Newnan, Ga. (March 7, 2013) – Women interested in learning more about pregnancy and those who are already pregnant are invited to attend a special event on Tuesday, March 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Piedmont Newnan Hospital.
Attendees can unwind with mini-massages, food, “mommy mocktails” and tours of the beautiful new facility. They’ll also be able to speak one-on-one with doctors, a lactation consultant, nutritionist and exercise specialist.
“Often times, patients have a lot of questions regarding pregnancy and what to expect,” said Brenda Morgan, director of Women’s Services, Piedmont Newnan. “Our goal is to address some of the common questions and myths about getting pregnant and help women have the healthiest pregnancy possible.”
One key step to take before becoming pregnant is to be sure to maintain good health prior to getting pregnant. Women should track period cycles and take prenatal vitamins with folic acid as soon as they begin thinking about having a baby to increase chances of a healthy pregnancy.
“Stress reduction is also important for women trying to conceive,” said Neely Dean, M.D., of Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology. “Unfortunately, many stress relievers people use – like alcohol, caffeine and tobacco – can have a negative effect on a woman’s fertility and can affect the fetus once a woman is pregnant.”
Dr. Dean recommends exercise, meditation, yoga and getting enough sleep, which can all help reduce stress. She also recommends women watch their weight so they are neither overweight nor underweight, as both can make it harder for women to ovulate and achieve pregnancy.
The amount of time it takes for a woman to become pregnant is linked to a woman’s age. When women are under age 35, the majority of them who are going to conceive on their own conceive within 12 months.
“If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for 12 months, or over 35 and haven’t conceived after 6 months, I recommend seeing your gynecologist,” said Dr. Dean. “Egg numbers and quality decline with age, so we don’t want to take too much time before we find an answer.”
Topics to be discussed at the women’s event at Piedmont Newnan on March 26 include:
• The Healthy Woman. Why it is important to take care of yourself prior to becoming pregnant.
• The Pregnant Woman. What to expect when you’re expecting, a basic overview of pregnancy and how to keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy and childbirth.
• Your Baby. Tips on taking care of your baby after birth, including choosing a pediatrician and infant safety.
• Life After Baby. How to take care of yourself at home after delivery, getting back in shape, eating right while nursing and going back to work.
This event is free to the public; however, registration is required to attend. To register, call 404-605-2430 or visit piedmontnewnan.org.