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​How do I know my Rh status and what does it mean? At your first prenatal visit, you will have a lab test to determine your blood type and your RH status.  The Rh status tells us whether you have a particular protein on the surface of your red blood cells.  This is kind of like a pirate flag to Rh negative blood cells.  90% of Caucasians are Rh+ and have this protein.  This frequency varies somewhat with other ethnicities.  However, if you are Rh negative and don’t have this protein, you will need to take special precautions during the course of your pregnancy.  

Why is being Rh negative a problem when you are pregnant? If you are Rh negative, there is a high likelihood that your baby will be Rh positive.  This is simply based on the fact that your partner is likely Rh positive (a pirate!).  Essentially, this means that your blood and your baby’s blood will likely be incompatible.  This incompatibility will not likely have any effect during your first pregnancy; however, if your baby’s blood leaks into your blood, which is a frequent occurrence during labor (and occasionally sooner if you have bleeding), your blood will develop antibodies against the Rh factor.  Much like you would keep a lookout for pirates after you saw them the first time, these antibodies patrol and attack any proteins that they see in the future.  This is called Rh sensitization.  In a future pregnancy with an Rh positive baby, your blood can attack your baby’s blood. 

What does it mean that my blood can attack my baby’s blood?  Once your blood has developed antibodies against the Rh factor, it can attack your baby’s red blood cells and kill them.  If this happens, it would essentially cause your baby to have anemia and can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin), as well as more serious complications, such as brain damage, miscarriage or even stillbirth.  

How do we prevent sensitization?  If you are Rh negative, you will receive a shot called Rhogam during the time that your blood is most likely to be exposed to your baby’s blood (essentially, it provides a diversion for all of those pirate cells). This will prevent your body from developing antibodies and attacking your baby’s blood.  Rhogam is administered at 28 weeks because it will protect you from antibody formation for 12 weeks (essentially up until delivery).  Once you deliver, we will check the baby’s Rh status from a blood sample; if your baby is Rh positive then you will receive another dose of Rhogam to prevent any antibody formation that could have happened during bleeding from delivery. 

Would I need Rhogam any other time during the course of my pregnancy if I am Rh negative? Most women only receive Rhogam at 28 weeks and after delivery if their baby is Rh positive.  However, if you know that you are Rh negative and have had any of the following complications, you will likely need Rhogam to prevent sensitization: miscarriage, abortion, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth, molar pregnancy, vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, or abdominal injury during pregnancy. 

Bottom Line: If you are pregnant, you need to know your Rh status! If you happen to be Rh negative, make sure that everyone that takes care of you while you are pregnant (especially urgent care or the ER) is aware so they do not forget to administer Rhogam to prevent your blood from becoming sensitized!Pam

In today's fast-paced world, women frequently find themselves multitasking and juggling multiple roles. They often serve as working professionals, caregivers, leaders, and nurturers all at once. This constant juggling and relentless daily grind, if not managed effectively, can lead to feelings of exhaustion and imbalance, making it challenging to find peace and happiness. However, every woman has the potential to transform this daily grind into a rewarding and meaningful journey. The secret to achieving this transformation lies in embracing strategies that prioritize self-care, emotional well-being, and a balanced lifestyle. In this article Teton Women’s Health Center, we delve into a set of actionable strategies specifically designed to help women enhance their overall well-being and empower them to navigate daily challenges with resilience, grace, and strength.

Prioritize Tasks
From attending meetings to household chores to child-rearing to maintaining social relations, it's essential to discern the urgent from the important. This is where prioritizing tasks comes into play. Start by jotting down your tasks, then rank them based on their importance and urgency. By defining clear priorities, you set a course that steers clear of unnecessary burnout, ensuring that you remain energized and focused on what truly matters.

Immerse Yourself in Nature
Nature is an often-underestimated source of rejuvenation. Whether it's a brisk walk in a nearby park or a weekend getaway to the mountains, connecting with nature has profound effects. Multiple studies have shown that spending time outdoors can reduce stress, increase creativity, and provide a mood uplift. Take a moment every day or week to immerse yourself in nature's embrace, allowing it to heal and revitalize your spirit.

Return to School
If you feel unfulfilled in your current career, earning a degree online could be the perfect opportunity to pursue a new path. For example, by earning a degree in psychology, you can study the cognitive and emotional processes that drive human behavior, allowing you to support those in need of help. Online degree programs offer the flexibility to balance full-time work while keeping up with your studies. Click here for more info on how to take the first step toward a more rewarding career.

Laughter Therapy
The age-old saying "Laughter is the best medicine" remains true even today. Amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to lose sight of the simple joy that a hearty laugh can bring. Scientifically, laughter has been proven to release endorphins, our body's natural painkillers. To inject some laughter into your life, consider watching a comedy show or sharing light-hearted moments with friends and family.

Be Kind to Yourself
It's not uncommon for women to be their harshest critics, especially in difficult times. However, practicing self-compassion can make a world of difference. Treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and patience creates an environment conducive to growth. Take time to reflect on your achievements, no matter how small, and celebrate them.

Build Your Resilience
Life is full of ups and downs, but while challenges are inevitable, how we respond to them defines our journey. Cultivating resilience means building a mental fortitude that helps bounce back from setbacks. It's about viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. By nurturing resilience, women empower themselves to navigate life's storms with grace and emerge stronger on the other side.

Make Empowered Decisions
​Every decision we make, whether big or small, shapes our life's narrative. By making conscious choices that align with our values and aspirations, we reclaim our power and steer our life in the direction we want it to go. This could involve simple decisions such as choosing healthy meals, setting boundaries in personal relationships, or opting for a career path that resonates with our goals. It's important to feel confident in our decisions and to trust our intuition, even when faced with uncertainty or doubt.
 
The daily grind is an inescapable part of life, but it doesn't have to be a burden. With the right strategies, it's possible to manage, and even enjoy, the daily hustle. By prioritizing tasks, connecting with nature, embracing laughter, practicing self-compassion, building resilience, and making empowered decisions, women can significantly elevate their well-being. Exploring hobbies like gardening or embarking on an entrepreneurial journey can further enrich their lives. It's important to remember that the pursuit of well-being is a continuous journey. Each step taken towards a balanced and joyful life brings us closer to a life imbued with purpose and fulfillment.

For a variety of women’s health services in Idaho Falls, visit Teton Women’s Health Center today!

Healthy Eating Habits at a Young Age

Good nutrition is essential to the growth and health of a child's body and mind. It is important to start teaching children healthy eating habits from a young age as this will lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating. Developing healthy habits when it comes to food is beneficial to your child's physical health and can also help them make better food choices in the future. 

While every family's eating habits are different, there are some tips parents can follow to ensure their children develop healthy eating habits at an early age. From teaching children what is healthy and unhealthy to providing them with the tools, they need to overcome food aversions and develop a love for healthy foods. This blog post will give you additional tips to help your children develop a healthy attitude toward food.


Introduce a Variety of Healthy Foods
In developing healthy eating habits for your child, start by introducing various foods around the house. By exposing them to plenty of different types of food, they will begin to develop an interest in what foods are good for them. Your child will better understand health and nutrition if they have their favorite types of foods to enjoy. 

Ask your child what their favorite type of food is and introduce healthier versions such as non-fat yogurt, fruits, or vegetables instead. This helps them learn about the importance of eating healthy and prevents them from being picky about the food they eat.


Encourage Children to Try New Foods
Getting their children to try new foods can be challenging for parents, but it is part of helping them develop healthy eating habits. Introducing a variety of foods early on can help children develop a taste for a variety of flavors and textures.

Kids may be hesitant to try something unfamiliar, so staying positive and encouraging is important. You can start by introducing one food at a time and emphasizing its nutritional benefits.

If your child is interested in something other than trying a food right away, try presenting it in different forms, such as combining it with a favorite food or microwaving it to give it a slightly different flavor. You can also offer smaller portion sizes and provide praise when your child tries a new food.


Limit Unhealthy Snacks
A good foundation for a child's future involves teaching them healthy eating habits from a young age. Limiting unhealthy snacks will teach your child to make healthier choices. Instead of allowing chips and candy, you can offer more nutritious alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and yogurt.

This will teach your child that plenty of other healthy options are available, so they don't have to rely on junk food. This way, your child can still enjoy snacks without sacrificing their health.


Involve Your Child in Meal Planning and Preparation
Involving your children in one way or another during meal preparation will not only help them to develop healthy eating habits, but it will also help to promote a positive relationship with food. Encourage your children to help you plan meals, go shopping for ingredients, and assist in the kitchen. Even young children can help in the kitchen by washing fruits and veggies, setting the table, and stirring ingredients.

Having your kids help you prepare meals will not only make them more interested in eating a healthy meal but also allows you to teach your child about what ingredients are and how they're used. Even if your child is too young to understand everything you're saying, they will still be able to get in on the action as they work with you and learn about food at the same time.


Model Healthy Eating
Children learn through imitation, so it's important to model healthy eating habits for them. When you prepare meals, ensure that you eat the same healthy foods you want your children to eat. Your child will become accustomed to healthy eating if they see their parents doing it.


Establish Routines
Having routines for mealtimes will also help your child develop healthy habits. Routines provide structure for your child and help them be prepared when you need something done. Creating a pattern can help set the tone for mealtime, and multitasking can be avoided when preparing meals.

Habits are developed from repetition, so your children must see you making healthy eating choices so they know they can do it. Encourage them to try different foods and make healthy choices when preparing meals.


Make Healthy Eating Fun and Engaging
It is important to set healthy eating habits to make healthy food seem exciting for your children. Kids love to have fun, and this includes eating. You can make food more interesting for them by presenting it creatively, like making fruit lollipops or sliders with a favorite food such as pizza, bread, or vegetables.

By making food fun, you can help your children develop healthy eating habits and make their meals more appealing.


Final Thought
Fostering your children's interest in food and healthy eating habits is vital for a healthy future. By teaching your children what is healthy and unhealthy, you can help them develop the skills necessary to make good choices throughout their lives.



Author Bio

Andrea is currently the head of content management at SpringHive Web Design Company. This digital agency provides creative web design, social media marketing, email marketing, and search engine optimization services to small businesses and entrepreneurs. She is also a blog contributor at Baby Steps Preschool, where she writes storytime themes, parenting tips, and seasonal activities to entertain children.




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Keyword: healthy eating habits
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Blog courtesy of Daisy Jones
Photo via Pexels

Body changes in new mothers encompass many areas over an extended period of time, and often there are expectations that can be challenging to overcome. From seeing the way motherhood and pregnancy is portrayed on television and in magazines to navigating the comments that come from well-meaning but misguided friends and family members, the way we view our bodies both during and after pregnancy can create lasting body image issues. That’s why it’s so important to have clothing that fits well, keeps you comfortable, and boosts your confidence so you can focus on this time with your new baby. During the 12 weeks post-delivery–often called the 4th trimester–you’ll want to find flattering, comfy clothing that doesn’t break your budget.
 
The good news is, you don’t have to buy a whole new wardrobe. Investing in a few well-made pieces will help get you through this time in comfort and style so you can enjoy all those precious moments with your baby. These pieces will help you manage everything from breastfeeding to navigating wellness checkups with ease.
 
Here are a few things to consider as you navigate the last stages of your pregnancy:
 
Your body will take time to recover
 
After delivery, it can take several months for the body to recover fully. Your uterus needs time to shrink back to its original size, and your hormones will likely fluctuate. If you’re breastfeeding, your breasts will grow and may become firm to the point of pain; it’s important to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing pain that doesn’t lessen during feedings. Breastfeeding can also often make you feel hungry, thirsty, and tired, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated and eat protein-packed snacks during the day.
 
Find the best bras for your current needs
 
Whether breastfeeding or not, your breasts will undergo some changes during the 4th trimester and may be tender, swollen, or different in size as your body heals. This means you need to have plenty of support as your body adjusts, so it’s wise to invest in a few new bras. Rather than buying for the size you want to be down the road,  search for supportive bras for hard to fit sizes to ensure you find the right fit.
 
 Don’t know your size? Use a measuring tape to find your underbust number by wrapping it all the way around your back and beneath your breasts (if it’s an odd number, round up). To find your cup size, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your breasts, across the nipples. Use this handy bra size tool to find the right fit.
 
Invest in tops that make you feel stylish and confident
 
The right bra can help you feel better, and the right tops can boost your confidence and keep you comfortable whether you’re feeding the baby or running errands. Look for classic colors and cool fabrics that will help combat those hormonal hot flashes and warm weather. Neutral colors can be paired with just about anything, from a cute skirt to yoga pants, and these tops will give you a wardrobe boost that will take you through the 4th trimester and beyond.
 
Take care of yourself
 
While making the right style and comfort choices with clothing is a great way to practice self-care, it’s also crucial to make time for yourself as you and the baby recover from delivery. The 4th trimester is a time of change that can leave you both exhausted and stressed, but by focusing on your mental and physical health and using different methods to boost your confidence, you can bring some positivity into what can often be a challenging time.
 
Whether you’ve just had your first child or your fifth, knowing how to care for yourself is imperative. By giving yourself time to recover, and investing in stylish, comfortable tops and bras, you can practice self-care and keep stress at bay in order to enjoy this time with your baby.

Blog Courtesy of Elena Davis
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The recent pandemic affected people's lives in countless ways. For some, it was a case of adapting and surviving, while others relished being thrust into the unknown. The forced changes in society led to businesses collapsing, but it also paved the way for new opportunities for women to start their own businesses or work online. Today, Teton Women’s Health Center shares everything you need to know.
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Background
A few common areas in a woman's life affected by the pandemic include: 

•           Career. According to recent reports, during COVID-19, female unemployment was nearly double the rate of male unemployment. This forced women into seeking alternative work opportunities, many of whom found creative ways of making money.
•           Child care. Women still bear the brunt of child care, and the lack of support from the schooling system during the pandemic forced many families to reassess their situations. There was the expectation that parents needed to homeschool their children, which required a balancing act.  This led to many women leaving their careers to be at home with their kids. Work-from-home jobs increased in popularity.  
•           Mental health. Because of social isolation and too much time at home, many women were forced to think about a new career direction. Many women prioritized mental health by reaching out and finding support groups.
•           Physical health. The combination of social isolation and working from home during the pandemic have made it remarkably easy for one’s weight to grow into unhealthy ranges.

Working OnlineIf you've had to change course due to the pandemic, consider working online. Doing work from home gives you more flexibility and opens up a world of inspiration to start your own business. Popular online vocations include transcription services, online content writing services, virtual assistants, and online tutoring. 

Starting and Marketing a Business 
Women who establish their own companies should identify potential opportunities in their area. Starting an online business is one thing, but if you'd prefer to offer a service, consider creating a hiking group, dog walking, or boot camp.

If you do start your own business, consider forming a limited liability company (LLC). An LLC has many benefits, such as tax advantages, limited personal liability if something goes wrong, and less paperwork. The easiest route is to hire a formation company to file the paperwork and state rules. It’s also wise to invest in a cloud accounting system. This will make keeping track of your business’s finances straightforward, and you won’t have to worry about losing backups.

Once you've finished the business administration portion, the marketing begins. Marketing your new business is key to success. Outsource your website and logo design to a graphic designer or web designer, and ask them to create a media kit. If you're going to send images, compress them without losing quality when you use a free tool to convert JPG to PDF online. This method will allow you to convert multiple files into one PDF.

Next, select a few relevant social media platforms and post regularly. Consider using a small budget to promote your posts to your target market. Depending on your business type, recruit friends and family to start promoting you online. 

The Positive Effects of the Pandemic 
The pandemic certainly affected women differently, from their home lives to their careers. Although these changes haven't been easy, many have used the opportunity as a springboard into alternate careers where they're discovering their creativity. If you found that your world was turned upside down by the pandemic, look for ways that you can transform it into a positive. COVID may have changed the world, but that doesn’t mean you can’t carve your own path as well.
 
Teton Women’s Health Center offers a variety of women's health services in Idaho Falls, from preconceptual counseling to prenatal care to the delivery of your baby. Call 208-523-2060.

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Blog courtesy of Daisy Jones
​Image via Pexels

Providing nourishment and establishing a strong bond with your baby are two of the most profound benefits of breastfeeding. Yet, the experience is not all sunshine and rainbows. Breastfeeding mothers commonly contend with clogged ducts, supply issues, cracked nipples, and other painful conditions. 
 
Practicing self-care can help you manage breastfeeding-related challenges. Here’s how you can incorporate self-care activities into your day when you’re low on time and energy.
 
Teton Women's Health Center offers exceptional obstetrical and gynecologic care to the women of Idaho Falls. Call 208-523-2060 to make an appointment. 
 
Capitalize on Nap Times
Standard newborn parenting advice encourages you to sleep when the baby sleeps — wishful thinking when the dishes and laundry are piled up and you have other kids to care for. Fortunately, babies sleep a lot, which gives you pockets of time to be productive and to also do something enjoyable.
 
Use napping windows to read a book, meditate, engage in a hobby or yes, take your own snoozing ( assuming your other children are being cared for). While you won’t be able to make up for all your lost sleep, studies show that a power nap can improve alertness and reduce stress.
 
Exercise With Your Baby
Sadly, you can’t create more hours in the day, but you can prioritize activities and employ strategies to manage your time more effectively. Exercise should be high on your to-do list. A good fitness routine keeps your body in peak physical health and elevates mood and energy levels, both of which can typically use a boost, especially in the early days of parenting.
 
Babies are surprisingly excellent workout companions. Once you’ve been given the all-clear by your medical provider to resume physical activity (usually six to eight weeks after delivery), start slow by taking your little one for stroller walks. Build up to include a mix of cardio and strength exercises. Depending on where you live, there may even be a group that offers “baby and me” fitness classes.
 
Enjoy the Rest of Your Family
Though you and your partner are knee-deep in the trenches of parenting, carve out moments to reconnect as a couple. Designate a date night or at the very least, take some time each day to check in with each other and have a conversation that does not revolve around poopy diapers and spit-up.
 
With your baby literally attached to your hip, finding time to bond with your other children can be hard. Create a realistic plan that alleviates this problem and ensures that each child gets to spend quality time with you. Here are a few ideas to maximize your time together:
 
•        Eat meals as a family which offers opportunities to bond.
•        Establish a predictable bedtime routine when your children can count on your presence.
•        Invite your kids to help you with household tasks which can make them feel like valued family members.
•        Schedule solo time with each child to do an activity of their choosing.
 
Be Kind to Your Body
Nursing moms often suffer from sore, achy, and downright painful breasts. Ease discomfort and make your experience more pleasant with these essential supplies:
 
•        Cooling gel pads
•        Nipple cream
•        An ergonomic breastfeeding pillow
•        Supportive, comfortable nursing bras
•        Properly-fitted flanges, if using a pump
 
Seek Help for Postpartum Depression
 
After having a baby, many women experience what is known as the "baby blues." This is a normal and common reaction to the hormonal changes and lack of sleep that comes with having a newborn. However, some women experience more severe symptoms, such as feelings of sadness, anxiety, and loneliness that last for weeks or even months. This condition is known as postpartum depression (PPD), and it can be extremely difficult to manage on one's own.
 
Thankfully, counseling is available online. Online therapy offers a number of benefits for women struggling with PPD. First, it is very convenient and can be done from the comfort of one's own home. Second, it is often more affordable than in-person therapy. Third, it provides a sense of anonymity and privacy that some women may find helpful. Finally, online therapy can be very flexible, which can be especially helpful for women with young children.
 
While self-care won’t completely eliminate difficulties with breastfeeding, it can certainly better equip you to handle such challenges and improve your overall well-being. If you’re worried that taking time for yourself will take attention away from your baby, remember that the benefits of self-care extend to your little one. And if you’re feeling anxious or depressed, be sure to connect with a mental health professional. A well-rested and healthy mama makes for a happy and healthy baby.

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Parenting is a special journey. After all, not everyone will have the chance to raise little human beings into full-grown ones. It’s definitely a responsibility that should not be taken lightly, so here's a guide to help you, parents, navigate the nuances of this world, so you can successfully nurture your little ones through every age and stage of their precious lives.
 
Health and Fitness
A focus on nutrition, exercise, and sleep will ensure that your kids remain strong and healthy.
 
9 Must-Eat Nutrients for Your Child
Best Ways to Help Children Fall Asleep at Nap Time
 
Mental Health
Keeping up with your children’s mental health ensures that they grow up to be kind, empathic, and productive.
 
Recognizing Mental Health Problems in Children
Adolescent Depression: What Parents Can Do to Help
 
Intellectual Development
Keeping up your kids’ brain development by keeping them engaged and challenged is vital in helping them reach their full potential.
 
Encourage Learning with Puzzles
How to Help Your Teen Develop Good Study Habits
 
Safety and Security
Educating your kids will equip them against the world’s many dangers because you won’t always be around to protect them.
 
Safety Hazards to Watch for Around the House
Teach ‘Stranger Danger’ in 4 Easy Steps
 
Self-Care for Yourself
While you may want to save every ounce of energy you have for your children, you need to budget some time for yourself and your interests as well.
 
Make Time for Yourself: A Self-Care Guide for Busy Parents
Use a Free Resume Builder to Help Land a Job You’re Happier With
Ensure You Establish and Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Working Parents, Save Time for Hobbies
 
When raising children, you really do have to be prepared to roll with the punches and change your methods as they grow. Parenting is a journey, after all, and one that’s rife with challenges in more ways than one. However, in exchange, you do get to enjoy the company of little humans and watch them grow. That, in itself, is the reward right there.
 
Photo via Pexels
Article courtesy of Daisy Jones
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Teton Women’s Health Center offers services ranging from clinic visits and office procedures to hospital management of our patients with antepartum care, deliveries, surgeries and acute gynecological care at both Mountain View Hospital and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. Reach out for more info today! 208-523-2060

The Life of a Single Mom is committed to seeing no single mom walk alone. Connect with us to find out more! 225-341-8055