As an expectant or new mom, we know you want the best for your baby. But this joyous time can also feel overwhelming — particularly if you face a substance-use problem. You may not know where to go or whom to ask for help. We understand, and we’re here to help, says Kellie Bishop, Baby Steps Program Clinical Nurse Liaison. …

Childbirth can be a magical event. It can also be overwhelming and stressful. For first-time and veteran moms, compassionate, knowledgeable support and personalized care with an individualized birth plan, ensure that every birth experience is both unforgettable and positive.  That’s why Markie and Angelica delivered their babies at the St. Elizabeth Family Birth Place. From conversations with friends and loved …

If you and your partner are expecting a new baby, creating a birth plan is an excellent way to prepare for your little one’s birth. A birth plan represents what is important to a mother and her partner during labor and birth. This includes both things you would and would not like during active labor, such as medications, aromatherapy, laboring …

With the bitter cold temperatures of winter in full force, parents might be unsure how to dress their infants to keep them warm in teeth-chattering temperatures – without overdoing the layers. Generally, parents should put one layer more on their baby than they put on themselves in cold weather, said Dr. John LaCount, a pediatrician with St. Elizabeth Physicians’ Florence …

It’s true that parenting doesn’t come with a handbook, but at St. Elizabeth Physicians, we’re here to help you transition into the wonderful – and sometimes overwhelming – world of parenting. Our experts have put together a helpful list of appointments that your child shouldn’t miss: 1. Newborn screenings at the hospital The St. Elizabeth Family Birth Place administers the …

If you are pregnant or considering getting pregnant, prenatal care should be at the top of your to do list, right along with baby names and picking out a crib. With the right prenatal care, both you and your baby’s health will be a priority through all nine months of pregnancy – and beyond. What are prenatal tests? Prenatal tests …

Many of us have experienced the “pee a little when you sneeze” phenomenon. Urinary incontinence isn’t something you have to live with – and it isn’t a normal part of pregnancy and post-partum life. Pregnancy and Leaking Urine: Why does it happen? More than 46 percent of pregnant women have trouble with leaking urine. Following pregnancy, one in three women …

You might know that urinary tract infections during pregnancy are potentially dangerous, but did you know they’re also often asymptomatic? Usually, UTI symptoms can include: Frequent urination. Difficulty urinating. Burning sensation or cramps while urinating. Cloudy urine, or urine with an odor. But during pregnancy, women aren’t as likely to be tipped off to a UTI by these clues. That’s …

In honor of National Midwifery Week, St. Elizabeth Healthcare is celebrating our midwives and the tremendous services they bring to our healthcare network. What is a Nurse-Midwife? It’s a common myth that nurse-midwives don’t have a formal education and only perform home births. That couldn’t be further from the truth! All certified nurse-midwives (CNM) are advanced practice registered nurses. At …

We all know about pregnancy cravings like pickles and ice cream in the middle of the night. But if you’re pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, it’s important to have a base knowledge of foods to eat and avoid during pregnancy. Pickles and ice cream are fine – in moderation! “I like to advise my pregnant patients to eat whole …