By Kirstie Perrotta, MPH, MotherToBaby California and Lorrie Harris-Sagaribay, MPH, MotherToBaby North Carolina With schools back in full swing, fall activities underway, and children gathered once again in classrooms and other indoor settings, parents—including those who are pregnant—have renewed questions about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. MotherToBaby is seeing an increase in questions from pregnant women who want to protect themselves and their families as much as possible. Although …
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About Our Baby Blog
Every person wants to know what’s best for their baby, especially when it comes to knowing how to minimize exposure risks. Our relatable stories are packed with practical information from our rotating staff of MotherToBaby expert bloggers. Whatever topic you’re looking for, our blogs will provide you a great foundation to learn more.
The Day the World Went Dark: A Personal Account of Miscarriage, Abortion and Ectopic Pregnancy
by Sarah Obican, MD, MotherToBaby President Though I wish I didn’t remember the day well, I do. I was a maternal fetal medicine fellow in NYC and I was sitting with my two beautiful co-fellows. When I say my co-fellows were beautiful, I mean that inside and out. We were an odd pairing of three musketeers. Young, bright, professional women, training to take care of women with high-risk pregnancies… and all three of us were pregnant. It was completely unplanned and highly unusual for all three …
Folic Acid – Is More Really Better?
It was late on a Tuesday when a chat came in from Dr. Rodriguez. “My patient is taking a medication for epilepsy. She is planning a pregnancy and I’ve seen from some sources she may need to take more folic acid to help prevent birth defects. Does she need to be on a higher dose?” As teratogen information specialists, we receive many inquiries regarding folic acid; and it was understandable why this healthcare provider was confused as the guidance isn’t exactly straightforward. What is folic …
When Yeast Overgrows: What You Should Know About Vaginal Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
Summer is here! For those of us who are pregnant (and I am currently in my third trimester of pregnancy), the heat and humidity are just a recipe for misery. But you know who loves heat and humidity? Yeast. And summertime is prime time for vaginal yeast infections. What is a vaginal yeast infection? Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. All women have a balanced mix of …
Air Pollution, Allergies, and Asthma – When Breathing during Pregnancy Is Difficult
The air we breathe matters and often we do not have control over what is in it. For many, the Spring season brings beautiful flowers and a most welcome warming of temperatures, as well as spending more time outside. It also marks the explosion of pollen, which can irritate both those with allergies and people with asthma. Being outside to engage in outdoor activities also means we are exposed to any air pollution that may be present. Pregnancy is a sensitive time for both the parent and the …
