Leaving more time from birth of baby to clamping and cutting of the cord allows more blood to transfer to the baby and helps prevent anaemia, and as cord blood contains valuable stem cells, could reduce the risk of many illnesses. Full story can be read on the Daily Telegraph website

Statistics obtained by FSID (Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths) show 25 babies have died over the last two years as a result of sleeping with a parent or carer on a sofa. Full story on the Daily Telegraph website

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 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

Plastic feeding bottles containing Bisphenol A have been withdrawn in the USA, and there have been calls for UK manufacturers to do the same. Evidence suggests Bisphenol A interferes with healthy growth and body functions.

Children born by Caesarean have an 80% increased risk of developing asthma by the age of 8, compared to vaginal birth, Dutch researchers have found. One reason could be the priming of the immune system after birth, as well as not being exposed to microbes as soon as those born vaginally. Read more on BBC health news