By Beth Kiernan, MPH, Interviewer & Teratogen Information Specialist, MotherToBaby Kristin called MotherToBaby one afternoon saying, “I just took a home pregnancy test and it’s positive.” Kristin sounded beyond worried. “I’ve been taking a medication for ADHD since I was eight years old, and when I searched the internet it said it was harmful and that I should stop taking it before getting pregnant.” Kristin hadn’t planned on getting pregnant. Now, not only was she terrified she had hurt …
The Baby Blog: Mom's Health Conditions
Breathing for Two: Managing Your Asthma during Pregnancy
By Jennifer Namazy, MD, Allergist & Immunologist, MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies Asthma Study Consultant My first patient of the day was an urgent visit for a woman with shortness of breath. Her name was Heather and she had found out she was pregnant about two months ago. She was thrilled since she had been trying to have a baby for about two years. Once she found out she was pregnant she did three things: she shared the wonderful news with family, she began plans on her new nursery and …
When Counting Sheep Doesn’t Work: Insomnia and Pregnancy
By Patricia Markland Cole, MPH, MotherToBaby Massachusetts During my work at MotherToBaby, I have received calls from pregnant woman who want to know what can they safely take to sleep? Usually they are looking at natural remedies like melatonin for information. For some who have been on medications like Ambien before they were pregnant, they now wonder if they can use it because they are having a hard time catching those Zzzz’s. Even though I am not pregnant, I am sure all of us can relate to …
Help for the Holidays: Surviving Stress During Pregnancy
Photo credit: © Lisa F. Young | Dreamstime Stock Photos By Neely Cessac, Teratogen Information Specialist, MotherToBaby The holidays are full of family, fun, and enjoyment – and the season is wonderful EVERY, SINGLE, DAY, right?! WRONG. Every year many pregnant women (as well as the general public) become so stressed and worried around this time. And rightly so…not only do pregnant moms have regular holiday stress, but they’ll soon become moms! M-O-M-S! Holy cow. An overwhelming concept, to say …
IVF and The Risk of a Broken Heart
By Dr. Sarah Običan, OBGYN, MotherToBaby It’s noon. I just ran into my academic office to call back a few patients in between a packed schedule. I just spent my morning seeing 17 patients and gauging by my afternoon schedule, the day was not going to get much easier. I was new at my job as an OBGYN having joined the academic practice where I completed my residency. It was a busy practice, but I loved my job and I loved my patients. As I sat in my chair, I finally felt my feet again and realized …
