Pregnancy, Fertility and Childbirth
You may be interested in the topic of fertility and pregnancy if
you are trying to get pregnant, or have been told that you are
infertile. Today, we understand a great deal about pregnancy and
childbirth, and many medical interventions exist to help... More
You may be interested in the topic of fertility and pregnancy if you are trying to get pregnant, or have been told that you are infertile. Today, we understand a great deal about pregnancy and childbirth, and many medical interventions exist to help you conceive, even if you have obstacles preventing you from conceiving naturally. Once you become pregnant, it is important to follow your doctors recommendations for prenatal care, which can help to make sure that you and your baby stay in the best health possible. In your last trimester, it will be important to understand what happens during labor and delivery, and to know your pain control options. To learn more about the process of birth, ask your doctor about childbirth classes in your area. Less
Recently Answered
- Q What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
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The most common symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy are pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding with a positive pregnancy test. If a patient experiences these symptoms, she needs to seek help through an emergency room physician or an OB/GYN immediately... More
If you have had an ectopic pregnancy, you may not have had your period (menses) when you should have had it. You may have no other signs or symptoms or you may have one or more of the following. Call your doctor if you suspect you have an ectopic... More
Common symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include:Vaginal bleedingSigns of early pregnancyLower abdominal or pelvic painDizziness or weaknessIf the fallopian tube ruptures, the pain and bleeding could be severe enough to cause fainting. Contact your health... More
- Q What causes an ectopic pregnancy?
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An ectopic pregnancy is caused by an abnormality of the fallopian tubes. The sperm and the egg unite in the fallopian tube, and as the embryo is being formed over a 2-3 day period, the embryo traverses through the fallopian tube and implants in the... More
The following may increase your risk of having an ectopic pregnancy, in which a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus: Abdominal surgery: Having had surgery in your abdomen or on your reproductive organs. Infections: Having had past... More
When the blastocyst implants anywhere outside the uterine cavity the result is an ectopic pregnancy. The incidence is about 1 percent of all pregnancies and is increased in women over age 35 and in women of color. Over the last decade the incidence is on... More
- Q How can I cope with postpartum depression?
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Coping is the operative word here! Almost everyone involved with helping support women with postpartum depression (PPD) have three key sentences of advice that they immediately offer: "You are not alone." "It is not your fault." "You will get better."... More
Postpartum depression is a medical condition, not a sign of weakness. Be honest with yourself and those who care about you. Tell them about your struggle. You, your doctor and your friends and family can team up to treat your symptoms. Schedule... More
- Q Is there anything I can do to prevent postpartum depression?
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There are a few things you can do to help prevent depression after delivery. You can let others help you and not try to do everything yourself when it comes to caring for your newborn. Talk to your partner or someone close to you if you are experiencing... More
Sepia is the most commonly used natural remedy and it is worth a try. Women who need it tend to be exhausted (common of course for mothers nursing infants!) and to feel at the end of their rope. They may get teary at the drop of a hat or irritable with... More
Although you can't prevent the postpartum hormone changes that cause postpartum blues, you can take steps to prevent ongoing postpartum depression (PPD). If you have a history of depression or postpartum depression, you and your doctor have some... More
- Q How does postpartum depression affect my body?
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Postpartum blues and depression - Over half of all women have some mood-related symptoms during the first 2 weeks after childbirth. Most women with postpartum blues, or "baby blues," find that their mood swings, insomnia, overwhelmed feelings and... More
- Q What are the risk factors for postpartum depression?
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Postpartum depression can happen to anybody. New moms are told that they are supposed to “fall in love” with their newborns the moment they are placed in their arms. But for up to 15% of new mothers, a combination of biochemical changes... More
Postpartum depression can develop after the birth of any child, not just the first. Some factors that increase the risk of developing postpartum depression are: A history of depression, either during pregnancy or at other times Postpartum depression... More
Every woman is at risk for temporary "postpartum blues" during the first 2 weeks after childbirth, because of sudden hormone changes and the challenges of caring for a newborn. Women who have miscarried or had a stillbirth are also at risk. But there... More
