Women's Health

Aug 9, 2023

What Is the Best Way to Increase My Chances of Getting Pregnant?

Preparing your body for pregnancy can take time. Here are steps to follow to create the best environment for growing a baby inside you.

By Robin Bone, MD

Prevention & Wellness

May 30, 2023

Best Tips to Prepare for 2023 Hurricane Season When You Are Pregnant

Hurricane season is starting, and for pregnant women, it’s important to take extra steps to ensure everything goes smoothly.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD

Women's Health

May 29, 2023

What Are the Top Signs and Symptoms to Know if I Am Pregnant?

Each woman experiences pregnancy differently, and women experience various symptoms throughout pregnancy, some ranging from standard to uncommon. It is important to know the symptoms or early signs of pregnancy.

By Wyeth Lawson, MD

Women's Health

Mar 30, 2023

Are You Still Dealing with Back Pain After Pregnancy?

Most new moms can relate to back pain during pregnancy. What if the pain doesn’t go away after your little one arrives? Learn more about treatment options.

By Charles Yu, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 23, 2023

Insomnia During Pregnancy: 9 Tips for the Best Night's Sleep

Several factors can contribute to insomnia during pregnancy. Trouble sleeping can begin as early as the first trimester as hormone levels begin to change and can persist into in the third trimester.

By Stephanie Heaney, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 14, 2023

A Dietitian Picks the 7 Best Prenatal Vitamins | 2023

If you are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant, a prenatal vitamin can be an essential part of your healthcare routine. Here are our top picks.

By Kelly Forschler

Women's Health

Mar 13, 2023

How to Beat Exhaustion If You Are Pregnant with Your Second Child

Many mothers pregnant with their second child experience excessive fatigue. Learn the causes and tips to help with exhaustion.

By Benjamin J Dorton, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 10, 2022

Top 10 Questions Expecting Moms Ask

From when you should let others know you are pregnant to what essentials you need on delivery day, we're answering your top questions as an expecting mom.

By Jennifer Brunet, MD

Women's Health

Nov 7, 2022

7 Important Questions You Want to Ask During Your First Pregnancy

First pregnancy? Here are 7 questions you'll want to ask your OB/GYN.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD

Women's Health

Oct 21, 2022

What Is a Nurse-Midwife and Should I Choose One?

Thinking about having a baby? Wondering what your birthing options are? A nurse-midwife may be the right choice for your maternity healthcare and beyond.

By Lindsey Hill, CNM

Women's Health

Oct 4, 2022

Can a Peanut Ball Reduce Labor Time?

Looking to shorten your labor time? This peanut-shell-shaped ball may help.

By Diana Farge, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Sep 21, 2022

Is Getting the Flu Shot While Pregnant Safe?

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to getting the flu shot while pregnant. Learn why pregnant and nursing women should make an extra effort to get the flu vaccine.

By Ashley Van Wormer, MD

Food & Fitness

Sep 13, 2022

Curb Walking: What Is It and Can It Help Induce Labor?

What can be done to give the birthing process a little nudge? One “natural” technique to induce labor is curb walking.

By Lydia Lewis, MD

Mental Health

Sep 12, 2022

Can My Mental Health Condition Be Passed Down Genetically?

If you've ever struggled with mental health, you might be wondering if mental health conditions can be passed down genetically. We have answers.

By Justin Carreras, PhD

Prevention & Wellness

Aug 3, 2022

Why Adults Might Need the Whooping Cough Vaccine Again

Babies younger than two months old are most vulnerable to whooping cough, which is why Tdap vaccination during pregnancy is an effective way to protect infants.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD

Prevention & Wellness

May 23, 2022

The Benefits of Prenatal Massages

Prenatal massages are specifically for those expecting and can be a helpful tool in relieving common pregnancy-related complaints.

By Courtney Ring and Katherine Ayo-Rayburn, MD

Women's Health

May 2, 2022

Maternal Mental Health: Why It Matters

Many new moms experience the baby blues, while still others suffer from postpartum depression. Learn how to recognize the symptoms and what to do next.

By Cassie Rockweiler, LCSW, MSW

Women's Health

Feb 25, 2022

Expecting Mom Spends 50 Days in the Hospital Leading up to Delivery

Barbara Blank had a rare but serious condition that put her in the hospital at Ochsner Baptist at 29 weeks. Barbara shares her journey and the love and compassion showed to her by the Ochsner Baptist team.

Conditions & Treatment

Feb 22, 2022

Can I Take Alka Seltzer While Pregnant?

If you suffer from heartburn during pregnancy, you may be wondering if you can take medication like Alka Seltzer to help soothe the symptoms. Here is what you need to know about taking heartburn medication during pregnancy.

By Jill Berger, MD

Women's Health

Feb 21, 2022

What Do Contractions Feel Like?

As you near your due date, your nerves may start kicking in. Every little feeling might make you think you are going into labor, and you may be wondering what true contractions will feel like. Here is what you need to know to prepare yourself.

By Santo Paniello, MD

Women's Health

Feb 11, 2022

What to Expect at Your 20-Week Ultrasound (for Pregnant Women)

A 20-week ultrasound provides a detailed look at how your baby is developing. Knowing what the ultrasound entails and what questions to ask is important in preparing.

By Natasha Goss-Voisin, MD

Women's Health

Nov 1, 2021

Fertility Preservation Options for Women

Prolonging the ability to have children is becoming an increasingly popular option for many people. Whatever the reason may be, there are fertility preservations options available.

Women's Health

Sep 20, 2021

Advanced Maternal Age: What Does that Mean?

According to the National Institutes of Health, more and more women in high-income countries are delaying childbirth for lifestyle reasons and personal choice.

By Wendy Holden-Parker, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Sep 14, 2021

Tips For Keeping Your Baby Flu-Free

Pregnant or nursing women should make an extra effort to get the flu vaccine.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Cindy Boudreaux, RN

Women's Health

Jul 15, 2021

Should I Try Natural Childbirth?

Natural childbirth is a popular choice for many women who desire a vaginal delivery without pain medication or medical intervention.

By Jill Bader, MD

Women's Health

Jul 13, 2021

Can Pregnant Women Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Following the guidelines from the FDA, no one is excluded from receiving the vaccine, even patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pregnant patients should discuss with their physician individual risk factors to make an informed decision about possible vaccinations.

By Joseph Biggio, MD and Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Women's Health

Jul 6, 2021

Best Sleep Positions During Pregnancy

Doctors have updated their advice on sleep positions for expecting mothers.

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 23, 2021

Smoking While Pregnant: Learn the Facts

One of 10 pregnant women smoke, adding up to 500,000 babies per year whose health could be negatively affected.

By Gregory Morris, MD

Women's Health

Jun 21, 2021

Things You Don't Expect After Giving Birth

We often don't talk about what to expect in the days, weeks or even months after giving birth. Here are 15 things you might not expect after giving birth.

By Katherine Ayo-Rayburn, MD

Women's Health

Jun 15, 2021

Can I Eat During Labor?

For years, pregnant women were advised to fast during labor, but is that still the case?

By Theresa Brignac, MD

Women's Health

May 27, 2021

Signs You Are Going into Labor

If you are expecting, knowing when to go to the hospital can be a difficult decision. Here are signs you are going into labor.

By Caitlyn Ranger, MD

Women's Health

May 20, 2021

Braxton Hicks Contractions vs. True Labor

Braxton Hicks contractions are the unpredictable, sporadic and usually non-rhythmical contractions that occur during pregnancy. So how do you know the difference between Braxton Hicks and real labor contractions?

By Caitlyn Ranger, MD

Health Trends

May 19, 2021

Do Moms Face Work Discrimination?

It’s illegal for an employer to treat an employee unfairly. Workplace discrimination against moms is most often classified as sex or pregnancy discrimination.

By Deborah Grimes

Women's Health

Apr 12, 2021

Pregnancy Complications Black Women Should Know About

If you’re Black and pregnant, hoping to one day become pregnant, or have recently had a baby, being aware of the conditions that disproportionately affect you is critical to maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

By LaTashia Upton, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 1, 2021

Will My Chronic Hypertension Go Away After Pregnancy?

Interventional cardiologist Saira Samani, MD, discusses how mothers who develop high blood pressure during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing heart disease in the future.

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 1, 2021

Are You at Risk for Heart Disease After Pregnancy?

Interventional cardiologist Saira Samani, MD, discusses the risk factor of developing heart disease after pregnancy.

Women's Health

Feb 11, 2021

Tdap Vaccines: Do I Need to be Vaccinated for Every Pregnancy?

It is recommended that expecting mothers receive the Tdap vaccine during every pregnancy, regardless of the time interval between those pregnancies.

Women's Health

Jan 14, 2021

What is the Purpose of First Trimester Ultrasound?

Sukari Theard, maternal-fetal medicine lead sonographer, explains the purpose of the first-trimester ultrasound is to determine an estimated due date and is best performed at eight to 10 weeks of pregnancy.

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 11, 2021

Should Pregnant Women Get a Flu Shot?

OB/GYN Marguerite Demarest Sandow, MD, explains pregnant women are at an increased risk for flu-related complications, and it is important that pregnant women get a flu shot to protect themselves and their babies.

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 10, 2020

Skin Care Product Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

You may be wondering "is all makeup safe to wear during pregnancy?" Check out the list of what skin care ingredients to avoid when pregnant.

By Rajiv Gala, MD

Food & Fitness

Nov 10, 2020

Exercising While Pregnant: Do’s and Don’ts

Working out when you’re expecting isn’t just OK - it’s encouraged.

By Rajiv Gala, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 9, 2020

7 Unexpected Symptoms of the Third Trimester

The last months of pregnancy are often exciting, nerve-racking and physically demanding. Be on the lookout for these seven symptoms.

By Jennifer P Baur, MD

Women's Health

Nov 3, 2020

20 Questions I’m Too Embarrassed to Ask My Gynecologist

Going to the gynecologist for the first or 10th time can be awkward, but it doesn’t have to be a bad experience. To help cast away your fears, here are answers to 20 questions you might be too embarrassed to ask before your visit.

By Victoria McHenry, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 2, 2020

Heart Disease in Pregnancy

Some pregnant women with heart disease can face serious complications while they are expecting, and it can cause lifelong, adverse health effects in both the mother and child.

By Ivana Okor, MD and Salima Qamruddin, MD, MPH and Elizabeth R. Lapeyre, MD

Women's Health

Oct 29, 2020

How to Manage Labor Pain

If you’re about to become a new mom, you’re probably busy making preparations and getting your home ready for those first few months. But have you planned for how you will manage labor pain?

By Julie Jeansonne, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 27, 2020

7 Things That Make Pregnancy Easier

One way to make pregnancy easier is with Ochsner’s Connected MOM (that’s short for Connected Maternity Online Monitoring).

By Caitlyn Ranger, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 14, 2020

What Are Symptoms for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 women. While PCOS can affect your overall health, appearance and fertility, there are treatment options your gynecologist can offer.

By Angela Parise, MD

Health Trends

Jul 30, 2020

What to Pack in Your Maternity Bag During COVID

Packing your hospital bag may seem overwhelming with new regulations in place to protect patients from COVID-19. Check out this list for all your must haves.

By Jill Berger, MD

Women's Health

Jun 24, 2020

Choosing the Right Doctor for You and Your Baby

What should you ask an OB/GYN when trying to decide the right doctor/patient fit?

By Sheena Pullman, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 29, 2020

What Medications You Should Avoid While Pregnant

It’s generally recommended to avoid medicines during pregnancy, but if you need to take something, it’s essential you know what your safest options are.

By Daniel P. Mokry, MD

Women's Health

Dec 9, 2019

9 Early Signs of Pregnancy

If you haven’t taken a pregnancy test or had an ultrasound to confirm it yet, you might have experienced a few symptoms that have you wondering “Am I pregnant?” There are a few signs that could point to the possibility.

By Danielle Cooper, MD

Women's Health

Oct 29, 2019

Coping with Infant and Pregnancy Loss

If you or your loved ones have suffered the loss of a child or pregnancy, you aren’t alone and there are resources to help you through your grief journey.

By Natasha Goss-Voisin, MD

Women's Health

Nov 30, 2018

What to Expect When Having Twins

From what to expect during your visits with your obstetrician to what to eat, here are a few things you need to know.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Aug 21, 2018

Preeclampsia: Signs and Symptoms

Learning more about the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia can help you identify a problem early and ensure the best possible outcome.

By Rajiv Gala, MD

Food & Fitness

Jul 24, 2018

Can You Eat Seafood During Pregnancy?

Craving seafood during pregnancy? Here are a few options that are safe to eat.

By Sheena Pullman, MD

Health Trends

Jan 22, 2018

Digital Trends in Pregnancy Care

Today’s mothers-to-be have so many convenient digital tools at their fingertips.

Prevention & Wellness

Aug 4, 2017

Your First Trimester Checklist

Get your pregnancy off to a healthy start by following these five important to-dos.

By Brooke Schexnaildre, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jul 26, 2017

Checklist: Your Birth Plan

Plan ahead for the delivery of your baby with this birth plan checklist to help ensure smooth sailing on the big day.

By Rajiv Gala, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jun 22, 2017

Fetal Echocardiogram FAQs

Answering important questions about fetal echocardiograms, or prenatal ultrasounds used to look for heart problems in utero.

By Diego Lara, MD, MPH

Women's Health

May 30, 2017

What to Expect When You're Expecting at Ochsner

Check out all the must-know delivery info to learn what you can expect when you deliver at Ochsner.

Food & Fitness

Apr 3, 2017

Pregnancy Cravings: What Do They Mean?

We don’t know exactly what causes food cravings, but they may be related to hormones that are active in pregnancy.

By Troy Drewitz, MD

Women's Health

Feb 8, 2017

7 Things to Do Before You Get Pregnant

Aside from the obvious prenatal supplements, here are a few things you should do while you are preparing to get pregnant.

By Anh-Van Mai, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 18, 2017

Tips For Growing a Healthy Baby Bump

Essential pregnancy nutrition tips to help keep your weight gain in check, keep your baby safe and healthy, and prepare you for the demands of labor.

By John McCrossen, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 30, 2016

Cancer During Pregnancy is Treatable

Although cancer in pregnant women is not common, it is not extraordinarily rare either. The good news is that treatments are possible

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 6, 2016

Woman Living With Marfan Syndrome Gives Birth to Baby Boy

Living with Marfans syndrome, Elizabeth Smith wanted kids but also was aware that she and her husband would face some difficulties due to the genetic disorder.

Women's Health

Aug 11, 2016

Pregnancy Tests: 4 Common Questions Answered

When should you take a pregnancy test and how do you know your result is accurate?

By Amy Truitt, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 23, 2015

How to Deal with Back Pain During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is full of surprises and back pain is one of them. Many women experience back pain during the course of their pregnancy. We all hear about it, but why does it happen?

By Shellie P. Rovelo, PT, DPT

Parenting

Dec 22, 2014

Is It Easier or Harder to Get Pregnant the 2nd Time?

The answer starts with "it depends"...The younger you are, the easier it is to get pregnant and, in general, it may become harder to conceive as you age.

Women's Health

Oct 24, 2014

First Day Back After Maternity Leave

Going back to work after maternity leave is really difficult. Here's my take on returning after my second child.

Women's Health

Aug 25, 2014

Is It OK to Schedule a C-Section for Convenience?

Dr. Erin Dauterive, OB/GYN discusses whether it's okay to schedule a C-section for convenience, or if it could potentially harm you or your baby.

By Erin Dauterive, MD