Should I breastfeed my baby? What are the health benefits?
Breast milk has the perfect balance of nutrients for our babies. It is encouraged by the American Academy of Pediatrics, to be the only food offered in the first 6 months, with a slow introduction of iron enriched foods after that. The longer a mother breastfeeds, the more likely her child will get the health benefits of breastfeeding.
The benefits mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg. Breastfeeding also has numerous benefits for the mother. A mom’s confidence increases as she provides all the nutrients that her child needs and results in fewer feelings of anxiety and a stronger sense of connection with her baby. This feeling sets the health and mental health of both baby and mother for years to come. Not only is she more confident, but breastfeeding has health benefits for her too.
Breastfeeding decreases the risk of breast and uterine cancers, she loses weight more naturally and her uterus returns to normal size more quickly, and her risk of developing osteoporosis is decreased.
For more information about breastfeeding, please consult with a member of our team.
When should my teen age daughter see a gynecologist? Should she be on birth control? How do we choose the right one?
It is very important to be proactive and schedule an appointment for her to see a gynecologist as soon as possible.
At Halifax Health – Care for Women we talk with all of our teenage patients about safe sex, peer pressure and the responsibility that goes along with deciding to have sex. We discuss the physical and emotional adjustments that happen when they choose to have sex, the power of social media and the importance of making plans for their future, especially for college and continued education.
There are several options for birth control and there is no perfect option that fits the needs of every woman. It is important to ask your provider about the risks and benefits associated with each choice. You should choose a birth control option that fits their lifestyle and makes them feel better, never worse.
I took a home pregnancy test and it was positive. I have so many questions and don’t know what to do first. When should I see an obstetrician for the first time? Why is prenatal care so important?
If your home pregnancy test is positive, you should schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN and start taking prenatal vitamins as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so.
By the time you have missed your period you are already considered 4-5 weeks pregnant. We like to see our newly pregnant patients as early as possible, but certainly by the 12th week.
Prenatal care is important for so many reasons, yet the most important part of prenatal care is having a guide to help you through a healthy pregnancy. Your body goes through many changes when you get pregnant, which can be overwhelming. It is important to have a skilled provider to remind you of what is normal and what needs additional attention.
Your obstetrician is there to help you make the best choices for you and your baby. Early and consistent prenatal care is directly associated with healthier moms and babies.
The more you communicate with your provider, the more they can help you have a fantastic pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.
