Health News
More than the Baby Blues
Only a small percentage of women who take their own lives are pregnant or have recently become mothers, but one in five to ten pregnant and postpartum women have depressive disorders.
Epilepsy Drug Linked to Autism
The exact causes of autism are still not known, and much of how the disorder develops remain a mystery. Many studies point to prenatal development links.
Imaging Test Prevents Difficult Childbirth
Many pregnant women worry that the joy and excitement of childbirth may be hindered because of problems during delivery. A new test can help predict whether the delivery will be smooth or difficult.
Babies Who Eat Fish at Lower Risk of Pre-School Wheeze
Some moms may be reluctant to give their baby fish because of concern over fish mercury levels. However, new moms may want to reconsider fish as part of their infant’s diet, as a recent study shows that feeding your baby fish in the first nine months can help prevent pre-school wheeze.
High Blood Pressure Linked to Depression in Pregnancy
For pregnant women, a history of high blood pressure before pregnancy means a higher risk of depression, which is also associated with postpartum depression and difficulty bonding with the baby.
Preterm Birth Tied to Mom's Lack of Sleep
For a pregnant woman, good sleep is important for both her own health and the development of her growing baby. Not getting enough quality sleep, especially in the first and third trimesters, increases a woman's risk for delivering her baby preterm.
Pregnancy Thyroid Screenings
For women who are pregnant, reduced thyroid function can have adverse effects on both the woman's health, and that of her unborn baby. These effects can include the risk of miscarriage and premature birth, but the universal screening of pregnant women for thyroid disfunction is still controversial due to costs.
Baby-Friendly Hospitals on Horizon
Breastfeeding is one of the most effective preventive measures a mother can take to protect the health of her infant. It lowers medical costs, provides invaluable immunities, and helps protect against childhood obesity and many other illnesses including diabetes, sudden infant death syndrome, respiratory and ear infections.
Flu Shots While Pregnant are Safe
If you’re pregnant, getting a flu shot is a good idea. Not only can it help you ward off the seasonal flu, it also will help protect your baby from infection - and it won’t cause miscarriage, say studies that will be released this week.
Managing Blood Pressure While Pregnant
Pregnant women who take high blood pressure medications in the first trimester are not putting their baby at risk of birth defects. But not managing high blood pressure itself can increase many risks.