This week I was completely knocked out by the flu. I was plastered to my bed for almost two full days while my lovely husband cared for our son all by himself. Looking back I wonder if I could have avoided it altogether had I gotten a flu shot. Flu shots are taken for granted by some and hated by others. It’s a very controversial subject. A recent study, however, presents findings that are hard to refute. Yale compared the medical records of infants who had the flu with those who did not. An overwhelming number of infants who did … Continue reading →

I know what you are thinking: more swine flu news? On the pregnancy blog? Unfortunately, the swine flu has hit pregnant women especially hard. In fact, pregnant women will likely be given priority when the swine flu vaccinations are distributed in the fall. According to a recent AP wire, “pregnant women account for 6 percent of U.S. swine flu deaths since the pandemic began in April, even though they make up just 1 percent of the U.S. population.” Pregnant women are more susceptible to severe illness, according to World Health Organization experts, and could suffer spontaneous abortion and/or death, especially … Continue reading →

Flu season is here again. Some women choose to have a flu vaccine, but others for many reasons, including allergies, religious beliefs or personal preference, may have chosen not to get the shot. The best thing you can do is take steps to prevent the flu. The tips in this blog are good for other winter bugs too. Eat a healthy diet to keep your immune system strong to fight off viruses. Include foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus and kiwi fruits. Foods rich in vitamins D and E, such as leafy green vegetables and almonds are good … Continue reading →

I’ll be the first one to admit I was initially skeptical of the severity of the H1N1 virus when it first hit the media this past summer. When the controversy over the vaccine surfaced, I leaned towards not getting it, but now that we know a lot more about the virus and the effects it has had on our country, I am much more likely to get the vaccine if I can even get on the list. Because I am over 25 and my son is older than 6 months, I just missed the requirements for being in the high … Continue reading →

Pregnant women experience coughing to varying degrees. Often the cough is related to a cold or flu type virus. In this case, the cough will gradually improve and cease within several days or even weeks. However, some women experience chronic coughing throughout part of their pregnancies. When the cough is related to an illness, your doctor may prescribe home remedies, medicines or both. Medicinal recommendations will depend on the type of cough and may include antibiotics, allergy medications or prescription or over the counter cough medicines. Home remedies can be surprisingly effective for a range of symptoms, including cough. Tea … Continue reading →