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Thyroid Problems in a Pregnancy
A basic understanding of the thyroid function and test results is needed to understand thyroid problems during a pregnancy. The thyroid makes hormones referred to as T4 and T3; both are vital to the healthy functioning of the mom’s body and the growing baby. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), produced by the pituitary gland, tells the thyroid just how much T4 and T3 to produce. Blood tests measure TSH, T4 and T3 levels, although typically only the close monitoring of TSH and T4 is necessary. Although the effects of thyroid problems left untreated in pregnancy can be severe, it is important to know that–with close monitoring and treatment–most women with thyroid problems in pregnancy have healthy babies, according to the March of Dimes.
Are Sonograms Bad for Your Baby?
Sonograms, commonly referred to as ultrasounds during pregnancy, provide an invaluable look at your growing baby. But the use, especially for moms who must have several during pregnancy, does bring about questions and concerns regarding the safety of this medical technology. To put your mind at ease, know that after more than five decades of use, the normal use of sonograms for medical purposes has never been associated with any harmful effects on fetuses, according to the American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine (AIUM). However, the AIUM does concede that there is always a chance of learning about adverse effects in the future. Therefore, non-medical use of sonograms should be used with caution.
Megan’s Law? It’s Only Half the Battle
Spend some time in any PTA meeting, Mommy & Me group, or even a playdate with friends and it isn?t long before the conversation turns into a worried discussion about Megan?s Law and the sex offender information that parents can now readily access with just a few clicks of their computer mouse. Parents everywhere are feverishly checking these websites, sometimes weekly or even daily, to see if a registered sex offender resides nearby. Unfortunately, there are a few flaws in this perceived ?safety net? that well-intentioned parents should know. Don?t get me wrong, I am a HUGE proponent of Megan?s Law and the information it provides. I strongly believe that once a sex offender has been released back into the community, the public has the absolute right to know their whereabouts. But? focusing solely on this component of child safety can do a serious disservice to our kids, IF we stop there.