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First Nations women face almost twice the risk of stillbirth compared to non-First Nations women. Much of the inequity can be linked to the ongoing impact of colonisation on birthing women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cases of infectious syphilis have risen sharply in the last decade, including in women in their reproductive years. That can lead to stillbirth, miscarriage or disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the need for the Catholic Church to provide better support for families experiencing perinatal loss. Topics include the commonality of miscarriage and stillbirth the lack of pastoral support and understanding from the church, and the evolving expectations of bereaved families for acknowledgment and accompaniment in their grief.

This document is a poem titled "Je suis en train" by Sylvia Manning, published in the journal "Waterways" in December 2023. The poem explores themes of despair, identity, and the power of regeneration. The speaker expresses a desire to be born again as a woman and criticizes societal issues such as violence and oppression. The poem also mentions the Sisterhood of Sleeping Car Attendants and their beauty and patience. The speaker reflects on the importance of listening and responding responsibly to the warnings of destruction. The poem concludes with a mention of riding on the Crescent train with Cassandra and the Sisterhood, acknowledging the shabbiness of the train due to the allocation of taxes for killing rather than maintaining the railways. The poem ends with a plea for forgiveness and a statement of being "en train," or in progress. The document was written on November 22, 2023, in Seguin, Texas. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Woman's Own discusses a storyline from the television show Coronation Street. The focus is on Toyah, a character who is grieving the loss of her stillborn baby girl. She is surprised when Rowan, who she recently had a conflict with, shows up at the funeral. Later, Toyah finds comfort in the arms of Nick, not realizing that someone is watching them. The article leaves readers wondering who has witnessed their moment of passion. [Extracted from the article]

Pregnant patients with Class III obesity are at an increased risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality, as well as delivering by cesarean section. It has been postulated that the risk of caesarean section within this group is increased due to dysfunctional labour resulting from excess adipose tissue in the maternal pelvis which narrows the birth canal, failure to progress in the first or second stage of labor, and decreased responsiveness to oxytocin. There is even a higher risk of antepartum and intrapartum stillbirth among this population of patients. Whether patients with Class III obesity are to be routinely offered a cesarean section or may be allowed a trial of labor is still debateable. Preoperative planning with a multidisciplinary team is the first important step in ensuring safety. For the purpose of this article, we endeavor to discuss the ideal operating room setup for patients with Class III obesity who undergo cesarean delivery to allow for safety and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Oropouche virus, responsible for a significant outbreak in Brazil, has been found to be transmissible from a pregnant woman to her fetus, leading to stillbirths and deaths. Brazil has reported over 8,000 cases of Oropouche fever this year, with symptoms including fever, chills, joint pain, and severe headaches. The virus is primarily spread by biting flies, but there is also evidence of potential sexual transmission, as the virus was found in a man's semen 16 days after symptoms began. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the College of Public Health at the University of Georgia revealed that 5.7 percent of pregnant women in the United States reported using marijuana during the last month of their pregnancy. The study highlighted the potential adverse effects of prenatal marijuana use, including low birth weight, premature birth, and long-term neurodevelopmental complications. The authors emphasized the importance of educating clinicians and providing clear messaging about the risks associated with marijuana use during pregnancy, especially in states where medical marijuana is legal. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a clinical trial, NCT06627335, focusing on assessing infant outcomes of women with Atopic Dermatitis (AD) exposed to ruxolitinib cream versus topical corticosteroids during pregnancy. The study aims to compare the effects of these treatments on pregnancy outcomes, including major congenital malformations and small-for-gestational age births. The trial is observational in nature, with a recruitment status of "RECRUITING" and an enrollment target of 5621 participants, with completion expected by August 15, 2028. The study is being conducted in the United States and is sponsored by Incyte Corporation. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses seven case reports of patients who experienced various toxicities while being treated with pembrolizumab, nivolumab, or ipilimumab for melanoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, or non-small cell lung cancer during pregnancy or in-utero exposure. The toxicities included antiphospholipid syndrome, pneumonitis, thyroiditis, autoimmune hepatitis, ketoacidosis, hypophagia, neonatal respiratory syndrome, congenital hypothyroidism, hand malformation, fetal distress, retinopathy, stroke, respiratory distress, and motor developmental delay. Some patients experienced spontaneous abortion or stillbirth. These case reports highlight the potential risks and complications associated with these drugs during pregnancy or in-utero exposure. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Medway NHS Foundation Trust highlights the potential impact of universal screening for vasa previa in the prevention of stillbirths. The researchers utilized birth and stillbirth data from nine developed countries to estimate the number of pregnancies complicated by vasa previa and the potential preventable stillbirths associated with undiagnosed cases. The study suggests that prenatal diagnosis and prevention of vasa previa could potentially reduce 4-5% of stillbirths. The findings emphasize the importance of universal screening for vasa previa. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Texas McGovern Medical School compared maternal and neonatal outcomes between labor induction and cesarean delivery (CD) without labor in nulliparous individuals with class III obesity. The study included 308 participants, with 81% undergoing labor induction and 19% having a CD without labor. The most common indications for CD without labor were fetal malpresentation, suspected macrosomia, and previous myomectomy. The study found that the rates of composite maternal morbidity and composite neonatal morbidity did not differ significantly between the two groups. The researchers concluded that among nulliparous individuals with class III obesity at term, the rate of short-term maternal and neonatal morbidity did not differ between labor induction and CD without labor. [Extracted from the article]

Vernon Maxwell recounts hitting a fan who had made disgusting comments about his stillborn daughter after security refused to take action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology aimed to examine the impact of the ARRIVE trial on stillbirth rates in nulliparous individuals. The study analyzed data from the National Vital Statistics Online and compared outcomes between the pre- and post-ARRIVE periods. The researchers found that the post-ARRIVE period did not show a significant decrease in the risk of stillbirth, but it was associated with increased rates of induction of labor. The study concluded that the increase in induction of labor was not large enough to impact the stillbirth rate. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Institute of Child Health examined the concept of brain sparing in the context of maternal infection, specifically focusing on cases of maternal syphilis and influenza during the early 20th century in Lausanne, Switzerland. The researchers analyzed birth records from 1911 to 1922 and found that infants exposed to syphilis experienced a greater reduction in head circumference compared to birth weight, while infants exposed to influenza had similar reductions in both. Stillborn infants exposed to syphilis had a significantly larger reduction in head circumference. The study concluded that the brain sparing hypothesis was not supported, and the reduction in head circumference among syphilis-exposed fetuses may contribute to stillbirths. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Cihan University in Iraq has found that stillbirths remain a significant public health concern in the region, with 11.7 stillbirths occurring for every 1000 deliveries. The study focused on the impact of fetal gender and delivery method on stillbirth rates. The results showed that for fetal males, vaginal delivery reduced the stillbirth rate by 4.2% and the cesarean section rate by 3.6%, while for fetal females, vaginal delivery reduced the stillbirth rate by 4.7% and the cesarean section rate by 6%. The study suggests that healthcare in the region should prioritize reducing stillbirths by considering factors such as fetal gender and delivery mode. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on epidemiology research from Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health on the association between short-term increases in particulate matter (PM2.5) and temperature exposures with stillbirth, highlighting racial/ethnic disparities among Medicaid recipients. Topics discussed include the marginal association of PM2.5 with stillbirth odds, particularly among Black individuals, and increased vulnerability in lower socioeconomic status (SES) areas.

A young couple from Aheri taluka in India were forced to carry the bodies of their two dead sons, who died from a fever, from a hospital to their village home 15 km away. The parents did not receive proper treatment for their sons in time, and there was no ambulance available to transport the bodies. This incident highlights the inadequate healthcare system in Gadchiroli, and has sparked outrage on social media. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in the United Kingdom analyzed the prevalence and patterns of antidepressant prescribing during pregnancy. The study found that the use of antidepressants during pregnancy has increased from 3.2% in 1996 to 13.4% in 2018. Most women discontinued antidepressant use at some point during pregnancy, but many resumed after giving birth. Factors such as younger age, previous stillbirth, and higher deprivation were associated with more frequent discontinuation of antidepressants during pregnancy. This study provides valuable insights into the trends and characteristics of antidepressant prescribing in and around pregnancy in the UK. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Woman's Day (Australia Edition) discusses the romantic relationships of several farmers featured on the show "Farmer Wants A Wife." It reveals that Farmer Joe Bobbin and Sarah Carey have recently split, with rumors of cheating being a contributing factor. Claire Saunders is also moving back home after tensions with her farmer fiance Andrew Coleman's family. Krissy Smith accuses Farmer Tom Boyer of being dishonest and disrespectful. However, there are also positive updates, as Todd Melbourne and Daisy Lamb are still together and planning a future together, as are Dustin Manwaring and Sophie Trethowan. [Extracted from the article]

Scientists fear reports of the first human deaths from Oropouche fever and potential stillbirths or birth defects from infections during pregnancy signal a new and deadlier form of the insect-borne virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new study on preeclampsia has been published by researchers at the Pathology Unit. The study focuses on the development of the placenta and its role in ensuring a successful pregnancy. Issues with placental development can lead to various pregnancy disorders, such as recurrent miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia, and stillbirth. The study discusses the molecular mechanisms involved in embryo implantation and the abnormalities that contribute to the development of pre-eclampsia, as well as the histological hallmarks of the condition. For more information, readers can refer to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Guangzhou Medical University examined the association between the severity of intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy (ICP) and adverse outcomes. The researchers collected data from a cohort of 1,289 pregnant individuals and conducted a meta-analysis of prior studies. The results showed that higher levels of bile acids were correlated with preterm birth and preterm premature rupture of membranes. The severity of ICP was also associated with increased risks of stillbirth, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, and meconium-stained fluid. The study provides new threshold levels for bile acids and highlights the importance of monitoring and managing ICP during pregnancy. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have conducted a study on the narratives of Jewish-Israeli women who have experienced stillbirths. The study explores how these women contest societal expectations that dictate a quick return to pregnancy after a stillbirth. The research highlights the importance of granting attention to stillbirth as a meaningful and painful event, and the need for alternative forms of remembering and caring for stillborn babies. This study contributes to the understanding of reproductive life and the social distribution of care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses the findings of a pilot population-based surveillance system in Italy regarding stillbirths. The study analyzed data on stillbirths collected from three Italian regions from July 2017 to June 2019. The research identified risk factors for stillbirth, including foreign citizenship, multiple pregnancies, and pregnancies conceived with assisted reproductive technologies. The study also highlighted the importance of implementing surveillance systems to identify avoidable risk factors and improve perinatal assistance. [Extracted from the article]

"Design & Desire" is an autobiography by Keith Helfet, the designer of the Jaguar XJ220. The book explores Helfet's career, which began with his passion for cars and led him to study design and eventually work at Jaguar under the mentorship of Sir William Lyons. The autobiography is filled with over 160 images, many from Helfet's personal archive, and covers his work on various projects, including the XJ41, XK180, and the creation of the XJ220. This book provides valuable insight into Helfet's perspective and is highly recommended for those interested in automotive design. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Johns Hopkins University examined trends in stillbirth rates and risk factors in the United States from 2000 to 2017. The study found that stillbirth rates declined between 2000 and 2006 but have remained relatively flat since then. There were significant improvements in stillbirth rates at 39+ weeks gestation, but rates varied between and within states. The study also identified various risk factors for stillbirth, including sociodemographic factors, obstetric factors, and pregnancy and fetal factors. The findings suggest the need for targeted prevention strategies and further research into the causes of stillbirths. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Baylor University College of Medicine examined the impact of social determinants of health (SDoH) risk factors on stillbirth among pregnancy-related hospitalizations in the United States. The study analyzed data from delivery-related hospital discharges between 2016 and 2017 and found that pregnancies with SDoH risk factors had a 60% higher risk of stillbirth compared to those without. The study identified occupational risk, upbringing, and primary support group and family as the SDoH issues with the most significant risk for stillbirth. The researchers suggest that future studies should focus on strategies to reduce these modifiable SDoH risk factors. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the challenges of collecting accurate data on stillbirths and perinatal mortality rates in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). National surveys are the primary source of data, but issues such as under-reporting and misreporting have limited their usefulness. The report proposes data quality metrics and adjustment procedures to improve the accuracy of mortality data in surveys. By analyzing data from 157 demographic and health surveys from 53 LMICs, the researchers found discrepancies in reporting, with many surveys underestimating stillbirths and early neonatal deaths. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive assessment and adjustment of data to effectively reduce stillbirths and early neonatal mortality. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the University of Utah Health examined the potential use of Delta-like homolog 1 (DLK1) as a biomarker for placental insufficiency in stillbirth and live birth cases. The researchers analyzed maternal sera from a multicenter case-control study and used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure DLK1 levels. The study found that while there was a significant difference in DLK1 levels between preterm cases and controls, low DLK1 levels were not associated with stillbirth. This research provides valuable insights into the potential use of DLK1 as a biomarker for placental insufficiency. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators at Yale University School of Medicine examined the delivery management of patients with antepartum stillbirth. The researchers analyzed data from fetal death certificates and maternal hospital discharge records to identify a population-based sample of patients with singleton antepartum stillbirth. The study found that over one in six patients with antepartum stillbirth underwent cesarean delivery, and among patients who attempted labor, the rate of vaginal delivery was generally high. The researchers concluded that there may be an opportunity to increase vaginal delivery in this population. [Extracted from the article]

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by the Department of Midwifery examined the effect of maternal age on stillbirth in Africa. The study found that advanced maternal age (35 years and older) is a risk factor for stillbirth. The research included 14 articles and reported an overall odds ratio of 1.42 for advanced maternal age compared to the age group of 20-35 years. The authors recommend that health information communication regarding the risk of getting pregnant at advanced ages should be addressed to all women of reproductive age group. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Department of Pediatrics and Child Health focused on the successful separation of conjoined twins, one of whom was stillborn. The twins were joined at the lower chest and upper abdomen and had fused livers, which were successfully separated during the operation. The surviving twin experienced sepsis and received treatment before being discharged after a six-week hospital stay. The research emphasizes the importance of urgent separation in cases where one twin is stillborn, even in settings with limited diagnostic and surgical capabilities. The study was conducted at Soroti Regional Referral Hospital in Uganda. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University Medical Center Ljubljana in Slovenia aimed to explore the genetic variation in stillbirth cases that remained unexplained after thorough examination. The researchers analyzed the genetic makeup of 55 stillbirth cases and identified six rare genetic variants in genes associated with cardiac-related phenotypes. However, these variants are still considered of uncertain significance. The study highlights the need for international collaboration and standardization in order to advance our understanding of the genetics of unexplained fetal death. [Extracted from the article]

In pig breeding, performance improvements have been achieved in recent years, leading to a higher number of reared piglets. However, this can result in longer farrowing durations and an increasing proportion of stillborn piglets. To counteract these problems, metabolic support during birth is necessary for high-performing sows. Optimal supply of vitamin D_3 is of great importance in this regard. The direct addition of the metabolite 25-OH-D_3 as an alternative to supplementing synthetic vitamin D_3 in sow feed has proven to be promising. In a practical trial, it was shown that the use of 25-OH-D_3 can lead to a higher number of live-born piglets and a shortened duration of birth. The use of 25-OH-D_3 in sow feed can result in improved calcium supply and thus lead to easier and smoother births. In a practical test, it was found that the use of 25-OH-D_3 in feed led to a faster progress of birth and a quicker expulsion of the placenta. There was also a tendency towards a higher number of live-born piglets. Therefore, the use of 25-OH-D_3 in feed is an interesting approach to improve profitability and animal welfare in sows. [Extracted from the article]

A photo of conjoined fawns that was posted on social media sites is real and rare, according to wildlife researchers. The fawns were found in Minnesota in 2016 and were frozen for a necropsy. The fawns had two heads and two spinal columns, but externally appeared normal. Internally, they had shared organs and were stillborn. This is the first known birth of conjoined fawns, with only 19 confirmed cases of conjoined twins in wild animals between 1671 and 2006. The fawns are now mounted and displayed at the Minnesota DNR headquarters and the University of Minnesota Veterinary Anatomy Museum. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses miscarriages and stillbirths and grieving strategies following these incidences. Topics include grief therapy strategies such as counseling for parents who have had miscarriages, changes in emphasizing treatment of the emotional impact of a miscarriage, and the experiences of real estate agent Liz Abele and college student Octavia Monroe with their miscarriages and their grief therapy strategies.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Porto in Portugal has found that certain markers in the syncytiotrophoblast cells of the placenta are downregulated in cases of idiopathic stillbirths. The syncytiotrophoblast cells are responsible for the transfer of nutrients between the mother and the fetus, as well as hormone production. The researchers compared placental samples from live births, stillbirths with a known cause, and idiopathic stillbirths, and identified 15 genes that were commonly downregulated in the idiopathic stillbirth group. These findings suggest that defects in the syncytial layer of the placenta may contribute to unexplained stillbirths and could potentially improve obstetrics practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Bamenda Regional Hospital in Cameroon aimed to determine the stillbirth rate and associated factors in the North-West region. The study found that the stillbirth rate was 8.9 per 1000 live births. Factors associated with stillbirth included nulliparity, not attending antenatal care, history of stillbirth, placental abruption, hypertensive disorder in pregnancy, malaria, alcohol consumption, birth weight less than 2500 g, and congenital malformations. The researchers recommend close antenatal care follow-up for women with these associated factors. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from West China Second University Hospital discusses the management of umbilical artery thrombosis (UAT) in the third trimester of pregnancy. UAT is a rare complication that can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. The report describes a case where UAT was detected through routine ultrasonography, and expectant management with intensive monitoring was employed for four days before an emergency cesarean section was performed. Both the mother and newborn underwent long-term follow-up and are currently in good health. The report emphasizes the importance of considering gestational age and fetal intrauterine status when managing UAT and highlights the need for comprehensive monitoring and patient education. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Western Sydney University discusses the high levels of anxiety, fear, and depression experienced by women who are pregnant after a stillbirth. The report highlights the lack of evidence on interventions or approaches to care that could benefit these women. The researchers propose a feasibility trial called HOPES, which aims to evaluate the use of massage therapy as an adjunct approach to care for pregnant women who have experienced a previous stillbirth. The trial will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the massage intervention, as well as collect data on anxiety, worry, stress, and self-management. The study is ongoing and aims to provide preliminary evidence for massage therapy as a support intervention for women in this situation. [Extracted from the article]

A pilot study was conducted to explore the feasibility of dynamically predicting adverse outcomes in pregnancies following stillbirth or perinatal death. The study used a retrospective cohort of women at a tertiary hospital between 2014 and 2019. The findings showed that the ability to predict adverse outcomes improved as the pregnancy progressed, supporting the proof-of-concept for dynamic prediction. The study highlights the need for further large-scale model development studies and acknowledges the methodological challenges involved. This preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Curtin University in Perth, Australia examined the risk of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) following stillbirths compared to live births. The study used a population-based dataset of stillbirths and live births between 2000 and 2015 in Western Australia. The results showed that mothers of stillbirths, both with and without comorbidities, had an increased risk of SMM compared to live births. The researchers concluded that further investigation is needed to understand why women who have had a stillbirth without existing conditions or pregnancy complications develop SMM. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) discusses the impact of a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stove and fuel intervention on pregnancy outcomes. The study, conducted in Guatemala, India, Peru, and Rwanda, aimed to assess the effects of household air pollution (HAP) on stillbirth, congenital anomalies, and neonatal mortality. The researchers found that the LPG intervention did not reduce the risk of adverse outcomes, and there was no evidence supporting a link between personal exposure to HAP and these outcomes. The study involved 3,200 pregnant women and was supported by various organizations, including the National Institutes of Health. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Queensland highlights the higher stillbirth rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and communities in Australia compared to non-Indigenous women. The study aimed to gain a better understanding of community experiences, perceptions, and priorities around stillbirth through qualitative research. The findings emphasize the need for evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and community-acceptable resources to address the existing disparities in stillbirth rates. The report provides insights into five focus areas to address stillbirth, including family-centered baby care, cultural safety, maternal and perinatal care based on Indigenous principles, and improved communication and education. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from NorthShore University Health System have reported on the findings of a study on the left coronary artery. The study focused on the association between coronary artery anomalies and stillbirth, an area that has not been well studied. The researchers conducted autopsies on two stillborn fetuses with coronary artery anomalies and found abnormal origins and courses of the left coronary artery. They also observed histologic vascular and myocardial changes. The researchers suspect that these findings could potentially be a cause or contributor to fetal death. For more information, readers can refer to the journal article published in Pediatric and Developmental Pathology. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan School of Public Health explores the association between grandmaternal body mass index (BMI) in early pregnancy and the risk of grandoffspring stillbirth. The study, which analyzed a Swedish population-based 3-generation cohort, found that grandmaternal overweight and obesity were associated with an increased risk of grandoffspring stillbirth. The association was not fully explained by shared familial factors. These findings contribute to our understanding of the impact of maternal BMI on stillbirth risk and highlight the importance of addressing obesity in pregnancy. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the National Center for Health Statistics discusses the importance of accurate data on fetal deaths in the United States. The National Vital Statistics System is the main source of this information, which is collected by jurisdiction vital statistics offices and the National Center for Health Statistics. Efforts are being made to improve the quality of this data and to gather additional information from other sources. The research concludes that better data will provide insights into the risks, causes, and prevention of fetal death. [Extracted from the article]

New research conducted at Okayama University in Japan explores the knowledge and attitudes of Japanese nursing staff towards bereavement care for couples who have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth. The study found that the nursing staff's knowledge in this area was insufficient, with only 41.1% having received education on bereavement care. However, 79.2% expressed willingness to provide such care. The research highlights the importance of education in equipping caregivers to effectively support grieving couples. This study was supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research. [Extracted from the article]