The failure of most hospitals to offer what the NHS says is the best test for Downs is resulting in healthy foetuses dying. The most accurate test, the combined test, is only offered by one in three hospitals, while most offer tests which are more likely to provide a ‘false positive’ result. The full story can be read at The Guardian 16 May 2009

A TAMBA (Twins and Multiple Births Association) survey of more than 1,000 women has found that mums of twins or multiples are almost twice as likely to suffer from postnatal depression. Full story at The Guardian 16 April 2009

A new study has linked taking folic acid during pregnancy to a lower risk of serious heart defects. Women are already advised to take folic acid supplements to reduce the risk of spina bifida and related neural tube defects. Read the full story at The Guardian 13 May 2009

New growth charts based on breastfed babies are to be introduced to replace existing charts which are based on formula fed babies. The new charts have been developed following research by the World Health Organisation on healthy growth of breastfed babies around the world. For more visit The Telegraph 6 May 2009

Research carried out in the Netherlands has shown that for low risk women, home birth is as safe as hospital birth. The study found no difference in death rates of babies or mothers in over 500,000 births. Full story at BBC News 15 April 2009 However,the Royal College of Midwives have raised concerns in response that the NHS is geared to hospital births and is not ready to cope with the demand for increased numbers of homebirths, and that more midwives are needed. Nursing Times 15 April 2009