Smithfield Moms Collective

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Smithfield Moms Collective

Prioritizing maternal health literacy in the Western Tidewater region.

12/24/2024

In this season of giving, check out these tips to help ensure that you take care of yourself!

1. SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS: Avoid overcommitting or striving for perfection; focus on enjoying small, meaningful moments rather than meeting unrealistic holiday ideals.

2. PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE: Take time for yourself with activities like exercise, reading, meditation, or adequate sleep to recharge mentally and physically.

3. MAINTAIN HEALTHY BOUNDARIES: Politely decline events or interactions that feel overwhelming and communicate your limits to protect your emotional well-being.

4. STAY CONNECTED: Spend time with supportive friends or family, or seek out connections through community events or virtual gatherings if you're feeling isolated.

5. PRACTICE MINDFULNESS: Focus on the present moment with deep breathing or gratitude exercises to reduce stress and find joy amidst the busyness of the season.

12/17/2024

No matter what stage of life you are in, don't forget about the power of sunshine and the outdoors!

Scientific evidence shows that SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE IS CLOSELY LINKED TO MOOD REGULATION AND DEPRESSION.

Sunlight stimulates vitamin D production, with low vitamin D levels associated with increased risk of depression. Additionally, sunlight also boosts serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that promotes happiness, with reduced sunlight contributing to mood disorders like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Sunlight as well helps regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep and reducing depressive symptoms. Lastly, UV light exposure triggers the release of endorphins, which act as natural mood elevators and stress relievers.

12/10/2024

🌟✨🌟Did you know that birth-related pelvic floor trauma and its sequelae are associated with higher rates of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in the forth trimester?🌟✨🌟

But, the exciting truth is that YOU can do something about it! According to Johnson et al, 2021, as published by the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, prenatal pelvic floor education is a key aspect not just in reducing risk of pelvic floor trauma and its sequela, BUT also mitigating distress if it does occur!

Educate yourself as a consumer so that you may be able to advocate for yourself and find yourself a provider who will advocate for you!

12/03/2024

From a biomechanical perspective, the squat posture increases pelvic outlet size by 20–30% which may confer during child delivery greater overall ease and a shorter second stage of labour (birth of the child).

Higher levels of overall physical activity is known to benefit those who are pregnant, so don't forget to keep moving during pregnancy! It will definitely benefit your health and that of your unborn child, but who knows it could also help make labor and delivery a smoother process

11/26/2024

Check out this new decision tool out of Boston University - It is available for FREE online to help individuals who are 39 weeks + in a healthy term pregnancy to decide whether to go the induction route or not.

www.inductiondecisionaid.org/

Advocating for and empowering you for a safe, healthy pregnancy!

11/19/2024

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) encompass a range of mental health conditions that can affect individuals during pregnancy and up to a year postpartum. PMADs, including postpartum depression (PPD), anxiety, OCD, and PTSD, are among the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting 1 in 5 women and about 1 in 10 men. PMADs can occur during pregnancy (antenatal) or after birth (postpartum).

Understanding PMADs is crucial for new parents, healthcare providers, and loved ones, as early intervention and support can make a significant difference.

11/12/2024

Advocating and educating yourself is essential to ensuring that you have a safe and respectful birth experience.

1. PREPARATION: Review your hospital or birthing center's policies ahead of time, bringing a birth plan, and discussing it with your provider can help ensure your wishes are respected.
2. BRING A SUPPORTIVE ADVOCATE: A partner, friend, or doula can help advocate for your wishes during labor, especially if you’re unable to communicate them directly.
3. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: If you’re uncertain about a procedure, don’t hesitate to ask questions or request time to consider your options.

11/05/2024

You are not alone.

Genitourinary syndrome of lactation (GSL) refers to changes in the vaginal and urinary tract that occur due to low estrogen levels during breastfeeding. This can cause symptoms like vaginal dryness, irritation, pain with in*******se, and urinary issues. These changes are due to the body's hormonal adjustments while producing breast milk. Treatment options include vaginal moisturizers, lubricants during in*******se, and in some cases, low-dose vaginal estrogen prescribed by a doctor. Staying hydrated and using gentle hygiene products can also help alleviate discomfort.

10/29/2024

Know your body, protect your health!

Regular self-exams help you spot changes early, and screenings catch what you can’t see. Early detection SAVES LIVES!

10/22/2024

The most significant personal risk factors for breast cancer include:

1. AGE: Risk increases as you get older, particularly after age 50.
2. FAMILY HISTORY: Having close relatives, especially a mother, sister, or daughter, with breast cancer increases your risk.
3. GENETICS: Inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, significantly raise the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
4. PERSONAL HEALTH HISTORY: A history of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast conditions raises future risk.
5. HORMONAL FACTORS: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after 55), and long-term use of hormone replacement therapy can elevate risk.

Other factors include lifestyle choices like alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity.

10/15/2024

To reduce the risk of breast cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key.

Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight can lower your risk. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking are also important preventive measures.

American Cancer Society. (2023). Breast cancer prevention and early detection. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention.html

10/08/2024

The American Cancer Society recommends that women with an average risk of breast cancer start getting mammograms at age 45.

Women aged 45 to 54 should have yearly mammograms, while those 55 and older can switch to mammograms every two years or continue yearly screening. However, women can start as early as age 40 if they choose, and some may need to begin earlier if they have higher risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2.

It's important for each woman to discuss her personal risk and screening options with her healthcare provider.

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Smithfield, VA

Website

http://www.smithfieldmomscollective.org/

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