Breastfeeding in the US: Effects of Early Experiences on Postpartum Depression
August 15th 2011Data increasingly point to the benefits of breastfeeding, both for the infant and for the mother. Now, a new study points to the relationship between postpartum depression and negative early breastfeeding experiences, just as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sheds light on the lack of breastfeeding support for women in hospitals.
Success of vaginal birth after cesarean delivery depends on multiple variables
August 11th 2011A variety of clinical and nonclinical variables--including induction of labor, use of cervical ripening agents, private health insurance, and local practice guidelines--influence whether women who have had a cesarean delivery go on to delivery vaginally in subsequent pregnancies. Who has successful VBAC? Click here to learn more.
Breastfeeding support lacking at hospitals, CDC says
August 11th 2011Fewer than 4% of United States hospitals offer the full range of support mothers need to breastfeed successfully, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For CDC's list of steps that hospitals can take to strengthen breastfeeding support, click here.
OC-related drop in bone density varies with age, hormone dose
August 11th 2011OC-related drop in bone density varies with age, hormone dose Oral contraceptives (OCs) may decrease bone density, but the effect, which is small and appears only after about 2 years of use, depends on the age of the user and the hormone dose in the pill, a new study reports. Click here to read more about the long-term health impacts of OC use in young women.
Long-acting contraception linked to fewer repeat abortions
August 11th 2011Women who use long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), especially intrauterine devices (IUDs), are significantly less likely have a repeat abortion, New Zealand researchers report. Read the researchers' findings on contraception use in women who have had abortions.