Health Library

Maternal and Fetal Testing Overview

Many tests and procedures are available to keep track of the health of both you and your baby. Many of these pose little or no risk.

Maternal Nutrition and Breastfeeding

People who are breastfeeding should eat a well-balanced, varied diet and drink enough liquids. Read on for more details.

Maternity Leave

The length of time given for a paid maternity leave of absence varies among companies. Some women extend their maternity leaves by taking additional weeks of unpaid leave.

Meal Planning for Children with Diabetes

It's important to learn about correct meal planning when your child has diabetes. The type and amount of food your child eats affects their blood sugar levels.

Measles (Rubeola) in Children

Measles (rubeola) is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. It causes a red, blotchy rash. It’s a very contagious illness.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is given in 2 doses--at 12 to 15 months and at 4 to 6 years, or at least 1 month after the first dose.

Meckel Diverticulum

Meckel diverticulum is a small pouch in the wall of the intestine. It’s near where the small and large intestines meet. This condition is the most common birth defect of the digestive system. It happens to about 1 in 50 babies.

Meconium Aspiration

Meconium aspiration happens when a newborn breathes in a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the liquid that surrounds the baby in the womb. Meconium is the baby's first stool, or poop, which is sticky, thick, and dark green. It is typically passed in the womb during early pregnancy and again in the first few days after birth.

Medical Genetics: Chromosome Studies

When a chromosome is abnormal, it can cause health problems in the body. Tests called studies can look at chromosomes to see what type of problem a person has.

Medical Genetics: DNA Studies for Single Gene Defects

To look for single gene defects, healthcare providers look at the DNA to see if it has any errors in it. Errors are known as mutations.

Medical Genetics: Getting Genetic Services for Your Child

Genetic services are programs that help support families and children with genetic disorders.

Medical Genetics: How Chromosome Abnormalities Happen

Chromosome problems usually happen as a result of an error when cells divide.