Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a pregnancy complication that extends beyond the common perceptions of morning sickness. Affecting nearly 3% of pregnant individuals, HG leads to significant health consequences, resulting in over 160,000 emergency room visits annually in the United States. Many people remain unaware that HG is characterized by persistent nausea and severe vomiting, often
Health & Wellness
As soon as you cross the threshold into your second trimester, a profound shift often takes place—not just within your body but also in the way you perceive this miraculous journey. Many women experience a wave of relief as morning sickness diminishes and energy levels begin to rebound. This phase marks a period of flourishing
A groundbreaking study from University College London (UCL) has brought to light an astonishing connection between parental language and the hormone oxytocin, commonly referred to as the ‘love hormone.’ Oxytocin is a pivotal element in developing social bonds, fostering trust, and enhancing emotional intelligence. Detailed in the journal Development and Psychopathology, the research elucidates how
Every parent knows the nightly tug-of-war that can unfold during toothbrushing time with young children. This relatively mundane task often feels more like a battle than a routine. However, recent research suggests that how we approach these moments can significantly influence not just oral hygiene habits but also cultivate essential life skills in our children,
The significance of the human microbiome in maintaining our health is something that many may overlook. It may come as a surprise to learn that the human body hosts approximately the same number of bacterial cells as human cells. In fact, we are home to around 38 trillion bacteria! These bacteria, along with other microbes,
Pregnancy is often romanticized in media, with glowing mothers showcasing their beautiful baby bumps and tales of joy. However, the reality for many women is far less glamorous, especially in the early months characterized by relentless morning sickness. Reflecting on my own experience, I remember the deceptive promise that nausea would taper off after a
Raising children who are honest and trustworthy is a goal that resonates with many parents. The aspiration to cultivate such qualities often emerges from a deep desire to foster transparency in family relationships. However, the journey towards this goal can be multifaceted, involving moments of introspection, learning, and understanding. A single experience, particularly in those
National Eating Disorder Awareness Week serves as a crucial reminder of a significant yet often misunderstood issue impacting millions: eating disorders, particularly in the context of motherhood. Pregnant women and new mothers already face an array of emotional and physical challenges, and for those with a history of disordered eating, these life stages can amplify
The journey to motherhood is as exhilarating as it is challenging. After the ordeal of childbirth, a mother enters a phase filled with both joy and vulnerability. In many cultures, particularly in Chinese tradition, there exists a practice termed “Sitting the Month,” or Zuo Yuezi. This ancient ritual underscores the importance of postpartum recovery, couched
When Samantha Hanratty, renowned actress known for her role in *Yellowjackets*, received the heart-stopping news during her pregnancy that her child would be born with a cleft lip, it altered her world in an instant. As the New Year dawned in 2024 with her son’s arrival, Hanratty’s emotions swung from despair to a profound resilience.