As the summer season unfolds, a harrowing incident recently emerged from Mississippi, highlighting a perilous consequence of outdoor activities: tick paralysis. Jessica Griffin’s five-year-old daughter faced a sudden inability to walk and speak, a terrifying alarm for any parent. Following extensive medical examinations, including blood work and a CT scan, medical professionals at UMMC diagnosed
Health
Navigating the tumultuous waters of parenthood is a venture filled with countless surprises, some delightful and others, quite frankly, unexpectedly overwhelming. One of the poignant and often unspoken realities of this journey is the postpartum experience. While much attention is given to the beauty of bringing life into the world, far less is discussed about
For countless generations, cultures across the globe have recognized the significance of a devoted healing period for new mothers, commonly referred to as postpartum confinement. This vital phase, often lasting around 40 days after the birth of a child, is centered on the belief that a mother’s wellbeing in the years to come hinges on
Becoming a mother is a life-altering experience, particularly for those who step into this role at a young age. I found myself unexpectedly thrust into motherhood with limited knowledge and scant preparation for the emotional and physical demands that accompany raising a child. As I embraced this new chapter of my life, I faced numerous
For many years, cow’s milk has been heralded as a significant contributor to children’s growth and health. However, recent findings are prompting parents to rethink whether this traditional staple is the best option for their toddlers. A study highlighted that children who consume cow’s milk tend to be slightly taller compared to those who do
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a topic frequently mentioned in conversations surrounding pregnancy, particularly as expectant mothers approach their third trimester. An intriguing aspect about GBS is the unexplainable disparity in its prevalence among pregnant women; it’s estimated that about 20% of women carry the bacteria, yet the reasons for this are still largely a
In a world filled with joys and trials of parenthood, no experience is as profoundly distressing as the loss of a child. Ashton Zager, a fiber artist and mother of two, recently shared a tragic announcement that has reverberated throughout social media. Her youngest son, Hank, lost his life due to a choking incident involving
After the intense emotional and physical experience of childbirth, many new parents find themselves preoccupied with their newborn—a celebration of life that overshadows discussions about the placenta. Once just a biological necessity, the placenta is often dismissed as medical waste once the baby arrives. However, recent research suggests that this pancake-shaped organ contains invaluable information
One of the most heartbreaking experiences for any mother is witnessing her baby in distress without a clear understanding of the cause. A simple need—hunger, discomfort from a dirty diaper, or the need for a nap—usually takes center stage during these moments. These basic necessities can often be swiftly addressed with loving attention and physical
The journey into motherhood can be as bewildering as it is thrilling. Many women enter pregnancy with soaring expectations, often influenced by rosy portrayals in media and social platforms. However, the stark contrast between those expectations and reality can be a shock. Understanding the less glamorous realities of the first trimester can equip expectant mothers