Find Strength in Every Story. Share Your Own. Becoming a mom is one of life’s most powerful journeys. It’s filled with moments of excitement, uncertainty and joy. Whether you’re learning about early signs of pregnancy, exploring pregnancy symptoms week-by-week, or preparing for delivery, you’ll find care that listens, supports and celebrates you — through every stage of pregnancy and beyond. At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, …

You’re eating what you’ve always eaten. Your exercise routine hasn’t changed. Yet, you’re putting on weight. What gives? If you’re in menopause, it’s likely hormonal changes are partly to blame. Unfortunately, the same factors that cause weight gain during menopause make it more challenging to shed pounds. So, what’s a menopausal woman to do? Read on. The Menopause-Weight Gain Connection …

Every woman’s health journey is unique, but there’s one thing we all share — a need to prioritize preventive care. If you feel too busy and keep pushing your health to the back burner, now is the time to make it a priority. Taking charge of your health starts with staying on top of recommended screenings. These can help catch potential …

Breastfeeding can come with a learning curve for new mothers and their infants. Many overwhelmed mothers give up on nursing without proper support and preparation. To help new moms get ready to nurse – and have success – Debbie Hutchison, RN, IBCLC, a Registered Nurse Lactation Consultant at St. Elizabeth offers some advice and support. 1. Educate Yourself Debbie suggests pregnant …

Experiencing a pregnancy is an exciting time in a woman’s life. In addition to all the steps to prepare for the healthy new arrival of her baby, an expecting mom should also make a point of checking in on her own health — especially when it comes to her heart. A woman’s body undergoes many changes during pregnancy, including increased …

Staying on top of your health means making time for an annual gynecologist visit. Abby Loftus-Smith, MD, an Obstetrician-Gynecologist practicing at St. Elizabeth, says, “It’s not just about Pap smears — it’s a full spectrum of care.” Many women wonder if a yearly appointment is necessary if they’re healthy. And guidelines for certain screenings, like Pap smears and mammograms, may …

Sisters Laura Smith and Marie Sartori grew up dreaming of being mothers. They’d often role-play with Barbies or baby dolls. Just two years apart, the sisters now have three children each. Marie welcomed her third child — a baby girl — at St. Elizabeth Healthcare Family Birth Place in March. Laura returned to the Family Birth Place in May for …

What is Bladder Pain Syndrome? Bladder pain syndrome, otherwise known as Interstitial Cystitis (IC), is a chronic pain condition that affects approximately 3-8 million individuals in the United States alone. It is more common in women, though the rates are increasing in men. The American Urologic Association (AUA) defines IC as an unpleasant sensation that appears to be related to …

Migraines in women are more common than you might think. While 15% of the population experiences migraines, three in four migraine sufferers are women, according to the Office on Women’s Health. Migraine headaches are caused by electrical activity in the brain responsible for pain and light sensitivity. This pain makes it difficult for many people to function in their everyday …

You do a lot. Maybe you’re the one your friends call for advice. Maybe you’re helping a parent. Or showing up for your children, coworkers, neighbors and community — always making space for others. But when was the last time you made space for yourself? This Mother’s Day, we invite every woman — whether you’re a mom, daughter, aunt or friend …