Baby's First Year · Parenting · Pregnancy

Fight the Flu: Protect yourself and your family, friends and community

This fall, children are back in the classroom, people are traveling and families are gathering for events. This makes it easier for viruses to spread and doctors expect to see more people sick with the flu this year. Our health promotion specialist Erin Mandel shares some information on the flu and how to protect yourself.… Continue reading Fight the Flu: Protect yourself and your family, friends and community

Pregnancy

Young and pregnant: what to do and where to find help

When you find out you're pregnant, it can be a time of many emotions. You may feel happy and excited, or shocked, confused and upset. Everyone is different. This can also be a time of growth and finding some inner strength you never knew you had. Navigating the decisions ahead can be easier with the… Continue reading Young and pregnant: what to do and where to find help

Baby's First Year · Parenting · Pregnancy

Keep cool in the summer heat

Heat-related illnesses can be very serious. With another summer heatwave on the way, it's important to make a plan to keep your family cool and healthy. Infants, young children and pregnant individuals are at higher risk for heat-related illness, especially if they are dehydrated. Here are some tips to help your family Beat the Heat:… Continue reading Keep cool in the summer heat

Baby's First Year · Breastfeeding · Emotional Health · Nutrition · Parenting · Pregnancy

Did you know? Telehealth Ontario is now Health Connect Ontario!

Times of illness can be very stressful for parents and caregivers. It's normal to feel worried and have lots of questions, such as: How serious are my/my child's symptoms? Do we need to go to a doctor? Is it safe to breastfeed if I'm sick? Who can I contact for health advice and support? If… Continue reading Did you know? Telehealth Ontario is now Health Connect Ontario!

Breastfeeding · Pregnancy

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Caring for Baby when you are COVID-19 Positive

Are you pregnant or a new parent and have COVID-19?  Not sure what you should do? Our nurse Ella Shapiro shares some information that might help. Pregnancy: Getting COVID when you are pregnant can affect the health of you and your baby. Most pregnant people who get COVID-19 will have mild symptoms, but some pregnant… Continue reading Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Caring for Baby when you are COVID-19 Positive

Pregnancy

COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy

Are you or someone you know, pregnant or planning to get pregnant and have questions about taking the COVID-19 vaccine? During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes that may increase the risk of getting sick, including getting viral respiratory infections. The COVID-19 vaccines are very effective in preventing infection. According to the Ministry of… Continue reading COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy

Pregnancy

COVID-19 vaccine and fertility

A common question I'm asked about the COVID-19 vaccine is "how does it affect my fertility" or "will it affect my reproductive health"? Rumours or misinformation about vaccines and the possible impacts it has on fertility or reproductive health, make it hard for people to make an informed decision. It's important to consider the facts… Continue reading COVID-19 vaccine and fertility

Parenting · Pregnancy

Pregnancy and alcohol: Do they mix?

September is FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) awareness month with September 9th designated as International FASD Awareness Day.  This day was started as a reminder that pregnancy and alcohol don't mix. Why pregnancy and alcohol don't mix: Alcohol can pass from the mother's blood into the baby's blood and affect the growth of the baby's… Continue reading Pregnancy and alcohol: Do they mix?

Parenting · Pregnancy

Giving birth in a new land

Being pregnant and giving birth in a new country can be exciting, stressful and scary at the same time. Prenatal care, birth practices, and traditions surrounding the birth of your baby can differ from country to country. Many individuals face challenges adjusting to their new country. For example, language barriers, employment, financial worries and lack… Continue reading Giving birth in a new land

Baby's First Year · Emotional Health · Parenting · Pregnancy

Tips to help manage postpartum anxiety and depression

Mood struggles during pregnancy and after the birth of a baby are very common. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on many challenges to families as well, and there has been an increased need for mental health support. There are many wellness strategies that can go a long way in battling back against the symptoms of… Continue reading Tips to help manage postpartum anxiety and depression