News Archive
March 2003
31st March 2003Maternity units improving
Good news about maternity units - according to an independent NHS watchdog, they're often among the best-run departments in hospitals. read full story28th March 2003
Early diet plays crucial role
The diet of premature babies in the first few weeks of life is crucial, and could help their future health, say researchers. read full story27th March 2003
Autumn conceptions more likely to be boys
If you're hoping to give birth to a baby boy, conceiving in the autumn might improve your chances, researchers claim. read full story26th March 2003
Accidents increase in sunny weather
Children's accidents increase when there's sunny weather, a report suggests. read full story25th March 2003
Baby celebrations for Harry Potter author
J. K. Rowling, famed author of the Harry Potter books, has given birth to a baby boy. read full story24th March 2003
Improved care needed for premature babies
Inadequate standards of hospital care could be contributing to infant deaths, a new report claims. read full story21st March 2003
Screening could reduce miscarriage and premature birth
Treating mild vaginal infections during pregnancy could help reduce the risk of premature delivery or miscarriage, a study suggests. read full story20th March 2003
Eating habits influenced by early childhood
Early childhood diet sets a lifetime eating pattern, a new report suggests. read full story19th March 2003
Baby bath safety is crucial
Some parents leave young children alone in the bath, even though they know it's unadvisable, a study has found. read full story18th March 2003
Future genetic testing method developed
Scientists have identified a possible early detection method for identifying genetic diseases babies may suffer from. read full story17th March 2003
Tooth decay linked to exposure to smoke
Children who are exposed to tobacco smoke could have a higher risk of tooth decay, researchers have found.read full story14th March 2003
Memory not affected by pregnancy
A new study claims the idea that concentration and memory are affected by being pregnant is a myth. read full story13th March 2003
Government announces extended school plans
The life of parents juggling childcare, work and children's health appointments could become slightly easier, if new government plans are put into action. read full story12th March 2003
Some vegetarian parents still face opposition
One in five parents who are bringing their children up as vegetarians face negative pressure from their doctors and health visitors, a survey reveals. read full story11th March 2003
Childbirth increases risk of stress incontinence
Norwegian researchers have confirmed what many women already know - that having a baby increases the risk of experiencing stress incontinence. read full story10th March 2003
Money-raising labour for Comic Relief
A long, arduous labour may not be what most women seek out of preference, but one TV presenter is gritting her teeth and getting prepared to count the hours. read full story7th March 2003
Quadruple Down's Syndrome test is more effective
The accuracy of Down's Syndrome testing is improved with the quadruple test, say researchers. read full story6th March 2003
Waterbirths should be widely available
More women should be offered the chance of a water birth, and it's up to midwives to ensure the option is available, say a UK charity. read full story5th March 2003
Stressed with your toddler
Toddlers can be tiring and testing, but help is at hand for parents who feel stressed, say the NSPCC. read full story4rd March 2003
Car seat instructions can be confusing
Car seats are a crucial part of safe travel for children, yet some instruction manuals are confusing for parents, a report suggests. read full story3rd March 2003
Change in birth certificate law could be imminent
One woman's successful legal battle could lead to important changes in the law. read full story
