When the ‘Baby Blues’ Happen to You
During pregnancy and the first few weeks of a baby’s life, moms often hear things like “being a mom is the greatest.” Then, there are the pictures all over social media—smiling babies and moms who make motherhood look like a breeze. For those who don’t think they quite match up to these ideals and images, […]
Listening to Your Body
Ten years ago, Westfield resident Jennifer Fero looked similar to most busy moms: she was balancing a full-time job, taking care of her son, managing a household and helping care for an ill family member. There was no wonder why she felt tired all the time. Her skin and hair were dry, and her nails […]
Getting Ready for a “Birth Day”
When it comes to having a great birthing experience, all expectant parents have ideas of what that would entail. That’s why well before the Big Day arrives, it’s important to prepare by talking to your OB/GYN and the nursing staff about your preferences during labor and delivery. Remember, though, that no birthing request is binding […]
How to Avoid Meal-planning Failure
By Brittany Nelson, RD, CHWC If you fail to plan, you can plan to fail. I don’t know if I always agree with this saying, but when it comes to snacks during our busy lives, I certainly do. It happens all the time—you’re getting the kids ready for school and forget to fuel yourself with […]
8 Times of Year to Make a Life Change
By Kristin Lamb, CHWC There are several moments throughout the year when we are presented with opportunities to reset our habits and routines. In fact, these frequent, shorter intervals or seasons may be more manageable than aiming to make a significant change come January 1. Consider the following seasons in life as opportune times to […]
Understanding Cholesterol: HDL, LDL and Triglycerides
By Carol Gelatt, RN, BSN There are two types of grocery shoppers—those who race in with a list in hand and meticulously grab every item on the list before checking out and leaving, and those who meander up and down every aisle, not sure what they want until they see it on the shelf. But […]
Retiring? Make Health a Part of Your Plan
Valerie Beard, MD Riverview Health Physicians Westfield Medical Retiring doesn’t have to mean a total slowdown of your life—and frankly, it shouldn’t if you want to enjoy good health. Here’s what to add to your daily routine to feel your best in the years to come: Move! From an after-dinner walk to a trip to […]
Breastfeeding Problems & Solutions
Experts agree: Breastfeeding is best for your baby. So, if you’re running into issues, read about these common problems and solutions. Problem: “My breasts are swollen and rock hard.” Solution: That sounds like the breasts are engorged, meaning you’re experiencing pressure from a buildup of milk. Get instant relief by releasing your milk by hand […]
Chronic Pelvic Pain? Don’t Suffer in Silence
Burning. Stinging. Stabbing sensations. These are just some of the ways women have described chronic pain in the vulva, a condition known as vulvodynia. For some women, every aspect of their lives is affected by this constant pain. For others, the pain is caused by pressure or contact, making sitting for long periods of time […]
Pregnancy, the Flu Vaccine and You
By Dr. Stephanie Brazus Riverview Health Physicians OB/GYN When you’re pregnant, getting the flu can cause serious problems, no matter how healthy you are. That’s why it’s so important to get a flu shot before October, when the flu season generally begins. Why is the flu so dangerous? When you’re pregnant, changes in your immune, […]