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Center for Reproductive Biology and Health

Faculty who are deeply committed to the improvement of reproductive health and function through integration of fundamental and applied research and dissemination of knowledge

The Center for Reproductive Biology and Health (CRBH) provides a forum for faculty to engage in discussion of new ideas, seek input on experimental designs, and broaden their perspectives on questions in reproductive biology.

The CRBH organizes workshops, seminars, and an annual retreat for presentation of recent data from member laboratories.

The breadth of expertise among CRBH faculty provides exceptional learning experiences for students in undergraduate and graduate classes, and ensures that outreach specialists convey the most accurate and up-to-date information.

News

Elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy may result in poorer birth outcomes

Pregnant women in the United States are routinely tested for gestational diabetes, a condition where the body has high blood sugar during pregnancy that can lead to health problems for both mothers and babies. In a recent study led by Penn State researchers, scientists examined records from thousands of births and found that failing the glucose challenge test was associated with babies with higher birth weights — a risk factor for future obesity and diabetes — even when women passed their second glucose test.

Q&A: What should women do to keep their bones healthy?

One in 10 Americans experience osteoporosis, which significantly weakens bones and makes them more prone to fracture. Women comprise 80% of people with osteoporosis, and women approaching or in menopause are at the highest risk, according to Mary Jane De Souza, distinguished professor of kinesiology and physiology. De Souza explained that May serves as both Osteoporosis Awareness Month and Women’s Health Month, making it the ideal time for both women and men to learn how to maintain healthy bones for as long as possible.

Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report

When active and athletic girls and women don’t eat enough food to meet their body’s energy needs, it can disrupt key systems in the body and lead to irregular or absent menstrual cycles and impaired bone health, including osteoporosis and bone stress injuries.

News

Elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy may result in poorer birth outcomes

Pregnant women in the United States are routinely tested for gestational diabetes, a condition where the body has high blood sugar during pregnancy that can lead to health problems for both mothers and babies. In a recent study led by Penn State researchers, scientists examined records from thousands of births and found that failing the glucose challenge test was associated with babies with higher birth weights — a risk factor for future obesity and diabetes — even when women passed their second glucose test.

Q&A: What should women do to keep their bones healthy?

One in 10 Americans experience osteoporosis, which significantly weakens bones and makes them more prone to fracture. Women comprise 80% of people with osteoporosis, and women approaching or in menopause are at the highest risk, according to Mary Jane De Souza, distinguished professor of kinesiology and physiology. De Souza explained that May serves as both Osteoporosis Awareness Month and Women’s Health Month, making it the ideal time for both women and men to learn how to maintain healthy bones for as long as possible.

Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report

When active and athletic girls and women don’t eat enough food to meet their body’s energy needs, it can disrupt key systems in the body and lead to irregular or absent menstrual cycles and impaired bone health, including osteoporosis and bone stress injuries.

College of Ag Sciences research tour explores connection between food, health

Government and industry stakeholders got a literal taste of the future of agriculture by sampling hydroponically grown greens at one of several presentations during the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences’ annual Legislative Research Tour, held Sept. 25 at the University Park campus.