Pregnancy comes with a lot of changes — and a lot of doctor appointments. While it might feel like one more thing on your to-do list, prenatal checkups are important for the health of you and your baby. At each check-up, your doctor assesses your health, how your baby is growing and can offer tips to ensure your pregnancy is as […]
Tips & Advice
Healthy preconception diet: Foods to enjoy — and avoid — before pregnancy
One of the best ways to support a healthy pregnancy begins even before you see that positive result on a pregnancy test. “Many women don’t know they’re pregnant until several weeks after conception,” said Michael Krew, MD, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Akron Children’s. “But during that time, your baby’s vital organs are rapidly developing, so making sure you have the right nutrients in your system gives your baby […]
Planning for baby? Here’s why a pre-pregnancy checkup matters
Thinking about having a baby? Before you start tracking ovulation apps or stocking up on prenatal vitamins, there’s one step that often gets skipped: a pre-pregnancy checkup. Think of it as a routine physical but tailored specifically for conception. It gives you and your doctor the chance to identify any potential risks early and create a plan for a healthy pregnancy. “It’s important to prepare your […]
Infant massage for babies: Benefits for sleep, bonding and development
Welcoming a new baby is exciting – but it can also feel overwhelming, especially if your baby needs medical care or extra support. For parents of hospitalized or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) babies, finding simple ways to comfort and connect with your child can feel especially important. Infant massage is a simple, effective way to […]
Navigating pregnancy after a miscarriage: What moms should know
Losing a pregnancy is deeply painful. And when you think about trying again, it’s normal to feel a mix of hope, fear and uncertainty. The good news is – you’re not alone, and there are ways to prepare both your body and your mind for another pregnancy. Miscarriage is common – and not your fault […]
Doctor shares insight on having siblings with a rare disease
When a child has a rare disease, it affects the whole family. Dr. Dawn-Marie Gotkiewicz, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Urgent Care, knows what it’s like. She lost both of her younger brothers, Kenny and Kevin, to a rare genetic disorder called Hunter syndrome. Becoming a big sister “Kenny arrived when I was 2 and a […]
