Tag: pregnancy

What Is Bell’s Palsy? – InVite Health Podcast, Episode 436

What Is Bell’s Palsy? – InVite Health Podcast, Episode 436

You may have heard about Bell’s palsy, a type of facial paralysis that affects about 500,000 Americans annually, but do you know what causes it? Learn more from Amanda Williams, MPH.

5 Essential Micronutrients During Pregnancy by Jun Wang, MS.

5 Essential Micronutrients During Pregnancy by Jun Wang, MS.

Jun Wang is currently an on-site nutritional consultant at InVite® Heath in Forest Hills and the Bronx. He holds a Masters of Science in Human Nutrition from Columbia University Medical Center. In about three months, I will became a father for the first time in 

Flu Shots Highly Recommended for Pregnant Women by Experts

Flu Shots Highly Recommended for Pregnant Women by Experts

Photo by Michalina on Unsplash

Opinions on the flu vaccine are still divided, but certain populations are encouraged to get vaccinated this fall, especially pregnant women.

Experts encourage all expectant mothers to get a flu shot, and if any flu-like symptoms arise, they should seek medical help immediately. The mortality and complications of the flu during pregnancy are very serious. And these complications are not only harmful to the mother, but they can also affect her baby by causing premature labor, premature delivery and even death.

Flu and Cold Facts by Jerry Hickey, R.Ph – Click here!

Pregnant women have a difficult time fighting off infections compared to others. This is because the hormonal changes in pregnancy can cause the immune system to perform at less-than-optimal function, which can have effects similar to those seen in people on chronic steroid medications. In addition, a particular hormone that changes during pregnancy called progesterone, causes swelling of the lining of the nose and oral pharynx. This makes a pregnant women more susceptible to contracting viruses which then quickly become infused into circulation.

A variety of specific vitamins, minerals and nutrients are essential for supporting specific women’s health needs. Click here for more information!

Another problem is due to the changes in the breathing and lung function of pregnant women. As the diaphragm increases during pregnancy, overall breathing function is decreased. Because of this, having the flu and getting mucous in the lungs during pregnancy can cause serious breathing complications. What’s more, pregnant women need a higher amount of oxygen than non-pregnant women. An increased oxygen consumption is required because you’re now breathing for two!

5 Essential Micronutrients During Pregnancy by Jun Wang, MS – Click here!

The flu can infect a pregnant woman’s lungs with the flu, which might also lead to a secondary infection such as bacterial pneumonia, making oxygen delivery to both the mother and child a major problem and could even lead to death. If you’re pregnant and haven’t already gotten your flu shot, it’s highly recommended that you talk to your doctor right away – it’s important for the health of both you and your baby!

What do you think about flu shots for pregnant women? Leave us a comment to join the conversation!

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Smoking While Pregnant Linked to ADHD in Children

Smoking While Pregnant Linked to ADHD in Children

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash It’s a publicly known fact that smoking in general is not good for our health. Quitting can be a struggle and many opt for vaping to reduce their nicotine intake. However, smoking while pregnant has many serious side effects 

Staying Healthy After Your Baby with Dr. Patricia Selassie

Staying Healthy After Your Baby with Dr. Patricia Selassie

Photo by Alex Pasarelu on Unsplash Many women are extremely particular in seeking the right preparations and care for their bodies before and during pregnancy. However, what about the mother’s health after the baby is born? It’s important to understand that post pregnancy practices are