If you’re sexually active, but not yet ready to start a family, birth control is a safe and effective option to protect against unplanned pregnancies. But with dozens of options available today — from condoms to birth control pills to IUD implants and even surgery — how do you know which method is best for you?   Contraceptives can vary widely in terms of reliability, ease of use, health risks, permanence and more. So, the best birth control for you depends on your needs and...

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Trigger Warning: This episode discusses pregnancy and infant loss, which may be triggering for some listeners. In this episode, we delve into the often unspoken reality of pregnancy and infant loss. We discuss the importance of communication and combating the stigma surrounding these sensitive topics. We also explore the importance of offering support to those in your life experiencing this loss and how you can give that support. Please be advised that this podcast does not replace professional medical or mental health guidance. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or mental well-being, prioritize consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Join us as we navigate these sensitive issues with respect and a focus on creating supportive communities. Thank you for listening.

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You’ve probably heard the term time and time again: “breast is best.” That’s because it’s true. Scientific research proves the benefits to both newborns and mothers are too numerous to count. That’s why physicians and experts encourage all mothers to breastfeed, if possible. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast milk is the best source of nutrition for newborns. It has the right amount of fat, sugar, water, protein and minerals needed for...

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Regular visits and routine testing are a large part of the pregnancy journey to monitor the growth and development of your baby while helping to ensure you and your baby remain healthy throughout your pregnancy.   Summa Health breaks down various tests by trimester you can expect to undergo for routine prenatal care. The timings may vary, depending on your risk factors and individual situation, and for high-risk pregnancies, additional tests may be recommended, such as...

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While midwives are growing in popularity in this country, there are still many who aren’t aware of the care they can provide. Many people believe midwives help moms-to-be give birth in private settings, such as in their homes, without medication or medical intervention. While this may be true for some midwives, hospital-based midwives, like the ones at Summa, provide quality care in the hospital while maintaining a “home-like” feel. In truth, certified nurse midwives (CNMs)...

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You’re pregnant, so you can now “eat for two,” as the popular saying goes, right? Not quite. While pregnancy increases your body’s need for extra calories and nutrition, eating double the calories could cause you to gain an excessive amount of weight. To maintain a healthy pregnancy, you only need about 350 extra calories each day — and maybe slightly more during your third trimester. That’s roughly the number of calories in a half a sandwich and glass of skim milk. It’s not...

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Director of Obstetrics, Dr. Meghan Mehl discusses vaccinations for pregnant individuals and those planning to become pregnant.

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When you’re expecting, it’s especially important to keep moving. Exercise is an important part of a healthy pregnancy and offers big benefits for both you and your baby, such as: Boosts energy levels and makes you feel better by releasing endorphins Reduces back pain Eases constipation, bloating and swelling Decreases risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and cesarean birth Prevents excess weight gain, which is helpful in regaining your pre-pregnancy...

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Dr. Cheryl Johnson leads a discussion focusing on empowerment in the African American community, especially maternal health.

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Karen Frantz DeSeptis and Ericka Malone lead a discussion on SIDS, and important information you need to know.

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