Oh Yes, It’s Ladies’ Weekend

Come see the Healthy Woman team at the New Jersey Women’s Expo on November 5 and 6 at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft.

We’ll be there to answer all of your questions and tell you about the latest and greatest ways we can help you be a Healthy Woman—everything from how to get rid of heavy periods once and for all to the scoop on why we want you to be our OB VIP.

Plus, we’ve got great gift bags and giveaways!

While you’re there, check out what else the expo’s got going on, including cooking demos, shopping, guest speakers and a lot more.

Doors open at 10 am and it’s only $10 for the whole day’s worth of fun! For more info, go to www.macevents.com.

 

 

First Things First: What to Expect During the First Trimester

In the first trimester, you go from not even knowing for sure if you’re pregnant to incubating a tiny fetus who’s developed fingerprints. You may not even look pregnant during this period, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a lot going on behind the scenes. Here’s what to expect:

The Physical Changes

You may find that you feel like giving all the contents in your stomach the old heave-ho as early as three or four weeks into your pregnancy. Morning sickness, as it’s known (even though it can happen at all times of the day), is likely caused by the body’s changing hormones and a pregnant woman’s heightened sense of smell. About 75 percent of women will experience nausea or vomiting during this trimester—and half will go through both. Other physical symptoms common during this time include tender, swollen breasts that may expand a cup size; an increased urge to pee; food cravings; heartburn; fatigue; and constipation. If none of this happens, though, don’t worry—the effects of pregnancy are different in everyone.

The Emotional Changes

Finding out you’re having a baby is big news, whether you were expecting it or not. With changing hormones and all the stress that comes with bringing a little one into the world, you can expect to go through a range of feelings—sometimes all in one day—from worried to jubilant to overwhelmed to ready for it all to be over. Remember that your partner is going through a whole set of emotions, too.

The Baby’s Changes

The process from fertilized egg to fully formed human is an amazing one, and a good portion of this happens during those first few months. Organs and muscles develop, hair follicles and nail beds form, white blood cells produce, arms and legs sprout, and the vocal cords that will let out that first cry come together. The best thing you can do to keep all this on track is to be as healthy as you can. Be sure to exercise; fill up on fruits, veggies and whole grains; and take your prenatal vitamins.

The Doctor’s Visits

You’ll likely have your first appointment between six and eight weeks, when you’ll have a thorough physical exam with pap smear and ultrasound and go over your medical history. Be prepared to give your doctor as much information as you can about your health and your family’s health. At this initial checkup, your doctor will establish your due date and do blood work, as well as discuss optional tests to screen for fetal abnormalities. Now’s the time to ask all those questions that have been racing through your brain—at Healthy Woman, we’ve heard them all before and want you to be armed with all the information you need to comfortably move into the next trimester and beyond.

For more on what to expect over the next 40 weeks, here is a detailed explanation of your prenatal care.

 

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Ch-ch-ch-changes—when it comes to a woman’s health, they are never ending.

Just when we settle into each phase of our lives, a new one rolls around to throw us for a loop.

What can we do? Well, we can start by getting educated on what to expect and how to handle what’s coming our way. After all, forewarned is forearmed, right?

On Thursday, October 20 at 7:00 pm, in conjunction with CentraState Medical Center’s Live. Laugh. Learn.: Ladies Wellness Workshop, Healthy Woman’s own Dr. Susan Pacana dishes on the many splendored changes you’ll go through from adolescence to menopause, including the latest ways to deal with heavy periods, fibroids and endometriosis.

Join her for this not-to-be-missed open and honest seminar.

It’s more girl talk than lecture, so come prepared with questions!

See you at the Star and Barry Tobias Ambulatory Campus 901 West Main Street in Freehold!

For more information, go to www.centrastate.com/livelaughlearn or call us at 732.431.1616.

 

Prevention in Pink: How to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer

October has historically been a month of black and orange, but these days, it’s more likely to be dominated by pink. Everywhere you look, you’ll see products emblazoned with the familiar pink ribbon logo, football players charging down the field in pink cleats, and even the White House swathed in pink light. It’s all to promote awareness of breast cancer, a disease that will be diagnosed for the first time in more than 230,000 women this year.

With so many of our mothers, friends, sisters, co-workers and daughters affected, it can be scary to contemplate that your breasts, once reminders of your strength and femininity, could turn against you. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk — and if you are affected, there are amazing support groups and organizations all across the country for survivors.

Some risk factors, like simply being female and aging, can’t be changed, but others can. Leading as healthy of a lifestyle as possible, with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise, is one great step you can take. Limiting your alcohol intake to less than a drink a day is another.

Routine screening is also an important component — the sooner cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute recommend yearly mammograms for women beginning at age 40. Those at increased risk due to a family history may want to be screened sooner, so talk to your doctor if this applies to you.

Women at a high risk may also want to consider BRAC Analysis, which will help determine if you have a gene associated with hereditary breast cancer. High risk governs women who have had breast before the age of 50 or ovarian cancer at an age; women who have a family history of breast cancer (on mother of father’s side—first, second or third degree relatives); women of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry and more. (To find out if you’re at risk, click here.)

Shannon and Kyla Harris, two young sisters from Arizona, were definitely at risk—high risk. They had watched a number of women in their lives pass away from the disease. Understandably, they wanted to know what their odds were of meeting the same fate. When the results came back, Shannon, 24 at the time, tested positive. “It was a bit of a relief and I wasn’t at all surprised,” she says. “It was kind of like, okay, now I can figure out my options.”

For her, those options included a preventive mastectomy, a procedure many criticized as too drastic for someone Shannon’s age, but it’s a decision she doesn’t regret. Although breast cancer could still strike, she’s reduced the chances by more than 95 percent.

“I want to watch my son grow, and it’s just one less thing to worry about and stress about,” she says. “I feel great; it’s just a weight off my shoulders. I have a story to tell, I’ve met great people, and I feel stronger.”

It is important to note, however, that the majority of women get additional imaging over the course of time (MRIs and early and/or annual mammograms—both of which are usually covered by insurance) and are, thus, able to stay one step ahead of anything that may arise.

No matter what your experience with breast cancer, take some time this month to support any woman you know who’s been touched by the disease, reflect on what lifestyle changes you could make to give yourself the best shot at staying healthy, and wear that pink with pride.

About BRACAnalysis:

  • It enables you to make important choices and take steps to reduce the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.
  • The results of the test can make a significant difference in your life and the lives of your family members, depending on your family history of cancer.
  • The cost of the test is reimbursed by most insurance plans.

If you’re wondering if BRAC Analysis is right for you, visit www.BRACnow.com for more information.

 

 

 

Hey, Hey, Hey, Hey Ladies! It’s a Girls’ Night Out With a Healthy Twist!

The Great Barrier Relief

Not sure which kind of contraception is best for you? No need to fret.

Part two of Dr. Julie Leizer’s series on the topic talks barrier methods:

Barrier methods of contraception are some of the safest methods of birth control. They work exactly as they sound: they act as a barrier between the sperm and the egg to prevent pregnancy. There are different types of barriers, chemical barriers and physical barriers. Chemical barriers are called spermicides. Physical barriers include condoms (both male and female), diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges. This post is meant to give you a general overview of the different types of barrier methods of contraception and their effectiveness.

The Chemicals Between Us

Chemical methods of birth control, as mentioned earlier, are called spermicides. These are chemicals that are inserted directly into the vagina no more than 30 minutes before sex, and then should stay in for up to six to eight hours afterwards. They come in foams, creams, jellies and suppositories. Spermicides, if used alone, must be inserted before every time you have sex to be effective. The benefits of spermicides are that they are cheap, over-the-counter, and do not contain any hormones. The potential risks include allergic reactions and vaginitis, which is vaginal inflammation. Spermicides DO NOT protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or HIV. In fact, if used frequently they can actually increase transmission of HIV if your partner is affected. With perfect use, the chance of pregnancy is low, but with typical use (meaning use by the average person, who may not always use them consistently or correctly), the pregnancy rate is 28%.

Let’s Get Physical

Physical barriers include male condoms, female condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and the sponge. Male condoms can be made of rubber (latex), plastic (polyurethane), or animal membrane. Latex and poly-urethane condoms provide the best available protection against many STDs, including HIV. Natural membrane condoms do not protect against STDs or HIV. Male condoms are more effective when used with spermicides. In fact when condoms and spermicides are used together, the efficacy is about the same as with hormonal methods of birth control. The spermicides should be placed directly into the vagina, not onto the condom. Water-based lubricants (KY jelly, for example) should be used with condoms to prevent breakage from friction. Oil based lubricants (such as baby oil) can weaken and break the condom. The benefits of condoms (much like spermicides) are that they are cheap, can be bought over-the-counter, and do not contain hormones. However, a new condom must be used each time you have sex. With perfect use failure rates are about 2%, but with typical use the failure rate is about 18%. A possible side effect is an allergic reaction.

The female condom is similar to the male condom in the way that it works. It is a plastic barrier with two rings, one that goes close to the cervix and the other stays outside of the vagina. It should also be used with spermicide as well as lubrication. The female condom can be put in place up to 8 hours prior to sex. Typical use failure rate is 21%, but with perfect use failure rates are about 1%.

The diaphragm is a latex or silicone, dome-shaped device that fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix. It is not effective unless it is used with spermicide, which needs to be reapplied each time you have sex. Like latex condoms, only water-based lubricants should be used because oil-based lubricants can weaken the latex. A diaphragm should be checked frequently for holes by holding it up to the light. Latex diaphragms should be replaced about every two years. Silicone diaphragms may last longer. The diaphragm does not protect against STDs, including HIV. A condom should be used with the diaphragm to prevent STDs. One thing that makes the diaphragm different from other barrier methods of birth control is that diaphragms require a prescription and need to be fitted by a health care provider. If you gain or lose 20 pounds or have a baby, you need to be refitted. You should wait 6 weeks after giving birth to use the diaphragm until the uterus and cervix return to normal size. The diaphragm must remain in place for six hours after sex but no more than 24 hours. It can be placed two hours before sex. If it is placed more than two hours before, you need to add more spermicide with an applicator. The benefits of diaphragms are that they don’t contain hormones. The potential risks are allergic reactions and possibly urinary tract infections if they are not fitted properly. With typical use, the failure rate is about 12%.

The sponge is a doughnut-shaped device made of soft foam coated with spermicide that gets inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix. The sponge does not protect against STDs, including HIV, so condoms should also be used to prevent STDs. Use some water to wet the sponge prior to insertion, which can be up to 24h before sex. It should be left in place for 6 hours afterwards. It can be left in place for up to 30 hours total, so if you had sex more than once in that time frame you don’t need to use a new sponge. With typical use, failure rates are 12-24%, depending on whether or not you have given birth (efficacy decreases if you have had a vaginal delivery). Failure rates with perfect use are about 9%. A benefit to the sponge is that they do not contain any hormones. They should not be used during your period or before 6 weeks post partum. However, potential risks include allergic reactions and a very small risk of developing toxic shock syndrome.

The cervical cap is similar to the diaphragm, but smaller. It is a small plastic dome that fits tightly over the cervix and stays in place by suction. The cervical cap, like the diaphragm, should be used with a spermicide. It also does not prevent STDs, so it should be used with condoms. A cervical cap must be fitted and prescribed by a health care provider. It must be checked frequently for wear or holes and should be replaced yearly. Refitting may be needed after having a baby or after weight gain or loss. You should wait six weeks after giving birth to use the cervical cap. The cervical cap, like the sponge, is less effective in women who have given birth. Typical use failure rates are 13 to 23%.

When used appropriately and consistently, barrier methods of birth control can be very effective. The benefits of these methods are that they are relatively inexpensive and they do not contain hormones. Many women cannot take hormones due to certain medical problems or they just don’t like the way that hormones make them feel. Barrier methods can provide a safe alternative for patients who are very motivated and are looking for alternative forms of birth control. Remember, all of these methods need to be used each time you have sex in order to be most effective. They all prevent against pregnancy, but remember the only ones that prevent against STDs are condoms. Therefore, even when using other barrier methods condoms should always be used if you feel that you are at risk of contracting an STD. Also, always check with your health care provider if you are unsure which method would be best for you.

 

 

Dr. Julie Leizer grew up in East Brunswick, NJ and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. She is fluent in Spanish, and specializes with our Spanish speaking patients. After completing her Medical degree, Dr. Leizer underwent four years of training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, in New Brunswick, NJ.

Top Scheff

Healthy Woman Ob/Gyn is proud to welcome Dr. Elizabeth Scheff to the practice!

Originally hailing from Hamilton, New Jersey, the good doctor, pictured above with Healthy Woman co-founder Dr. Rebecca Cipriano, graduated magna cum laude from Fordham University with a bachelor of science in biology and then went on to receive her medical degree from UMDNJ—New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Scheff completed her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Yale and Pennsylvania Hospitals. Previously in private practice in Princeton for five years, Dr. Scheff is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology.

The entire Healthy Woman team is thrilled that Dr. Scheff is joining the family.

Dr. Scheff’s first day is November 1st and we’re booking appointments for her now.

Call 732.431.1616 or email us to book yours.

 

Prenatal Class Act

Healthy Woman patient and brand new mommy Lauren Busacca talks about why the Welcome to Motherhood class is not to be missed:

“My husband and I were so thrilled with Healthy Woman’s prenatal class run by Jennifer Iannacone. We were pleasantly surprised that in the time we spent there, we were not only informed, but entertained. Jennifer’s work and personal experiences meld perfectly to educate us on the possibilities and technicalities of what it is to bring a child into this world. Jennifer was well prepared and very thorough with all of us “newbies.”

Jennifer was excellent because she was so prepared—and even more importantly to me, she did not have an agenda. She was open about her personal likes, dislikes and experiences but also offered a different angle for the many different minds seated before her. Her tricks of the trade, such as her tennis ball (to ease back pain during labor), were very creative and effective.

Having given birth I can say that her techniques, suggestions and information were effective. Overall, I would say that this class is not only a great experience, but one not to be missed. Jennifer’s prenatal class is number one!”

 

 

Touchdown! Dr. Rebecca Delivers Former Jet Star’s Third Son!

In the past 10 years since Healthy Woman Ob/Gyn of Colts Neck and Freehold, NJ, has opened its doors, the beloved practice has risen to be the number one women’s healthcare provider in the state and help area women live healthier lives, mind, body and soul. With a mission of being its patients’ partner in good health by fulfilling the emotional, physical and psychological needs of women at all stages of life, through the provision of personal, individualized healthcare services, Healthy Woman Ob/Gyn continues to be the benchmark of progressive, personalized care.

Healthy Woman is New Jersey’s leader in obstetrics and gynecology services because of its staff of top doctors who provide the highest level of professional care in a friendly, relaxed, luxurious, eco-friendly setting and stay on the cutting edge of women’s health to deliver the best that modern medicine has to offer, including robotic surgery; Essure, a permanent birth control procedure; cryoablation services; and in-office ultrasounds.

Savvy women, state and local politicians, dignitaries and celebrities alike flock to the practice, founded by Joseph Cipriano, M.D., FACOG and his wife Rebecca Cipriano, M.D., FACOG, for exceptional care—and Amy Chrebet, wife of former Jets star Wayne Chrebet, is no exception.

Last week, Amy and Wayne Chrebet and their two sons, Luke and Cade, were proud to welcome baby Griffin to their team. Says Dr. Rebecca Cipriano who delivered the happy couple’s third child at nearby CentraState Medical Center, “Amy’s labor went so fast it surprised both of us. She started her labor around 8:30 am and by 11 am after one push she was holding her third son. I think this labor is a metaphor for Amy’s life: fast and furious! We truly had a great labor”

When asked about her experience with Healthy Woman, Amy said: “Dr. Rebecca has been taking care of me for 10 years now and I simply adore her. I’ll miss not seeing her every week now that my pregnancy is over.”

Queasy Does It: Natural Cures for Morning Sickness

If you feel like your stomach’s sailing the high seas on a wet and wild adventure you didn’t sign up for, you’re probably ready to jump ship and try just about anything to quell the swell of your morning sickness.

The times you’re feeling most washed ashore often coincide with baby’s most important developmental milestones, so the only remedies you want to go overboard with are natural ones that won’t harm you or your bubbling bundle of joy.

Try the following to curb the crashing waves of your stomach:

In the Morning

• Keep crackers on your nightstand to take a few bites of when you get up in the morning, or if you wake up feeling nauseated in the middle of the night.

• Rest for a while after you wake up but before you get out of bed. When you do get out, move slowly.

• Have a glass of water first thing in the morning. Adding a couple of teaspoons of apple cider vinegar can help.

Throughout the Day

• Keep sipping fluids throughout the day. Water is great, especially with a slice of lemon (just getting a whiff of lemon helps reduce nausea for some). If you’re vomiting, replace those lost electrolytes with a sports drink or a frozen fruit bar, which can be easier on the stomach.

• Eat small, frequent meals. You never want to be overly full or have an empty stomach, so by eating a little bit throughout the day, you’ll keep the optimal amount of food in your system.

• Stay away from spicy, acidic, fatty and fried foods. Bland foods without a pungent odor are likely your best bet.

• As much as you can, stay in well-ventilated rooms and avoid being around strong odors. Many women develop a superpower-like enhanced sense of smell at the beginning of pregnancy, so opening windows and keeping a fan blowing can help stave off nausea.

Other Tips

• Ginger ale is a popular way to settle stomachs, but ginger tea is even better. Other herbal teas, like chamomile, lemon and peppermint, can also help.

• Acupressure wrist bands commonly sold to cruise ship passengers and others worried about motion sickness might come in handy for morning sickness as well.

• Always take your vitamins with food. B6 is one that helps some pregnant women with nausea—talk to your doctor about what dosage is appropriate for you.

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