Health News
Pregnancy Changes a Woman's Brain
 
	At no other time in a woman's life does she experience the massive hormonal fluctuations as she does during pregnancy. New discoveries show that these changes may be creating a "mommy brain." 
Beyond Normal PMS
 
	Women experience varying levels of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), and some even none at all. But severe cases of the syndrome, called premenstrual dysphoric disorder ( PMDD ) can be almost debilitating. 
New Light on Stillbirths 
 
	A stillbirth is a traumatic event, and the underlying causes remain unknown in as many as half of them. 
Gel Can Prevent An Early Delivery
 
	If you’re expecting or plan on getting pregnant, there’s treatment that can help you have a safer, longer pregnancy. A vaginal hormone gel may prevent premature births, which can help women who have a short cervix and are at risk for delivering prematurely, according to a new study. 
Post Menopause? Rethink Diet Resolutions
 
	Resolving to shed those extra holiday pounds may sound like a good idea, but for postmenopausal women, maintaining the status quo may be better unless they keep the weight off for good. 
Your "Muffin Top" Produces a Bigger Baby
 
	Are you convinced that your muffin top isn't hurting anyone, so there's no need to lose it? Think again. A new study shows that packing on extra pounds is bad for your baby - even if you're not pregnant yet. 
To Work or Not to Work, Mom?
 
	New mothers trying to decide whether to work or stay home with their children may find they actually can get the best of both worlds when they work part-time, according to a ten-year study. 
Pregnancy Increases Risk for Tuberculosis
 
	Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection that affects your lungs. It’s not very common in the U.S., only affecting about 11,000 Americans yearly. But there’s one group that may be more susceptible to TB: pregnant women. 
Do Birth Control Drugs Cause Blood Clots?
 
	Women who use oral contraception, take caution: Birth control pills that contain the hormone  drospirenone may cause blood clots. Government officials are still examining study data and will decided whether the pills’ benefits outweigh the risk. 
Diabetics Are More Likely to Have C-Sections
 
	If you’re diabetic and pregnant, you probably know that you’re at greater risk for a difficult childbirth, compared to women who aren’t diabetic. Researchers now know why.