Med-Vision for Mommies, May 2012
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Financial Health: The Fiscally Fit Mommy Part 3
Abstract: Last month's article discussed the importance of having a financial plan in place to help you save on pregnancy related items. This article focuses on some of the expenses that moms and couples face during the early years, including children's clothes, bargin shopping, and a financial savings plan for future college expenses....

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Med-Vision for Mommies, April 2012
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Financial Health: The Fiscally Fit Mommy Part 2
Abstract: Last month's article discussed the importance of having a financial plan in place prior to conception to pay for the cost of pregnancy. This article focuses on some of the expenses that moms and couples face during pregnancy, including prenatal vitamins, maternity clothes, and baby gear. Request this article for the full list of tips and strategies for a fiscally fit pregnancy....

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Med-Vision for Mommies, March 2012
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Financial Health: The Fiscally Fit Mommy Part 1
Abstract: Several websites offer a way to calculate the estimated cost of raising a child over an 18-year period. The accuracy of these calculations is debatable, but one thing is for certain: children are expensive at every age! If you are about to embark on parenthood for the first time, or if you are a parent thinking of having another child, you have probably thought about the various expenses of a child. First, it's important to consider the following summary of costs associated with pregnancy...

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Med-Vision for Mommies, February 2012
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Heart Health and Kids
Abstract: Heart disease is the number one killer among adult men and women in the U.S. You may find it shocking to know that some children already show early signs of the disease. Children with elevated cholesterol levels, obesity, Type 2 Diabetes and high blood pressure are at an increased risk of developing heart disease. Learn about the role of these conditions and how to create a healthier family...

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Med-Vision for Mommies, January 2012
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

The Preconception Visit
Abstract: Preconception health includes steps taken prior to pregnancy to get your health on track. Getting your health in order prior to pregnancy helps promote healthier moms, babies and families. The goal is to examine all aspects of a woman's health to see what areas may require improvement. If you are considering starting a family in the near future, make an appointment for preconception care to determine what steps you can take to prepare your body for a potential pregnancy. ....

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Med-Vision for Mommies, December 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Prenatal Testing - What You Need to Know
Abstract: Good prenatal care includes certain tests to check for potential problems. Early detection can help your physician teat you and your baby accordingly to prevent complications. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the March of Dimes recommend that all pregnant women have the option of receiving certain prenatal tests. Benefits, risks, and the estimated accuracy of each test should be explained in detail to help you make the best decision for your pregnancy. You and your partner can also research credible sites and discuss any concerns with your physician regarding prenatal testing....

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Med-Vision for Mommies, November 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Prenatal Appointments
Abstract: Your health, and the care you receive, directly affect the health of your growing baby. Prenatal appointments help create healthy babies and avoid pregnancy related problems by taking proactive steps when it comes to the mother's overall well being. Good prenatal care consists of health promoting practices and counsel on avoidance of certain behaviors and actions deemed potentially harmful. Early and regular prenatal care is important to ensuring that you are checked periodically and that concerns are addressed immediately. This helps you and your baby avoid risk for complications....

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Med-Vision for Mommies, October 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Importance of Prenatal Vitamins
Abstract: While a healthy diet is the best way to consume essential vitamins and minerals, many fall short of the daily recommendations. A prenatal vitamin can provide the extra nutrients needed to give your growing baby the best start possible. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Mayo Clinic, and the March of Dimes recommend that women trying to conceive start taking prenatal vitamins at least three months prior to ideal conception time. Essential nutrients during pregnancy. Learn about the essential nutrients and what vitamins to avoid during pregnancy....

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Med-Vision for Mommies, September 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Pregnancy and Exercise
Abstract: The March of Dimes (MOD), the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) all agree that exercise is a health promoting activity that can benefit the health of both mother and unborn child. By following a few recommendations and checking with your obstetrical team, most women can enjoy physical activity throughout their pregnancy. Learn about the benefits, recommendations, and precautions for exercise during pregnancy...

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Med-Vision for Mommies, August 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

It's National Immunization Month!
Abstract: National Immunization Month raises awareness and recognizes the importance of vaccines, while also celebrating the success our nation has seen in the reduction and eradication of certain diseases because of immunizations. This full article will help you understand how vaccines work, why you should vaccinate, where to get credible vaccination information, and also what to know about pregnancy and vaccines...

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Med-Vision for Mommies, July 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Celiac Disease and Your Health
Abstract: Celiac disease is an inability to digest the gluten protein. If you have celiac disease and gluten is introduced into the body, an immune response will take place. This autoimmune response attacks your normal tissues and prevents proper absorption of nutrients, resulting in a malnourished state. Learn about possible symptoms and treatments of Celiac disease...

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Med-Vision for Mommies, June 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

June is Home Safety Month
Abstract: There are several home safety issues to consider with babies and young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that unintentional injuries are the leading causes of death and disability in children. The Home Safety Council, the Mayo Clinic, the CDC and the March of Dimes offer specific advice on how to protect your young children from various dangers in the home. Topics include: Poison Prevention, Water Safety, Choking and Suffocation, and Safe Sleeping...

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Med-Vision for Mommies, May 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

March is National Nutrition Month
Abstract: While all types of illicit drugs can be very dangerous and even fatal to your developing baby, legal drugs and chemicals also pose a danger and adverse effects. It is important to remember that anything and everything you put into your body during pregnancy affects your unborn baby.

Experts on pregnancy, including the March of Dimes (MOD) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that expectant mothers and those trying to conceive should avoid alcohol. No amount of alcohol during pregnancy is considered safe. Alcohol can prevent proper delivery of oxygen and nutrition to the developing fetus, resulting in an array of developmental problems in utero. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) impairs mental health in children whose mothers drank heavily during their pregnancy. The problems associated with FAS are irreversible, but FAS is completely preventable when you completely avoid alcohol during pregnancy. The damage that alcohol consumption can have on the developing baby depends on the stage of the baby's development when the alcohol is consumed, the amount the mother consumes, and various biological and environmental factors. Alcohol consumption also increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm birth…

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Med-Vision for Mommies, April 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Nutrition
Abstract: This month is National Nutrition Month! The American Dietetic Association encourages people to improve their diets and improve their overall health and wellbeing. Pregnancy is the perfect time to pay more attention to what you eat to make sure you are giving the best to your growing baby. Important Micro-Nutrients for Pregnancy Proper nutrition is essential to a healthy pregnancy. Improving your eating habits prior to pregnancy is ideal, and your physician can help put you on the right track. Because your growing baby depends on you to receive the nourishment he or she needs, what you choose to eat and drink affects your child's growth and development…

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Med-Vision for Mommies, March 2011
By Regina Novak, B.S., M.P.H., Health Educator for Med-Vision

Infertility Awareness
Abstract: Couples who have been unable to conceive after six to twelve months of unprotected sex may have a fertility problem. A fertility problem does not necessarily mean that a couple will not be able to have a baby. The best way to deal with infertility is to determine the root cause, and then you can explore ways that you and your healthcare team can help conception occur. There are several factors that can contribute to infertility. Couples that are having challenges conceiving should see their physician to help determine the cause of infertility. Some common causes include:

-Age: Couples over 35 should consider an evaluation if they have not conceived after 6 months of unprotected sex.

-Sperm health: Low sperm count or poor sperm motility can impede conception.

-Sexually transmitted diseases: Certain STD's left untreated can cause infection or scarring in the fallopian tubes, which can lead to infertility because of scarring and blocked tubes.

-Abnormal hormone levels: In men, abnormal hormone levels may affect sperm health. In women, hormone levels could affect the production of eggs, ovulation, and menstrual cycles.

-Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a painful condition where the endometrium (the lining of your uterus) grows outside the uterus. This can cause fertility problems in some women.

-Unmanaged chronic diseases and/or prescription drugs: Certain conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can affect fertility when not managed and controlled.

-Lifestyle factors: Factors such as being underweight or overweight, poor nutrition, smoking, drugs, and alcohol can also decrease your overall fertility.

-Environmental conditions: Exposure to certain chemicals and hazards affects fertility. …

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