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Deciding to have a baby can be exciting! It can also be overwhelming. Some couples are not sure where to begin when they want to conceive. Others may have difficulty with fertility. There are many things to consider before you begin trying for a baby. The following tips will help you get started.

Talk to Your Doctor First

Your OB/GYN should be consulted before you attempt to get pregnant. They can discuss risk factors, genetic testing, lifestyle changes, and more. They can also review any medications you take to ensure they are safe to continue taking during pregnancy. Your doctor will most likely also recommend taking prenatal vitamins months in advance.

Understand the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle can vary for some women. Some are very regular, while others are not. Understanding this process will help tremendously with conception. The cycle begins on the first day bright red blood appears and can last between 21 and 35 days on average. This will affect the timing of conception, so you need to know what’s happening internally to determine when to have sex.

Plan to Have Sex – A Lot

If you want to have a baby, then you need to have sex. Some couples get lucky and conceive quickly. Others must try for a while, so plan to have sex often. The best time is during ovulation.

Studies show maximum fertility occurs 3 to 5 days prior plus the day of ovulation. That means you should plan to have sex 1 to 2 days prior to ovulation. Doctors usually suggest having intercourse every other day during the week before ovulation or after the end of your period.

An OB/GYN can help you learn more about getting pregnant and staying healthy. Give Women’s Health a call to schedule an appointment.

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Approximately 6.1 million American women experience infertility. That equals around 10% of females in the U.S. who are in their childbearing years. Out of those, around 25% are infertile for multiple reasons. Common causes can be age, blocked tubes, or STDs. Even women who have no medical conditions can have difficulty conceiving. So how do you know what is normal and when you should talk to a fertility specialist?

Are You Timing Pregnancy Attempts Correctly?

Timing is crucial when trying to conceive. You should understand the menstrual cycle to know the optimum time for ovulation. A woman is most fertile between days 11 and 21 of her cycle. This is when ovulation typically occurs. There may be variation, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s happening with your body.

How Long Have You Been Trying to Get Pregnant?

Pregnancy isn’t guaranteed to happen the first time you have sex, even if you time ovulation. For many couples, it’s a process that can last months or longer. If you are under age 35 with no medical conditions, then you will likely be expected to try for a year before considering fertility treatment.

If you are over age 35 with no medical conditions, then you may be advised to talk to a fertility specialist after six months of trying. Fertility declines as a woman ages, so it may be harder to conceive if you are in this age group or older.

Know About Fertility Before You Try

Many factors are at play when trying to get pregnant. You should speak and be examined by a Women’s Health OB/GYN before you begin. We can provide advice and do any screenings or tests that could help you understand any challenges you may face as well as any risk factors for your baby. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in our West Bloomfield offices.

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If you are thinking of getting pregnant, definitely make an appointment to come in for an office visit. The health of your baby starts before you conceive. Our years of experience and team approach provides a fantastic toolbox for proper screenings, safe and effective  treatments, and support and knowledge needed to provide you and your new baby the best care possible!

Schedule an appointment today!

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Pregnancy can be an emotional thing – both for the mother and those around her. While we are told that this is a happy time in our lives, it can bring on negative feelings for people who are struggling with fertility. If you are one of those people, then you are not alone. The CDC reports that about 10 in 100 women across the U.S. between the ages of 15 and 44 have difficulty conceiving.

Being Patient Isn’t Easy, But It Is Necessary

The first thing to remember is that couples rarely conceive on their first try or even their third try. Creating a life can take a lot of patience. If you are under age 35, then most doctors will expect you to have regular, unprotected sex for at least a year before they will recommend an infertility treatment.

Anxiety and stress can cause a lower sex drive and affect fertility. The best thing to do is to learn more about the process and what’s considered normal. Information can help you know when there is a problem or when you may just need to keep trying. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.

I Feel Jealous About Someone Else’s Pregnancy

It is normal to feel jealous when others conceive while you struggle to do the same. Loved ones can amplify the feeling without knowing it. Like an in-law constantly asking when you’re going to have kids or a cousin or sibling going on and on about their new baby. While their intentions may be good, it can cause you to feel hurt and frustrated.

There is nothing wrong with applying self-care during this time. If you need to skip a baby shower or prefer to avoid discussions about pregnancy, do so. Stay in touch with your Women’s Health OB/GYN and remember that everyone’s journey is different. If you have questions about fertility or pregnancy, give us a call. We can schedule a consultation and help you learn more about your path to motherhood.

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It is common for women experiencing their first pregnancy or even a subsequent one that presents different than the first, to be nervous about potential pregnancy complications. What is normal for one woman may not be for another. We created a guideline to help pregnant woman know about some signs to look for that warrants a call to us right away. Some signs should not wait for your next scheduled visit.

• Heavy Bleeding and Abdominal Pain

Heavy bleeding can be an indication of multiple problems. If you have menstrual-like cramps and severe abdominal pain during your first trimester, you may have an ectopic pregnancy. Heavy bleeding during the first or second trimester can be a sign of a miscarriage. Call the office if you notice any bleeding during pregnancy.

• Vomiting and Severe Nausea

Morning sickness is normal for some women. However, if you are having severe nausea and vomiting, you may have a serious medical condition. If you can’t keep any food or drink down, then you can become dehydrated. Your doctor can check for pregnancy complications and recommend dietary changes.

• Baby Showing Declining Activity Levels

If you think your baby is showing declining activity levels, you may need medical help. To test, eat or drink something cold. Lie on your side afterward and see if baby starts moving. Count the kicks to give yourself a baseline. 10 or more kicks in two hours is a good starting point. Call your obstetrician if you notice fewer kicks.

• Persistent Headache, Swelling, and Visual Disturbances

If you notice a persistent, severe headache, visual disturbances, swelling, and abdominal pain during the third trimester, you may be experiencing preeclampsia. This condition is potentially fatal and your OB/GYN should be notified immediately.

• Sudden Flow of Water

Water breaking is one of the most well-known signs of labor. If this happens before labor begins, it can indicate a premature rupture of membranes. Usually, once the water breaks, labor either has begun or will start soon.

Also remember that pregnancy can put pressure on your bladder, causing urine leakage. If you aren’t sure which is occurring, go to the bathroom. Empty your bladder and see if fluid continues to flow. If it does, then your water has broken, and it is time to go to the hospital and call your doctor.

If you are concerned for any reason, please call your Women’s Health OB/GYN today.

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A bone density test is used to determine the strength and condition of your bones. It is a type of X-ray that’s also known as a DEXA scan. The data collected from this procedure can identify bone loss and help doctors come up with a treatment plan. While it’s important to monitor health, not everyone needs a bone density test.

Who Needs A Bone Density Test?

Most adults under the age of 65 do not need to undergo a bone density test. That’s because most patients do not have bone loss or have only mild loss. That means their risk of breaking a bone is minimal. They should continue living a healthy lifestyle with exercise and a nutritious diet that includes plenty of vitamin D and calcium.

The Risk of a Bone Density Test

Just like other X-ray procedures, a bone density test uses a small amount of radiation. This is typically manageable and not a serious risk. However, repeated exposure can increase your risk over time. That’s why it is better to get as many tests or X-rays done as is recommended base on your age and health status.

Risk Factors to Consider

If you are a woman over age 65, then you should talk to your doctor about having a bone density test. If you are under age 65, then you likely won’t need one unless you:

• Have broken a bone in a minor accident
• Have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis
• Have a parent who broke their hip
• Are a smoker
• Are a heavy drinker
• Have a low body weight
• Have a low vitamin D level
• Used a corticosteroid drug for three months or longer

We can help you decide if a bone density test is a good choice for you. Contact Women’s Health today to schedule an appointment.

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Vaginitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the vagina. Patients can experience pain, itching, and discharge. Every woman should know what this condition is and how to identify it.

Causes of Vaginitis

Vaginitis can appear due to reduced estrogen levels or as a side effect of a skin disorder. The most common causes include:

• Yeast Infections – Yeast infections are common and affect an average of 75% of women. A fungus known as Candida albicans causes this condition. The infection occurs when there is an imbalance of yeast and bacteria, allowing yeast to overgrow.
• Bacterial Vaginosis – This condition is caused by an overgrowth of a bacteria living in the vagina. It is a common diagnosis for women between the ages of 15 and 44. The cause is not known, but the infection usually occurs in women who are sexually active.
• Trichomoniasis – Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). A parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis causes it. Most patients do not know that they are infected.

Vaginitis Symptoms

Talk to your OB/GYN if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Vaginal irritation or itching
• Painful intercourse
• Painful urination
• Light vaginal bleeding
• Change in color, odor, or quantity of vaginal discharge

Do I Need to Talk to a Doctor About Vaginitis?

Some conditions are minor and may not require immediate medical assistance. If you aren’t sure, it is best to seek professional advice. You should also see your gynecologist if you experience pain or discomfort as well as:

• Notice unpleasant vaginal odor or discharge
• Have never had a vaginal infection
• Have had multiple sex partners
• Have had a new sex partner
• Fever and/or chills
• If you completed an over-the-counter treatment that didn’t work

Contact Women’s Health to schedule your gynecological appointment. We can provide a diagnosis and help you find treatment if necessary.

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A healthy pregnancy begins before conception. There are things you should do in advance to lower risk factors and provide your child a strong start in life. If you plan on having a baby, then you should take the following steps now.

• Consult Your OB/GYN and Your Dentist

The best thing you can do for your baby is to consult an OB/GYN. A doctor can make sure you are doing the right things at the right times. They can provide advice and monitor for signs of complications. Your obstetrician should be included every step of the way.

It is also best to schedule a dentist appointment and get a cleaning if you are due for one. Hormone changes during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to gum disease.

• Begin Taking a Prenatal Vitamin

At least a month before conception is the time to start taking prenatal vitamins and folic acid. Some obstetricians recommend starting at least three months prior. Doing so will lower your baby’s risk of birth defects. Folic acid supplements or prenatal vitamins can be purchased over the counter.

• Improve Your Lifestyle and Habits

If you smoke or drink, now is the time to stop. You should also reduce your caffeine intake. This is also the best time to get fit. Obesity can lead to a higher risk of miscarriage and diabetes during pregnancy.

• Talk to Your Partner

Sit down with your partner and make sure you are both in agreement about this major life change. This should include discussing what will happen after baby arrives, how you will handle childcare, and expectations as parents. You should also discuss finances to ensure that you are in agreement on how you will support a growing family. Covering everything with your partner now will help reduce stress while you are pregnant.

• Lower Your Risk of Infection

You should avoid infections during this time. That includes removing certain foods from your diet – like unpasteurized dairy products and cheeses, undercooked or raw fish, or cold deli meats. These can contain listeriosis which can cause stillbirth or miscarriage.

We can help you learn more about what to do before you get pregnant. Contact Women’s Health in West Bloomfield today to schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN.

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