techniques like heat packs, water immersion, massage, and acupressure are commonly used to enhance satisfaction and facilitate responsiveness to the birthing process. Find out how VR environments like tropical beaches and animal safaris are helping women manage labor pain and reduce anxiety, providing a distraction from the hospital setting and enhancing the overall birthing experience.
Calls for Radical Change in Maternity Services
The outcry for radical change in maternity services to better support mothers and babies is growing. Efforts to reform maternity care have been ongoing, with a push for women-centered care, increased role for midwives, and continuity of care. The success of the Albany Midwifery Practice in London highlights the positive outcomes of prioritizing women and midwives in care. Sustainable funding for such models is crucial to address midwife shortages and improve care quality.
Mother Battles Post-Partum Sepsis, Faces Amputations After Giving Birth to Twins
Read about Khedidja Teape’s harrowing battle with post-partum sepsis, leading to the amputation of her limbs after giving birth to twins. Despite the challenges, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing sepsis symptoms and expresses gratitude for being alive to care for her children.
Challenging the Traditional Narrative of Female Fertility After 35
Recent research challenges the traditional narrative of a sudden decline in female fertility after the age of 35. While there is a noticeable acceleration in the decline of egg quality and quantity after this age, the impact of age on fertility varies among individuals. Infertility becomes more likely as prospective parents grow older, but not conceiving within a year does not rule out the possibility of natural conception in the future. Assisted reproductive technologies also offer viable options for women in their late 30s, challenging the idea of a sudden and drastic decline in fertility at 35.
Increase in Preterm Birth Rates and Racial Disparities in the US
A recent analysis from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) has revealed a concerning trend in the United States – the rate of babies born prematurely has increased by 12% from 2014 to 2022, reaching nearly 8.7%. This analysis…
Challenges and Recommendations for Exercising During Pregnancy
Exercising during pregnancy has many benefits, but unfortunately, not many women do it. Less than 30% of pregnant women worldwide meet physical activity recommendations, while in developed countries, 45% to 55% of those who aren’t pregnant exercise regularly. Physical exercise…
Addressing the Global Issue of Postpartum Hemorrhage
After experiencing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) during the delivery of her first child, Lisa McCarty feared the same complication happening again. Her fears came true when she developed abdominal pain a week after giving birth to her second child, suspecting another…