#304 – 🗞️ NeoNews - What is new in neonatal and perinatal care

In this week’s episode of NeoNews, the team takes a deep dive into global fertility trends and the complex forces shaping the future of parenthood. The conversation starts with a discussion on worldwide declines in fertility rates, highlighting the economic pressures and societal shifts that are making the decision to have children more difficult across the globe. The hosts reflect on how financial instability, the high cost of living, and long-term uncertainty are reshaping family planning choices — even in countries with strong social support systems.

The discussion moves into the emerging markets around fertility treatments, shedding light on the ethical complexities of the global egg donation industry. Later, the team explores the rising challenges in pediatric and neonatology workforce training, offering insights into the evolving demands of the medical field. Finally, the group reviews new research on the microbiome, developmental care in the NICU, and how income mobility impacts child health outcomes.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share honest, thoughtful reflections on the heavy pressures families and healthcare providers face today. It’s a conversation about hope, hardship, and the small ways we can support the next generation, even amid a changing world.

As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below.

Enjoy!