TORONTO (Reuters) -- Public or private? That's the controversial question being asked about a potentially life-saving practice in which cord blood -- the blood collected from a newborn's placenta and umbilical cord -- is stored for future use.

We have all heard so many depressing stories about young girls having babies in secret and either killing the baby or leaving it somewhere, where it may or may not be found.

Today I read the story of a 17 year old young woman who had her baby alone, at home, after hiding her entire pregnancy for fear her mother would kick her out.

Xochitl Parra gave birth early in the morning, alone at home, and immediately walked (WALKED!!) to the hospital with her brand newborn who had the placenta still attacked in order to receive care.

By Steven Reinberg
EmpowHer's HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, April 30 (HealthDay News) -- Results of a small study show that the electromagnetic field produced by incubators affect the heart rates of newborn babies, Italian researchers report.

Whether these changes in cardiac rhythms have long-term effects isn't known, but they could have implications for premature infants who can spend several weeks or months in incubators, the researchers said.

(HealthDay News) -- Although you can never fully prepare for the experience of caring for a new baby, there are plenty of issues to resolve before baby arrives.

Here are guidelines to help prepare for your newborn, courtesy of the American Pregnancy Association:

* Take parenting classes to help learn basic care, parenting skills and building family relationships.
* Make sure you have the essentials, including a car seat, crib, plenty of diapers, bottles and formula.
* Take a first aid class to learn CPR and other emergency basics.

By Serena Gordon
EmpowHer's HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 27 (HealthDay News) -- The incidence of cystic fibrosis may be decreasing, and a more severe form of the disease caused by one particular gene also appears to be on the decline.

By Serena Gordon
EmpowHer's HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 27 (HealthDay News) -- The incidence of cystic fibrosis may be decreasing, and a more severe form of the disease caused by one particular gene also appears to be on the decline.

(HealthDay News) - Once a newborn's umbilical cord is cut just after birth, the remaining piece needs proper care to prevent infection.

The American Pregnancy Association offers these suggestions:

* Keep the area around the cord clean. Ask your doctor what is recommended -- perhaps cleaning regularly with rubbing alcohol, or just water and a gentle cleanser.
* Make sure the cord area stays dry. Use a newborn diaper with an area cut out to expose the cord. Also, let your baby wear a short t-shirt and a diaper when possible to help air get to the area.