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Vitamin B-12 May Prevent Birth Defects
Vitamin B-12 May Prevent Birth Defects
Women of childbearing age (especially those who are pregnant or trying to conceive) are advised to eat 400 mg of folic acid (folate) daily to prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, from occurring in their babies. New research shows that vitamin B12 may also play a role.  

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Fava Bean and Red Onion Salad

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Take Control of Your Medical Care

You Have a Say
-- By Karina Downie, BabyFit Expert Mom

Once that pregnancy test colors the precious "positive" line, emotions begin to charge and a sea of pregnancy questions flood your mind. If this is your first pregnancy the unknown can be particularly overwhelming. Where do you go for help? There are scores of pregnancy books on the market, but it's best to ask your doctor or medical care provider any medical questions you may have. It's also imperative to employ a good physician or midwife that you feel comfortable enough with to ask any question.

If you don't already have an established health care provider it is time to start pronto. Take the time to interview the care provider and make sure you are satisfied with his or her qualifications. It's your responsibility to make sure you ask questions for things you want to know.

With rising cost of malpractice insurance, many doctors, especially OB/GYNs are taking on more patients to help cover their incredibly high insurance costs. This often translates into busy doctors, longer stays in the waiting room, and shorter patient visits. Make sure you have a doctor or midwife who values your concerns and questions. He or she should give you adequate time in answering questions with direct, complete and well-thought out answers that are explained in a way that you understand.

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Member Comments About this Article
"JODYLEE--As my doctor told me, you won't have a CHOICE about eating enough--the baby will demand it. Also, lots of people don't gain any weight during the first trimester due to morning sickness. Just be sure to keep your doctor informed and go to your regular 4-week check-ups. Your doctor will let you know if he/she is concerned about your weight gain and will be able to discuss your options with you." -- SNASH07
"With my first two girls I had a midwife who was wonderful, but she has moved away. I am now pregnant again and started seeing an OBGYN on the recommendation of a friend and have been disappointed. I've been doing my research and hopefully will be switching to a new midwife this week. I'm 17 weeks, and I feel really weird about "jumping ship" mid voyage, but it is so important to get the care that you are comfortable with. I just hoping that I'm making a good choice!" -- ARCOWLES
"I asked my OB/GYN what percentage of her deliveries were via c-section, and she looked me straight in the eye and nonchalantly said she had no idea, THEN, asked me **why I'd want to know**. That was...eye-opening. I switched to a homebirth midwife right after that day. Seriously. I should thank her.

This is a very important question to ask, I couldn't agree more!!!" -- MOMME2008
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About The Author
Karina Downie
Karina is the proud mother of two sons. Her determination to eat right and exercise during pregnancy was the inspiration behind BabyFit.com.
Karina Downie

 


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