Pregnancy Planning

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April 6, 2012 / Vol. 61 / No. RR–2
Good Laboratory Practices for Biochemical Genetic Testing and Newborn Screening for Inherited Metabolic Disorders
CE Available

This report provides recommendations for good laboratory practices for biochemical genetic testing and newborn screening for inherited metabolic disorders. The recommended practices address the benefits of using a quality management system approach, factors to consider before introducing new tests, establishment and verification of test performance specifications, the total laboratory testing process, confidentiality of patient information and test results, and personnel qualifications and responsibilities for laboratory testing for inherited metabolic diseases. These recommendations are intended for laboratories that perform biochemical genetic testing to improve the quality of laboratory services and for newborn screening laboratories to ensure the quality of laboratory practices for inherited metabolic disorders. These recommendations also are intended as a resource for medical and public health professionals who evaluate laboratory practices, for users of laboratory services to facilitate their collaboration with newborn screening systems and use of biochemical genetic tests, and for standard-setting organizations and professional societies in developing future laboratory quality standards and practice recommendations.

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High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy May Threaten Kids' Heart Health

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota
By Steven Reinberg
HealthDay Reporter

THURSDAY, May 24 (HealthDay News) -- Preeclampsia, a dangerous spike in a woman's blood pressure during pregnancy, may predispose offspring to high blood pressure in childhood and young adulthood, a new study finds.

From early in life, these children have distinct cardiovascular risk factors that may put them at risk for health problems later on, the British researchers said.

"A pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia is an early warning sign that both the mother and offspring are going to be at greater risk of developing high blood pressure later in life," said lead researcher Dr. Paul Leeson, from the department of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Oxford in England.

The findings suggest a need to monitor these children, the authors said. "There is likely to be value in considering a history of preeclampsia to understand better a person's risk of developing high blood pressure," Leeson said.

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, can lead to stroke, heart attack and kidney failure.

Research into the biology underlying this association may also help identify new ways to prevent high blood pressure, Leeson added.

The report, published May 21 online, appears in the June print issue of Pediatrics.

For the study, Leeson's team reviewed 18 studies published between 1948 and 2011 that dealt with cardiovascular risk factors of children and young adults exposed to preeclampsia and those not exposed.

This type of study, which involved more than 45,000 individuals, is called a meta-analysis and is designed to look for common patterns in unrelated studies.

In their analysis, the researchers found that kids exposed to preeclampsia had higher blood pressure readings in childhood and as young adults, compared with those who were not exposed.

Systolic blood pressure of those exposed to preeclampsia was 2.39 mm Hg higher on average than that of those whose moms had healthy pregnancies, and diastolic pressure was 1.35 mm Hg higher on average, the researchers noted. In a blood pressure reading of 120/80, the first number -- 120 -- is the systolic pressure.

Over time, this difference in systolic blood pressure would increase a person's risk of death from heart disease by about 8 percent and stroke by 12 percent, the authors said.

Children and young adults exposed to preeclampsia also had a higher body mass index (BMI) than children not exposed, the researchers say. BMI, a calculation of body size based on height and weight, is another risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

The study does not prove that preeclampsia causes cardiovascular disease, however. It merely shows an association between the two.

Dr. Natalie Meirowitz, chief of maternal-fetal medicine in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, N.Y., said this study points to a major public health issue.

"This study really says the intrauterine environment affects a child's vascular function as an adult," Meirowitz said.

"It may be obesity that is driving this," added Meirowitz. More pregnant women are obese, which is a risk factor for preeclampsia.

"We really need to consider cardiovascular disease that comes from the intrauterine environment and understand it better so we can prevent future cardiovascular disease," she said.

Obesity in pregnancy is a modifiable risk factor, Meirowitz said. "There isn't enough attention paid to it and the effect it can have on children later in life," she said.

Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCES: Paul Leeson, M.B., Ph.D.,department of cardiovascular medicine, University of Oxford, England; Natalie Meirowitz, M.D., chief, maternal-fetal medicine, department of obstetrics and gynecology, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, N.Y.; June 2012 Pediatrics

View the original article here

High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy May Threaten Kids' Heart Health

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota
By Steven Reinberg
HealthDay Reporter

THURSDAY, May 24 (HealthDay News) -- Preeclampsia, a dangerous spike in a woman's blood pressure during pregnancy, may predispose offspring to high blood pressure in childhood and young adulthood, a new study finds.

From early in life, these children have distinct cardiovascular risk factors that may put them at risk for health problems later on, the British researchers said.

"A pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia is an early warning sign that both the mother and offspring are going to be at greater risk of developing high blood pressure later in life," said lead researcher Dr. Paul Leeson, from the department of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Oxford in England.

The findings suggest a need to monitor these children, the authors said. "There is likely to be value in considering a history of preeclampsia to understand better a person's risk of developing high blood pressure," Leeson said.

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, can lead to stroke, heart attack and kidney failure.

Research into the biology underlying this association may also help identify new ways to prevent high blood pressure, Leeson added.

The report, published May 21 online, appears in the June print issue of Pediatrics.

For the study, Leeson's team reviewed 18 studies published between 1948 and 2011 that dealt with cardiovascular risk factors of children and young adults exposed to preeclampsia and those not exposed.

This type of study, which involved more than 45,000 individuals, is called a meta-analysis and is designed to look for common patterns in unrelated studies.

In their analysis, the researchers found that kids exposed to preeclampsia had higher blood pressure readings in childhood and as young adults, compared with those who were not exposed.

Systolic blood pressure of those exposed to preeclampsia was 2.39 mm Hg higher on average than that of those whose moms had healthy pregnancies, and diastolic pressure was 1.35 mm Hg higher on average, the researchers noted. In a blood pressure reading of 120/80, the first number -- 120 -- is the systolic pressure.

Over time, this difference in systolic blood pressure would increase a person's risk of death from heart disease by about 8 percent and stroke by 12 percent, the authors said.

Children and young adults exposed to preeclampsia also had a higher body mass index (BMI) than children not exposed, the researchers say. BMI, a calculation of body size based on height and weight, is another risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

The study does not prove that preeclampsia causes cardiovascular disease, however. It merely shows an association between the two.

Dr. Natalie Meirowitz, chief of maternal-fetal medicine in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, N.Y., said this study points to a major public health issue.

"This study really says the intrauterine environment affects a child's vascular function as an adult," Meirowitz said.

"It may be obesity that is driving this," added Meirowitz. More pregnant women are obese, which is a risk factor for preeclampsia.

"We really need to consider cardiovascular disease that comes from the intrauterine environment and understand it better so we can prevent future cardiovascular disease," she said.

Obesity in pregnancy is a modifiable risk factor, Meirowitz said. "There isn't enough attention paid to it and the effect it can have on children later in life," she said.

Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCES: Paul Leeson, M.B., Ph.D.,department of cardiovascular medicine, University of Oxford, England; Natalie Meirowitz, M.D., chief, maternal-fetal medicine, department of obstetrics and gynecology, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, N.Y.; June 2012 Pediatrics

View the original article here

What You Need to Know About Taking Medications During Pregnancy

You are feeling sick or you get suddenly tormented by a strong headache. The easiest way to approach the issue is by taking the appropriate medication. A pregnant woman, however, will have to think twice before deciding on a medical treatment for any condition. The harm that some drugs cause will certainly outweigh the short-term benefits.
Why Medications are Dangerous for the Fetus?
The human fetus is very vulnerable, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. A chemical that passes to the embryo through the mom's blood stream could be exceptionally dangerous.
Pregnant women have to be extra careful about medicines. Some substances that are harmless for the grown-up organism can be deadly for an unborn child. The medication could slow down the formation of the various bodily systems and it can cause malformations.
Medical treatment is acceptable solely if the health of the mom-to-be is seriously endangered. Drugs should be taken solely after a consultation with a medic and following the prescription. Self-treatment is entirely unacceptable during pregnancy.
Alternative Treatments
We are all so reliant on medications that we have forgotten the numerous natural remedies that we can make use of. These will be especially beneficial for pregnant women who are suffering from one medical condition or another.
If you are suffering from a headache, you do not have to rush for the aspirin. Have a relaxing bath instead. Pamper yourself and you will soon be feeling much better. Some essential oils will deal with the pain and will give you the chance to feel fresh and energetic once again.
Some pregnant women suffer from insomnia and are desperate to get a sleeping pill. A glass of warm milk and some soothing music will be able to produce better results. Taking a short walk in the park before going to bed could also turn into an effective way to overcome insomnia.
Colds can be treated with herbal teas and fruits rich in vitamin C like oranges, lemons and grapefruits.
Common Medications and Their Effect during Pregnancy
Aspirin is one of the common drugs that you should refrain from taking during pregnancy. Aspirin can prolong any type of bleeding, making birth more dangerous for both the mom and her baby.
A doctor could recommend an antibiotic treatment, in case the condition of the mom-to-be demands such treatment. For highest degree of safety, the usage of antibiotics should be avoided during the first trimester.
Anti-depressants should be avoided, just like any other form of medication. Some drugs can be dangerous while others produce no side effects but it would be wisest to refrain from taking artificial substances.
Strong medications that affect the nervous system have to be avoided. Drugs should become a final resort option. The consultation with a psychologist is a much better alternative.
The flu vaccine is another medication that is acceptable only if a doctor has recommended it. During pregnancy, the body strives hard to strengthen its immune response. A vaccination during that period will build more reliable defense against the flu virus.

What You Need to Know About Taking Medications During Pregnancy

You are feeling sick or you get suddenly tormented by a strong headache. The easiest way to approach the issue is by taking the appropriate medication. A pregnant woman, however, will have to think twice before deciding on a medical treatment for any condition. The harm that some drugs cause will certainly outweigh the short-term benefits.
Why Medications are Dangerous for the Fetus?
The human fetus is very vulnerable, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. A chemical that passes to the embryo through the mom's blood stream could be exceptionally dangerous.
Pregnant women have to be extra careful about medicines. Some substances that are harmless for the grown-up organism can be deadly for an unborn child. The medication could slow down the formation of the various bodily systems and it can cause malformations.
Medical treatment is acceptable solely if the health of the mom-to-be is seriously endangered. Drugs should be taken solely after a consultation with a medic and following the prescription. Self-treatment is entirely unacceptable during pregnancy.
Alternative Treatments
We are all so reliant on medications that we have forgotten the numerous natural remedies that we can make use of. These will be especially beneficial for pregnant women who are suffering from one medical condition or another.
If you are suffering from a headache, you do not have to rush for the aspirin. Have a relaxing bath instead. Pamper yourself and you will soon be feeling much better. Some essential oils will deal with the pain and will give you the chance to feel fresh and energetic once again.
Some pregnant women suffer from insomnia and are desperate to get a sleeping pill. A glass of warm milk and some soothing music will be able to produce better results. Taking a short walk in the park before going to bed could also turn into an effective way to overcome insomnia.
Colds can be treated with herbal teas and fruits rich in vitamin C like oranges, lemons and grapefruits.
Common Medications and Their Effect during Pregnancy
Aspirin is one of the common drugs that you should refrain from taking during pregnancy. Aspirin can prolong any type of bleeding, making birth more dangerous for both the mom and her baby.
A doctor could recommend an antibiotic treatment, in case the condition of the mom-to-be demands such treatment. For highest degree of safety, the usage of antibiotics should be avoided during the first trimester.
Anti-depressants should be avoided, just like any other form of medication. Some drugs can be dangerous while others produce no side effects but it would be wisest to refrain from taking artificial substances.
Strong medications that affect the nervous system have to be avoided. Drugs should become a final resort option. The consultation with a psychologist is a much better alternative.
The flu vaccine is another medication that is acceptable only if a doctor has recommended it. During pregnancy, the body strives hard to strengthen its immune response. A vaccination during that period will build more reliable defense against the flu virus.

What You Need to Know About Taking Medications During Pregnancy

You are feeling sick or you get suddenly tormented by a strong headache. The easiest way to approach the issue is by taking the appropriate medication. A pregnant woman, however, will have to think twice before deciding on a medical treatment for any condition. The harm that some drugs cause will certainly outweigh the short-term benefits.
Why Medications are Dangerous for the Fetus?
The human fetus is very vulnerable, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. A chemical that passes to the embryo through the mom's blood stream could be exceptionally dangerous.
Pregnant women have to be extra careful about medicines. Some substances that are harmless for the grown-up organism can be deadly for an unborn child. The medication could slow down the formation of the various bodily systems and it can cause malformations.
Medical treatment is acceptable solely if the health of the mom-to-be is seriously endangered. Drugs should be taken solely after a consultation with a medic and following the prescription. Self-treatment is entirely unacceptable during pregnancy.
Alternative Treatments
We are all so reliant on medications that we have forgotten the numerous natural remedies that we can make use of. These will be especially beneficial for pregnant women who are suffering from one medical condition or another.
If you are suffering from a headache, you do not have to rush for the aspirin. Have a relaxing bath instead. Pamper yourself and you will soon be feeling much better. Some essential oils will deal with the pain and will give you the chance to feel fresh and energetic once again.
Some pregnant women suffer from insomnia and are desperate to get a sleeping pill. A glass of warm milk and some soothing music will be able to produce better results. Taking a short walk in the park before going to bed could also turn into an effective way to overcome insomnia.
Colds can be treated with herbal teas and fruits rich in vitamin C like oranges, lemons and grapefruits.
Common Medications and Their Effect during Pregnancy
Aspirin is one of the common drugs that you should refrain from taking during pregnancy. Aspirin can prolong any type of bleeding, making birth more dangerous for both the mom and her baby.
A doctor could recommend an antibiotic treatment, in case the condition of the mom-to-be demands such treatment. For highest degree of safety, the usage of antibiotics should be avoided during the first trimester.
Anti-depressants should be avoided, just like any other form of medication. Some drugs can be dangerous while others produce no side effects but it would be wisest to refrain from taking artificial substances.
Strong medications that affect the nervous system have to be avoided. Drugs should become a final resort option. The consultation with a psychologist is a much better alternative.
The flu vaccine is another medication that is acceptable only if a doctor has recommended it. During pregnancy, the body strives hard to strengthen its immune response. A vaccination during that period will build more reliable defense against the flu virus.