Alcohol and pregnancy is a topic that has been around for generations. Some common questions and statements related to the use of alcohol during pregnancy include: “Isn’t it OK to have a glass of wine or cider on a special occasion during pregnancy?” “One drink won’t hurt, right?” “My mom drank alcohol when she was… Continue reading Raising awareness about FASD
Author: Katherine Chan, RN
As a Public Health Nurse working with Toronto Public Health, I've had the privilege of working with children and parents in many different capacities over the past 20 years. Most recently, I've had the opportunity to support new families and their children by providing them with the best possible start before, during, and after pregnancy.
I'm also a busy mom of 3 boys. In my spare time, I enjoy jogging, yoga, reading, the outdoors, and spending time with my family.
Medication use when planning a pregnancy
Are you are planning to have a baby or maybe you're just thinking about it and wondering whether the medication you are taking is safe? This is especially important if you have a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure when it is necessary to take medication even when you become pregnant. Making… Continue reading Medication use when planning a pregnancy
Zika virus: Planning a pregnancy & travelling
When my best friend recently shared with me that she and her partner were planning to start a family, I couldn't be happier. This exciting news took a turn when she told me they were travelling to their dream destination spot in South America. Alarm bells went off in my head as I asked if… Continue reading Zika virus: Planning a pregnancy & travelling
FASD: Reduce the risk
Alcohol and pregnancy – a topic that has been around for generations and many people have different opinions on. This is discussed in our prenatal programs, and common questions asked are: "Isn't it OK to have a glass of wine or cider on a special occasion during pregnancy?" "One drink won't hurt, right?" "My mom… Continue reading FASD: Reduce the risk
How can heat affect fertility or pregnancy?
I've had many parents ask me about whether it is safe to practice hot yoga or use hot tubs when pregnant or trying to get pregnant. You've probably heard about the effects of extreme heat on the body such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, but extreme heat can also affect your chances of getting… Continue reading How can heat affect fertility or pregnancy?
Health condition and planning a pregnancy
If you're trying to have a baby or are just thinking about it, it's never too early to start getting ready. Whether you are living with a health condition, or trying to prevent one - it's important to take this time to talk with your health care provider. To help improve your health care experience,… Continue reading Health condition and planning a pregnancy
Oral Health before Pregnancy
Did you know that healthy teeth and gums affects your overall health and well-being? This is especially true if you are pregnant as gum problems can increase the risk of having a pre-term or low birth weight baby. Affected babies are also at a higher risk of having asthma, ear infections, and developmental issues. If… Continue reading Oral Health before Pregnancy
What to eat when trying to get pregnant
Have you heard of the expression, "You are what you eat"? Now, what does it really mean? To put it simply, it means your body gets the nutrients it needs from the foods that you eat. In order to get all these nutrients to stay healthy, we need to eat a variety of foods. This… Continue reading What to eat when trying to get pregnant
Can I drink alcohol if I’m planning a pregnancy or pregnant?
With the holiday season fast approaching, it's a known fact that parties and alcoholic drinks will be a part of the celebrations. But what about drinking alcohol when you're planning a pregnancy? "If I'm not pregnant yet, is it okay to have just one or two drinks?" When it comes to drinking alcohol and planning… Continue reading Can I drink alcohol if I’m planning a pregnancy or pregnant?
How long should I wait to have another baby?
Have you already had a child and you're ready to have another baby? Even if you're just thinking about it, spacing your pregnancies is a good idea. Just how long should you wait before trying again? If you are planning a subsequent pregnancy, it's best to wait & try again within 18 months to 5… Continue reading How long should I wait to have another baby?