Health News

Baby’s Brain Blunted on Meth
There is no doubt that pregnant women should not use meth. If they do, their babies could be at risk for underdeveloped brains and at future risk for mental disorders.
Watch for Warning Signs of Child Abuse--EMBARGOED until 3/10/13 at 11:01pm CST
If possible victims of child abuse could be identified early on, it could save a lot of heartache and pain for everyone involved. Paying attention to babies' injuries may be an important step. A recent study found that infants who are victims of child abuse are more likely to have had another earlier unlikely injury when they were even younger – before they could even crawl. Among a group of abused and nonabused babies evaluated at a hospital, only the abused children had histories of previous injuries, such as bruising. The researchers found that babies with a suspicious minor inj...
Handling the Anxiety of a New Baby
Awareness about postpartum depression has grown over the past several decades. Women are realizing they are not alone and can seek help. But fewer are aware of postpartum anxiety.
The Risks for Babies Born to Alcoholics
Alcohol and pregnancy don't mix. And neither does alcoholism and a baby's first year of life. Mothers who don't have alcohol problems are much more likely to see their babies grow up.
Moms in the Military Doing All Right
Deploying overseas in the military can be stressful for any soldier. So one could imagine it may be even rougher for women who deploy after having a baby.
Mom’s Inflammation Linked to Autism
Past research has shown that autism risk was higher when mothers were sick during pregnancy. New research sheds some light on how illness might be affecting autism risk.
Smoke-Free Air Helps Prevent Preemies
Cigarette smoke and unborn babies don’t mix. Pregnant moms may be able to control secondhand smoke exposure at home. But in public places, smoking bans are the only protection.
A Medication Risk Factor for Autism
There is no known single cause for autism. However, certain diseases or medications during pregnancy have been linked to autism. One culprit may be a medication used to treat epilepsy.
Folic Acid May Protect Against Autism
Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy may help lower the risk of some birth defects. Researchers wanted to know if folic acid was linked to autism in any way.
Can We Lower Babies' Schizophrenia Risk?
Some mental disorders are linked to specific genes. But that does not mean a person with a certain gene is destined to develop that disorder. Healthy practices may decrease the risk.