Having worked as a Teratogen Information Specialist at MotherToBaby for close to 10 years, I have become well versed in the different exposures people commonly ask about. Allergy medications in the spring, sunscreen and bug spray in the summer, and cough and cold medications all winter long. So, when I logged onto our live chat service at mothertobaby.org on a Tuesday morning, I was surprised to see a question that doesn’t come up very often. Natalie, pregnant with her first child, asked: “I’m …
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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.
Individualized Mental Health Care is Essential in Pregnancy
Mental health conditions are real health issues that deserve appropriate and individualized medical care. Making informed healthcare decisions requires that women and their healthcare providers be aware of the available safety information for each specific medication they might be considering. We encourage pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy to have open conversations with their healthcare providers to carefully weigh any potential increased risks of medications, as well as the …
MotherToBaby Interactive Critical Periods of Pregnancy Tool
Understanding Critical Periods in PregnancyKendra, newly pregnant at approximately 7 weeks along, contacted MotherToBaby late one afternoon with a question that had been causing her a lot of anxiety. Norovirus was running rampant in her home, and she was feeling extremely nauseous. Having found relief with it before, she explained that she had taken a single dose of Zofran (ondansetron) early that morning. She was certain this drug was ok to take during pregnancy, but after searching online, she …
Vector-Borne Illnesses: How to Fight the (Bug) Bite During Pregnancy
The arrival of spring and summer warmth spurs many of us to spend more time outdoors and make travel plans, be it for a honeymoon, babymoon, or other seasonal getaway. Such was the case with Yesenia, who contacted MotherToBaby with questions about her upcoming summer vacation after finding out she is pregnant. Yesenia knew that with warmer temperatures comes an increased chance of mosquito bites and the infections they can carry. Like Yesenia, as you engage in more outdoor activity and plan …
Birth Control and Breastfeeding
Marie called with a question, “My baby is 4 weeks old, and my husband and I love her to death. However, she is a lot of work, and we do not want another little one quite yet. My husband and I are also hoping to resume our sex life, but can I be on birth control while breastfeeding?” MotherToBaby is here to help answer some of those questions! Of course, before you decide, it is best to speak with your medical provider and get their advice. Since everyone is different, some birth …
