Most women will have normal, healthy babies and will not require Chronic Villus Sampling Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or other invasive prenatal tests. However, all couples have a 3 percent chance of having a child with a birth defect and a physician may recommend CVS, a procedure to obtain a small amount of tissue (chorionic villi) from the developing placenta of the fetus … [Read more...] about What is Chorionic villus sampling? And what can I expect?
How long until I deliver? What are the three stages of labor?
While we wish there was one answer for all, every woman’s labor and delivery experiences are different. But how long is a typical labor? What are the stages of labor and delivery? Labor is a series of continuous, progressive contractions of the uterus which help the cervix open (dilate) and to thin (efface). This lets the fetus move through the birth canal. Labor usually … [Read more...] about How long until I deliver? What are the three stages of labor?
How do you know when you’re ovulating?
Although some women can experience spotting, bleeding, and/or minor discomfort in their lower abdomen while ovulating, many may have no symptoms during this time. If you don't show these symptoms, how do you know when you're ovulating? It is important to understand your cycle and when you could be fertile or are most likely to become pregnant. Your cycle starts with the … [Read more...] about How do you know when you’re ovulating?
There are risks to amniocentesis. Do I need an amnio?
Most women will have normal, healthy children and will not require invasive prenatal tests. However, all women have a 3 percent chance that their child will have a birth defect; this is the risk that any woman faces with a pregnancy, regardless of age. Do you need an amnio to determine this risk? Amniocentesis: what is it? Why might you need an amnio? Amniocentesis is a … [Read more...] about There are risks to amniocentesis. Do I need an amnio?
Should I do Kegel exercises during pregnancy?
Kegel exercises during pregnancy may help prevent pelvic floor weakness which can occur after childbirth, which can stretch and weaken pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor muscles are a layer of muscles that support the pelvic organs and can cause urinary control issues after delivery. It can also make your uterus sag, a condition called uterine prolapse. You can help prevent … [Read more...] about Should I do Kegel exercises during pregnancy?