Reproductive System

Health Tip: See Your Doctor Before Pregnancy

(HealthDay News) -- When you're pregnant, certain medical conditions can be dangerous for you and your developing baby, but you might not even be aware of some of these potential health risks.

Health Tip: Risk Factors for Endometriosis

(HealthDay News) -- Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that resembles uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

Health Tip: Pregnancy and Asthma

(HealthDay News) -- Having asthma doesn't necessarily mean an unhealthy pregnancy.

Health Tip: Buy a Safe Bathtub for Baby

(HealthDay News) -- Your baby needs his or her own place to take a bath. Tubs made for adults are simply too big and lack safety features for infants.

Use these guidelines, provided by the Nemours Foundation, to help select the safest tub for your baby:

* Look for tubs with a backing on the bottom, so it won't slip or move.
* Choose a tub that is made with thick, sturdy plastic. Make sure it can easily support the weight of your baby and the bathing water.

Health Tip: Leaving Your Children Alone

(HealthDay News) -- It's important for a child to learn to be independent and care for himself. But how do you know when a child is old and mature enough to stay alone?

Health Tip: Hair Treatments During Pregnancy

(HealthDay News) -- Women should be cautious about exposure to any chemicals during pregnancy, even to hair dyes and treatments.

Health Tip: Prepare for a Pap Test

(HealthDay News) -- Most women need regular pap tests to check for early signs of cervical cancer. It's important to prepare before the test to get the most accurate results possible.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in the two days before the test, you should avoid:

* Douching.
* Using a tampon.
* Using any suppositories, creams or medications that must be inserted into the vagina.
* Using any vaginal deodorant sprays or powders.
* Having sex.

Health Tip: Prevent Bath Time Injuries

(HealthDay News) -- To help keep bath time safe and fun for your baby, the American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions when it's time to rub-a-dub-dub:

* Never leave the infant alone or with another child in the tub, not even for a second. A baby can drown in very little water.
* Always check the water to make sure it's not too hot before you put your baby in the bath.
* Set your water heater to no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the temperature of the tap by holding a thermometer under the running water for three minutes.

Health Tip: Check Baby's Toys for Safety

(HealthDay News) -- When choosing toys for your baby or toddler, make sure you inspect them carefully for things that could cause injury.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these guidelines when choosing safe toys:

* Make sure each toy is sturdy, well-made, and appropriate for your child's age.
* Don't let your baby play with toys that have sharp edges or points, or small parts.
* Make sure parts fit securely and are not loose.
* Read labels to check for safety information. Look for toys that are non-toxic, washable and hygienic.

Health Tip: Don't Do Your Child's Homework

(HealthDay News) -- A proper home atmosphere for doing homework is important for learning and keeping up in school.