Judy’s Blog

Baby has less risk  but not limited to:

Infections, less visits to the Pediatrician

Stomach viruses, Stronger immune systems

Respiratory infections,  Asthma, Diabetes, Cancer

Obesity, Higher IQ’s

 

Moms who breastfeed have a less risk of but  not limited to:

Ovarian Cancer, Breast Cancer

Quicker weight loss

Postpartum depression

Osteoporosis, and Diabetes

 

 

Group B strep is a bacteria that lives in the vagina and rectum. There many be no symptoms at all and many women carry GBS.   During childbirth the bacteria can be passed to your baby.   Some babies can get very sick from GBS.  Usually your provider will get a vaginal culture at around 36 weeks gestation and if you test positive, you will get antibiotics in labor to protect the baby. Some pediatricians will observe these babies in the hospital for 48 hours following birth.  Know your GBS results.  If your positive and your water breaks, you should go to the hospital so antibiotics can be started. To learn more about GBS visit www.cdc.gov/GroupBstrep

You are probably not thinking about childbirth when getting a tattoo. However, you should not get one on your lower back above your buttocks, as that is the area an epidural would be placed. You do not want a needle inserted into your spine where there is ink.  You also need to be concerned regarding the sterile technique of the artist, as you are putting yourself at risk for infection and hepatitis C.

When you first find out your pregnant, you may be shocked or feel a variety of mixed emotions. This can be a very exciting time, you may feel happy, sad, not ready, or simply not know what to feel. If you have been trying to get pregnant, then of course you will be thrilled and happy.  If you were not trying and it just happened, you may have different feelings. Other factors that may influence how you feel may be the amount of support you are getting from family, friends, and your partner.  You should not feel trapped and know you have choices, It’s your body and your life. Having a child is a major life event that will change your life forever.  Trust and open communication are very important in  healthy relationships.

If you need help with Breastfeeding you can find a lactation consultant in your area. Contact ILCA.org

This is another test done later in pregnancy to assess fetal well-being. This is done by ultrasound and evaluates your baby’s breathing, movement, tone, and amniotic fluid. An ultrasound may also be performed to assess your placenta and baby’s growth.  This test can take about 30 minutes and performed in the office or hospital.

This is a non invasive test done during pregnancy to monitor your baby for fetal well-being. It can be performed in the hospital or office. The monitors are placed on your abdomen and record uterine activity and fetal heart rate.  This test takes about 20-30 minutes.

Your care provider may order fetal monitoring to assess your baby and assess for contractions.  This can be done in the office or hospital. Two monitors are placed on your abdomen to assess uterine activity , the other to assess and record your baby’s heart beat. These monitors may also be used when you are in labor. Sometimes internal monitors are used if deemed necessary by your provider.  Did you know normal fetal heart rate near term is between 110-160 beats a minute?

Labor may start in different ways but for sure these are a few things that you should get checked out.  This also refers to when you’re in your 9th month and without other risk factors. 

1. When your water breaks, it may be a slight trickle or big gush you can’t control. Note time and color and head to hospital.  Your water bag protects you and your baby from infection, when this breaks notify your provider unless directed otherwise.  You may pass a mucous plug days before active labor starts.
2. Heavy vaginal bleeding.  You can have a bloody show or spotting also after a vaginal exam or intercourse, this may not be labor but irritation of the cervix.  Heavy bleeding needs to be checked out right away.
3. Regular uterine contractions, sit down feel your abdomen and time your contractions in front of a clock, when they are every 5 minutes for an hour and they are uncomfortable, go to the hospital or call your provider.
4. Any decrease or change in fetal activity.
5. Other concerns notify your provider not limited to headache, visual changes.
6. See more information on stages of labor under “resources”.