It is Black History Month and it is a coincidence that I, as an African American woman, signed up for MotherToBaby’s monthly Baby Blog when we celebrate Black History. However, I am glad to discuss a topic that is personal to me in the respect that my background is in public health and I specialized in maternal and child health. As I reflect on the days of my early education, one message that resonated with me is that childbirth, for the Black individual, is still a very dangerous time; it …
The Baby Blog: vaccines
COVID-19, the Flu, and Zika: Considerations for Pregnancy in the Winter Travel Season
It’s that time of year again, when the holidays invite family gatherings, and colder, shorter days make us long for sunny destinations. Yes, the winter travel season is upon us! Remember winters past when COVID-19 wasn’t around and we’d never heard of Zika? When we didn’t give much thought to health concerns related to hopping on a plane or going to busy holiday venues? Things are different now. If you’re pregnant, you might pause before booking airline tickets or RSVPing “yes” to that extended …
To Boost or Not to Boost, That is the Question
Morgan called late Friday afternoon with a question about COVID-19 booster shots. She shared that she was 37 weeks along and had received both shots of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine back in February, at the very beginning of her pregnancy. Morgan wanted to do what was best to protect her baby, and asked if she qualified for the booster shot that was now available. As a Teratogen Information Specialist at MotherToBaby California, COVID-19 vaccine questions are my number one inquiry right now. …
Hit Me With Your Best Shot! COVID-19 Vaccines
Question 1: I work in healthcare and received the first dose of COVID vaccine. But after receiving the shot, I found out I was pregnant. I changed jobs so that I am not at significant risk anymore. Should I get the second shot? Question 2: I’m pumping and supposed to get the COVID vaccine. I know there isn't much to say on the COVID vaccine but wondering if you would recommend getting it or not? These are just a sample of the questions that we have received from …
Planning a Healthy Pregnancy
Tanya called in on a Monday morning. “I’m getting married in a few months and we want to start trying to get pregnant right away. What should I be doing now to have the best chance of a healthy baby?” Preconception health and pregnancy planning present a terrific opportunity to assess a wide range of factors that can give your baby the best start. This blog will outline the things to consider, as I relayed to Tanya: Your Personal Health Are you generally healthy? If you already get …
