How often do you search online for questions about your health? Have you ever wondered: Is bleach safe to use while I'm pregnant? Can hot yoga affect my fertility? Am I going into labour? It is easy to find answers to questions online, but is it information you can trust? Learning how to find reliable… Continue reading How to search online for health information
Author: Elsa Lam, RN
As a public health nurse at Toronto Public Health's Reproductive and Infant Health program, I really enjoy spending time with families and supporting them as they transition from pregnancy to parenthood. I support families through prenatal classes, breastfeeding partnership clinics and postpartum telephone counselling. I am always open to learning new things and I look forward to sharing what I learn to readers at our Pregnancy to Parenting blog!
Chronic hypertension and planning for a baby
Several families have asked me how high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) can affect their plan to have a baby. When a person has higher than normal blood pressure for a long period of time, it is known as chronic hypertension. Planning the best time to have a baby can be different for each… Continue reading Chronic hypertension and planning for a baby
What is delayed umbilical cord clamping?
A common question from expectant parents in our prenatal program is "when is the best time to cut/clamp baby's umbilical cord?" During pregnancy, the umbilical cord helps move blood, oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby. Shortly after baby is born, their umbilical cord is clamped. Research shows that clamping the umbilical cord at different… Continue reading What is delayed umbilical cord clamping?
Pesticide safety during pregnancy
In the summer, there may be more pests, weeds or fungi in your living spaces. If you choose to use pesticides in or around your home, it is important to use them responsibly and safely. Here are a few tips I share with participants at our prenatal programs, to help protect expectant parents and their… Continue reading Pesticide safety during pregnancy
How do I cope with body changes during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, your body is changing quickly over a short period of time. This can be exciting for some and challenging for others. If you’re struggling to accept these body changes, just know that you’re not alone. It may be easier for expectant parents to accept their body’s changes when they focus on how their… Continue reading How do I cope with body changes during pregnancy?
5 New year resolutions for a healthy pregnancy
What's your New Year resolution? Although many of us may like making New Year resolutions, it's not always easy finding ways to reach those goals.Tips to have a healthy start for a healthy pregnancy: Understand yourselfThe New Year is a perfect time to reflect on what you want. What is important to you right now?… Continue reading 5 New year resolutions for a healthy pregnancy