Hot Topics

Below you will find our current Hot Topic listings. We hope you find them as useful as we do. If you have any questions about these items or would like to suggest a future Hot Topic please contact us online.

National Mental Health Month

According to kidshealth.org, nearly 10-25% of new mothers report experiencing some level of postpartum depression (PPD) during or after the birth of their child. PPD is a serious but treatable mental health problem. If you think you are experiencing postpartum depression, call your doctor immediately.

For more information click here.

Mom, Take Care of Yourself!

Whether you are four weeks pregnant or forty, taking care of yourself has never been more important. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital before, during and after pregnancy. Some habits to consider are: physical activity, prenatal vitamins, a well-balanced diet, good oral hygiene and sleep. These healthy lifestyle choices may help:

Lower the risk of pregnancy complications, preterm births and birth defects.
Protect against breast and other cancers.
Help you cope with physical discomforts and labor pains.
Reduce anxiety, boost mood, and protect you from depression.
Promote a healthier heart, increased energy levels and healthy development of your baby.
Build endurance and strength for labor and delivery.
Lead to easier, less complicated labor and quicker recovery from birth.

For more information on how to stay healthy, read the Happy Birthday Baby Book One.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

Every 10 seconds a report of child abuse is made. Child abuse has no boundaries. It crosses all ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and all levels of education. In 2011 more than 11,000 children were found to be neglected or abused.

There is no excuse for child abuse. Below are resources that will help you be aware of child abuse.

Visit www.HealthyFamiliesNow.net to learn about the health, safety and well-being.

WIC

The purpose of the Arkansas WIC Program (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children) is to improve the nutrition of eligible pregnant women, moms, infants and young children to age 5 by:

Directly supplementing their diets with foods rich in nutrients they need
Providing nutrition education and counseling
Breast-feeding support
Referrals to other services

Click here to learn more about WIC. Contact your local health unit to apply for WIC.

I’m Pregnant!

Congratulations! Having a baby is one of the most exciting yet difficult journeys you will ever take. Begin by seeing your doctor regularly during pregnancy.

The things you do or don’t do will make a big difference in your baby’s health. While no one can be sure you will have a perfect baby, here are some things you can do: