You’re pregnant. Once you processed that stunning fact, one question probably jumped straight to the top of your mind: Now what?
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All medicines have certain risks and benefits, but some aren’t safe to use when you’re pregnant. And each woman’s situation is different. Before you start—or stop—taking any over-the-counter, herbal, or prescription medicine, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider.
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If you’re a woman who has been told that you have fibroids, you’re not alone. These muscular tumors in the wall of the uterus are very common in women of childbearing age. By age 50, up to 80% of women may have fibroids. After menopause, the tumors usually shrink.
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You’ve likely heard that a pregnant woman is “eating for two.” Well, it’s true—and the same goes for moms who are breastfeeding their babies. Now, there’s national nutrition advice specific to these moms-to-be and new mothers.
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Every relationship evolves over time. The one you have with your gynecological care provider is no exception. As your body changes, your yearly well-woman visits adjust to your needs. Whether you see a gynecologist or your primary care provider for these checkups, here’s what to expect, decade by decade.
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More women are becoming pregnant later in life. Some will be first-time mothers, while others are having another child. Older mothers may be more financially stable or settled in their careers. They also may feel better able to care for a baby than a young mother would. But do older mothers and their babies face additional risks?
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Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) affect millions of Americans. But you can take steps to lower your risk for these problems and keep Elvis as your main pelvis-related association.
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Millions of people in the U.S. live with bowel incontinence. It’s increasingly common with age and impacts more women than men. If you think you may have bowel incontinence, you don’t have to suffer in silence any longer. Bowel incontinence is often treatable, so talk with your healthcare provider today.
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If you’re trying to conceive—or even considering the possibility—good health is more important than ever. Preparing your body for pregnancy could make the difference between success and failure. Here’s how:
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Being a new mom is exciting, but it can also be stressful. You’re adjusting to a major change in your life. Meanwhile, your hormones are in flux, and you may be seriously sleep-deprived. It’s understandable if you occasionally feel a little blue or anxious. But sometimes a more serious, long-lasting form of anxiety or depression can develop.
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Menstrual cycles vary from woman to woman. What’s a normal cycle? And what’s something you should get checked out? Here’s how to tell the difference.
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Folate, a type of B vitamin, helps the body make new red blood cells. Not getting enough folate is a serious issue, as it can lead to anemia and other health problems.
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Ask women their health fears, and breast cancer often tops the list. But twice as many will eventually succumb to stroke. Each year, more women than men die of stroke. What’s more, strokes are the leading cause of preventable disability in the U.S.
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