U.S. Cases of Infant Gut Illness Plummet After Vaccine Introduced

THURSDAY, June 20, 2019 -- In the midst of the "anti-vaxxer" movement comes more scientific proof that vaccines help save children's lives.

Researchers report that since the 2006 introduction of a vaccine against rotavirus -- a common and potentially fatal cause of infant diarrhea -- U.S. cases have fallen dramatically.

Few Days of Formula Feeding After Delivery Won't Harm Breastfed Babies

MONDAY, June 10, 2019 -- If your newborn is breastfeeding and losing weight, will feeding her formula do any harm?

Though doctors have long advised against it, a new study suggests giving baby both formula and the breast is OK.

Infant Pain Heightened After Opioid Exposure in Womb

THURSDAY, May 23, 2019 -- Newborns who were exposed to opioids in the womb have stronger-than-normal reactions to pain and may require special care sooner than previously thought, researchers report.

Opioids include prescription pain medications and illegal drugs such as heroin.

Putting Your Child to Sleep in a Car Seat Can Be Deadly

MONDAY, May 20, 2019 --

A car seat is the safest place for an infant while traveling in a car. But putting your baby to sleep in a portable car seat at home can be deadly, a new study warns.

How to Soothe Baby's Teething Pain Safely

THURSDAY, May 9, 2019 -- Few things are as distressing as baby's cries when his or her first teeth are coming in, but it's important to know what not to use to soothe that pain.

Over the years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings about many teething products, starting with over-the-counter gels and liquids containing benzocaine, which acts as a numbing agent. Benzocaine is linked to a rare but potentially deadly reaction that lowers the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream. This side effect happened mostly in children age 2 and under and after just one use. The FDA recommends not using these products in this age group.

Breast Milk Has Biggest Benefit for Preemies' Brains: Study

SATURDAY, April 27, 2019 -- Another reason breast is best: Breast milk boosts levels of chemicals crucial for brain growth and development in premature babies with a very low birth weight, a new study reveals.

"Our previous research established that vulnerable preterm infants who are fed breast milk early in life have improved brain growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes," said Catherine Limperopoulos, director of MRI research of the developing brain at Children's National Health System in Washington, D.C.