Newborn Screening Tests

I had recently written a blog about some parents who had refused (or tried to delay) their baby’s newborn screening tests on the basis of religious beliefs. I thought it would be appropriate to take some time to talk about what exactly newborn screening tests screen for. Newborn screening is the practice of testing every newborn infant for certain disorders some of which, if left untreated, could lead to mental retardation. Most of these disorders are known as metabolic disorders that prohibit or interfere with the way the body uses nutrients. Newborn screening tests also screen for disorders that have … Continue reading

The Baby Blog Week in Review for Jan. 27 to Feb. 2

Good evening! I am writing this week’s baby blog in review. Heather has taken some time off today to spend with her daughter. If you want to see what’s going on new in Heather’s life, you can check out one of her recent blogs. If you missed something in the baby blog this week, check it out here to catch up! Saturday, January 27 In, As a Parent. . .I Have Arrived, I talk about how the newborn stage seems so difficult. But then it passes so quickly. If you need a little perspective, this is a great place to … Continue reading

New Moms Are at Risk for More than PPD

One of the largest studies ever conducted on postpartum mental illness has found that first time moms are at a much greater risk for a variety of mental illnesses during the first three months after giving birth. Not just post partum depression but other more serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. The Study Danish researchers looked at the records of one million women over a course of 32 years from the time their child was born. According to their data, new, first time mothers are seven times more likely to be admitted to a mental hospital for … Continue reading