Understanding Preeclampsia

by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Oct 1, 2020 | Pregnancy

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?

by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Oct 1, 2020 | Pregnancy

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

by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Oct 1, 2020 | Pregnancy

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

by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Sep 23, 2020 | Obstetrics, Pregnancy

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.

Discover FemVue for better fertility assessment

by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Nov 11, 2014 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

Many couples don’t expect to have trouble getting pregnant. It’s normal for conception to take a few months–even a year is perfectly okay for most women. But if you’ve been trying for longer than that (or if you’ve been trying for 6 months and you’re over the age of 35) it’s probably time to see your doctor for another checkup, just to see if there’s anything you can do to improve your chances of conception. (more…)

Younger women freezing eggs for later–but is it wise?

by Barbara Anne Hessel MD | Oct 24, 2014 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

Let’s face it–today’s woman has her eyes set on the prize. It might be a new or higher-ranking job, extended travel, or a life of leisure having babies isn’t anywhere on the achievement itinerary. In fact, a recent article published in the New York Times reports that women are delaying families even longer thanks to egg freezing as a component of their benefits package. Companies like Facebook and Apple have revealed that they offer the option to their female employees–opting to support their career goals and put family life on the back burner for later–maybe when women are in their 30’s, 40’s or even later.

But is it a wise decision? Dr. Hessel says freezers beware.

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