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

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

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.

 

Navigating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship

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Navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship simultaneously is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Balancing the demands of raising children while pursuing entrepreneurial ambitions requires careful planning, adaptability, and self-care. 

Here are some key considerations and strategies to help navigate the complex intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Time management:

Efficient time management is crucial for juggling the responsibilities of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Create a schedule that includes dedicated blocks of time for both roles. Prioritize tasks, delegate when possible, and set realistic expectations. 

Establish a support system: 

Building a solid support system is vital. Surround yourself with family, friends, and mentors who can offer emotional support, practical advice, and assistance with childcare. 

Define boundaries: 

Clearly define boundaries between work and family life. Set specific working hours and communicate them with your family. Establishing boundaries helps create a sense of structure and allows for quality time with your children. 

Delegate and outsource: 

Learn to delegate tasks at home and in your business. Enlist the help of your partner, family members, or trusted professionals to share the load. Consider outsourcing certain aspects of your business, such as administrative tasks or marketing, to free up more time for family commitments.

Embrace flexibility: 

One of the benefits of entrepreneurship is the ability to create a flexible schedule. Take advantage of this flexibility to attend school events, doctor’s appointments, or spend quality time with your children. 

Self-care is essential: 

It’s easy for entrepreneurial mothers to neglect self-care, but caring for yourself is vital for overall well-being. Prioritize activities that promote physical and mental health, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with friends. 

Set realistic goals: 

As an entrepreneurial mother, setting realistic and achievable goals is crucial. Understand that your pace may be different from that of others, and that’s okay.

Build a flexible business model: 

Consider designing your business model to accommodate the needs of motherhood. Explore options such as remote work, flexible hours, or creating a business that aligns with your family’s values and lifestyle. 

Seek mentorship and guidance: 

Connect with other entrepreneurial mothers who have successfully navigated this journey. Seek mentors who can provide guidance and advice based on their experiences. 

Embrace the journey: 

Remember that being a mother and an entrepreneur is a unique and remarkable journey. Embrace the challenges and joys that come with it. Stay true to your vision and purpose, and remember that you are setting a powerful example for your children as they witness your dedication, resilience, and pursuit of your dreams.

Successfully navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship requires careful planning, adaptability, and self-care. You can find a harmonious balance between your roles as a mother and an entrepreneur by effectively managing your time, establishing a support system, setting boundaries, and embracing flexibility. Remember to prioritize self-care, set realistic goals, and seek guidance from mentors who have traveled a similar path. Ultimately, embracing the journey and staying true to your vision can create a fulfilling and meaningful life as a mother and an entrepreneur.

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.

 

 

Attachment Or Gentle Parenting?

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Attachment parenting, commonly referred to as AP, is a form of parenting whose aim is to maximize the bond between the infant and the parent through physical touch by either feeding or sharing a bed with the infant. On the other hand, we can sum up general parenting in empathy, understanding, and respect. The relationship between the parent and the infant is based on the three terms. While the two forms of parenting can be confused easily, they have significant differences, as stated below:

 

Gentle parenting focuses on teaching children that it is okay to make mistakes, and as a result, the parents do not punish the children. Any error is a learning opportunity for the child. Attachment parenting, on the other hand, children are punished for any wrongdoing. The punishment does not cause harm to the children but corrects and disciplines them.

 

Parents who settle on gentle parenting recognize that it is essential to take care of themselves by taking some time out and getting assistance to raise the child. The space they get by being away from the child aims to make them better parents. On the other hand, parents who settle on attachment parenting have a hard time separating their feelings from those of the child. They choose to be fully present with no assistance without realizing its impact on their mental and physical health.

 

Parents who practice attachment parenting tend to reward their children for good behavior. For instance, when a child is given a chore and follows through with the given instructions, the parents reward them with sweets or toys. With gentle parenting, though, children are not rewarded for any reason, the parent’s term rewards as unnecessary and superficial.

 

For gentle parenting, parents acknowledge that the child has an immature but growing brain. As a result, behavioral expectations are lowered. They understand that children will react in childish ways, and it is okay. Parents that believe in attachment parenting view children as little adults. They expect the children to reason and behave as they do. In attachment parenting, children are expected to have the same social mannerisms as parents.

 

Both forms of parenting are socially acceptable. Back in the day, what parents said was considered law, and the children were expected to follow instructions given to the latter. In the modern-day, however, children question authority, and society is slowly learning to embrace this new generation and new forms of parenting. Times change, and we evolve.

Understanding the Stages of Breast Cancer

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Mammograms are an essential part of cancer prevention. Regular screening provides the best chance of early detection when cancer is easiest to treat and cure.

When breast cancer is detected, its pathology report will place it in one of five stages. Categorizing cancer into stages helps the doctor and patient decide upon and implement the best treatment options.

Recent advances in cancer staging guidelines from the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) make the staging and treatment of breast cancer more complex but more accurate. Information on tumor grade, hormone-receptor status, and possible Oncotype DX test results are considered in all stages when developing a treatment plan.

One of the best ways a patient can alleviate fears of a cancer diagnosis is to understand the stages of breast cancer and the treatment options available.

Stage 0

Stage 0 defines non-invasive breast cancer such as DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). There is no evidence of cancerous or other abnormal cells invading tissue outside of the immediate area where cancer began.

Stage I

Stage I defines invasive breast cancer, meaning that cancer cells are present in normal tissue immediately outside of where cancer started but still confined to the breast. The chance of cure for Stage 0 or Stage I is high. Stage I is further divided into subcategories IA and IB.

Stage II

Stage II describes invasive and growing breast cancer that’s larger but still confined to the breast. It may have spread to some axillary lymph nodes. Stage II divides cancer into subcategories IIA and IIB.

Stage III

Stage III comprises three subcategories–IIIA, IIIB, IIIC. Stage III generally describes a more aggressive and invasive cancer. Its size is more than 5cm and, it may be spreading into nearby muscle and lymph nodes. But it has not spread to distant organs.

Stage IV

In Stage IV, breast cancer has become metastatic. This means that it has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to distant organs in the body such as the lungs, liver, brain, or bones.

The cure rate of stage IV is reduced dramatically. But, with today’s treatments, a relatively normal life can be prolonged for several years.

Most Important Questions to Ask Each Trimester

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What is your favorite question to ask during the first trimester? What about the second or third? In this blog post, we will discuss four questions that you should be asking yourself each trimester. Whether it’s through a simple check-up at the doctor’s office, or just some self-reflection on how you’re feeling, these are all important questions that will help keep your mind healthy and happy!

1st Trimester:

Am I feeling more tired than usual? Fatigue is a very common symptom of pregnancy. Many women will find that they need to take naps during the day, and will find it difficult to wake up in the morning or stay awake past 9 pm! This is because, throughout pregnancy, your blood volume increases by almost 50%, creating a greater demand for oxygen-rich red blood cells. For this increase to happen as quickly as possible, your body produces certain hormones, such as progesterone and estradiol, causing overall fatigue.

2nd Trimester:

Is my baby moving more than usual? Typically around week 18-20 gestational age (or the second trimester), most women will begin to feel their babies move for the first time. This can sometimes be startling and uncomfortable at first; however, it’s important not to panic until having confirmed with your doctor! Fetal movement is vital for proper development and growth. The more active and healthy your baby is, the better he or she will be able to fight off infections and sickness during pregnancy. It’s also important to know that the amount of movement your baby does in each session can vary – sometimes they can be very active, while other times they might not move much at all!

3rd Trimester:

What are my feelings about breastfeeding? Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things a woman can do after giving birth. The reality is, however, many women feel uncomfortable with the idea of breastfeeding – whether it’s because they don’t want their child becoming attached to them, or it makes them feel self-conscious about their physical appearance. Either way, it is important for couples choosing to breastfeed to discuss this with their doctor and one another. Breastfeeding can be challenging at first, but it is certainly worth all of the painstaking preparation you put in to ensure success!

As always, it’s critical for pregnant women to monitor their bodies closely and make sure they are taking care of themselves. Pregnancy is not an illness, but it does impact our bodies at a very deep level. Routine checkups and proper nutrition will help to ensure the health and happiness of you and your child during this time, as well as for years to come! Remember: motherhood can be one of the most challenging things you will ever do, but it can also be one of the most rewarding!

Heart Health for Women Over 40

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When it comes to heart health, the focus is often on men. The University of Bergen in Norway recently released studies that show women, especially those over 40, should be conscientious about their heart health by monitoring their blood pressure. Women’s blood pressure can be an indicator of future issues.

Even Women Who Feel Healthy Need To Monitor Their Blood Pressure

Women are strongly advised to have their primary care doctors monitor their blood pressure regularly, even if they don’t have symptoms of heart trouble currently. It’s been shown in studies that women with slightly elevated blood pressure levels in their early 40s can be double as likely to experience serious heart troubles by their 50s. This includes heart attacks.

When deciding how concerning a woman’s blood pressure levels are, multiple factors are taken into consideration. Diabetes, obesity, family history, and more will be assessed. Doctors will choose how often to monitor each woman based on these things.

Higher Blood Pressure In Women Could Be More Significant Than In Men

Middle-aged and younger women often have a lower blood pressure than men, but the high blood pressure level threshold for men and women is the same. By the time women meet the threshold, their blood pressure is much higher than it should be already. Studies have also indicated that high blood pressure in women is a bigger risk factor for heart disease than it is in men.

It has been shown that women with even mildly elevated blood pressure were twice as likely to have serious midlife heart issues.

What May Cause These Differences?

One theory is that women’s small arteries are more strongly impacted than men’s by higher blood pressure. Beginning in their 30s, women may experience a sharp increase in blood pressure. Due to the fact high blood pressure thresholds are not different for each sex, the elevation is far more for women by the time they reach the threshold. Women’s bodies are being negatively impacted by their elevated blood pressures well before they’re considered “too high” medically speaking. This is something some professionals are saying needs to be changed to help women keep healthy as long as possible. Take heart health seriously.

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.