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The article focuses on exploring the challenges of maternity care deserts in the U.S., highlighting the significant impact on maternal and infant health outcomes and the urgent need for equitable access to prenatal and postnatal care. It discusses the findings from a report by March of Dimes, revealing the increasing shortage of maternity care facilities and providers in certain areas, exacerbating the already high mortality rate for pregnant and postpartum patients.

The uses of cervical mucus and basal body temperature as indicators of return to fertility postpartum have resulted in high unintended pregnancy rates. In 2013, a study found that when women used urine hormone signs in a postpartum/breastfeeding protocol this resulted in fewer pregnancies. To improve the original protocol's effectiveness, three revisions were made: (1) women were to increase the number of days tested with the Clearblue Fertility Monitor, (2) an optional second luteinizing hormone test could be done in the evening, and (3) instructions were given to manage the beginning of the fertile window for the first six cycles postpartum. The purpose of this study was to determine the correct and typical use effectiveness rates to avoid pregnancy in women who used a revised postpartum/breastfeeding protocol. A cohort review of an established data set from 207 postpartum breastfeeding women who used the protocol to avoid pregnancy was completed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Total pregnancy rates that included correct and incorrect use pregnancies were eighteen per one hundred women over twelve cycles of use. For the pregnancies that met a priori criteria, the correct use pregnancy rates were two per one hundred over twelve months and twelve cycles of use and typical use rates were four per one hundred women at twelve cycles of use. The protocol had fewer unplanned pregnancies than the original, however, the cost of the method increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scoping review conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts examined the effects of Ghana's Free Maternal Healthcare Policy (FMHCP) on maternal and infant healthcare. The policy, implemented in 2008, aimed to remove financial barriers to accessing maternal and neonatal health services. The review found that the FMHCP led to an overall increase in the utilization of antenatal care, facility-based delivery, and postnatal care services. However, certain systemic issues such as socio-demographic inequalities and barriers like out-of-pocket payments and poor distribution of resources in rural areas still hindered access to maternal and infant healthcare. The study concludes that Ghana needs to address these barriers and inequalities to achieve its Universal Health Coverage goals. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of North Carolina explored the perspectives of patients and healthcare providers on postpartum care in a cardio-obstetric clinic following preterm preeclampsia. The study found that patients faced challenges in navigating the healthcare system and expressed a need for better education and care coordination. Providers also identified gaps in referral and care coordination systems. The research highlights the importance of improving access to long-term healthcare services for patients at risk of cardiovascular disease. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kabul University of Medical Sciences analyzed the factors that influence the utilization of postnatal care (PNC) in Afghanistan. The study found that 39.9% of married women in the sample used PNC services. Women who gave birth at health facilities and those who had higher levels of education were more likely to use PNC. Additionally, women who visited antenatal care (ANC) and were exposed to mass media were more likely to use PNC. The study suggests that improving information, education, and communication could enhance PNC utilization in Afghanistan. Further research is needed to assess the quality of maternal health care and PNC services in the country. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a clinical trial, NCT06557005, that aims to improve postpartum primary care coordination for individuals with chronic conditions. The lack of coordination in postpartum care is seen as a missed opportunity to manage chronic conditions early in life. The study will use a behavioral economics-informed intervention integrated into usual inpatient postpartum care to increase engagement, quality, and experience of postpartum primary care. The trial will generate evidence to ensure that primary care coordination becomes standard practice in postpartum care, potentially improving long-term health outcomes. The study is not yet recruiting and aims to enroll 1320 participants, with a completion date of March 1, 2028. The eligibility criteria include being admitted to Mass General Hospital on a postpartum care unit after delivery and having certain documented conditions in the electronic health record. The study is being conducted in the United States and is affiliated with Harvard School of Public Health. Data generated from the study will be shared publicly after analysis is completed. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial, NCT06560190, is currently recruiting participants to address the lack of research on musculoskeletal injuries in postpartum military women. The trial aims to determine if orthopaedic manual physical therapy (OMPT) can improve the quality of life, pain levels, and physical activity of postpartum women. Many women report not receiving guidance on physical activity after giving birth, despite recommendations from the American College of Gynecology. OMPT, provided by trained therapists, could potentially help postpartum women increase their physical activity and overall well-being. The study is open to female service members who are between 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum and have been cleared by their OBGYN to start physical activity. It is being conducted at Brooke Army Medical Center in the United States. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association examined the association between race, ethnicity, social factors, and postpartum primary care or cardiology follow-up visits among individuals with preeclampsia. The researchers found that Black and Hispanic individuals with preeclampsia had lower odds of follow-up visits compared to White individuals. However, the study also revealed that higher educational attainment and income levels were associated with increased likelihood of follow-up visits among Black and Hispanic individuals. The findings suggest that there are racial and ethnic disparities in postpartum care for individuals with preeclampsia, which may be influenced by social factors. The researchers recommend implementing system-level interventions to reduce barriers to follow-up care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Timisoara, Romania, discusses research on the incidence and antenatal detection of congenital heart malformations (CHDs). The study found that CHDs are common and place a significant burden on the healthcare system due to high mortality rates and the cost of care for survivors. The research highlights the need for improvements in patients' education, prenatal care, and screening programs to improve diagnosis, decrease mortality, and optimize postnatal care. The study also emphasizes the importance of a multifactorial approach to understanding and addressing CHDs. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on disparities in maternal care among Hispanic birthing people based on language and state policies. Topics discussed include the impact of Medicaid expansion and immigrant Medicaid coverage on perinatal care utilization and quality, differences in care based on primary language (Spanish or English), and variations in prenatal and postpartum care across states with different policy environments.

A recent study in the Netherlands explored the experiences of nonpostpartum individuals receiving contraceptive care from midwives. The study found that Dutch midwives, who have been authorized to prescribe contraception since 2015, are increasingly offering contraceptive care to a broader population. The majority of survey participants received an intrauterine device during their appointment, and a majority rated their care highly. Participants reported receiving understandable information, being taken seriously, and having enough time during their appointments. The study suggests that efforts should be made to improve task sharing and increase awareness of midwives as contraception providers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Eastern Nepal analyzed the factors influencing the utilization of postnatal care services among mothers. The study found that only 52% of the women studied had postnatal care visits, with the majority having partial utilization. Factors associated with higher utilization included wealth, migration status, higher caste, exposure to media, awareness of health services, and perception of higher service quality. The study concluded that increasing focus on mothers from poorer households, native populations, individuals needing behavioral modification, and those with poor awareness could enhance the overall usage of complete postnatal care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women in Delhi, India, focuses on addressing the high neonatal mortality rates caused by undiagnosed congenital heart disease (CHD) in rural areas. The researchers propose the development of an early detection system that analyzes various vital parameters in newborns to accurately identify CHD. The primary objective is to improve postnatal care, prognosis, and treatment strategies in underserved regions. The outcomes of this research have the potential to significantly reduce neonatal mortality rates in these areas. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the findings of a research study on the use of health information technology (HIT) to improve postpartum care in community health centers. The study was conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in partnership with the National Association of Community Health Centers. The researchers implemented strategies to integrate evidence-based recommendations into clinic workflows and used data-driven HIT systems to improve data standardization for quality improvement of postpartum care services. The study highlighted the potential of HIT-driven interventions to improve postpartum care, but also emphasized the need to address data interoperability and documentation challenges. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health analyzed the delivery and postnatal care among women in 71 low- and middle-income countries. The research found that despite increased coverage of facility delivery and skilled assistance at delivery, high levels of maternal morbidity and mortality persist in these countries. The study assessed the coverage gaps in delivery care and found that while 76% of women delivered in a facility, only 41% received all four interventions. The researchers concluded that addressing these gaps is crucial, along with providing high-quality care during birth and the postpartum period. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Medical University of Lublin provides an analysis of the latest studies and guidelines regarding physical activity during the postpartum period. The research recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for postpartum women to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, weight management, and mental health. The study highlights the effectiveness of various exercise regimens, such as trunk stabilization exercises for reducing lumbopelvic pain and disability, and exercise training for improving maternal vascular health and blood pressure. Innovative approaches, such as progressive muscle relaxation exercises and smartphone app-based reminders for pelvic floor muscle training, also show potential benefits. The research concludes that structured physical activity programs in postpartum care offer a range of benefits, including pain reduction, improved cardiovascular health, and enhanced mental well-being. Future research should focus on identifying barriers to adherence and developing tailored interventions for postpartum women. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of California explored the priorities and practices of obstetric clinicians in California during the postpartum period. The study found that while professional societies promote the idea of comprehensive postpartum care, clinicians often face limitations in terms of time and resources. The study revealed that clinicians prioritize components such as depression and anxiety, breast health/breastfeeding issues, vaginal birth complications, and family planning counseling. However, components related to social drivers of health, such as screening and counseling for intimate partner violence, working conditions, and food/housing insecurity, were less frequently assessed. The findings highlight the need to understand the care provided by clinicians and identify any remaining gaps, especially with the availability of Medicaid insurance for up to 12 months postpartum in California. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Jimma University in Ethiopia aimed to assess the utilization of maternal healthcare services in the Jimma Zone. The study found that while there were relatively high rates of antenatal care, facility delivery, and postpartum care utilization, there was a low proportion of early antenatal care initiation and high rates of antenatal care dropout. Factors such as lack of access, economic challenges, disrespectful care, lack of privacy, and unfavorable attitudes were identified as barriers to maternal health service use. The researchers suggest that mobile phone-based messaging interventions could help address these barriers and improve maternal health service utilization. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial, NCT06481631, has been launched to address high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity in the United States, specifically in the rural southeast region, including the Mississippi Delta. The trial aims to establish the Mississippi Delta Research Center of Excellence for Maternal Health, which will prioritize patient voices and community practice to build trust. The trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a communication and health literacy strategy to increase trust and engagement in postpartum healthcare, with a focus on Black women and their communities. The goal is to reduce preventable maternal mortality, decrease severe maternal morbidity, and promote maternal health equity in partnership with the Mississippi Delta community. The trial is a collaboration between Jackson State University, the Mississippi State Department of Health, the University of Mississippi Medical Center, and the Harvard School of Public Health. It will assess the impact of the PEN-3 Intervention Model on patient-clinical linkages in the Mississippi Delta region, considering factors such as family dynamics, trust in the healthcare system, family structure, health literacy, and contraception. The trial is not yet recruiting participants and is expected to be completed by July 2029. [Extracted from the article]

A recent qualitative study conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts explored the experiences of high-risk pregnant and postpartum individuals in accessing postpartum care and primary care after delivery. The study found that participants universally identified difficulty accessing primary care in the postpartum period, with barriers including lack of knowledge and supportive environments, insufficient preparation, inadequate prenatal counseling, and lack of standardized care transitions. The research concluded that future interventions should include prenatal education on the benefits of primary care follow-up, structured postpartum planning, and improvements in obstetric and primary care provider communication. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, explored the traditional uses of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in 254 ethnic groups across Indonesia. The study found that ginger was primarily used in combination with other ingredients to treat a variety of ailments, with pre- and postnatal care being the most common use. The research highlighted the importance of traditional healers in utilizing ginger for medicinal purposes and emphasized the differences in its traditional use among the ethnic groups. This study contributes to the preservation of indigenous knowledge and medical practices in Indonesia. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Al-Razi University in Yemen aimed to determine the utilization of postnatal care services among mothers in the Maeen District of Sana'a City. The study found that less than half of the participants utilized postnatal care services. Factors such as mode of delivery, place of delivery, and receiving information about postnatal care during antenatal visits were significantly associated with the utilization of these services. The researchers concluded that strengthening the provision of information, education, and communication regarding postnatal care services is crucial to improve utilization rates among pregnant mothers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California examined the integration of support persons into maternity care in Kenya and its impact on the quality of care received by women. The study found that high integration of support persons was associated with improved person-centered care outcomes, satisfaction with care, and implementation of recommended clinical practices. Specifically, better communication between support persons and healthcare providers was found to have a stronger association with quality of care. The findings suggest that integrating support persons, such as advocates for women, is important for promoting respectful maternity care in low-resource settings like Kenya. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers information on the distinct postpartum challenges faced by new mothers with ADHD, including hormonal swings, negative feelings, and the need for medical support. Topics include the impact of hormonal changes on ADHD symptoms, the experiences of women with ADHD and postpartum depression (PPD), and the importance of a team approach in providing postpartum care for women with ADHD.

A study conducted in Salerno, Italy, examined the use of an automated insulin delivery (AID) system in six women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) throughout their pregnancy and postpartum period. The patients used the MiniMed 780G device and received virtual follow-up visits due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that all patients achieved and maintained recommended metabolic goals, with optimal glycaemic values during labor and delivery and in the first 30 days postpartum. The researchers concluded that the MiniMed 780G device helped maintain glycaemic control despite not being specifically designed for pregnancy. [Extracted from the article]

State Senator Lakesia Collins has passed a measure aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates by expanding coverage for pregnancy, postpartum, and newborn care provided by doulas and midwives. The legislation requires private insurers to cover all care provided by perinatal doulas and licensed certified professional midwives, including home visits and support during labor. It also includes coverage for abortion care without limitations and aims to add coverage for certified professional midwife services for Medicaid recipients starting in 2025. The initiative seeks to address disparities in maternal health outcomes, particularly among Black women. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo highlights the gaps in preparation for the postpartum period in the United States. The research found that many women feel unprepared to manage the challenges they face during this time, including mental health concerns, physical recovery, breastfeeding, and infant care. Parents also reported difficulty differentiating normal postpartum symptoms from complications and felt that hospital discharge teaching was overwhelming and inadequate. The study suggests the need for earlier and more comprehensive postpartum preparation during pregnancy, as well as improved outpatient support and earlier postpartum visits. Future research should explore innovative educational approaches and outpatient programs to address these gaps in postpartum care. [Extracted from the article]

Pomelo offers virtual pregnancy, postpartum and infant care to patients between visits, while also analyzing claims and health record data to proactively identify individual risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Erasmus University Medical Center in the Netherlands examined the uptake of postpartum care at home across Dutch neighborhoods. The study found significant differences in postpartum care uptake between neighborhoods, with individual-level factors such as income and migration background playing a significant role. Additionally, neighborhood-level determinants, such as deprivation and urbanization, were found to contribute to the variation in postpartum care uptake. The study highlights the importance of addressing both individual and neighborhood-level factors in order to improve the uptake of postpartum care and overall community health. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Nottingham explores the experiences and needs of survivor mothers who are seeking asylum and have been victims of violence and human trafficking. The study examines the support services provided by two collaborating organizations, Happy Baby Community and Hestia, and how they address the challenges faced by these women in terms of perinatal mental health, infant feeding, and general experiences in maternity care. The research highlights the complex and inter-related challenges faced by these women and emphasizes the importance of meeting their fundamental needs and rights. The study provides implications for other services and policymakers seeking to support this vulnerable population. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia examined the feeding practices of infants and young children in irrigated and non-irrigated areas of the Dangila district. The study found that the prevalence of good infant and young child feeding practices was higher in irrigated areas compared to non-irrigated areas. Factors such as education, knowledge, attitude, postnatal care, women's decision-making power, and multiple deliveries were identified as significant factors influencing feeding practices. The researchers recommended promoting irrigation practices, empowering women, and strengthening postnatal care to improve feeding practices in the study area. [Extracted from the article]

Big Blue Marble Academy (BBMA), a leader in early childhood education, recently completed a national fundraising effort called "Change for Change" to provide pre- and postnatal care for 140 mothers and their babies at Rotifunk Hospital in Sierra Leone, Africa. The initiative aimed to teach children important service learning skills and demonstrate the impact they can have on their world. The schools raised over $12,600, which directly benefits the new families. The students collected change, made posters, and counted the money, while also learning about the importance of healthy food, clean water, and doctors for mothers and babies. BBMA's global curriculum aims to show children their role as good citizens in their community and the world. The fundraising effort aligns with the school's curriculum, which focuses on a different country each month. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, examined the impact of a multidisciplinary prenatal clinic for patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) on breastfeeding rates and postpartum care. The study found that patients who received prenatal care at the clinic were more likely to exclusively breastfeed at discharge compared to matched controls without OUD. There was no significant difference in postpartum visit compliance or effective, long-term contraception use between the two groups. The findings suggest that multidisciplinary OUD prenatal care can positively influence breastfeeding rates without compromising postpartum care. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Kent examined the quality of care provided under the expanded free maternity policy (Linda Mama Policy) in Kenya. The policy aimed to address the issue of preventable pregnancy-related complications. The study involved interviews with national stakeholders, county officials, healthcare workers, and mothers who utilized the policy's delivery services. The results showed that while the policy improved access to maternal care, there were challenges related to workload, equipment and infrastructure, and the treatment of mothers. The researchers concluded that addressing these challenges is necessary to achieve better quality service for every woman and to meet Universal Health Coverage goals. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Venda has developed a community-based postnatal care model to address the challenges faced by postnatal women and neonates during the early weeks after delivery. The model, informed by various theories and frameworks, aims to provide effective management of neonates in the community. The study emphasizes the importance of utilizing this model to create an enabling and supportive environment for primary caregivers in the community. The research provides a reference guide for postnatal women in the provision of community-based postnatal care after discharge from healthcare facilities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted from November 2022 to October 2023 aimed to improve postpartum primary care engagement for individuals with chronic health conditions. The study implemented an intervention that included default scheduling of postpartum primary care appointments and tailored messages. The results showed that the intervention significantly increased completion of primary care visits within four months of delivery, reduced postpartum readmissions, and increased receipt of important services such as blood pressure screening, weight assessment, and depression screening. The study suggests that reducing patient administrative burdens can be an effective and low-resource approach to improving postpartum health and well-being. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Calcutta National Medical College in West Bengal, India, examined the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among lactating mothers at six weeks postpartum. The study found that 15.7% of lactating mothers were deficient in vitamin B12 during this period. Factors such as being vegetarian, having multiple pregnancies, and experiencing paraesthesia were associated with a higher likelihood of cobalamin deficiency. The researchers concluded that screening and supplementing lactating mothers for vitamin B12 deficiency at the six-week postnatal visit could help prevent long-term complications for both mother and child. Haematological parameters were found to have limited use in identifying vitamin B12 deficiency during lactation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Mozambique aimed to improve antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among seroconcordant couples living with HIV. The study implemented a couple-based care and treatment intervention, which included couple-based education, skills building, and peer support. The results showed that the intervention had no impact on medication possession ratio among women, but it increased men's medication possession ratio by 8.77%. Although the intervention did not significantly reduce infant seroconversion, it highlighted the need for improved social support for pregnant women and prevention of vertical transmission among couples living with HIV. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) highlights the crisis in postpartum health in the United States, with increasing pregnancy-related mortality and racial inequities. The World Health Organization recommends four postpartum visits within six weeks after childbirth, but standard care in the US typically only includes one visit at six weeks. The report presents a community midwifery model of postpartum care that aligns with WHO guidelines, emphasizing multiple visits, care for the parent-infant dyad, personalized and relationship-centered care, and postpartum rest. This model has the potential to improve postpartum health outcomes and address the rising morbidity and mortality rates in the US. [Extracted from the article]