Women have been giving birth since the dawn of time, and in all that time the childbirth process has engendered more than its share of discussion and debate. In recent years, much of the talk has centered on the use of episiotomies. It seems that every expert has a differing opinion on the subject and every opinion has its merits. So how do you go about figuring out what’s right for you?
Posted in Labor and Birth
No two women will experience pregnancy in exactly the same way, but there are three general stages which all women go through, each one bringing with it specific changes to mother and baby and a variety of possible reactions to go with them.
Posted in General Information
Exercise is important at every stage in our lives, but perhaps never more so than during pregnancy. Not only does prenatal exercise help keep you fit and increase your baby’s health, it can also help you to bounce back after birth. A moderate level of strength and cardiovascular exercise throughout pregnancy can help reduce your risk for complications such as gestational diabetes and pregnancy induced high blood pressure and can help reduce leg cramping and back pain. A good exercise routine will also help to increase your energy and stamina, which will come in handy not just during the rigors of labor but as you settle into your routine as a new mother.
Posted in Prenatal Care
There has been quite a bit of debate over the years about just how early in their development babies can begin to learn. Many doctors and scientists believe that stimulation beginning as early as the third month of pregnancy can have a significant benefit on the development of a child. So if you are concerned about your baby getting a good start in its intellectual and emotional life, you may want to consider what he/she is hearing, feeling or even seeing throughout your pregnancy.
Posted in Postpartum
Placenta Previa – the placenta presenting ahead of the baby – is one of the most worrisome diagnoses that an expectant mother can receive. The condition occurs fairly often and can present as anything from complete previa, where the cervix is entirely covered, to partial or marginal previa, where only the cervix is only partially covered.
Posted in Complications