Pregnancy Prenatal Massage

Are Prenatal Massages Safe for My Baby and Me?

by PregnancyPrenatal CarePrenatal MassagesSelf Care

Pregnancy Prenatal MassageSafety is key when it comes to pregnancy. Women change many things within their lives; cutting caffeine, watching what they eat, and some even changing toothpaste. However, the most consistently questionable method of self-care is prenatal massage.

While touch may not be a concern, deep touch could be a threat to the fetus and the mother. As a result of the pregnancy, the body has obviously changed, organs are in different locations, and a new occupant requires the utmost safety.

Are prenatal massages good for a mommy-to-be?

The short answer-Yes. Not only does it calm the mother, but it also allows the child to be just as relaxed as both their needs are connected. This also, in turn, gives a better sense and feeling of wellness, better rest, and long-term health for the child and mother. Metabolically, the American Pregnancy Association states it assists with hormone regulation and physically reduces the swelling associated with pregnancy.

However, there are some concessions to consider when selecting a prenatal massage therapist.

Not all massage therapists are alike

Your massage therapist should be experienced in and have a specialized certification for prenatal massage therapy. Both a proven certification and a consultation with your doctor should be assured before making an appointment.

As to timing, any time during the pregnancy is allowed if the proper steps and advisories are followed and readied before hitting the table. However, if you have a high-risk pregnancy or past medical history of injury or surgery, you will want to get approval from your physician.

Many of our patients love prenatal massage! You have the right to relax, not worry and enjoy! If you are considering massage during your pregnancy, make sure to check in with your care provider at Mt. Naomi Women’s Health.

pregnant woman contractions

How Do I Know If I’m In Labor?

by ChildbirthLaborPregnancy

pregnant woman contractionsYou’d think that something like going into labor to birth a baby would have very noticeable and unmistakable signs. Determining whether or not you are really in labor – or whether it’s time to head to the hospital or birth center- can be a little confusing, especially when it’s your first time around the labor and delivery block.

There are several reasons why it’s so tricky:

  • Braxton-Hicks contractions can do a pretty good job of tricking you into thinking you’re in “real” labor.
  • Labor presents itself differently for different women.
  • Just because you’re in “real” labor doesn’t mean your baby will arrive in the next 24-hours or even 48-hours, depending on what’s going on for your body and your baby.
  • It definitely doesn’t happen as it does in the movies.

Going Into Labor Isn’t Like It Is In the Movies

Let’s start with the last point first; in the movies, it’s so obvious. One moment, a woman is arguing with her mate or grabbing coffee with a friend when – – all of a sudden — she crouches down with her arms over her belly and starts exclaiming she’s in labor.

In real life, this is very rarely the case. While your water breaking (more on that later) may be an abrupt surprise, contractions typically don’t move from 0 – 10 in a blink of an eye. They usually start a little more gently. You may think you have gas, indigestion, or diarrhea, or you may notice a slight tightening of your belly or lower back and think, “Hmm. That’s different. Was that a contraction?”

Over time, the contractions will grow a little bit stronger, a little bit longer, and they will come closer and closer together. That is a better model of how “real” labor starts.

Signs You Are Going Into Labor

How Do I Know If I’m In Labor?

Here are some of the signs that you are going into labor. Pretty soon, your “How do I know if this is labor?” will turn to a definite, “I’m going into labor.”

  1. Your water breaks. This is the most dramatic and common sign that labor is about to start. It’s unmistakable because you’ll feel like you peed your pants. For some women, contractions begin right away, while it can take a little longer for others. There is no need to rush to the hospital because your water broke. Depending on how things progress, you can still move around and go about your day. However, you’ll want to call your OB/GYN and let them know. Most healthcare providers say to labor at home until contractions progress or until you hit the 24-hour mark, whichever comes first. If 24-hours passes, you need to head in so you and the baby can be evaluated.
  2. Your water leaks. Similarly, a small tear or puncture can cause a leak, where amniotic fluid slowly trickles out. You may think – at first – that you are leaking urine because it will make your panties wet and may even soak through a layer of clothes over time. However, a panty liner will do the trick in the meantime, and, like mentioned above, you should give your healthcare provider a call to let them know what’s going on. They’ll let you know how to proceed.
  3. You notice a thick, bloody discharge. Attractively named “bloody show” (we jest!), this pinkish or blood-tinged discharge signifies that labor is close. This is a “plug” that helps to seal your cervix and keep the baby in place. Once it’s released, the cervix will continue to dilate, and labor will commence.
  4. A dilated cervix. Once you hit the 36-week mark, your midwife or OB/GYN will want to see you every week. During these visits, they often check your cervix and will let you know if you’re dilated. Keep in mind that a woman near labor –but not in labor – can walk around for days with a slightly dilated cervix. So, while it’s a sign that labor is close – it’s not time to run to the hospital. Going too early may mean they admit you – and you’re more likely to have your labor induced if you don’t go into labor on your own within 24-hours or so. Better to labor at home until it’s really “time,” minimizing your chances of using unnecessary labor interventions.
  5. Contractions – Are These For Real? There are two types of contractions: Braxton-Hicks contractions and the “real” ones that lead to the birth of your baby. The former are like practice contractions, preparing your body, helping the baby position itself correctly, and warming up for the big event. They can feel fairly intense at times, but they will never escalate the same way real contractions do, and they will ease off and stop once you’re sitting, laying down, or relaxing in a warm bath for a while. Click on the hyperlink to read more about Braxton Hicks Contractions.

Now, for the real thing. Real contractions can start out feeling like a bad case of gas or slight indigestion, and you may even have diarrhea. They will then progress to a tightening of the abdominal and/or back muscles. At first, you can talk through them or breathe naturally. As they increase in intensity, you will have to stop what you are doing or interrupt a conversation to be with yourself and breathe through them.

If this is your first baby, keep in mind that first labors are notoriously longer than usual, so although you may be tempted to skedaddle to the hospital, you are better off laboring at home until it’s really time to avoid being strapped to a fetal monitor or risking being pressured to use interventions that aren’t a part of your birth plan.

With “Real” contractions:

—Being active or laying down won’t make a darn difference; contractions happen anyway.

—Changing positions won’t change their behavior.

—They may sometimes start in your lower back and move across to your lower abdomen. Contraction pressure or pain may even radiate down your legs.

—They become more frequent, more intense, and they may even fall into a predictable, timed pattern.

They come on like waves and, as labor progresses. Those waves come faster and faster together and will get stronger and longer. Contact your healthcare provider when your contractions are distinct, requiring more focus and attention than the initial ones.

  1. The Contraction 4-1-1. So, if they ARE real contractions – then what? Most healthcare providers use the 4-1-1 rule of thumb. This means you should head to the hospital or birthing center when your contractions are 4 minutes apart, last for one minute, and continue for 1-hour.

 Of course, every woman is different, so while these provide general labor guidelines, it’s always best to contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or simply want to check in. There’s nothing wrong with erring on the side of caution.

Best of luck! Mt. Naomi Women’s Health wishes a safe and happy birthing journey to both you and your baby.

Couple with ultrasound photo

We’re Busting 7 Myths About Ultrasounds

by 3d UltrasoundOB/GYNPregnancyPregnantPrenatal CareUltrasounds

Couple with ultrasound photoPrenatal appointments are an essential part of your pregnancy journey. Among other things, we use diagnostic tests and screenings to ensure your baby is growing and developing as s/he should. One of these screening tools is called an ultrasound.

With the mother’s permission, we use ultrasounds at just about every prenatal appointment. It allows us to view the heartbeat and watch the baby’s physical development to ensure everything progresses as it should. 

Ultrasounds aren’t always used during the first prenatal exam, although they might be offered. Instead, we usually use them twice or three times throughout the pregnancy unless there’s a particular reason to do them more often.

Don’t Fall for These 7 Ultrasound Myths

Sometimes, women are afraid to have an ultrasound done or aren’t sure about its efficacy or safety. Or, she simply misunderstands what an ultrasound is altogether. This leads to myths and misunderstandings.

What is an ultrasound?

Simply put, the U.S. National Library of science says, “A pregnancy ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of how a baby is developing in the womb. It is also used to check the female pelvic organs during pregnancy.”

Most often, we use an ultrasound probe on the outside of the belly, but there are times where we may use a vaginal ultrasound, by gently inserting an ultrasound wand into the vagina, to get a picture of the cervix or to see the uterus and developing baby from a different angle.

Read, What to Expect During Your Routine Ultrasound (Sonogram) for more details.

Healthcare providers have used ultrasound imaging on pregnant women for more than 30 years now, and there is absolutely no evidence that they are harmful in any way. That’s why we want to eliminate the following myths, which can inhibit mothers and babies from getting the proactive healthcare they deserve.

Myth #1: Ultrasound vs. Sonogram

There is no “versus.” Ultrasounds and sonograms related to the same procedure. The word “ultrasound” relates to the actual procedure. The “sonogram” is the image produced by the procedure.

Myth #2: Ultrasound is used to see pictures of the baby.

This is true but incomplete. Many women feel there’s no need to get an ultrasound because the prenatal pelvic exam proves the baby is growing on target and the heartbeat is healthy. Therefore, why need an ultrasound?

The thing is, ultrasounds show us more than just the baby. The patient is understandably more focused on the baby’s image, but healthcare providers use ultrasounds to look at the mother’s uterus and pelvic organs simultaneously. We may notice organ or uterus-related issues (such as a previously undiagnosed fibroid tumor) that could compromise your pregnancy or delivery if left untreated.

Myth #3: It’s a quick exam with instant results.

Indeed, the exam is typically pretty quick – between ten and 20 minutes on average, depending on what we find. They can run longer depending on what we find. In either case, we usually rely on radiologists to give us the final results. Radiologists are trained to see and diagnose/comment on things that the ultrasound technician is not. 

Therefore, the complete results of an ultrasound can take hours or a full day to come in.

Myth #4: Ultrasounds are like X-Rays and can be harmful.

This is absolutely not true. Ultrasound technology, including 3-D imaging, relies on gentle soundwaves that bounce off soft and hard tissues to create an image. There is no radiation used at all during the process. And, therefore, there are no risks associated with radiation involved for you or any bystanders.

Ultrasounds slightly elevate the pelvic/abdominal cavity temperature, but this is no more than the natural temperature fluctuations that occur when you exercise, take a warm (not hot) bath or shower. 

Myth #5: You shouldn’t have 3-D ultrasounds during the first 12 weeks.

Myth #5 started because mothers noticed we don’t typically use or offer 3-D ultrasound images before 12 weeks or even later. This is not because 3-D technology is risky or more dangerous; it is because 3-D ultrasounds are not effective early on. 

For the first trimester, and up until around the 20- to 25-week mark, 2-D ultrasounds tell us everything we need to know about the growing embryo. By week s25 – 32, we can use 3D imaging to look more closely at the baby’s finite features. For example, at this point, we would know if your baby has a cleft palate or lip or some other physical congenital defect, so you – and the labor and delivery team – are prepared for that. 

Myth #6: You should get an ultrasound at every appointment.

There is no need. As mentioned in the beginning, most OBs use ultrasounds two or three times during the pregnancy unless there is a reason to check in more often. We schedule them strategically. That said, some patients request them more often because they like the resulting images. 

If you want more than the typical two or three ultrasounds, speak to your healthcare provider. However, do know that your insurance carrier may not cover the costs. 

Myth #7: 3D Ultrasounds are better at determining the gender of your baby.

You’d think this was the case, but it’s not. 3D ultrasounds are the same in terms of how they function – same wand, same sound waves, same process. The difference is the technology used to take those results and create more precise images.

Even so, determining a baby’s gender depends entirely on the baby’s position in the uterus, and some angles provide clearer information than others. 

Still have questions about whether or not you should get a pregnancy ultrasound? We’re here to answer them, and we completely respect your decisions either way. Contact Women’s Health Associates to learn more.

The post We’re Busting 7 Myths About Ultrasounds appeared first on Women’s Health Associates | Kansas City Women’s Health Providers.

Anemia

What is Pregnancy Anemia and How to Avoid It

by PregnancyPregnancy Anemia

AnemiaSometimes, pregnancy allows you to experience conditions you have never had an issue with before. Perhaps you have always been a go-go-goer, and now you require daily naps. Maybe you’ve always been a picky eater, and now you can’t get enough of some of your formerly-dreaded food items. Then there are the medical situations that can arise – such as gestational diabetes or pregnancy anemia.

The point is, pregnancy can do a number on your body and your well-being without the proper care and treatment.

Learn About Pregnancy Anemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Today, we’re going to focus on pregnancy anemia, which is the most common type of anemia in the United States according to the American Society of Hematology. Your body requires as much as 30 percent more blood during your pregnancy – you’re sharing your blood supply with your baby, after all – and this means it needs more iron to produce those extra red blood cells.

Typically, you acquire iron and the other nutrients you need from the foods you eat – although they can also be assimilated with nutritional supplements. Anemia occurs when your iron supplies are inadequate. This is one reason why regular prenatal visits are so important. Your doctor or midwife will observe routine blood tests that indicate whether or not you have a healthy iron supply.

PLEASE NOTE: A surplus of iron can be more dangerous than a deficiency. Never take an iron supplement without checking first with your healthcare provider. Taking too much iron can harm both you and your sweet developing baby.

There are three different types of anemia related to pregnancy:

  • Iron-deficiency anemia
  • Folate-deficiency anemia
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency

Folic acid and Vitamin B12 are related to producing new, healthy red blood cells, so a deficiency in either of those can also lead to anemia.

What are the symptoms of pregnancy-related anemia?

Some of the symptoms related to pregnancy anemia include:

  • Fatigue
  • Pale skin, lips, and/or nail beds
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • A rapid heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath

This list of symptoms may sound more like a “Welcome to Pregnancy” anthem for many of you. Indeed, many of the symptoms are also characteristic of pregnancy in general. Still, they are worth mentioning to your doctor, especially if you haven’t yet had your blood drawn for testing or if any of them have developed recently.

How is pregnancy anemia treated?

First, we want to reiterate that the best way to treat anemia is never to develop it in the first place. Make sure you’re consuming more-than-normal amounts of veggies and lean proteins that are higher in iron, such as leafy green vegetables (romaine lettuce, kale, broccoli, greens, etc.), lean meats, eggs, and enriched whole grains. Vitamin C helps to facilitate iron absorption, so it also increases your intake of foods like oranges, strawberries, kiwis, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Also, dairy products like milk and cheese can block iron absorption, so keep your dairy separate from your iron-rich foods.

Prenatal vitamins almost always contain iron, folic acid, and B12. Check with your doctor to see which prenatal supplement she recommends. In some cases, she may write you a prescription for a specialized prenatal vitamin higher in particular nutrients, or she may want you to take a separate iron supplement. Again, never take any nutritional supplement – especially while pregnant – without checking it out with your doctor.

Are you still looking for the best care provider for you and your baby? Contact Women’s Health Associates and schedule a meet-and-greet appointment with our staff of caring professionals.

The post What is Pregnancy Anemia and How to Avoid It appeared first on Women’s Health Associates | Kansas City Women’s Health Providers.

woman with fertility issues

A Quick Guide to Fertility Treatment Options

by Artificial InseminationDonor EggsFertilityFertility MedicationFertility TreatmentIn Vitro FertilizationInfertilityIVFPregnancyReproductive SurgerySperm DonationSurrogate

woman with fertility issuesTrying to get pregnant and having trouble conceiving can leave you feeling left out. Seeing women with baby bumps, cars with “Baby On Board” signs, and pregnancy announcements can be upsetting when you’re struggling with your own fertility.

But you’re not alone. According to the CDC, as many as 12% of all couples have infertility issues that prevent them from getting pregnant.

If you are concerned that infertility may be an issue for you and your partner, schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN to share your concerns and discuss your options. They may recommend the use of infertility treatments if you:
– Have been trying to conceive for more than 12 months
– Are over the age of 35
– Have an existing condition, like endometriosis or PCOS, that is known to interfere with fertility.

Infertility treatments come in a wide range of forms, from oral medications to hormone injections that increase your chance of ovulation to in vitro fertilization (IVF).  Your OB/GYN can refer you to a fertility specialist to help determine which treatment option is best for you.

7 Common Fertility Treatment Options

Here is a list of seven common fertility treatment options.

1. Fertility Medications

The majority of fertility medications are designed to enhance your body’s ability to release mature eggs naturally. In most cases, this will mean releasing more than one egg, which increases your chances of multiple births. If they do not work, you may be referred to a fertility specialist for further evaluation and recommendations.

2. Artificial Insemination (AI) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Also known as “artificial insemination,” this method means that technicians inject sperm directly into the uterus to make sure sperm get closer to where they need to go. IUI is often done in conjunction with fertility medications.

3. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

With IVF, your eggs are retrieved after taking fertility medication, and then they are fertilized by your partner, or donor, sperm to create viable embryos. The viable embryos are then implanted into your uterus at a specific point in your menstrual cycle to increase the embryo’s chances of implantation and result in pregnancy.

4. Natural Cycle IVF

Natural cycle IVF is in vitro fertilization without hormone injections.  Your natural cycle will be monitored, and when you’re ready to ovulate, a single egg is retrieved and fertilized and is then transferred to your uterus.  You may want to consider this option if you would like to avoid hormones and rule out the risk of multiples.

5. Donor Eggs

Donor eggs are ideal for women with zero to very low ovarian reserves, whose eggs test positive for compromised DNA (which increases the chances of miscarriages or babies being born with congenital defects), or for older women whose chances of IVF success are compromised by age. If you are over the age of 35 and use a younger woman’s eggs regardless of your age, you benefit from the same success rate as women who undergo IVF in the egg donor’s age bracket.

6. Egg Freezing

Egg freezing is a process by which 10-20 of a woman’s eggs are retrieved using a procedure similar to IVF.  The eggs are then frozen and stored for later use.  The eggs are thawed, fertilized, and implanted in your uterus when you’re ready to get pregnant.  This option can be beneficial if you want to wait to have a baby or you have other health issues such as a family history of endometriosis, early menopause, or ovarian cysts.

7. Surrogate or Gestational Carriers

If you’ve tried many treatment options or have a physical impairment that prohibits pregnancy, you may opt to use a surrogate or gestational carrier. Surrogate carriers are typically used for women who do not have eggs of their own and/or cannot carry a baby full-term for whatever reason. The surrogate serves as the egg donor and is impregnated via IUI or IVF. Then, she carries the baby for you. Gestational carriers agree to donate their womb via IVF, using a separate sperm and egg.

If you are concerned you may require fertility treatments to help you have a baby, schedule a consultation with Women’s Health Associates.

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Baby in Summertime Floatie

5 Ways to Beat the Heat During a Summertime Pregnancy

by ChildbirthHydrationNutritionPregancyPregnancyWellness

Baby in Summertime FloatieIf you’re one of the many women who are welcoming a baby during the hot summer months, we’re pretty sure you can’t wait for that due date to arrive. Summertime heat and humidity can wreak havoc on energy levels and cause your body to overheat, adding to your discomfort.

We’ve put together five ways to help beat the heat and hopefully experience a little bit of relief during your summertime pregnancy.

5 Ways to Beat the Heat During a Summertime Pregnancy

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Hydration is not only vital to your health but the health of your baby. According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “During pregnancy, you should drink 8 to 12 cups (64 to 96 ounces) of water every day. Water has many benefits. It aids digestion and helps form the amniotic fluid around the fetus. Water also helps nutrients circulate in the body and helps waste leave the body.”  Drink a few sips of water before bedtime, and don’t wait to feel thirsty to hydrate. Give your water intake an added boost by eating hydrating fruits and vegetables such as apples, oranges, spinach, and kale.

Dress for Comfort

Who says you can’t be comfortable and cute in the summer heat? Wear loose-fitting, stretchy clothing made with breathable fabric, like these fun maternity dresses. Accessorize with a sun hat, and you’ll be breezing through the summer heat in style.

Limit Your Time in the Sun

If you need to get outside, limit your activities to earlier in the morning or later in the day. According to Northwest Medicine, “Exposure to the sun during pregnancy has been linked to decreased amounts of folic acid, which is needed for your baby’s growth and development. The lack of folic acid can increase the risk for spina bifida and other birth defects.”  Be sure to protect yourself from the sun by using sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Use a sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF or higher, and don’t forget to apply it to your face.

Fill Your Tummy with Cool Foods

One of the last things any of us wants to do when it’s hot outside is turn on the oven or stove. Foods rich in nutrients and protein that can be enjoyed chilled are great ways to cure hunger pains and keep cool. Try making smoothies, homemade popsicles, or enjoying some yogurt. “Protein is critical for ensuring the proper growth of baby’s tissues and organs, including the brain. It also helps with breast and uterine tissue growth during pregnancy. It even plays a role in your increasing blood supply, allowing more blood to be sent to your baby.” (Healthline)

Cool Off In The Water

Swimming or water jogging can not only help to cool you down, but may help to alleviate discomfort from swelling and back pain. If getting in the pool isn’t feasible, try a cool shower or bath. You can also keep a spray bottle filled with water in the fridge to give yourself a cool spritz throughout the day.

If you are interested in learning more about navigating your summertime pregnancy, or have any other questions regarding your pregnancy, please contact Women’s Health Associates for an appointment, consultation, and more.

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Couple experiencing infertility

When Should I Worry About Infertility?

by EndometriosisFertilityGynecologyInfertilityPCOSPelvic Inflammatory DiseasePeriodPregnancyWellness

Couple experiencing infertilityTrying to get pregnant can be one of the most exciting times in a couple’s life. But when the ‘–’ sign on the pregnancy test repeats month, after month, after month the excitement can quickly morph into worry, concern, frustration and even depression. But, before you go labeling yourself “infertile”, there are a few things you need to know.

Conceiving is a complex process and – usually – it all revolves around timing and egg/sperm viability. Contrary to what pop culture and the media tells you, conception typically takes about six months to a year for most healthy couples.

The Facts About Fertility: When Do You Know You Have a Problem?

Most doctors will not begin looking into fertility issues unless a couple has tried to get pregnant for 12-months or more without success. Even timing intercourse with ovulation is not an automatic recipe for success. You and your partners bodies are very aware of any genetic mutations in the egg and/or sperm, and will either prevent conception from occurring, or will eliminate the joined egg and sperm. This often occurs before you would ever know you were pregnant. If you are 35 years or older, you will want to speak with your doctor if you have tried to conceive for six or more months. Age matters and, in this case, the sooner any potential infertility issues are addressed, the better.

Here are some of the signs that you may have a fertility problem:

  1. You’ve been timing intercourse without results.

Timing your intercourse to coincide with ovulation will typically result in a successful pregnancy within 12 months. To do this, you need to understand your menstrual cycle and start tracking it. This is something that has been made easy by tracking apps. The average menstrual cycle is about 28-days, but they can range from 21 to 35 days. Ovulation typically occurs between days 11 and 16. Because everyone is different, tracking your cycle helps you find the right window for your body. While an egg is only available for fertilization for about 24-hours, sperm can live for several days. Because of this, we advise clients to have sex every other day for the days leading up to your estimated ovulation day (Days 8, 10, 12, 14).  If you’ve been timing intercourse for more than a year without any success (6 months if you’re 35 or older), it’s time to have a chat with your OB/GYN for a more thorough fertility workup and to discuss potential solutions.

  1. You have irregular periods.

Since ovulation is directly related to your menstrual cycle, irregular periods are a sign that something might be abnormal. If you notice abnormal cycles, talk to your doctor. It may simply be that you have a much shorter or longer cycle than most, but knowing that can help you plan for ovulation. However, you may also have endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), both of which are common causes of infertility. A more thorough pelvic exam and diagnostic approach can be used to see the potential cause. Infertility is spread pretty evenly between men and women (30% men, 30% women and the rest of the cases are shared or remain a mystery) so your partner may want to consider having their sperm analyzed as well.

  1. You’ve already been diagnosed with PCOS, Endometriosis, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, etc.

If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, endometriosis or other anatomical or physiological conditions linked to infertility, your doctor may want to follow your path to conception more closely. They may want to introduce fertility options earlier than normal to give you additional assistance.

  1. You have a history of miscarriages.

Have you miscarried in the past, or had more than one miscarriage? This information is important to disclose to your doctor. If you’ve miscarried before and are having difficulties conceiving now, your doctor may recommend fertility testing sooner than “normal”. Recurrent miscarriages (three or more in a row) are typically a red flag that something else is amiss and your doctor will refer you to a fertility specialist if they are unable to diagnose the problem via traditional diagnostic procedures.

  1. Your job places you in contact with toxins or contaminants.

If you work with radiation or with substances known to have an effect on female or male infertility, you may need to speak with your doctor about more serious protective measures. Research continues to illuminate and expose the regular, everyday chemicals and toxins linked to infertility, so minimizing your exposure to these substances is important.

In most cases, the first step in the fertility journey is oral fertility medications, such as Clomid, which stimulate ovulation. Depending on your situation, Women’s Health Associates may recommend trying Clomid with timed intercourse. In others, we may recommend Clomid in partnership with intrauterine insemination (also called artificial insemination) to increase your odds. If oral fertility medications are ineffective, we are happy to refer you to one of several reputable fertility specialists here in the Kansas City area.

Above all, remember that you are not alone. Talking to your doctors openly and honestly is especially important. We are an all-female OB/GYN office and we will work closely with you along your fertility journey. Contact us if you need a referral or have any questions.

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