Birthing Briefs: Some Suggested Cautions for Pregnant Women

Abstract

Researchers continue to find new ways to protect the indicates that for women infected with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, antibiotic treatment reduces the incidence of harmful effects this infection can have on the fetus. In addition, researchers have concluded that women's breast milk can be a source of lead exposure in infants. Maternal use of calcium supplements, however, can decrease the risk of lead transfer by reducing the mobilization of skeletal mineral stores. MARY BETH FLANDERS-STEPANS is an Assistant Professor inJournal of Perinatal Education, 8(3), 36-37; toxoplasmosis, infections, lead poisoning, breast milk.