Pregnancy
Summer Pregnancy Survival Guide: A Candid Consult
Let’s face it, being pregnant during the summer months can be rough. Your body temperature is already elevated during pregnancy, and the summer heat can make things even more uncomfortable.
In this edition of Candid Consult, Dr. Jessica Arendal of Axia Women’s Health Garden State OB/GYN (who’s also a mama-to-be!) answers some FAQs and shares her personal tips for beating the heat and staying healthy throughout your summer pregnancy.
Q: Are there heat-related health conditions pregnant women should watch out for?
A: The biggest concern we have during the summer months is the risk of dehydration. I encourage my pregnant patients to drink way more water than they think they need to, especially during the summer. It’s common to feel dizzy, light-headed, and faint during pregnancy if you don’t have proper hydration. It’s important to stay ahead of it, by hydrating as much as possible.
It’s also possible that dehydration can cause Braxton Hicks contractions (or false labor contractions). When a woman’s body is dehydrated, she secretes a hormone that looks like oxytocin, which can trick the body into thinking it’s going into labor. If this happens, I’ll advise my patients to sit down, rest, and drink two big glasses of water. If the contractions do not subside, then we may bring her into the office for evaluation.
Women may also notice increased swelling, which is completely normal and nothing to be worried about. If the swelling becomes bothersome, it’s best to lay down and keep your feet elevated.
Q: Is it safe to travel during the summer months when pregnant?
A: As always, I would recommend discussing any travel plans with your provider first. If you are considering traveling, it’s generally best to do this during the second trimester when you’re feeling well. We advise women against traveling longer distances when they are 36 weeks pregnant or more.
If you’re traveling by airplane or car, it’s important to take frequent breaks and to get up and stretch in order to avoid developing blood clots. To further reduce your risk of blood clots, it’s important to drink lots of fluids, wear loose-fitting clothing and compression stockings.
It’s also best to avoid vacation activities that could pose risk of accidents like jet skiing, boating, as well as roller coasters.
Finally, it’s important to make sure you’re staying safe against the coronavirus. Pregnant women may choose to get a COVID-19 vaccine to reduce the risk of severe illness from the virus.
Q: Is It safe to wear sunscreen during pregnancy?
A: Not only is it safe to wear sunscreen during pregnancy, but it is also recommended. Broad-spectrum sunscreens provide protection against UVA/UVB rays and can help prevent hyperpigmentation or dark skin patches, which is common during pregnancy. You can also protect your skin by wearing light, loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics like linen.
Q: Is it safe to exercise outside during a summer pregnancy?
A: If you were physically active before pregnancy, there’s no risk in continuing your exercise routine as long as you are doing so safely. A great option for working out outdoors is swimming. This can provide a safe, effective workout for your core while also keeping you cool!
Q: Are there certain summer foods that are good to eat when pregnant?
A: It can be difficult to find foods you want to eat if you’re feeling nauseous. During the summer months, I recommend putting lemon in your water and generally eating more fruits and vegetables that have a high water content and can provide hydration.
You can also make your own healthy popsicles at home with fruit or opt for a sugar-free option from the supermarket.
Q: Do you have any tips for getting better sleep during the hot summer months?
A: Sleep is one of the most challenging things when pregnant. During the summer, you may want to keep your bedroom slightly cooler by turning up the air conditioning or sleeping next to a fan. I’ve also found that sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs can help alleviate back or groin pain. And of course, if you’re sleeping with a partner, don’t be afraid to speak up and voice any needs you have.
Author: Jessica Arendal, MD, physician with Garden State OB/GYN of Voorhees
To schedule a consult with Dr. Arendal or one of her teammates at Garden State OB/GYN, schedule online or call (856) 424-3323.
The fertility awareness method (tracking of your menstrual cycle in order to prevent pregnancy) has been gaining traction on TikTok and other social media channels of late. But, does it work? Axia Women's Health OB/GYN, Dr. Daniel DiSabatino, explains what you need to know about the risks/benefits in a recent interview with Yahoo! Swipe through to learn more.
#fertilityawareness #birthcontrol #naturalfamilyplanning #cycletracking #contraception
With many different options for prenatal vitamins available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Swipe right to learn the top expert recommended ingredients to support you and your baby.
Finding a healthcare provider who you trust and feel comfortable with is so important. At Axia Women's Health, we're proud to build relationships that span decades - from puberty through pregnancy. Thank you, Brittney, for sharing your experience with us! 💙
credit: @mrs_kochanski89
‘Tis the season of giving thanks, and we couldn’t be more thankful for our incredible patient community! 🙏🏻💛Thank you for trusting us with your care. Through the happy moments and the sad, from puberty to pregnancy and even into the golden years, through challenges and joyous moments, we thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey.
#thankful #appreciationpost #patientcare #givethanks #pregnancy #obgyn #gynecology
All moms know that holding your baby is an important part of bonding emotionally. But did you know it can also provide physical benefits? Kangaroo Care, a specific form of skin-to-skin contact, can have benefits for both preemies and their parents. Research shows that holding a baby to your bare chest can help regulate the baby's heart rate, breathing, and body temperature as well as promote bonding. To all of the NICU mamas, we see you and salute your strength!
#worldpreemieday💜
Do you know the physical signs of ovulation? If you're trying to get pregnant, tracking ovulation can go a long way to helping you conceive. Beyond that, knowing your ovulation patterns can clue you in on other potential health issues like PCOS or thyroid conditions. Swipe right to learn the signs.
#ovulationtracking #ovulationsigns #TTC #ovulation #ovulationstest #tryingtoconceivetips #tryingtoconceive
Pregnancy and infant loss is a uniquely personal and complicated experience that affects each woman differently. No matter your experience, we're here to remind you that your grief is valid and you're not alone. Save this post as a reminder anytime you need support. <3
#pregnancyinfantlossday
It's sexual health month, so 🎶let's talk about sex 🎶 post-baby. Perhaps, you've had your 6-week-checkup but still aren't feeling ready to be intimate again...that's completely okay!
There's so much to navigate as a new mom. 🤯It can be challenging to find the time or energy to be intimate with your partner. 👩❤️💋👨
But, if you're feeling ready and are bothered by symptoms like pain or discomfort, don't be afraid to speak up! Your Axia Women's Health provider is here to help.
The truth is because PCOS can disrupt your normal menstrual cycle, it can take longer to get pregnant...but it's not impossible! 💫👩🏽🍼
Some women may be able to conceive naturally after managing PCOS symptoms, while others may find help in assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. 🔬
Wherever you are in your journey with PCOS, don't give up hope! 💜 Stay tuned as we shed light on more common myths surrounding PCOS throughout the month.
As incredible as breastfeeding can be for bonding with your baby, it's no secret that it can come with some challenges. That’s why we're sharing our support during #breastfeedingmonth. Whether you breastfeed, chest feed, bottle feed, or do a mix of both, we salute you! Swipe right for some of our favorite resources on this topic.
Many women are seeking to better understand how the Supreme Court reversal of Roe v Wade may impact their reproductive health. At Axia Women’s Health, we’re actively involved in conversations with other leading health authorities and are committed to helping you navigate the future of your care. We’re here for you, and we encourage you to contact your Axia Women’s Health provider to discuss your individual needs.
To learn more about where abortion access currently stands in your state, follow @kaiserfamilyfoundation or visit their website at www.kff.org. News outlets like the @NYTimes also offer up-to-date tracking on their website at www.NYTimes.com.
Please know that birth control (when used for preventing pregnancy) and emergency contraception (like plan B) are not currently banned in any states, though it is an evolving situation, and may change in some states. Please refer to information regarding your specific state’s regulations, or speak with your Axia Women’s Health provider for the most current and accurate information.
Please note: This information is accurate as of July 21, 2022, and may change.
It's true that during pregnancy and around our menstrual cycles our natural balance of progesterone and estrogen can be disrupted. This imbalance can create an ideal environment for Candida fungi, the bacteria involved in yeast infections, to grow. 🤔
Fortunately, several over the counter medications can help the infection clear up within a few days. 💊
But if you're experiencing recurrent infections, it's a good idea to chat with your Axia Women's Health provider. 💬
#yeastinfection #vaginalhealth #whatsupdownthere
The invention of birth control was a game-changer for women's health..in more ways than one. Did you know that certain birth control can provide benefits other than preventing pregnancy?
In fact, up to 50% of birth control users rely on it for reasons other than contraception. Your Axia Women's Health provider can help you learn more and determine the best option for you!
#birthcontrol #periodpain #menstrualmigraine #acne #womenshealth
If the national baby formula shortage is causing you stress, we're here to help. Swipe through for helpful tips and resources from @healthychildrenaap to keep in mind as you navigate this challenging time.
#formulashortage #formulafeeding #infanthealth #parentingtips #parenting #babyhealth
Many women wonder, "is it safe to dye your hair while pregnant?" Daniel DiSabatino, DO, from Axia Women's Health spoke with Forbes Health to shed some light on this frequently asked question. Good news: you don't have to completely forgo your beauty routine while pregnant, but it's best to wait until the second trimester to use any hair dyes or bleach.
#pregnancytips #haircare #beauty #healthylifestyle #pregnancy
Join us next Thursday, May 26 at 12pm ET for a real talk about women's mental health. Megan Lobsinger, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor at Axia Women's Health, will be sharing advice on navigating emotions around infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Have a question you want addressed? Comment below or DM us privately.
#IGLive #mentalhealthmonth #womensmentalhealth
Today, we're honoring all those who "mother." We know each woman's path to motherhood can be different. Whether you've given birth, have experienced loss, are actively trying, or have taken on the role of a mother, we salute you!
#mothersday #mothersday2022 #happymothersday
Have you ever wondered if playing music during pregnancy can support your baby's development? The short answer is: we don't really know, given inconclusive data. But we do know that music can be calming and soothing to the carrier, providing comfort during pregnancy. Dr. Thomas Dardarian, an OB/GYN with Axia Women's Health, spoke with the LoveEvery podcast to further explore the topic of the "Mozart" effect. Visit link in bio to listen to the full podcast.
#pregnancy #mozarteffect #childhooddevelopment #parenting
Reaching the halfway point of pregnancy is an exciting milestone. You’re likely showing more and are starting to feel your baby move and kick.🤰It’s also an important time for a check-in with your healthcare provider for your 20-week ultrasound. Dr. Jennifer Stuck, an OB/GYN with Axia Women's Health, offers advice on what to expect at the visit. Visit link in bio to read the full interview.🔗
Did you know that your menstrual cycle is more than just the main event – your period? It’s actually a series of four different phases that each play a role in your reproductive health. Getting in touch with your cycle can help you with planning for pregnancy and even detecting other health issues. Swipe right to learn more.
#whatsupdownthere #menstrualcycle #vaginalhealth
