Varicose Veins in Pregnancy
During pregnancy, many changes are occurring in the body, including changes in blood flow. Your blood volume increases, while the rate at which flood flows from your legs will decrease, which can put pressure on the veins. This can cause unwanted varicose veins to appear, which are enlarged veins that can appear on the legs
How to Prepare for Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer
“Breast cancer is definitely the number one cancer that will affect women all over the country, and it’s a topic…near and dear to many people’s hearts because, most likely, you’ve had a family member affected by this disease” (Dr. Stephanie Lam). Because breast cancer is so common, you might be concerned about your risk. Genetic
First Trimester Down Syndrome Screening
What is Down syndrome? Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, occurs when there is an extra chromosome 21 present in the cells of the fetus. This affects how your child develops and functions throughout life. About 1 in every 700 babies is diagnosed with Down syndrome: a rate of less than one percent. The
The 3 Most Common Reasons to Induce Labor
Most pregnant women will go into labor on their own, without any assistance. In some cases, your OB/GYN may recommend inducing your labor. This is done in the hospital using a combination of medications that cause contractions, ultimately leading to cervical dilation and then delivery. Usually, labor induction is recommended when nearing one to two weeks beyond the due date and labor has not begun
CVS and Amniocentesis: What, How, and Why
CVS and amniocentesis are two types of genetic testing that can be used to create a care plan for you and your baby. These tests are not needed for every pregnancy. In an episode of the Healthful Women podcast, Dr. Nathan Fox and MFMA founder and president Dr. Andrei Rebarber discuss who might benefit from
Acrania, Anencephaly, and Encephelocele – Fetal Development
Acrania, anencephaly and encephalocele are part of the subset of birth defects called neural tube defects (NTDs). NTDs occur when the neural tube, a structure that forms the early brain and spine, fails to close within the first month of pregnancy. NTDs are the second most common birth defect in the United States and are