2012-2013 Flu Season Hits Hard

In health news, the 2012-2013 flu season is shaping up to be a rough one. The Detroit Free Press reports that yet another child has died in southwest Michigan from flu-related illness, bringing the number to three this year. Two adults have died from similar flu illnesses, and the number of cases in Michigan continues to rise. Despite this, I still urge caution when considering whether to get the flu shot or not. For all the hype about it, remember that it only protects against three strains and which ones will be virulent each year is hard to predict. Also, once vaccinated, you pretty much have to be vaccinated every year thereafter (that's from health care providers). Lastly, the best offense is a good defense. Eating healthy, taking care of yourself and your kids, keeping sick ones away from others, washing hands and covering your mouth--those are worth more than any vaccine. Michigan 2012-2013 Flu Shot Options

Study Showing Breastfeeding Benefits Should Encourage Moms

A study in the journal Pediatrics comparing development in breastfed infants to those fed with milk-based or soy formula shows exciting results on the advantages of breastfeeding for the first year of life. It underscores that breastfed babies truly are the best fed. Study Showing Breastfeeding Benefits Should Encourage Moms 

Infant Low Birth Weight Findings Show Need for Parenting Classes

There is good news coming from a study published in the journal Pediatrics about very low birth weight infants. From 2000-2009, 1.9 percent fewer v ery low birth weight infants (weighing less than 1,500 grams at birth) died. However, there was another very depressing statistic. Though VLBW infants account for only 1.5 percent of the newborn population, they represent 50 percent of infant deaths in the U.S. Read more at
 Infant Low Birth Weight Findings Show Need for Parenting Classes 

Pregnant Women Should Heed Listeria Recalls, Warnings

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced that Alfa Sprouts Inc. (Springwater Sprouts) is recalling alfalfa sprouts and clover sprouts because they may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes. Sprouts were packaged in 4-ounce plastic "clamshell" containers with an April 28 sell-by date and sold in New York State. Some were sold in bulk, too. The FDA warns that listeria is particularly dangerous for a developing fetus. I urge pregnant women to heed any listeria warnings and product recalls.  Pregnant Women Should Heed Listeria Recalls, Warnings 

Breastfeeding Moms Have Fewer Blood Pressure Problems, Study Shows

Breastfeeding Moms Have Fewer Blood Pressure Problems, Study Shows Moms who breastfeed their babies have been found to have lower incidence of high blood pressure problems, says a study of nurses. Lower risk of hypertension isn't the only advantage to moms, either. Health care experts urge parents to consider nursing benefits for children. Here are facts about breastfeeding and how it helps mother and baby. Read more...

Fisher Price Product Recall: Trikes, High Chairs, Inflatable Toys, Little People Rampway

Mattel Fisher Price Toy Recalls: Trikes, High Chairs, Inflatable Balls, Little People Wheelies
Fisher-Price, a toddler and preschool division of toy mogul Mattel recalls a record four toy lines on September 30, 2010. Recalled are: Baby Playzone, Healthy Care, Easy Clean, Close to Me highchairs, trikes and Little Peoples Stand 'n' Play Rampway.
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Natural Candida and Yeast Infection Home Remedies: Acidophilus

Natural Healthy Drug-Free Yeast Infection and Candida Treatments
Candida is the generic medical term for yeast infections. When yeasts, or fungi levels in the body are out of balance, it causes itching, rash and discomfort. Vaginal yeast infection and infant thrush can be treated in healthy, natural ways.
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What to Do if You Are Pregnant and Your Water Breaks Early

What to Do If You Are Pregnant and Your Water Breaks Early
I don't talk about this much because it still hurts. But if you experience this don't know what to do, this may help. What should you do if you are pregnant and you leak fluid or your 'water breaks' too early?
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Hospital Mixes Up Babies: A Case for Mother-Infant Bonding

Williston, ND Hospital Sends Wrong Baby Home with Couple
Your bundle of joy has arrived and you take her home. But what happens if the hospital sends you home with someone else's bundle of joy? Williston, ND hospital officials are facing that very problem. The solution: immediate mother-infant bonding after birth.
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Pre-Natal Care and Yoga Exercise and Breathing

Prenatal Care: Yoga Exercises, Safe Stretching and Deep Breathing
The best form of exercise in pregnancy is gentle stretching and yoga. Yoga is holistic and balanced. Yoga exercises embrace the whole person. What better prenatal exercise than yoga which encompasses mother and baby as one?
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Congenital Hip Dysplasia: Developmental Issues in Infants

What You Need to Know About Congenital Hip Dysplasia
I was diagnosed with Congenital Hip Dysplasia (CDH) as an infant. Congenital Hip Dysplasia is a condition in which the infant's hip is dislocated. We now call CDH 'Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH). Read on for DDH help.
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Amniocentesis: Genetic Testing, Ethics and Health Hazard

Amniocentesis: Genetic Testing
In amniocentesis a large needle is inserted into the amniotic sac. Amniotic fluid is drawn out and analyzed for genetic abnormalities. Amniocentesis can be very dangerous to the fetus. This is my experience with amniocentesis.
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How to Soothe a Fussy Baby

Fussy babies can seem impossible to soothe. If you have an infant that is difficult to calm, try this guide to infant care. Read on...

Miscarriage and Still-Born Infant: Health Issues for Mom

Stillborn Infant: The Long-Term Physical Effects
I have lost two infants that were almost to the age of viability. This article covers many of the long-term effects of stillborn infant upon the mother, physically.
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100 Reasons to Breastfeed Your Children

Breast-Feeding Infants: 100-Plus Reasons and Benefits to Nursing Babies
Nursing babies is the primary way to sustain life and give joy. Here are more than 100 reasons to nurse a baby.
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Understanding Ear Infections

Swimmer's Ear: What is It? How Do I Treat It? How Do I Prevent It?
Swimmer's Ear is a common summer complaint. This guide will help you to care for Swimmer's Ear.
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Infant Ear Infections
A guide to understand infant ear infections.
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Fussy Infant: Soothing the Crying Baby

Raise your hand if remember the 3am crying fits of a newborn baby? Or if you have you ever tried to soothe a fussy, tired or sickly baby? It can be pure torture, if you can't figure out what is wrong. There is no more helpless feeling than being unable to calm the crying infant. You feel worried, upset and emotionally drained. Chances are you are exhausted yourself. Most of us want to cry ourselves. Don't despair; here's my very best first aid guide to helping an upset baby relax and rest. And these tips aren't just for infants; they will work with toddlers and most all children.
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