Okay, maybe not a million. But the number of tests you'll be offered from now until the end of your pregnancy is enough to make any mama's head spin. These days, we can screen for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome; we can detect genetic conditions from Tay-Sachs disease to cystic fibrosis. We've got blood tests and DNA screenings. We've got ultrasounds and placenta samples. And that's just during the first trimester.
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Many women dread telling their boss about their pregnancy. Sometimes, it goes very well, other times not so much. A lot of women who work outside of the home aren't eligible for a whole lot of perks. The benefits you can expect are dictated by federal law, state law, and the company you work for/what kind of work you do. CLICK PHOTO TO READ MORE....
If you're pregnant during flu season (October through April...aka now)- your midwife or doctor may suggest getting the flu shot, and she won't be alone. Virtually every major medical organization, including the CDC, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the ACNM recommends the flu vaccine for mamas-to-be. However, vaccines of all kinds are controversial and not all mamas believe in them. There are definitely arguments for both sides.... CLICK PHOTO TO READ UP ABOUT WHAT'S BEST FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Group B Streptococcus (aka Group B Strep or GBS) is a particular type of bacteria- not the same bacteria that causes strep throat, by the way- that exists naturally in the intestinal tract, urinary tract, vagina, and/or rectum. Roughly 25% of women are carriers, although the bacteria may come and go, almost always without triggering any symptoms or health issues.... CLICK PHOTO TO READ ARTICLE
Considering all the ways our bodies change when we're carrying a child- our bellies grow, of course, but there's also the crazy cravings, the heightened sense of smell, the pregnancy glow, and the weeks of stomach-churning nausea- it perhaps shouldn't be surprising that pregnancy also has an effect on the brain.... CLICK PHOTO TO READ FULL POST.
Your pelvic floor muscles provide support for your pelvic and abdominal organs. During pregnancy, the pelvic floor muscles support your expanding uterus and baby. You can consciously learn to strengthen these muscles by contracting and releasing them throughout the day. Kegels can provide an enhances sexual experience for both yourself and your partner. They also help ease the pain of labor.
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