Home pregnancy tests have become more accurate in the last decade, but you should always check with your healthcare provider if the results are negative and you think you might be pregnant. In the case you do need an additional pregnancy test, your doctor is able to perform a blood...
How much weight you should gain during pregnancy depends on how much you weigh before becoming pregnant. Experts typically advise that if you are: Underweight, you gain 28 to 40 pounds Healthy weight, you gain 25 to 35 pounds Overweight, you gain 15 to 25 pounds Obese, you gain...
What is a “gentle” or “family-oriented cesarean?” Anyone who has had a traditional cesarean section, or C-section, can tell you that the mechanics of the surgical procedure can distract from the celebration of bringing your baby into the world. During a traditional C-section, the mom and child are frequently separated...
Doctors generally recommend that you avoid using hot tubs while you are pregnant. During your first trimester, an elevated core body temperature could increase your risk of certain birth defects. Throughout pregnancy, women are more likely to faint, and fainting can be exacerbated hot tubs, which can cause your blood...
Yes, however it is important for women with lupus to consult their rheumatologist prior to getting pregnant. In addition, having a pre-conception consultation with a high risk doctor prior to pregnancy is important for women with significant chronic diseases, such as lupus. Women with lupus are at higher risk for...
Although some women can experience spotting, bleeding, and/or minor discomfort in their lower abdomen while ovulating, many may have no symptoms during this time. It is important to understand your cycle and when you could be fertile, or are most likely to become pregnant. Your cycle starts with...
What is the glucose screening test? The glucose screening test, which is performed around the 24 to 28 week mark of your pregnancy, measures levels of sugar (glucose) in your blood. Although you are not required to take this test, it is recommended by The American Congress of Obstetricians and...
Yes, bikini waxes are considered safe during your pregnancy; however, if you are in your second or third trimesters you should avoid doing any activities that require lying on your back for long periods of time because it can cause lightheadedness or even fainting. Read more: Can lying on your back hurt...
Headaches are common in pregnancy. Tension-type headaches – low grade, mild headaches – are the most common kind of headache both in general and during pregnancy. Migraine headaches are common as well. Women with frequent headaches outside of pregnancy are more likely to have headaches during pregnancy. For some women,...
Receiving an epidural is very safe; however there are side effects for all medications. In certain cases, side effects, though short-lived, may include a drop in blood pressure or itching. Rarer side effects include a spinal headache (a severe headache that may require further treatment) and an extremely small chance...