Tag: maternal health
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Should You Be Concerned About PFAS During Your Pregnancy?
Read more When it comes to maintaining a healthy pregnancy, there’s a lot on your mind—what to eat, what to avoid, and everything in between. One topic that’s been gaining attention lately is the presence of so-called “forever chemicals”—scientifically known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These substances are found in various products and our…
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Understanding Glucose Screening and Glucose Tolerance Tests During Pregnancy
Read more Hey there, mamas! If your healthcare provider has mentioned scheduling a glucose test, you might be wondering what that entails. This routine screening is designed to check for gestational diabetes (GD), a condition that can affect about 10% of pregnancies, as noted by the CDC. But don’t worry; if managed well, you can…
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Breast Cancer During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more Discovering you have breast cancer while pregnant can be incredibly overwhelming. However, it’s important to know that there are safe treatment options available for both you and your baby. Understanding the Connection Between Pregnancy and Breast Cancer Risk Many women worry about the relationship between pregnancy and breast cancer. While it’s a rare…
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Pica During Pregnancy: Understanding the Signs, Causes, and Treatment
Read more If you’re experiencing unusual cravings during pregnancy, especially for non-food items, you might be dealing with a condition called pica. This phenomenon can be puzzling and concerning for many expecting mothers, so let’s explore what pica is, why it happens, and how it can be managed. What is Pica? Pica is an eating…
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Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks
Read more When it comes to drinking wine during pregnancy, many expectant mothers have concerns about what is safe to consume. Transitioning to pregnancy can be challenging, especially when it comes to modifying your diet and beverage choices. If you’re someone who enjoys unwinding with a glass of wine at the end of the day…
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Discovering Natural Sources of Probiotics During Pregnancy
Read more Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that reside in everyone’s intestines. Common types include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces. While many pregnant women opt for probiotic supplements, there’s a growing interest in sourcing probiotics from natural foods. So, what are some foods that can provide these beneficial bacteria? Natural Sources of Probiotics Yogurt: One of the…
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Understanding Fifth Disease and Its Impact on Pregnancy
Read more Fifth disease, caused by the human parvovirus B19, is a contagious illness that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as through bodily fluids. During pregnancy, the incidence of Fifth disease is relatively low, affecting about 1 in 400 expectant mothers annually in the United States. Most women who contract…
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Sickle Cell Disease and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more If you’re pregnant and have sickle cell disease, it’s natural to have questions about how your condition might impact your pregnancy and whether your pregnancy could lead to complications. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate this journey. Understanding Sickle Cell Disease in Pregnancy Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder where…
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Fibromyalgia During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Read more If you’re navigating the challenges of fibromyalgia and pregnancy, you’re not alone. Many women face unique hurdles with this condition while expecting. However, it’s important to remember that having fibromyalgia won’t affect your baby’s health. Here’s a friendly guide to help you manage your symptoms and enjoy a healthy pregnancy. Understanding Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia…
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Understanding Pregnancy Blood Tests
Read more When it comes to confirming a pregnancy, blood tests play an essential role. Not only do they help verify pregnancy, but they are also a standard part of your initial prenatal care, typically conducted during your first appointment. Additionally, your healthcare provider may suggest further blood tests to monitor any potential complications, such…