Reproductive Health
Even a completely healthy couple can't expect to get pregnant at the drop of a hat. Only 20 percent of women who want to conceive become pregnant in the first ovulation cycle they try. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child despite trying for one year. The condition affects about 5.3 million Americans, or 9 percent of the reproductive age population. Here are some of your questions answered.More >>
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Whooping cough cases are escalating in the United States, and many American adults are unknowingly exposing vulnerable babies to the potentially deadly disease because their vaccinations are not up to date.More >> Whooping cough cases are escalating in the United States, and many American adults are unknowingly exposing vulnerable babies to the potentially deadly disease because their vaccinations are not up to date.More >> Addie Parker was a happy 4-year-old who appeared to have the flu. But within hours she was in a coma.More >> Addie Parker was a happy 4-year-old who appeared to have the flu. But within hours she was in a coma.More >> Two new studies offer some solace to those who can't control their weight despite diet and exercise by providing more evidence that genetics may play a role in obesity.More >> Two new studies offer some solace to those who can't control their weight despite diet and exercise by providing more evidence that genetics may play a role in obesity.More >> Catching up on your sleep on weekends may help protect you from developing diabetes, a small, early study suggests.More >> Catching up on your sleep on weekends may help protect you from developing diabetes, a small, early study suggests.More >> Adding an organ donation option to the average Facebook user's profile prompted a dramatic rise in potential donors, researchers report.More >> Adding an organ donation option to the average Facebook user's profile prompted a dramatic rise in potential donors, researchers report.More >>
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Whooping cough cases are escalating in the United States, and many American adults are unknowingly exposing vulnerable babies to the potentially deadly disease because their vaccinations are not up to date.More >> Whooping cough cases are escalating in the United States, and many American adults are unknowingly exposing vulnerable babies to the potentially deadly disease because their vaccinations are not up to date.More >> Plenty of Americans are eager to use their mobile phones and tablet computers to better manage their health care, a new poll finds -- though the nation has a way to go before we're all consulting Dr. Smartphone.More >> Plenty of Americans are eager to use their mobile phones and tablet computers to better manage their health care, a new poll finds -- though the nation has a way to go before we're all consulting Dr. Smartphone.More >> Being picked on by your brother or sister may seem like a normal part of growing up, but for some kids the bullying may be a source of depression and anxiety, a new study suggests.More >> Being picked on by your brother or sister may seem like a normal part of growing up, but for some kids the bullying may be a source of depression and anxiety, a new study suggests.More >> For dads aiming at marital bliss, a new study suggests just two factors are especially important: being engaged with the kids, for sure -- but also doing a fair share of the household chores.More >> For dads aiming at marital bliss, a new study suggests just two factors are especially important: being engaged with the kids, for sure -- but also doing a fair share of the household chores.More >> Anyone who has ever been a volunteer knows that it feels good to help others, but researchers have found a less obvious benefit: volunteering can help reduce older adults' risk of high blood pressure.More >> Anyone who has ever been a volunteer knows that it feels good to help others, but researchers have found a less obvious benefit: volunteering can help reduce older adults' risk of high blood pressure.More >>
Your baby is on the way, and there is so much to do. You will need baby furniture and clothing for your new son or daughter. Check to make sure that everything is safe - no loose ends, sharp edges or small harmful parts.
One decision you should make is whether you want to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby . There are pros and cons to both of these options, however most doctors believe that breastfeeding is the best and healthiest choice for your baby.
Health care is also something to consider before the arrival of your new baby. Because babies need check-ups and sometimes get sick, you will want to choose a physician to care for your child (pediatrician). You might want to call and request an interview with a few pediatricians; this is commonly done.
Just like you, your baby will need health coverage. If you think you can't afford it, there are programs available to children who would otherwise have no health insurance. Decide on health care and insurance before your child's birth to save a lot of time and ensure that a health care provider will be there when you need them.
For more information:
- Thinking about pregnancy?
- Preparing for delivery
- After the arrival of your baby