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

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

Unexpected Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

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

 

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

 

Sinus Issues

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

 

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

 

Trouble Sleeping

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

 

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

 

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

 

Digestive Issues

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

 

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

 

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

 

Abdominal Pain

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

 

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

 

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

 

Constipation

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

 

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

 

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

 

Sensitive Gums

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

 

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

What to Pack for the Birth of Your Child

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

 

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

 

Comfortable Clothing

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

 

Relaxation Tools

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

 

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

 

Yoga Ball

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

 

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

 

Basic Hygiene Products

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

 

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

 

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

 

Hair Ties

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

 

 

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

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

 

Call Your OB/GYN

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

 

Start Tracking Symptoms

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

 

Think About Your Nutrition

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

 

Take a Breath

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

Tips For Pregnant Women To Beat The Summer Heat

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

 

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

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

 

Keep Cool

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

 

Stay Indoors

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

The Best Maternity Clothes Brands Of 2022

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

PinkBlush Maternity

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

A Pea In The Pod

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

H&M

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

Storq

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

Rent the Runway

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

Common Pregnancy Myths Debunked

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

 

You Can’t Exercise While Pregnant

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

 

You Can’t Drink Caffeine While Pregnant

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

 

You Can’t Have Sex While Pregnant

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

 

You’ll Suffer From Morning Sickness While Pregnant

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

The Best Books For Expecting Mothers In 2022

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

 

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

 

Nurture – Erica Chidi

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

 

The Girlfriend’s Guide To Pregnancy – Vicki Iovine

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

 

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

 

Ina May’s Guide To Child Birth – Ina May

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

 

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

What To Know About Having A Baby At 40

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

 

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

 

Benefits

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

 

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

 

Risks

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

 

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

 

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

Health Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Mother and Baby

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If you’ve been thinking about not breastfeeding your baby, then you probably have plenty of information to sift through.

Before you make a decision, check out all the benefits of breastfeeding for both you and your baby.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that exclusive breastfeeding is the best way to provide optimal nutrition for babies. This means that you should start breastfeeding your baby for at least six months before transitioning to solid food.

The World Health Organization and other health organizations recommend that new moms breastfeed their babies until they are two years old.

How Breastfeeding Benefits Babies

  1. Breast milk contains essential nutrition for babies

Most healthcare professionals also recommend breastfeeding for at least six months. It provides the nutrients needed for a baby’s first six months.

During the first few days after birth, your body produces a thick and yellowish fluid called Colostrum. It’s high in protein, low on sugar, and loaded with beneficial nutrients.

Colostrum is the ideal first milk for a newborn because it helps the baby’s digestive tract develop.

Although your milk supply is magical, it won’t provide enough vitamin D. To get enough in your system, consume vitamin D drops.

  1. It also contains antibodies 

It also contains anti-virus and bacteria-fighting antibodies, which help protect the baby from illness during the early months.

When a baby is exposed to bacteria or viruses, the IgA antibodies begin to form in the milk. This immunity system helps protect the baby from getting sick.

Unfortunately, formula doesn’t provide enough protection for babies; not being breastfed increases a baby’s chances of getting sick.

  1. The nutrients and antibodies may reduce disease risk

Exclusive breastfeeding is beneficial for your baby. It can reduce your child’s risk of many illnesses and diseases.

It’s also important to exclusively breastfeed for the protection of babies from various illnesses. Breastfeeding can also help protect babies from respiratory tract infections and other gastrointestinal illnesses. It can also decrease the risk of getting a serious cold.

Also, breastfeeding can help prevent infant mortality due to intestinal tissue damage. It’s also linked to a reduction in the risk of Sudden infant death syndrome. Being breastfed can also help prevent a baby from developing various diseases, such as colitis and Crohn’s disease. It can also decrease the risk of type 1 diabetes and childhood leukemia.

Studies show that breastfeeding can promote healthy weight gain and prevent childhood obesity. It’s believed that the beneficial bacteria in the gut of breastfed babies can affect the storage of fat.

Also, breastfeeding produces higher levels of the hormone leptin in its systems, which helps regulate appetite and fat storage. This helps breastfeeding babies develop healthy eating patterns.

  1. Breastfeeding may correlate to childrens’ intelligence

It’s also believed that breastfeeding helps boost the brain development of infants.

Factors such as breastfeeding’s effect on a baby’s intelligence and the nutrients it provides are also known to have a positive effect on a child’s development.

The long-term effects of breastfeeding are also beneficial for infants with a higher risk of developing developmental issues.

How Breastfeeding Benefits Mothers

  1. Breastfeeding can help mothers lose baby weight

There are also many reasons why breastfeeding babies can seem to gain weight. One of these is that it burns more calories than breastfeeding. After three months, the effects of breastfeeding seem to be less significant.

  1. Breastfeeding helps your uterus contract

During pregnancy, the uterus grows rapidly and fills almost the entire abdomen. This process, known as involution, is caused by the hormone oxytocin.

The high levels of oxytocin that you secrete during labor can help nourish the baby and reduce bleeding. Studies also suggest that breastfeeding can help improve the blood flow to the uterus.

  1. Breastfeeding lowers your risk for PPD

Postpartum depression is a condition that can develop after a woman has given birth. A 2012 study found that breastfeeding mothers were less prone to experiencing this type of depression.

Although women who have had a baby are less likely to experience postpartum depression, those who are still breastfeeding are still more prone to having difficulty doing this.

  1. It also lowers your risk for disease

Being a breastfeeding mother is known to lower a woman’s risk of various diseases and cancer. In addition, being a part of a breastfeeding group is linked to a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

  1. It can prevent menstruation post-birth

Being a breastfeeding mother can also help women maintain a regular menstrual cycle. It’s believed that this process helps nourish the uterus and provides a sense of time for women.

  1. Breastfeeding saves you money and time

Most breastfeeding mothers are free to choose breastfeeding. Not only do they save time, but they also don’t have to spend a huge amount of money on formula. Having a well-trained and organized breastfeeding staff can help you make breastfeeding easier and less time-consuming.

Although it’s recommended that women start breastfeeding at the age of 6 months, most health agencies still recommend it for everyone.

It’s also known that breastfeeding helps protect a baby from chronic diseases and illness.

Since there are many reasons to choose to breastfeed, your healthcare team can help you make the best possible choice for yourself.

What you should take away

Despite the numerous advantages of breastfeeding, most health agencies still recommend it for everyone. Milk contains various antibodies that can protect the baby from illness.

Your healthcare team can help you make the right choice for yourself and your baby.

Understanding the Second Trimester

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The time span of a normal pregnancy is divided into three segments which last between twelve and fourteen weeks each. The second trimester starts with week 13 and finishes at week 28 and is a time when the mother starts feeling better. The nausea, the fatigue, and the severe breast tenderness ease up. The baby is growing larger and the uterus expands and comes up out of the pelvis, eliminating the pressure on the bladder.

However, this trimester does have a few discomforts.

  • Braxton-Hicks contractions – The uterus starts tightening up in usually painless contractions, especially after strenuous physical activity.
  • Breast enlargement – The breasts are preparing to feed the baby. Mammary glands start to swell.
  • Nasal congestion – The nasal mucosa becomes engorged because of increased levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. Besides the stuffiness, the nasal veins are enlarged and bleed easily.
  • Bleeding gums – The same engorgement occurs in the gums and bleeding may occur with flossing or brushing.
  • Melasma – Brown patches may develop on the face or a brown line may show up on the lower abdomen. These changes are also due to hormones.
  • Quickening – The movement of the fetus can be felt at about 20 weeks.
  • Varicose veins and hemorrhoids – These congested veins may appear and be painful, especially with excessive weight gain and constipation.
  • Dizziness – This can happen on standing up and can even cause fainting. Staying well-hydrated is important.
  • Leg cramps – The body is no longer configured as it used to be. The leg muscles have to adjust to the weight above them. Cramping of tired muscles at night is not unusual. Stretching exercises before bed help. Staying well-hydrated also helps.
  • Vaginal discharge – Usually clear or white, this is normal.

 

At each prenatal visit, the mother will be evaluated for blood pressure, weight gain, and edema. Doppler checking of the heartbeat allows the parents to listen. The increasing size of the uterus will be measured to determine fetal growth.

The end of the second trimester is the beginning of the body’s preparations for birth as the mother enters the last trimester.