As I approached the much-anticipated moment of my first child’s birth, the conversations around delivery methods swirled with overwhelming intensity. When my midwife initially asked me how I envisioned my birthing experience, my instinctive reaction was clear: “I don’t want an epidural.” This seemingly resolute stance stemmed from a combination of my fear of needles
Pregnancy
The postpartum period is a transformative phase in a woman’s life, marked by the transition into motherhood, the joys of nurturing a newborn, and the physical demands that accompany this new role. Despite the profound changes a woman undergoes during pregnancy and childbirth, postpartum nutrition often falls by the wayside. New mothers frequently find themselves
As cannabis gains legal acceptance across many states in the United States, discussions concerning its use are increasingly extending to pregnant women. A recent analysis conducted by researchers at the University of Georgia revealed that among a surveyed group of 4,338 pregnant mothers, 5.7% reported consuming marijuana while pregnant, primarily for alleviating symptoms like nausea.
In recent years, noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) tests have gained popularity among expectant parents seeking early insights into the health of their unborn child. These tests, which typically analyze a few vials of maternal blood, offer a less invasive alternative to traditional diagnostic methods such as amniocentesis. While NIPS tests primarily aim to detect chromosomal
When embarking on the journey of pregnancy, many women find themselves overwhelmed with new priorities that often overshadow personal style. Numerous factors, including health concerns, prenatal appointments, and preparations for a baby, can take up a significant portion of one’s mental bandwidth. However, maintaining a sense of personal style can have profound effects on mental
The recent announcement by Covis Pharma, the manufacturer of Makena, regarding the voluntary withdrawal of this progesterone injection from the market is a pivotal moment in the discourse around preterm birth prevention. After a series of studies, including a critical advisory panel review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that deemed Makena ineffective, the
Motherhood is often romanticized in media and everyday conversation, yet the journey is filled with complexities and challenges that can leave lasting marks—physically and emotionally. Having undergone a C-section, I have an indelible reminder of both the beautiful miracle of life and the struggles that accompany it—my scar. This story is not merely about a
The transformative experience of becoming a parent is often accompanied by a plethora of emotions—joy, overwhelm, exhaustion, and a profound sense of love. However, alongside these positive feelings, many couples encounter significant challenges, particularly in the realm of intimacy. For many, the transition to parenthood marks a turning point, not only in their daily lives
The transition into motherhood is a profound experience that forever changes a woman’s identity. Each birth brings about a sense of fulfillment and purpose as a new life enters the world. The day I welcomed my first son, I felt joy radiate through me, a sensation that hinted at the possibility that this was my
Childbirth is an intensely personal experience, shaped by a multitude of factors including health considerations, emotional readiness, and individual preferences. For those of us navigating a physical disability, the journey may involve additional complexities. I found myself standing at this crossroads, confronted with the decision of how to deliver my child. After extensive discussions with