Prevention & Wellness

May 11, 2022

What to Expect When You’re Expecting During Hurricane Season 2022

Hurricane season is starting, and for pregnant women, it’s important to take extra steps to ensure everything goes smoothly, whether you are evacuating or staying.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, 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 14, 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.

By O'Neil "Jay'' Parenton III, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 28, 2021

Is Getting the Flu Shot While Pregnant Safe?

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to getting the flu shot while pregnant. Many pregnant women are concerned about the safety of the vaccine for their developing baby.

By Ashley Van Wormer, MD

Women's Health

Sep 21, 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

Aug 4, 2021

What Does It Mean to Be Baby-Friendly?

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for infant feeding and mother/baby bonding.

By Natasha Goss-Voisin, MD

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.

By Matt Reynolds, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jul 6, 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 28, 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

Jun 2, 2021

Are You Pregnant with Your Second Child and Feel Exhausted?

Many mothers pregnant with their second child experience excessive fatigue.

By Benjamin J Dorton, 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 16, 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

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 12, 2021

Can My Mental Health Condition Be Passed Down Genetically?

This is a common thought for someone with a family history of mental illness. We have some answers.

By Jill West, PHD

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

Nov 23, 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 12, 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 8, 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

Nov 3, 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 28, 2021

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

Women's Health

Oct 28, 2021

What is a Midwife?

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

By Lindsey Hill, CNM

Prevention & Wellness

Sep 28, 2020

Newborns and Whooping Cough: Why You Should Vaccinate While Pregnant

Given to pregnant women, the Tdap vaccination can protect newborn babies against whooping cough.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 15, 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

Women's Health

Sep 4, 2020

Can a Peanut Ball Reduce Labor Time?

The peanut ball is an oblong, peanut-shell-shaped ball that may help progress labor by opening a laboring mother's pelvic outlet, making it easier for their baby to come down the birth canal.

By Diana Farge, MD

Health Trends

Sep 9, 2021

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

Sep 4, 2020

Are You Still Dealing with Back Pain After Pregnancy?

Almost every new mom can relate to back pain during pregnancy as your baby grows, but what if the pain doesn’t go away after your little one arrives?

By Natalia M. Jolliff, DO

Women's Health

Sep 4, 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

Sep 4, 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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Nov 17, 2021

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

Nov 23, 2021

Digital Trends in Pregnancy Care

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

Prevention & Wellness

Dec 28, 2021

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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Nov 1, 2021

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

Oct 16, 2020

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

Oct 16, 2020

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

Oct 28, 2021

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

Sep 4, 2020

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

Nov 29, 2021

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

Dec 28, 2021

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

Food & Fitness

Oct 28, 2021

Meals for Gestational Diabetes During the Holidays

I was recently diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and it was a complete surprise. I did not have any symptoms – although, that’s often the case – and I didn’t have it with my first pregnancy. I quickly became flooded with mixed emotions and a lot of questions: What are the risks to my baby? What are my risks post-delivery? What can I eat?

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 4, 2020

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

Women's Health

Sep 4, 2020

First Pregnancy? 7 Questions to Ask Your OB

If you’re experiencing pregnancy for the first time, below are some questions and topics to discuss with your OB/GYN on your first visit, in addition to some answers to help give you a head start.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD

Parenting

Sep 4, 2020

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

Sep 4, 2020

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.

By Stacy Swanson

Women's Health

Sep 4, 2020

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