Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is seldom fully understood, despite affecting approximately 3% of pregnancies in the U.S. each year, leading to more than 160,000 emergency room visits. Commonly mislabeled as severe morning sickness, HG manifests as debilitating nausea and vomiting that can strike mothers-to-be persistently, making it impossible for many to maintain their usual daily activities.
Women’s Health
Before the journey into motherhood began, the concept of postpartum depression (PPD) felt distant, almost abstract. It was discussed in hushed tones among a select group of friends, often laced with shame as if acknowledging it would somehow diminish the joy of having a baby. Common narratives painted a somber picture: mothers struggling to bond
The arrival of the third trimester can feel like both an exciting and overwhelming experience for expectant parents. With the baby’s impending arrival, a flurry of tasks fill the calendar—preparing the nursery, sending out thank-you notes for baby shower gifts, and drafting birth and postpartum plans, to name just a few. Amidst this whirlwind, it’s
The transformative journey into parenthood is profound and deeply impactful, yet modern societal expectations often downplay the significance of rest during the postpartum phase. While many cultures, particularly indigenous practices, emphasize a dedicated period of nurturing and recovery postpartum—typically spanning 40 days—Western society frequently imposes the opposite expectation: a swift return to the hustle and
The journey of motherhood is transformative, fraught with challenges, yet laden with joy. One of the most critical phases is the postpartum period, often overlooked in modern society. Traditionally celebrated in various cultures, the practice known as “Sitting the Month” or Zuo Yuezi in Chinese medicine is a holistic approach to postpartum recovery that emphasizes
Bringing a new life into the world is a transformative experience, yet the joys of motherhood can often be accompanied by unexpected challenges. For many new mothers, one such challenge is experiencing postpartum night sweats. You might find yourself waking up in the middle of the night feeling uncomfortably warm, drenched in sweat, and simply
The pregnant population has faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led health organizations to advocate strongly for the COVID-19 vaccination among expectant mothers. Multiple studies have pointed toward the safety of these vaccines during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester—a time when many women are often apprehensive about receiving any form of
While progress has been made in various healthcare sectors, maternal health remains a daunting challenge in the United States, particularly for marginalized groups. The journey of women like Mimi Evans highlights a grim reality: many are compelled to take extreme measures just to secure a safe and dignified birthing experience. Evans’ story not only reflects
Noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) tests have emerged as a popular tool for pregnant individuals seeking reassurance about their baby’s health. Offered during the first trimester, these tests analyze a small sample of the mother’s blood to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome. While intended to provide peace of mind, increasing scrutiny surrounding
As cannabis gains acceptance throughout the United States, it enters discussions that would have been considered taboo just a few decades ago. The transition from an illicit substance to a medically and recreationally acceptable option has brought forth a nuanced dialogue about its implications, particularly regarding pregnancy. Expectant mothers are increasingly reporting their use of