Every couple experiencing a multiple gestation needs to be aware of the condition known as Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). This is a disease of the placenta which occurs in identical twin pregnancies, but may also affect higher order multiples (Triplets, Quads, etc.) if there are identicals present within it. It does not occur in Fraternal Twins. However, unless you know the twins are boy/girl, it would be best to assume they are identical and monitor for TTTS unless it is proven otherwise before delivery. While considered rare, this is a highly lethal condition which affects up to 6000 documented cases a year, and without treatment may be 80-100% likely to result in the death or major disability of one or both twins. Treatments that are currently available can increase the odds of survival for both twins to as much as 60-70%, but are useless if the condition goes undiagnosed. More...

WASHINGTON (AP) - Breast-fed infants may have up to a 30 percent lower risk of developing some forms of childhood leukemia when compared to babies who are bottle-fed, according to a new study. More...

In addition to being aware of any standing water in or around your home, making sure your children do not have access to your washing machine is vital. A child can drown if he or she falls into a washing machine. Please read "An Open Letter From Amber's Parents" and make sure that your children can not open or access your washing machine especially when it is in use.

Your baby moves many times a day. Your baby?s kicks are the best sign of its health. We ask that you count the number of times your baby moves once a day. The baby may kick or roll during the time you are counting count all movements. You will know when your baby is most active and at what time of day.

YOU NEED TO:

1. Pick one quiet time in your day, when you can count how many times the baby moves. Some babies move most in the evening.
2. You may want to sit with your feet up or lie on your side.
3. Count all baby movements until you reach 10. DO NOT count for more than 2 hours.
4. Write own the time it took for the baby to move 10 times. Example: SUNDAY = 45 min.
5. If your baby does not move at least 10 times in the two hours, you must call your obstetric provider.

"The Safe Nursery" - Information and Safety Advice from the CPSC

Wear your baby! Research has shown that Dr. William Sears' method of AP helps babies develop physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Baby wearing reduces infant stress and relieves colicky baby tears. This method of attachment parenting helps the baby's development, thriving, and interdependence.
- Baby Wearing Info: http://www.askdrsears.com/html/5/t051100.asp#T051103
- Benefits of Attachment Parenting: http://www.askdrsears.com/html/10/t130100.asp

Nutrition is a most important factor in your pregnancy outcome. The Institute of Medicine-National Academy of Science has published new guidelines that show the risk of low birth weight can be decreased if the mother gains more weight. Underweight women should try to gain 28 to 40 pounds; normal weight women, 25 to 35 pounds; and overweight women, 15 to 25 pounds. Weight gain for women carrying twins or triplets should be 40 pounds or greater.

Birth defects can be caused by inadequate diet from insufficient vitamins and minerals. Folic acid is very important! Even if you are eating regular meals each day, you and your growing baby may still be inadequately nourished. According to the U.S. Public Health Service, all women considering pregnancy should supplement their daily diet with multivitamins. To reduce the incidence of spina bifida, the number one disabling birth defect, and other neural tube defects (NTD's), take 0.4 mg of folic acid (one of the B vitamins) every day.

Beware of household, and environmental hazards, including contact with chemicals, radiation, and other harmful substances.

Screen for Group B Strep before delivery. Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacteria, not to be confused with the variety which causes strep throat, are the most common life-threatening infections in newborn babies. One in three women carry this bacteria in their lower intestinal tract. There are no symptoms. Most often, GBS infects babies during labor or during delivery as they pass through the birth canal. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends testing for GBS between 35-37 weeks in pregnancy. If at any time,even during the last weeks of pregnancy. If positive, you can be treated with antibiotics during delivery to prevent infection of your baby. For more information on Group B Strep, visit www.groupbstrep.org.

Premature birth can be a serious danger to a newborn. Ask your obstetrician to review the symptoms of preterm labor at your next visit; labor occurring prior to 37 weeks gestation. For more information contact your physician or the hospital immediately.

Preterm labor contraction are sometimes painless occurring every 15 minutes or closer. If, after changing position, emptying your bladder, or a period of rest or change in activity, the contractions continue, contact your doctor immediately or go directly to the hospital. Also watch for lower, dull backache, pelvic pressure, intestinal cramping, increase or change in vaginal discharge, and even a general sense of something 'not being right.' Any one or combination of the above should precipitate a call to your doctor. If you experience any bright red blood, a rupture of the membrances, whether a rush or steady trickle, or severe stomach pain this may indicate a medical emergency. Contact your physician immediately! (courtesy of Matria Healthcare)
- More information on pre-term labor

Breast milk has special properties which strengthen a baby's immune system. It is the perfect food, and saves thousands of dollars in health care and food cost. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for a minimum of six months; breastfeeding at least one year; and breastfeeding past one year as long as it is mutually satisfying to mother and baby. New data suggests it may even prevent cancer. For more information contact La Leche League at www.lalecheleague.org or (847)519-7730.
- Deadly Virus Infects More Babies
- Community Breastfeeding Promotions Lower Infant Illness Rates
- August 1-7 is National Breastfeeding Week!

To learn more about Human milk's nutritional benefits, breastfeeding and the Immune System, infant growth and development, and much more, click here.

• Nicotine/Cigarette use - Never sleep with an infant if you are a smoker.
• Alcohol - Do not sleep with a baby if you have had even moderate amounts of alcohol.
• Drugs, recreational or prescription, including cough syrup - All of these substances can put your child at risk for overlay/positional asphyxia.
• Overtiredness - A parent who is too tired may not arouse when or if the baby's sleep position become compromised.
• Bed overcrowding - The infant should not sleep in a crowded bed.
• Multiple siblings sharing bed - Infants should not share their sleeping locations with other siblings.
• Waterbeds - Infants should never be placed to sleep on waterbeds.

Please do not sleep with your infant under any of the above circumstances.
Source: BMJ, 4 December, 1999 CESDI SUDI research group, Royal Hospital for Children.

A parent should never sleep with their child under the influence of prescription or recreational drugs, or if any alcohol has been consumed. Mothers who smoke cigarettes should not sleep with their infants. Be aware of safe sleeping practices. Never place pillows, comforters, stuffed toys, bean bag cushions, sheepskins or other extraneous items in a baby's bed. For more information visit the American Academy of Pediatrics at www.aap.org/family/famhom.htm.

Even second hand smoke can significantly compromise a baby's delicate immune system. Smoking increases the severity and occurrence of upper respiratory, ear infections, pneumonia and asthma. It increases the risk of S.A.D.S., early stillbirth, SIDS/other infant death. Article: At the AAP site www.aap.org/family/envtob.htm.
- S.A.D. Syndrome - The last great mystery of obstetrics

This significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death. There has been a 30% decline of SIDS deaths since the 1994 American Academy of Pediatrics support of the Back to Sleep Campaign. For more information contact the SIDS Alliance at 1.800.221.7437 or visit www.sidsalliance.org.
- Safe Sleeping Newsletter

A baby should be dressed in loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Do not layer clothing unless weather requires it. Overheating a baby can compromise an infants developing and delicate autonomic nervous system. Article: www.parentsoup.com.

Do not hesitate to get a second or a third opinion if you suspect something is wrong during your pregnancy or early infancy. Most physicians understand a parent's need for peace of mind.

Use the count method to keep track of your baby's movement patterns. If you have any concerns, call your healthcare professional immediately. S.A.D.S. can occur during the last few weeks of pregnancy and decreased movement is sometimes a precursor.
- S.A.D. Syndrome - The last great mystery of obstetrics
- Pregnancy Institute Website

Never keep matches or lighters near children, young or old. Talk to your children about the dangers of fire, matches, ovens, curling irons, and other 'hot' items. Always test the water on yourself before bathing baby. The water should be less than warm as baby's skin is more sensitive.
- Foundation for Burns & Trauma Website

Toilets, buckets, sinks, and swimming pools can be deadly for a child. Learn CPR and take all precautions if you have a pool and also when visiting friends and relatives with a pool. Even seasoned swimmers can drown so don't let even older children swim alone!
- Drowning Prevention Website