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Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

  Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most common infections. Although anyone can get a UTI, women are more susceptible because they have shorter urethras, which makes it easier for bacteria to ascend into the bladder. At least 60% of women experience a lower urinary tract infection (involving the urethra and bladder) during…

Is magnesium sulfate safe for babies?

Magnesium sulfate is an inorganic salt that may have a variety of health benefits during pregnancy. It can be prescribed to mothers in order to treat preeclampsia or eclampsia (1). Additionally, when premature birth is expected, it can be used to protect a baby’s brain. There is evidence that antenatal magnesium sulfate reduces the risk…

Georgia Receives an “F” Grade for Prevention of Preterm Birth

Each year, the March of Dimes issues “report cards,” which summarize the effectiveness of individual states’ efforts to prevent premature birth and its associated complications. These report cards include both written commentary and a letter grade.  For the year of 2018 (these reports were released only recently), Georgia got an “F.” It was among six…

Management of Lupus in Pregnancy: Birth Injury Prevention

In the 1970s, women with lupus were often advised against becoming pregnant because of associated complications that can make pregnancies with lupus dangerous to both mothers and babies. Today, doctors recognize that with proper medical oversight and careful timing, most women with lupus can have a successful pregnancy (1). However, it is important to note…

Thyroid issues during pregnancy

The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces thyroid hormones, which affect heart rate and metabolism.  A thyroid disorder occurs when the thyroid makes too much or too little of certain thyroid hormones (1).  Hyperthyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid is overactive, or makes too much thyroid hormone. It can cause…

New Study Finds Benefits of Repeat Prenatal Corticosteroid Treatments

New Study Finds Benefits of Repeat Prenatal Corticosteroid Treatments Infants born prematurely (before 37 weeks gestation) face numerous risks that those born at term do not. They may experience breathing problems, brain problems, heart problems, temperature control problems, immune system problems, and other short-term issues that usually require a stay in the NICU (1). Furthermore,…