How to Politely Change Doctors During Pregnancy: A Positive Approach Finding the right healthcare provider during pregnancy is essential for ensuring a smooth and supportive experience. Sometimes, you may feel that your current doctor isn’t the best fit for your needs. Whether it’s a difference in communication style, birthing philosophy,…
Traditionally, pregnancy has been divided into three segments, known as trimesters, each roughly spanning 13 weeks. The first trimester covers conception up to about 12–13 weeks, often encompassing key developmental milestones like the formation of major organs. The second trimester, from around week 13 to 27, is typically marked by…
Breastfeeding while pregnant is generally safe for most women and can even offer benefits for both the nursing child and the growing baby. Many mothers continue to breastfeed throughout pregnancy without complications, as the body adapts to support both lactation and fetal development. However, hormonal changes during pregnancy may lead…
Itchiness during pregnancy is a common symptom that can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort. As the skin stretches to accommodate a growing belly, dryness and sensitivity can lead to itching, especially in areas like the abdomen, breasts, and thighs. Hormonal changes can also contribute by increasing blood flow…
The first ultrasound in pregnancy typically occurs between 6 to 9 weeks of gestation, often called a dating ultrasound. This early scan confirms the pregnancy, estimates the due date, and detects the fetal heartbeat. If a woman has irregular periods or is unsure of her last menstrual period, an ultrasound…
X-rays during pregnancy should be used only when medically necessary, as exposure to radiation carries potential risks to the developing fetus, particularly in the first trimester when organ development is most sensitive. If an X-ray is required for an urgent medical reason, such as a fracture or a serious health…
Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak’s number one piece of advice for pregnancy is simple yet profound: enjoy the journey and don’t let anxiety take over. Pregnancy is a transformative time, and while concerns about health, labor, and the baby’s development are natural, excessive stress can negatively impact both mother and child. By…
In the context of childbirth, station refers to the position of the baby’s presenting part (usually the head) in relation to the mother’s pelvis, specifically the ischial spines. The ischial spines are bony landmarks inside the pelvis that serve as a reference point for measuring how far the baby has…
A Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is the process of delivering a baby vaginally after a previous cesarean section (C-section). Many women who have had a C-section assume that all future deliveries must also be surgical, but in reality, VBAC can be a safe and viable option for many. The…
Pregnancy is traditionally measured in weeks rather than months because it provides a more precise way to track fetal development and medical milestones. A full-term pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, starting from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP). While many people ask, “How many months am I?”…
Exercise during pregnancy offers numerous benefits for both the mother and baby, helping to improve mood, boost energy levels, and support overall health. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and excessive weight gain. Strength training, prenatal yoga, and low-impact exercises like…
Yes, you can drive during pregnancy as long as you feel comfortable and can do so safely. Most women can continue driving throughout their pregnancy, but it’s essential to make adjustments as your body changes. Always wear a seatbelt properly—position the lap belt under your belly, across your hips, and…
Is it safe to travel during pregnancy? For most women, the answer is yes! Whether you’re planning a road trip or flying, the second trimester (weeks 14-28) is often the best time to travel, as morning sickness usually subsides and energy levels are higher. However, it’s important to take precautions—stay…
Prenatal massage is a safe and beneficial therapy for most pregnant women, offering relief from common discomforts such as back pain, swelling, and stress. When performed by a trained prenatal massage therapist, techniques are adapted to accommodate the changes in a pregnant body, avoiding deep pressure on certain areas and…
Moderate coffee consumption during pregnancy is generally considered safe, with most experts, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), recommending a limit of 200 mg of caffeine per day—about one 12-ounce cup of coffee. While excessive caffeine intake has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and…
Why Some Doctors Don’t Like VBAC | Birth, Childbirth & VBAC Explained VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) is a safe and viable option for many women, yet some doctors discourage it. Why? In this video, we dive into the real reasons behind the resistance to VBAC in modern childbirth. From…
A Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is much like a football game—it’s truly a game of inches, where every decision and step counts toward achieving your goal. Just as every play on the field is critical to gaining yardage, every aspect of VBAC preparation—from selecting a supportive healthcare provider to…
Discover the ultimate guide to achieving a successful vaginal birth with this groundbreaking book, co-authored by two leading experts in obstetrics: Yaakov Abdelhak, MD, FACOG, MFM, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and Kristin Mallon, CNM, MS, RNC-OB, a certified nurse midwife. Combining decades of experience, Dr. Abdelhak and Kristin Mallon offer…
