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Just six months after the Garbose Family Special Delivery Unit opened, more than 75 babies have been born and are sharing their first holiday season with their joyful families. Families from 13 states and at least two other countries have traveled to Children's Hospital for expert prenatal care, delivery and postnatal care for their babies in a place where family comes first.

The Garbose Family Special Delivery Unit (SDU) at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is the world's first comprehensive obstetrical unit within a pediatric hospital for mothers carrying a fetus with a known birth defect. It is an innovative new labor and delivery unit for expectant mothers whose babies require highly specialized, sophisticated neonatal, surgical or cardiac care at birth. Unlike centers where mothers give birth and recover in one hospital while their critically ill newborns are transferred to a specialized pediatric facility, the SDU allows the mother and baby to stay in the same hospital with a multidisciplinary team of experts caring for both the mother and the baby.

The uniqueness of the SDU goes far beyond the geography of having the mother and baby together in a pediatric hospital. The unit staff strives to optimize and individualize the birth experience for mothers and normalize their delivery experience as much as possible during a difficult and technically challenging time for the baby. After the birth, the SDU team immediately fosters bringing the family together, encouraging parents to be with their new babies as soon as possible and will even provide some of Mom's postpartum care in the intensive care units where these babies are being cared for. This helps to make an overwhelming time a little bit easier because families aren't divided.

The SDU teams also works to help families achieve the best experience even at a time of uncertainty. Families start from the baby's birth, not from the time of discharge, and are supported by other families on the unit because everyone is experiencing a similar type of life-changing event.

"This state-of-the-art, one-of-a-kind Special Delivery Unit provides the most personalized, comprehensive care for these families before, during and after birth," says Dr. N. Scott Adzick, surgeon-in-chief at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and medical director of the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment (CFDT). "Babies are delivered and treated immediately in the Harriet and Ronald Lassin Newborn/Infant Intensive Care Unit (N/IICU) or the Evelyn and Daniel M. Tabas Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) while the mother recovers in the same hospital."

The first baby born in the Special Delivery Unit, Caoimhghin Williams, arrived on Tuesday, June 10 at 9:43 a.m. During their 18-week ultrasound, Courtney and Martin Williams of Albany, N.Y., learned that their fourth son had spina bifida.

Courtney's younger sister had been born with spina bifida and she was surprised but not completely shocked with the diagnosis. Their obstetrician referred the Williamses to the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment at Children's Hospital. After a one-day evaluation process with the CFDT team, they knew for certain that the baby had spina bifida and that they would need to deliver their baby at CHOP.

Courtney and Martin welcomed Caoimhghin into the world and were able to spend time with him before he went into surgery – which was necessary to close the opening on his spine. They were by his side immediately after the procedure. Courtney and Martin were thrilled to be able to go down the hall to the Newborn/Infant Intensive Care Unit to see their son the same night that he was born. The SDU team focused on keeping the family together as much as possible.

Courtney's mother tells a truly compelling story about how Courtney's experience delivering Caoimhghin in the Special Delivery Unit is light years away from the care she received when she delivered a baby with spina bifida more than 20 years ago. The grandmother poignantly notes that she remained in her community hospital, unable to visit the hospital where her baby daughter was receiving care, which was hours away from home, until after her discharge from the hospital five days later. She needed to search to find a neurosurgeon for her daughter's surgical repair and just wanted to feel like a normal mom. The SDU is exactly the experience she hoped that Courtney would have – the ability to be with Caoimhghin immediately, to know his neurosurgeon and to feel like her delivery experience was normal.

For more information, visit www.chop.edu.

(12-30-08)

A maternity leave of six weeks or less, or between six and 12 weeks, has been associated with a fourfold and twofold higher risk, respectively, of non-established breastfeeding, according to a study in the journal Pediatrics.

Researchers examined breastfeeding duration in new mothers – age 18 or older, who gave birth to a single child (all in southern California) without abnormalities – between July 2002 and December 2003. The study found that women with maternity leaves ending within six weeks of giving birth are three times more likely to stop breastfeeding, compared to women who do not return to work. Women working in inflexible or non-managerial jobs, and those with high psychosocial distress, are at greatest risk of breastfeeding cessation.

Maternity leave after delivery but not prior to delivery influences breastfeeding success. The AAP recommends that babies be breastfed during the first year of life, and for as long as is mutually desired. The study authors recommend that pediatricians encourage women to take maternity leave, and advocate for extended, paid postpartum leave and more flexibility in working conditions for breastfeeding women.

(12-30-08)

A new study links in-home smoking bans with parental understanding of the negative effects of thirdhand smoke – the residual tobacco contamination that remains after a cigarette is extinguished, according to a study in the journal Pediatrics.

For the study, researchers conducted phone surveys of more than 1,500 households to assess the level of agreement with the statements that breathing air in a room today where people smoked yesterday could harm the health of children.

Overall, 95.4 percent of nonsmokers versus 84.1 percent of smokers agreed that secondhand smoke harms the health of children, and 65.2 percent of nonsmokers versus 43.3 percent of smokers, that thirdhand smoke harms children. Strict rules prohibiting smoking in the home were more prevalent among nonsmokers – 88.4 percent versus 26.7 percent. Belief that thirdhand smoke harms the health of children was independently associated with rules prohibiting smoking in the home. Health messages about thirdhand smoke contamination should be incorporated into tobacco control campaigns, programs and routine clinical practice.

(12-30-08)

Losing a child to the flu seems unimaginable, but to members of Families Fighting Flu (FFF), it is a tragedy they have experienced firsthand. The nonprofit organization of families and health care practitioners who have lost a child to the flu or have had a child experience severe medical complications from the flu is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health organizations to commemorate Children's Influenza Vaccination Day on December 9 and help ensure other families don't have to bear this anguish.

This year, the CDC and FFF have designated Tuesday, December 9, Children's Flu Vaccination Day as a reminder to parents that vaccinating their children and those who live with or care for them is the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease, which can lead to hospitalization and even death.

"The willingness of the members of Families Fighting Flu to speak openly about their loss and the importance of vaccinating children is both courageous and selfless, and I thank them for helping to spread the word about this important issue," says Dr. Julie Gerberding, director of the CDC.

The flu is a contagious disease that can cause symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, coughing, extreme tiredness, runny or stuffy nose and even nausea and diarrhea in children. It spreads easily from person to person. Yearly flu vaccination should begin as soon as vaccine is available and continue throughout the flu season, into December, January and beyond.

Each year in the United States, an average of 20,000 children younger than five are hospitalized because of flu-related complications. As many as one in five children younger than 5 may have to see the doctor, visit the ER or other urgent care for treatment for flu. And sadly, about 100 children on average die from this serious disease each year.

"Losing my infant son, Ian, to the flu has been an unbearable heartbreak, but he is the reason I want parents to know how important it is to protect their infants, especially those who are too young for vaccination by getting themselves, their family members, and every caregiver vaccinated against the flu," says Julie Moise, a FFF board member.

CDC recommends that children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday get vaccinated against the flu. CDC also recommends that close contacts (family members, caregivers, etc.) of children younger than five get a flu vaccine each year to provide added protection to this high risk group. Additionally, people who live with or have other close contact with a child or children of any age with a chronic health problem (asthma, diabetes, etc.) should get a flu vaccine.

Children under 6 months are too young to receive the flu vaccine, but they are among the most vulnerable to develop serious, even fatal, complications from flu. This makes vaccination of their close contact especially critical. Children ages 6 months up to 9 years who are getting a flu vaccine for the first time need two doses of vaccine the first year. The second dose should be given 28 or more days after the first dose.

To learn when or where to get a flu vaccine, contact your doctor or local health department. For more information, call CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit www.cdc.gov/flu.

(12-09-08)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that small traces of melamine are not harmful in most foods, but does agree that strict limits need to be set and imposed by regulators before taking items off store shelves. The safety experts at the meeting in Ottawa, Canada, also decided that while melamine should not be in any food, a maximum amount of 0.2 milligrams per kilogram of body weight is tolerable daily.

Learn more in the article Investigating Melamine: Is This Chemical in Some Dinnerware and Sippy Cups Harming Our Children?

(12-09-08)

The International Formula Council (IFC) has issued the following statement:

"In light of recent reports regarding melamine and infant formula, the International Formula Council and its members reassure parents and health professionals that infant formula manufactured in the United States remains safe and nutritious. Additionally, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) spokesperson has stated, 'There's no basis for concern because we're talking about trace levels that are so low ... that there's absolutely no risk.'

"While trace levels of melamine may be found in food as a by-product of processing and packaging, these levels are far below the level deemed safe by numerous other governments including Canada, New Zealand, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Malaysia, and China. Further, these trace amounts are far below the levels recently found in Chinese infant formulas intentionally contaminated with melamine.

"U.S. infant formula products meet the highest standards and specifications; they are manufactured with strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices using high-quality ingredients. Each component in the manufacturing process is carefully assessed to ensure that it complies with strict industry standards, and finished products are tested to meet or exceed all FDA standards for infant formula. The IFC and its members are committed to the continued high standards of food safety we have established with the FDA. IFC would also welcome the opportunity to help further implement these standards and quality control testing requirements globally."

The International Formula Council is an association of manufacturers and marketers of formulated nutrition products, e.g., infant formulas and adult nutritionals, whose members are based predominantly in North America. IFC members are: Abbott Nutrition; Mead Johnson Nutritionals; Nestle Nutrition – USA; and Wyeth Nutrition.

Read more about melamine in the article Investigating Melamine: Is This Chemical in Some Dinnerware and Sippy Cups Harming Our Children?

(12-09-08)

While 79 percent of U.S. states reportedly collect breastfeeding data for birth certificates, or expect to do so within two years, information collection methods vary from state to state, according to a study in the journal Pediatrics.

In the study, researchers contacted the vital statistics registrars in each of the 50 states, as well as in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Nearly 57 percent of the registrars were already reporting breastfeeding status on state birth certificates, although the questions used to collect the information were not standardized. While most states use the Standard Certificate of Live Birth (SCLB) breastfeeding questionnaire, six states, New York City, and Washington, D.C., developed their own questions. The study authors recommend that a revised, standardized question be developed, focusing on in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding.

(12-09-08)

During tough economic times, health officials are warning parents against stretching infant formula by adding extra water to bottles. The directions on each can of formula are scientifically and specifically designed for the health of growing babies. Veering from those directions by adding more water to the bottle and diluting the formula can put infants at risk for seizures and respiratory failure. ABC Action News in Tampa, Fla., recently reported a story about a 5-month-old boy being hospitalized for water intoxication due to watered down formula.

If you or someone you know is experiencing financial hardship that is affecting the nutrition of your children, take action immediately to get help. The following organizations offer assistance to families with children:

Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
www.fns.usda.gov/wic

Food Stamps and Other Nutrition Programs
www.ssa.gov/pubs/10100.html

Feeding America (America's Second Harvest Food Bank)
http://feedingamerica.org/foodbank-results.aspx

You can also contact your pediatrician or local hospitals for more information.

(12-09-08)

Winter weather putting the kibosh on the continuance of your summer and fall postnatal fitness plan? Leave the whining to the new little one, and brave the colder climate in the name of reclaiming your pre-baby body!

According to Lisa Druxman, founder of the country's largest postnatal exercise program, Stroller Strides, a change in season doesn't necessitate a personal health hiatus – it simply requires making a few adjustments to your regular workout regimen.

"Don't be tempted to curtail your get-fit plan just because conditions are less-than-favorable," says Druxman. "Beyond physical fitness is psychological fitness, and many people – especially new moms – can be susceptible to winter blues. Getting out of the house and exercising is a great way to increase both endorphins and energy."

Encouraging moms to maintain their workout routine, Stroller Strides offers indoor classes during the colder months at most of the program's more than 800 nationwide and Canadian locations. Environments ranging from shopping malls and science centers to roller rinks and professional soccer arenas provide perfect weather-proof spots that both facilitate Mom's fitness endeavors and stimulate baby's short attention span.

When Stroller Strides classes aren't in session, moms can make further fitness strides with the following cold-weather health tips from Druxman:

Q: How do I prepare myself and my baby for a cold-weather workout?
When preparing for a cold-weather workout, always remember that you will warm up – Baby will not. Dress in layers, as your core temperature will rise as you exercise – wear a moisture-wicking fabric closest to your body and warmer layers on top. Don't forget gloves and mittens for both you and Baby.

Q. Do eating habits change during the cold months? How can I avoid overeating?
Colder months are tough for healthy eating, as less fresh fruits and vegetables are available, and we tend to go for comfort foods. Do your best to look for lighter alternatives and ways to alter winter recipes. During the holiday season, remember to eat plenty of healthy snacks and drink a lot of water prior to parties so you aren't hungry. Load your plate with salads and veggies to keep portions smaller for fatter fare, and choose your favorites, rather than one of everything. Finally, knowing that you will be eating more than usual, try your best to get in longer exercise sessions to make up for increased caloric intake.

Q. How can I fit in fitness during the holiday season?
Even when you don't have time for a traditional workout routine, do your best to fit in fitness in the corners of your life. When driving, do kegels (pelvic floor lifts) and abdominal bracing (contraction of the abdominal muscles). If you're holiday shopping, retract your shoulder blades repetitively to improve posture and change the way you hold your shopping bags. Modify your grip so that it's more like a bicep curl – this way, your purchases can act as weights instead of weighing you down.

(12-09-08)

Miss Gigi-Mae™ Ladybug Tether System (patent pending) is a portable, easy-to-use tethering system with six retractable legs to keep your baby's favorite items off the floor and always within reach. Miss Gigi-Mae makes it easier than ever to keep your child happy and content with his/her favorite items and helps Mom and Dad avoid playing the game of "baby fetch" over and over again.

Miss Gigi-Mae can easily be attached onto your baby's car seat, stroller, highchair, booster seat, carrier, exersaucer, bouncy seat, swing and baby backpack as well as on a shopping cart or restaurant infant chair. Four of the six tethers on Miss Gigi-Mae end in oversize reverse safety clips to prevent pinching; the two rear tethers end in Velcro loops for added versatility to hook items of all shapes and sizes, including your baby's favorite toys, books, sippy cup and snack containers onto one loveable little ladybug.

Miss Gigi-Mae is the only portable tether system that allows you to hook up to six items onto your baby's equipment. Velcro belly straps make It easy to add and remove Miss Gigi-Mae from one piece of baby equipment to the next, making it especially valuable when on-the-go with children.

Miss Gigi-Mae products have undergone extensive testing to ensure their high quality and caliber. Testing proceeds at three points during production on every product – at the beginning, middle and end – to ensure only safe, quality materials are used consistently throughout the process. Miss Gigi-Mae products are tested for lead and other harmful compounds, mechanical hazards and flammability. Crash testing is also conducted to ensure Miss Gigi-Mae is safe to use in the car.

Learn more about the iParenting Media Award-winning Miss Gigi-Mae Ladybug Tether System at www.MissGigiMae.com. (11-25-08)