Parents often put parental controls for their kids and keep an eye on their media consumption at all times but often neglect their own usage by a mile. When you are telling kids to not do certain things and then proceed to do it yourself, you send a hypocritical message to kids. They start believing that you are making up rules and they are not that important, because if they were you yourself would’ve been following it! While you may not think that your media usage should be your kid’s business, a new study shows that it has a direct effect on your kids. Not just their mentality, but also what your screen hours show them that the internet is a safe place where they can explore whatever content they want. It is very easy for kids to override the age rule and get access to mature content, which lead to them consuming these videos and media from an early age! A new study looked at how parents' phone use might affect whether their kids see inappropriate content. Researchers found that when parents spend a lot of time on their phones and don't have clear rules about media use at home, their kids are more likely to watch R-rated movies or play video games meant for adults. The study talked to over 10,000 kids aged 12 and 13.

What Did The Study Reveal?

A recent study published in the journal BMC Pediatrics has revealed a potential link between parents' phone habits and their children's consumption of inappropriate content. The researchers wanted to learn more about how parents can help their young teens with media use. They explained that while there's advice for younger kids and older teens, there's not much for this age group. These young teens are in a tricky stage, they're not little kids anymore, but they're not quite teenagers either. The study wanted to see how what parents do and the rules they make affect what kind of content young teens are exposed to.

Parents answered questions about their own phone use, like how often they try to limit their screen time around their kids. The kids also answered questions about how often they watch R-rated movies or play mature video games. The study found that the more time parents spent on their phones, the more likely their kids were to consume mature content. Things like using phones during meals or in bedrooms seemed to be especially linked to kids seeing this type of content.

Why Should Parent’s Mobile Usage Be A Concern?

Experts say it's important for parents to be aware of their own phone habits, because kids often copy what they see. They suggest that parents should "practice what they preach", if they make a rule about no phones at the dinner table, they should follow it too. Experts also recommend that families create a media plan together with clear rules, like limiting screen time during meals and before bed, talking about what they see online, not using screen time as punishment, and using it as a reward for good habits. Basically, the study shows that what parents do with their phones can really influence what their kids are doing online.

How You Can Reduce Your Screen Time?

First, see how much you're using them and set small goals to cut back. Make some areas and times in your house phone-free, like during meals and before sleep, this is a great chance to connect with your family. Turn off notifications you don't need and find fun things to do instead of being on your phone, maybe even things your family can do together. Put your phone away so it's not always tempting and think about why you're picking it up. Tell your family you're trying to use your phone less, and maybe they'll join you! If it's tough, think about taking a break from all screens for a bit. It takes time, so be patient with yourself and enjoy the extra time you have with your family. This not only benefits you but also sets a positive example for your children.

A blood test is considered the first step towards fertility enquiries, but for many, the results might seem like a confusing jumble of numbers and acronyms. Reports sometimes contain terms like AMH, FSH, LH, AFC, and estradiol, which can confuse patients into thinking that a single "abnormal" figure indicates they are unable to conceive.

The truth is more reassuring, and more nuanced. Fertility experts stress that a single test cannot ascertain a person's fertility. Instead, these markers serve as parts of a bigger picture, assisting fertility specialists in comprehending reproductive health and suggesting the best course of action when necessary.

Fertility tests are guides, not verdicts

The idea that a single blood test can determine whether a woman would naturally become pregnant is one of the most widespread myths. Age, egg quality, ovulation, sperm health, uterine health, lifestyle, and underlying medical issues are some of the factors that actually affect fertility.

Although diagnostic markers offer useful information, they must always be interpreted in conjunction with the couple's overall reproductive profile, clinical history, and ultrasound results.

Understanding the ovarian reserve 'AMH'

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is perhaps the most talked-about fertility marker today. It is produced by small follicles present in the ovaries. AMH reflects ovarian reserve, which identifies the estimated number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. High AMH indicates larger ovarian reserve, whereas lower levels suggest fewer eggs. However, it can neither measure egg quality nor guarantee the ability to conceive naturally.

Many women with low AMH can still achieve successful pregnancies, especially if they continue to ovulate regularly. Similarly, women with high AMH are not necessarily more fertile; elevated AMH levels in women also mean Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where ovulation may actually be irregular. For fertility specialists, AMH is useful in predicting the number of eggs that are likely to respond to ovarian stimulation medication, based on which they customize IVF treatment.

FSH determines ovarian function

Our pituitary gland produces Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and this hormone helps in stimulating egg development.

Usually, the second or third day of the menstrual cycle is when FSH is measured. If ovarian reserve is reduced, higher-than-normal levels may imply that ovaries need more stimulation to mature eggs. From cycle to cycle, the FSH levels change.

LH and the ovulation story

FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH) cooperate to control ovulation. The ovary releases a developed egg in response to an increase in LH. LH levels may be disproportionately greater than FSH in PCOS-affected individuals, which can lead to irregular menstrual periods and ovulation. Instead of using LH alone, fertility specialists assess it in link with other hormone markers.

Estradiol and AFC: Completing the picture

An indicator of ovarian activity during the menstrual cycle is estradiol (E2), a type of estrogen generated by growing follicles. Combined interpretation is crucial since elevated early-cycle estradiol levels can occasionally conceal an elevated FSH.

The Antral Follicle Count (AFC), which is done via a transvaginal ultrasound, is another crucial evaluation. AFC gives an additional indication of ovarian reserve by counting the number of visible tiny follicles in the ovaries.

Indeed, the combination of AMH and AFC provides a more thorough insight than any test by itself.

Fertility evaluation isn't just for women

Female hormone testing frequently receives greater attention, whereas male fertility contributes to roughly half of all infertility issues. A semen screening remains one of the most significant and cost-effective tests, measuring sperm count, mobility, and morphology. When necessary, additional hormonal or genetic tests might be suggested.

Era of self-diagnosis

After getting a test report, many people search the web for quick answers, but those numbers without proper medical context from a specialist can cause unnecessary tension. The fertility markers depend on a variety of factors, some of which include: age, weight, menstrual history, prior pregnancies, medications, hormonal status, and lifestyle. Therefore, understanding parameters like “low” or “high” online may create confusion for individuals. Instead, consult a fertility specialist to decode the report.

(Dr Rubeena Zainab, Senior Consultant - Reproductive Medicine, Milann Fertility and Birthing Hospital, Bengaluru)

For new mothers struggling with breastfeeding, artificial intelligence can offer something doctors often cannot: an answer at 2 am.

But a new report is raising concerns about what happens when those instant responses replace professional medical advice.

A national survey commissioned by Orlando Health found that 51% of women aged 18 to 44 would first turn to an AI chatbot, social media platform or search engine if they had an urgent breastfeeding question.

Only 29% said they would first contact a doctor or lactation consultant, while 21% would turn to family or friends.

The findings highlight a growing challenge as new parents increasingly use AI to navigate pregnancy, caring for their infants and breastfeeding.

Is AI Advice Always Reliable?

AI can quickly explain clinical terms, suggest possible causes for a problem and provide general breastfeeding information. But it cannot examine whether the baby is actually getting enough milk.

“There are certain questions that can't be answered by AI,” said Erynne Bowers, M.D., a pediatrician with Orlando Health Physician Associates.

Bowers said roughly one-third of mothers who come to her with breastfeeding concerns have already received inaccurate advice from AI. Some of the misinformation involves recommendations about how much milk a baby should consume or how frequently the baby should be fed. The expert says that's where generic advice from AI can become misleading and dangerous.

Also read: Could Light-Controlled Nanobots Revolutionise Breast Cancer Treatment? Indian Researchers Explore The Possibility

Feeding Pattern Is Different For Every Baby

A baby's nutritional needs depend on several factors, including age, birth weight, growth trajectory, medical history and feeding efficiency.

Doctors also examine the baby's weight gain, hydration, urine and stool patterns, alertness and developmental progress. They may observe the baby's latch, tongue movement and coordination between sucking, swallowing and breathing. These assessments cannot be done by an AI chatbot.

A baby may spend a long time at the breast but transfer very little milk. Another may feed for a shorter period but feed efficiently. A generic feeding schedule therefore cannot explain the entire problem.

Also read: Breastfeeding Can Help Reduce Mothers' Risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Breast Cancer and More

How Incorrect Advice Can Create A Cycle?

Experts warn that telling a mother to feed less frequently, for example, could potentially reduce the baby's calorie intake while also lowering breast stimulation.

The report also describes the experience of Florida mother Emily Hunziker, whose newborn son began losing weight despite her efforts to breastfeed exclusively.

She worked with a pediatrician and lactation specialist, used a combination of pumping, bottle-feeding and supplemental formula while continuing to support her breastfeeding goals. Her son is now thriving and growing up well.

Also read: Breastfeeding Vs Mixed Feeding: Which Is Right For Your Baby? Experts Explain

Should New Mothers Stop Using AI For Breastfeeding Advice?

It does not mean that new mothers should completely stop using AI. AI can be useful for understanding medical terminology, preparing questions for a doctor or finding reliable resources. But it should not become the final decision-maker when an infant's nutrition or growth is at stake.

Warning signs like poor weight gain, unusual sleepiness, dehydration, persistent vomiting, breathing difficulties, severe pain or a sudden drop in feeding require medical assessment from a doctor rather than an automated generic advice.

Relying excessively on an AI chatbot for answers may delay seeking a physician's help which could, in turn, delay clinical examination and treatment.

Excessive consumption of cow’s milk has been linked to severe iron deficiency in young children. A Queensland specialist has also warned that in the past two years, three toddlers died after developing extreme iron-deficiency anaemia.

According to ABC News, the children were drinking more than 1 litre of cow’s milk a day.

Queensland Children’s Hospital haematologist Dr Sally Campbell said the toddlers were otherwise healthy but developed severe anaemia before infections like viral illnesses took a toll on their health.

“They were drinking more than one litre of cow’s milk per day. This resulted in them developing extreme iron deficiency anaemia and sadly, dying,” Campbell said.

She explained that severe anaemia leaves children with too few red blood cells to deliver enough oxygen to vital organs. A seemingly routine viral infection can therefore become severe and even fatal.

“One small virus can unfortunately be life-threatening when you’ve got a chronic anaemic state,” Campbell said.

Why Can Excessive Cow Milk Consumption Cause Iron Deficiency?

Also read: Should Children Take Protein Powders? A Dietitian’s Perspective

Consuming large quantities of milk can reduce a child’s appetite for iron-rich foods like meat, legumes and iron-fortified foods.

Dairy can also interfere with iron absorption. In growing children, whose iron requirements are high, this can gradually push iron reserves to a dangerous low level.

Research from the ORIGINS Project, a large longitudinal birth cohort following around 10,000 Western Australian children, has found widespread low iron levels among young children.

Researchers from The Kids Research Institute Australia, Edith Cowan University, Curtin University and The University of Western Australia published their findings in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health in 2025.

Using the World Health Organization’s ferritin threshold, the researchers found iron deficiency in 15% of one-year-olds and 20% of three-year-olds.

Professor Desiree Silva, co-director of ORIGINS and Professor of Paediatrics at The University of Western Australia, has described the problem as a “hidden health crisis”.

She said iron is essential for immunity, oxygen transport and healthy development, while low iron can contribute to tiredness, lethargy, poor sleep and difficulty in feeding.

Also read: Study Links Excessive Screen Time To Poorer Body Image in Teens With Skin Conditions

How Much Cow’s Milk Is Too Much?

Queensland health guidance recommends no cow’s milk as a drink before 12 months. From one to five years, children should have no more than about 500 ml, or two cups, a day.

Importantly, this does not mean parents need to eliminate milk from a toddler’s diet. The concern arises when excessive intake of milk replaces a balanced and nutritious diet.

Campbell said the problem is preventable and urged parents to adopt better dietary habits for toddlers.

Parents must also look for signs of low iron levels in their children. Symptoms like persistent tiredness, poor appetite, development concerns or unusual changes in behaviour should not be simply dismissed as fussy eating or a toddler phase. Severe iron deficiency can develop quietly, making early assessment and treatment important.