A New Life tells you all you need to know about conception and pregnancy, labor and birth, and the care and growth of your child in the first year. It is based on the belief that the more straightforward, up-to-date information parents have at their disposal, the more they will be able to understand and enjoy this remarkable time. More than just a consideration of the anatomy and physiology of the developing child, A New Life looks at the social, emotional, physical, and psychological effects of parenting. The book presents information on such topics as home versus hospital birth, natural versus medicated delivery, and breast- versus bottle-feeding. Also examined are the father's role in raising the child in those crucial first months and the early warning signs that can signal possible infant illness. The editors have considered the recent developments that have had an impact on childbirth and infancy, including AIDS and its implications for sexual reproduction, new birthing methods, disease during pregnancy, the rise of single parenting, changes in the law that have affected the construction of cribs and children's toys, and the most modern medical developments.