When morning sickness is more
If you were one of the lucky few women in the world who actually got through pregnancy without so much as a twinge of nausea, you are certainly the exception to the rule. Most commonly known as morning sickness, many women don’t even suspect that they are pregnant until they begin those early morning visits with the toilet. What’s so strange about morning sickness (or all day sickness for some) is its uncanny ability to make you violently ill one minute, and still have you craving a triple decker bacon burger with all the extras the next. (more…)
Understanding Preeclampsia
Learn about preeclampsia to keep you and your baby safe.
A healthy pregnancy is at the top of every mom’s birth plan. Sometimes though, your body may have other ideas. Preeclampsia, which is sometimes called toxemia, is a condition that no mother can plan for or prevent. Preeclampsia combines high blood pressures along with protein that is released into the urine, and if left untreated can lead to premature birth, a smaller than average baby, and even seizures that could put both mom and baby’s lives in danger. (more…)
How early can I take a pregnancy test?
How early you are able to take a pregnancy test will depend on the type of test that you use. All pregnancy tests measure the amount of the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in your body. This hormone is produced when the egg is fertilized and attaches to the uterine wall, usually six days after fertilization. (more…)
Benefits (and risks) of prenatal massage
For some, the aches and pains of pregnancy seem to start as soon as they conceive. Some women never complain and feel like they could run a marathon when they are expecting–others, well, not so much. Trying to make due with a warm bath, and maybe even a maternity belt to help support your back and growing belly all work to a degree, but when they need more, many women turn to prenatal massage. While massage during pregnancy has been shown to help with many different maternal ailments, and perhaps even boost baby’s health as well, you must remember to do your homework and check with your doctor before hopping up on the table. (more…)
High-Risk Pregnancies
Every mother looks forward to delivering a healthy baby and feeling well during her pregnancy. But sometimes a previous medical condition, or an issue that develops while you are carrying your baby, can mean you will need more prenatal care and closer monitoring by Dr. Barbara Hessel.
Some of the conditions that may need to be watched more closely include:
History of preterm labor, preterm delivery or miscarriage
High blood pressure before or during pregnancy
Mental illnesses like depression or bipolar disorder
Placenta complications
Severe, long-term vomitingA baby that is growing too slowly
A genetic or physical problem in the baby
Carrying more than one baby (like twins or triplets)
A very young or older-than-average mom (teenage and over age 35 mothers)
Other medical problems such as asthma, lupus, thyroid problems or epilepsy
How Will Dr. Hessel Care For You?
If Dr. Hessel feels that you need more frequent prenatal care, you can feel comfortable knowing that you and your baby will be closely monitored. This may mean more frequent ultrasounds and measuring of the baby to see how he or she is growing, checking your vital signs more often or referring you to a nutritionist, mental health counselor or other medical professional as needed.
When it’s time to meet your baby, you’ll deliver at Long Island Jewish University Hospital, where a team of trained nurses, nursery staff and Dr. Hessel will be helping you every step of the way. From natural delivery to planned C-sections and everything in between, you will receive the most advanced care possible as we team with you with the same goal: healthy baby and healthy you.