Here's how to tell the difference between true labor and false labor -- and when to get medical care.

By turns overwhelming, touching, and sometimes even humorous, the stories surrounding the birth of a baby become part of a family's folklore.

In the happy haze of early pregnancy, the reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off - which makes this the perfect time to start planning for the arrival of your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes.

Where you choose to give birth is an important decision. Is a hospital or a birth center right for you? Knowing the facts can help you make your decision.

Expecting your first baby? Many soon-to-be parents find that birthing classes really help calm their worries and answer many questions.

Many babies are delivered via cesarean sections. Learn why and how C-sections are done.

Choking is an emergency - so it's important to recognize the signs of choking and know what to do if happens.

Should you bank your newborn's cord blood? This article can help you decide.

Alleviating your anxiety about childbirth pain is one of the best ways to ensure that you'll be able to deal with it when the time comes.

Epidurals can make giving birth more calm, controlled, and comfortable. Find out more.

Find out why doctors may induce labor if you're past your due date, how it may be done, and how it may affect you and your baby.

By turns overwhelming, touching, and sometimes even humorous, the stories surrounding the birth of a baby become part of a family's folklore.

When you first meet your newborn, you may be surprised by what you see. Here's what to expect.

Choosing a health care provider to care for you and your baby during your pregnancy is a big decision. For some women with low-risk, uncomplicated pregnancies, midwives are an increasingly popular option.

Some women choose to give birth using no medications at all, relying instead on relaxation techniques and controlled breathing for pain. Get more information on natural childbirth.

After giving birth, you'll notice you've changed somewhat - both physically and emotionally. Here's what to expect after labor and delivery.

By turns overwhelming, touching, and sometimes even humorous, the stories surrounding the birth of a baby become part of a family's folklore.

Your baby's here! Find out what to expect on that special day first day of life.

Some women are more likely than others to go into labor early. Find out what doctors can do to help prevent or delay early labor.

Many things can cause a baby to be born early or with health problems. Some of these things can be controlled, but others can’t. Find out what you can do to have a healthy pregnancy.

Zika virus, spread by mosquitoes, is the cause of a serious birth defect. Here are 5 things to know about Zika and pregnancy.

Advice and information for expectant and new parents.

If you're a first-time parent, put your fears aside and get the basics in this guide about burping, bathing, bonding, and other baby-care concerns.

Premature infants, known as preemies, come into the world earlier than full-term infants and have many special needs that make their care different from that of other babies.

Bed-sharing increases the risk of sleep-related deaths, including SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for the safest sleep environment.

Bonding, the intense attachment that develops between you and your baby, is completely natural. And it's probably one of the most pleasurable aspects of infant care.

Your tot's not a baby anymore! It's time for a big-kid booster seat. But how can you ensure that your child is still safe and secure in the car? Find out here.

Here are answers to some common questions about beginning to breastfeed - everything from latch-on to let-down.

Here are answers to some common questions about beginning to breastfeed - everything from how often to nurse your baby each day to how to tell if your little one is eating enough.

Here are answers to some common questions about going out in public as a breastfeeding mom - from how to do it discreetly to taming sneaky leaks.

Here are answers to some common questions about preventing and reducing breastfeeding discomfort, such as nipple and breast pain.

Here are answers to some common questions about pumping your breast milk - from buying a pump to making the process a little easier.

Here are answers to some common questions about how to keep breast milk and how to clean and sterilize supplies, from bottles to nipples to breast pump parts.

Here are answers to some common questions about breastfed babies and sleep - from where they should snooze to when they'll finally start sleeping through the night.

Here are answers to some common supplemental feeding questions - from when to introduce solids to offering breastfed babies formula.

Here are answers to some questions about common breastfeeding concerns - from biting to spitting up.

Here are answers to some common questions about your milk supply - from having too much to having too little.

Here are answers to some common questions about what breastfeeding mothers should and shouldn't eat and drink.

Making a decision to breastfeed or formula feed your baby is a personal one. There are some points to consider to help you decide which option is best for you and your baby.

Whether your baby comes home from the hospital right away, arrives later, or comes through an adoption agency, homecoming is a major event.

Feeding a baby for the first time is an exciting experience for any new parent. Here's a quick guide to one important aspect of feeding - burping.

Find out what the experts have to say.

What's the right way to install an infant safety seat? Is your toddler ready for a convertible seat? Get the car seat know-how you need here.

Choking is an emergency - so it's important to recognize the signs of choking and know what to do if happens.

You have an important decision to make before you take your newborn son home: whether to circumcise him. Before deciding, talk to your doctor and consider the issues.

Colic is common in babies - but that doesn't make it easier for parents to handle. Learn what colic is, what causes it, and what you can do about it.

From birth, your newborn has been communicating with you. Crying may seem like a foreign language, but soon you'll know what your baby needs - a diaper change, a feeding, or your touch.

Constipation is a very common problem among kids, and it usually occurs because a child's diet doesn't include enough fluids and fiber. In most cases, simple changes can help kids go.

This harmless condition - the infant form of dandruff - causes rough, scaly patches on a baby's skin.

Diaper rash is a very common infection that can cause a baby's skin to become sore, red, scaly, and tender. In most cases, it clears up with simple changes in diapering.

Babies may use up to 10 diapers a day! Get the basics on how to diaper like a pro.

Whether you've chosen to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby, your infant will let you know when it's time to eat.

These guidelines on breastfeeding and bottle feeding can help you know what's right for you and your baby.

Along with considering baby names and buying a crib, choosing the right health care provider should be on your to-do list when you're expecting.

Shopping for formula-feeding supplies can be daunting. Here are answers to some common questions about formula feeding.

Get answers to some common formula-feeding inquiries, from how much newborns eat to what their diapers might look like.

Check out these formula-feeding bottle basics, from how to mix bottles to how to store them safely.

Read about how to manage common formula-feeding concerns, from spitting up and fussiness to gas and milk allergies.

Find answers to common inquiries about introducing solids and whole milk to formula-fed babies.

Immunizations have protected millions of children from potentially deadly diseases. Learn about immunizations and find out exactly what they do - and what they don't.

Doctors use growth charts to figure out whether kids' height and weight measurements are "normal" and whether they're developing on track. Here are some facts about growth charts.

Hernias are fairly common in kids and hernia repair is the one of the most common surgeries performed on children.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Which vaccines does your child need and when? Use this immunization schedule as a handy reference.

Find out what the experts have to say.

A common condition in newborns, jaundice refers to the yellow color of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by excess bilirubin in the blood.

Once a baby arrives, it can seem as if the laundry doubles! Many parents think they need to use baby detergent to clean their baby's clothes, but in most cases, this isn't necessary.

Play is the primary way that infants learn how to move, communicate, socialize, and understand their surroundings. And during the first month of life, your baby will learn by interacting with you.

When you first meet your newborn, you may be surprised by what you see. Here's what to expect.

You probably have lots of questions about your baby's health. When should you call the doctor, and what medical care should you expect for your baby at this age?

Because your baby begins to show his or her personality during these months, your questions may move from simple sleeping and eating concerns to those about physical and social development.

By the time you hold your new baby for the first time, you've probably chosen your little one's doctor. Learn about your newborn's medical care.

Considering adoption? Here are some things to know about the health and medical care of an adopted child, before, during, and after the adoption.

Almost all infants are fussy at times. But some are very fussy because they have an allergy to the protein in cow's milk, which is the basis for most commercial baby formulas.

It may seem like all babies do is sleep, eat, and cry, but their little bodies are making many movements, some of which are reflexes.

Newborn screening tests look for harmful or potentially fatal disorders that aren't apparent at birth. Find out which tests are done and which disorders they're designed to detect.

If you're a new mom, breastfeeding your baby can feel like a challenge. Check out this article for information on common nursing positions, proper latching-on techniques, and how to know if your baby is getting enough to eat.

Oral thrush, a very common infection in infants that causes irritation in and around the baby's mouth, often goes away on its own without medical treatment.

Pyloric stenosis can make a baby vomit forcefully and often. It can lead to serious problems like dehydration, and needs medical treatment right away.

Newborn babies don’t yet have a sense of day and night. They wake often to eat – no matter what time it is.

Transitioning a baby from a bottle to a cup isn't always easy, as babies can become attached to their bottles. These tips can help parents make the switch.

If you're about to begin caring for your preemie at home, try to relax. With some preparation and planning, you'll be ready.

Building a relationship with your child's doctor requires communication and reasonable expectations.

Teething can be a tough time for babies and parents. Here are the facts on teething, including tips for baby teeth hygiene and relieving pain.

Your baby's here! Find out what to expect on that special day first day of life.

Cutting your little one's nails can be a bit scary. Here's how to do it safely.

Shortly before birth, a boy's testicles usually descend into the scrotum. When a testicle doesn't make the move, this is called cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles.

Weaning is when children make the transition from breast milk to other sources of nourishment. Here's how to make this change easier on you and your child.

Why do newborns need a dose of vitamin K at birth? Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what this doctor's checkup will involve a few days after your baby is born.

Find out what this doctor's checkup will involve after your baby arrives.

Immunizations protect kids from many dangerous diseases. Find out what vaccines your child needs to grow up healthy.

A newborn's growth and development is measured from the moment of birth. Find out if your baby's size is normal, and what to expect as your baby grows.

Your newborn is taking in first sights, sounds, and smells while learning to explore the world through the senses. What are your baby's responses to light, noise, and touch?

Premature infants, known as preemies, come into the world earlier than full-term infants and have many special needs that make their care different from that of other babies.

Colic is defined as crying for more than 3 hours a day, for more than 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks.

Failure to thrive refers to a child's inability to gain weight and grow as expected for kids of the same age and gender. Most diagnoses are made in the first few years of life.

Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of death in child abuse cases in the United States. AHT results from injuries caused by someone vigorously shaking an infant.

Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is a condition in which premature infants stop breathing for 15 to 20 seconds during sleep. AOP usually goes away on its own as a baby matures.

Some birth defects are minor and cause no problems; others cause major disabilities. Learn about the different types of birth defects, and how to help prevent them.

Birthmarks that babies are born with, or develop soon after birth, are mostly harmless and many even go away on their own, but sometimes they're associated with certain health problems.

Babies who are born prematurely or who experience respiratory problems shortly after birth are at risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), sometimes called chronic lung disease.

You have an important decision to make before you take your newborn son home: whether to circumcise him. Before deciding, talk to your doctor and consider the issues.

With this birth defect, tissues of the mouth or lip don't form properly when a baby is developing in the womb. The good news is that cleft lip and palate are treatable.

Colic is common in babies - but that doesn't make it easier for parents to handle. Learn what colic is, what causes it, and what you can do about it.

Learn about common NICU conditions, what causes them, how they're diagnosed, how they're treated, and how long babies might stay in the unit.

Some babies are born with a thyroid gland that didn't develop correctly or doesn't work as it should. This is called congenital hypothyroidism.

Constipation is a very common problem among kids, and it usually occurs because a child's diet doesn't include enough fluids and fiber. In most cases, simple changes can help kids go.

This harmless condition - the infant form of dandruff - causes rough, scaly patches on a baby's skin.

Diaper rash is a very common infection that can cause a baby's skin to become sore, red, scaly, and tender. In most cases, it clears up with simple changes in diapering.

Double outlet right ventricle (DORV) is a heart defect where the aorta connects to the heart in the wrong place.

Ebstein anomaly is a rare heart defect that affects the tricuspid valve. It can cause problems that range from very mild to very serious.

Helping your child manage an egg allergy means reading food labels carefully, being aware of what he or she eats, and carrying the right medicines in case of an allergic reaction.

Erythema toxicum is a common rash seen in full-term newborns. No treatment is needed and it goes away on its own.

Most kids follow growth patterns that are normal, but others have ”failure to thrive” – they fail to gain weight as expected and have poor height growth.

Febrile seizures are full-body convulsions caused by high fevers that affect young kids. Although they can be frightening, they usually stop on their own and don't cause any other health problems.

If a woman drinks alcohol during her pregnancy, her baby could be born with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), which causes a wide range of physical, behavioral, and learning problems.

Babies who have fibular hemimelia are born with a short or missing fibula. Experts who treat bone problems have several options to help kids with a hemimelia.

Babies can develop a flat spot on the back of their heads, usually from sleeping in the same position too long. Alternating your baby's sleep position and providing lots of "tummy time" can help.

When Anna was born, she developed red spots that her parents learned were hemangiomas, benign birthmarks that she eventually outgrew. Her mother tells her story.

Hernias are fairly common in kids and hernia repair is the one of the most common surgeries performed on children.

Even people who have plenty to eat may be malnourished if they don't eat food that provides the right nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

Congenital heart defects are relatively common, affecting almost 1 in every 100 newborns in the United States.

Babies with this condition have trouble turning their heads, due to muscle tightness. Simple stretching exercises and physical therapy can help babies get better.

An interrupted aortic arch (IAA) is a rare heart condition in which the aorta doesn’t form completely. Surgery must be done within the first few days of a baby’s life to close the gap in the aorta.

Malrotation is a type of obstruction caused by abnormal development of the intestines while a fetus is in the womb. Find out more about this condition and the complications it can cause.

IUGR is when a baby in the womb doesn't grow at the expected rate during the pregnancy. Women with IUGR should eat a healthy diet; get enough sleep; and avoid alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.

This bowel problem is the most common cause of bowel blockages in very young children. With timely treatment, kids recover quickly.

A common condition in newborns, jaundice refers to the yellow color of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by excess bilirubin in the blood.

Long-term exposure to lead can cause serious health problems, particularly in young kids, so it's important to find out whether your child might be at risk for lead exposure.

Meconium aspiration can happen before, during, or after labor and delivery when a newborn inhales a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid. Although it can be serious, most cases are not.

You probably have lots of questions about your baby's health. When should you call the doctor, and what medical care should you expect for your baby at this age?

Because your baby begins to show his or her personality during these months, your questions may move from simple sleeping and eating concerns to those about physical and social development.

Almost all infants are fussy at times. But some are very fussy because they have an allergy to the protein in cow's milk, which is the basis for most commercial baby formulas.

Necrotizing enterocolitis is an intestinal disease that usually affects preemies. Medicines and therapy can help babies with NEC.

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is when a baby has withdrawal from a medicine or drug the mom took while she was pregnant.

The vast majority of newborns enter the world healthy. But sometimes, infants develop conditions that require medical tests and treatment.

If your child is allergic to nuts or peanuts, it's essential to learn what foods might contain them and how to avoid them.

Oral thrush, a very common infection in infants that causes irritation in and around the baby's mouth, often goes away on its own without medical treatment.

For most kids, these birthmarks are no big deal — they're just part of who they are. Read about port-wine stains, how to care for them, and, if necessary, what treatments are available.

Pyloric stenosis can make a baby vomit forcefully and often. It can lead to serious problems like dehydration, and needs medical treatment right away.

Retinopathy of prematurity, which can happen in premature babies, causes abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Some children will need surgery to prevent vision loss or blindness.

Sepsis is a serious infection usually caused when bacteria make toxins that cause the immune system to attack the body's own organs and tissues.

Spina bifida is a birth defect that involves the incomplete development of the spinal cord or its coverings. It's usually detected before a baby is born and treated right away.

SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants 1 month to 1 year old. Though SIDS remains unpredictable, you can help reduce your infant's risk.

A baby with Tay-Sachs disease is born without an important enzyme, so fatty proteins build up in the brain, hurting the baby's sight, hearing, movement, and mental development.

Teething can be a tough time for babies and parents. Here are the facts on teething, including tips for baby teeth hygiene and relieving pain.

For some newborns, the first few breaths of life may be more faster and more labored than normal because of a lung condition called transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN).

Shortly before birth, a boy's testicles usually descend into the scrotum. When a testicle doesn't make the move, this is called cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles.

If your child has a birth defect, you don't have to go it alone - many people and resources are available to help you.

The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may seem like a foreign place, but understanding what goes on there can help. Here's how to familiarize yourself with the NICU.

Our week-by-week illustrated pregnancy calendar is a detailed guide to all the changes taking place in your baby - and in you!

This week‑by‑week pregnancy calendar shows you some of the important developments taking place as your baby grows.

Here's a peek at what's going on inside your body during the amazing 40 weeks of pregnancy. Watch your belly — and your baby — grow!

Week 1 is actually your menstrual period, but because your due date is calculated from the first day of your last period, it counts as part of your 40-week pregnancy.

At this point in the pregnancy, all vital organs have been formed and are starting to work together. Congenital abnormalities are unlikely to develop after week 10.

If you saw a picture of your baby now, you'd think you had a genius on your hands — the baby's head accounts for about half of the body length!

Tiny fingernails and toenails start to form this week, which is the last of your first trimester.

As you begin the second trimester, your baby may be able to put a thumb in his or her mouth although the sucking muscles aren't completely developed yet.

Some fine hairs, called lanugo, have developed on your baby's face. This soft colorless hair protects the skin and will eventually cover most of your baby's body until it is shed just before delivery.

Muscle development continues, and your baby is probably making lots of movements with his or her head, mouth, arms, wrists, hands, legs, and feet.

Your baby can hold his or her head erect, and facial muscles now allow for a variety of expressions, such as squinting and frowning.

Your baby is still very tiny at about 5.1 inches from crown to rump this week.

Your baby's bones had been developing but were still soft. This week, they begin to harden, or ossify.

A waxy substance called vernix caseosa is covering your baby to help protect the delicate skin from becoming chapped or scratched.

Week 2 is the midpoint of a typical menstrual cycle, when ovulation occurs and conditions are most favorable for fertilization of an egg by sperm.

You're now halfway through your pregnancy and possibly feeling your baby's first movements, which may begin between weeks 18 and 20.

Your baby's intestines are developed enough that small amounts of sugars are absorbed from the fluid your baby swallows and passed through the digestive system to the large bowel.

Brain and nerve endings are formed enough so that the fetus can feel touch, while you might be feeling irregular, painless Braxton Hicks contractions.

You may feel more forceful movements — your baby's daily workout routine includes moving the muscles in the fingers, toes, arms, and legs.

Your baby's inner ear has developed enough that your baby can know when he or she is upside down or right side up in your belly.

You may notice that your baby has resting and alert periods. Your baby's hearing has continued to develop, too — he or she may now be able to hear your voice!

Your baby now weighs a little less than 2 pounds and will gain weight steadily until birth.

This first week of the third trimester, your baby looks similar to what he or she will look like at birth - just smaller and thinner.

Your health care provider may tell you whether your baby is headfirst or feet- or bottom-first (called breech position). Don't worry if your baby is in the breech position right now — most babies will switch positions on their own.

Your active baby's first few flutters of movement have given way to hard jabs and kicks that may take your breath away.

During this week, the rapidly dividing fertilized egg will implant itself in the uterus, at the site that eventually will become the placenta.

Your baby continues to gain weight and layers of fat that will provide warmth after birth.

By now, the milk glands in your breasts may have started to make colostrum, the milk that will feed the baby in the first few days if you decide to breastfeed.

At this stage in the pregnancy, your baby's hair is developing, in the form of eyelashes, eyebrows, and on your baby's head.

Like a newborn, your baby sleeps much of the time and even has REM sleep, the stage when our most vivid dreams happen.

Your baby is probably in position for delivery — your health care provider can tell you if your baby is positioned head- or bottom-first.

Because of increasing size, your baby is now cramped and restricted inside the uterus. Fetal movements may decrease, but feel stronger and more forceful.

At this point, your appetite may return because the baby has dropped down into your pelvis, and is no longer putting as much pressure on your stomach and intestines.

This week, your baby continues to gain weight — at half an ounce a day!

At this point, you may be taking frequent trips to the bathroom. That's because your baby is engaged in your pelvis, so your bladder is extremely compressed.

Braxton Hicks contractions (also called "false labor") may become more pronounced, and your water may break.

During this week, your baby, or embryo, has two layers of cells that will develop into organs and body parts.

Your baby is here! Or maybe not — most women, especially first-time moms, don't deliver on their estimated due dates.

This week, the embryo begins to form a distinct shape that includes the neural tube, which will become the spinal cord and brain.

Your baby's heart will begin to beat around this time, and the beginnings of the digestive and respiratory systems are forming, as are small buds that will grow into arms and legs.

The umbilical cord has formed, and the mouth, nostrils, ears, and eyes are some of the facial features that become more defined this week. The arm bud now has a hand on the end of it, which looks like a tiny paddle.

Around this time, symptoms such as a missed period, nausea, extreme fatigue, or tight clothes may make the reality of pregnancy hit home.

Your baby measures about 0.6 to 0.7 inches from crown to rump and weighs around 0.1 ounces. Your baby may make some first movements as muscles develop, but you won't feel them for several more weeks.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is ideal for kids who need a gluten-free diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

Make delicious French toast with this easy recipe.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

A quick and easy recipe for parents with busy schedules.

This high-calorie recipe is especially for kids with cystic fibrosis (CF), who may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

Learn which nutrients you need while pregnant or breastfeeding, and easy ways to add them to your diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for kids with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.

If you're a first-time parent, put your fears aside and get the basics in this guide about burping, bathing, bonding, and other baby-care concerns.

Read the basics about genetics, including how certain illnesses, or increased risks for certain illnesses, pass from generation to generation.

Find out what the experts have to say.

More kids are injured in auto collisions than in any other type of accident, but you can protect them by learning the proper use of car seats and booster seats.

Pregnant women experience a variety of emotions and life changes. But most first-time dads have lots of feelings and concerns to deal with, too.

Expecting another child? Things will be a little different this time. Here's how to prepare for your new addition.

In the happy haze of early pregnancy, the reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off - which makes this the perfect time to start planning for the arrival of your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes.

Where you choose to give birth is an important decision. Is a hospital or a birth center right for you? Knowing the facts can help you make your decision.

Expecting your first baby? Many soon-to-be parents find that birthing classes really help calm their worries and answer many questions.

Your tot's not a baby anymore! It's time for a big-kid booster seat. But how can you ensure that your child is still safe and secure in the car? Find out here.

Find out what the experts have to say.

What's the right way to install an infant safety seat? Is your toddler ready for a convertible seat? Get the car seat know-how you need here.

You might think of babies and toddlers when you hear the words "babyproofing" or "childproofing," but unintentional injury is the leading cause of death in kids 14 and under.

Choosing baby products can be confusing, but one consideration must never be compromised: your little one's safety.

Baby bathtubs give parents a safe way to wash a wet, slippery baby. Here's how to choose and use one.

Babies love and need close contact, and infant carriers are ideal for nestling them against their parents. Here's how to use one safely.

Babies can get hurt if they fall off changing tables, so they should always be watched closely. Here's what else to know.

When you choose a crib, check it carefully to make sure that your baby's sleep space is safe. Here's how.

Gates placed at the top of stairs or in doorways are used to keep toddlers away from hazardous areas of the home. Here's what to look for.

Regular infant seats simply allow young babies to sit up. Never substitute any type of infant seat for a child safety seat (car seat).

Playpens are popular because parents can put their baby in one knowing that their little one can't wander off. But they're no substitute for adult supervision.

Strollers come in a variety of sizes and styles. When you're searching for that perfect stroller that's light and portable, keep safety in mind.

All toys you select for your baby or toddler should meet safety standards. These tips can help you find safe toys for your little one.

Should you bank your newborn's cord blood? This article can help you decide.

Along with considering baby names and buying a crib, choosing the right health care provider should be on your to-do list when you're expecting.

Newborn screening tests look for harmful or potentially fatal disorders that aren't apparent at birth. Find out which tests are done and which disorders they're designed to detect.

Parents of twins (or more!) can feel as if they've left the hospital and arrived home on a different planet. Here's how to cope.

It's important for new mothers – and those who love them – to understand the symptoms of postpartum depression and reach out to family, friends, and medical professionals for help.

Genetic counselors work with people who are either planning to have a baby or are pregnant to determine whether they carry the genes for certain inherited disorders. Find out more.

Every parent-to-be hopes for a healthy baby, but it can be hard not to worry. Find out what tests can keep you informed of your health — and your baby's — throughout pregnancy.

Find out what tests may be offered to you during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 13 through 26 of pregnancy.

Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 27 through 40 of pregnancy.

Are you expecting more than one baby? Find out how to take care of yourself and prepare for your multiple birth experience.

The arrival of a new baby can cause lots of changes. But parents can prepare kids for an addition to the family.

If your daughter is pregnant and planning to have the baby, many changes await your family. How can you support her through the challenges to come?

Find out what the experts have to say.

A shop in your local shopping center offers ultrasounds for pregnant women. It seems convenient, but are there risks involved? Here's what experts say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Hernias are fairly common in kids and hernia repair is the one of the most common surgeries performed on children.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

The Apgar score is the very first test given to a newborn, done right after birth in the delivery or birthing room.

Expectant mothers usually are offered a blood test called the multiple marker test, sometimes called a triple screen or a quad screen. Find out what it measures.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Here are 10 common surprises that moms-to-be can expect during their pregnancy.

Zika virus, spread by mosquitoes, is the cause of a serious birth defect. Here are 5 things to know about Zika and pregnancy.

It's best for babies not to be born before they're due. Learn what you can do to prevent early labor.

Our week-by-week illustrated pregnancy calendar is a detailed guide to all the changes taking place in your baby - and in you!

Find out what the experts have to say.

A shop in your local shopping center offers ultrasounds for pregnant women. It seems convenient, but are there risks involved? Here's what experts say.

In the happy haze of early pregnancy, the reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off - which makes this the perfect time to start planning for the arrival of your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes.

To eat well during pregnancy, your extra calories should come from nutritious foods that contribute to your baby's growth and development.

In an ectopic pregnancy, a fertilized egg has implanted outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. If undiagnosed, as the pregnancy grows, it can burst the organ that contains it and endanger the mother's life.

Most women benefit greatly from exercising throughout their pregnancies. But during that time, you'll need to make a few changes to your normal exercise routine.

A fetal echocardiogram (also called a fetal echo) uses sound waves to create pictures of an unborn baby's heart.

Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (also called a fetal MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of an unborn baby.

One of the most important things you can do to help prevent serious birth defects in your baby is to get enough folic acid every day - especially before conception and during early pregnancy.

Women who have this common but potentially dangerous bacteria while pregnant receive antibiotics during labor to avoid passing the bacteria onto their babies.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

The sooner in pregnancy good care begins, the better for the health of both moms and their babies. Here's what to expect.

Miscarriages are common, and in most cases aren't preventable. But you can take steps to increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

Newborn screening tests look for harmful or potentially fatal disorders that aren't apparent at birth. Find out which tests are done and which disorders they're designed to detect.

Even in these times, pregnancy continues to inspire its own set of myths and tales. Which are true and which aren't?

Moms-to-be have a lot of questions about what's safe during pregnancy. Keep your sanity by knowing what you can - and can't - do before your baby arrives.

Here's a peek at what's going on inside your body during the amazing 40 weeks of pregnancy. Watch your belly — and your baby — grow!

Genetic counselors work with people who are either planning to have a baby or are pregnant to determine whether they carry the genes for certain inherited disorders. Find out more.

This test takes a sample of the amniotic fluid. In the second trimester, it can show signs of chromosomal disorders, genetic problems, and neural tube defects. In the third trimester, it can check for infection and Rh incompatibility, and reveal if a baby's lungs are strong enough to breathe normall

A chorionic villus sampling (CVS) checks cells from the placenta for chromosomal abnormalities. Most women whose pregnancies are not high-risk don't need this test.

A contraction stress test measures the fetal heart rate to ensure that a baby can handle contractions during labor.

The first trimester screening (or first trimester screen) includes a blood test and an ultrasound exam. It's done to see if a fetus is at risk for a chromosomal abnormality or birth defect.

Glucose screenings check for gestational diabetes, a short-term form of diabetes that some women develop during pregnancy.

The multiple marker test is a blood test done to screen for neural tube defects and chromosomal disorders.

This test checks to see if the baby responds normally to stimulation and is getting enough oxygen. It's done to check on the health of the fetus in a high-risk pregnancy or when the due date has passed.

This quick test examines fetal blood directly from the umbilical cord. It's used to detect disorders in the fetus.

A prenatal ultrasound is a safe and painless test that shows a baby's shape and position. It can be done in the first, second, or third trimester of pregnancy.

Every parent-to-be hopes for a healthy baby, but it can be hard not to worry. Find out what tests can keep you informed of your health — and your baby's — throughout pregnancy.

Find out what tests may be offered to you during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 13 through 26 of pregnancy.

Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 27 through 40 of pregnancy.

If you just found out you're pregnant, one of the first tests you should expect is a blood-type test. This basic test determines your blood type and Rh factor, which may play an important role in your baby's health.

Bouts of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy are considered normal. But when they're so severe that a woman can't keep foods down, she and her baby's health are at risk.

Like many parents-to-be, you might have questions about the safety of sex and what's "normal." That can vary widely, but you can be sure that your sex life will change during pregnancy.

Catching enough ZZZs during pregnancy can be difficult for many women. Here's why - plus tips for better sleep.

During your pregnancy, you'll probably get advice from everyone. But staying healthy depends on you - read about the many ways to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.

If your doctor restricts you to bed rest for your health and your baby's during your pregnancy, don't despair. Here's how to make your time in bed more enjoyable and productive.

Pregnancy brings a mix of feelings, and not all of them are good. It can be even harder if you're dealing with depression or anxiety.

Some women are more likely than others to go into labor early. Find out what doctors can do to help prevent or delay early labor.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

The Apgar score is the very first test given to a newborn, done right after birth in the delivery or birthing room.

Expectant mothers usually are offered a blood test called the multiple marker test, sometimes called a triple screen or a quad screen. Find out what it measures.

Find out what the experts have to say.

Find out what the experts have to say.

If your daughter is pregnant and planning to have the baby, many changes await your family. How can you support her through the challenges to come?

Many things can cause a baby to be born early or with health problems. Some of these things can be controlled, but others can’t. Find out what you can do to have a healthy pregnancy.