It's Science - Expert-Backed Research For Families - Motherly
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It’s Science

From breastmilk to brain development, researchers are making huge strides in understanding the science of motherhood. Get the scoop at Motherly.

Toddler word mixup

Why do toddlers mix up their words? The explanation is too sweet

From calling Rice Krispie treats "raspberry Christmas trees" to identifying a peppermint as a "hippo," their creative word associations often feel like riddles waiting to be solved.

Updated Dec. 10, 2024
viral-tiktok-child-starts-as-an-egg-in-grandmother

You started as an egg inside your grandmother—here’s the mind-blowing science behind this generational bond

Did you know that the egg that would one day become you was formed while your mother was still developing in your grandmother's womb? 

Updated Nov. 20, 2024
little girl hugging teddy bear stuffie

The emotional cost of being first: Study finds higher rates of anxiety in firstborn & only children

New research reveals how birth order may affect your child’s mental health—here’s what to know.

Updated Oct. 29, 2024
baby doing tummy time on a bed

It’s science: Wanting to ‘eat’ your baby makes you a better parent

Go ahead and nibble on your baby's cheeks. Research says it makes you an even better parent.

Updated May. 25, 2024
pregnant woman pouring herself a glass of water

5 dangers of pregnancy dehydration

This is what can happen when your water level drops.

Updated Apr. 24, 2024
Woman in labor at hospital evidence-backed ways to prevent perineal tears during birth

5 evidence-backed ways to prevent perineal tears during birth

Recent research has changed the way we think about perineal tears and episiotomies.

Updated Apr. 03, 2024
woman holding ultrasound pictures

It’s science: 5 ways to awaken baby’s senses in the womb

Simple ways to excite baby’s senses (and promote sensory development) before baby is even born.

Updated Aug. 07, 2024
woman in an ice bath cold-water plunge health benefits

Can a cold-water plunge improve your health?

Some people swear by the icy immersions you’re seeing all over Instagram. We dig into the science behind the suddenly-everywhere trend.

Updated Feb. 16, 2024
man pouring glass of beer men should avoid alcohol when ttc

Men trying to conceive should avoid alcohol for at least 3 months, research shows

One study finds it takes longer than previously thought for the effects of alcohol to clear.

Updated Jan. 06, 2024
baby sleeping in mothers arms at home - walking then sitting is one way how to get a baby to sleep

It’s science: This 5-minute routine can help your baby fall asleep faster

New research shows a specific (but simple!) routine could help parents get a crying baby to sleep.

Updated Jul. 26, 2024
Mom and baby in wrap carrier

The science behind why your baby stops crying when you stand up

A fascinating study explains the phenomenon.

Updated Jun. 15, 2022
girl writing letter to santa truth about santa myth

Discovering the truth about Santa not as damaging to kids as you might fear

Rest assured, mama: The majority of kids still place full trust in their parents, one study finds.

Updated Dec. 08, 2023
woman in car driving on highway - highway air pollution

Breathing in highway air pollution raises your blood pressure, study shows

HEPA car air filters are the new must-have for commuters.

Updated Dec. 01, 2023
roughhousing: dad tossing child into the air

Here’s why roughhousing with your kids is good for them—really

All the noise and pummeling can be a little alarming. But lots of research suggests that regular roughhousing sessions make for happier, more successful children.

Updated Jan. 07, 2022
postpartum mother feeding baby paid family leave health benefits

Paid family leave has big health benefits for mothers and babies, study shows

From reducing postpartum depression to improving breastfeeding duration, new research confirms just how vital paid leave is for families.

Updated Nov. 17, 2023
close up woman holding a burrito dietary carbon footprint

Swapping beef for chicken in your burrito can have big benefits for the environment, study shows

Simple diet tweaks can mean big reductions in your carbon footprint.

Updated Nov. 15, 2023
woman in bathroom putting toothpaste on toothbrush toothpaste for peanut allergies

A special toothpaste could ease peanut allergies for adults

Immunotherapy toothpaste could be available for kids one day, too.

Updated Nov. 09, 2023
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