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Healthy Pregnancy
Sunday, April 11, 2010
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal
PROVIDED BY BAPTIST HEALTH CARE
Prenatal Care Improves Pregnancy Outcomes Early and frequent prenatal care is the best way for a woman to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. Monitoring the progress of a pregnancy helps identify concerns before they become serious for either mom or baby. However, a considerable number of women do not seek prenatal care. “For the wealthiest country in the world with the most advanced medical system, our preterm labor rates, stillbirths, teen pregnancy rates and virtually all measures of outcomes are well behind most industrial countries — largely a reflection of the lack of prenatal care,” said Dr. Robert Andrews, OB/GYN, FirstPhysicians, and active member of the Baptist Hospital medical staff. Prenatal Care Critical to Early Intervention
Prenatal care encompasses any health care an expecting mother receives during pregnancy. Women who regularly see a health care provider while pregnant have healthier babies, are less likely to deliver prematurely, and are less likely to have other serious problems related to pregnancy. “There are many conditions and diseases that can occur during pregnancy that can cause
harm to the mother or baby — some instances even lifethreatening,” said Paul LaRose, OB/GYN, FirstPhysicians, and active member of the Baptist Hospital medical staff. “Conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes may develop during pregnancy and can cause stillbirth or maternal disease. Nearly one-third of women have some type of pregnancyrelated complication. Without adequate prenatal care, you run the risk of a complication going undetected or not identifying it early enough to be effectively treated. LaRose and Andrews both indicate one of the most important elements of prenatal care is determining gestational age, or the age of an embryo or fetus. This stage must be determined in the early part of the pregnancy because it is not possible to determine an accurate due date later in pregnancy. “By knowing the due date, we can plan for the delivery which is especially important when certain diseases occur that may put the baby at risk” said LaRose. Andrews adds that accurate gestational age is critical to interventions such as preventing early delivery or initiating early delivery.
“If a woman is unsure of her last period and presents for care at 28 weeks, an ultrasound estimate can be plus or minus three weeks for a six-week range of error,” said Andrews. “Being too early for delivery or well overdue are huge risk factors and we need the best information possible to support healthy outcomes.”
riage may be discussed. “The risk for miscarriage is about 15 percent in the first three months of pregnancy,” said Andrews. “This can be with or without bleeding. I invite patients to come into the office if bleeding occurs in the first trimester.” Your doctor may also talk with you about envi-
Your First Visit
During your first visit, your doctor will ask a variety of questions to better understand your health. Your doctor may: • Ask you about your health, your partner’s health and the health of your close family members. Don’t worry if you don’t know all the answers. • Identify medical concerns. • Discuss medications you are taking. • Do a physical exam and a pelvic (internal) exam. • Record your weight. • Check your blood pressure. • Check a urine sample for infection. • Do some blood tests to check for anemia and see if you have had certain infections. You will be asked if you want a test for HIV, the virus that
The Mother Baby Care Center at Baptist Hospital offers a wealth of prenatal education to help you have an informed pregnancy.
opportunity for the expectant mother to ask about diet, exercise and lifestyle habits that may affect her pregnancy. “If you are a smoker, pregnancy is great motivation to quit,” said Andrews. “Smoking increases miscarriage risk for starters, and the more you smoke, the worse the effects.” Andrews notes there are an endless number of questions to be asked and answered, but if mothers don’t initiate their prenatal care early on, they may miss an opportunity to have a healthy, happy pregnancy and ultimately a healthy baby. Prenatal Resources at Baptist Hospital
causes AIDS. • Do a Pap smear to check for cervical cancer and other tests for vaginal infections. • Figure out your due date: an estimate of the day your baby will be born. Most babies are born within two weeks (before or after) their due date. • Recommend taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid (600 micrograms per day). Additionally, risk for miscar-
In addition to early, regular visits with your physician, the Baptist Mother Baby Care Center offers a wealth of prenatal education to photo from gannett help you have an informed pregnancy. To learn ronmental and animal expo- more about our learning opsures. portunities and our birthing ex“If you have a cat, ask your perience, call (850) 434-4567 or doctor about toxoplasmosis,” visit www.eBaptistHealthCare. said LaRose. “This infection org/MotherBaby. is caused by a parasite someDr. Robert Andrews and times found in cat feces. If not Dr. Paul LaRose are practicing treated, toxoplasmosis can OB/GYN’s at FirstPhysicians cause birth defects. You can Obstetrics and Gynecology, lower your risk by avoiding cat and are members of the Baptist litter and wearing gloves when Hospital active medical staff. gardening.” For physician referral, please The first visit also is a good call (850) 471-2221.
THE REGION’S CHOICE FOR MOTHER BABY CARE. The Baptist Mother Baby Care Center knows the birth of a baby is a very special time for your family. We provide you with the most personalized experience with spacious private rooms, amenities such as wireless fetal monitors and whirlpool tubs, and of course quality, compassionate nursing care that makes your experience special. We want you to feel confident as you welcome your special delivery into the world. Baptist offers pre- and post-natal educational programs such as Infant Care, Breastfeeding, Infant Massage, and even classes for older siblings and daddies. Our online retail store also offers a full line of breast pumps, nursing bras, clothing, even educational CDs and DVDs. You and your baby are in good hands at Baptist. With a seasoned, dedicated perinatologist and neonatologist, the Baptist Mother Baby Care Center handles everything from routine births to complex obstetrical needs. The availability of talented and compassionate physicians, midwives and nurses makes Baptist the region’s choice for babies, and their mommies. Most of all, Baptist offers a caring loving environment focused on you and your baby to help keep your experience as personal as it should be. We’re with you every step of the way. At Baptist, you can count on us to do our best for you – every day, in every way.
To learn more about the Mother Baby Care Center at Baptist or for a physician referral, visit eBaptistHealthCare.org or call 877.469.7500 and press option 3. 0000254022-0L
Our talented, compassionate Obstetrics and Gynecology Active Medical Staff: Jenny Allen, Certified Nurse Midwife Robert Andrews, M.D. Lornetta Epps, M.D. Vicky Griffin, D.O. Paul LaRose, M.D. James Maher, M.D., Maternal-Fetal Medicine Nicholas Sholty, M.D. James Sims, M.D., Neonatologist Tracey Thomas-Doyle, M.D. Elisabeth Tucker, M.D.
Pensacola News Journal
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Anticipation, excitement, surprises for
moms-to-be
WENDY CAMPBELL
Ella Brandt and her husband, Jud, are expecting the birth of their first child on July 16. The couple has been married for a year and a half. “We can’t wait,” said Brandt. “My husband and I are very excited about our first child.” The couple chose not to learn the sex of their baby. “We decided to wait and be surprised during the birth,” Brandt said. “We have no idea if we are having a boy or a girl. We will be happy either way. My family all chose to be surprised, and it was always fun and exciting, waiting in the delivery room to hear someone say ‘It’s a boy’ or ‘It’s a girl.’ We don’t get many surprises in life, so we decided this is one big surprise that would be wonderful.” According to Brandt, pregnancy is
going pretty much as expected. “The best thing about being pregnant is the anticipation and the excitement,” she said. “I enjoy sharing all the excitement with my husband. Each day is a little different. During the pregnancy, my body is constantly changing as the baby is growing. Each day, I learn something new about my body, and I imagine the changes taking place with the baby. Jud and I are both looking forward to July and seeing our little one for the first time.’’ The worst part of her pregnancy happened during the first few months, she said. “I am a teacher at Sherwood Elementary School, and I was sick a lot. It was really tough concentrating in the classroom when I felt sick at my stomach all the time. Another bad part of being pregnant and teaching involves my memory and organiza-
tional skills. I forget a lot more these days, and it’s harder for me to organize and plan, but it’s all worth it in the end.” Brandt said the baby will be a first grandchild for her parents. “Yes, this will be the first grandchild on my side,” she said. “My parents are very excited. This is the third grandchild on Jud’s side of the family.” “I can’t wait for our new family,” she said. “Family is very important to both me and my husband. The
Ella Brandt
Helping Mothers & Saving Lives in Your Local Community
birth of our first child is something we have been waiting for, and we are ready for all of the big life events as a family.”
The mother- and father-to-be have been thinking about baby names. “If we have a girl, we like the name Emily,” Taylor said. “We also like Lily and Betsy. If we have a boy, his name will be David Beckwith Taylor IV, and then we might call him ‘Beck’ as a nickname.” Taylor said she has enjoyed her pregnancy for the most part. “Being pregnant has gone pretty much as I expected it would,” she said. “I was surprised I didn’t get sick like I thought I would. The best part of being pregnant is the excitement; getting ready for the new baby. I like all the planning and getting things ready for when the baby is here. The worst part of being pregnant was in the beginning of the pregnancy, when I was nervous. We were making sure everything was going OK before we started telling people.” Because they are waiting to
ALL ABOUT THE SURPRISE For Amy Taylor, it’s “all about the surprise.” Amy Taylor and her husband, David, have been married for a year and a half. They are anxiously awaiting the birth of their first child, who is due Aug. 20. “We are both very excited,” Taylor said. “We are looking forward to seeing our baby for the first time.’’ They made the decision to “be surprised” during the birth. “We don’t know if we are expecting a boy or a girl,” she said. “We decided we didn’t want to know. We decided to wait and be surprised during the delivery.”
HERE FOR YOUR CHILD
• Catholic Charities of NWFL, Inc. (850) 436-6411 • Pregnancy Resource Center of Milton (850) 983-2730 • Bethany Christian Services (850) 478-6789 0000253840-0L
• Safe Harbor Women’s Resource Center (850) 439-2511
Early Morning Hours Cordova Office
• Florida Baptist Children’s Home (850) 968-1114 • Pregnancy Resource Center of Pensacola (850) 479-7685
SEVEN DAYS A WEEK PHYSICAL SCHEDULE FOR YOUR CHILD
When you purchase your Choose Life License Plate, 100% of your money goes to your county. Assistance for pregnant women making an adoption plan may include financial assistance with medical bills, temporary housing, transportation, utility bills, or maternity needs. • Alpha Center (850) 479-4391
Amy Taylor
HERE FOR YOU
Switch your plate today! www.Choose-Life.org
Participating agencies (listed as 501c3 with Pro-life policies) include:
learn the sex of the baby, choosing a theme for the nursery was a little more difficult. “We decided to make the baby’s room feel comfortable, and we chose natural, neutral colors to represent that ‘earthy,’ comfortable feel,” Taylor said. “The color scheme is earth tones, such as cream, tan, khaki and brown. If we have a little girl, we can blend in some lilac to add a little color.” Taylor and her husband differ on one aspect when it comes to their baby and a future college, she said. “I would like to see our child attend Penn State someday, but my husband, the ‘Ole’ Miss fan, can’t wait to give the baby one of his or her first gifts, an ‘Ole Miss’ pacifier,” Taylor said.
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INFANCY 5 DAYS 2 WEEKS 2 MONTHS 4 MONTHS 6 MONTHS 9 MONTHS 12 MONTHS
EARLY CHILDHOOD 15 MONTHS 18 MONTHS 24 MONTHS 3 YEARS 4 YEARS 5 YEARS
MIDDLE CHILDHOOD 6 YEARS 7 YEARS 8 YEARS 9 YEARS 10 YEARS 11 YEARS
ADOLESCENCE 12 YEARS 13 YEARS 14 YEARS 15 YEARS 16 YEARS 17 YEARS 18 YEARS
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Neil McWilliams, M.D. • Thomas Mignerey, M.D. Patrick Murray, M.D. • Ulrike Benny, M.D. Jeneile Cordell, M.D. • Jennifer Thompson, M.D. Karen Bounds, ARNP • Tavi Slevinski, ARNP Pensacola 478-1100 • Pace 994-0901 Perdido 492-5433 Mom’s Line 478-6667 (MOMS) Weekend and Evening Hours Board Certified Physicians
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal Priscilla Stambolic waits patiently for the birth of her third child. “I am very excited,” Stambolic said. “My due date is June 18. I’m having a little boy. His name will be Eli Milan Stambolic.” Stambolic is a proud mother of two children, Jasmine, 14, and Jaden, 3. She and her husband, Steven, are looking forward to bringing their new son home to meet his sister and brother. Stambolic said she has definitely learned “a thing or two” with each of her pregnancies. “I was very young when I had my daughter, Jasmine,” she said. “During that pregnancy, I experienced a lot of sickness. I was also very nervous and anxious, not knowing what to expect, not knowing how I was going to act as a mother. When I was pregnant with Jaden, my son, I was a little more confident. I didn’t experience as much sickness in the pregnancy, which was good. There was a time gap in between the two kids, so I was a little older and knew
what to expect as a mother.” Being the mother of a teenage girl has given Stambolic a new prospective on being pregnant. “As any mother of a teenager knows, life can be very interesting on a daily basis,” Stambolic said. “I keep thinking to myself that having this baby at home, all natural, will be a piece of cake, compared to dealing with the issues of a teenage girl.” With this pregnancy, Stambolic said her emotions have been right on the surface. “I sometimes ride the emotional roller coaster,” she said. “One minute, I am laughing, and then I turn around, and I am crying. It is difficult to control your emotions when you are pregnant. That never changes.” With two children at home, they aren’t focusing on creating
Priscilla Stambolic
the perfect baby nursery. “We decided to keep it simple this time around with Eli’s room,” Stambolic said. “We are going to merge Jaden and Eli together and have one room for both boys. The bedroom is already painted a cool shade of blue. We are thinking about adding some animal murals to give it a special look.” The mother-to-be is looking forward to the new challenges she will face with her third child. “When I was pregnant with Jasmine, I thought that once she got bigger, my sleepless nights would end,” Stambolic said. “Now that she is a teenager, I realize that sleepless nights are always a part of being a parent.
GREAT SUPPORT SYSTEM Laura Lee said waiting for the birth of her first child is very exciting. She and her husband, Bryan have been married almost seven years. “We are expecting a boy,” Lee said. “We haven’t chosen a name yet. We are reading baby books and looking at baby names. We are also looking at choosing family names.” She and her husband will have great help when the baby arrives. “We are so lucky,” Lee said. “We have wonderful family members who will provide a great support system for us, especially since we are first-time parents. All of our family is very excited for us. We are all ready to see and hold the baby for the first time.” For the nursery, Lee decided to go with the coastal look. “I love living in this area,” she said. “The Gulf Coast is a beautiful place to live. The scenery is wonderful. My husband and I both love living here, and we both love the coastal
theme, so we thought it would work great for the baby’s room.” Since they are expecting a boy, choosing gifts is easier. “My husband already put a basketball in the nursery,” Lee said. “He is very excited. He will definitely be a proud father. He is ready to see his son.” Being pregnant is basically what she expected it to be, she said. “The best part of the pregnancy is feeling my little boy move inside of me,” she said. “It’s very exciting and new. The worst part of being pregnant occurred early in the pregnancy when we were keeping it a secret. I am a very open person, and I wanted
Laura Lee
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to tell everyone, but we were waiting for a while. It was so hard to keep it a secret. I wanted to yell out ‘I’m pregnant’ to everyone I knew.” Lee, who works with the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce/ Visitor’s Bureau, is looking forward to spending time with her new baby. “When my little boy is born, I want to spend as much time as I can with him,” Lee said. “I know it will be hard to leave him when it’s time to go back to work, but I know it will be OK. We plan to use a church day care, and I know he will be well taken care of and cared for, but I know the first day I leave him there, tears will start to fall.”
Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Healthy Pregnancy
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Ask us how compound medications can help you!
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Healthy Pregnancy
Sunday, April 11, 2010
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal
PROVIDED BY ESCAMBIA COUNTY HEALTHY START COALITION
Are You Ready for A So you think you would one day like to have children, but not now? When do you need to start planning? Right now, is the answer. Right now will help assure your baby and your family will live healthier and happy lives. For young ladies and gentlemen, please stop and consider, plan before you become sexually active. What you do now through your teen years may seriously affect the rest of your life and that of your future children. I know you’re tired of hearing it, but you can’t hear the following enough times; stop or do not start any kind of substance abuse, including cigarettes; help yourself by attaining a healthy weight; and ensure that if you are on medications of any type that they are working and are adjusted
with your plan in mind. Be mindful of what domestic violence and mental health issues can do to a child in the home. Yes, having a baby is a big responsibility that requires planning, good healthy habits, consideration of proper environments, and most of all, being prepared to be pregnant and caring for a new infant. Reproductive Life Plan
The CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recommends that everyone should have a Reproductive Life Plan. A Reproductive Life Plan is a set of personal goals about having or not having children. It sets out guidelines you will follow to achieve these goals. You will make your Reproductive Life Plan based on
your personal values and the resources you will have to support your plan. What is important is that you think about WHEN and UNDER what conditions you want to have a baby or become pregnant. Then you assure that each of your actions support that set of goals. Please talk to your doctor, who can help you understand the clinical and lifestyle options that are best for you. Of course, you will have to have a long talk with your partner to find out if you are both ready to bring a new life into the world and ready to make the sacrifices that you will have to make to nurture and support that new child. DID YOU KNOW?
DID you know that almost half of all pregnancies in the United States are unplanned?
BABY
Yes, having a baby is a big responsibility that requires planning, good healthy habits, consideration of proper environments, and most of all, being prepared to be pregnant and caring for a new infant. Having a baby is an important decision that requires planning and preparation; it is not something you can leave to chance. DID you know that having sex makes babies, any woman who has sex without using birth control of some type has a 90% chance of becoming pregnant? DID you know that the chemicals and toxins in your home and environment can cause danger for you and for your unborn baby? DID you know that you can be pregnant and not know it for several weeks? That’s why every woman of child-bearing age should eat a healthy diet, take folic acid, exercise, protect yourself from AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections. Don’t abuse alcohol, street drugs or prescription drugs. DID you know you will be not only be helping yourself but helping your future baby if you begin a good multi-vitamin with folic-acid early in life? Eating foods rich in folic acid, such as orange juice, peanuts, green vegetables, beans
and peas, as well as fortified cereals, will help assure your baby is healthy. Do you know a simple 30minute walk each day will help you stay fit and trim or lose weight if you need to? Physical activity can help you look and feel better. Please remember to protect yourself from the devastating effects of AIDS and other STDs. You do that by carefully selecting the person you will have sex with; a person who is not having sex with other people is a good start. Always protect yourself and that baby you want to have one day by practicing safe sex, or better yet, wait until you are married and living in a marriage where you and your spouse are committed to each other and your family-to-be. When we talk about chemicals and toxins, we’re talking about lead, found in some dishes and pottery, carbon monoxide, chemicals from pesticides, weed killers, bug spray and even fertilizers. Bacteria that can cause serious illness and harm your unborn child can be found in litter boxes and in the soil. Use gloves to handle these items, and let someone
else empty the litter box when you are pregnant. Last, but not least, please make sure your vaccinations are up to date, and see your doctor for pap-smears, breast exams, blood pressure and testing for diabetes and other health conditions. Remember to manage any medical conditions you have to assure that you do not allow them to get worse. Take control of any medical condition you may have, don’t let it control you and your health. These are all things we need to think about for a long healthy life and for that special life you want to bring into the world one day. If you need help in getting ready, just call Healthy Start at 595-6641 in Escambia County or 626-6751 in Santa Rosa County.
Say
to...
A
Healthy Start Screening is a confidential form that you fill out in your doctor’s office an hospital that could give you access to free services to help you have and keep a healthy baby. Eligibility is based on those assessments, not on financial factors. Say “YES” and a Healthy Start nurse will contact you.
Say • Help in making doctor appointments • Childbirth classes • Nutrition education • Free foods from WIC
to... ServiceS • Breast feeding support • Parenting support & education • Counseling services • Family planning
HOSPiTAL - iNFANT ScreeNiNG For more information in escambia county call Healthy Start - 850-595-6641 Santa rosa county - 850-626-6751
www.healthystart.info
0000254024-0L
• Coordination of other community services • Home visits by health professionals
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Healthy Pregnancy
Sunday, April 11, 2010
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal
HOME:
PROVIDED BY WEST FLORIDA HOSPITAL
Bringing Baby
What You Should Know Before Leaving the Hospital Though taking your newborn as 16 hours per day, including home from the hospital can a stretch of four to six hours — and should — be a joyous per night. If she has trouble time, it can also present many falling asleep, try swaddling her unexpected challenges. Before in a blanket, gently rocking or bringing your new baby home, swinging her, or giving her a be sure to consider all the gentle massage. needs you and your baby will Deciding whether to breasthave as well as the resources feed or bottle-feed your newthat are available. Following are born is another important decitips to help make the transition sion. Though breast milk is the home from the ideal food hospital a little for infants, easier. baby forBefore leavmula ing the hospiis an actal, your baby ceptable alshould have a ternative. If complete physiyou decide cal examination to breastby a pediatrician. feed, it is “Unless there important are health probthat you lems, your baby prepare should have ahead of their first visit to time. Read Dr. Erica Frank, pediatrician the pediatrician’s as much as with West Florida Pediatrics. office sometime you can on during the first the topic, two weeks and and if you another one at two months,” need support, talk with your said Dr. Erica Frank, a pediatri- physician. cian with West Florida PediatAnother important considerrics. “However, if you are con- ation in bringing your newborn cerned for any reason about home is cleaning and bathing. your child’s health in between Your infant’s umbilical stump visits, don’t hesitate to call your will fall off 10 to 20 days after pediatrician.” birth, leaving a small wound that During the first six weeks or will take a few days to heal. Unso, your baby will not know til then, do not put the baby in the difference between day and a bathtub; instead, wet a clean night, so expect her sleep pat- washcloth with warm water tern to be disorganized. At six and gently wipe his body. After weeks, she may sleep as much the umbilical stump heals, you
can give him a traditional water bath in the kitchen sink or a plastic tub. Many newborns’ livers have problems processing bilirubin, a waste product of old red blood cells that the body no longer needs. When too much bilirubin builds up, it causes jaundice, resulting in a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Mild jaundice is common in newborns and is usually fairly easy to treat (such as with phototherapy). If your child is diagnosed with jaundice, be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations carefully. If left untreated, however, high levels of bilirubin can lead to kernicterus, a condition that can cause brain damage and physical impairment. Since 2004, West Florida Hospital has provided a simple, non-invasive test on all babies born at our facility that can detect jaundice. Babies 12 hours of age and older are tested at least once a day during hospitalization and, if needed, after discharge. Prior to discharge, mothers are given appointments for either repeat bilirubin tests and/or to see their pediatricians for follow-up. Here are some other considerations that may help make
your newborn’s transition home easier: • Car Seat — choose one that fits correctly in your car and make sure you install it according to manufacturer’s directions. • Crib — use one with a firm mattress that fits snugly. To avoid accidental suffocation, babies should not sleep with pillows or other heavy bedding. • Diapers — make sure you have enough newborn-sized
diapers on hand as well as the next size up. Newborns typically require anywhere from 6-10 diaper changes per day. • Stroller — today’s strollers come in a wide range of styles and designs, so consider your lifestyle and budget when deciding which one is best. • Safety — since safety is a top priority, be sure that your strollers, car seats, baby swings, etc., are up-to-date and work properly. Here are some other items that can help ensure your baby’s safety, especially when he begins to toddle around: • Covers for electrical outlets
• Locks for cabinets • Locks for toilet seats • Safety gates for stairs and rooms that are “off limits” • Cord shorteners for blinds and other cords that can be pulled • Corner covers to place over hard or sharp edges on furniture or fireplace hearths “Above all, remember that your child is an individual and will have individual needs,” continues Dr. Frank. “Learn what works best for you and your baby and contact your pediatrician if you have any concerns.”
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Healthy Pregnancy
PROVIDED BY ESCAMBIA COUNTY HEALTHY START COALITION
What Can I Do? Paula Holcomb, M. Ed Families Count Healthy Families Program Manager Every day, there are children who are hurt, abused or who die because people do not know what to do to prevent bad things from happening. Most often these things can easily be prevented with just a little information. Have you ever been in the grocery store and heard a child screaming at the top of their lungs? What did you think? What is going on with that child! What kind of parent would let their child behave that way? If you were to take a closer look, you might see a whole different picture. You may see a parent who just got off of work and is trying to get food for dinner. The child has been in day care all day, is tired and
screaming for cookies because he or she is hungry. The parent is trying to get what they need and deal with the child, and the war begins in the middle of aisle 4. How can you help that parent and child? Sometimes, a parent needs to know that all children misbehave sometimes. A kind word to the parent to say, “It’s really hard to shop with children,” or “I remember when my child used to do that,” to let them know that you understand that what is happening right now is difficult for anyone to have to deal with, and that you are not judging them. Helping them see that it is not the end of the world. Ask if you can assist in some way. If you have a child who you feel tries to push your buttons when you take them places, ask yourself: Is my child tired? Hungry? Feeling well? Am I tired? Hungry? Feel-
ing well? Sometimes, with a little planning, you can avoid the grocery store war by shopping at a different time or taking along a healthy snack or a toy so that your child isn’t wanting everything in the store. Understanding our children and ourselves can be helpful in avoiding a stressful situation. DANGERS OF CO-SLEEPING
Recently, you may have seen the public service announcements on television about babies dying when parents co-sleep with their children. Twelve babies died last year in the four-county area (Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton) due to co-sleeping. These 12 healthy babies were fine until they went to sleep. They would be here laughing and playing today if their caregiver had not slept with them in the same bed or on a couch or an easy chair. Sleeping with your baby can be convenient and comforting, but it can also be deadly. If you know someone who has a baby, sharing the following information with them could be the greatest thing you can do, and it might save a baby’s life. The safest place for a baby to sleep is in his or her own bed. Always place a baby on his or her back to sleep for naps and at bedtime. A firm sur-
face such as a safety-approved mattress covered by a fitted sheet is best for a crib. Soft objects, toys and loose bedding should be kept out of the baby’s sleep area. Don’t allow smoking around the baby. It’s OK to keep the baby’s sleep area close by, but separate from where others sleep. When breastfeeding, put baby back in his or her bed when done. A clean dry pacifier may be used when placing the baby down to sleep. If breastfeeding, wait until the baby is one month old before using the pacifier. Do not let baby overheat during sleep. If the room is comfortable for adults, the baby will be comfortable, also. Use one-piece sleepers instead of blankets. Do not use pillows or bumpers in baby’s sleep area. Remember, back to sleep and tummy to play is best for baby. take precautions
Taking care of a baby is hard work. Taking care of a baby who cries a lot can be overwhelming. Babies cry for many reasons. They may be wet, hungry, hot, cold, afraid, ill or just tired. A crying baby can make a person feel frustrated, help-
less, scared, worried, tense and even angry. Knowing this, you can prepare yourself or others for the crying that will most certainly happen at least once with almost all babies. Check to see if the baby is hungry or wet. Check to see if he or she is ill. Offer a pacifier, hold the child close to you, and walk or rock him or her. Take the baby for a ride in the car or a stroller, or put them in a baby swing. If you have tried everything, and the baby is still crying, put the baby in a safe place like a crib, and take a break, call a friend or another adult. Ask for help, and always remember Never, Never, Never Shake a Baby. Shaking a baby can cause blindness, loss of hearing, internal bleeding, paralysis, brain damage and even death. Summer is fast approaching, and fun in the sun and playing in the water is a tempting way to cool off. Water safety is a concern for all children. Did you
know that a young child can drown in less than two inches of water? Every year, children drown in bathtubs, buckets, coolers, ponds, ditches, fountains, hot tubs, toilets, pet water bowls and wading pools. Most drowning occurs in swimming pools, but we should also be aware of other situations where a child could drown. Never leave a child alone even for 1 minute around water. Always keep children at arms length whenever they are near any water. That way you can always reach them. Florida law requires a fence, alarm or pool cover or other barrier be installed on all residential pools, however, children have been known to get around these barriers. Removing tempting toys from in and around the pool area may reduce the temptation to play near a pool. Knowing how to swim and teaching children to swim is advised, but is not a substitute for constant supervision.
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Healthy Pregnancy
Sunday, April 11, 2010
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal
PROVIDED BY BAPTIST HEALTH CARE
Little Tommy is Expecting a New Getting siblings ready for new baby
Baby Sister
A new baby can bring many changes like you have to tell them every little “Bringing children to the hosinto a household. Schedules are mixed detail, a simple honest reply will do.” pital for a tour before the pregup, routines are interrupted, and priMontaina, a teacher for the Mother nancy is a great way to get them orities shift. As adults, we understand Baby Care Center’s Siblings Class, also acclimated and to illustrate where and welcome change with something notes it is important for you to tell mommy will having the baby,” said as exciting as bringing a new baby into your children about the pregnancy and Montaina. “At Baptist, during our the world, for siblings — young chil- new baby before anyone else does so Sibling Class, we take the children dren especially, a new baby can be a big they ultimately feel included and de- on a tour of the nursing unit, walk adjustment. velop trust in the process early on. around the rooms and even play Welcoming a new baby takes a conIf your child exhibits continued inter- with the bed. We also spend time certed team effort for a smooth transi- est, try these activities to support con- at the nursery window looking at tion. Children don’t always understand versation and understanding: the babies and talking about what the full scope of adding a new addition • Going through your child’s baby they see.” to the family, but they definitely feel pictures. After the baby is born, try to have emotional changes. • Reading books about childbirth a special time for just siblings to “As you are preparing your family (make sure they’re developmentally visit. Younger children are usually for the arrival the newest family mem- appropriate). really missing mom, so make sure ber, it’s important that everyone feels • Visiting friends who have infants. mom has an opportunity to free secure,” said LeeAnn Montaina, nurse • Packing a bag for the hospital. up her arms for hugs and holding. educator and lactation consultant, Bap• Thinking of potential baby names. For older children, help them feel tist Mother Baby Care Center. “The • Going to the doctor to hear the needed by giving them responsibilieasiest way to do that is to include ev- baby’s heartbeat. ties like getting diaper wipes dureryone in the excitement ing changing. of the pregnancy and Welcoming a new baby takes At Home birth. Open communication is key.” a concerted team effort for a smooth Once mom and the new baby are home Communication should from the hospital, be transition. Children don’t always start during pregnancy. sure you take time Preschool-age children understand the full scope of adding to allow siblings to don’t really have a contheir feelcept of time yet, so when a new addition to the family, but they express ings and really listen you start talking about to them about what mommy having a new definitely feel emotional changes. they are feeling. Try baby, and they ask when and set aside some it’s going to be here, use special time each day for the other seasons or holidays to help them un- Childbirth and the children. Read a book, take a walk derstand the time frame. With older Hospital Experience children, you can be more direct, Remember that your hospital stay is or color a picture together. Even 10 such as marking the date on the cal- an important aspect to address with minutes of individual time can make endar and crossing dates off as you children, as it’s possible that they’ve a big difference. “It is so important to always assess get closer. not spent a night away from you be“Always be honest in talking chil- fore now. Also, for older children, the your child’s feelings and where those dren about what is happening with thought of a hospital might scare them emotions are rooted,” said Montaina. mommy,” said Montaina. “Children because they know a hospital is where “Also take time to explain to them things like why the baby is crying, why will ask many questions. Don’t feel sick people go for help.
babies breastfeed, and why they need to be held. The more they understand, the more accepting they will be.” Children should never be alone with the baby without supervision. Be sure to help older children understand that hurting is never allowed. Some families experience regression, or going backwards in development, with siblings, but this is only temporary.
Resources at the Baptist Mother Baby Care Center
The Mother Baby Care Center at Baptist Hospital offers a Big Brothers/Big Sisters Sibling Class for children 3 to 8 years old to help prepare for the birth of a new baby in the family. For class dates and registration, call (850) 434-4567.
An advertising supplement to the Pensacola News Journal
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Healthy Pregnancy
11
PROVIDED BY WEST FLORIDA HOSPITAL
Selecting a
Pediatrician: How to Make an Informed Choice Children are not just little adults, which is why most parents trust their child’s health care to a pediatrician, a physician who specializes in the care and treatment of children. “Many children are unable to express their concerns, pains, or needs,” said Dr. Jason Strahan, a pediatrician with West Florida Pediatrics located in Pace. “As pediatricians, we have to be able to understand their needs in the way they are able to communicate them so that we can do the best job possible in providing their health care. We should consider ourselves their health care advocates.” Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important health care choices most parents will make. However,
Dr. Jason Strahan, a pediatrician with West Florida Pediatrics in Pace.
the selection process differs greatly from family to family. Some parents choose the pediatrician that was on call at the hospital when their baby was born, while others insist on a more hands-on approach to selecting a pediatrician.
Here are some tips that will help you make a well-informed choice when selecting the person that will provide medical care for your child: 1. Compile a list of pediatricians in your area that accept your medical insurance. If you skip this important step, you could waste valuable time considering physicians that do not accept your plan. 2. Call the individual offices to find out if they are accepting new patients. However, remember that some physicians will make exceptions, so don’t cross a promising one off your list entirely.
3. Ask your OB/GYN for a recommendation. He or she will usually be in a position to know the particular strengths of pediatricians in your area. 4. Ask people you trust for recommendations and ask specific questions about the pediatrician and his staff. You’ll want to know things such as: Are they helpful on the phone? Are they thorough in their examinations, treatment and advice? Are they friendly toward children and their parents? In addition, what is the typical wait time for an office appointment, as well as after arriving at the office? Getting answers to these and other pertinent questions can help you determine whether the pediatrician and his or her staff will be a good fit for you and your child.
5. If possible, schedule a brief meeting with the top two pediatricians on your list to see how your personal parenting style meshes with their philosophies of care. Remember, choosing the physician that y o u
will trust to care for your child is a very important step. Your goal should be to find a pediatrician who will listen to and respond to your needs, care about your child’s wellbeing, and be available when he or she is needed. “Above all, it is important to remember that your child is an individual with his or her own specific needs,” continues Dr. Strahan. “Learn what works best for you and your child, and contact your pediatrician if you have any concerns.”
Two Locations...West Florida Pediatrics Q
2120 E. Johnson Avenue, Pensacola Dr. Andy White and Dr. Erica Frank
Q
3521 Limbaugh Lane, Pace Dr. Jason Strahan
At West Florida Pediatrics, your child’s health is more important to us than anything else. We offer expert, compassionate care to newborns through adolescents up to age 18. Our services include well baby check ups, routine immunizations and acute needs. And our practice is backed by one of the largest healthcare networks in America. We invite you to visit Drs. Andy White and Erica Frank Monday–Friday at 2120 E. Johnson Avenue, across the street from West Florida Hospital. You’ll find plenty of parking, easy stroller access and spacious, kid-friendly offices. Dr. Jason Strahan is now seeing patients exclusively at the West Florida Primary Care office in Pace. Visit him Monday–Friday at 3521 Limbaugh Lane, near the intersection of Highway 90 and Woodbine Road. When you need a pediatrician, give us a call— we’re right here to make sure your child receives the best care possible.
Andy White, M.D.
Erica Frank, M.D.
Jason Strahan, M.D. Same day appointments available
(850) 494-3965 0000254019-0L