The recent decision by Covis Pharma to voluntarily withdraw Makena, the only FDA-approved drug for the prevention of preterm birth, has sparked a robust discourse within the healthcare community. Initially endorsed in 2011 under the FDA’s accelerated approval process, Makena was considered a beacon of hope for at-risk pregnant individuals. The drug, a synthetic form
giving birth
Bringing a child into the world is often depicted as a beautiful, euphoric experience. However, the path to motherhood can be far more complex, challenging, and painful than the idealized narratives typically presented. My own experience with childbirth ended in a C-section, a scenario that unraveled my anticipated joy and replaced it with a conflicting
Pregnancy, a unique journey, brings a mix of excitement and overwhelming waiting. This final phase, notably from the last few weeks to the due date, can often feel like an eternity for both expectant mothers and their loved ones. It’s a time filled with anticipation, as well as the discomfort of physically carrying the child,
Childbirth is often perceived as a natural and joyous event, but a startling statistic reveals a darker reality: a 2023 CDC report indicates that one in five women experience some form of mistreatment during labor. The authors of this critical report note that mistreatment can manifest through a variety of harmful interactions, including the loss
As your pregnancy reaches its final stretch, anticipation often morphs into impatience. In these last weeks, many expectant mothers find themselves desperate for one thing: the onset of labor. Amidst the nursery preparations and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the impending arrival of a baby, countless rumors circulate regarding natural methods to induce labor.
The saga of childbirth is often fraught with anticipation, plans, and a sprinkle of hope. However, as was recently spotlighted by CNN news anchor Kasie Hunt, the reality can occasionally veer into the realm of the unexpected. Hunt found herself facing an unforeseen twist when she gave birth to her daughter, Grey Hunt Rivera, on
Reflecting on the birth of my son, Rye, in 2016, I realize how much has changed—not just in my life, but in the broader societal context. When I held my child for the first time, the atmosphere was charged with excitement; the nation was energized by Barack Obama’s presidency, and there was a palpable anticipation
The anticipation of labor can be a source of fear and anxiety for many expectant parents. The shared apprehension surrounding the pain of childbirth often leads individuals to seek a variety of pain management options. While traditional interventions like epidurals and spinal blocks have been standard practices aimed at alleviating labor pains, many are starting
The journey of childbirth is not simply a medical event but a deeply personal odyssey filled with unique experiences for every mother. Each birthing story, influenced by the individual’s circumstances, emotions, and physical conditions, contributes to the tapestry of motherhood. Among these experiences, the discussion surrounding home births after cesareans (HBAC) has garnered increasing attention.
Pregnancy is a transformative period for women, and the quest for optimizing maternal and fetal health has led to an increased interest in dietary interventions. One noteworthy area of research involves the role of probiotics—beneficial bacteria that promote gut health. Recent studies suggest that probiotics might not only support digestive health but also contribute positively