Pregnancy
Zika Virus & Pregnancy
The Zika virus is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. For those who show signs of a Zika infection, the illness is often mild. On the other hand, the effects can be devastating for pregnant women. If you’re pregnant—or trying to conceive—the Zika virus is probably a top-of-mind concern when traveling to infected areas. This mosquito-borne virus can have potentially devastating consequences for pregnant women and their babies. It can cause birth defects called microcephaly and other severe brain problems. The virus can also be transmitted sexually, according to the CDC.
Symptoms & Effects
Symptoms of the Zika virus are similar to a mild care of the flu. Most symptoms begin 2-7 days after being exposed to the virus. You can be sick with Zika for several days to a week. The most common signs and symptoms include:
- Headache
- Fever (You may or may not have a fever if you have Zika.)
- Joint or muscle pain
- Pink eye (also called conjunctivitis)
- Rash
Only 20 percent of people infected with the Zika virus will actually become ill, according to Cynthia Moore, M.D., Ph.D., of the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
For pregnant women, the Zika virus during pregnancy causes microcephaly, when a baby’s head is smaller than expected, often times smaller brains that never develop fully. The virus can also be linked to the following:
Zika also may be linked to:
- Growth problems in the womb
- Miscarriage. This is when a baby dies in the womb before 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- Stillbirth. This is when a baby dies in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- Congenital Zika syndrome. This is a group of five health conditions present at birth that are linked to Zika infection during pregnancy. It includes birth defects (like microcephaly) and other health and development problems. Birth defects are health conditions that are present at birth. They change the shape or function of one or more parts of the body, and they can cause problems in overall health, in how the body develops or in how the body works.
About 1 in 10 pregnant women with Zika infection in the United States has a baby with birth defects. Pregnant women with Zika infection during the first trimester may be more likely to have a baby with birth defects than women infected later in pregnancy.
How to Protect You & Your Baby
Protect yourself from the Zika virus by simply not traveling to affected areas. Zika-infested areas currently include the Caribbean, Central America, Brazil, and Fiji. In late July 2016 Miami, Florida had some cases of mosquito-borne transmission of Zika but subsequent increased mosquito control measures have likely lowered the risk of spread. Learn about other areas here.
- Don’t have sex with a male or female partner who may be infected with Zika virus or who has recently traveled to a Zika-affected area. If you do have sex, use a barrier method of birth control every time.]
- If you must travel, use an insect repellent with at least 20% DEET if you are pregnant. Make sure to wear long-sleeved clothing and stay in places that have air conditioning or screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
If you contracted the Zika virus, make sure to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids and take acetaminophen to relieve the fever and pain. If you are pregnant and traveling to an affect area, talk to your OB/GYN provider on best practices to protect you and your baby.
Thank you to Mom.com for featuring us in your latest article about pelvic organ prolapse, a condition that often goes undiscussed. It may sound scary, but with the right support it is manageable! Visit link in bio to read the full article.
#postpartum #postpartumsupport #pelvicorganprolapse #pelvicfloorphysicaltherapy #pregnancysupport
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.
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
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