If you’ve given birth, science is now confirming what you’ve probably suspected: Your feet grew.  

Pregnancy may permanently change the size and shape of a woman’s feet, suggests a recent study published in the American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The study followed 49 women from the start of their pregnancy to five months after delivery. Researchers discovered that 60 to 70% of the women had longer and wider feet than when their pregnancies began. First pregnancies may account for most of these changes, the study suggests. 

The weight gained during pregnancy and looseness of ligaments cause the arch of the foot to flatten out. Pregnancy hormones loosen the ligaments around your pelvis to prepare your body to give birth. They also relax the ligaments in your feet, causing the bones to spread and widen, creating a need to wear a half or full-size bigger shoe. This can happen as early as the second trimester, and your feet can continue to increase in size until late in the pregnancy. Once your baby arrives, you may be able to go back to your regular shoe size but in some case you may have to go up a size. 

“Whatever you do, don't try to squeeze into your old shoes,” said Hung Le, D.P.M., podiatrist with Genesis Foot & Ankle. “Wearing tight-fitting shoes can aggravate bunions and cause a host of other painful foot problems, from ingrown toenails to corns and calluses.”  

Be sure to call your OB/GYN if you notice a sudden increase in swelling in your feet or ankles as it can be a potential sign of preeclampsia or a blood pressure issue.  

Your foot isn't really growing, but the ligaments aren't as tight as they were before pregnancy. So, this is a great time to treat yourself to new shoes.  

If you’ve given birth, science is now confirming what you’ve probably suspected: Your feet grew.

We should be actively involved in our doctor’s appointment to help make decisions about our health and the best, most cost-effective treatment. But sometimes that’s easier said than done because some medical terms can be confusing, and it’s hard to recall what we don’t understand.   

Studies show 40-80% of medical information we hear our provider tell us is forgotten immediately and almost half the information that is remembered is incorrect. Take notes while you are with your provider. 

If you don’t understand, don’t be shy – keep asking questions. It’s your body, after all. It’s easy to forget what you want to ask once you’re at the doctor’s office, so be sure and bring a list of questions that includes any medications or supplements that you’re taking. 

It’s easier to recall the diagnosis than the treatment. Ask for simple, specific instructions about the treatment plan so they can be recalled and followed.  

If you understand your diagnosis and the treatment plan, and follow it, you’ll be more satisfied with your healthcare.

If you have questions or concerns about your diagnosis or treatment once you’re home, contact your doctor.  

We should be actively involved in our doctor’s appointment to help make decisions about our health and the best, most cost-effective treatment. But sometimes that’s easier said than done because some medical terms can be confusing, and it’s hard to recall what we don’t understand.   

Surprise, you’re pregnant!  

Or maybe it’s more accurate to say, “You’re pregnant? Here come the surprises!” 

 Whether you’ve planned for this pregnancy or not, the unique process of pregnancy arrives with unexpected and sometimes delightful side effects. 

So here are six pregnancy surprises to know about:   

1. You’re growing a baby and an extra organ.

We know a woman’s body grows a baby during pregnancy, but how about that extra organ moms produce to care for their bundle of joy? The placenta is an organ that serves as a sustaining station, providing oxygen and nutrients for the developing fetus. It also removes waste products from the baby’s blood. Vaginal deliveries come with an after-birth; think “after party,” but less party because the placenta needs to be removed.   

2. Morning sickness won’t tell time.

Despite its name, nausea and vomiting can occur around-the-clock. Though most women only experience morning sickness during the first trimester, some go green with queasiness throughout nine months. In severe cases, morning sickness can cause dehydration or loss of pre-pregnancy body weight, requiring hospitalization with intravenous (IV) fluids and medication. Talk with a physician if your morning sickness just won’t quit.  

3. Take caution of joints + relaxin’.

The hormone “Relaxin” (yes, that’s the real name) loosens hip joints and the pelvis in preparation for a vaginal birth.  

Be aware that relaxin also works its magic on all joints, ligaments and muscles in the body. That means it’s easier to roll an ankle or feel wobbly knees. Plus, with lax ligaments and added baby weight, back discomfort may flare. Avoid injuries by not lifting heavy items, skipping high heels and prioritizing prenatal, low-impact strength exercises.  

4. You’re craving what?!?

Pickles and ice cream are classic pregnancy cravings, but what about chalk, soap, coffee grounds or soil? Cravings for non-food substances are called “pica,” a Latin word for magpie, a bird known for eating almost anything. 

“Cravings for earth substances such as chalk or clay is known as geophagia. Such cravings can be linked to iron deficiency,” explained Callie Crider, D.O, obstetrician/gynecologist with the Genesis OB/GYN Group. 

Although the body may yearn for non-edible oddities, say no to non-food items since they can be toxic to mom and baby. Instead, talk with your physician about the pica cravings and begin monitoring your iron intake, along with other vitamins and minerals.  

5. Docs approve depression meds.

The risk of birth defects from exposure to antidepressant medication is very low. On the other hand, untreated mental illness poses risks to a developing fetus. For example, a depressed woman is less likely to seek quality prenatal care and more likely to engage in unhealthy habits and behaviors like smoking or substance abuse. While doctors approve most antidepressant medication, it’s essential to recognize that approximately 30 percent of babies whose mothers take antidepressants will experience neonatal adaption syndrome, which can cause temporary jitteriness, irritability or difficulty breathing. Concerned? Bring up the topic during your next ob-gyn appointment.  

6. Your heart is full!

Mix extra hormone doses and life-changing events and you’re sure to have a heart full of emotions – but during pregnancy, that’s not all it’s full of. Blood volume increases between 30 and 50 percent during pregnancy. In addition to pumping more blood, the heart also pumps faster by 10 to 15 bpm. Typically, normal heart function will resume a few weeks after labor and delivery. In the meantime, mothers with pre-existing heart conditions should talk with their physician for the best ways to manage conditions and prevent complications.  

Have more questions? Uncovering more pregnancy surprises? Talk with your physician or reach out to Genesis Maternity Services at 740-454-4321. 

Surprise, you’re pregnant!  Or maybe it’s more accurate to say, “You’re pregnant? Here come the surprises!” Whether you’ve planned for this pregnancy or not, the unique process of pregnancy arrives with unexpected and sometimes delightful side effects. 

Thinking about having a baby or already trying to get pregnant? It’s never too early to start getting ready. Experts agree being well-informed and adopting healthy lifestyle habits prior to pregnancy is one of the smartest things you can do. 

Even if you’ve been pregnant before, check out our Top 10 Pregnancy Prep Tips to make sure you’re not missing anything. 

1. Talk with your doctor 

Before getting pregnant, talk to your doctor first. Your doctor will ask you about your health history, medications you are taking and previous pregnancy problems you may have experienced. They’ll let you know if you need any vaccines or if you should make some lifestyle changes prior to pregnancy. 

2. Stop drinking alcohol, smoking and using certain drugs 

Drinking alcohol, smoking and using certain drugs is not the way to prep your body for pregnancy. Not only are they bad for you, they put your unborn baby at risk for birth defects and premature birth. Need help breaking a habit? Ask your doctor for resources and advice. 

3. Take folic acid every day 

Experts recommend you take 400 micrograms of folic acid at least one month before becoming pregnant and at least one month during pregnancy. Doing so greatly reduces the risk your baby will be born with brain or spinal birth defects. 

4. Avoid toxic substances  

Before and during pregnancy, avoid toxic substances like fertilizer, synthetic chemicals, bug spray and rodent feces. If you have a cat, don’t clean the litterbox yourself either. Exposure to toxic substances is not only dangerous, it can make it hard to become pregnant.  

5. Maintain a healthy weight 

Being either underweight or overweight can cause problems. If you’re obese, it’s harder to great pregnant, plus you’re more likely to miscarry or experience stillbirth. If you’re underweight, there’s a greater chance your baby will be born premature or a low birth weight. 

6. Get help if you’re experiencing violence 

Domestic violence not only is wrong and puts you at risk – your unborn baby could be injured, too, or worse. If you need help, talk confidentially to your doctor, or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233).  

7. Address any existing health issues 

Certain health problems can potentially get worse when you are pregnant. If you have any pre-existing health issues, such as asthma or diabetes, you should talk to your doctor before getting pregnant to discuss how these things might affect you or your unborn baby.  

8. Get mentally strong 

Stress, sadness and depression take their toll mentally, and they’re also not good for your physical health. So, if you’re planning to become pregnant and these issues are a concern for you, talk to your doctor about care or treatment options that are available to you. 

9. Cut out the caffeine 

If you drink more than two cups of coffee or five cans of caffeinated soda a day you could have a harder time getting pregnant – and a have greater chance of miscarriage. The obvious choice is water – not only is it one of the healthiest options, it’s also free. 

10. Start – or keep – exercising 

Exercising before pregnancy supports your body and can help it handle the changes that you will go through during pregnancy and birth. If you already exercise moderately, you should be able to continue with strength and aerobic exercise. If you haven’t exercised, you should add exercise into your habits more gradually. 

Sources: 

https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/ 

https://www.thehotline.org/ 

https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period 

Even if you’ve been pregnant before, check out our Top 10 Pregnancy Prep Tips to make sure you’re not missing anything. 

There are no two ways about it – breast cancer is scary. The reality is that most women (and men, who also get breast cancer) will not die from the disease. Nevertheless, a breast cancer diagnosis changes your life, regardless of the treatment path you take. While there are factors that lead to breast cancer, like genetics, that can’t be changed, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of getting the disease. And the earlier you start to take these steps, the better. 

Here are some common questions and answers about breast health and preventing breast cancer you may find helpful. 

Q: I have breast cancer in my family. At what age should I start getting mammograms? 

A: You should understand the benefits and potential risks of mammography screening, discuss your personal situation with a trusted healthcare provider, and decide together when to begin screening. 

Q: How important are self-breast exams?  

A: Self-breast exams are very important, and you should do once a month. This will help you to be familiar with your breasts so that you can notice any changes that may be concerning. If you discover a change, call your doctor to follow up. 

Q: Does my weight matter when it comes to my risk of developing breast cancer?  

A: Being overweight can be a factor. Excess weight increases estrogen (a hormone) and affects other growth factors. Hormones create a more stimulating environment for cancer cells to grow. Maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause.    

Q: I am not overweight, but my diet isn’t the best. I eat a lot of fast food and snacks. Is that a problem? 

A: It can be. Sugar feeds cancer cells. You should follow a healthy diet. Eat primarily whole foods: whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein and low-fat dairy. Limit alcohol and sugar consumption.  

Q: Can smoking affect my chances of getting breast cancer? 

A: Yes. The risk of invasive breast cancer is highest in women who began smoking at a young age. If you currently smoke, talk to your doctor about effective smoking cessation programs.  

Q: I work at a desk job, and I don’t get very much exercise. Should I be concerned this may play a role in breast cancer? 

A: Women who exercise regularly have lower risks for breast cancer. Start moving more as soon as you can; just 30 minutes of exercise a few times a week can make a difference. 

Q: I’ve heard that not getting enough sleep could be a factor is developing breast cancer. Is that true, and if so, why? 

A: It may be a factor. Sleep metabolizes stress hormones, and we know that high levels of stress in your life can impact many health factors, including your body’s defenses against cancer.  

The bottom line? Keep your breasts healthy by making good lifestyle choices. Talk with your doctor about your breast health during your regular checkups. And be sure to see your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts. 

Here are some common questions and answers about breast health and preventing breast cancer you may find helpful.

Becoming a parent for the first time is exciting, joyful – and overwhelming. Helping your loved one prepare for the baby’s birth will make the transition to parenthood easier. Your help can also get the new family started on the right foot for a lifetime of health and happiness. 

Becoming a parent for the first time is exciting, joyful – and overwhelming. Helping your loved one prepare for the baby’s birth will make the transition to parenthood easier. Your help can also get the new family started on the right foot for a lifetime of health and happiness.

How do you know when helping your father or mother in-law becomes more than a once-in-a-while thing – making you a full-fledged member of the Sandwich Generation?

Your relationship with your doctor is one of the most important and personal ones you'll ever have, which is why you should be in one with a primary care provider (PCP). A PCP, or family doctor, is your first point of contact when you need non-emergency care for a wide variety of medical issues. Your PCP advocates for you and works with specialists and other healthcare professionals. Your PCP provides preventive care, identifies and treats common medical conditions and teaches healthy lifestyle choices. Yes, you need a PCP.  

Q: Why do I need a PCP? 

A:  Your PCP can take care of non-emergency health issues, such as colds, flu and rashes as well as your preventive health needs, like routine screenings. Each contact is an opportunity for prevention and health promotion. If your condition requires a referral, your PCP coordinates your care, and is a designated resource for specialists that knows you and your health history.  

Q: What’s a nurse practitioner and physician assistant?  

A: They are practitioners who go through a different training and certification process than doctors. They may serve as your PCP in some medical practices. 

Q: Is my PCP my lowest cost option for healthcare? 

A: Visits to your PCP are less expensive than visits to urgent care clinics, Emergency Departments or specialists.  

Q: Do I have to see my PCP for a referral?  

A: Your PCP handles your overall care and can coordinate medical treatments across many specialties if a condition is beyond their scope. These specialists are responsible for your treatment, but your PCP oversees the entire series of events. Check with your insurance company on referral requirements.  

Q: Who do I see if I have a chronic condition?  

A: Chronic health conditions like diabetes, arthritis and lupus can be difficult to monitor by yourself. A PCP can help you stay aware of how your chronic disease is affecting your body. Scheduling regular visits and performing routine tests are two ways your doctor can help you maintain your chronic condition.  

A PCP will get to know you and your family medical history well enough to ask the right questions and detect other health issues in their early stages. They’re trained to care for a person from infancy to advanced age. Find a PCP close to where you work or live and start the important relationship.   

Your relationship with your doctor is one of the most important and personal ones you'll ever have, which is why you should be in one with a primary care provider.