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

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

Staying Safe During a Heat Wave as an Expectant Mother

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Pregnancy is a beautiful journey but can be incredibly challenging during a heat wave. Your body is already working overtime to support your growing baby; extreme heat can add extra stress. Here’s how to stay calm and comfortable while keeping yourself and your baby safe.

Understanding the Risks

Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke can be dangerous for anyone, but they pose an even greater risk to pregnant women. Your body temperature tends to run higher during pregnancy, making it harder to cool down. Overheating can also lead to dehydration, affecting both you and your baby.

Staying Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential, especially during hot weather. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and more if you’re thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks, coffee, and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. You can also try electrolyte-rich beverages like sports drinks in moderation to replenish essential minerals.

Dress for the Heat

Choose loose-fitting, lightweight, and breathable clothing from natural cotton or linen fabrics. Light colors reflect the sun better than dark colors. Remember to protect your skin from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.  

Create a Cool Environment

Spend time in air-conditioned spaces. Libraries, shopping malls, and movie theaters can be great places to escape the heat. If you don’t have air conditioning, use fans to circulate the air. You can also take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, it’s important to rest in a cool place. If you experience severe symptoms like confusion, rapid heartbeat, or high body temperature, seek medical attention immediately.

Avoid Overexertion

Pregnancy can be tiring, and the added heat can make you feel even more exhausted. Avoid strenuous activities, especially during the hottest part of the day. Plan your activities for the more relaxed morning or evening hours if you must go outside.

Eat Light and Frequent Meals

Indulge in refreshing and hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables. Light meals can help you stay energized without overheating. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can make you feel sluggish.

Get Plenty of Rest

Sleep is essential for both you and your baby. Try to create a relaxed and comfortable sleep environment. Use light blankets or sheets, and consider sleeping with a damp cloth on your forehead.

Seek Medical Advice

If you have any concerns about your health or your baby’s health during a heat wave, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and monitor your condition.

Remember, staying calm and comfortable during a heat wave is crucial for your well-being and your baby’s health. You can enjoy a safer and more comfortable pregnancy by following these tips.

 

How to Locate Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Products

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You’re expecting a little miracle. Everything you do now impacts not just you, but your growing baby. This includes your skincare routine. While you might love your usual products, some ingredients may not be pregnancy-safe. But fear not, radiant mamas! There are plenty of fantastic options to keep your skin healthy and glowing throughout your pregnancy journey.

Here’s the lowdown on finding pregnancy-safe skincare products:

  • Know What to Avoid: Certain ingredients are best left on the shelf during pregnancy. These include retinoids (like retinol and tretinoin), which can cause birth defects. Salicylic acid (in high doses) can also be a concern. Avoid products with fragrance or harsh chemicals, as they can irritate your sensitive skin.
  • Look for Gentle Ingredients: Simplicity is key! Opt for fragrance-free and gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens. Hyaluronic acid is a great hydrator, and vitamin C (in moderate amounts) can brighten your skin. Look for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection.
  • Do Your Research: Read ingredient lists carefully! There are plenty of resources online and apps that can help you decipher what’s safe and what’s not. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) website is a great starting point.
  • Less is More: Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive, so it’s wise to simplify your routine. Stick to the basics: cleanse, moisturize, and protect with sunscreen. Avoid harsh scrubs and chemical peels.
  • Consult a Dermatologist: If you have any concerns or pre-existing skin conditions, talk to your dermatologist. They can recommend safe and effective products for your specific needs.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your pregnancy glow:

  • Drink Plenty of Water: Hydration is key for healthy skin, especially during pregnancy. Aim for eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin plump and radiant.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Nourish your skin from the inside out with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods provide essential vitamins and minerals for healthy skin.
  • Get Enough Sleep: Rest is crucial for overall health, including your skin. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help your skin repair and regenerate.
  • Embrace the Natural Glow: Pregnancy can bring a natural flush to your cheeks. Embrace this healthy radiance! You might find you need less makeup during this time.

Remember, a little extra TLC goes a long way. By choosing safe products, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and embracing the natural changes your body is going through, you can keep your skin glowing throughout your pregnancy journey. Now go forth and conquer motherhood with confidence and a radiant complexion!

 

How to Find the Best Pregnancy Care for You

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Congratulations! You’re pregnant. This exciting time is filled with joy, anticipation, and maybe a touch of nervousness. One of the most important decisions you’ll make in the coming months is choosing your pregnancy care provider. This person (or team) will be your partner in navigating the journey of pregnancy, so finding the right fit is key.

Here are some tips to help you find the best pregnancy care for you:

  • Start Early (but not too early!): While you don’t need to call the doctor the second you see those two pink lines, scheduling a prenatal visit within the first trimester is ideal. This allows your doctor to establish a baseline for your health and address any concerns early on.
  • Consider Your Needs and Preferences: Everyone has their own style. Do you prefer a more traditional doctor’s office setting or a midwife-led birthing center? Are you looking for someone who offers natural birthing options or prioritizes pain management? Thinking about what’s important to you in terms of communication style and birthing philosophy will help narrow down your options.
  • Get Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, and even your current doctor for recommendations. Online review sites can also be helpful, but remember to take them with a grain of salt – a few bad reviews shouldn’t outweigh a good fit.
  • Interview Potential Providers: Most doctors and midwives offer free consultations. This is a golden opportunity to ask questions, discuss your birth plan preferences, and get a feel for their personality and communication style. Don’t be afraid to ask about things like their experience with high-risk pregnancies, their approach to pain management, or their availability during evenings or weekends.
  • Factor in Location and Insurance: Convenience matters, especially when you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy. Choose a provider located close to home or work to minimize travel time for appointments. Also, make sure your chosen provider is in-network with your insurance plan to avoid unexpected costs.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

  • The Importance of Feeling Heard: Pregnancy can be a whirlwind of emotions and questions. You deserve a provider who listens attentively to your concerns and offers clear explanations. Don’t hesitate to speak up if you feel rushed or unheard.
  • Building a Comfort Level: Pregnancy is a personal journey. It’s important to feel comfortable discussing everything from morning sickness to birth plans with your provider. Look for someone who makes you feel at ease and respected.
  • Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, the decision of who will care for you and your baby is yours. If something doesn’t feel right about a particular provider, don’t be afraid to keep looking.

Finding the right pregnancy care provider is an important step towards a healthy and happy pregnancy. By considering your needs, preferences, and asking the right questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect match for you and your growing family. So take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy this special time!

What to Know About Epidurals

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Epidurals are a commonly used medical intervention for pain management, particularly during childbirth and certain surgical procedures. Understanding the basics of epidurals can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare. Here’s what you need to know about epidurals:

Administration:

An anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist typically administers epidurals. A needle inserts a small, flexible catheter into the epidural space. The catheter allows continuous medication administration, ensuring a more sustained pain relief effect.

Common Uses:

Epidurals are commonly used during childbirth to manage labor pain. They can also be employed in other medical situations, such as certain surgeries, chronic pain management, and relief from severe back pain.

Childbirth Epidurals:

In the context of childbirth, epidurals are often chosen by women seeking relief from the intense pain of labor. The procedure is generally performed when the cervix is dilated to a certain extent. While epidurals are highly effective in providing pain relief, they may slightly prolong the labor process in some cases.

Risks and Side Effects:

As with any medical procedure, epidurals might have unintended consequences and hazards. A dip in blood pressure, headache, itching, and, in extreme circumstances, nerve damage are a few of these symptoms. Anyone must think about getting an epidural to address these possible dangers with their doctor.

Timing and Decision-Making:

The decision to opt for an epidural is a personal one and may depend on various factors, including the individual’s pain tolerance, medical history, and birth plan preferences. 

Alternatives:

Although epidurals are a standard option for treating pain, there are other options as well. These might include breathing exercises, hydrotherapy, natural pain relief methods, and intravenous painkillers. Making well-informed decisions that align with personal preferences can be facilitated by talking about these possibilities with medical professionals before childbirth.

Post-Epidural Care:

After receiving an epidural, individuals may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the lower body. Following healthcare providers’ guidance on movement and positioning is essential during this time. Additionally, monitoring for potential complications, such as infection at the injection site, is crucial.

Effect on Mobility:

While epidurals are effective in providing pain relief, they may temporarily affect mobility. Some individuals may experience difficulty walking or standing, particularly immediately after the epidural administration. However, these effects are temporary and subside as the medication wears off.

Understanding the basics of epidurals is essential for individuals facing the prospect of labor pain or other medical procedures. Open communication with healthcare providers, consideration of alternatives, and informed decision-making contribute to a positive epidural experience and effective pain management. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance based on individual circumstances.

Pros and Cons of Homeschooling

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Homeschooling has gained popularity recently, with more parents considering it for their children. While it offers distinct advantages, homeschooling also comes with its challenges. 

Pros of Homeschooling:

  1. Personalized Learning

One of the primary benefits of homeschooling is the ability to tailor the curriculum to your child’s specific learning style and pace. This personalized approach can lead to a deeper understanding of subjects and a love for learning.

 

  1. Flexible Schedule

Homeschooling allows families to create flexible schedules. This flexibility can accommodate travel, extracurricular activities, and a better work-life balance for parents.

 

  1. Individualized Attention

Children receive one-on-one attention from their parents or educators in a homeschooling setting. This focused interaction can help address learning challenges and nurture their strengths.

 

  1. Safe Learning Environment

Homeschooling provides a safe and controlled learning environment, reducing exposure to bullying, peer pressure, and other negative aspects of traditional schools.

 

  1. Customized Curriculum

Homeschooling enables parents to select curricula that align with their values, beliefs, and educational goals. This freedom allows for a more comprehensive and meaningful education.

 

  1. Flexibility in Teaching Methods

Parents can choose various teaching methods and materials to accommodate their child’s learning style. This adaptability can make learning more engaging and enjoyable.

 

  1. Strong Family Bonds

Homeschooling fosters strong family bonds through shared educational experiences. It provides opportunities for parents and children to bond and develop a deeper connection.

 

  1. Enhanced Safety and Health

Homeschooling can reduce exposure to health risks, such as contagious illnesses, and safety concerns associated with traditional schools.

Cons of Homeschooling:

  1. Lack of Social Interaction

Homeschooled children may have fewer opportunities for social interaction with peers. This can affect their social development and ability to navigate group dynamics.

 

  1. Limited Extracurricular Activities

Traditional schools often offer extracurricular activities like sports, clubs, and cultural events. Homeschooled children may have limited access to these opportunities.

 

  1. Parental Commitment

Homeschooling requires a significant time commitment from parents, which can be challenging for working parents or those with multiple children.

 

  1. Potential Gaps in Education

Inexperienced homeschooling parents may inadvertently overlook important subjects or teaching methods, resulting in gaps in their child’s education.

 

  1. Lack of Accreditation

Some colleges and universities may have specific admission requirements for homeschooled students, which can pose challenges for higher education.

 

  1. Resource Costs

Homeschooling can incur costs for educational materials, textbooks, and resources. It may also require one parent to stay home, impacting the family’s income.

 

  1. Legal Requirements

Homeschooling is subject to varying legal requirements depending on the state or country. Parents must navigate these regulations and meet educational standards.

 

  1. Potential for Isolation

Homeschooled children may experience feelings of isolation or a lack of exposure to diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

 

Homeschooling offers personalized learning, flexibility, and a safe environment, but it also poses challenges related to social interaction, parental commitment, and potential educational gaps. The decision to homeschool should consider your child’s needs, ability to provide a well-rounded education, and your family’s unique circumstances. Ultimately, homeschooling can be a rewarding experience when approached with dedication and a clear understanding of its pros and cons.

 

8 Ways to Get Your Children More Excited About Reading

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Encouraging a love of reading in children is a gift that can last a lifetime. However, getting kids excited about reading can be a challenge in today’s digital age. To help foster a passion for books, here are eight effective strategies:

 

  1. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment

A welcoming reading environment can make all the difference. Designate a cozy reading nook with comfortable seating, good lighting, and various age-appropriate books. Make it a special place where your child can escape the world of stories.

 

  1. Lead by Example

Children often model their behavior after adults, so they’re more likely to follow suit if they see you reading and enjoying books. Set aside time for family reading, where everyone can read their book or share a story.

 

  1. Offer a Diverse Selection

Stock your home with a wide range of reading materials, from picture books to graphic novels and non-fiction titles. Encourage your child to explore different genres, topics, and authors. Tailor their reading choices to their interests to keep them engaged.

 

  1. Make Reading an Adventure

Transform reading into an adventure by incorporating fun activities. For instance, you can:

 

  • Visit the Library: Take regular trips to the library, allowing your child to select books.
  • Read Aloud: Read stories aloud enthusiastically, using different voices for characters to make it entertaining.
  • Book Club: Organize a family or neighborhood book club where kids can discuss books they’ve read.
  • Book-related Outings: Plan outings related to books, such as visiting places mentioned in a story or attending author events if possible.

 

  1. Celebrate Milestones

Recognize and celebrate your child’s reading achievements. Set small goals, like completing a certain number of pages or finishing a book series, and reward them with praise or a small treat. Celebrating these milestones can boost their motivation to read.

 

  1. Participate in Reading Challenges

Join reading challenges or programs at your local library or school. These challenges often include incentives and prizes for meeting specific reading goals, adding an element of competition and excitement.

 

  1. Engage in Discussion

After your child finishes a book, engage them in discussions about the story. Ask open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking and exploration of themes and characters.

 

  1. Incorporate Technology Sparingly

While digital devices can be distracting, they can also be used to foster a love of reading. Consider e-books, audiobooks, or interactive reading apps that bring stories to life engagingly.

 

Remember that every child is unique; what excites one may not work for another. Be patient and adaptable in your approach, and always keep the focus on the joy of reading rather than pressuring your child. By implementing these strategies and nurturing a positive reading environment, you can help your children develop a lifelong love of books.

 

How to Make Your Kids Feel More at Home After Moving

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Moving can be a challenging experience for both parents and children. It can be difficult to adjust to a new home and community, especially for kids who may have to leave behind familiar surroundings, friends, and routines. However, there are steps you can take as a parent to help your kids feel more at home after moving. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for making the transition to a new home easier for your children.

Involve Your Kids in the Moving Process

One way to help your kids feel more at home after moving is to involve them as much as possible. This can help them feel like they have some control over the situation and give them a sense of ownership over their new home. Consider letting them help pack their belongings, choose decorations for their new room, and even pick out furniture or paint colors.

Create a Familiar Environment

One of the challenges of moving is that everything can feel new and unfamiliar. To help your kids feel more at home, try to create a familiar environment by unpacking their belongings as soon as possible. This can include their favorite toys, books, and clothing. Setting up their room to look and feel like their old room can also be comforting.

Establish Routines

Routines can be comforting and familiar for kids, especially in a new and unfamiliar environment. Try to establish routines as soon as possible after moving. This includes meal times, bedtime routines, and extracurricular activities. Stick to these routines as much as possible to help your kids feel more at home.

Explore the New Community

Exploring the new community can be fun to help your kids feel more at home after moving. Take them on a tour of the new neighborhood, including parks, playgrounds, and other local attractions. This can help them feel more connected to their new surroundings and can also help them make new friends.

Get Involved in Local Activities

Getting involved in local activities can be an excellent way for your kids to make new friends and feel more at home in their new community. Consider signing them up for sports teams, clubs, or other extracurricular activities. This can help them meet other kids with similar interests and give them a sense of belonging.

Stay in Touch With Old Friends

Moving doesn’t mean your kids have to lose touch with their old friends. Please encourage them to stay in touch through phone calls, video chats, and social media. This can help them feel less isolated and give them a sense of continuity and connection to their old home.

Be Patient and Supportive

Adjusting to a new home and community can take time, and your kids may experience various emotions as they navigate this transition. Be patient and supportive, and listen to their concerns and feelings. Encourage them to discuss their experiences and offer reassurance and guidance when needed.

Moving can be a challenging experience for kids, but there are steps you can take as a parent to help them feel more at home in their new environment. By involving them in the moving process, creating a familiar environment, establishing routines, exploring the new community, getting involved in local activities, staying in touch with old friends, and being patient and supportive, you can help your kids adjust to their new home and make a positive transition.

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.

What to Expect from your Ultrasound Test

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What is an Ultrasound?

An ultrasound is a test used to see images of a patient’s organs, tissues, or unborn baby in the case of pregnancy. The process involves a tool called an ultrasound probe, which emits high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves bounce off of tissues and are reflected back towards the probe. The reflected sound waves are then recorded and used to generate an image of the tissues. This procedure allows providers to visualize tissues and identify possible problems such as tumors. Ultrasounds are also used frequently to monitor the development of unborn babies.

Are Ultrasounds Safe?

When done properly, ultrasounds are safe. The procedure is non-invasive, so it does not require anything risky like an incision. Additionally, unlike other tests like X-rays, ultrasounds function without radiation, so patients do not need to worry about the potentially harmful side effects of radiation.

What Happens During an Ultrasound?

The exact process will vary depending on the body part being examined. In general, the procedure involves having a gel applied to the area. The provider then passes the ultrasound probe over that area. Some ultrasounds, like abdominal ultrasounds (which are commonly used during pregnancy), are performed on the outside of the body. Other ultrasounds involve inserting the probe into the body. For example, if digestive organs are being examined, the probe will be inserted into the patient’s throat. It is normal for an ultrasound to take 30 minutes, but it may take up to an hour. Any patient with concerns or questions should ask their provider for specific details about the procedure before it is performed.

What Happens After an Ultrasound?

After an ultrasound is performed, the images will be examined by a radiologist. The radiologist develops a report to give to the provider who can then discuss the results with the patient. It generally does not take very long to receive one’s results after an ultrasound. If a qualified provider is present while the procedure is being performed, they may be able to discuss the results with the patient immediately. Otherwise, it may take several days to hear back. In some cases, the results of ultrasound may identify issues such as heart problems, tumors, or blood clots. If a diagnosis is made, the provider should then explain the patient’s options for treatment.

Choosing the Right Birth Control for You

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Many people yearn to have children. However, for some people, having kids may not be in their plans right now. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to prevent pregnancy and stay child-free. While choosing a method may seem challenging, there are birth control methods that work well for many individuals.

The birth control pill

Birth control pills are one of the most popular forms of contraception. They keep the hormones in the body consistent and prevent ovulation. The user takes three weeks of pills that consist of hormones, and one week of pills that are placebos. The individual takes one pill at the same time each day. The birth control pill can reduce acne, make periods lighter and reduce the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers. However, the pill can slightly increase the risk of blood clots.

The birth control patch and the ring

The patch and the ring deliver the same hormones as the birth control pill. The individual places the patch on their skin and changes it each week. The ring is a flexible piece of plastic that a user inserts into their vagina and replaces each month. When an individual takes off the patch or takes out the vaginal ring for an entire week, one can expect their period to come. The patch or ring user may experience bloating, breast tenderness, or mood changes. The patch and the ring are not good methods for smokers or those who have cancer.

The shot

A birth control shot is like the birth control pill. Most go to their doctor’s office for an injection four times throughout the year for individuals who choose this option. For some users, the birth control shot may cause an individual’s period to become lighter. For others, their period may stop altogether. A birth control shot may cause bone thinning for users. However, once the individual discontinues the shot, the bone-thinning process reverses.

The intrauterine device (IUD)

An intrauterine device is a reversible, long-term method of birth control. One type of IUD is a hormone-filled plastic device. Another form of IUD is a copper version that doesn’t contain hormones. Both devices work by making it incredibly difficult for the sperm to reach the egg in one’s uterus. A physician must place this device in the uterus during an in-office appointment. This insertion can be a painful procedure for some women. An individual may also experience unpredictable bleeding for months after insertion.

The implant

A birth control implant is a tiny plastic rod that a physician places under the skin. It’s placed in the user’s upper arm and sends a consistent supply of hormones into the bloodstream to prevent a woman from becoming pregnant. The implant is similar to the hormones that are in the IUD. Some users may have lighter periods, but some individuals will notice their period becomes heavier.

If an individual is not dreaming of the sound of little feet running around the house, they can schedule a consultation with their doctor and discuss the best birth control method that might work best for their life.