Dr. Lori Gore-Green | Women's Health Professional

Dr. Lori Gore-Green's Portfolio of Experience as a Women's Health Professional

Unexpected Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

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Expectant parents often expect the usual symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea and backaches. However, there are some unexpected side effects of this process.

 

Some things can be unexpected and even frightening for pregnant women. Unfortunately, doctors or family members often do not discuss these physical effects. So, here are unusual pregnancy symptoms that most people would never consider.

 

Sinus Issues

Nose bleeds and stuffiness is common during pregnancy and can be caused by increased blood flow through one’s nose. According to studies, the prevalence of nose bleeds during pregnancy is higher than that of non-pregnant women.

 

You can treat these conditions with natural remedies, such as using a Neti pot or a humidifier. However, if these don’t work, consult a doctor or midwife. Aside from being inconvenient, stuffiness and nose bleeds are rarely severe during pregnancy.

 

Trouble Sleeping

During the first and third trimesters, the effects of pregnancy can zap one’s energy. Some people also experience insomnia during this period.

 

Although insomnia can be an early sign that one is pregnant, it can also occur throughout the pregnancy. It can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty falling asleep or not being able to get back to sleep after being awakened.

 

It’s essential to keep in mind that insomnia can come and go. Although it can appear in the first and third trimesters, it can also occur throughout the pregnancy.

 

Digestive Issues

Is it a sign of pregnancy that you’re experiencing gas and belching? The hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause your gastrointestinal tract to spin, and these symptoms can appear in the first and third trimesters. To minimize these symptoms, avoid consuming food that can produce gas.

 

Skipping processed food and consuming healthy and nutritious food can help minimize these symptoms. Holding gas can cause pain and make one feel embarrassed if they have to deal with it often.

 

Having a plan can also help minimize these symptoms. Some people avoid food altogether and go to the bathroom. Others try to limit their exposure to certain foods.

 

Abdominal Pain

One of the most common conditions women experience during pregnancy is pelvic girdle pain, caused by the growth of the uterus and the stretching of various tissues.

 

This condition can appear on the belly button or the abdominal skin. It can be referred to as belly button pain, which can be achy or intense when touched. It usually happens during the later stages of pregnancy as the belly grows. 

 

A midwife or doctor can also help you find relief. Some of the most effective ways to relieve pain are using a belly support band, taking a bath, and getting a light massage.

 

Constipation

Another condition that can affect a woman’s body during pregnancy is constipation. It can appear in around 11% to 38% of pregnant women.

 

The rise in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy can cause your gastrointestinal tract to slow down. This condition can make it hard for you to pass stool.

 

Some of the most effective ways to relieve constipation are drinking plenty of water, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising. However, if none of these can provide relief, you should consult a doctor or midwife.

 

Sensitive Gums

Due to the hormonal changes that can affect a woman’s body during pregnancy, her tender gum tissue can swell and bleed. It can also cause her to feel bloated and have a metallic taste in her mouth.

 

If oral problems, such as those caused by pregnancy gingivitis, are already present, they can be exacerbated during pregnancy. Having regular dental cleanings and brushing can help keep these conditions under control.

What to Pack for the Birth of Your Child

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When preparing for your child’s birth, you must have the necessary supplies to ensure that both the mother and the baby are comfortable and calm. Having the right gear can help make the experience as stress-free and relaxing as possible.

 

You must also have the necessary supplies to ensure the mother and the baby are comfortable and calm. To help you plan and pack the hospital bag, here are some suggestions for packing a hospital bag and what you should bring to the facility when your child is due.

 

Comfortable Clothing

Although the hospital usually provides a traditional gown, the mother might want to bring something loose that she can wear without being too attached. Wearing an open-back dress may be more convenient for epidurals. Other options include wearing an oversized cardigan over an open back.

 

Relaxation Tools

Some things you can bring that will make your partner’s experience even more relaxing include a playlist you have already chosen, a birthing statue, and a massage lotion. These items can help make the entire experience more comfortable. You can also set up photos around the room and have a birthing statue that your partner can use to focus on during labor.

 

Many people also bring essential oils and a baby diffuser to help keep the environment clean and comfortable during birth. Many recommend doTERRA’s aromatherapy oils, which can help create a relaxing atmosphere in the hospital. Another idea is to bring along positive affirmation cards, which can help the nurses identify helpful phrases for the mother.

 

Yoga Ball

Although hospitals typically provide a yoga ball, you can still bring your own if you’re in labor. Also referred to as a birthing ball, these large, portable devices can be purchased from sporting goods stores. These can help open the pelvis and relax the perineum.

 

The balls can also encourage the baby to move, and babies need movement to get moving. The gentle rocking motion can help with this.

 

Basic Hygiene Products

Even though hospitals are generally sterile, you and your partner will still need personal hygiene products. The father-to-be will need toothpaste, toothbrushes, mints, and gum.

 

Having fresh mouth smells can help keep the laboring woman’s breath fresh. In addition to the usual Dopp kit, you and your partner can bring several extras, such as a bottle of coconut oil and nipple cream. The hospital will also have pads and underwear, which can be filled with additional products.

 

New mothers will likely want to use nipple cream and can use witch hazel on the pads after birth to help with their healing properties.

 

Hair Ties

If the woman has long hair, a pair of elastics can be used to keep it in place during the hot and heavy labor. She may also want to keep it out of her face after giving birth.

 

 

3 Things To Expect In The First Year Of Parenthood

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Even if parents think they’re prepared, there will still be something that they will not be able to anticipate during the first year of parenthood. This is, if not the most challenging job in the world. There are tons of books, articles, and advice that will help parents get through their first year, but chances are they’ll never truly be prepared. Of course, that doesn’t mean it hurts to try. Here are a few things you can expect in the first year of parenthood.

 

It’s More Expensive Than You Think

One of the biggest factors that parents face when it comes to dealing with kids is their unpredictable behavior. For instance, they may love a certain type of food you give them one day, but refuse to eat it the next. Chances are they’ll outgrow their clothes quicker than you anticipated, or destroy the clothes that do fit, and you’ll have to go and get new clothes almost regularly. And let’s not forget about diapers. All of these things can lead to unexpected expenses that are hard to anticipate. While we usually assume our children will be expensive, it’s safe to assume they’ll be even more expensive than that, so it’s a good idea to have an emergency fund for when you have to make purchases you never would have imagined.

 

You’re Going To Lose A Lot Of Sleep

Similar to baby expenses, most parents assume that they’re going to lose out on a lot of sleep in the first year of raising their baby. The fact of the matter though is that these things tend to be far worse in practice than our brains thought they would be. You thought you wouldn’t get much sleep? You’re somehow going to get even less than that. As kids get older, this doesn’t change much. They’ll still have issues falling asleep, wetting the bed, causing noise, or staying up late. Expecting parents should try to get as much sleep as they can now, as they’re not likely to get much more for a long time.

 

Mistakes Will Happen

Most parents struggle with the fear of making mistakes during the first year of parenting. There are many obvious errors that parents make, such as forgetting to feed or dropping the baby, but chances are there will be someone in your life who may try to micromanage all of your parenting decisions. This can make it easy to feel like you’re doing something wrong. Although it’s always possible to make mistakes, it’s also important to remember that these are learning experiences and that they should not happen again. Accept that you won’t always get things right and that you will grow from those experiences, and everything will turn out fine.

Tips For Traveling While Pregnant

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With the COVID-19 pandemic slowly falling behind us, many people have begun traveling again. If you’re pregnant and planning a trip, you may not know how to approach the situation. Yours and the baby’s health are incredibly important during this time, and while traveling is totally okay and even encouraged, it’s best to be prepared for anything, and make sure you’re even okay to travel somewhere. Here are a few tips for safe travel while pregnant.

 

Be Cleared For Travel

One of the most important things to consider before traveling is consulting your doctor before you travel. Give your doctor all of the necessary details, and they should let you know if you’re okay to go on your trip, while also giving you any helpful information that may make you feel more comfortable. It may also be wise to look for doctors and hospitals within the vicinity of where you’re traveling, in case there are any complications and you need to quickly see a doctor.

 

Be Picky With Your Destination

Before you travel, be aware of the seasonal weather patterns that may affect your trip. For instance, if you’re planning on visiting Naples in Florida during the middle of July, it’s important to know that high temperatures and humidity levels often occur in the “miserable” or “oppressive” range. Doing some research can help you find a better weather destination. Some of the best places to visit during this time are Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and Virginia Beach.

 

Bring A First Aid Kit

First aid kits are always welcome on trips, even when you’re not pregnant! Having a few supplies with you in case of injury or illness is a great way to increase the quality of your trip. You don’t need to bring your entire medicine cabinet, but bandages, hand sanitizer, and medicine for issues such as bloating and nausea will always be handy and can make or break a trip. Being pregnant is tough, so you want to be prepared when you’re thousands of miles away from home.

 

Don’t Overwork Yourself

If you’re traveling, you probably want to see as many sights as you possibly can. After all, you may never get to see this place again for the rest of your life! While that’s great, it’s also important you don’t overwork yourself. Be sure that you’re aware of your energy levels throughout each day, as well as outside factors such as the weather or the number of people at a given destination during your trip. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you relax, and have a good time.

What Are The First Things You Should Do When Discovering You’re Pregnant?

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Being pregnant can be an exciting time. If it’s your first time being pregnant, it might be even more exciting. It can also seem scary, and overwhelming. You’ll likely be experiencing feelings you’ve never experienced before, and you might not know what to do, or how to handle the situation. These feelings are all totally normal. In this blog, we’ll discuss a few of the important things you should do when you first discover you’re pregnant. Some of these things may seem very obvious, and some you might not initially think of. Without further ado, let’s dive in.

 

Call Your OB/GYN

You should always call your OB/GYN to let them know that you’re expecting. Their protocols may vary depending on when they want you to come in for an appointment, but they should be able to provide you with important information, such as changes to your lifestyle and medications. Having an OB/GYN who will guide you through your journey from conception to motherhood is a vital step in this part of life and can make a huge difference in how your pregnancy goes.

 

Start Tracking Symptoms

During your pregnancy, your body will undergo various changes, and you might experience some symptoms that are different from those that you’re used to. It’s important to keep track of these symptoms and talk to your doctor about them so that they can fall within the healthy range. No pregnancy is the same, so if you experience symptoms differently from a previous pregnancy or from a friend’s pregnancy, it’s not necessarily a reason to panic. There are apps you can get on your phone nowadays that can help you track these symptoms as well if that’s your thing.

 

Think About Your Nutrition

Now that you’re pregnant, it’s important to remember that you’re eating for two. Getting a healthy and balanced diet is always important but it’s even more important now. Talk to your doctor about the types of vitamins you should be taking, as well as if there are certain foods or drinks you should avoid or focus on. Typically you’ll want to avoid unpasteurized dairy and juices, and you’ll want to lower your caffeine intake if you’re a big coffee drinker. Other things such as over-the-counter medications are also something you be cautious of, as some are no longer safe to use once you discover you’re pregnant. Ultimately, your best bet is to discuss these things with your doctor so you know exactly what you can and can’t have.

 

Take a Breath

Last but not least, it’s important to take a deep breath and just relax. You’re pregnant. You’re going to have a baby. That’s a wonderful thing, and it’s also scary. You’re going to feel a wide range of emotions over the next nine months, and likely well beyond that. As I mentioned, these are all perfectly normal feelings that most mothers go through. Remember to lean on your support systems when you need them and to take care of yourself, and you’ll be fine.

Tips For Pregnant Women To Beat The Summer Heat

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Being pregnant isn’t easy. Being pregnant in the summertime? Even more difficult! It’s hot out there, and it’s important that expecting mothers know how to handle that heat in order to keep themselves and the baby safe. The easiest answer would be to stay indoors, hopefully with air conditioning, as much as possible. Unfortunately, that’s just not always possible, as we’ll always have things that bring us out into the sweltering summer heat. If you’re expecting this summer, here are a few ways you can stay safe when you go outside.

 

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

One of the most important steps you can take to keep yourself safe during the hot weather is to drink enough water. Although hydration doesn’t mean stopping drinking any liquid, it’s important to remember that caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and soda, can make you more susceptible to heat. For every caffeinated beverage, you need to drink one glass of water. However, if you’re active or in the sun, you should drink even more. It’s also important to remember that sugary drinks such as Gatorade are okay, but should never be substituted for water.

 

Keep Cool

Finding ways to keep cool in the summer heat is very important, and there are luckily many ways to do so. One great way is to go for a swim. Swimming will not only cool you down, but it can take some of the weight off of your sciatic nerve. You’ll also want to wear breathable fabrics so you don’t sweat too much. Be wary of sunburn as well, since pregnant women tend to be more prone to getting burnt than those who aren’t. If you begin to feel weak or dizzy, your best bet is to get indoors to someplace cool, where you can sit down.

 

Stay Indoors

While it’s just not possible to stay indoors the entire summer, the safest thing you can do for yourself and the baby is to find indoor alternatives for as many things as possible. Let’s say you’re having your baby shower in the middle of the July or August heat. Instead of hosting an outdoor BBQ, opt for something indoors so you can be safe and comfortable during the entire party. If you have no choice but to be outside for some reason, it’s smart to try and bring some form of shade. Wear hats that provide shade, or bring an umbrella if you can. If it’s an all-day outdoor event, consider getting a pop-up tent that you can relax under.

The Best Maternity Clothes Brands Of 2022

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Today, there are a variety of fashionable maternity clothes to choose from. Not that long ago pregnant women had few options when it came to fashion. With the rise of more fashionable maternity brands, it’s now possible to find clothes that are designed to serve up serious style during your pregnancy, instead of not being happy with the clothes you’re wearing during those 9 months. Here are some of the top brands in maternity fashion.

PinkBlush Maternity

One of the best places to get maternity clothes on a budget is PinkBlush. The online retailer offers a wide range of fashionable maternity dresses and tops, as well as an extensive selection of plus-size options. With an endless selection of cute outfits, this site is the ideal place to go for a wardrobe refresh.

A Pea In The Pod

With a wide variety of styles and options, A Pea In The Pod is the ideal place to start your maternity wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for a simple baby shower dress or a comfy loungewear outfit, this online retailer has something for everyone. Besides designer brands such as 7 for All Mankind, A Pea In The Pod also features the latest collection from Made with Liberty Fabric.

H&M

H&M is known for its wide variety of fashionable maternity clothes. From jackets to basics, this store has something for everyone. The pieces are made using high-quality fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, and jersey. The company is also committed to sustainability, and its garments are made from a minimum of 50% recycled materials. In 2022, it was named one of the Best of Pregnancy’s award winners for the best maternity jeans category.

Storq

One of the most important factors that women need to consider when it comes to creating their own stylish outfits is the availability of reliable basics. With a variety of styles and options, Storq has something for everyone. Its limited collection features button-up shirts, comfy joggers, and a cardigan that will keep you warm and comfortable wherever you go. Aside from being able to offer a variety of styles and options, Storq also has a wide selection of sizes that are inclusive of all body types. This website also replaced all of its photos with images of real mothers-to-be who are nursing, pregnant, or postpartum.

Rent the Runway

Since it’s known for making high-fashion accessible, Rent the Runway has become a go-to for finding the best maternity clothes. Not only does the site carry nursing-friendly clothes, it also has a variety of pregnancy and maternity dresses. Its stylists can help you find the perfect outfit for every trimester.

Common Pregnancy Myths Debunked

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You often hear a lot of things about pregnancy throughout your life, and you may even believe some of the things you hear, whether they’re true or not. If you haven’t been pregnant or been the partner of someone who is pregnant, you may not have had a reason to discern fact from fiction. Once you’re put into that situation though, it becomes important to understand what’s a common pregnancy myth, and what isn’t. This can help you be as safe as possible, while also living your pregnancy to the fullest. Here are a few common pregnancy myths, debunked.

 

You Can’t Exercise While Pregnant

Getting active is a good practice for you and your baby’s health. If you’re already familiar with your routine from before pregnancy, and you’re not worried about developing any new problems, then continue with it after a discussion with your doctor. However, avoid doing new vigorous activities such as jumping, excessive stretching, and holding your breath, to name a few. For optimal health during pregnancy, you should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity five days a week. If you were not active before becoming pregnant, try gentle exercises such as walking or low-impact exercises.

 

You Can’t Drink Caffeine While Pregnant

Although it’s been advised to avoid caffeine during pregnancy, recent studies have shown that it’s safe to consume moderate amounts of it as long as the proper precautions are taken beforehand. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women can safely consume up to 200 milligrams of caffeine a day, about a 12-ounce cup of coffee. More than 200 milligrams can potentially penetrate the placenta barrier, and it can cause miscarriages.

 

You Can’t Have Sex While Pregnant

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it’s perfectly safe to have sex while you’re pregnant. It’s not physically possible to penetrate past the vagina, so there’s no danger to your unborn baby during those long, 9 months. If you choose to have sex later in your pregnancy, you may have mild contracts that are commonly known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These may seem uncomfortable, but they’re actually a normal occurrence and will eventually pass.

 

You’ll Suffer From Morning Sickness While Pregnant

While having morning sickness during pregnancy isn’t a myth, having it only in the morning is. The fact of the matter is that it’s possible to experience nausea and vomiting at any point of the day when you’re pregnant, and over 70% of women experience it at some point during the day due to periodic hormonal changes. Morning sickness tends to calm down after the first trimester, but if you’re still struggling with it in the second trimester, try eating frequent small, dry snacks such as crackers or dry cereal, as opposed to skipping meals.

The Best Books For Expecting Mothers In 2022

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Although it’s an exciting time, pregnancy can also be filled with questions and concerns. Some of the most common changes that women experience during their pregnancy are unexpected symptoms such as morning sickness. Having a good understanding of what to expect during this time can help keep you and your baby feeling great and well, and a great way to do this is to read a pregnancy book!

 

Whether it’s your first, second, or third pregnancy, a book that’s geared toward your needs should be the best choice. It should also be able to provide you with the necessary information to make informed decisions. Take a look at some of these great options to help you better prepare for your pregnancy.

 

Nurture – Erica Chidi

Nurture, by certified birth doula and CEO of the company LOOM Erica Chidi, is a book that walks you through the various stages of your pregnancy and the postpartum period. It features recipes and exercises that will help keep you going. The book also features a birth letter exercise that will help you reach your goals. It’s a great addition to any pregnancy book.

 

The Girlfriend’s Guide To Pregnancy – Vicki Iovine

This book is written in a way that’s brutally honest and doesn’t take a lot of time to explain what’s happening to you. It’s also written with a reassuring tone. The book is typically considered to be very realistic without being too frightening or gory.

 

Criticisms of the book often say that the author is too focused on the way she looks while pregnant. On the contrary, what makes the book such a great choice is how brutally honest Iovine is in her very blunt conversation about the emotional insecurities we go through when pregnant. She’s able to help them feel less pressure to achieve the perfect pregnancy.

 

Ina May’s Guide To Child Birth – Ina May

Gaskin, who is a long-time activist, has written several books that criticize the medical establishment. Ina May’s book criticizes the way certain procedures are performed and how they are often unfair. In a recent interview, she said that she doesn’t try to make mothers feel guilty about having a medical birth.

 

Regardless of whether or not you agree with May’s take on the medical side of childbirth, it’s still important to read the stories of women who have given birth. Ina May’s book can help you feel more positive about labor. She also talks about the various physical sensations that women experience during their pregnancy.

What To Know About Having A Baby At 40

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The number of women having babies after 40 has increased significantly since the 1970s, according to the CDC. The agency noted that the number of first-time mothers aged 40 to 44 more than doubled between 1990 and 2012.

 

While women are typically told to have children before the age of 35, many women aren’t ready at that point in their life for a myriad of reasons, such as focusing on their career or using fertility treatments. Having a baby at 40 is possible, but it’s good to understand the benefits and risks that come with it.

 

Benefits

Having a baby later in life can provide many advantages over having children when you’re in your 20s or 30s. For one, it can allow you to establish your career at a younger age so you’re ultimately able to spend more time with your family later down the line.

 

Another benefit is that not everyone meets their partner at a young age, or maybe you’re not ready for commitment. When having a baby, you want to make sure that you’re raising them with the right person and that doesn’t always happen until later in life. There has also been research that shows how having a baby later in your life can lead the child to have better educational outcomes, as well as health benefits for the mother such as reduced cognitive decline and longer life spans.

 

Risks

The common sentiment has often been that having a baby at 40 is considered high risk. While this is still the case, modern technology has made the entire process much safer than it was in the past. Your doctor will likely keep a close eye on you and the baby, looking at complications such as high blood pressure or birth defects such as down syndrome.

 

Another risk to be aware of is miscarriage. Miscarrying is always a risk when pregnant, but those chances tend to rise as you get older. Part of the reason this risk tends to rise when you’re over 40 is that you’re more likely to have chronic conditions than when you were younger. Conditions such as thyroid disease or diabetes can complicate pregnancy and potentially result in miscarriage among other issues.

 

Of course, it’s important that you talk to your doctor about any and all risks if you’re 40 and are thinking of having a baby. They can provide you with all of the important information and help you figure out the best approach for your situation.