The objective of this Branch is to increase knowledge related to pregnancy and maternal health, fetal growth and health, labor and delivery and infant well-being. This area is concerned with those factors, both normal and abnormal, which influence the course and outcome of pregnancy. Information is sought about maternal physiology, environmental variables, and those events, conditions, and treatments occurring during pregnancy which contribute to adverse outcomes, e.g., low birth weight infants. Adolescent pregnancy is of special interest.
Studies focus on the biologic and health impact on mother and infant.
Investigation of the pathogenesis of apparent and inapparent maternal infections and their effects on fetal development are promoted with the aim to improve treatment and prevention. Studies to examine effects of maternal medications and mother's use and abuse of drugs on fetal development are strongly encouraged. The Branch supports studies of the physiologic, metabolic, endocrinologic, and pharmacologic events related to abnormal development of the fetus. They include studies of the morphology, function, and metabolism of the placenta and uterine blood flow. Studies are encouraged to improve existing methodologies for antenatal diagnosis regarding fetal status, growth, position, maturity, and well-being.