<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">A new male non-hormonal contraceptive tablet was shown to be 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy with no side effects in mouse testing.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">With significantly fewer alternatives available to men, the breakthrough medicine could help to balance the contraceptive burden.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">Human studies are in the works, but some experts are concerned that safety problems may prevent the medicine from reaching the market.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">"Despite numerous attempts, no effective and safe male contraception has made it through human clinical trials.Most have been based on hormones, but non-hormonal contraceptives," according to Md Abdullah al Noman of the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, have less negative effects.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | France introduces free birth control scheme for all women under age 25</strong></p>

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<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Over the course of four weeks, scientists gave male mice a daily dose of a chemical called YCT529 and discovered that their sperm count fell.The mice were able to reproduce properly again between four and six weeks after the medication was stopped, with no noticeable negative effects.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">There are various molecules in clinical trials, but they all target testosterone, the male sex hormone, which has been linked to weight gain, depression, and other negative effects.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">"Safety is very important for birth control pills because people are not taking them for a disease, so they are less tolerant of side effects," says Noman.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="11">Human clinical studies are expected to begin in the second half of this year, according to the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="12"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new male non-hormonal contraceptive tablet was shown to be 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy with no side effects in mouse testing. With significantly fewer alternatives available to men, the breakthrough medicine could help to balance the contraceptive burden.

A new male non-hormonal contraceptive tablet was shown to be 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy with no side effects in mouse testing. With significantly fewer alternatives available to men, the breakthrough medicine could help to balance the contraceptive burden. Human studies are in the works, but some experts are concerned that safety problems may prevent the medicine from reaching the market. "Despite numerous attempts, no effective and safe male contraception has made it through human clinical trials.Most have been based on hormones, but non-hormonal contraceptives," according to Md Abdullah al Noman of the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, have less negative effects. Watch | France introduces free birth control scheme for all women under age 25 Over the course of four weeks, scientists gave male mice a daily dose of a chemical called YCT529 and discovered that their sperm count fell.The mice were able to reproduce properly again between four and six weeks after the medication was stopped, with no noticeable negative effects. There are various molecules in clinical trials, but they all target testosterone, the male sex hormone, which has been linked to weight gain, depression, and other negative effects. "Safety is very important for birth control pills because people are not taking them for a disease, so they are less tolerant of side effects," says Noman. Human clinical studies are expected to begin in the second half of this year, according to the team. (With inputs from agencies)

Male contraceptive pill is 99% effective, show tests in mice

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<p>In the United Kingdom, scientists are launching a trial of a new scanning technique that apparently can identify women who are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In medical terms, adverse pregnancy outcomes are defined as the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities, miscarriage, congenital malformations, stillbirth or birth before 34 weeks of gestation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report media outlet added that the new scanning technique has the potential to assess the pre-birth complications by analysing placentas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-iodine-tablets-for-nuclear-risk-why-is-europe-rushing-to-buy-this-tablet-462841">Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the report, the scanning technology is based on artificial intelligence (AI) that will analyse ultrasound images taken during women's 12-week scans. After that, a risk score will be assigned.</p>

<p>Similar tests, such as Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), can detect Down syndrome. In CVS, cells are taken from the placenta and used to analyse the fetal chromosomes. This test is typically performed in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prof Sally Collins, who is a consultant obstetrician and medical lead for women's health at Perspectum Ltd, expressed her opinions on the new technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strain-hasnt-yet-been-seen-in-world-israel-reports-confirmed-cases-of-combined-omicron-and-ba2-strain-462847">'Strain hasn't yet been seen in world': Israel reports confirmed cases of combined Omicron and BA.2 strain</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the media report, Perspectum Ltd is an Oxford University spin-out company that is developing the technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Collins said, "Many studies have shown that if you have a small placenta in the first trimester, you will have a small placenta at term, and a small placenta makes a small baby."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If your placenta is small, and has a normal supply of blood vessels (vascularity), it can be an indication of foetal growth restriction. If it is small with low vascularity, you potentially get a small baby and preeclampsia," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we’ve come up with is a fully automated, artificial intelligence method for seeing and measuring the placenta, and the blood supply at its interface with the uterus,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>so suddenly, we have a computer tool that can tell you the size and the vascularity of the placenta in real time," added Collins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the media report, approximately eight families in the UK are affected by stillbirth, with foetal growth restriction each day.&nbsp;</p>


In the United Kingdom, scientists are launching a trial of a new scanning technique that apparently can identify women who are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, The Guardian reported.

In the United Kingdom, scientists are launching a trial of a new scanning technique that apparently can identify women who are at high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, The Guardian reported. In medical terms, adverse pregnancy outcomes are defined as the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities, miscarriage, congenital malformations, stillbirth or birth before 34 weeks of gestation. The report media outlet added that the new scanning technique has the potential to assess the pre-birth complications by analysing placentas. ALSO READ | Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet? As per the report, the scanning technology is based on artificial intelligence (AI) that will analyse ultrasound images taken during women's 12-week scans. After that, a risk score will be assigned. Similar tests, such as Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), can detect Down syndrome. In CVS, cells are taken from the placenta and used to analyse the fetal chromosomes. This test is typically performed in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. Prof Sally Collins, who is a consultant obstetrician and medical lead for women's health at Perspectum Ltd, expressed her opinions on the new technology. ALSO READ | 'Strain hasn't yet been seen in world': Israel reports confirmed cases of combined Omicron and BA.2 strain As per the media report, Perspectum Ltd is an Oxford University spin-out company that is developing the technology. Collins said, "Many studies have shown that if you have a small placenta in the first trimester, you will have a small placenta at term, and a small placenta makes a small baby." "If your placenta is small, and has a normal supply of blood vessels (vascularity), it can be an indication of foetal growth restriction. If it is small with low vascularity, you potentially get a small baby and preeclampsia," she added. "What we’ve come up with is a fully automated, artificial intelligence method for seeing and measuring the placenta, and the blood supply at its interface with the uterus, so suddenly, we have a computer tool that can tell you the size and the vascularity of the placenta in real time," added Collins. As per the media report, approximately eight families in the UK are affected by stillbirth, with foetal growth restriction each day.

In UK, trial begins for AI scan technique that could assess risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes

Colombia's highest court has decriminalised abortion during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. Before the ruling, Colombia allowed abortions only when a woman's life was in danger, a fetus had malformations or a pregnancy resulted from rape.

Colombia's highest court legalises abortion up to 24 weeks of pregnancy

A sharp increase in teen pregnancies and child marriages has been reported in Zimbabwe during the pandemic, with at least 5,000 girls falling pregnant and 1,174 cases of child marriages being recorded last year.

A sharp increase in teen pregnancies & child marriages in Zimbabwe during the pandemic

<p>A rare case of a foetus growing inside liver of a 33-year-old woman in Canada has come to light. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The revelation was shared by the doctor, who diagnosed the unusual condition in the patient.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Dr Michael Narvey, paediatrician, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba in Canada, has also uploaded a video on social media. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/young-mans-death-in-new-zealand-linked-to-pfizer-covid-vaccine-after-he-suffered-from-myocarditis-438298" hreflang="en">Young man's death in New Zealand linked to Pfizer Covid vaccine after he suffered from myocarditis</a></strong></p>

<p>Dr Narvey said, “I thought I had seen it all but then a 33-year-old woman comes in with a 14-day history of menstrual bleeding and 49 days since her last menstrual period." &nbsp;</p>

<p>On examination of the patient, the doctor unearthed an ectopic pregnancy in the liver of the woman, reported The Sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In simple terms, an ectopic pregnancy means a condition when a fertilised egg, instead of getting implanted in the uterine cavity, gets stuck in any other part of the body. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-northwest-region-hit-with-hemorrhagic-fever-438362" hreflang="en">China's northwest region hit with hemorrhagic fever</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the National Centre for Biotechnology Information, ectopic pregnancy in the liver is "exceptionally rare." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Dr Narvey added, "We see this sometimes in the abdomen but never in the liver. This is a first for me." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The surgeons saved the life of woman by removing the foetus, who couldn't be saved. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A rare case of a foetus growing inside liver of a 33-year-old woman in Canada has come to light. The revelation was shared by the doctor, who diagnosed the unusual condition in the patient.

A rare case of a foetus growing inside liver of a 33-year-old woman in Canada has come to light. The revelation was shared by the doctor, who diagnosed the unusual condition in the patient. × Dr Michael Narvey, paediatrician, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba in Canada, has also uploaded a video on social media. Also Read: Young man's death in New Zealand linked to Pfizer Covid vaccine after he suffered from myocarditis Dr Narvey said, “I thought I had seen it all but then a 33-year-old woman comes in with a 14-day history of menstrual bleeding and 49 days since her last menstrual period." On examination of the patient, the doctor unearthed an ectopic pregnancy in the liver of the woman, reported The Sun. In simple terms, an ectopic pregnancy means a condition when a fertilised egg, instead of getting implanted in the uterine cavity, gets stuck in any other part of the body. Also Read: China's northwest region hit with hemorrhagic fever As per the National Centre for Biotechnology Information, ectopic pregnancy in the liver is "exceptionally rare." In the video, Dr Narvey added, "We see this sometimes in the abdomen but never in the liver. This is a first for me." The surgeons saved the life of woman by removing the foetus, who couldn't be saved. (With inputs from agencies)

"Extremely rare" pregnancy: Foetus found inside liver of 33-year-old woman in Canada

<p>Common side effects of coronavirus vaccines till now have been sore arm, light fever, fatigue and in some cases nausea. However, a study has now revealed that vaccines can also bring changes in menstrual cycle.</p>

<p>Experts working in reproductive health have reported that several of their patients have experienced changes in their periods and have also experienced sudden vaginal bleeding.</p>

<p>Women have experienced sudden change in length of their menstrual cycles. Some also had heavier bleeding immediately after their vaccines.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-pregnancy-breastfeeding-and-vaccines-lets-help-in-breaking-myths-for-new-mothers-390613">Covid, pregnancy, breastfeeding and vaccines: Let's help in breaking myths for new mothers</a></strong></p>

<p>It is not just the vaccines; some women have also reported changes in their menstrual cycle immediately after getting infected by coronavirus and also in cases of Long Covid.</p>

<p>However, some experts are still not very sure about a connection between the coronavirus vaccines and changes in menstrual cycle. Media experts believe it may be due to weakening of the immune system at the time of vaccination of infection, that leads to painful and delayed menstrual cycles.</p>

<p>Such claims can also increase already-existing vaccine hesitancy among women, expert claim. Several doctors around the globe have called for detailed research on the connection between Covid vaccines and menstrual cycles.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" hreflang="en">COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant</a></strong></p>

<p>"Vaccine hesitancy among young women is largely driven by false claims that Covid-19 vaccines could harm their chances of future pregnancy,"&nbsp;Dr Victoria Male, a researcher from the Imperial College, London said in an opinion piece. "Failing to thoroughly investigate reports of menstrual changes after vaccination is likely to fuel these fears. If a link between vaccination and menstrual changes is confirmed, this information will allow people to plan for potentially altered cycles."</p>

<p>With this new claim, experts have also reiterated that Covid vaccines do not hinder in fertility or chances of pregnancy, contrary to what some people have believed in the past.</p>

<p>Experts are urging women to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible, and abandon fears of infertility.</p>

<p>"There is no evidence to suggest that these temporary changes will have any impact on a person's future fertility, or their ability to have children," Dr Jo Mountfield, vice-president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), said.</p>


Common side effects of coronavirus vaccines till now have been sore arm, light fever, fatigue and in some cases nausea. However, a study has now revealed that vaccines can also bring changes in menstrual cycle.

Common side effects of coronavirus vaccines till now have been sore arm, light fever, fatigue and in some cases nausea. However, a study has now revealed that vaccines can also bring changes in menstrual cycle. Experts working in reproductive health have reported that several of their patients have experienced changes in their periods and have also experienced sudden vaginal bleeding. Women have experienced sudden change in length of their menstrual cycles. Some also had heavier bleeding immediately after their vaccines. Also read | Covid, pregnancy, breastfeeding and vaccines: Let's help in breaking myths for new mothers It is not just the vaccines; some women have also reported changes in their menstrual cycle immediately after getting infected by coronavirus and also in cases of Long Covid. However, some experts are still not very sure about a connection between the coronavirus vaccines and changes in menstrual cycle. Media experts believe it may be due to weakening of the immune system at the time of vaccination of infection, that leads to painful and delayed menstrual cycles. Such claims can also increase already-existing vaccine hesitancy among women, expert claim. Several doctors around the globe have called for detailed research on the connection between Covid vaccines and menstrual cycles. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant "Vaccine hesitancy among young women is largely driven by false claims that Covid-19 vaccines could harm their chances of future pregnancy," Dr Victoria Male, a researcher from the Imperial College, London said in an opinion piece. "Failing to thoroughly investigate reports of menstrual changes after vaccination is likely to fuel these fears. If a link between vaccination and menstrual changes is confirmed, this information will allow people to plan for potentially altered cycles." With this new claim, experts have also reiterated that Covid vaccines do not hinder in fertility or chances of pregnancy, contrary to what some people have believed in the past. Experts are urging women to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible, and abandon fears of infertility. "There is no evidence to suggest that these temporary changes will have any impact on a person's future fertility, or their ability to have children," Dr Jo Mountfield, vice-president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), said.

Are Covid vaccines adversely affecting menstrual cycles? Here's the truth

<p>Sri Lankan women were urged to delay getting pregnant after more than 40 expectant mothers died of Covid-19 in four months, the health ministry said Thursday.</p>

<p>The island nation, which recorded its first maternal coronavirus death in May, is battling a spike in Delta variant infections after travel restrictions were eased for local new year celebrations in mid-April.</p>

<p>"Usually, we have 90 to 100 maternal deaths a year, but since the start of the third wave we have recorded 41 deaths of pregnant women from Covid alone," Chitramali de Silva, a director of the government's Health Promotion Bureau, told AFP.</p>

<p>Government obstetrician and gynaecologist Harsha Atapattu said he was urging "newlyweds, as well as those who are trying to have a baby, to delay it by at least a year because of the risks of Covid-19".</p>

<p>De Silva said about 5,500 expectant mothers had been infected. About 70 percent were fully vaccinated, he added.</p>

<p>Experts have urged pregnant women to get the jab, with Sri Lankan health officials stating the Delta variant appears to increase their risk of severe symptoms.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-extends-covid-curbs-in-tokyo-till-september-end-411864"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end</strong></a></p>

<p>The nation of 21 million people has been under a lightly imposed lockdown since August that the government expects to lift in mid-September.</p>

<p>But World Health Organisation experts in Sri Lanka have called for tougher restrictions until the start of October.</p>

<p>Hospitals have been overwhelmed during the surge, despite efforts to speed up the vaccination drive with nearly half of the total population receiving two doses.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka has recorded nearly 475,000 infections and more than 10,500 deaths from Covid-19, but doctors say the actual figures could be much higher due to under-reporting.</p>


Sri Lankan women were urged to delay getting pregnant after more than 40 expectant mothers died of Covid-19 in four months, the health ministry said Thursday. The island nation, which recorded its first maternal coronavirus death in May, is battling a spike in Delta variant infections after travel restrictions were eased for local new year celebrations in mid-April.

Sri Lankan women were urged to delay getting pregnant after more than 40 expectant mothers died of Covid-19 in four months, the health ministry said Thursday. The island nation, which recorded its first maternal coronavirus death in May, is battling a spike in Delta variant infections after travel restrictions were eased for local new year celebrations in mid-April. "Usually, we have 90 to 100 maternal deaths a year, but since the start of the third wave we have recorded 41 deaths of pregnant women from Covid alone," Chitramali de Silva, a director of the government's Health Promotion Bureau, told AFP. Government obstetrician and gynaecologist Harsha Atapattu said he was urging "newlyweds, as well as those who are trying to have a baby, to delay it by at least a year because of the risks of Covid-19". De Silva said about 5,500 expectant mothers had been infected. About 70 percent were fully vaccinated, he added. Experts have urged pregnant women to get the jab, with Sri Lankan health officials stating the Delta variant appears to increase their risk of severe symptoms. Also read | Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end The nation of 21 million people has been under a lightly imposed lockdown since August that the government expects to lift in mid-September. But World Health Organisation experts in Sri Lanka have called for tougher restrictions until the start of October. Hospitals have been overwhelmed during the surge, despite efforts to speed up the vaccination drive with nearly half of the total population receiving two doses. Sri Lanka has recorded nearly 475,000 infections and more than 10,500 deaths from Covid-19, but doctors say the actual figures could be much higher due to under-reporting.

Sri Lanka asks women to delay pregnancy over COVID-19 risks

<p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced it has found new evidence which strongly recommends that pregnant people should get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible.</p>

<p>"CDC recommends that pregnant people should be vaccinated against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, based on new evidence about the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for all people 12 years and older, including people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant now or might become pregnant in the future,"&nbsp;CDC said in new guidance.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-pregnancy-breastfeeding-and-vaccines-lets-help-in-breaking-myths-for-new-mothers-390613" hreflang="en">Covid, pregnancy, breastfeeding and vaccines: Let's help in breaking myths for new mothers</a></strong></p>

<p>New research has proved that pregnant people can receive mRNA <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> without any increased risk to themselves or their babies.</p>

<p>CDC scientists have concluded that if pregnant people get vaccinated within 20 weeks of pregnancy, there will be no extra risk of miscarriage, contrary to a prior belief.</p>

<p>"In a new analysis of current data from the v-safe pregnancy registry, scientists did not find an increased risk for miscarriage among people who received an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine before 20 weeks of pregnancy. This adds to the growing evidence of the safety of these vaccines,"&nbsp;CDC added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" hreflang="en">COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant</a></strong></p>

<p>As of now, pregnant people are asked to get vaccinated if they are eligible. However, the public had major doubts about their safety, as well as their baby’s safety and wellbeing. This new guidance, however, has backed the claim with new and more promising data that provides more safety assurances.</p>

<p>This new assurance has also come as several recent studies and observations have proved that pregnant people are more likely to be hospitalised due to Coivd and face more chances of getting admitted to Intensive Care units (ICU).</p>


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced it has found new evidence which strongly recommends that pregnant people should get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced it has found new evidence which strongly recommends that pregnant people should get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible. "CDC recommends that pregnant people should be vaccinated against COVID-19, based on new evidence about the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for all people 12 years and older, including people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant now or might become pregnant in the future," CDC said in new guidance. Also read | Covid, pregnancy, breastfeeding and vaccines: Let's help in breaking myths for new mothers New research has proved that pregnant people can receive mRNA vaccines without any increased risk to themselves or their babies. CDC scientists have concluded that if pregnant people get vaccinated within 20 weeks of pregnancy, there will be no extra risk of miscarriage, contrary to a prior belief. "In a new analysis of current data from the v-safe pregnancy registry, scientists did not find an increased risk for miscarriage among people who received an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine before 20 weeks of pregnancy. This adds to the growing evidence of the safety of these vaccines," CDC added. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant As of now, pregnant people are asked to get vaccinated if they are eligible. However, the public had major doubts about their safety, as well as their baby’s safety and wellbeing. This new guidance, however, has backed the claim with new and more promising data that provides more safety assurances. This new assurance has also come as several recent studies and observations have proved that pregnant people are more likely to be hospitalised due to Coivd and face more chances of getting admitted to Intensive Care units (ICU).

Pregnant people should get vaccinated soon to protect their babies: CDC

<p>On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week (first week of August), experts from various organisations highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and addressed concerns related to breastfeeding, COVID vaccination for expectant mothers, etc.</p>

<p>Pointing out that breastfeeding is the foundation of life, experts went on to say that, breastmilk is the first and best defense a newborn has against illness, disease, and death since it is their first vaccination.</p>

<p>"It optimally helps prevent malnutrition in all of its forms, with long-term benefits for both children and mothers. Breastfed babies have a reduced risk of non-communicable illnesses as adults and are more likely to have a higher IQ. Breastfeeding additionally improves the mother-infant bond while lowering the mother's risk of, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and ovarian and breast cancer, " it &nbsp;said.</p>

<p>According to Dr&nbsp;Mangala Wani, President BPNI (Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India) Maharashtra, "Until now, Covid-19 infection has not been found in breast milk. Therefore, new mothers can breastfeed their babies even if they are suffering from Covid infection. It is entirely safe to do so." However, she cautions that wearing masks, following hand and respiratory hygiene should be maintained to prevent infection via talking, coughing and sneezing.</p>

<p>Regarding vaccination of pregnant women, experts say it has been approved based on the recommendations of the NTAGI (National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation). Under the condition that(pregnant women) are informed about the risk of COVID-19 exposure, as well as the risks and benefits associated with COVID-19 vaccines.</p>

<p>"There is no need to restrict or modify breastfeeding schedules before or after vaccination and even during mild common adverse effects like fever and unwell feeling. Evidence shows that the advantages of breastfeeding exceed the dangers of transmission," says Dr. Ketan Bharadva, Chairperson of IYCF (Infant and Young Child Feeding). He adds that antibodies present in breastmilk may aid in the battle against COVID-19 if a newborn is exposed.</p>

<p>Experts emphasised the need to have front-line community workers assist and counsel women and families to clear any myths and misconceptions that may exist in regard of infant care amid the pandemic.</p>


On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week (first week of August), experts from various organisations highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and addressed concerns related to breastfeeding, COVID vaccination for expectant mothers, etc.

On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week (first week of August), experts from various organisations highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and addressed concerns related to breastfeeding, COVID vaccination for expectant mothers, etc. Pointing out that breastfeeding is the foundation of life, experts went on to say that, breastmilk is the first and best defense a newborn has against illness, disease, and death since it is their first vaccination. "It optimally helps prevent malnutrition in all of its forms, with long-term benefits for both children and mothers. Breastfed babies have a reduced risk of non-communicable illnesses as adults and are more likely to have a higher IQ. Breastfeeding additionally improves the mother-infant bond while lowering the mother's risk of, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and ovarian and breast cancer, " it said. According to Dr Mangala Wani, President BPNI (Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India) Maharashtra, "Until now, Covid-19 infection has not been found in breast milk. Therefore, new mothers can breastfeed their babies even if they are suffering from Covid infection. It is entirely safe to do so." However, she cautions that wearing masks, following hand and respiratory hygiene should be maintained to prevent infection via talking, coughing and sneezing. Regarding vaccination of pregnant women, experts say it has been approved based on the recommendations of the NTAGI (National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation). Under the condition that(pregnant women) are informed about the risk of COVID-19 exposure, as well as the risks and benefits associated with COVID-19 vaccines. "There is no need to restrict or modify breastfeeding schedules before or after vaccination and even during mild common adverse effects like fever and unwell feeling. Evidence shows that the advantages of breastfeeding exceed the dangers of transmission," says Dr. Ketan Bharadva, Chairperson of IYCF (Infant and Young Child Feeding). He adds that antibodies present in breastmilk may aid in the battle against COVID-19 if a newborn is exposed. Experts emphasised the need to have front-line community workers assist and counsel women and families to clear any myths and misconceptions that may exist in regard of infant care amid the pandemic.

No need to restrict breastfeeding before or after COVID-19 vaccination: Experts

<p>The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone around the world, but it has been worse for the people who suffer from chronic diseases or for pregnant women who are concerned about not only getting infected but also about passing on the infection to their newborns.</p>

<p>Here, we answer several questions in the minds of expectant mothers on Covid, and break myths in this regard.&nbsp;</p>

<h4><strong>Risks during pregnancy</strong></h4>

<p>Pregnant ladies carry less risk of getting infected by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus?page=1"><strong>coronavirus </strong></a>&nbsp;if they stay indoors and limit their social contact. However, people who do contract COVID-19 during their pregnancy carry a higher risk of developing respiratory complications. Pregnant women&nbsp;also carry a higher risk of being out on a ventilator, in comparison to others.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-health-worries-for-children-born-to-mothers-given-seasonal-flu-vaccine-in-pregnancy-study-390256" hreflang="en">No health worries for children born to mothers given seasonal flu vaccine in pregnancy: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>The risk is more in the third trimester for pregnant women, all over the world.</p>

<p>One major concern for all expectant mothers&nbsp;and their families is the timely delivery of the baby. However, there are higher chances of premature birth and cesarean delivery, if the mother has been infected by the deadly coronavirus.</p>

<p>Experts advise pregnant people to take extra precautions during and immediately after their pregnancy. Women are advised to identify and quickly act on the symptoms such as common cold, nausea, fever, dry cough, etc.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fatigue-ptsd-depression-and-more-heres-how-to-fight-post-covid-problems-390332" hreflang="en">Fatigue, PTSD, depression and more: Here's how to fight post-Covid problems</a></strong></p>

<p>Pregnant people, if infected by coronavirus, are advised to intake a lot of fluids at normal temperature and go on complete bed rest to avoid tiring the body. If a pregnant woman, in such a case, experiences fatigue or tiredness, her immune system can weaken further and the virus might more strongly attack the body, thus leading to severe negative effects.</p>

<h4><strong>Prepping for delivery</strong></h4>

<p>One thing to take care of, a few days before delivering the baby, is that the mother and her support person have to be screened for the deadly virus. Experts advise the new mother and her support person to stay indoors, limit communication and follow a healthy diet a few weeks before the delivery, to make sure they do not get infected in any case.</p>

<p>The mother and her support will be screened for the virus a couple of days before the scheduled delivery and also a few hours before entering the delivery room.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-one-third-of-british-people-prefer-to-stay-indoors-reveals-a-new-survey-390302" hreflang="en">COVID-19: One-third of British people prefer to stay indoors, reveals a new survey</a></strong></p>

<h4><strong>Postpartum care</strong></h4>

<p>While making sure the baby is born healthy, it is also very important to care for the newborn against the coronavirus. There have been reported cases around the world where newborns have been infected by the deadly virus.</p>

<p>After giving birth, mothers should try and schedule virtual appointments with their doctors to avoid contact with the outside world.</p>

<p>Mothers are also advised to take care of their mental health post-pregnancy as there are higher chances of postpartum depression in the current scenario of extended lockdowns.</p>

<p>Another bigger concern for new mothers is the fear of putting the newborn in danger through breastfeeding. Health experts and researchers suggest that breast milk isn’t likely to infect the baby.</p>

<p><strong>Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/explained-european-covid-19-travel-certificate-us-considers-own-vaccine-passport-390357" hreflang="en">Explained: European COVID-19 travel certificate; US considers own vaccine&nbsp;passport</a></strong></p>

<p>However, there are still no sure answers on whether covid-infected mothers can breastfeed their newborn or not. There are fears of the virus spreading through respiratory droplets while breastfeeding. To avoid this, for now, experts suggest covid-infected mothers wear a face mask at all times when in close vicinity with the baby and regularly wash their hands before and after touching the baby, or anything related to him/her.</p>

<h4><strong>Does Covid infection in mothers have an effect on babies?</strong></h4>

<p>Researchers believe if a mother is infected with coronavirus, there are fewer chances of the virus being passed to the baby in her stomach, and it is unlikely that it will hinder the baby’s development. It has also been observed that COVID-19 does not increase the chances of miscarriages.</p>

<p>While there have been cases where the newborns have been born with the infection, it is a rare happening and the doctors advise limiting visitation for the newborn to make sure he/she does not catch the infection from any visitor.</p>

<h4><strong>Vaccines during pregnancy</strong></h4>

<p>There is no evidence that suggests the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1"><strong>coronavirus vaccines</strong></a> are unsafe for pregnant people. However, researchers suggest people should opt for Moderna and Pfizer, instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine.</p>

<p>Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are mRNA vaccines that do not contain the live virus that causes COVID-19 and has less to no chances of infecting someone with the deadly virus. Experts have also concluded that the mRNA vaccines do not engage with human DNA and, thus, there are no genetic changes.</p>

<p>However, health experts strictly advise pregnant people to stick to bed rest and not exert themselves to avoid contracting coronavirus. They are also advised to strictly limit their contact with outsiders and wear masks if stepping outdoors.</p>

<p>The vaccines are also safe for mothers who are breastfeeding or lactating. Some also believe that the vaccines can develop antibodies that can further protect the babies against the virus. However, the claim has not been proven by medical experts yet.</p>

<p>Normal flu vaccines are also safe and advised for pregnant people. In fact, taking flu vaccines is advised, with or without covid, to avoid getting infected by common cold or any other form of flu.</p>


The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone around the world, but it has been worse for the people who suffer from chronic diseases or for pregnant women who are concerned about not only getting infected but also about passing on the infection to their newborns.

The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone around the world, but it has been worse for the people who suffer from chronic diseases or for pregnant women who are concerned about not only getting infected but also about passing on the infection to their newborns. Here, we answer several questions in the minds of expectant mothers on Covid, and break myths in this regard. Risks during pregnancy Pregnant ladies carry less risk of getting infected by the coronavirus if they stay indoors and limit their social contact. However, people who do contract COVID-19 during their pregnancy carry a higher risk of developing respiratory complications. Pregnant women also carry a higher risk of being out on a ventilator, in comparison to others. Also read | No health worries for children born to mothers given seasonal flu vaccine in pregnancy: Study The risk is more in the third trimester for pregnant women, all over the world. One major concern for all expectant mothers and their families is the timely delivery of the baby. However, there are higher chances of premature birth and cesarean delivery, if the mother has been infected by the deadly coronavirus. Experts advise pregnant people to take extra precautions during and immediately after their pregnancy. Women are advised to identify and quickly act on the symptoms such as common cold, nausea, fever, dry cough, etc. Also read | Fatigue, PTSD, depression and more: Here's how to fight post-Covid problems Pregnant people, if infected by coronavirus, are advised to intake a lot of fluids at normal temperature and go on complete bed rest to avoid tiring the body. If a pregnant woman, in such a case, experiences fatigue or tiredness, her immune system can weaken further and the virus might more strongly attack the body, thus leading to severe negative effects. Prepping for delivery One thing to take care of, a few days before delivering the baby, is that the mother and her support person have to be screened for the deadly virus. Experts advise the new mother and her support person to stay indoors, limit communication and follow a healthy diet a few weeks before the delivery, to make sure they do not get infected in any case. The mother and her support will be screened for the virus a couple of days before the scheduled delivery and also a few hours before entering the delivery room. Also read | COVID-19: One-third of British people prefer to stay indoors, reveals a new survey Postpartum care While making sure the baby is born healthy, it is also very important to care for the newborn against the coronavirus. There have been reported cases around the world where newborns have been infected by the deadly virus. After giving birth, mothers should try and schedule virtual appointments with their doctors to avoid contact with the outside world. Mothers are also advised to take care of their mental health post-pregnancy as there are higher chances of postpartum depression in the current scenario of extended lockdowns. Another bigger concern for new mothers is the fear of putting the newborn in danger through breastfeeding. Health experts and researchers suggest that breast milk isn’t likely to infect the baby. Have a look | Explained: European COVID-19 travel certificate; US considers own vaccine passport However, there are still no sure answers on whether covid-infected mothers can breastfeed their newborn or not. There are fears of the virus spreading through respiratory droplets while breastfeeding. To avoid this, for now, experts suggest covid-infected mothers wear a face mask at all times when in close vicinity with the baby and regularly wash their hands before and after touching the baby, or anything related to him/her. Does Covid infection in mothers have an effect on babies? Researchers believe if a mother is infected with coronavirus, there are fewer chances of the virus being passed to the baby in her stomach, and it is unlikely that it will hinder the baby’s development. It has also been observed that COVID-19 does not increase the chances of miscarriages. While there have been cases where the newborns have been born with the infection, it is a rare happening and the doctors advise limiting visitation for the newborn to make sure he/she does not catch the infection from any visitor. Vaccines during pregnancy There is no evidence that suggests the coronavirus vaccines are unsafe for pregnant people. However, researchers suggest people should opt for Moderna and Pfizer, instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are mRNA vaccines that do not contain the live virus that causes COVID-19 and has less to no chances of infecting someone with the deadly virus. Experts have also concluded that the mRNA vaccines do not engage with human DNA and, thus, there are no genetic changes. However, health experts strictly advise pregnant people to stick to bed rest and not exert themselves to avoid contracting coronavirus. They are also advised to strictly limit their contact with outsiders and wear masks if stepping outdoors. The vaccines are also safe for mothers who are breastfeeding or lactating. Some also believe that the vaccines can develop antibodies that can further protect the babies against the virus. However, the claim has not been proven by medical experts yet. Normal flu vaccines are also safe and advised for pregnant people. In fact, taking flu vaccines is advised, with or without covid, to avoid getting infected by common cold or any other form of flu.

Covid, pregnancy, breastfeeding and vaccines: Let's help in breaking myths for new mothers

<p>A population-based study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), has found flu vaccination during pregnancy does not lead to an increased risk of adverse early childhood health outcomes.<br />
<br />
Although pregnant people are not more susceptible to acquiring influenza infection, they are at an increased risk of severe illness and complications if they get the flu during pregnancy.<br />
<br />
For this reason, all pregnant people are advised to receive a flu shot each year, yet only 36 per cent received it according to a study monitoring four flu seasons in Nova Scotia. Safety concerns are reportedly a leading reason people may not receive influenza vaccination in pregnancy.<br />
<br />
Dr Deshayne Fell, an Associate Professor of Epidemiology in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa and a Scientist at the CHEO Research Institute, a pediatric healthcare and research centre, led the study along with researchers in Ontario and at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia.<br />
<br />
The study followed over 28,000 children from birth up to an average age of 3.5 years, with the results suggesting that maternal influenza vaccination during pregnancy was not associated with:- Immune-related health conditions, such as asthma, ear infections or other types of infection.- Non-immune-related health problems like neoplasms, sensory impairment.- Nonspecific health needs such as Emergency Department visits and hospitalizations did not increase.<br />
<br />
"This study adds to what we know from other recent studies showing no harmful effects of flu vaccination during pregnancy on the longer-term health of children," says Dr Fell, whose other recent work includes studying the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy.<br />
<br />
She added, "This is important because we know that getting the flu shot during pregnancy not only protects the pregnant person but has the added bonus of protecting newborn babies from getting the flu during their first few months of life, which is when they are most susceptible to respiratory infections but still too young to get the flu shot themselves."The study, Association of Maternal Influenza Vaccination During Pregnancy with Early Childhood Health Outcomes, is published in JAMA.</p>


A population-based study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), has found flu vaccination during pregnancy does not lead to an increased risk of adverse early childhood health outcomes.

A population-based study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), has found flu vaccination during pregnancy does not lead to an increased risk of adverse early childhood health outcomes. Although pregnant people are not more susceptible to acquiring influenza infection, they are at an increased risk of severe illness and complications if they get the flu during pregnancy. For this reason, all pregnant people are advised to receive a flu shot each year, yet only 36 per cent received it according to a study monitoring four flu seasons in Nova Scotia. Safety concerns are reportedly a leading reason people may not receive influenza vaccination in pregnancy. Dr Deshayne Fell, an Associate Professor of Epidemiology in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa and a Scientist at the CHEO Research Institute, a pediatric healthcare and research centre, led the study along with researchers in Ontario and at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia. The study followed over 28,000 children from birth up to an average age of 3.5 years, with the results suggesting that maternal influenza vaccination during pregnancy was not associated with:- Immune-related health conditions, such as asthma, ear infections or other types of infection.- Non-immune-related health problems like neoplasms, sensory impairment.- Nonspecific health needs such as Emergency Department visits and hospitalizations did not increase. "This study adds to what we know from other recent studies showing no harmful effects of flu vaccination during pregnancy on the longer-term health of children," says Dr Fell, whose other recent work includes studying the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy. She added, "This is important because we know that getting the flu shot during pregnancy not only protects the pregnant person but has the added bonus of protecting newborn babies from getting the flu during their first few months of life, which is when they are most susceptible to respiratory infections but still too young to get the flu shot themselves."The study, Association of Maternal Influenza Vaccination During Pregnancy with Early Childhood Health Outcomes, is published in JAMA.

No health worries for children born to mothers given seasonal flu vaccine in pregnancy: Study

<p>There is no space for hatred comments on the popular social media account, Twitter, and a Spanish politician has fallen prey to it for writing "a man can’t get pregnant".</p>

<p>Francisco Jose Contreras is a member of the right-win Vox party. His Twitter account was recently suspended for violation of the hate speech policy of the platform.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-down-users-freak-out-after-social-media-platform-stops-working-378162" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-down-users-freak-out-after-social-media-platform-stops-working-378162&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd45K56d_wAhV-zDgGHSn1AxcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1WyQBFhExy3kBVQ9sfQo2w" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-down-users-freak-out-after-social-media-platform-stops-working-378162" target="_blank">Twitter&nbsp;down! Users freak out after social media platform stops</a></strong></p>

<p>Contreras had recently shared an article about a transgender man who had given birth. However, the politician voiced his opinions against it saying men cannot give birth as they have "no uterus or eggs".</p>

<p>Due to his comment, Twitter decided to suspend his account for 12 hours but the politician decided to vent out his anger and explain his side through a Facebook post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/heres-how-you-can-get-twitters-blue-check-mark-after-verification-freeze-386342">Here's how you can get Twitter's blue check mark after verification freeze</a></strong></p>

<p>"I've been blocked from my Twitter account for 12 hours for 'hate speech.' The tweet in which I incited hatred (which I have been forced to remove) was one that said: 'a man cannot get pregnant. A man has no uterus or eggs.;' This is already fascist biology. Next time I'll try 2 +2 = 4," he posted on Facebook.</p>

<p>Twitter justified its decision by stating that the politician has violated a policy that limits the spread of material that threatens or promotes violence against others based on their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender.</p>


There is no space for hatred comments on the popular social media account, Twitter, and a Spanish politician has fallen prey to it for writing "a man can’t get pregnant".

There is no space for hatred comments on the popular social media account, Twitter, and a Spanish politician has fallen prey to it for writing "a man can’t get pregnant". Francisco Jose Contreras is a member of the right-win Vox party. His Twitter account was recently suspended for violation of the hate speech policy of the platform. Also read | Twitter down! Users freak out after social media platform stops Contreras had recently shared an article about a transgender man who had given birth. However, the politician voiced his opinions against it saying men cannot give birth as they have "no uterus or eggs". Due to his comment, Twitter decided to suspend his account for 12 hours but the politician decided to vent out his anger and explain his side through a Facebook post. Also read | Here's how you can get Twitter's blue check mark after verification freeze "I've been blocked from my Twitter account for 12 hours for 'hate speech.' The tweet in which I incited hatred (which I have been forced to remove) was one that said: 'a man cannot get pregnant. A man has no uterus or eggs.;' This is already fascist biology. Next time I'll try 2 +2 = 4," he posted on Facebook. Twitter justified its decision by stating that the politician has violated a policy that limits the spread of material that threatens or promotes violence against others based on their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender.

Spanish politician's Twitter account suspended for saying 'men can't get pregnant'

<p>India is one of the first countries to legalize abortions. Abortions became legal in India under certain conditions only in 1971. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 (“MTP Act”) was passed due to the progress made in the field of medical science with respect to safer abortions. Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020 (“the Bill”) amends the MTP Act, 1971 and was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 2nd March 2020 and passed on 17th March 2020. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereafter, Rajya Sabha passed the said bill after much deliberation on 16th March 2021. Presently, it awaits the President’s assent for it to become a law. It is pertinent to state that this Bill was presented in the Parliament before and lapsed thrice, in 2014, 2017 and 2018.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Many Writ Petitions were filed by women activists who sought permission to abort after 20 weeks due to rape or foetal abnormalities. It is commonly reported by gynecologists that severe congenital abnormalities only show up after 20 weeks and such pregnancy cannot be legally terminated under the MPT Act,1971. The new Bill aims to resolve this issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bill was drafted after extensive consultation with various leading NGO’s, Indian Medical Association, the Gynecologist Associations etc., along with ethics committee. &nbsp;The amendment has given a respite to women who are rape survivors, differently-abled, minors, victims of incest etc.</p>

<p>The Bombay High Court, in a petition by Niketa Mehta, held that an abortion of a 24 week old fetus, which had a congenital heart defect, to be in contravention of the MTP Act, 1971, which was also later affirmed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. &nbsp;</p>

<p>This case raised issues around abortion laws after 20 weeks and the upbringing of a child suffering from incurable defects. This case shed light on the loopholes in the MTP Act, 1971 and prompted the government to reconsider abortion laws in the country.</p>

<p>The Bill regulates the state of pregnancy, specifically focussing on the increase of the time limit for abortion. Prior to the amendment, abortion undertaken within 12 weeks of conception required the opinion of a doctor and when done between 12-20 weeks, required the opinion of two doctors. The current MTP Act, 1971 does not have any provision for abortion after 20 weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the amendment now allows an abortion to be done up to 20 weeks with only one doctor’s advice instead of two and two doctor’s advice in between 20-24 weeks in special cases. Additionally, the Bill also gives authority to States, to decide if a pregnancy may be terminated due to foetal abnormalities after 24 weeks, by way of setting up State-level Medical Boards. The said Board is to consist of a Paediatrician, Radiologist/ Sinologist, Gynecologist and other such members notified by the concerned State Government.</p>

<p>Countries all over the world have put limitations and differing time frames for allowing abortions which are based on the health of the mother and the foetus, along with the possible risk to the mother. One strong viewpoint that is put forth by this Bill is that the State has an obligation to protect all life forms, which also includes that of a foetus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bill gives relief in this aspect by permitting termination of pregnancy after 24 weeks after the approval of the Medical Board, on diagnosis of foetal abnormalities. Having said that, in cases of rape exceeding 24 weeks of pregnancy, only recourse left was to approach the courts through a Writ Petition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both, the Act and the Bill, specify that abortion should only be performed by gynecologists or obstetricians and not by untrained persons, which commonly happens in rural areas, where there is a shortage of doctors. As for the privacy of the woman is concerned, the registered medical practitioner is permitted to reveal the details of the patient to only a person who has been authorized by law. Upon violation, the violating medical official is liable to be imprisoned for a year, or fined, or both.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to extending the time frame for terminating pregnancy, the Central Government has also taken a progressive outlook on women, keeping in mind the current changing times. The Bill mentions “woman” and “her partner” instead of a “married woman” and “her husband”, showcasing open-mindedness of the society. &nbsp;The Central Government acknowledges the failure of contraception as well. It further gives relief to women undergoing stress of getting permissions from various courts due to the pressing time factor in pregnancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is noteworthy that India is the first country to pass a legislation which gives mothers and their partners the right to a paid leave following a miscarriage or stillbirth, followed by New Zealand in 2021. More specifically, the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 1961, extends miscarriage leave to six weeks of paid leave. Even today, countries such as the UK, United States of America, Brazil and Germany do not give as much autonomy to a pregnant woman as does India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is commendable that the Central Government has taken such a bold stand while balancing the diverse cultures, traditions and schools of thought that our country maintains. With the hope of this Bill turning into an Amendment, one can be assured that the country is on the road to advancement, addressing women issues more fiercely than ever.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>


India is one of the first countries to legalize abortions. Abortions became legal in India under certain conditions only in 1971. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 (“MTP Act”) was passed due to the progress made in the field of medical science with respect to safer abortions.

India is one of the first countries to legalize abortions. Abortions became legal in India under certain conditions only in 1971. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 (“MTP Act”) was passed due to the progress made in the field of medical science with respect to safer abortions. Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020 (“the Bill”) amends the MTP Act, 1971 and was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 2nd March 2020 and passed on 17th March 2020. Thereafter, Rajya Sabha passed the said bill after much deliberation on 16th March 2021. Presently, it awaits the President’s assent for it to become a law. It is pertinent to state that this Bill was presented in the Parliament before and lapsed thrice, in 2014, 2017 and 2018. Many Writ Petitions were filed by women activists who sought permission to abort after 20 weeks due to rape or foetal abnormalities. It is commonly reported by gynecologists that severe congenital abnormalities only show up after 20 weeks and such pregnancy cannot be legally terminated under the MPT Act,1971. The new Bill aims to resolve this issue. The Bill was drafted after extensive consultation with various leading NGO’s, Indian Medical Association, the Gynecologist Associations etc., along with ethics committee. The amendment has given a respite to women who are rape survivors, differently-abled, minors, victims of incest etc. The Bombay High Court, in a petition by Niketa Mehta, held that an abortion of a 24 week old fetus, which had a congenital heart defect, to be in contravention of the MTP Act, 1971, which was also later affirmed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. This case raised issues around abortion laws after 20 weeks and the upbringing of a child suffering from incurable defects. This case shed light on the loopholes in the MTP Act, 1971 and prompted the government to reconsider abortion laws in the country. The Bill regulates the state of pregnancy, specifically focussing on the increase of the time limit for abortion. Prior to the amendment, abortion undertaken within 12 weeks of conception required the opinion of a doctor and when done between 12-20 weeks, required the opinion of two doctors. The current MTP Act, 1971 does not have any provision for abortion after 20 weeks. However, the amendment now allows an abortion to be done up to 20 weeks with only one doctor’s advice instead of two and two doctor’s advice in between 20-24 weeks in special cases. Additionally, the Bill also gives authority to States, to decide if a pregnancy may be terminated due to foetal abnormalities after 24 weeks, by way of setting up State-level Medical Boards. The said Board is to consist of a Paediatrician, Radiologist/ Sinologist, Gynecologist and other such members notified by the concerned State Government. Countries all over the world have put limitations and differing time frames for allowing abortions which are based on the health of the mother and the foetus, along with the possible risk to the mother. One strong viewpoint that is put forth by this Bill is that the State has an obligation to protect all life forms, which also includes that of a foetus. The Bill gives relief in this aspect by permitting termination of pregnancy after 24 weeks after the approval of the Medical Board, on diagnosis of foetal abnormalities. Having said that, in cases of rape exceeding 24 weeks of pregnancy, only recourse left was to approach the courts through a Writ Petition. Both, the Act and the Bill, specify that abortion should only be performed by gynecologists or obstetricians and not by untrained persons, which commonly happens in rural areas, where there is a shortage of doctors. As for the privacy of the woman is concerned, the registered medical practitioner is permitted to reveal the details of the patient to only a person who has been authorized by law. Upon violation, the violating medical official is liable to be imprisoned for a year, or fined, or both. In addition to extending the time frame for terminating pregnancy, the Central Government has also taken a progressive outlook on women, keeping in mind the current changing times. The Bill mentions “woman” and “her partner” instead of a “married woman” and “her husband”, showcasing open-mindedness of the society. The Central Government acknowledges the failure of contraception as well. It further gives relief to women undergoing stress of getting permissions from various courts due to the pressing time factor in pregnancy. It is noteworthy that India is the first country to pass a legislation which gives mothers and their partners the right to a paid leave following a miscarriage or stillbirth, followed by New Zealand in 2021. More specifically, the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 1961, extends miscarriage leave to six weeks of paid leave. Even today, countries such as the UK, United States of America, Brazil and Germany do not give as much autonomy to a pregnant woman as does India. It is commendable that the Central Government has taken such a bold stand while balancing the diverse cultures, traditions and schools of thought that our country maintains. With the hope of this Bill turning into an Amendment, one can be assured that the country is on the road to advancement, addressing women issues more fiercely than ever. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020: A Short Analysis

<p>The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now officially recommended that pregnant women get the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Director Dr Rochelle Walensky said in a White House press briefing that "CDC recommends that pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccine."</p>

<p>She said that vaccination surveillance systems showed "no safety concerns" for more than 35,000 women in their third trimester or their babies.</p>

<p>After an analysis of data on more than 35,000 women who have been vaccinated with either Pfizer's or Moderna's shots, the health body decided to issue the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It found no increase in risks of complications, premature delivery, miscarriage or other issues among women who got the shots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Pregnant people experienced the same side effects as others following vaccination. We were also able to follow in detail more than 3,900 pregnant women. And over 800 of whom have completed their pregnancies. Importantly, no safety concerns were observed for people vaccinated in the third trimester or safety concerns for their babies," she said.</p>

<p>"We know that this is a deeply personal decision," she added, "and I encourage people to talk to their doctors and their primary care providers to determine what is best for them and their baby."</p>

<p>She further explained that because the initial vaccine trials did not include pregnant women, there had been limited data on possible problems. As a result, different health authorities and professional medical groups had offered cautious, or even conflicting, guidance.</p>

<p>In total, The United States had administered 228,661,408 doses of COVID-19 vaccines as of Sunday morning and distributed 290,692,005 doses.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now officially recommended that pregnant women get the COVID-19 vaccine. Director Dr Rochelle Walensky said in a White House press briefing that "CDC recommends that pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now officially recommended that pregnant women get the COVID-19 vaccine. Director Dr Rochelle Walensky said in a White House press briefing that "CDC recommends that pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccine." She said that vaccination surveillance systems showed "no safety concerns" for more than 35,000 women in their third trimester or their babies. After an analysis of data on more than 35,000 women who have been vaccinated with either Pfizer's or Moderna's shots, the health body decided to issue the statement. It found no increase in risks of complications, premature delivery, miscarriage or other issues among women who got the shots. "Pregnant people experienced the same side effects as others following vaccination. We were also able to follow in detail more than 3,900 pregnant women. And over 800 of whom have completed their pregnancies. Importantly, no safety concerns were observed for people vaccinated in the third trimester or safety concerns for their babies," she said. "We know that this is a deeply personal decision," she added, "and I encourage people to talk to their doctors and their primary care providers to determine what is best for them and their baby." She further explained that because the initial vaccine trials did not include pregnant women, there had been limited data on possible problems. As a result, different health authorities and professional medical groups had offered cautious, or even conflicting, guidance. In total, The United States had administered 228,661,408 doses of COVID-19 vaccines as of Sunday morning and distributed 290,692,005 doses. (With inputs from agencies)

US CDC officially recommends Covid vaccines for pregnant women

<p>Helping someone in this tough time of this coronavirus pandemic is a morally correct thing to do, and a nurse in India has kept aside all personal inconvenience to help people in need.</p>

<p>A four-month pregnant nurse has come out as a mark of selflessness as she is dedicating her time to the patients suffering from the deadly coronavirus.</p>

<p>Nancy Ayeza Mistry is in the fourth month of her pregnancy and has been observing fasts for the holy month of Ramadan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-air-force-transports-four-cryogenic-oxygen-containers-from-singapore-379855" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore</a></strong></p>

<p>"I have a child in my womb, but my duty is important to me. By the grace of God, I have the opportunity to serve the patients in the holy month of Ramadan," she told India Today.</p>

<p>Irrespective of her pain and the risk she faces, Mistry has been working her daily hospital shifts without any hesitation and efficiently.</p>

<p>Her service has gained her blessings and praise as people are thanking her for taking care of people at a time when the country is struggling with an alarming surge of coronavirus.</p>


Helping someone in this tough time of this coronavirus pandemic is a morally correct thing to do, and a nurse in India has kept aside all personal inconvenience to help people in need.

Helping someone in this tough time of this coronavirus pandemic is a morally correct thing to do, and a nurse in India has kept aside all personal inconvenience to help people in need. A four-month pregnant nurse has come out as a mark of selflessness as she is dedicating her time to the patients suffering from the deadly coronavirus. Nancy Ayeza Mistry is in the fourth month of her pregnancy and has been observing fasts for the holy month of Ramadan. Also read | COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore "I have a child in my womb, but my duty is important to me. By the grace of God, I have the opportunity to serve the patients in the holy month of Ramadan," she told India Today. Irrespective of her pain and the risk she faces, Mistry has been working her daily hospital shifts without any hesitation and efficiently. Her service has gained her blessings and praise as people are thanking her for taking care of people at a time when the country is struggling with an alarming surge of coronavirus.

Four month pregnant nurse earns praise for helping Covid patients

<p>As&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases are alarmingly increasing in Brazil, the authorities have urged women to delay pregnancy for at least a few months.</p>

<p>The request has come as Brazil is experiencing one of the worst waves of coronavirus, with the country marking one of the highest death tolls in the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/patients-tied-to-beds-in-brazil-as-country-runs-out-of-sedatives-reports-378022">Patients tied to beds in Brazil as country runs out of sedatives: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>"If it's possible, delay pregnancy a little until a better moment,"&nbsp;Raphael Parente, a health ministry official said during a news conference.</p>

<p>This has also been requested as the officials claim the new Brazil variant is more dangerous for pregnant women.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-brazil-graveyard-shift-reveals-staggering-cost-of-pandemic-378134">In Brazil, graveyard shift reveals staggering cost of pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>"The clinical experience of specialists shows that this new variant acts more aggressively in pregnant women," Parente explained.</p>

<p>Brazilian variant of coronavirus, also known as P1, was first identified in Manaus, an Amazon city, and spread very quickly in Brazil. It has also been assumed to be one of the biggest reasons behind the surge in cases in the country.</p>

<p>The outbreak has also affected the younger generation this time, especially people in their 30s and 40s, who have been admitted in the ICUs.</p>

<p>With the hospitals running on full capacity, the Brazilian president, Jair Bolsonaro, has again opposed lockdown and has continued holding large and crowded events in the country.</p>


As coronavirus cases are alarmingly increasing in Brazil, the authorities have urged women to delay pregnancy for at least a few months. The request has come as Brazil is experiencing one of the worst waves of coronavirus, with the country marking one of the highest death tolls in the world.

As coronavirus cases are alarmingly increasing in Brazil, the authorities have urged women to delay pregnancy for at least a few months. The request has come as Brazil is experiencing one of the worst waves of coronavirus, with the country marking one of the highest death tolls in the world. Also read | Patients tied to beds in Brazil as country runs out of sedatives: Reports "If it's possible, delay pregnancy a little until a better moment," Raphael Parente, a health ministry official said during a news conference. This has also been requested as the officials claim the new Brazil variant is more dangerous for pregnant women. Also read | In Brazil, graveyard shift reveals staggering cost of pandemic "The clinical experience of specialists shows that this new variant acts more aggressively in pregnant women," Parente explained. Brazilian variant of coronavirus, also known as P1, was first identified in Manaus, an Amazon city, and spread very quickly in Brazil. It has also been assumed to be one of the biggest reasons behind the surge in cases in the country. The outbreak has also affected the younger generation this time, especially people in their 30s and 40s, who have been admitted in the ICUs. With the hospitals running on full capacity, the Brazilian president, Jair Bolsonaro, has again opposed lockdown and has continued holding large and crowded events in the country.

'Please delay pregnancies', Brazil urges local women amid coronavirus surge

<p>In a bid to assure more financial support for mothers, the government of Utah has now made it compulsory for the fathers to pay half the cost of a mother’s medical care, related to the pregnancy and delivery of the baby.</p>

<p>As per Utah's Shared Medical Costs, biological fathers will now have to pay half of the mother’s insurance premiums during the time of her pregnancy. This will also include all other medical fees, and the cost incurred during the delivery of the baby.</p>

<p>A study in the Health Affairs journal&nbsp;observed medical costs of expecting mothers from 2008 to 2015 and revealed that women with health insurance bear cost of nearly $4,500 out of their own pocket during the period of pregnancy.</p>

<p>The figure doubles up for the women who cannot afford to have health insurance and the cost is closer to $10,000.</p>

<p>As of now, fathers are able to delay paying any amount till paternity is proven in the eye of the law. In addition to this, fathers are allowed to not divide the cost if the mother is not seeking assistance.</p>

<p>One exception is also that fathers will not have to divide the cost of an abortion if the decision is taken without mutual consent — cases of rape and the mother’s life in danger remain to be an exception.</p>


In a bid to assure more financial support for mothers, the government of Utah has now made it compulsory for the fathers to pay half the cost of a mother’s medical care, related to the pregnancy and delivery of the baby.

In a bid to assure more financial support for mothers, the government of Utah has now made it compulsory for the fathers to pay half the cost of a mother’s medical care, related to the pregnancy and delivery of the baby. As per Utah's Shared Medical Costs, biological fathers will now have to pay half of the mother’s insurance premiums during the time of her pregnancy. This will also include all other medical fees, and the cost incurred during the delivery of the baby. A study in the Health Affairs journal observed medical costs of expecting mothers from 2008 to 2015 and revealed that women with health insurance bear cost of nearly $4,500 out of their own pocket during the period of pregnancy. The figure doubles up for the women who cannot afford to have health insurance and the cost is closer to $10,000. As of now, fathers are able to delay paying any amount till paternity is proven in the eye of the law. In addition to this, fathers are allowed to not divide the cost if the mother is not seeking assistance. One exception is also that fathers will not have to divide the cost of an abortion if the decision is taken without mutual consent — cases of rape and the mother’s life in danger remain to be an exception.

Utah: Fathers to split pregnancy cost with expecting mothers

<p>Scientists have generated early-stage human&nbsp;embryo&nbsp;models that could help shed light on the "black box" of initial human development stages and improve research on pregnancy loss and birth defects.</p>

<p>Two separate teams found different ways to produce versions of a blastocyst,&nbsp;the pre-embryonic mass of cells at the stage of development around five days after a sperm fertilises an egg, potentially opening the door for a huge expansion of research.</p>

<p>The scientists make clear that the models differ from human blastocysts and are not capable of developing into embryos. But their work comes as new ethical guidelines on such research are being drafted and could spark fresh debate.</p>

<p>The teams, whose research was published Thursday in the journal Nature, believe the models dubbed "blastoids" will aid research on everything from miscarriages to the effects of toxins and drugs on early-stage embryos.</p>

<p>"We're very excited," said Jun Wu of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre, who led one of the teams.</p>

<p>"Studying human development is really difficult, especially at this stage of development, it's essentially a black box," he told a press briefing ahead of the research's publication.</p>

<p>At the moment, research on the earliest days of embryonic development relies on donated blastocysts from IVF treatment.</p>

<p>But supply is limited, subject to restrictions, and available only to certain research facilities.</p>

<p>So being able to generate unlimited models could be a game-changer, said Jose Polo, a professor at Australia's Monash University, who led the second research team.</p>

<p>"This capacity to work at scale, we think, will revolutionise our understanding of early stages of human development," he told reporters.</p>

<p>Generating models of blastocysts has so far only been done in animals, with researchers in 2018 successfully generating them in mice using stem cells.</p>

<p>The two teams approached the development of a human model in slightly different ways.</p>

<p>Wu's team used two different types of stem cells, some derived from human embryos, and other so-called induced pluripotent stem cells, which have the potential to become any cell and are produced from adult tissue.</p>

<p>Polo's team instead started with adult skin cells, but both teams ended up with effectively the same result: the cells began to organise themselves into blastoids, featuring the three key components seen in a human blastocyst.</p>

<p>"For us what was completely surprising was that when you put them together, they self-organise, they seem to talk to each other in some way... and they consolidate," Polo said.</p>

<p>But while the models are similar to human blastocysts in many ways, there are also significant differences.</p>

<p>Both teams' blastoids ended up containing cells of unknown types, and they lack some elements that come specifically from the interaction between a sperm and an egg.</p>

<p>The blastoids only worked about 20 per cent of the time on average, though the teams say that still represents a pathway to a significant research supply.</p>

<p><strong>Ethical debate</strong></p>

<p>The scientists are at pains to make clear that the models should not be seen as pseudo-embryos, and are not capable of developing into foetuses.</p>

<p>Still, they proceeded cautiously, opting to end research with the blastoids four days after cultivation, equivalent to about 10 days after fertilisation in normal egg-sperm interaction.</p>

<p>Research rules involving human blastocysts set that deadline at 14 days.</p>

<p>Peter Rugg-Gunn, group leader at the life sciences research Babraham Institute in the UK, said the processes represented "an exciting advance" but work was needed to generate the blastoids more reliably.</p>

<p>"To capitalise on the discovery, the process will need to be more controlled and less variable," he said.</p>

<p>And given the differences between the blastoids and human blastocysts, any hypotheses they help generate "will need to be validated in human embryos", said Teresa Rayon of the Francis Crick Institute, a biomedical research centre.</p>

<p>The research may also spark ethical debates, said Yi Zheng and Jianping Fu of the University of Michigan's department of mechanical engineering.</p>

<p>"As protocols are optimised, these blastoids will more closely mimic human blastocysts," they wrote in an opinion piece published in Nature.</p>

<p>Some "might view human blastoid research as a path towards engineering human embryos", they warned.</p>

<p>The research "calls for public conversations on the scientific significance of such research, as well as on the societal and ethical issues it raises".</p>


Scientists have generated early-stage human embryo models that could help shed light on the "black box" of initial human development stages and improve research on pregnancy loss and birth defects.

Scientists have generated early-stage human embryo models that could help shed light on the "black box" of initial human development stages and improve research on pregnancy loss and birth defects. Two separate teams found different ways to produce versions of a blastocyst, the pre-embryonic mass of cells at the stage of development around five days after a sperm fertilises an egg, potentially opening the door for a huge expansion of research. The scientists make clear that the models differ from human blastocysts and are not capable of developing into embryos. But their work comes as new ethical guidelines on such research are being drafted and could spark fresh debate. The teams, whose research was published Thursday in the journal Nature, believe the models dubbed "blastoids" will aid research on everything from miscarriages to the effects of toxins and drugs on early-stage embryos. "We're very excited," said Jun Wu of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre, who led one of the teams. "Studying human development is really difficult, especially at this stage of development, it's essentially a black box," he told a press briefing ahead of the research's publication. At the moment, research on the earliest days of embryonic development relies on donated blastocysts from IVF treatment. But supply is limited, subject to restrictions, and available only to certain research facilities. So being able to generate unlimited models could be a game-changer, said Jose Polo, a professor at Australia's Monash University, who led the second research team. "This capacity to work at scale, we think, will revolutionise our understanding of early stages of human development," he told reporters. Generating models of blastocysts has so far only been done in animals, with researchers in 2018 successfully generating them in mice using stem cells. The two teams approached the development of a human model in slightly different ways. Wu's team used two different types of stem cells, some derived from human embryos, and other so-called induced pluripotent stem cells, which have the potential to become any cell and are produced from adult tissue. Polo's team instead started with adult skin cells, but both teams ended up with effectively the same result: the cells began to organise themselves into blastoids, featuring the three key components seen in a human blastocyst. "For us what was completely surprising was that when you put them together, they self-organise, they seem to talk to each other in some way... and they consolidate," Polo said. But while the models are similar to human blastocysts in many ways, there are also significant differences. Both teams' blastoids ended up containing cells of unknown types, and they lack some elements that come specifically from the interaction between a sperm and an egg. The blastoids only worked about 20 per cent of the time on average, though the teams say that still represents a pathway to a significant research supply. Ethical debate The scientists are at pains to make clear that the models should not be seen as pseudo-embryos, and are not capable of developing into foetuses. Still, they proceeded cautiously, opting to end research with the blastoids four days after cultivation, equivalent to about 10 days after fertilisation in normal egg-sperm interaction. Research rules involving human blastocysts set that deadline at 14 days. Peter Rugg-Gunn, group leader at the life sciences research Babraham Institute in the UK, said the processes represented "an exciting advance" but work was needed to generate the blastoids more reliably. "To capitalise on the discovery, the process will need to be more controlled and less variable," he said. And given the differences between the blastoids and human blastocysts, any hypotheses they help generate "will need to be validated in human embryos", said Teresa Rayon of the Francis Crick Institute, a biomedical research centre. The research may also spark ethical debates, said Yi Zheng and Jianping Fu of the University of Michigan's department of mechanical engineering. "As protocols are optimised, these blastoids will more closely mimic human blastocysts," they wrote in an opinion piece published in Nature. Some "might view human blastoid research as a path towards engineering human embryos", they warned. The research "calls for public conversations on the scientific significance of such research, as well as on the societal and ethical issues it raises".

New embryo models coaxed from skin cells offer a divisive new way to study human life

<p>World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart on Monday said that there are still almost 40 countries where women can be fired from their jobs simply for getting pregnant.</p>

<p>Reinhart said the economic fallout from covid-19 had been “very regressive,” hitting the most vulnerable hardest, including women and girls.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-child-brides-10-million-more-girls-can-be-pushed-into-child-marriage-warns-unicef-report-368823"><strong>Covid child brides: 10 million more girls can be pushed into child marriage, warns Unicef report</strong></a><br />
<br />
“We are seeing big setbacks on schooling, girls are taken out that will not return,” said Reinhart, speaking on International Women’s Day.</p>

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<p>The pandemic has contributed to an increase in violence against women and is reinforcing gender inequality in many countries, with women on average having roughly three-quarters of the legal rights of men, according to the World Bank.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, According to a new analysis released by Unicef, &nbsp;the outsized impact Covid-19 has had on women in some countries could result in an additional 10 million child marriages in this decade.</p>

<p>"School closures, economic stress, service disruptions, pregnancy and parental deaths due to the pandemic are putting the most vulnerable girls at increased risk of child marriage," said a study titled "Covid-19: A threat to progress against child marriage."</p>

<p>That trend, if confirmed, would represent a serious retreat from recent years of progress against child marriage.</p>

<p>In the last 10 years, according to the study, the proportion of young women globally who were married as children had declined by 15 per cent, from nearly one in four to one in five.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart on Monday said that there are still almost 40 countries where women can be fired from their jobs simply for getting pregnant.

World Bank Chief Economist Carmen Reinhart on Monday said that there are still almost 40 countries where women can be fired from their jobs simply for getting pregnant. Reinhart said the economic fallout from covid-19 had been “very regressive,” hitting the most vulnerable hardest, including women and girls. Covid child brides: 10 million more girls can be pushed into child marriage, warns Unicef report “We are seeing big setbacks on schooling, girls are taken out that will not return,” said Reinhart, speaking on International Women’s Day. The pandemic has contributed to an increase in violence against women and is reinforcing gender inequality in many countries, with women on average having roughly three-quarters of the legal rights of men, according to the World Bank. Meanwhile, According to a new analysis released by Unicef, the outsized impact Covid-19 has had on women in some countries could result in an additional 10 million child marriages in this decade. "School closures, economic stress, service disruptions, pregnancy and parental deaths due to the pandemic are putting the most vulnerable girls at increased risk of child marriage," said a study titled "Covid-19: A threat to progress against child marriage." That trend, if confirmed, would represent a serious retreat from recent years of progress against child marriage. In the last 10 years, according to the study, the proportion of young women globally who were married as children had declined by 15 per cent, from nearly one in four to one in five. (With inputs from agencies)

Women can be fired for pregnancy in 40 nations, says World Bank Chief Economist

<p>Scientists have found evidence of lower than expected transfer of protective antibodies against the novel coronavirus via the placenta from mothers who are infected in the third trimester, findings that shed light on critical windows in pregnancy that may be most desirable for vaccination.</p>

<p>According to the researchers, including those from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in the US, the findings may be explained by a process where the carbohydrate molecules in the body alter antibodies after they are produced.</p>

<p>They explained that altered attachments of carbohydrates to the coronavirus-specific antibodies -- a process called glycosylation -- may be to blame for the reduced transfer from mother to fetus.</p>

<p>In the study, published in the journal Cell, the scientists compared maternal antibodies against the flu (influenza), whooping cough (pertussis), and the novel coronavirus -- SARS-CoV-2 -- and how these antibodies transferred across the placenta.</p>

<p>They found that influenza- and pertussis-specific antibodies were actively transferred in a relatively normal fashion.</p>

<p>In contrast, the researchers said the transfer of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies to the baby was not only significantly reduced, but the antibodies transferred were less functional than those against influenza.</p>

<p>According to the scientists, the reduced transfer was only observed in third trimester infection.</p>

<p>The study found that carbohydrate attachments on SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies in maternal blood were different than those seen on influenza- and pertussis-specific antibodies.</p>

<p>The researchers believe this carbohydrate pattern may cause the COVID-specific antibodies to be "stuck" in the maternal circulation, rather than transferred across the placenta via placental antibody receptors.</p>

<p>However, the scientists said some increases in total maternal antibodies induced by viral infection helped to partially overcome the problem and facilitate the transfer of some functional antibodies from mother to fetus.</p>

<p>A higher placental expression of a receptor which attracts the carbohydrate pattern on the SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies also helped, the study noted.</p>

<p>Based on the analysis, the scientists said some of the antibodies that transferred the best were also the most functional, activating the immune system's natural killer cells that could help the newborn fight the virus if exposed.</p>

<p>The researchers believe the findings have implications for the design of new vaccine candidates against SARS-CoV-2 for pregnant women.</p>

<p>"Vaccine regimens able to drive high levels of the COVID-specific antibodies with glycosylation patterns favoured by the placenta for selective transfer to the fetus may lead to better neonatal and infant protection," says study co-author Andrea Edlow, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital.</p>

<p>The scientists said the study results may point to critical windows in pregnancy that may be most desirable for vaccination to optimise protection for both the mother and her infant.&nbsp;</p>


Scientists have found evidence of lower than expected transfer of protective antibodies against the novel coronavirus via the placenta from mothers who are infected in the third trimester, findings that shed light on critical windows in pregnancy that may be most desirable for vaccination.

Scientists have found evidence of lower than expected transfer of protective antibodies against the novel coronavirus via the placenta from mothers who are infected in the third trimester, findings that shed light on critical windows in pregnancy that may be most desirable for vaccination. According to the researchers, including those from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in the US, the findings may be explained by a process where the carbohydrate molecules in the body alter antibodies after they are produced. They explained that altered attachments of carbohydrates to the coronavirus-specific antibodies -- a process called glycosylation -- may be to blame for the reduced transfer from mother to fetus. In the study, published in the journal Cell, the scientists compared maternal antibodies against the flu (influenza), whooping cough (pertussis), and the novel coronavirus -- SARS-CoV-2 -- and how these antibodies transferred across the placenta. They found that influenza- and pertussis-specific antibodies were actively transferred in a relatively normal fashion. In contrast, the researchers said the transfer of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies to the baby was not only significantly reduced, but the antibodies transferred were less functional than those against influenza. According to the scientists, the reduced transfer was only observed in third trimester infection. The study found that carbohydrate attachments on SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies in maternal blood were different than those seen on influenza- and pertussis-specific antibodies. The researchers believe this carbohydrate pattern may cause the COVID-specific antibodies to be "stuck" in the maternal circulation, rather than transferred across the placenta via placental antibody receptors. However, the scientists said some increases in total maternal antibodies induced by viral infection helped to partially overcome the problem and facilitate the transfer of some functional antibodies from mother to fetus. A higher placental expression of a receptor which attracts the carbohydrate pattern on the SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies also helped, the study noted. Based on the analysis, the scientists said some of the antibodies that transferred the best were also the most functional, activating the immune system's natural killer cells that could help the newborn fight the virus if exposed. The researchers believe the findings have implications for the design of new vaccine candidates against SARS-CoV-2 for pregnant women. "Vaccine regimens able to drive high levels of the COVID-specific antibodies with glycosylation patterns favoured by the placenta for selective transfer to the fetus may lead to better neonatal and infant protection," says study co-author Andrea Edlow, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. The scientists said the study results may point to critical windows in pregnancy that may be most desirable for vaccination to optimise protection for both the mother and her infant.

Study sheds light on critical windows in pregnancy for COVID-19 vaccination

<p>Facebook has been facing global criticism and press from government for how it uses user data and privacy. Now, an organisation founded by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is treading muddy waters.</p>

<p>RT reported that blood samples of Danish women who were participating in a public research project were found in possession of an organisation connected to Zuckerberg. Almost 263 expecting mothers provided weekly blood samples to Denmarks State Serum Institute (SSI) to help scientists understand more about the body and the changes it undergoes during pregnancy.</p>

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<p>However, none of them were informed that their samples would also end up in the hands of a private business venture run by Zuckerberg, as reported by Danish Radio.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/canada-plans-digital-tax-in-2022-on-global-tech-giants-such-as-facebook-google-346651" hreflang="en">Canada plans digital tax in 2022 on global tech giants such as Facebook, Google</a></p>

<p>The research project began in 2014, and its samples were then forward to Stanford University, a private research institution based in California. They were using these blood tests to detect premature birth. The researchers from SSI started a private company and got into a partnership with the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub.</p>

<p>According to Danish Radio, the research centre linked to Zuckerberg has patented the blood test, and continues to have the most control over it. Additionally, the company is also in-charge of commercialising the test. During a conversation on the station, a contract law expert form the Copenhagen Business School asserted that the agreement was “bad” for Denmark.</p>

<p>The bigger question that needs to be addressed in the situation is why none of the women were informed of how their blood was being used by an organisation linked to Facebook’s co-founder.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/in-a-first-facebook-offers-estimate-of-hate-speech-prevalence-on-its-platform-344315" hreflang="en">In a first, Facebook offers estimate of hate speech prevalence on its platform</a></p>

<p>They were never told that their blood would be transported to the United States for analysis. They also had no idea that it was going to be used for commercial purposes.</p>

<p>The original project by SSI was approved by Denmark’s Science Ethics Committee. However, a government reviews concluded that transporting the blood samples to the US without proper consent violates data processing rules.</p>


Facebook has been facing global criticism and press from government for how it uses user data and privacy. Now, an organisation founded by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is treading muddy waters.

Facebook has been facing global criticism and press from government for how it uses user data and privacy. Now, an organisation founded by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is treading muddy waters. RT reported that blood samples of Danish women who were participating in a public research project were found in possession of an organisation connected to Zuckerberg. Almost 263 expecting mothers provided weekly blood samples to Denmarks State Serum Institute (SSI) to help scientists understand more about the body and the changes it undergoes during pregnancy. However, none of them were informed that their samples would also end up in the hands of a private business venture run by Zuckerberg, as reported by Danish Radio. Also read: Canada plans digital tax in 2022 on global tech giants such as Facebook, Google The research project began in 2014, and its samples were then forward to Stanford University, a private research institution based in California. They were using these blood tests to detect premature birth. The researchers from SSI started a private company and got into a partnership with the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub. According to Danish Radio, the research centre linked to Zuckerberg has patented the blood test, and continues to have the most control over it. Additionally, the company is also in-charge of commercialising the test. During a conversation on the station, a contract law expert form the Copenhagen Business School asserted that the agreement was “bad” for Denmark. The bigger question that needs to be addressed in the situation is why none of the women were informed of how their blood was being used by an organisation linked to Facebook’s co-founder. Also read: In a first, Facebook offers estimate of hate speech prevalence on its platform They were never told that their blood would be transported to the United States for analysis. They also had no idea that it was going to be used for commercial purposes. The original project by SSI was approved by Denmark’s Science Ethics Committee. However, a government reviews concluded that transporting the blood samples to the US without proper consent violates data processing rules.

Blood samples of pregnant women used by venture linked to Zuckerberg without consent

<p>After an extensive study, researchers have found that using marijuana during pregnancy might increase the risk that a child will develop autism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-record-number-of-aid-workers-were-murdered-in-2019-across-the-globe-321193" hreflang="en">A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe</a></p>

<p>Dr Darine El-Chaar, who is the study author and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and clinical investigator at Ottawa Hospital Research Institute in Canada, said: "Women who used cannabis during pregnancy were 1.5 times more likely to have a child with autism."</p>

<p>"These are not reassuring findings. We highly discourage use of cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding," she said.</p>

<p>According to US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), past studies linked the use of marijuana during pregnancy to low birth weight, impulsivity, hyperactivity, attention issues and other cognitive and behavioural issues in children.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bee-populations-are-declining-drastically-find-out-how-this-phenomenon-can-wreak-havoc-globally-321218" hreflang="en">Bee populations are declining drastically: Find out how this phenomenon can wreak havoc globally</a></p>

<p>"Based on that, I'm not too surprised by these findings," El-Chaâr said. "Fetal brain development occurs throughout all gestational ages."</p>

<p>The study has been published in the journal Nature. The study was based on data of every birth in Ontario, Canada, between 2007 and 2012, which was before Canada legalized marijuana in 2017 for recreational purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers narrowed down their study from half a million women to 2,200. These 2,200 women were the ones who only used marijuana during pregnancy, without mixing it with tobacco, alcohol or opioids. However, the study did not focus on the quantity and type of marijuana the women used during pregnancy nor did it focus on when during the pregnancy or how often women used it.&nbsp;</p>


After an extensive study, researchers have found that using marijuana during pregnancy might increase the risk that a child will develop autism. Also read: A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe Dr Darine El-Chaar, who is the study author and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and clinical investigator at Ottawa Hospital Research Institute in Canada, said: "Women who used cannabis during pregnancy were 1.

After an extensive study, researchers have found that using marijuana during pregnancy might increase the risk that a child will develop autism. Also read: A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe Dr Darine El-Chaar, who is the study author and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and clinical investigator at Ottawa Hospital Research Institute in Canada, said: "Women who used cannabis during pregnancy were 1.5 times more likely to have a child with autism." "These are not reassuring findings. We highly discourage use of cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding," she said. According to US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), past studies linked the use of marijuana during pregnancy to low birth weight, impulsivity, hyperactivity, attention issues and other cognitive and behavioural issues in children. Also read: Bee populations are declining drastically: Find out how this phenomenon can wreak havoc globally "Based on that, I'm not too surprised by these findings," El-Chaâr said. "Fetal brain development occurs throughout all gestational ages." The study has been published in the journal Nature. The study was based on data of every birth in Ontario, Canada, between 2007 and 2012, which was before Canada legalized marijuana in 2017 for recreational purposes. The researchers narrowed down their study from half a million women to 2,200. These 2,200 women were the ones who only used marijuana during pregnancy, without mixing it with tobacco, alcohol or opioids. However, the study did not focus on the quantity and type of marijuana the women used during pregnancy nor did it focus on when during the pregnancy or how often women used it.

Use of Marijuana during pregnancy could risk autism in babies: Study

<p>New Zealand on Thursday passed a bill with a resounding victory to decriminalise abortion.</p>

<p>The bill that ends the restrictive law in New Zealand allows women to self-refer to abortion clinics within the first 20 weeks of gestation.</p>

<p>The bill was passed with 94 votes in favour and 23 against it.</p>

<p>The earlier law&nbsp;listed abortion as a crime and was allowed only after the assent of two doctors, to save a pregnant woman's life from mental or physical danger.</p>

<p>Speaking in favour of the bill, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that the time was right to finally put women's dignity and their rights at the centre of this discussion.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand on Thursday passed a bill with a resounding victory to decriminalise abortion. The bill that ends the restrictive law in New Zealand allows women to self-refer to abortion clinics within the first 20 weeks of gestation.

New Zealand on Thursday passed a bill with a resounding victory to decriminalise abortion. The bill that ends the restrictive law in New Zealand allows women to self-refer to abortion clinics within the first 20 weeks of gestation. The bill was passed with 94 votes in favour and 23 against it. The earlier law listed abortion as a crime and was allowed only after the assent of two doctors, to save a pregnant woman's life from mental or physical danger. Speaking in favour of the bill, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that the time was right to finally put women's dignity and their rights at the centre of this discussion.

New Zealand passes bill to decriminalise abortion

<p>The Madras High Court Friday said a rape victim need not approach the medical board or the judiciary to terminate her pregnancy provided its length has not exceeded 20 weeks.</p>

<p>Disposing of a criminal original petition from a victim, Justice N Anand Venkatesh said in all cases of unneeded pregnancy suffered by a victim, she need not be referred to the medical board if the length of pregnancy does not exceed 20 weeks.</p>

<p>"The termination of pregnancy can be done as per the provisions of Section 3 of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971. The victim girl should not be unnecessarily made to knock the doors of this court," he said in his order.</p>

<p>The petitioner, a girl, who was allegedly raped by a man Naveeth Ahamed under duress as a result of which she became pregnant, sought a direction to transfer the probe from local police to the Crime Branch CID.</p>

<p>The assailant had recorded videos and intimidated her to yield to his carnal desires, she alleged and sought a direction to the state-run Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, to medically terminate her pregnancy.</p>

<p>After filing a police complaint against the alleged rapist, she petitioned police to arrange for termination of her pregnancy.</p>

<p>Since the police did not take steps, she herself got admitted to the institute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though doctors initially agreed to terminate her pregnancy, she was subsequently discharged in view of the police case and the need for forensic examination.</p>

<p>Left with no other alternative, when the petitioner moved the High Court, it directed her to the government Kasturba Gandhi Hospital for Women and Children, where it was revealed that she was 8 to 10 weeks pregnant.</p>

<p>The government hospital and the institute wrote to the Dean, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital here, that only the medical board there could terminate the pregnancy.</p>

<p>The court then directed police to take the petitioner to RGGGH and tasked the hospital to proceed with the termination of pregnancy and take samples for DNA test and hand it over to the Forensic lab.</p>

<p>Accordingly, the medical board evaluated the petitioner, the pregnancy was terminated and it was reported to the court on June 18.</p>

<p>Counsel for the petitioner, Sudha Ramalingam, submitted that in all cases involving medical termination of pregnancy, the victim should not be made to knock on the doors of the court, where the pregnancy is below 20 weeks.</p>

<p>The judge said even in cases where the length of pregnancy exceeded 20&nbsp;<br />
weeks, it can be terminated (in accordance with the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act) if the life of the woman was under threat.</p>

<p>In all other cases, where the length of pregnancy exceeds 20 weeks, the victim may approach the High Court for getting an abortion and the medical board will examine the matter.</p>

<p>In all cases of termination of pregnancy involving a criminal case, samples will have to be taken for DNA test, the court said.</p>


The Madras High Court Friday said a rape victim need not approach the medical board or the judiciary to terminate her pregnancy provided its length has not exceeded 20 weeks.

The Madras High Court Friday said a rape victim need not approach the medical board or the judiciary to terminate her pregnancy provided its length has not exceeded 20 weeks. Disposing of a criminal original petition from a victim, Justice N Anand Venkatesh said in all cases of unneeded pregnancy suffered by a victim, she need not be referred to the medical board if the length of pregnancy does not exceed 20 weeks. "The termination of pregnancy can be done as per the provisions of Section 3 of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971. The victim girl should not be unnecessarily made to knock the doors of this court," he said in his order. The petitioner, a girl, who was allegedly raped by a man Naveeth Ahamed under duress as a result of which she became pregnant, sought a direction to transfer the probe from local police to the Crime Branch CID. The assailant had recorded videos and intimidated her to yield to his carnal desires, she alleged and sought a direction to the state-run Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, to medically terminate her pregnancy. After filing a police complaint against the alleged rapist, she petitioned police to arrange for termination of her pregnancy. Since the police did not take steps, she herself got admitted to the institute. Though doctors initially agreed to terminate her pregnancy, she was subsequently discharged in view of the police case and the need for forensic examination. Left with no other alternative, when the petitioner moved the High Court, it directed her to the government Kasturba Gandhi Hospital for Women and Children, where it was revealed that she was 8 to 10 weeks pregnant. The government hospital and the institute wrote to the Dean, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital here, that only the medical board there could terminate the pregnancy. The court then directed police to take the petitioner to RGGGH and tasked the hospital to proceed with the termination of pregnancy and take samples for DNA test and hand it over to the Forensic lab. Accordingly, the medical board evaluated the petitioner, the pregnancy was terminated and it was reported to the court on June 18. Counsel for the petitioner, Sudha Ramalingam, submitted that in all cases involving medical termination of pregnancy, the victim should not be made to knock on the doors of the court, where the pregnancy is below 20 weeks. The judge said even in cases where the length of pregnancy exceeded 20 weeks, it can be terminated (in accordance with the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act) if the life of the woman was under threat. In all other cases, where the length of pregnancy exceeds 20 weeks, the victim may approach the High Court for getting an abortion and the medical board will examine the matter. In all cases of termination of pregnancy involving a criminal case, samples will have to be taken for DNA test, the court said.

Rape victims can end pregnancy without medical board nod: Madras High Court

<p>Former porn star and entrepreneur Jenna Jameson is following a strict Keto diet that has helped her lose more than 80 pounds since she gave birth to her daughter, Batel, in 2017.</p>

<p>"The before pic shows a tired new mom in absolute love. Sore but elated. Batel was only 2 weeks... and I am still in awe of the fact that my body made a perfect 8 lb baby. I honour that beautiful body," Jameson wrote on Instagram alongside a photograph holding daughter Batel when she was first born and now.</p>

<p>"Batel is now 21 months and I'm still in awe of this body that continues to nourish her. I hope that all of you mommys understand how magical you are," she added.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsgmMxJhj8c/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">The before pic shows a tired new mom in absolute love. Sore but elated. Batel was only 2 weeks... and I am still in awe of the fact that my body made a perfect 8 lb baby. I honor that beautiful body. Batel is now 21 months and I’m still in awe of this body that continues to nourish her. I hope that all of you mommys understand how magical you are! PS- thank you for all the prayers for my husband. He is going into surgery tonight at 6 pm *** update he’s getting prepped for surgery right now 😨*** update- he’s out of surgery and doing very well. I know he will come through with flying colors. Baruch HaShem. Shabbat Shalom #ketotransformation #beforeandafterweightloss #positivevibes #beforeandafter #postpartumbody #postpartum #breastfeeding #ketodiet #keto #ketotransformation #intermittentfasting #biohacking #prayers #shabbatshalom</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jennacantlose/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Jenna Jameson</a> (@jennacantlose) on <time datetime="2019-01-11T21:27:05+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 11, 2019 at 1:27pm PST</time></p>
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<p>Besides that, Jameson also shared another before and after shot of her physical transformation.</p>

<p>"Truth. I thought I was still sexy in my before pic. I was right," she wrote.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsMWsTvhYvk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Truth. I thought I was still sexy af in my before pic. I was right. My weight loss was never about pleasing society. Yours shouldn’t be either. It’s about health, it’s about keeping up with our kids, it’s about longevity. So stay sexy out there, but strive for health! #wholefoods #ketotransformation #beforeandafterweightloss #beforeandafter #goals #postpartumbody #keto #intermittentfasting #biohacking</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jennacantlose/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Jenna Jameson</a> (@jennacantlose) on <time datetime="2019-01-04T00:46:46+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 3, 2019 at 4:46pm PST</time></p>
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<p>The Keto diet is a low-calorie, high-fat diet in which alcohol and sugar (including most fruit) are banned, as well as beans, starchy vegetables, and most grains. Instead, Keto dieters focus on proteins, leafy vegetables, fats and oils.</p>

<p>Last week, Jameson quit Twitter over anti-Semitic remarks. &nbsp;</p>


Former porn star and entrepreneur Jenna Jameson is following a strict Keto diet that has helped her lose more than 80 pounds since she gave birth to her daughter, Batel, in 2017.

Former porn star and entrepreneur Jenna Jameson is following a strict Keto diet that has helped her lose more than 80 pounds since she gave birth to her daughter, Batel, in 2017. "The before pic shows a tired new mom in absolute love. Sore but elated. Batel was only 2 weeks... and I am still in awe of the fact that my body made a perfect 8 lb baby. I honour that beautiful body," Jameson wrote on Instagram alongside a photograph holding daughter Batel when she was first born and now. "Batel is now 21 months and I'm still in awe of this body that continues to nourish her. I hope that all of you mommys understand how magical you are," she added. View this post on Instagram The before pic shows a tired new mom in absolute love. Sore but elated. Batel was only 2 weeks... and I am still in awe of the fact that my body made a perfect 8 lb baby. I honor that beautiful body. Batel is now 21 months and I’m still in awe of this body that continues to nourish her. I hope that all of you mommys understand how magical you are! PS- thank you for all the prayers for my husband. He is going into surgery tonight at 6 pm *** update he’s getting prepped for surgery right now 😨*** update- he’s out of surgery and doing very well. I know he will come through with flying colors. Baruch HaShem. Shabbat Shalom #ketotransformation #beforeandafterweightloss #positivevibes #beforeandafter #postpartumbody #postpartum #breastfeeding #ketodiet #keto #ketotransformation #intermittentfasting #biohacking #prayers #shabbatshalom A post shared by Jenna Jameson (@jennacantlose) on Jan 11, 2019 at 1:27pm PST × Besides that, Jameson also shared another before and after shot of her physical transformation. "Truth. I thought I was still sexy in my before pic. I was right," she wrote. View this post on Instagram Truth. I thought I was still sexy af in my before pic. I was right. My weight loss was never about pleasing society. Yours shouldn’t be either. It’s about health, it’s about keeping up with our kids, it’s about longevity. So stay sexy out there, but strive for health! #wholefoods #ketotransformation #beforeandafterweightloss #beforeandafter #goals #postpartumbody #keto #intermittentfasting #biohacking A post shared by Jenna Jameson (@jennacantlose) on Jan 3, 2019 at 4:46pm PST × The Keto diet is a low-calorie, high-fat diet in which alcohol and sugar (including most fruit) are banned, as well as beans, starchy vegetables, and most grains. Instead, Keto dieters focus on proteins, leafy vegetables, fats and oils. Last week, Jameson quit Twitter over anti-Semitic remarks.

Jenna Jameson 'in awe' of her body post Keto diet

<p>Yoli Cabeza was sent from one hospital to another before finally giving birth to her daughter Yusmari in the corridor of a maternity ward because her contractions came quicker than medical help.</p>

<p>The 37-year-old was diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy but that didn't spare her from Venezuela's medical "roulette" -- the practice of referring patients from hospital to hospital due to a lack of personnel, supplies or sanitary conditions.</p>

<p>Cabeza told AFP she "did the tour of every hospital in" Ciudad Guyana, the biggest town in the state of Bolivar, before returning to the place she started at, the Negra Hipolita maternity unit where "they took me in."</p>

<p>Incredibly, her case isn't rare in a country where many women are forced to give birth in the street because they can't get into a state medical facility.</p>

<p>At the beginning of November, a woman was filmed giving birth to her son squatting by a tree in front of the biggest hospital in Bolivar.</p>

<p>Venezuela is in the midst of an economic meltdown triggered by mismanagement and a slump in oil prices followed by US sanctions.</p>

<p>The United Nations says some 2.3 million people have fled Venezuela since 2015 and amongst them have been many doctors.</p>

<p><strong>Bring your own supplies</strong></p>

<p>According to a study by a dozen non-profits, some 22,000 doctors, more than half the former total, emigrated between 2012 and 2017.</p>

<p>Added to that, more than 6,000 nurses (74 per cent of that industry's workforce) and 6,600 lab technicians have left while there's a shortage of 90 per cent of necessary medicines and supplies.</p>

<p>Often, patients have turned away "because there are no surgical materials, no anesthesiologists. They don't even have chlorine to clean the cubicles," said Silvia Bolivar, a nurse at Concepcion Palacios, the biggest maternity unit in the capital Caracas.</p>

<p>Pregnant women are sometimes expected to bring their own disinfectant and garbage bags.</p>

<p>Venezuela has been suffering from four years of recession in which poverty is on the rise as food has become short in supply.</p>

<p>A caesarean section kit costs the equivalent of $100 at the black market rate while the minimum wage is 1,800 bolivars ($6) a month.</p>

<p>Inflation, which the International Monetary Fund predicts will reach 1.35 million per cent this year has crippled the currency as United States sanctions saw foreign investment dry up.</p>

<p><strong>Surging infant mortality</strong></p>

<p>The effect on pregnant women has been devastating.</p>

<p>Yusmari Vargas, 24, was suffering from preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure that can develop into a more serious one that puts both the mother and baby's lives at risk.</p>

<p>When she arrived at the maternity unit, it was closed. The hours passed, the contractions became stronger and her baby ended up on the floor, welcomed into the world with a bump to its head.</p>

<p>"When he fell, they didn't even help me pick him up, there was nothing to cut the umbilical cord. It was a mess," she said.</p>

<p>Carolina Rojas, 22, almost lost her daughter after her caesarian section was postponed several times.</p>

<p>"One day there was no specialist, the next the pediatrician or the anesthesiologist didn't turn up," said Rojas.</p>

<p>Her daughter swallowed amniotic fluid and spent eight days in hospital after she was born.</p>

<p>Infant mortality rose 30 per cent in 2016, with the deaths of 11,466 babies up to a year old, according to the latest Health Ministry figures.</p>

<p>Despite refusing to acknowledge the country's public health problems, President Nicolas Maduro launched a program to reduce the number of caesarian section births, but a year later he admitted it hadn't provided the expected results.</p>

<p><strong>'Terrible year'</strong></p>

<p>Suffering from post-natal pain, 32-year-old Yohanni Guarayote forced her way into the Negra Hipolita maternity unit, which locks its doors at night due to crime in the area.</p>

<p>She was only able to have two prenatal check-ups because she couldn't pay for a private clinic as her husband is unemployed.</p>

<p>"Some days the doctor didn't turn up, others there was no water, and so on," she said.</p>

<p>Her arms are so thin they look like a child's. During the pregnancy, she barely reached 43 kilograms (95 pounds), eating mostly sardines, yucca and squash.</p>

<p>"Now, I'm like a stick," she said, reclining in a sweltering room with six beds but no sheets.</p>

<p>She receives government subsidies but with another three children to feed, she says it's "not enough."</p>

<p>"This year has been terrible for pregnant women. They need to show more love to motherhood."</p>


Yoli Cabeza was sent from one hospital to another before finally giving birth to her daughter Yusmari in the corridor of a maternity ward because her contractions came quicker than medical help.

Yoli Cabeza was sent from one hospital to another before finally giving birth to her daughter Yusmari in the corridor of a maternity ward because her contractions came quicker than medical help. The 37-year-old was diagnosed with a high-risk pregnancy but that didn't spare her from Venezuela's medical "roulette" -- the practice of referring patients from hospital to hospital due to a lack of personnel, supplies or sanitary conditions. Cabeza told AFP she "did the tour of every hospital in" Ciudad Guyana, the biggest town in the state of Bolivar, before returning to the place she started at, the Negra Hipolita maternity unit where "they took me in." Incredibly, her case isn't rare in a country where many women are forced to give birth in the street because they can't get into a state medical facility. At the beginning of November, a woman was filmed giving birth to her son squatting by a tree in front of the biggest hospital in Bolivar. Venezuela is in the midst of an economic meltdown triggered by mismanagement and a slump in oil prices followed by US sanctions. The United Nations says some 2.3 million people have fled Venezuela since 2015 and amongst them have been many doctors. Bring your own supplies According to a study by a dozen non-profits, some 22,000 doctors, more than half the former total, emigrated between 2012 and 2017. Added to that, more than 6,000 nurses (74 per cent of that industry's workforce) and 6,600 lab technicians have left while there's a shortage of 90 per cent of necessary medicines and supplies. Often, patients have turned away "because there are no surgical materials, no anesthesiologists. They don't even have chlorine to clean the cubicles," said Silvia Bolivar, a nurse at Concepcion Palacios, the biggest maternity unit in the capital Caracas. Pregnant women are sometimes expected to bring their own disinfectant and garbage bags. Venezuela has been suffering from four years of recession in which poverty is on the rise as food has become short in supply. A caesarean section kit costs the equivalent of $100 at the black market rate while the minimum wage is 1,800 bolivars ($6) a month. Inflation, which the International Monetary Fund predicts will reach 1.35 million per cent this year has crippled the currency as United States sanctions saw foreign investment dry up. Surging infant mortality The effect on pregnant women has been devastating. Yusmari Vargas, 24, was suffering from preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure that can develop into a more serious one that puts both the mother and baby's lives at risk. When she arrived at the maternity unit, it was closed. The hours passed, the contractions became stronger and her baby ended up on the floor, welcomed into the world with a bump to its head. "When he fell, they didn't even help me pick him up, there was nothing to cut the umbilical cord. It was a mess," she said. Carolina Rojas, 22, almost lost her daughter after her caesarian section was postponed several times. "One day there was no specialist, the next the pediatrician or the anesthesiologist didn't turn up," said Rojas. Her daughter swallowed amniotic fluid and spent eight days in hospital after she was born. Infant mortality rose 30 per cent in 2016, with the deaths of 11,466 babies up to a year old, according to the latest Health Ministry figures. Despite refusing to acknowledge the country's public health problems, President Nicolas Maduro launched a program to reduce the number of caesarian section births, but a year later he admitted it hadn't provided the expected results. 'Terrible year' Suffering from post-natal pain, 32-year-old Yohanni Guarayote forced her way into the Negra Hipolita maternity unit, which locks its doors at night due to crime in the area. She was only able to have two prenatal check-ups because she couldn't pay for a private clinic as her husband is unemployed. "Some days the doctor didn't turn up, others there was no water, and so on," she said. Her arms are so thin they look like a child's. During the pregnancy, she barely reached 43 kilograms (95 pounds), eating mostly sardines, yucca and squash. "Now, I'm like a stick," she said, reclining in a sweltering room with six beds but no sheets. She receives government subsidies but with another three children to feed, she says it's "not enough." "This year has been terrible for pregnant women. They need to show more love to motherhood."

No doctors, nurses or painkillers: Surviving pregnancy in Venezuela

<p>The stork is visiting the Mukesh household soon as actor Neil Nitin Mukesh announced that he and his wife, Rukmini are expecting their first child together.<br />
<br />
Neil took to Instagram to post a photo of a Stork on its way to deliver a baby. The caption simply read 'To Be Delivered Soon'. Neil captioned the image as 'Now we will be THREE'</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh6uq-NlSBp/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Now we will be THREE ??</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/neilnitinmukesh/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Neil Nitin Mukesh</a> (@neilnitinmukesh) on <time datetime="2018-04-23T15:16:01+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">Apr 23, 2018 at 8:16am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Neil also posted another photo where a man and a woman can be seen holding baby shoes.&nbsp<br />
<br />
The actor's &nbspfather, singer Nitin Mukesh also shared the picture on Instagram and captioned it as, "And now they will be three."<br />
<br />
The couple got married in a lavish ceremony in February last year.<br />
<br />
Neil's announcement comes close on the heels of Shahid Kapoor's announcement of wife Mira's second pregnancy.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-shahid-kapoor-confirms-wife-miras-pregnancy-news-with-an-adorable-post-131737">Shahid Kapoor on Saturday </a>had announced that he and his wife were expecting their second baby. Shahid had posted a photo of 'big sister'Misha to announce the big news.<br />
<br />
Even sports star <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/good-news-sania-mirza-shoaib-malik-are-expecting-a-baby-132324">Sania Mirza announced her pregnancy.</a> Sania, who is married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Mallik, took to Twitter to announce the arrival of Baby Mirza-Malik.</p>

<p>On the work front, Neil will next be seen in Prabhas starrer&nbsp'Saaho' which has Neil playing the antagonist.&nbsp</p>


The couple is expecting their first child together.

The stork is visiting the Mukesh household soon as actor Neil Nitin Mukesh announced that he and his wife, Rukmini are expecting their first child together. Neil took to Instagram to post a photo of a Stork on its way to deliver a baby. The caption simply read 'To Be Delivered Soon'. Neil captioned the image as 'Now we will be THREE' Now we will be THREE ?? A post shared by Neil Nitin Mukesh (@neilnitinmukesh) on Apr 23, 2018 at 8:16am PDT × Neil also posted another photo where a man and a woman can be seen holding baby shoes. The actor's &nbspfather, singer Nitin Mukesh also shared the picture on Instagram and captioned it as, "And now they will be three." The couple got married in a lavish ceremony in February last year. Neil's announcement comes close on the heels of Shahid Kapoor's announcement of wife Mira's second pregnancy. Shahid Kapoor on Saturday had announced that he and his wife were expecting their second baby. Shahid had posted a photo of 'big sister'Misha to announce the big news. Even sports star Sania Mirza announced her pregnancy. Sania, who is married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Mallik, took to Twitter to announce the arrival of Baby Mirza-Malik. On the work front, Neil will next be seen in Prabhas starrer 'Saaho' which has Neil playing the antagonist.

Neil Nitin Mukesh announces wife Rukmini's pregnancy with a cute post

<p>The social media influencer family Kardashian-Jenner are back at grabbing headlines after&nbsp;Khlo&eacute; Kardashian shared a never-seen-before picture of herself and Kylie Jenner who recently became a mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an Instagram post,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-khlo-kardashian-wishes-fans-merry-christmas-showing-off-baby-bump-in-sparkles-27700" target="_blank">Khlo&eacute; </a>shared a photo of them twinning wearing crop tops, showing off their baby bumps while both were expecting. While Kylie announced on February 5 that she gave birth to a baby girl on February 1,&nbsp;Khlo&eacute; is still due.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-kim-kardashian-poses-topless-in-thong-and-body-glitter-25596" target="_blank">Also Read:&nbsp;Kim Kardashian poses topless in thong and body glitter</a></em></p>

<p>Khlo&eacute; captioned the post:&nbsp;&quot;Congratulations My Sweet Kylie! What a magical ride it&#39;s been! I&#39;ll miss you bumping along with me.&quot;</p>

<p>She added: &quot;Never in a million years did I think we would do this together but it&#39;s been that much more special because of it. God is so great!! He had His plan all along! I love you little mama ???? love big mama.&quot;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeywIbWh_IW/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Congratulations My Sweet Kylie! What a magical ride it&#39;s been! I&#39;ll miss you bumping along with me. Never in a million years did I think we would do this together but it&#39;s been that much more special because of it. God is so great!! He had His plan all along! I love you little mama ???? love big mama</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/khloekardashian/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Khlo&eacute;</a> (@khloekardashian) on <time datetime="2018-02-04T23:20:41+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 4, 2018 at 3:20pm PST</time></p>
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<p>In her announcement, Kylie also shared a video documenting her nine-month journey of giving birth.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-kylie-jenner-welcomes-baby-girl-apologises-to-fans-for-hiding-pregnancy-31800" target="_blank"><em>Also Read:&nbsp;Kylie Jenner welcomes baby girl, apologises to fans for hiding pregnancy</em></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Kylie Jenner gave birth to a baby girl on February 1 while Khloe is due soon

The social media influencer family Kardashian-Jenner are back at grabbing headlines after Khloé Kardashian shared a never-seen-before picture of herself and Kylie Jenner who recently became a mother. In an Instagram post, Khloé shared a photo of them twinning wearing crop tops, showing off their baby bumps while both were expecting. While Kylie announced on February 5 that she gave birth to a baby girl on February 1, Khloé is still due. Also Read: Kim Kardashian poses topless in thong and body glitter Khloé captioned the post: "Congratulations My Sweet Kylie! What a magical ride it's been! I'll miss you bumping along with me." She added: "Never in a million years did I think we would do this together but it's been that much more special because of it. God is so great!! He had His plan all along! I love you little mama ???? love big mama." Congratulations My Sweet Kylie! What a magical ride it's been! I'll miss you bumping along with me. Never in a million years did I think we would do this together but it's been that much more special because of it. God is so great!! He had His plan all along! I love you little mama ???? love big mama A post shared by Khloé (@khloekardashian) on Feb 4, 2018 at 3:20pm PST × In her announcement, Kylie also shared a video documenting her nine-month journey of giving birth. Also Read: Kylie Jenner welcomes baby girl, apologises to fans for hiding pregnancy

Kylie Jenner, Khloé Kardashian show off baby bumps in rare twinning picture

<p>US Senate Democrats blocked a controversial measure on Monday that would ban and criminalise abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, scuttling a longtime priority of conservatives in Congress. President Donald Trump described the failure of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act as &quot;disappointing,&quot; and urged senators to reconsider. The measure fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance the bill in the 100-member Senate, although it earned a narrow majority in the chamber, 51 to 46.</p>

<p>Congressional Republicans have for years sought to pass legislation that restricts abortion in the United States, despite the Supreme Court&#39;s landmark 1973 ruling upholding a woman&#39;s right to end a pregnancy. The bill, which would ban abortions after 20 weeks but provide exceptions for rape, incest and critical health risks to the mother, passed the Republican-controlled House of Representatives in October. &nbsp;But it faced a higher bar in the Senate, where opponents&#39; blocking tactics can force a 60-vote threshold.</p>

<p>&quot;We may not have the votes this time, but we are advancing the issue, and we&#39;re going to continue to fight for the unborn, particularly those who are capable of feeling pain after 20 weeks,&quot; Senator Lindsey Graham, the bill&#39;s chief sponsor, said in a statement. &quot;You&#39;re on the right side of history,&quot; Graham argued to supporters on the Senate floor. &quot;You&#39;re where America will be, it&#39;s just a matter of time when we get there.&quot;</p>

<p>The effort received support from Democrats Bob Casey, Joe Donnelly and Joe Manchin -- three senators up for re-election this year in states won by President Donald Trump in 2016.</p>

<p><strong>Senate should &#39;reconsider&#39;</strong></p>

<p>Two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, voted against the bill. &quot;It is disappointing that despite support from a bipartisan majority of US senators, this bill was blocked from further consideration,&quot; Trump said in a statement. &quot;We must defend those who cannot defend themselves. I urge the Senate to reconsider its decision and pass legislation that will celebrate, cherish and protect life.&quot;</p>

<p>Conservative groups have pointed to advancements in science that have allowed a small but increasing number of premature babies to survive outside the womb after five months of gestation. Senator Joni Ernst pointed to the case of five-year-old Micah Pickering, who was born at 22 weeks. &quot;By any measure, at five months of development, an unborn child is a child,&quot; Ernst said on the Senate floor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;They will scrunch their eyes, they&#39;ll clench their hands, they pull back their limbs in response to pain, just like any other child,&quot; she said. Trump, Graham and others noted that the United States is among just seven nations, including China and North Korea, that permit abortions after 20 weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several Democrats pushed back against the legislation, framing it as a war against access to safe and affordable health care for women. Senator Dianne Feinstein warned that the bill would weaken protections for women in the case of rape or incest. &quot;Senate Republicans are bringing up a bill today to undermine a woman&#39;s constitutional right to make decisions about her own body,&quot; she said on Twitter.</p>


The bill, which would ban abortions after 20 weeks but provide exceptions for rape, incest and critical health risks to the mother, passed the Republican-controlled House of Representatives in October

US Senate Democrats blocked a controversial measure on Monday that would ban and criminalise abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, scuttling a longtime priority of conservatives in Congress. President Donald Trump described the failure of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act as "disappointing," and urged senators to reconsider. The measure fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance the bill in the 100-member Senate, although it earned a narrow majority in the chamber, 51 to 46. Congressional Republicans have for years sought to pass legislation that restricts abortion in the United States, despite the Supreme Court's landmark 1973 ruling upholding a woman's right to end a pregnancy. The bill, which would ban abortions after 20 weeks but provide exceptions for rape, incest and critical health risks to the mother, passed the Republican-controlled House of Representatives in October. But it faced a higher bar in the Senate, where opponents' blocking tactics can force a 60-vote threshold. "We may not have the votes this time, but we are advancing the issue, and we're going to continue to fight for the unborn, particularly those who are capable of feeling pain after 20 weeks," Senator Lindsey Graham, the bill's chief sponsor, said in a statement. "You're on the right side of history," Graham argued to supporters on the Senate floor. "You're where America will be, it's just a matter of time when we get there." The effort received support from Democrats Bob Casey, Joe Donnelly and Joe Manchin -- three senators up for re-election this year in states won by President Donald Trump in 2016. Senate should 'reconsider' Two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, voted against the bill. "It is disappointing that despite support from a bipartisan majority of US senators, this bill was blocked from further consideration," Trump said in a statement. "We must defend those who cannot defend themselves. I urge the Senate to reconsider its decision and pass legislation that will celebrate, cherish and protect life." Conservative groups have pointed to advancements in science that have allowed a small but increasing number of premature babies to survive outside the womb after five months of gestation. Senator Joni Ernst pointed to the case of five-year-old Micah Pickering, who was born at 22 weeks. "By any measure, at five months of development, an unborn child is a child," Ernst said on the Senate floor. "They will scrunch their eyes, they'll clench their hands, they pull back their limbs in response to pain, just like any other child," she said. Trump, Graham and others noted that the United States is among just seven nations, including China and North Korea, that permit abortions after 20 weeks. Several Democrats pushed back against the legislation, framing it as a war against access to safe and affordable health care for women. Senator Dianne Feinstein warned that the bill would weaken protections for women in the case of rape or incest. "Senate Republicans are bringing up a bill today to undermine a woman's constitutional right to make decisions about her own body," she said on Twitter.

US Senate defeats bill banning, criminalising abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy

<p>Bipasha Basu lashed out on media today for speculating her pregnancy.</p>

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<p>The <em>Jism</em> actress took to Twitter saying &quot;Guys, I&#39;m not pregnant. Stay calm, it will happen only when we want it.&quot;</p>

<p>Bipasha&#39;s tweet suggested that media started speculating her pregnancy after some reporters spotted her with a bag placed on her lap as she got inside her car.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amused yet again. I kept a bag on my lap while getting into my car and certain media ppl started my pregnancy speculation again????Guys i am not pregnant .Kinda getting irritating ????Stay calm.. it will happen only when we want it????</p>
&mdash; Bipasha Basu (@bipsluvurself) <a href="https://twitter.com/bipsluvurself/status/953566781515251714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;Amused yet again. I kept a bag on my lap while getting into my car and certain media ppl started my pregnancy speculation again,&quot; read her tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time when reports speculating Bipasha&#39;s pregnancy surfaced in media.</p>

<p>The actress was previously spotted along with her husband Karan Singh Grover outside a private hospital in Mumbai which was followed by similar rumours and speculations.&nbsp;</p>


Media started speculating Bipasha's pregnancy after some reporters spotted her with a bag placed on her lap as she got inside her car

Bipasha Basu lashed out on media today for speculating her pregnancy. × The Jism actress took to Twitter saying "Guys, I'm not pregnant. Stay calm, it will happen only when we want it." Bipasha's tweet suggested that media started speculating her pregnancy after some reporters spotted her with a bag placed on her lap as she got inside her car. Amused yet again. I kept a bag on my lap while getting into my car and certain media ppl started my pregnancy speculation again????Guys i am not pregnant .Kinda getting irritating ????Stay calm.. it will happen only when we want it???? — Bipasha Basu (@bipsluvurself) January 17, 2018 × "Amused yet again. I kept a bag on my lap while getting into my car and certain media ppl started my pregnancy speculation again," read her tweet. This is not the first time when reports speculating Bipasha's pregnancy surfaced in media. The actress was previously spotted along with her husband Karan Singh Grover outside a private hospital in Mumbai which was followed by similar rumours and speculations.

Bipasha Basu takes to Twitter, says 'I am not pregnant'

<p>A baby suffering from a birth defect caused by the Zika virus was born on Tuesday in New Jersey to a woman visiting from Honduras who is infected with virus after she was bitten by a mosquito early on in her pregnancy, media reported.</p>

<p>The baby girl is suffering from severe microcephaly, a birth defect marked by small head size that can lead to severe developmental problems, after she was delivered through cesarean section at Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, New Jersey, the news website NorthJersey.com reported.</p>

<p>U.S.&nbsp;health&nbsp;officials have concluded that Zika infections in pregnant women can cause microcephaly. The World&nbsp;Health&nbsp;Organization has said there is strong scientific consensus that Zika can also cause Guillain-Barre, a rare neurological syndrome that causes temporary paralysis in adults.</p>

<p>The connection between Zika and microcephaly first came to light last fall in Brazil, which has now confirmed more than 1,300 cases of microcephaly that it considers to be related to Zika infections in the mothers.</p>

<p>The unidentified premature newborn also suffers from intestinal and visual issues, Manny Alvarez, chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Hackensack, told NorthJersey.com.</p>

<p>&quot;You could see the pain in her heart,&quot; Alvarez said of the mother, the website reported.</p>

<p>Hospital officials were not available for comment.</p>

<p>The unidentified 31-year-old mother was staying with relatives after she arrived in the United States more than a month ago from Honduras, where she was bitten by a mosquito, Alvarez said.</p>

<p>Zika is carried by mosquitoes, which transmit the virus to humans. A small number of cases of sexual transmission have been reported in the United States and elsewhere. A case of suspected transmission through a blood transfusion in Brazil has raised questions about other ways that Zika may spread.</p>

<p>In January, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that a U.S. woman who had lived in Brazil gave birth to a microcephalic baby in Hawaii.</p>

<p>The Zika outbreak is affecting large parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, with Brazil the hardest hit.</p>

<p>Honduras is the Central American country with the highest number of Zika cases, with 19,000 infections, and at least 238 pregnant women infected. It has also detected at least 78 Guillain-Barre cases.</p>

<p>There is no vaccine or treatment for Zika, which is a close cousin of dengue and chikungunya and causes mild fever, rash and red eyes. An estimated 80 percent of people infected have no symptoms, making it difficult for pregnant women to know whether they have been infected.</p>


A baby suffering from a birth defect caused by the Zika virus was born on Tuesday in New Jersey to a woman visiting from Honduras who is infected with virus after she was bitten by a mosquito early on in her pregnancy, media reported.

A baby suffering from a birth defect caused by the Zika virus was born on Tuesday in New Jersey to a woman visiting from Honduras who is infected with virus after she was bitten by a mosquito early on in her pregnancy, media reported. The baby girl is suffering from severe microcephaly, a birth defect marked by small head size that can lead to severe developmental problems, after she was delivered through cesarean section at Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, New Jersey, the news website NorthJersey.com reported. U.S. health officials have concluded that Zika infections in pregnant women can cause microcephaly. The World Health Organization has said there is strong scientific consensus that Zika can also cause Guillain-Barre, a rare neurological syndrome that causes temporary paralysis in adults. The connection between Zika and microcephaly first came to light last fall in Brazil, which has now confirmed more than 1,300 cases of microcephaly that it considers to be related to Zika infections in the mothers. The unidentified premature newborn also suffers from intestinal and visual issues, Manny Alvarez, chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Hackensack, told NorthJersey.com. "You could see the pain in her heart," Alvarez said of the mother, the website reported. Hospital officials were not available for comment. The unidentified 31-year-old mother was staying with relatives after she arrived in the United States more than a month ago from Honduras, where she was bitten by a mosquito, Alvarez said. Zika is carried by mosquitoes, which transmit the virus to humans. A small number of cases of sexual transmission have been reported in the United States and elsewhere. A case of suspected transmission through a blood transfusion in Brazil has raised questions about other ways that Zika may spread. In January, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that a U.S. woman who had lived in Brazil gave birth to a microcephalic baby in Hawaii. The Zika outbreak is affecting large parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, with Brazil the hardest hit. Honduras is the Central American country with the highest number of Zika cases, with 19,000 infections, and at least 238 pregnant women infected. It has also detected at least 78 Guillain-Barre cases. There is no vaccine or treatment for Zika, which is a close cousin of dengue and chikungunya and causes mild fever, rash and red eyes. An estimated 80 percent of people infected have no symptoms, making it difficult for pregnant women to know whether they have been infected.

Baby born with birth defect in New Jersey to mother infected by Zika

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