An immense amount of testimony can be produced on both sides of this question. The weight of evidence, however, is rather in favor of these so-called "maternal impressions." In other words, it seems possible that under very unusual conditions the mother may affect her unborn child because of some powerful impression made upon the system. Yet hundreds of thousands of mothers become frightened and undergo the most terrible experiences without having the slightest unfavorable effect upon the child; while other mothers give birth to deformed children when they have been surrounded with every comfort and have not been disturbed in any way. No one understands this subject, and but little can truly be said about it. =Hereditary Influences Are Strong.=--On the other hand, we all know how strong is heredity. Therefore it is only acting the part of ordinary wisdom for every pregnant woman to avoid all disagreeable things possible and cultivate everything that is good and true. =Early Training Necessary.=--When we come to study the theory of heredity, we see that it is impossible for any mother to completely change her course of life simply during pregnancy and have a corresponding effect upon her child. To produce the best results on the offspring it is necessary that the mother should have cultivated her own mind and body through many years of training. =Were Cured Early in Life.=--Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound has done untold good to the present generation. There are hundreds of thousands of children living to-day who are healthy and happy because years before they were born their mothers, when young girls, took this grand household medicine. They were restored to health, a great load was lifted, and things again looked cheerful and bright, and in this condition a happy baby was born into the world. =If you do not understand your ailments write to Mrs. Pinkham, Lynn, Mass. Her advice is free and always helpful. Such letters are strictly confidential and answered with the help of women only.= CHAPTER XI. PROBLEMS IN NURSING. =Diet During Nursing.=--Many mothers believe that it is necessary to eat only certain articles of diet while nursing their baby, for fear the child may be given the colic. While this may be true in certain cases, yet it is the exception. As a rule, mothers may eat nearly everything digestible without fear of affecting the baby. =Exceptions.=--Sometimes raw fruits or acid substances may change the milk in some way so that it will disagree with the baby, but as I have said, this is not the rule. Occasionally, however, when such articles of diet as onions, cauliflower, and cabbage have been eaten, these will impart such an odor and taste to the milk that the child will refuse to nurse.