While so much can feel uncertain surrounding labor & delivery (despite even the best birth plans), one thing is for sure: You definitely don't want to be frantically packing your hospital bag in between piercing labor contractions. It is suggested to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go anywhere between weeks 32 and
When Kristin Gaspar went in for her 38-week checkup in June, she expected nothing more than a routine visit. Little did she know, she would be giving birth to her baby girl just hours later. Upon discovering a leftover stitch from her recent cerclage removal and a dilated cervix of 4cm, Kristin was sent to
A native of Jacksonville, Dr. Anita Patel attended Stanton College Prep before earning her bachelor's degree in microbiology and cell science from the University of Florida (GO GATORS!). While completing her medical education on scholarship at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, she discovered an interest in women’s health advocacy and published research regarding
There's a reason that birth control pills have been one of the most popular forms of contraception for decades. (Yes, decades! The pill was legalized in the U.S. way back in the 1960s.) During their childbearing years, many women opt to use oral contraceptives as a way to prevent pregnancy thanks to their availability, ease
Women's healthcare should be safe and convenient — so that your mental health and physical well-being can continue to remain a top priority. As we continue to adapt to our new reality surrounding the spread of COVID-19, we are making every effort to increase access to women’s healthcare during this challenging time. This includes keeping all
The short answer is we do not know at this time. The Centers for Disease Control currently doesn't know if pregnant women have a greater chance of getting sick than the general population, but pregnancy does result in bodily changes that may increase the risk of contracting and having more severe illness with certain viral
Even if you’re well past your teen years and technically outside of the recommended HPV vaccine window (suggested age is 9 to 45 years old), there are still a few things you need to know about the human papillomavirus, a.k.a. the most common sexually transmitted infection out there. It is estimated that 79 million Americans are
Thanks to the new MyFamily app, the health and development of yourself and your growing family is one thing you can easily stay on top of. Parenthood can be one of the most overwhelming jobs on the planet — not only do you have to take care of yourself and tend to your own needs
Building strength and increasing your muscle tone goes well beyond lifting and lunges. For starters? Your pelvic floor. This key group of muscles supports the bladder, bowels, and uterus and plays an integral role in everything from continence to pregnancy to sexual function — and it often gets pushed aside when it comes to your
Whether you were pregnant for only a few weeks or were fortunate enough to get to cuddle your baby for a few days, losing a child via a miscarriage or a post-delivery illness can be a heartbreaking, life-changing experience. Be it an unexpected or planned pregnancy, a special bond materializes almost immediately between you and