Obesity Before Pregnancy Increases Risk of Birth Defects
A new study at the CDC revealed that women who were obese when they became pregnant were three times more likely to have a baby with a heart defect or spina bifida, and twice as likely to have a baby with an omphalocele (a defect in the abdominal wall). Even women who were overweight, but not actually obese, had a higher risk. The reason for these findings is not clear, but thought to be in part due to undiagnosed diabetes, which IS known to increase the risk of birth defects. It may also be due to other metabolic effects on the fetus.

Breastfeeding Hormone Levels Lower in New Moms Who Are Obese
A small study in New York measured prolactin levels (the hormone that regulates breast milk production) in 40 women. The 17 mothers who were overweight or obese PRIOR to pregnancy had lower levels of the hormone (which was measured at day 2 and 7) compared to the 23 women who had a normal weight prior to pregnancy. It is known that obesity creates a variety of hormonal imbalances, and this study suggests a possible reason why obese women may have more difficulty with milk supply.

Dr. Sears comments: These are concerning studies, and if the findings are true, they should be an incentive for women to eat healthy and exercise to get themselves in shape BEFORE getting pregnant. Click here to read more about the LEAN program, and here for nutrition during pregnancy.

U.S. Study Shows American Women Stop Breastfeeding Too Soon The goal of the Healthy People 2010 program is to have 75% of women begin breastfeeding, 50% to continue to 6 months, and 25% to breastfeeding for at least a year. A survey of American women, however, shows we are only half way there. Only 65% attempt breastfeeding, by 6 months only 27% of babies are getting SOME breast milk, and only 12% of babies are breastfeeding at 1 year.

Dr. Sears comments: This was a very small study. It only involved 700 women. But if it IS any indication of how the U.S. is doing, then we are way behind where we should be as a nation. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months, and for breastfeeding to continue until 1 year of age. According to THIS survey our nation isn't even close. Click here for info on the benefits of breastfeeding.

World Health Organization Urges Major Food Companies to Join Efforts to Improve Nutrition
As part of a global campaign to improve the world's health, the WHO has asked major food companies, including McDonald's, Coca Cola, and Nestle to join their fight to prevent heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory diseases (which together are responsible for about 60% of all deaths) caused by smoking, lack of exercise, and bad eating habits. Such world "food giants" could help lead the way in educating the public about the importance of cutting down on fats, sugar, and salt, and increasing fruits and vegetables.

Dr. Sears comments: Amen. Read more about nutrition in our LEAN program.

Mad Cow Disease Found in Alberta, Canada
One cause of this neurologic disease was found in a cow this month. Huge efforts are underway to prevent the spread of the disease. The U.S. and other countries temporarily halted imported beef products from Canada until this issue is resolved.

Birthing Center Births Found to be Just as Safe as Hospital Births, With Less Interventions
A study in San Diego evaluated 1800 births at a birthing center over a 2-year period and compared them to 1100 hospital births. Women at the birthing center received regular prenatal care from certified nurse midwives. High-risk pregnancies and foreseeable complications were transferred to an OB for a hospital birth. Pediatricians and Obstetricians were also available to go to the birthing center for any surprise complications. The results of the study showed that the moms and babies were just as healthy at the birthing center as the hospital, but the birthing center had a lower rate of interventions. At the birth center, only 8% of women were induced (compared to 15% in hospital), 11% had a C-section (compared to 19% of hospital births), and only 30% received an epidural (compared to 70% in hospital).

Dr. Sears comments: This study further confirms the safety of birthing centers, especially when appropriate emergency services and OB/Pediatricians are available for back up. And women can enjoy the type of birth they want with whatever level of intervention they wish.