As a parent of a young child, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing who will care for your child while you’re at work.
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Acute fatty liver of pregnancy is a rare, but serious, condition of pregnancy in which there is an excessive accumulation of fat in the liver or liver cells.
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Although your milk is best, it is not always complete with the nutritional needs of very small premature babies or some very sick newborns.
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Infants and children under age 4 are particularly at risk for choking on food or small objects because their upper airways are smaller, and they tend to explore things with their mouths.
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Alcohol consumption by the mother is a leading cause of preventable birth defects in the fetus. In addition, the risk for miscarriage and stillbirth increases with alcohol consumption.
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Alpha-fetoprotein screening is a blood test that measures the level of AFP in the mothers' blood. Abnormal levels may indicate certain problems with the fetus.
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Amniocentesis can provide valuable information about the health of your baby before it is born. Amniocentesis is a procedure used to obtain a small sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy.
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Amniocentesis is a procedure used to obtain a small sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy.
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Amniocentesis is a procedure used to obtain a small sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The fluid is analyzed to help diagnose certain birth defects.
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Too much or too little amniotic fluid around the fetus can cause problems. These include preterm labor, birth defects, and underdeveloped lungs in the fetus.
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The female pelvic area contains a number of organs and structures: the endometrium, uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, and vulva.
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A thin-walled sac surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The sac is filled with amniotic fluid, which protects the fetus from injury.
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Doctor appointments and baby showers aren’t the only things that can tucker you out when you’re pregnant. Anemia is a condition that also can make you feel fatigued. Find out what you need to know to safeguard yourself.
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An anorectal malformation is a birth defect in which the anus and rectum do not develop properly.
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This disease can have serious effects in pregnancy, both for the mother and the baby. These include strokes, blood clots, and recurrent miscarriage.
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It’s a cliché that many new parents need to reassure themselves that the baby is still breathing. But what if your baby really is having breathing problems? A breathing condition called apnea of prematurity affects some babies, especially if they’re born early. But you can learn what symptoms to look for.
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With proper asthma management and good prenatal care, most women with asthma can have healthy pregnancies.
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Many mothers find they maintain milk production more easily if they breastfeed before showering or getting ready for work and then breastfeed again just before leaving the baby with the care provider.
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Putting babies to sleep on their backs has dramatically reduced the incidence of SIDS. One unexpected side effect: Many infants now have a flattened head.
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For many women, the "baby blues" pass quickly. For others, the feelings of sadness don't ease and may become worse.
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Because most brain development takes place after birth, parents have many opportunities to contribute to the brain's healthy development.
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Because babies born by cesarean may have difficulty clearing some of the lung fluid and mucus, extra suctioning of the nose, mouth, and throat are often needed.
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Healthy babies born in a vaginal delivery are usually able to stay with the mother. In many cases, immediate newborn assessments are performed right in the mother's room.
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Back pain is common in pregnancy, because of your changing body. Here are ideas on what you can do to cope.
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Bath time is a great time to bond with your newborn while keeping his/her skin healthy and cuddly soft. Get the facts—and proper supplies—to make these moments safe and enjoyable for both you and baby.
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Although a baby's activity level, appetite, and cries normally vary from day to day, even hour to hour, a distinct change in any of these areas may signal illness.
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Remember scenes from old movies where the husband paces around the waiting room while his wife is in labor? As a father-to-be today, you know that you can participate throughout your partner's pregnancy.
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A biophysical profile is a test that’s sometimes given during your third trimester of pregnancy. It is typically done if the health of your baby is in question because of the results of another test, because of certain pregnancy symptoms, or if your pregnancy is high risk.
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A biophysical profile is a test that combines a nonstress test with ultrasound. It's usually performed in the last trimester.
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Here's a tough one: When is an unborn baby most at risk of developing abnormalities?
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For various reasons, some babies have a more difficult trip through the birth canal than others, resulting in physical injuries. Such injuries usually are not serious and clear up or improve within a few days or weeks following the birth.
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Statistics relating to birth rates
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Bleeding may occur at various times in pregnancy. Although bleeding is alarming, it may or may not be a serious complication.
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During pregnancy, the fetal lungs are not used for breathing—the placenta does the work of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide through the mother's circulation. With the first breaths of air the baby takes at birth, the fetal circulation changes.
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A baby may have the blood type and Rh factor of either parent, or a combination of both parents.
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Detailed information on bottle-feeding, including information on the different types of baby formula
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Hospital-grade, electric breast pumps are the only pumps built for frequent and prolonged use. These pumps automatically cycle suction with release of suction—similar to a baby's sucking action.
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Your milk contains just the right balance of nutrients, and it contains them in a form most easily used by the human baby's immature body systems.
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"Fresh breast milk" contains the most active anti-infective properties. Refrigerated breast milk has fewer anti-infective properties than fresh milk and frozen breast milk has the least.
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Breastfeeding is filled with benefits to your child and you. Do you know what they are?
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If you listen closely, you’ll notice that your baby’s breathing isn’t like yours. Babies breathe much more frequently and with different patterns than adults. Here’s how to recognize normal breathing in your infant—and how to spot signs of respiratory distress.
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First, determine the first day of your last menstrual period. Next, count back three calendar months and add one year and seven days to that date.
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A woman with a multiple pregnancy needs more calories and nutrients, more frequent prenatal visits, and more rest.
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A newborn baby is wet from the amniotic fluid and can easily become cold. Drying the baby and using warm blankets and heat lamps can help prevent heat loss. Often a knitted hat is placed on the baby's head.
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Nap when your baby naps. Take warm, shallow baths several times a day if you had stitches after delivery. Wear a supportive bra and use warm compresses to help with milk letdown.
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Cesarean delivery is the surgical delivery of a baby by an incision through the mother's abdomen and uterus. This procedure is performed when it is determined to be a safer method than a vaginal delivery for the mother, baby, or both.
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Cesarean delivery (also called a cesarean section or C-section) is the surgical delivery of a baby by an incision through the mother's abdomen and uterus.
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Choosing a childcare provider for your baby is an important decision. Find one who supports your choice to breastfeed and is willing to carry out your plan. Doing so will give you peace of mind and make your transition back to work easier.
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Your little one will need several immunization shots to help protect her from several childhood diseases, some of which can be deadly. Knowing which shots she needs, when, and what to do in the event of a minor reaction is important.
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Cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition in which the normal flow of bile in the gallbladder is slowed or stopped resulting in itching and jaundice.
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A pediatrician, family practice physician, or pediatric nurse practitioner can be your baby's primary care provider. The medical specialty dealing with children is called pediatrics.
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Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the membranes and amniotic fluid. It occurs in about 1 to 2 percent of all pregnancies, but is much more common in preterm births.
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This prenatal test involves taking a sample of tissue from the placenta to test for chromosomal abnormalities and certain other genetic problems.
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The chorionic villi are tiny projections of placental tissue that look like fingers and contain the same genetic material as the fetus. Testing may be available for other genetic defects and disorders depending on the family history and availability of lab testing at the time of the procedure.
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When a woman has pre-existing hypertension or develops hypertension before the 20th week of pregnancy, this is called chronic hypertension.
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If your baby was born premature and needed to be on a respirator, her lungs may have been damaged. This can cause a condition called chronic lung disease (CLD). But CLD can be treated, and as lungs mature the condition can improve. Learn about the symptoms and treatments for CLD.
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Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin that covers the tip of the penis.
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Whether you decided to have your baby boy circumcised or not, it’s important to know how to care for his special needs. Find tips for caring for both circumcised and uncircumcised babies.
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Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies, including cleft lip and cleft palate
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Detailed information on clubfoot, including causes, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and cast care
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Though the name sounds like a disease, colic is really just a term for excessive crying in an infant. Unfortunately, nobody knows for sure what causes colic, but there are several theories and possible risk factors for the condition.
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Nausea and vomiting are common in the first trimester, as is fatigue. Other common discomforts are hemorrhoids and heartburn.
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Certain tests and screenings may be scheduled during your pregnancy. Your health care provider will advise you on which tests you'll need.
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Having more than one baby is especially exciting—and complicated. Find out what to watch for, including a greater chance of anemia and preterm birth.
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Some of the more common complications of pregnancy are miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and bleeding.
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Heart problems are the most common kind of birth defects. While children with some heart defects can be monitored by a doctor and treated with medicine, others will need to have surgery.
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You have a lot of options when it comes to birth control. Some methods don't require a doctor's visit, but others, like oral contraceptives, are available only by prescription.
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A pregnancy ended by miscarriage can be a traumatic loss. Unfortunately, it’s one that many women experience. Knowing how to deal with your feelings and find support can help you cope during this difficult time.
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Cord blood banking is an option for parents who want to preserve the blood of the umbilical cord and placenta of their baby as “insurance” to help with possible future medical needs of their child.
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CMV may be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy and is the most common congenital viral infection.
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Before the simple blood test that checks for PKU became routine, the condition could go undetected long enough to cause severe intellectual disability. Now the disorder can be diagnosed before it leads to any damage.
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A delay in the time when milk "comes in" sometimes occurs after the birth of a high-risk baby. Also, it is not unusual to experience a drop in the amount being pumped after several weeks.
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In preparation of the delivery, you may be moved into a birthing room or delivery room, or you may remain in the same room for both labor and delivery.
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Detailed information on developmental dysplasia of the hip, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and cast care
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It's important for a woman with diabetes to keep her blood sugar under tight control while she's pregnant.
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You have two choices in diapers—cloth or disposable, and each type has advantages. You must decide which works best for your child and family.
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A diaphragmatic hernia is a birth defect in which an opening is present in the diaphragm. Some of the organs that are normally found in the abdomen move up into the chest cavity through this abnormal opening.
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A dilation and curettage procedure, also called a D and C, is a surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated so that the cervical canal and uterine lining can be scraped with a spoon-shaped instrument to remove abnormal tissues.
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A dilation and curettage is a surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated so that the cervical canal and uterine lining can be scraped with a curette to remove abnormal tissues.
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Whether you have a turtle or a parrot or a tabby cat, the best prevention against disease is cleanliness.
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Abuse often begins with verbal behaviors such as name-calling, threats, and hitting or throwing objects. It can become worse, including pushing, slapping, and holding against the victim's will.
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Doppler flow is a type of ultrasound that measures the flow of blood through a blood vessel. Doppler flow studies may be used to assess blood flow in the umbilical blood vein and arteries, fetal brain, and fetal heart.
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Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that includes a combination of birth defects, including some degree of mental retardation, characteristic facial features and, often, heart defects.
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During pregnancy, is it OK to take an aspirin for that headache or a sleeping pill when you’re tossing and turning at night? Take this quiz to get the answers on different types of drugs and if they may have harmful effects on your unborn child.
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It is important to know your estimated due date in order to help plan for the baby's birth.
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Ectopic pregnancies nearly always occur in the fallopian tube. Rarely, an ectopic pregnancy will be located in an ovary or in the cervix, or even in the abdomen.
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Think there’s only one way to breast-feed? Think again! Moms can position their babies in several positions during feeding time that can be comfortable for both.
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It’s important for your baby’s health to be able to effectively remove milk from your breast during nursing. To do this, your baby must learn the proper way to suck. But how do you know if your baby is actually getting the nutrition he/she needs? Here’s a guide to help you.
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An endometrial biopsy is a procedure performed to obtain a small tissue sample from the lining of the uterus.
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An endometrial biopsy is used to obtain a small tissue sample from the lining of the uterus. The tissue is examined under a microscope to identify the presence of abnormal cells.
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Women with endometriosis develop tissue that looks and acts like endometrial tissue outside the uterus, usually on other reproductive organs inside the pelvis or in the abdominal cavity.
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Epilepsy and the medications to treat it can have affect the mother, the pregnancy, and the fetus and newborn. Fortunately, most women are able to have a healthy pregnancy and baby.
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During childbirth, the vagina may not stretch enough. If this occurs, your health care provider may perform an episiotomy to help enlarge the opening and deliver the baby.
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If you exercised before pregnancy, you can safely continue exercising. If you were inactive or you have medical complications, talk with your doctor before beginning to exercise.
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There are benefits to getting regular exercise during pregnancy for most women. Work with your health care provider to develop a safe exercise program you can do throughout your pregnancy. This video discusses the benefits of exercise, as well as recommendations on how to exercise.
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The fetal heart rate may change as the fetus responds to conditions in the uterus. An abnormal fetal heart rate or pattern may indicate that the fetus is not getting enough oxygen or that there are other problems.
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Fetal heart rate monitoring is a procedure used to evaluate the well-being of the fetus by assessing the rate and rhythm of the fetal heartbeat. The fetal heart rate may change as the fetus responds to conditions in the uterus. An abnormal fetal heart rate or pattern may indicate that the fetus is not getting enough oxygen.
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It's important to feed your baby a variety of healthy foods at the proper time. Solid foods should not be started before 4 months of age.
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Fetal alcohol syndrome refers to a group of abnormalities in babies born to mothers who drink during pregnancy. The problems include small head and brain, facial abnormalities, and defects of other organs.
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Fetal blood sampling is a procedure to remove a small amount of blood from the fetus during pregnancy. It may be taken to diagnose problems or an infection.
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Fetal movement counting, often called kick counting, is a way a mother can help monitor the movements of her unborn baby by counting the number of kicks in a certain time period.
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Fetal ultrasound is a test used during pregnancy that creates an image of the fetus in the mother's uterus, or womb.
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Detailed information on fevers in children
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For many women, the extreme tiredness of the first trimester is quite a surprise. And it’s an especially hard transition for those who are normally go-getters with lots of energy.
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Screening during the first trimester is a combination of ultrasound and two blood tests. These tests can help determine the risk of certain birth defects.
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Detailed information on breastfeeding and flat or inverted nipples
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Getting enough folic acid can reduce the risk for neural tube defects (NTDs) and may also reduce the risk for other serious birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.
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One in eight U.S. babies is preterm, says the Institute of Medicine. That's a rise of 30 percent in recent decades.
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Hiccups. Belching. Stomachache. Sound like a case of heartburn? It isn’t an adults-only condition. If your baby has some of these symptoms, she may have gastroesophageal reflux. If feeding changes don’t bring relief, your doctor may prescribe medications to help.
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If your baby seems fussy and you’ve fed and changed him, he may have an upset stomach or colic. But don’t worry, there are lots of things you can do to make your little one more comfortable and keep both of you calm.
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Genetics is the study of the patterns of inheritance - how traits and characteristics are passed from parents to their children.
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It’s not always easy to tell a newborn’s age by their size. Premature babies are usually small, but full-term and past-term babies can be small, too. That’s when doctors will perform a gestational assessment to determine if a newborn needs special treatment.
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Gestational diabetes is a condition in which a pregnant woman has elevated glucose levels and other symptoms of diabetes—but did not have diabetes before she became pregnant.
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Pregnancy-induced hypertension is also called toxemia or preeclampsia. It occurs most often in young women with a first pregnancy.
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About two weeks before you return to work, start pumping or expressing milk for storage to use once you return to work.
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Newborns need just some basic items at first—a warm and safe place to sleep, food, clothing, and diapers.
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The first weeks of breastfeeding should be considered a learning period for both you and your baby. Don't expect to work as a coordinated team immediately.
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Getting to know your new baby is part of a fascinating but relatively simple process called bonding, in which you essentially "fall in love" with each other.
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Glossary of terms relating to pregnancy
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You’ve probably never heard of group B streptococcus. That’s because you didn’t need to before you were pregnant. This bacterium generally doesn’t cause problems for healthy nonpregnant women. But it can cause illness in pregnant women and their babies. Here’s what you need to know.
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Managing headaches is especially tricky in the first trimester when you should avoid medications.
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More than 4 million babies will be born in the United States this year alone. Now, more than ever, mothers-to-be have access to current information, advanced technologies, and skilled medical personnel. The Healthy Pregnancy Guide provides an individualized tool to help plan for a healthy pregnancy and childbirth. With medical information and practical tips, you will be well-prepared to recognize the changes that are in store for you and your baby.
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Test your knowledge of which behaviors are most helpful and harmful to your developing baby.
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Hearing loss in babies is rare in this country, but when it does occur, it's important to diagnose it early. Undetected hearing loss can delay speech and language development.
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In pregnancy, blood volume increases greatly. This extra fluid puts an increased workload on the heart and may cause problems for a woman with heart disease.
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HELLP syndrome is a serious complication of severe pregnancy-induced high blood pressure. It usually develops before delivery, but may also occur after delivery.
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This condition occurs when an incompatibility exists between the blood types of the mother and baby.
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An infant or young child who contracts hepatitis B is at greater risk of staying infected with the virus and of having life-long liver problems, such as scarring of the liver and liver cancer.
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A hernia occurs when a section of intestine protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal muscles. In babies, this usually occurs around the navel or in the groin area.
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It is important that women avoid contracting herpes during pregnancy, because a first episode during pregnancy creates a greater risk of transmission to the newborn.
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Many hormone levels are affected in the body during pregnancy, with several hormones playing major roles.
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Chromosome abnormalities usually happen as a result of an error in cell division.
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Detailed information on how breast milk is made for breastfeeding
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Most babies with HIV contract the infection from their HIV-infected mother during pregnancy, or during labor and delivery.
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This disease is one of the most common problems of premature babies. It can cause babies to need extra oxygen and help in breathing.
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Hydrocephalus is a condition in which a buildup of fluid in the brain causes the pressure inside of the head to increase and the skull bones to expand to a larger-than-normal appearance.
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This is a life-threatening problem of severe swelling in the fetus and newborn. It develops when too much fluid leaves the bloodstream and goes into the tissues.
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A newborn with this condition has too much bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin causes a yellowing of the baby's skin and tissues. This is called jaundice.
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Vomiting—especially during the first trimester—is normal for many women during pregnancy. Constantly vomiting is not. Take action to prevent a serious complication.
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Hyperthyroidism means that the thyroid gland is overactive, producing too much thyroid hormone. The excess hormone leads to an overactive metabolism.
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A baby with this condition has too little calcium in the blood. Hypocalcemia is more common in premature and low birthweight babies.
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Babies who are more likely to develop hypoglycemia include those born to women who have diabetes.
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Hypospadias is a disorder in newborn boys in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis.
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Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid is underactive—producing too little thyroid hormone.
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Hysteroscopy is the visual examination of the canal of the cervix and interior of the uterus using a thin, lighted, flexible tube called a hysteroscope.
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Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to see inside your uterus. This procedure can help find the causes of problems in the uterus.
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Almost every drug passes from the mother's bloodstream through the placenta to the fetus. Illicit substances that cause drug dependence and addiction in the mother also cause the fetus to become addicted.
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Detailed information on ineffective latch-on or sucking during breastfeeding
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A pregnant woman passes antibodies to her unborn baby through the placenta to protect against certain diseases. How long does this natural immunity last?
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Choosing how to feed your baby is an important decision that has life-long effects for your baby and for you.
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A baby born to a diabetic mother may need glucose orally or intravenously. The baby's blood glucose levels will be closely monitored after treatment.
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Hang brightly colored objects near your newborn. Sing and talk to your baby. Rock your baby, and take him or her for walks.
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Many different factors and problems can cause infertility, including problems in the female reproductive system, the male reproductive system, or a combination of the two.
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Age, chronic diseases, and endometriosis are common factors for women. For men, they are STDs, toxic substances at work, and cigarette smoking.
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As part of your preparation for your new baby, you probably got an infant safety seat for the car. But do you know how to make sure it’s installed properly? And when do you switch to a child safety seat? Learn the ins and outs of safe car travel for your little one.
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Detailed information on insufficient or delayed milk production
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Newborn babies with this condition often appear thin, pale, and have loose, dry skin. The umbilical cord is often thin and dull-looking rather than shiny and fat.
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Because most babies in the NICU are too small or sick to take milk feedings, medications and fluids are often given through their veins or arteries.
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If your baby is born prematurely, there are many worries that likely go through your mind. One of the things that can happen is bleeding on the brain. Read on to learn about this and what doctors can do help your baby.
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You’ve been breast-feeding your baby up until now—but it’s time to return to work. You haven’t given her a bottle with breast milk yet. When should you make the change? Here are tips to make a successful transition from breast to bottle.
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Ideally, you should breast-feed exclusively for the first six months, with a goal of continuing breast milk for at least the first year.
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Premature babies may grow at a slower rate than full-term babies, but usually catch up in height and weight by 2 years of age. But premature babies are more likely to have trouble with speech, motor skills, hearing or vision.
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Labor usually starts two weeks before or after the estimated date of delivery. No one knows exactly what triggers the onset of labor.
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During labor, you and your doctor may decide to turn to a laborist—an OB/GYN who works on site at the hospital and specializes in caring for women in labor.
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Laparoscopy is a procedure that utilizes a laparoscope, a thin flexible tube containing a video camera to examine the organs of the abdominal cavity.
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Laparoscopy can help detect and treat endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, or an ectopic pregnancy.
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The average baby weighs about 7 pounds at birth. About 10 percent of all babies weigh more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces. Rarely do babies weigh over 10 pounds.
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You’ve probably been warned not to eat brie cheese or order your steak cooked to anything less than medium. Why do you have to take these precautions? Listeriosis. Learn more about this food-borne illness and how to avoid it.
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If your baby’s birthweight was lower than normal due to premature birth or some other factor, don’t worry. With proper medical attention and your loving care, your baby will soon catch up with the other children in the nursery.
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Detailed information on breastfeeding and low breast milk production
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Problems with the production and maturation of sperm are the most common causes of male infertility.
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Hemorrhoids and varicose veins might seem to be two different, unrelated problems, but they are actually quite similar. And, they are a discomfort experienced by many women, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.
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Detailed information on breastfeeding and mastitis
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In pregnancy, infections are a common complication—but women may not have obvious symptoms, or they may show different symptoms of an infection.
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Women with high-risk pregnancies often need a close watch for potential problems or complications. Many tests and procedures are available to monitor the health of both mother and baby.
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Women who are breastfeeding should eat a well-balanced, varied diet and drink enough liquids.
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The length of time given for a paid maternity leave of absence varies among companies. Some women extend their maternity leaves by taking additional weeks of unpaid leave.
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Most physicians recommend taking a baby's temperature rectally, by placing a thermometer in the baby's anus. This method is accurate and gives a quick reading of the baby's internal temperature.
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Meconium aspiration occurs when a baby breathes in amniotic fluid containing meconium (the baby's first stools).
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With proper medical care, most women can enjoy a healthy pregnancy, despite medical challenges such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
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All medications you take affect the fetus, depending on the stage of development, the type and dosage of the medication being taken, and your drug tolerance.
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Many women experience migraine headaches while pregnant. The good news is that you don’t have to give in to the pain when it strikes. Know what pain-relief options are safest for you.
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You will have to remove milk from your breasts on a regular basis if you are to provide enough of your milk for your high-risk baby.
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Most mothers find they get more milk in less time when using a hospital-grade, electric breast pump with a double collection kit when providing milk for high-risk newborns.
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Ultrasound is usually used to diagnose miscarriage. If the fetus is no longer in the uterus, or there is no longer a fetal heartbeat, miscarriage is diagnosed.
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Detailed information on mismanaged breastfeeding, including information on breastfeeding positions
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As a new mom, your body is going through lots of changes—not just physically, but emotionally, too. If you can’t seem to shake the “baby blues,” there may be a bigger issue at hand than lack of sleep. Discover the warning signs that signal help is needed.
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It’s hard to think positive when you’re feeling sick and nauseous. But those common pregnancy symptoms can benefit your baby. Find out how, and what it takes to ease your symptoms.
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Learning to breastfeed effectively is a process that may take days or weeks for premature and many other high-risk babies. But you and your baby can become a breastfeeding team if you are patient and persistent.
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Today, more women than ever before are giving birth to multiples. What explains the increase in through the past decade? Take this quiz to find out.
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Pregnancy does not appear to speed up the course or worsen the effects of MS. Some studies have found that MS symptoms decrease in pregnancy and increase after delivery.
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Pregnant women with MG often have more weakness and fatigue because of the added weight and effort of pregnancy. Preterm labor (labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy) is more likely.
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Natal teeth are teeth that are present when the infant is born. They are usually the infant's primary teeth (or baby teeth) that have come in early.
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This condition appears to develop when the intestines are weakened by too little oxygen or blood. The weakened tissues can become severely damaged and die, which causes a hole in the intestinal wall.
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Neonatal abstinence syndrome is a term for a group of problems a baby experiences when withdrawing from exposure to narcotics.
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When it comes to parenting, back injury is an occupational hazard. New mothers, whose backs have just endured the stresses of pregnancy and birth, are particularly vulnerable. So are taller fathers and mothers who must bend farther than others to scoop up tots from playpens.
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A baby's skin coloring can vary greatly, depending on the baby's age, race or ethnic group, temperature, and whether or not the baby is crying. Skin color in babies often changes with both the environment and health.
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Your newborn is fragile and needs protection from the new world. One of the first steps you can take to protect your baby is to get her vaccinated. Learn about the first scheduled immunization—the hepatitis B vaccine—and how it keeps your baby safe from serious illness.
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Because some potential problems aren’t readily seen at birth, all newborns are tested for certain conditions, including metabolic disorders.
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Because many multiples are small and born early, they may be initially cared for in a special care nursery called the neonatal intensive care unit.
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Warning signs that may indicate a possible problem in your newborn include no urine in the first 24 hours at home; a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher; or a rapid breathing rate.
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Crying is the way babies communicate. They cry because of hunger, discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and even loneliness.
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Ever wonder why your baby flings his arms out sideways when startled? This reaction—called the Moro reflex—is one of many natural reflexes your newborn should exhibit. Read on to learn about common newborn reflexes and what they mean.
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Babies are born with the ability to focus only at close range—about eight to 10 inches, or the distance between a mother's face to the baby in her arms.
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You’ve spent nine months doing everything to ensure your baby arrives healthy. Now that your baby is here, you have another important decision to make: Finding pediatrician that is right for you and your baby.
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Detailed information on nonstress testing
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When your baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit, your main concern is getting her healthy and home. Taking food by the mouth and gaining weight are two important steps toward that goal. Find out what happens to help your baby get there, including the role you play.
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You need about 300 extra calories a day to maintain a healthy pregnancy. These calories should come from a balanced diet of protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Not only is eating nutritious food good for you and your baby, it also can ease some of the discomforts of pregnancy. A balanced diet can help minimize symptoms such as nausea and constipation.
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The fact is that most women in their 30s and 40s have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. To ensure a healthy pregnancy, you should do what any woman should do: Prepare for your baby with healthy lifestyle choices. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and learn what you can do to prevent potential problems.
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An infant with an omphalocele has a portion of the abdominal organs protruding through an opening in the muscles near the umbilical cord.
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List of online resources to find additional information on respiratory disorders
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Many nursing mothers worry if their babies aren’t getting enough milk—but what if the opposite were true? Here’s what you can do to make sure your aren’t overwhelming your baby during feeding time.
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A "birth defect" is a health problem or physical change that is present in a baby at the time he/she is born.
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Human blood consists of about 22 percent solids and 78 percent water. The components of blood are plasma, fat globules, chemicals, and gases.
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Multiple pregnancy is a pregnancy with two or more fetuses. In the United States, the multiple birth rate is rising.
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Pregnancy loss occurs in more than half of early pregnancies. Most of these occur so early that the mother does not even know she is pregnant.
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When a person is attempting to have a baby, fertile times become an important factor. Using information about your cycles will help to predict your more fertile times and when you will ovulate.
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In most cases, you can be with your baby in the NICU at any time. The staff of the NICU will give you instructions on special handwashing techniques before entering the area.
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few mothers- and fathers-to-be receive training for the much more challenging and long-term tasks: becoming good parents and remaining close and loving partners in the face of new stresses and strains as their family grows.
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PDA is a heart problem in which the connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery remains open after birth, instead of closing as it should.
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Untreated, PID can cause infertility and can also lead to chronic infection or even peritonitis.
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Ultrasound, or sound wave technology, is used to examine the organs and structures in the female pelvis.
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A pelvic ultrasound allows a doctor to quickly see the female pelvic organs and structures, including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
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The head is one of the most fragile parts on your baby, especially after birth. Sometimes, damage can occur, particularly if your baby is born prematurely. One type of brain damage is called periventricular leukomalacia. Read on to better understand what this diagnosis means for you and your baby, and what doctors can do to help.
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In this condition, a newborn's circulation changes back to the circulation of a fetus, where much of the blood flow bypasses the lungs.
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Planning ahead and taking care of yourself before becoming pregnant is the best thing you can do for you and your baby.
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For mothers who breastfeed, some may be more susceptible to plugged ducts than others. Get some quick tips on how to avoid and manage this concern, so you can keep you and your baby happy and healthy!
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Pneumothorax is a lung disorder in which air in the lungs leaks out through holes in the lung tissue into the spaces outside the lung airways.
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This syndrome results from several related factors, including insulin resistance. This can lead to obesity and type 2 diabetes and affect fertility.
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Mild polycythemia may not cause problems, but too many red blood cells can increase the blood volume or thicken the blood, making it harder to circulate through the blood system and to the organs.
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The most common symptoms of postmaturity in a baby are dry, peeling skin; overgrown nails; and abundant scalp hair.
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Having a baby is a life-changing event, so it’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. However, if your spirits are down despite your new bundle of joy, it may be a sign of postpartum depression. Take our online assessment to help determine your risk.
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Postpartum hemorrhage is excessive bleeding after the birth of a baby. Most postpartum hemorrhage occurs right after delivery, but it can occur later as well.
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Postpartum thyroiditis is a temporary but fairly common condition that results in either an overactive or underactive thyroid.
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A pregnancy that lasts more than 42 weeks is considered post-term. Post-term pregnancy is associated with longer labors and the need for cesarean delivery.
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Chances are good that you’re one of more than three-fourths of pregnant women who experience the churning and burning of heartburn or acid indigestion. It typically hits somewhere in the second or third trimester, and it can be miserable.
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Much back pain in pregnancy is related to the strain on your back from the weight of your growing baby. Using proper posture can help prevent and even relieve some of the pain.
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For many women, pregnancy brings glowing skin, rosy cheeks, and shiny hair. But others can experience skin changes that aren’t so attractive, including acne, dark spots, and stretch marks.
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Do you know how your nervous system works? This system coordinates all your body’s activities, and chances are it’s functioning normally during your pregnancy. In the rare case that it’s not, here’s what you need to know.
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Many women today are waiting until later in life to have children. In the United States, birth rates for women in their 30s are at the highest levels in three decades.
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Some pregnancy changes are caused by hormones. Others are caused by the pressure and weigh of your growing baby.
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If you're pregnant, it's just as important for you to stay away from lead as it is to protect your children from it.
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Rupture of the membranes near the end of pregnancy may be caused by a natural weakening of the membranes or from the force of contractions.
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Other terms often used for prematurity are preterm and "preemie." Many premature babies also weigh less than 5.5 pounds and may be referred to as low birthweight.
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It may seem like you are having a lot of appointments, but regular visits to your doctor are an important part of a healthy pregnancy. You and your growing baby will be carefully monitored, with tests done to assess any potential risks and develop a treatment plan, if needed.
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Most families soon find ways to adjust to the changes that take place after a baby is born. But it is helpful to prepare some family members for what is ahead.
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Preterm birth is the greatest problem associated with preterm labor. Although most babies are born after 37 weeks, those born preterm are at increased risks for many complications.
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While being a new Mom brings lots of joy, it also brings stress—something a crying baby can make worse. Better understanding why your baby cries can help you deal with this stress in a healthy way and help you avoid the most common form of child abuse: Shaken baby syndrome.
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NICUs are equipped with complex machines and devices to monitor nearly every system of a baby's body—temperature, heart rate, breathing, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, and blood pressure.
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Pyloric stenosis is a problem that affects babies between 2 and 8 weeks of age and causes forceful vomiting that can lead to dehydration.
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Domestic violence is behavior someone uses to control a spouse, partner, date or elderly relative through fear and intimidation.
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RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis—inflammation of the lower airways—and pneumonia in babies.
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A premature baby comes with many special concerns, and eye health is an important one. Some premature babies develop retinopathy of prematurity, or abnormal blood vessel development in the retina of the eye. Learn about this complication and find out why screenings are so important.
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Rh disease occurs during pregnancy when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and baby.
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Cradle cap can occur on the scalp, diaper area, face, neck, and trunk. Symptoms include dry or greasy scales.
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Screening is usually performed by taking a sample of the mother's blood between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy (16th to 18th is ideal).
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Sepsis is a term for severe infection that spreads throughout the body. Sepsis in a newborn is more likely to develop when the mother has had pregnancy complications that increase the likelihood of infection.
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In most cases, sex during pregnancy is safe. In fact, with your doctor's approval, sexual relations can continue until delivery.
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Women suffer more frequent and severe symptoms from STDs. Some STDs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to both infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
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Sickle cell disease involves the red blood cells, or hemoglobin, and their ability to carry oxygen.
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The signs of pregnancy vary from woman to woman, but the most obvious sign usually is a missed period.
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The color of a baby's skin can often help identify possible problems in another area of the body. It is important for you to call your doctor if certain skin color changes occur.
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Are you concerned that your little one has slow or poor weight gain? Unsure? This article will help you sort out your questions and concerns.
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Although some babies are small because of genetics (their parents are small), most SGA babies are small because of fetal growth problems that occur during pregnancy.
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Don't smoke during your pregnancy and limit how much time you spend in environments where there is secondhand smoke.
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Do you know the health risks of smoking? Avoiding them can help you have a healthy pregnancy and baby.
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Detailed information on breastfeeding and sore nipples
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Bringing a new life into this world is a big responsibility. Even seemingly simple things—like soaking in a hot tub or being around people who are painting—could affect your baby.
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Premature babies especially need a supportive environment to help them continue to mature and develop as they would in their mother's womb.
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Spina bifida can occur in the early weeks of pregnancy, before you even know you are expecting. That’s why your baby is depending on you to have healthy habits in place from the start. Learn more about the prevention and treatment of this birth defect.
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Stillbirth is a common term for death of a baby while still in the uterus. Common causes are high blood pressure or infection in the mother, or placental or cord problems.
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Glass or hard plastic containers are the best storage containers for human milk, especially if it is to be frozen and stored for weeks or months.
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SIDS stands for sudden infant death syndrome. It is a leading cause of infant death in the U.S. The causes of SIDS are unknown, but researchers have learned more about factors that can put your baby at risk. Learn which ones parents can prevent.
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Every pregnant woman feels like she’s getting big, but if you’re pregnant with two or more babies, you’ll really be growing fast. Be prepared by learning the signs of a multiple birth.
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Lupus is a disease characterized by periodic episodes of inflammation of and damage to the joints, tendons, other connective tissues, and organs.
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Moms who bottle feed their babies are always worried about keeping the bottles and nipples clean and sterilized at all times. Likewise, if you’re a breastfeeding mom you have to be concerned with keeping your breast pump and all its parts clean to keep your baby safe from breast milk contamination.
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Your baby is finally ready to come home. Turn your nervous energy into positive action. Make a checklist for what you and she needs before leaving the hospital so that you can create a safe home environment. Here’s a list of items to get you started.
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It’s important that babies in intensive care undergo regular testing so they get the important care they need. Here are common seven lab tests used in the newborn intensive care unit. Make sure to ask your baby’s doctor about them.
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Use the oldest milk first, and thaw it by placing the collection container in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
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Premature babies who receive their own mothers' milk develop better eye function. They, and other high-risk babies fed mothers' milk, usually perform better on different kinds of intelligence tests as they grow older.
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A person can have normal chromosomes in number and structure, but still have a disease or condition caused by a mutation in one or more of the genes on the chromosomes.
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A healthy first trimester is crucial to the normal development of your baby. You may not be showing much on the outside, but inside, all the major body organs and systems of the fetus are forming.
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In the first month of life, babies usually catch up and surpass their birthweight, then steadily continue to gain weight.
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A woman is generally most fertile (able to become pregnant) a few days before, during, and after ovulation.
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NICUs provide specialized care for the tiniest patients. NICUs may also have intermediate or continuing care areas for babies who are not as sick but do need specialized nursing care.
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You will need plenty of rest, good nutrition, and help during the first few weeks after your baby is born.
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By about 35 weeks gestation, most babies have developed adequate amounts of surfactant, a substance normally released into the lung tissues to lower surface tension in the airways. This helps keep the air sacs in the lung open.
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During this trimester, the weight of your growing baby will multiply more than seven times—and you will start showing more.
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The third trimester marks the home stretch for your pregnancy. You may feel more uncomfortable now as you continue to gain weight. You also may have false labor contractions (called Braxton-Hicks contractions).
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Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which a baby has too few platelets—the blood cells needed for clotting.
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Candidiasis is an infection caused by yeast on the skin and mucous membranes. When the infection occurs in the mouth, it is called thrush.
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Today’s society is increasingly mobile, and the demands of career and family often require travel during a woman’s pregnancy. Here are some tips and guidance for safe travels while you’re pregnant.
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Slings are a popular, natural way to carry your baby, but recent government warnings showed these slings can also be dangerous. Learn how to carry your baby safely.
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Toxoplasmosis is not only harmful to moms-to-be, but also to their unborn babies. If you haven’t heard of toxoplasmosis, you’ll definitely want to brush up on this new word.
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Transient tachypnea of the newborn is a term for a mild respiratory problem of babies that begins after birth and lasts about three days.
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Trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 are genetic disorders that present a combination of birth defects including severe mental retardation, as well as health problems involving nearly every organ system in the body.
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Tubal ligation is surgical procedure you may choose if you are an adult woman and you do not want to get pregnant in the future. You may have heard tubal ligation referred to as "getting your tubes tied."
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Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder seen in girls that causes them to be shorter than others and to not mature sexually as they grow into adulthood.
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Genetic diseases are classified by type: chromosomal abnormalities, single gene defects, problems caused by exposure to certain substances, or a combination of these.
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In a few weeks, your baby will have the cutest little belly button. But right now the healing remains of his umbilical cord need special care. Here’s how to make sure it stays infection-free.
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During pregnancy, the kidney enlarges and the bladder is compressed by the growing uterus. These and other factors make it more likely for a woman to develop a urinary tract infection.
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A breast pump is an important piece of equipment for the breastfeeding mom who wants to increase her supply or store pumped breast milk. While it seems like a simple thing to sit down and pump out milk, there are things you can do to make pumping more effective.
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Some estimates say that 20 to 50 percent of women of reproductive age have fibroids, although not all are diagnosed. In most cases, fibroids are benign.
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Very low birthweight is a term used to describe babies who are born weighing less than 3 pounds, 4 ounces. Only a few babies are born this tiny.
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Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn is a bleeding problem that occurs during the first few days of life.
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Premature and low birthweight babies may be too immature to regulate their own temperature, even in a warm environment. Even full-term and healthy newborns may not be able to maintain their body temperature if the environment is too cold.
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Call your health care provider immediately if you have bleeding from the vagina, blurry vision, severe headaches, or other specific symptoms.
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Average weight gain for women is between 25 and 35 pounds, although slight deviations from this may also be considered normal.
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More than ever, men are actively involved throughout the pregnancy experience. The term expectant father really fits, as men support, worry, and plan right along with their pregnant partners. Some of the more common experiences for expectant dads are included here.
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Babies who may have difficulty at birth are those born prematurely, those who experienced a difficult delivery, maternal illness, or those with birth defects.
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A family history of certain diseases or disorders or certain factors affecting the pregnancy itself may be reasons to visit a genetic counselor.
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Most women are able to work safely, in some cases, until the day of delivery, depending on the type of work performed and their condition.
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Discuss your plan to continue to breastfeed, and your need to pump/express breast milk during the workday, with your employer when you are pregnant or before you return to work.
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