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
Tag: preconception
Two things parents need to quit smoking
When I used to smoke, I felt ashamed. As a nurse, I knew better. My HBHC clients know it too. They agree when I say, "stopping smoking is the single best thing we can do for our health and our children's health." The challenge is to put our knowledge into action. Vaping is sometimes marketed… Continue reading Two things parents need to quit smoking
How to search online for health information
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
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
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
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
Is there a right time to have a baby?
Has your mom told you she's ready for grandkids? Grandma says you need to start having babies before you're too old? Is your partner either super interested or unimpressed with the whole idea? Is it too early or late to get pregnant? Irida, a current nursing student walks us through the meaning of "the right… Continue reading Is there a right time to have a baby?
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
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?