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

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

Best Gifts for Expecting Mothers

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There is nothing wrong with giving a pregnant woman a gift from her baby registry. An excellent addition, however, is a supplementary surprise that she isn’t expecting. 

Finding appropriate presents for expectant women is relatively easy. Finding something remarkable doesn’t have to cost a fortune, either. There are many sentimental and expensive gifts available for under $25. Feel free to use an occasion like her birthday or mother’s day to pamper her and take the focus off the baby for a short time. You don’t even need a reason. Just because gifts are the latest trend and there’s a good reason people are gravitating towards the idea. After the events of the last few years, people have been reevaluating their priorities. Thoughtful gifts are taking precedence over expensive ones.

Sleep Aids

For someone bearing a big load, sleep can be in short supply. Give the expectant mother a beautiful silk eye mask so she may catch some rest before her sleep cycle is disrupted. It features a detachable extension that can be used as a full-body pillow. Hatch is an expert in maternity clothing for use during and after pregnancy. A T-shirt dress, jersey robe, soft socks, and full-coverage undergarments are all included in this opulent gift package to make the expectant mother as warm as possible throughout her hospital stay.

Activities

The period leading up to a pregnant woman’s due date is the slowest increment of all. Mama is ready for the baby after nine long months, but newborns have their own schedules. She can pass the time with the help of amusing adult activity books. It is an essential present for expectant mothers.

Bring the spa to your favorite expectant mother if she is staying in to prepare for the baby’s grand entrance. With a bar of body and face soap, a bath bomb, a lip scrub, a face polish, and a room spray to set the scene, this gift package has everything she needs to unwind in the tub.

Looking for a heartfelt present for a future mother? Look no further. She will value a gift that enables her to save priceless memories. With 100 pages to write on, there will be plenty of lovely, saved moments when she expresses her thoughts to her child one day.

Cozy wear

The soon-to-be mother will value comfortable attire more than ever. She is the perfect candidate for a plush, comfortable robe. Additionally, the baby can curl up in it. Mom’s back will surely hurt because she now carries a lot of weight. A belly band is practical. To relieve the pressure, it gently lifts and cradles her tummy. When she is lying down, two memory-foam pads offer her additional support. One of the most common pregnancy concerns is aching feet, so give mom something to relieve the strain on her feet. The optimal slippers are plush ones with grips on the bottoms to prevent slipping.

Ways to Support New Moms Over the Holidays

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New mothers must be given extra compassion and support throughout Christmas. It’s a time of year that already brings up emotions. Postpartum feelings are heightened during this season. 

Whether hosting or traveling, new moms will benefit from the following considerations.

Honor Boundaries

Not all mothers enjoy being surrounded by eager relatives and friends dying to hold their new baby. They also need a break from the barrage of questions aimed at them or their little ones. It should only take a single “no” to make people step back and give a mom her space. 

Make Her Feel Special

New moms might ask for help instead of playing hostess when visitors arrive. Be understanding that her world is upside down, and she is sleep-deprived. Compliment something about her or her home to make her feel special since most people focus solely on the baby. Also, be ready to pitch in. whether it’s laundry, cleaning, or meal preparation, know ahead of time to expect it and oblige happily. The most harmful thing a new parent could feel is shame or guilt for requesting help. Find out ahead of time what to bring to make the evening go smoother or assist with her self-care. Be prepared not to hold the baby. Respect the level of closeness the mom is willing to share. Conversely, the mom might welcome your offer to hold her child while she catches up on rest. 

If the parents feel ready, offer to babysit so they can venture out for an actual date. It can be very isolating for new parents during the first six months. Their lives become an endless cycle of diapers, bottles, feedings, and sleeping in short bursts. Arrange an at-home spa day or a fun movie night for moms who aren’t yet ready to be separated from their little ones. Recreating a spa experience with the girls can be as straightforward or complex as you want. There are countless DIY websites on ways to recreate the experience. 

Alter Traditions

Typically, the Christmas season is a time of year that elicits memorable traditions. People gather at residences or venues to exchange presents and eat bountiful feasts. When a baby arrives, all parties must understand that new parents might be too exhausted to maintain the typical seasonal festivities. While this may be disappointing for some, remember that it’s a temporary change. The bigger picture is what’s important. Think about the joy that a new addition brings rather than focusing on changes in plans or your disappointment.

Is It Safe to Do Strength Training During Pregnancy?

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Many fitness enthusiasts wonder how their workouts will change once they become pregnant. If you are not currently in a regular strength training program, it is strongly advised to wait until after giving birth. It is not a good idea to start an extreme program during pregnancy. If you are already taking part in regular exercise,  it is still necessary to modify your routine to accommodate your growing body. For some people, such as serious weightlifters, it is advised to avoid lifting heavy objects as their pregnancy progresses. 

Before starting a fitness regimen while pregnant, your doctor should clear it first. You must follow best practices when it comes to working out while pregnant. You can also consult a pre-natal fitness professional for tips and suggestions. 

There are several advantages to maintaining a strength training program throughout pregnancy. In addition to staying fit, lifting weights can also help prepare your body for parenthood. According to Andrea Chisholm, a board-certified OB-GYN in Wyoming, strength training can assist with posture changes, maintain endurance, and protect the lower back. This is an essential part of labor.

One of the benefits of strength training while pregnant is improving the strength of your back muscles. The growing belly and enlarged breasts can stress the back muscles, leading to lower back pain. Doing so can help strengthen the back muscles and increase the strength of your core.

According to studies, strength training can help improve labor outcomes by decreasing the likelihood of a C-section and shortening the early stages of labor. It can also help lower the length of hospital stay.

Although strength training can help improve labor outcomes, it is also not a good idea to start worrying about going into early labor as it can still lead to premature delivery.

One of the most important advantages of strength training while pregnant is helping you maintain a healthy weight. Although it is important to gain weight to support your baby’s development, too much can lead to health problems, such as gestational diabetes.

Getting too little weight gain can also lead to the development of a child being too small. This can cause issues such as low birth weight and illness.

A regular exercise program during pregnancy can help prevent excess weight gain. It can also help lower the risk of preeclampsia.

Although strength training can lower the risk of gestational diabetes, it can still increase the risk of developing this condition later in life. Usually, high blood sugar levels during pregnancy can return to normal. However, if this happens later in life, it can lead to type 2 diabetes. In addition, gestational diabetes can enhance the risks of developing other conditions, such as impaired glucose tolerance and obesity.

One of the toughest lines of defense against gestational diabetes is incorporating resistance training into your regular exercise program. Doing so can help prevent the development of this condition and protect the baby from macrosomia, which can occur when a newborn weighs over eight pounds.

 

The Origin of Baby Showers

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The concept of a baby shower dates back to ancient times. While modern-day festivities tend to include the baby’s gender, the tradition started during the very beginning of human culture, when the gender of the child was never officially involved.

It’s believed that the concept of a baby shower dates back to the ancient Greeks and Egyptians. They held ceremonies to welcome new life into the world. Unlike the idea of a modern celebration, the mother-to-be was not given gifts. The tradition began when the mothers were quarantined after their babies were born, as it was believed that the process was unclean. Following the purification, the women would often visit a temple. 

From the 5th to the 15th century, the festivities focused on God instead of the mother. One of the most significant events people held following their child’s birth was baptism. However, it was not allowed for the mother to participate in the festivities. According to tradition, a mother was required to undergo a 40-day sequestering period.

During the Middle Ages, baby shower celebrations were more practical. As time passed, baptisms were still highly regarded, but mothers were given equal importance during the Renaissance. The mother-to-be was treated like a queen during the baby shower during this era. She was offered various gifts, such as expensive clothes and food. During the Renaissance period, some affluent families even gave paintings as presents. Mothers were often given an inlaid wooden tray with a message of good wishes for their new child.

The concept of a baby shower evolved further during the Victorian Age. Pregnant women were not always seen in public during this period but were often invited to tea parties. It was a time when women were still reluctant to publicize their pregnancy, and it was still talked about privately.

The concept of a baby shower continued to evolve from the 1800s until the 1900s. During this time, grandmothers would often lavish gifts on their expecting granddaughters. The celebrations were also more festive. The idea behind the baby shower was to help the families financially burdened by the additional expenses associated with the pregnancy. At this time, the gifts became practical, as the new mom was given various items such as diapers and clothes.

The tradition of giving gifts continues to this day. Most of the time, the festivities are hosted by the mother-to-be’s close friends and family. Today’s baby showers are lavish and festive, as fathers-to-be are also brought into the festivities. Some people still stick to traditional gifts, such as diapers and clothes. Some mothers-to-be receive indulgences, such as spa treatments and luxury baskets, that are very expensive. 

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.