Category Archives: OB/GYN & Maternity

Maternal health in Harris County

By Carolina Boyd The health of mothers and their children is a reflection of the overall health of a community. Despite the number of hospitals and medical facilities across Harris County, the incidence of maternal morbidity is high in our area. Maternal morbidity refers to the unexpected, and dangerous, life-threatening complications that arise from pregnancy, …

Breast cancer survivor urges women to be aware of their breast health

By Carolina Boyd, Communications Associate Lakeisha Parker has long made it a habit to do regular breast self-exams; but never did she think that one day it would lead to a breast cancer diagnosis. “I felt something while in the shower. I knew immediately it wasn’t supposed to be there,” said Parker. A visit to …

Breastfeeding Your Baby: Frequently Asked Questions

When you are a new mom, breastfeeding can bring its share of questions. We are answering five of the most common breastfeeding questions that come up. How long should I breastfeed my baby? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of a baby’s life. You should then continue breastfeeding …

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy

By Sean Barrett, Registered Dietitian If you’re pregnant, “eating for two” doesn’t mean eating more than necessary, what matters is if the food is healthy. The caloric needs of an expecting mom will change throughout her pregnancy. Extra calories are not required during a woman’s first trimester. During the second trimester, only an additional 340 …

Dealing with a Urinary Tract Infection

By Carolina Boyd Every year urinary tract infections (UTIs) lead to more than 8 million visits to health care providers in the United States.  For women, the chance of developing a UTI is especially high.  Women have shorter urethras, which allow bacteria quick access to the bladder, causing an infection. To identify a UTI, keep …

What to expect with a newborn

During the first few weeks as a parent, you might question whether certain features or symptoms in your newborn seem normal. Many are a natural part of the transition from birth as your newborn gets used to life in the outside world. Learn more about some common signs below. Your baby’s skin You might notice …

The importance of the well-woman exam

By Dr. Vian Nguyen, Chief Medical Officer We all know how important exercise and diet are when it comes to living a healthy life. However, many of us forget the role of regular check-ups in staying healthy. For women, that means a well-woman exam. A general well-woman exam gives women an opportunity to discuss their …

Healthy Habits to Develop During Early Pregnancy

Watching your diet, exercising and drinking lots of water are good health habits for everyone to develop.  However, if you are pregnant it is especially important to focus on caring for yourself and your baby. We have five healthy habit reminders that may be helpful for expectant moms, especially during early pregnancy. Discontinue harmful habits. …

Safe Slumber: Sleep Tips for your Baby

Updated Feb. 9, 2022 Your baby’s sleep needs changes as they grow. Newborns sleep about 16 hours a day, usually 3 to 4 hours at a time. Don’t be surprised if your baby can only stay awake for an hour or two. Over time, a baby gets into a sleep pattern and will start sleeping …

The Baby Blues or is it Something More?

By Kristina Delhomme, Director—Therapy Services Having a new baby is supposed to be a joyous time. Unfortunately, many families do not get the opportunity to enjoy this time to the fullest. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) such as postpartum depression and anxiety can dim the light of the joy a newborn brings. This is …