In the News October 1, 2007

News of interest for mommies-come-lately:


Depression Common Before, During and After Pregnancy

A study involving 4,300 women found that 1 in 7 were depressed before, during or after childbirth. The study, published in the October issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry, included these statistics:

• during the nine months before pregnancy, 8.7% of the women were diagnosed with depression
• 6.7% of the women were treated for depression during their pregnancies
• 10.4% of the women experienced postpartum depression

Mercury-Containing Vaccine Vindicated

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine concludes early exposure to thimerosal does not cause any neurological problems. There have been claims the additive causes autism and other brain development disorders in children. However, other studies found thimerosal causes no long-term negative effects on children's health.

Woman Delivers 17-Pound Baby

A 42-year-old woman delivered her 12th child, a daughter weighing 17.05 pounds. The baby was delivered via Caeserean section.

U.S. Approves Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine for Young Children

The Food and Drug Administration approved Flumist, a nasal spray flu vaccine, for children ages 2-5.

Some Drugs Carry High Fetal Risk

According to a recent medical study, women of childbearing age may unknowingly take medication that could cause birth defects. The study suggests doctors be more diligent in counseling their patients on possible effects of medications.

Crib Bumpers Can Do More Harm Than Good

Soft crib bumpers can strangle or suffocate infants, according to a study in the Journal of Pediatrics.