Research Keyword: maternal health

Psilocybin During the Postpartum Period Induces Long-Lasting Adverse Effects in Both Mothers and Offspring

mycolabadmin

A new study shows that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound being tested for postpartum depression, may actually cause harm during the breastfeeding period. While the drug helped non-pregnant mice feel less anxious, it made postpartum mothers more anxious and worsened their caregiving behaviors. Even more concerning, baby mice exposed to psilocybin through breast milk developed mood and social problems as adults, suggesting potential lasting risks for human infants.

Read More »

Heavy Metal Exposure During Pregnancy and Its Association With Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study

mycolabadmin

This study examined how exposure to multiple heavy metals during pregnancy affects babies’ health in a Chinese population. Researchers measured metal levels in urine samples from nearly 500 pregnant women and found that higher combined metal exposure increased risks of premature birth and low birth weight. The metal arsenic was particularly harmful for preterm birth risk, while selenium, thallium, and manganese together increased low birth weight risk. These findings suggest that pregnant women in areas with heavy metal pollution should take steps to reduce their exposure.

Read More »

Prevalence of Candida and Other Yeasts in Vulvovaginal Infections during Pregnancy: A 10-Year Serbian Survey

mycolabadmin

This study examined yeast infections in pregnant Serbian women over 10 years, finding that nearly half had positive tests. While Candida albicans was most common, many other yeast species were also identified, some of which are resistant to common antifungal medications. Using advanced laboratory techniques (MALDI-TOF MS), researchers found more accurate identification was possible, which is important since different yeasts require different treatments, especially during pregnancy when some medications can harm the baby.

Read More »

Relationship between household food insecurity and minimum dietary diversity among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Fiche town, Oromia region, Central Ethiopia: A facility-based cross-sectional study

mycolabadmin

This study examined how food insecurity affects the variety of foods pregnant women eat in Ethiopia. Researchers found that only about one-third of pregnant women ate a diverse diet containing enough different food groups. The study showed that women from food-secure households and those who received nutritional counseling during prenatal care were much more likely to eat a varied diet. The findings suggest that helping pregnant women access diverse nutritious foods and providing proper nutrition education during healthcare visits could significantly improve their dietary quality.

Read More »

Weaving birth: interdependence and the fungal turn

mycolabadmin

This article explores how childbirth can be understood through the metaphor of fungal networks, which emphasize connection and interdependence rather than isolation and control. The authors compare two contrasting birth experiences—one marked by feelings of abandonment and the need to defend oneself, the other by trust and surrender—to show how different care models shape birthing experiences. Like fungi that thrive through interconnected relationships, positive births flourish in environments of love, safety, and collective support rather than standardized medical protocols.

Read More »

Weaving birth: interdependence and the fungal turn

mycolabadmin

This paper explores childbirth through an innovative lens, comparing it to how fungal networks operate—through connection and interdependence rather than isolation. Using real birth stories, the authors show how supportive, trusting care environments allow mothers to surrender to the birthing process, whereas medical systems focused on control and isolation can be traumatic. The paper argues that positive birth experiences happen when pregnant people feel safe, supported, and connected to their care providers, communities, and their own bodies.

Read More »

Weaving birth: interdependence and the fungal turn

mycolabadmin

This paper explores how childbirth can be understood through the metaphor of fungal networks, which interconnect and support life through relationships rather than individual independence. The authors share personal birth experiences—one traumatic and controlled, one trusting and flowing—to illustrate how care models fundamentally shape birthing experiences. Using phenomenological philosophy, they argue that positive birth experiences emerge when caregivers create environments that allow the birthing person to feel safe, supported, and interconnected with others, similar to how fungi thrive through collaborative relationships.

Read More »
Scroll to Top