A new review of research suggests such contraceptives may increase the risk of stroke or heart problems.

The study shows smoking, diabetes, obesity and uncontrolled high blood pressure can all alter the risk for heart problems when on birth control pills.

Researchers began to look at the increased risk when a government study showed an increase in heart disease among young women.

Early research on some of the newer hormone therapies is promising, as it appears to slightly lower blood pressure. Doctors say much more research is necessary.

Epidurals and other forms of spinal anesthesia appear to be safer than previously thought.

Researchers looked at complications from epidurals performed at all hospitals in Great Britain, and found the risk for permanent harm was one in 23,000 and lower in most cases.

The risk for permanent injury for expectant mothers was one in 80,000.

Patients undergoing surgery had a slightly higher risk, because they tended to be older and more frail.

If you're looking for a way to prevent a winter cold, try getting eight hours of sleep.

Carnegie Mellon researchers injected more than 150 people with the common cold.

For five days they reported any cold symptoms.

People who got less than seven hours of sleep were three times more likely to develop respiratory illness compared to those who slept eight hours or more.

Experts say a lack of sleep interferes with the body's immune response, therefore it may make it easier for infection to flourish.

A new study warns about improper use of Vick's Vapo-Rub and products like it on babies and toddlers.

Wake Forest University researchers started the study after treating an 18-month-old girl for respiratory problems.

Her parents applied the product directly under her nose.

Researchers say the product appeared to stimulate mucus production and airway inflammation.

Since babies have smaller air passageways, they say this could be especially problematic.

Vick's Vapo-Rub is only intended for children over the age of two, and is labeled as such.