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.

 

The Items You Need to Have on Your Baby Registry

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Creating a baby registry is an exciting and practical step for expectant parents as it helps friends and family contribute essential items for the upcoming arrival. To ensure you’re well-prepared for your baby’s needs, curating a comprehensive registry is crucial. Here’s a guide on the items you need to have on your baby registry:

Nursery Essentials:

Crib or Bassinet: A safe and comfortable sleeping space for your baby.

Changing Table: A dedicated area for diaper changes with storage for diapers and wipes.

Dresser: To store baby clothes, blankets, and other essentials.

Feeding Supplies:

Breast Pump: For breastfeeding mothers, a quality breast pump is essential.

Bottles and Nipples: Whether you breastfeed or use formula, having a variety of bottles and nipples is beneficial.

Nursing Pillow: Provides support during breastfeeding sessions.

Burp Cloths: Essential for managing spit-up during and after feeding.

Diapering Essentials:

Diapers: Stock up on different sizes for the first few months.

Wipes: Gentle wipes for diaper changes.

Diaper Bag: A spacious and organized bag for carrying diapers, wipes, and other essentials.

Diaper Pail: To contain and mask the smell of dirty diapers.

Clothing and Linens:

Onesies and Sleepsuits: Comfortable one-piece outfits for day and night.

Swaddle Blankets: Soft blankets for swaddling and keeping your baby snug.

Hats and Socks: Keep your baby’s head warm and feet covered.

Sleep Sacks: Provide a safe and cozy sleeping environment.

Baby Gear:

Stroller: A reliable stroller for walks and outings.

Car Seat: A must-have for safely transporting your baby in the car.

Baby Carrier: Allows for hands-free carrying and bonding with your baby.

Bouncer or Swing: Provides a soothing motion for naps and playtime.

Health and Safety Items:

Baby Monitor: Allows you to watch your baby while they sleep.

Thermometer: For monitoring your baby’s temperature.

Nasal Aspirator: Helps clear your baby’s nasal passages.

Baby First Aid Kit: Includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and infant-friendly medications.

Toiletries and Bathing Supplies:

Baby Shampoo and Wash: Gentle products for your baby’s sensitive skin.

Soft Towels and Washcloths: Perfect for bath time.

Baby Brush and Comb: Keeps your baby’s hair tidy and tangle-free.

Playtime and Developmental Toys:

Soft Toys: Stuffed animals and soft toys for cuddling.

Baby Gym: A playmat with hanging toys for tummy time and sensory development.

Rattles and Teething Toys: Helps with early sensory exploration.

Registry Completion Discounts and Perks:

Many retailers offer completion discounts for items remaining on your registry after your baby shower. Take advantage of these discounts to purchase any remaining essentials.

Gift Cards:

Include various gift cards to baby stores or general retailers, allowing you to fill in any gaps in your baby supplies as needed.

Creating a well-thought-out baby registry ensures you receive the items you need to care for your newborn. Regularly update your registry based on your preferences and needs, and remember to express your gratitude to those who contribute to your baby’s essentials.

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.

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.

 

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.

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.

Great Pregnancy Podcasts For Expecting Mothers In 2022

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Getting pregnant can be exciting, but it can also feel like a daunting experience. With so many changes happening in your body and mind during this time, it can be hard to keep up with all the latest developments. Fortunately, pregnancy podcasts are a great way to get all the information you need about becoming a mother.

 

There are a variety of pregnancy-focused podcasts out there, and they’re designed to help parents-to-be navigate the various stages of becoming a mother. They also provide valuable advice from experts and parents-to-be who have been there. Aside from being able to provide helpful information, these podcasts also allow busy parents to listen while they’re doing the dishes or buying baby clothes. Here are a few great podcasts for pregnant mothers.

 

If These Ovaries Could Talk

If These Ovaries Could Talk is a comedy pregnancy podcast that’s dedicated to celebrating the baby-making experiences of LGBTQ+ families. It’s hosted by Robin Hopkins and Jaimie Kelton, and it features guests who talk about their own experiences as queer people as they prepare to become parents, sharing the challenges they face, as well as their own fears and aspirations about becoming parents.

 

Plus Mommy Podcast

The Plus Mommy Podcast is hosted by Jen McLellan, and it features a variety of body-positive guests who are committed to supporting and celebrating all women who are expecting. While anyone can enjoy and take something away from the show, its main goal is to destigmatize topics surrounding plus-sized pregnancies, letting plus-sized mothers know that they’re not alone out there.

 

All About Pregnancy and Birth

One of the best podcasts for first-time parents is The Pregnancy Podcast, which is hosted by Nicole Rankins. She has over 15 years of experience as an ob-gyn, and she shares the latest information about pregnancy and parenting. Each episode features expert guest stars who Nicole interviews, as well as parents who share their own experiences being a first-time parent, covering topics such as postpartum recovery, IVF, and so much more.

 

The Birth Hour: A Birth Story Podcast

Sometimes, listening to the inspiring stories of others is just what’s needed during those long nine months of pregnancy. This show, which is hosted by Bryn Huntpalmer, features stories from every step of the journey, as well as interviews with birth professionals. You’ll hear stories about navigating the postpartum period, trying to actually conceive, and just generally getting ready for your baby to arrive.

Can You Donate Blood When You’re Pregnant?

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When you discover you’re about to become a parent for the first time, your outlook on the world may change a little bit. Often times people will think about how they want to raise their children in a happy, safe world, and maybe you’re considering becoming a little more altruistic. While it’s great to want to do good, if you’re pregnant, you need to be careful about what you choose to do. For example, donating blood. Donating blood is a great thing to do, and when you’re pregnant your blood volume increases significantly. Think again, as donating blood when pregnant is not a good idea.

Being pregnant can be one of the most beautiful and exciting times of your life, but it can also be incredibly nerve-wracking. There are so many resources out there that can help you make informed decisions, and it can be hard to decide what is safe and what isn’t. There are always things you should avoid when pregnant such as alcohol and caffeine. Blood donation is one of those things.

The American Red Cross’ eligibility requirements state that pregnant women are not allowed to donate blood. Doing so can have detrimental effects on your health and the safety of your child.

Donating blood typically leads to a drop in iron. A drop in iron can lead to anemia, and it’s especially harmful to pregnant women since they’re at high risk for this condition. According to Dr. Janelle Mary Jackman, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at Kindbody in Silicon Valley, iron is very important to both mother and baby’s health during pregnancy, as it transports oxygen to various parts of the body, including the placenta, which is where oxygen diffuses into the baby’s blood.

This can lead to low oxygen levels throughout the body, which can cause premature birth and low birth weight. Aside from this, iron is also important for the development of the fetus and the red blood cells that nourish the mother.

It’s important to note that iron deficiency anemia isn’t a rare condition during pregnancy. According to Jackman, it’s caused by the plasma component of blood rising faster than the red blood cells. This causes physiological anemia in the mother. To avoid this, she recommends increasing your iron intake by around 350 to 500 mL. If you’re worried about an iron deficiency or an issue with your baby’s health, talk to your doctor about it. He or she can monitor your baby’s health and provide you with the correct information.

How Long After Giving Birth Can You Donate Blood?

If you’re still interested in blood donation once you’ve given birth, talk to your doctor about it. The American Red Cross won’t allow you to give blood until six weeks after you’ve had your baby, but you may want to wait between 6 to 9 months after childbirth as breastmilk relies on iron, and childbirth typically involves a large amount of blood loss.