Japan has long worried about very young mothers and their risks for child abuse. But what about women in their early 20s who become first-time moms? A new study flips the focus by comparing two groups: those under 26 and those 26 or older. Most past research zeroed in on teens, leaving a gap for wom
South Carolina stands out in the U. S. for having some of the biggest gaps in care for Black mothers. These women are twice as likely to die during or after childbirth compared to others. Experts say this isn’t just bad luck—it’s a pattern tied to how healthcare treats people differently based on ra
A recent meeting gathered doctors, researchers, patient groups, regulators and pharma to talk about medicines that stay in the body for weeks or months. The main goal was to make sure pregnant women, nursing mothers and children can safely use these new drugs. Three questions guided the talks:
When a woman has her first child in Ethiopia often shapes not just her own health but also the future of her family and the nation. Babies born to very young mothers face higher chances of health problems right after delivery. Mothers under 18 also tend to have less schooling and fewer job opportuni
The idea that someone would need a professional to help them through childbirth might seem odd to some, but for many Black mothers, it’s a necessity. A doula isn’t just an extra pair of hands—it’s someone who understands the cultural and systemic challenges these women face. One doula, who stepped i
Massachusetts leads in insurance coverage, yet its maternity care falls short. A federal study showed that low‑risk births at freestanding centers cut preterm deliveries and cesarean sections, saving over $2, 000 per family. Only one such center is currently open, and it faces possible closure
Every year in April, healthcare teams come together to highlight gaps in care that affect Black mothers and babies across the U. S. This year, one big push arrives in Chicago on Tuesday evening, when a local hospital opens its doors for free tours, talks, and conversations about safe pregnancy journ
Many women in India are having their first or last child later than before. This trend is happening across cities and towns. More women are finishing school, working jobs, and living in urban areas. These changes give women more control over their lives but also bring new health challenges. Doctors
Mothers in Bangladesh often start pregnancy care early but stop before completing all recommended visits. Only a small portion stick with the full health service plan, called the maternal continuum of care, which includes prenatal visits, safe delivery support, and postpartum checkups. This drop-off
The study looked at 87 mothers and their babies to see how a mom’s weight, diet, exercise, and health during pregnancy influence the baby’s size in the first year. Researchers tracked mothers each trimester, measuring weight and body fat, while also asking about food choices and physical activity
