Pregnancy & Newborn Care Blog

Gretchen Moody, RN, IBCLC, Lactation Coordinator

Can you believe it’s here? The day that your baby is born has finally arrived! Friends and family are excited and eager to meet the new addition to your family. Grandmas can’t wait to get their hands on that sweet baby and they will…in time.




 

Kim S., Physical Therapist, The Women's Hospital - Urogynecology & Pelvic Rehabilitation

Let's talk about physical challenges of pregnancy. From conception to the birth of your baby, changes in your body are happening from head to toe. These changes are due to hormone levels adjusting, loosening of ligaments and connective tissue, enlargement of breasts and abdomen, and the growth of your baby fighting your organs for space. As a result of these changes, your body must adapt! During the adjustment periods there are some common symptoms that pregnant women appreciate. Some of these symptoms are normal and some are not. Some of the symptoms we can control on our own and some may need special attention.

Kelly C., RN, Clinical Nurse Manager NICU  

No parent wants to see their child in peril. Yet, sometimes newborns require a stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This can be a scary experience. So, the more parents know about what to expect, the better they will be able to manage their little one’s stay.
 

An OB/GYN, gastroenterologist and a pharmacist—all women, all pregnant during COVID—share their stories of being vaccinated during their pregnancy.
 

Andrea shares her story of having COVID-19 while being pregnant with twins. 

Dr. Fitzpatrick, CMO, MD, MBA, FACOG, Dr. Kuper, MD, FACOG, and Dr. Griffin, MD

Dr. Fitzpatrick, Dr. Kuper, and Dr. Griffin discuss the COVID-19 vaccine and whether or not it causes fertility issues. 

Taylor F., RN, MSN, Perinatal Center Program Coordinator at The Women's Hospital

Taylor shares the ABCs of keeping your baby safe. 

Carrye D., MD, Women's Health Care P.C.

An OB/GYN physician with Women's Health Care P.C. shares her perspective on the COVID-19 vaccine. 

The Women’s Hospital
 
Breastfeeding is a natural way to feed babies, and provides infants with nutrition that cannot be matched by formula. Many people are aware that breastfeeding has health benefits for baby; however, moms who choose to breastfeed their babies enjoy many long and short-term benefits as well.

Dr. Sarah Rust, Pediatrician, Deaconess Clinic Baseline

Bringing home a new baby has always been a nerve-wracking time for most families. Previously, families would worry about their new baby catching the flu, RSV or other viral infections during their first few weeks of life, but having a child during the COVID-19 pandemic has added to those fears and raises many new questions. 

Christine H., LGC, Tri-State Perinatology at The Women's Hospital

Genetic counseling is defined as the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical,

psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. 

Jennifer D., RD, Manager of Nutrition Services and Dietetics at The Women's Hospital
 
Taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid before and during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects of your baby's brain and spinal cord. The CDC suggests that you start taking folic acid supplements daily for at least one month before you become pregnant and continue during pregnancy.

 

Anita H., MSN, RN, CNS, Professional Development Specialist at University of Southern Indiana 

Babies should receive a pulse oximetry screen before hospital discharge to look for critical congenital heart defects.

Educator at The Women's Hospital 

If your baby requires special care due to prematurity or other conditions after birth, The Women’s Hospital sets a standard of excellence in providing the highest-quality care to our communities’ tiniest babies.
 

Fertility Counselor

Are you thinking about starting fertility treatments, but are wondering how to pay for them? 
You are not alone. Infertility affects 1 in 8 couples in the United States. 
 

Mary R., RN, Lactation Consultant at The Women's Hospital

There are many reasons that a mom may be unable to breastfeed directly and needs to use a breast pump to remove her milk instead. Maybe mom has a baby with a medical issue that doesn’t allow her to nurse the baby. Regardless of the reason, it is important for a mom to remove milk during the times her baby would normally feed. This will help her body continue to make milk. To protect her milk supply, a mom should pump as often as her baby would nurse. Please use these helpful tips when using a breast pump for milk expression.

Lacee W., RN, Maternal Care Advisors at The Women's Hospital 

There are 3 strongly encouraged medications your baby should receive within just a few of hours of birth. Don’t worry, though, immediately after delivery, you will be able to hold your baby skin-to-skin and have uninterrupted eye contact before these medications are given.
 

The Women's Hospital Business Office 

Being hospitalized or undergoing a medical/surgical procedure can be stressful.  Medical bills often add to this stress.  At The Women’s Hospital, it is our goal to simplify the billing process as much as possible.

Taylor F. Perinatal Center Program Coordinator at The Women's Hospital 

It is important for parents and caregivers to educate themselves on safe sleep practices for babies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, creating a safe sleep area for babies can help reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths. 
 

Maternal Care Educator at The Women's Hospital

It can be hard to believe as a new parent that - in a blink of an eye - the tiny human we hold in our hands will become a fast moving, curious, and adventurous crawler or toddler.  Lucky for us, we have a few months after recovering from our sleep deprived state to work through baby proofing our home in preparation for this fast moving little being.  
 

Licensed Clinical Psychologist at The Center for Healing Arts and Wellness Services

Pregnancy—check
Delivery—check
Baby is home—check
Why do I feel so lost and overwhelmed?

Gretchen M., RN, IBCLC, Lactation Team Lead

Many mothers have questions and concerns about the safety of breastfeeding and/or pumping if they have tested positive for COVID-19 or they are awaiting their test results.
 

Spencer Kuper, MD, Tri-State Perinatology at The Women's Hospital

May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month. Many may recognize the diagnosis, sometimes called toxemia, as the cause of a dramatic turn of events in the popular PBS drama “Downton Abbey.”

One of the main characters, Lady Sybil Crawley, is in labor with her first child. The family’s doctor explains that Sybil has preeclampsia and is in danger. He recognizes the signs of the complication; she has protein in her urine, her ankles are swollen, and her baby is small.

Carrye Daum, MD, Women's Health Care, P.C.

An OB/GYN physician with Women's Health Care P.C. shares her experience with infertility, not only as a provider, but a patient. With elective medical procedures on hold across the US,  everyone is  wondering "when will this be over," but infertility patients are wondering "when can we finally become parents?" 

C. Brennan Fitzpatrick, CMO, MD, MBA, FACOG
Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist at Tri-State Perinatology at The Women’s Hospital

The Women's Hospital has been working hand and hand with the health system to ensure there are resources in place to care for patients.

Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

At the end of April each year, we observe National Infertility Awareness Week. Often times, as a fertility specialist (reproductive endocrinologist), we are asked when people should consider fertility care and treatment, if referrals are necessary and what to expect. Below are answers to a few of the most common questions we get with regard to fertility care and treatment.

Daniel Griffin, MD, Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

Endometriosis is a common condition in which part of the uterine lining or glands are located outside of the uterus. Typically the glandular tissue is located in the pelvis and abdomen. The most common symptoms of endometriosis are painful menstrual cycles, pain with intercourse, infertility or an ovarian mass. Learn about the most common treatments for Endometriosis.

Terri T., MS, CTBS, CEO, Life Line Stem Cell

The birth of a child is truly a remarkable gift—a gift of life, promise, and hope.  As you cherish this precious new gift in your life, consider the ways in which you can extend your joy to others.  There are decisions you can make now to enable this amazing gift of life to help others to improve their quality of life.
 

Gretchen Moody, RN, IBCLC, Lactation Coordinator

 

Gretchen M., RN, BSN, IBCLC, Lactation Team Lead

The cells, hormones, and antibodies in breastmilk help protect babies from illness. This protection is unique and changes every day to meet your baby’s growing needs.

Every parent breathes a sigh of relief when their newborn belts out a strong, powerful cry.  Some parents are caught off guard, however, by how much their baby will cry in the first few months of life. 

Veronica M., Infection Prevention and Employee Health at The Women’s Hospital

Why should we immunize? The CDC recommends that all children receive their immunizations according to the recommended schedule by age two. 

Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for women and men trying to achieve pregnancy. The following are tips and advice for optimal fertility for couples who have made the decision to start a family.   
 

Hospitality Concierge at The Women's Hospital 

It’s almost that time – everyone is looking forward to the Easter Bunny coming!! It will be here before we know it. The kiddos are wondering what they will get in their baskets.  As parents, you can keep it fun, but easy! Create traditions in your family that you can enjoy each year as you look forward to holidays all year long. Here are some age appropriate Easter basket ideas for your little bunnies and chicks at home. 

C. Brennan Fitzpatrick, CMO, MD, MBA, FACOG


A mother’s heart is a precious thing. For all of us, the heart is the most recognizable symbol of health and vitality. For an unborn child, a mother’s heart is its lifeline- the engine that drives the pregnancy. 

Cindy Futrell, RN, Maternal Care Advisor

There are so many ways to tell someone they’re going to be a grandparent. You can wrap up an ultrasound picture for your parents to open, give them a personalized t-shirt or do what my son did and surprise them at work and then expect them to carry on the rest of the day like normal!

Valerie T., NP, Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

PCOS is one of the most common or hormonal problems affecting women. It affects 5-18% of women.

Carrye D., MD, Women's Health Care, P.C.

Tips and tricks to keep in mind when strategizing time management with children..

 

Lorien A., MPT, OCS, High Pointe Therapy Manager

Infant massage is a great way that you can help your baby with fussiness and bond at the same time! Our licensed and highly trained therapists at High Pointe Therapy use infant massage to treat common causes of discomfort. 

Carolyn Burns, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

Eating a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains is great for our health, but can sometimes lead to bloating, gas, and other abdominal discomfort. Learn tips on making healthy food choices while still being able to go out in public.
 

Jennifer D., RD Dietetics and Nutrition Manager at The Women's Hospital

When your baby’s doctor says it is time to introduce new baby foods, you may consider whether you will feed your baby store bought fruits and veggies from the jars as most of you probably were, or if you will try making homemade baby food. With homemade baby food, you can ensure that you know exactly what is going into your baby’s body. But, there are proper steps you should take to make sure the food they are eating is safe!

Pediatrics & Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Morganfield

I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time to be sick with the flu.  A week or more of serious body aches, coughing, fever, etc. is not how I want to spend my time. Be prepared by getting your flu vaccine before flu season starts! 

Lorien A., MPT, OCS at High Pointe Therapy at The Women's Hospital

Once you are home from the hospital, your daily routine will most likely revolve around feeding your baby. How do you know if your baby wants to eat or not?  If you know what to look for or “feeding cues,” can make this easier to figure out when baby is hungry.

Ron Pyle, MD, Director of Neonatal Transport and Outreach Education

What are Group B streptococci (GBS)?  What is Group B streptococci infection? 

Mary R., Lactation Consultant at The Women's Hospital 

Being home with your baby for the very first time can be both exciting and unnerving. You have left the protective cocoon of the hospital. I had a huge stack of discharge paperwork and a fond farewell from the nurses and staff. I thought to myself…I am expected to know how to do all of this and take care of a baby!?! The answer is yes. 

Lorien A., MPT, OCS

Pregnancy can cause many discomforts to a woman’s body. Consulting with your doctor is an important first step when suffering from pain. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy for managing your pain.

Wendy S., RN, BSN, CLC, Maternal Care Educator at The Women's Hospital

Making arrangements to get kids to and from school, attending school functions (these happen much more than I remember as a child), preparing meals, yard work on the weekends, projects due for school…and the list goes on…

Christy H., RN, BSN, Maternal Care Educator at The Women's Hospital

The Women’s Hospital has classes for everyone, whether you’re expecting your first child or just need a refresher on certain skills. All of our classes are taught by experienced professionals in their area of expertise. Therefore, you are sure to receive the most up-to-date, accurate information on the topics you are most interested in.
 

Elizabeth W., PCA - OBED

When you are selecting a photographer to capture your sweet baby’s milestones, there are many things to look for. Everyone wants the best quality of pictures, but we also want someone who is gentle with our baby. Choosing the right person for this can be a challenge.


 

Christine H., Genetic Counselor at Tri State Perinatology

Knowing one’s family medical history allows a person to take steps to reduce his or her risk. You should address any concerns you have about your family history with your physician or another qualified healthcare professional such as a genetics counselor.

Lorien A., MPT, OCS at High Pointe Therapy at The Women's Hospital 

Positional Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome) - How do we help and prevent it?

Valerie Topper, CNM, Boston IVF at The Women's Hospital

70 pills, 46 shots, 112 vaginal suppositories, numerous vaginal ultrasounds, and 2 years and 4 month’s time…


 

Kusum Pradhan, MD, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrician

Bringing a new baby home is exciting and sometimes stressful. You want to do what’s best for your baby but how are you supposed to know what that is? What’s normal and what’s an emergency? Get tips from a pediatrician and a mom.
 

Kusum Pradhan, MD, Deaconess Clinic Pediatrics

Don’t believe everything you read on the internet, especially when it comes to children's health information and parenting advice. That’s what I tell my patients and their parents.
 

Courtney Hoppenjans, Heart Patient, Deaconess Health System

Courtney Hoppenjans, Heart patient, shares her 2014 story about pregnancy induced heart failure. Learn about why women should listen to their bodies and how the amazing teams from The Heart Hospital and The Women's Hospital helped save Courtney and her baby's life.
 

Constantine Scordalakes, MD, Women's Health Care P.C.

The postpartum period—the days and weeks after giving birth--involves many emotional and physical changes for you as a new mother.  It also involves learning how to care for your newborn and how to function with the new demands at home. Adequate rest, good nutrition, and support from family and friends are crucial during the first few weeks after delivery to allow you to rebuild your strength.


 

You are in Babies R Us. Your husband has the scanner gun because, let’s be honest, the only way you could get him to join you was by promising he could play with the scanner gun. The haunting memory of registering for your wedding gifts 9 months prior is coming back. You are overwhelmed. You have never had a baby before! How are you supposed to know what you need?!

Laura Lackey, BSN, RNC-OB, CPLC Bereavement Coordinator, The Women's Hospital

October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month.  The loss of a pregnancy or baby is a life changing event.  No matter the gestational age of the little one, you may hurt physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.  The loss of a little one is not something families “just get over.”  Families grieve and mourn and eventually learn to live a “new normal” life. 

Carrye Daum, MDOB/GYN, Women’s Healthcare P.C.

The flu shot has traditionally been an important part of a pregnant woman’s prenatal care. This year, the flu shot has become a controversial issue due to a recent study and proposed association between the flu shot and miscarriage.  Learn more about the study and flu vaccinations so you are knowledgeable and informed.

 

Amanda Bohleber, MD, Medical Director, Deaconess Clinic

A doctor—and mom—shares her tips for choosing the right care at the right time at the right place.

Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

Your doctors’ appointments are an important and valuable time to connect with your doctor, share your perspective and information, and learn from your doctor’s expertise.  The best appointments happen when patients are very prepared.
 

Capri Weyer, MD, Deaconess Clinic Gateway Pediatrics

Baby safety is important for all new parents, but it doesn’t just stop there. Who else should stay up-to-date on the topic of keeping babies safe? Grandparents, older siblings, aunts, uncles and any other caregiver who may babysit or have a baby at their house can all benefit from these tips.

Katie Thomas, NP, Tri-State Perinatology at The Women's Hospital

What is a high risk pregnancy? There are many conditions that can complicate a pregnancy, classifying it high risk. A high risk pregnancy can include problems with the mother or problems with the baby.

The Women's Hospital

You've been preparing for the last several months for the arrival of your new baby.  The nursery is ready.  You have everything you will need in order to care for the new baby.  Delivery went well and you and baby have returned home from the hospital, but something just doesn’t seem right.
 

Jenna Fettes, wife and mother of two boys

A week prior to the scary evening when I knew something wasn't right, we found out we were having a boy. We already decided on the name Asher, as I love names that have special meaning and are more unique. God truly guided us to the perfect name because Asher means "happy, blessed, fortunate," which truly defines him! 

Maternal Care Advisor at The Women's Hospital

Your baby’s movement can be an indicator of fetal well-being. Many doctors encourage mothers to track their baby’s movements starting at 28 weeks of pregnancy. Monitoring movement also helps mothers to bond with their babies and learn their activity patterns.