Baby Corner

Letting Go of the Perfect Mother Myth

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:35:03 GMT

Motherhood has its own romance and myth, represented in film, literature and in communities of women. We buy into it because so few people will blurt out uncomfortable truths such as, "After 18 hours of labor the only thing I was in love with was pain relievers." Or "I felt like I had given birth to an alien. She didn't look anything like I expected." On TV women coo and admire their newborns with a non-sweaty radiance while their adoring husband beams. New moms are represented as often tired and overwhelmed, but no one ever says just how overwhelming it can be, or scary.

Midwife or Ob-Gyn: Which is Best Choice for You?

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:19:27 GMT

Today's expectant mothers have more choices when it comes to prenatal care and childbirth. One of the biggest choices is deciding on a health care provider for your pregnancy and delivery.

9 Clues - Allergies or the Common Cold?

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:59:50 GMT

Does your child constantly sniffle, cough, or sneeze? Does it seem like your baby's nose runs all the time? It can be difficult to tell if your little one is suffering from a cold that will soon go away or from allergies, especially if your baby is very young. If you or your pediatrician suspects your child has allergies, tests can be performed to find out what's causing the reaction so that steps can be taken to improve your child's health. Below are some signs and symptoms that could mean your child has allergies, and not just a cold. If you're not sure, or if your baby's symptoms worsen or don't improve quickly, the best course of action is always to consult your health care professional.

Dealing with Gender Disappointment

Tue, 22 May 2012 02:02:34 GMT

When an expectant parent is asked if she hopes for a boy or a girl, most of the time, she will simply say it doesn't matter--as long as the baby is healthy. And for the most part, that's true. But secretly, many moms-to-be hope for a baby of one gender or the other. After all, what new mom hasn't fantasized--at least a little--about tea parties, baby dolls, and tiny, ruffled dresses? What dad hasn't hoped, perhaps privately, for a little leaguer with whom to play catch? If you already have one or more children of the same gender, your secret wish may not be so secret--others may assume they already know your preference for this next baby.

5 Tips to De-clutter Your Playroom

Sun, 20 May 2012 08:50:11 GMT

It's amazing the way toys seem to multiply, perhaps even breed, once home in your child's playroom. If you live in a smaller home, you may think the toys have actually taken over. One of the most important things to keep this from happening is to be vigilant.

Losing Weight Before Trying to Conceive

Sat, 19 May 2012 04:05:05 GMT

There are a lot of good reasons to be a healthy weight for your height and body size before becoming pregnant. And unless your health care provider instructs you differently, you already know you should not try to lose weight after you become pregnant. So is it okay to try to lose weight immediately before trying to conceive?

Pregnancy Questions to Ask Your Ob-Gyn

Tue, 15 May 2012 01:28:27 GMT

We've all been there; you are ready to ask a laundry list of questions, but as soon as the doctor knocks at the exam door, your mind goes blank. Call it white-coat amnesia, pregnancy fog or simple fatigue, but it can be challenging to remember all the things you intend to ask.

Is Caffeine Safe During Pregnancy?

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:41:19 GMT

You're pregnant! Such exciting news! Now comes the hard part, if you're a smoker or you enjoy an occasional mixed drink or glass of wine. You know cigarettes and alcohol are unhealthy for your baby, so of course, you'll give them up. But what about caffeine? How will you cope without that morning cup of coffee to jumpstart your day?

Health Conditions That Affect Fertility

Mon, 14 May 2012 10:20:51 GMT

Trying to conceive when you have a health condition can be challenging. Certain conditions can make it more difficult or can cause issues during the pregnancy. Your health care provider can supply you with important information about controlling your condition and increasing your chances of getting pregnant, but here's a quick guide to some conditions that may make conceiving a little tricky.

New Baby With A Small Home? Strategies to Make it Work

Thu, 10 May 2012 12:34:41 GMT

While you may have imagined the picket fence around that perfect family house complete with an oversized nursery, reality may be a bit off. Or perhaps far off. Many families live in tight quarters, especially young ones that are still struggling to stretch paychecks into rent each month. The current economic situation dictates that many families have to delay their dreams a bit longer than planned.