Ah, a full moon—there's something magical about it.

We know it can help create the perfect setting for romance. But might the moon also affect our health? Many people think so.

One popular idea is that maternity wards tend to fill up during a full moon. Not true, according to research.

Scientists have also debunked the notion that rates of accidents and suicides go up when the moon is full.

The alleged link to mental illness goes back to ancient times. In fact, the term lunatic comes from the Latin word for moon.

And while fictional creatures seem to go crazy and howl at the moon, studies show it does not affect the mental health of real people.

There is some evidence, though, for the old idea that the moon can trigger seizures. Scientists have documented more emergency room visits for seizures around a full moon.

And there may also be a link to sleep. One small study found people got about 20 minutes less sleep on full moon nights and felt more tired in the morning.

In general, though, the notion that the moon controls our health is just lunar lore. Still, it's fun to look up and wonder, even if science is pulling us back to earth.