Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
Your doctor may order an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) when he or she suspects you have diabetes. And, most pregnant women will have to take an OGTT to check for gestational diabetes (diabetes that occurs during pregnancy). This test can help diagnose diabetes and gestational diabetes. It can also tell if you have pre-diabetes. [...]
Preventing and Treating Diaper Rash or Diaper Dermatitis in Baby
It may as well be a rite of infant passage. Few babies will escape the scourge of diaper dermatitis, better known as diaper rash. Diaper rash is caused by extended contact with a wet or soiled diaper. The skin gets irritated by moisture from the urine or stool, or chafing from the diaper. The result [...]
What Is Infertility?
It seems like everyone\’s doing it – having babies, that is. From young moms at the mall to 40-something celebrities, some women make it seem like the easiest thing in the world. But for some, getting pregnant is anything but easy. In the U.S., about one in 10 couples ends up seeking treatment for infertility. [...]
Decision Focus: In Vitro Fertilization for Infertility
For most couples, the road to in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a long and painful one. By the time they reach this point, they have been through a number of failed treatments. They are often worn down from months or years of effort and yet hopeful that this treatment could make their dream of a [...]
Child\’s Play: The Key to Your Baby\’s Development
Playtime. Every child needs and deserves it. In fact, according to the United Nations Commission for Human Rights, play isn\’t just important; it\’s a right of every child. Why so much emphasis on play? Because it benefits the physical, social and emotional growth of a child. "Play" doesn\’t just refer to using a toy. It [...]
Swine Flu: Taking Care When You\’re Pregnant
The swine (H1N1) flu promises to be on top of our minds again this flu season. Moms-to-be may be especially on edge and feeling vulnerable. Learn how to help protect yourself and your unborn baby from swine flu. Pregnancy and swine flu Any type of flu can be risky during pregnancy. Experts say swine flu can cause [...]
How to Cope When You\’re Prescribed Bed Rest
A prescription to lie in bed may seem like a dream come true. But bed rest during pregnancy can be anything but relaxing. Evenings out with friends, grocery shopping and cooking may be put on hold until your baby is born. What is bed rest? Bed rest is sometimes prescribed during pregnancy. It may be [...]
Symptom Watch: 12 Pregnancy Red Flags You Shouldn\’t Ignore
Most women can expect to have a healthy pregnancy. But knowing that might not stop you from fretting about every twinge and discomfort you have. While most symptoms are usually nothing to worry about, some signal a problem that needs attention. "Red flags" are symptoms that may signal a problem with you or your unborn [...]
Pros and Cons of Having a Baby
It may be the most critical decision you\’ll ever make. Unlike buying a house or accepting a job, having a child is a lifelong commitment. Once you become a parent, it\’s your duty to care for that child – at least for the next 18 years. And the decision will have a profound effect on [...]
What to Expect When You\’re Pregnant With Twins
You knew having a baby would be a lot of work. Now, you find out you\’re pregnant with twins. The extra work doesn\’t just start after your babies are born. Your body works extra hard during pregnancy too so that both unborn babies thrive. Although a twin pregnancy is not that much different than pregnancy [...]