Birth Journal of Nursing

The Preconception Blueprint: What Women Need to Know Before Trying to Conceive

The Preconception Blueprint: What Women Need to Know Before Trying to Conceive

Tags: birth headache health care mother stress

The journey of motherhood begins long before pregnancy is confirmed, with preconception health playing a pivotal role in both maternal and fetal well-being. The preconception period is technically defined as the three months prior to conception, because that is typically the amount of time it takes for a fertile couple to conceive (Stephenson et al.). This paper explores the essential components of preconception planning including nutritional considerations, lifestyle modifications, environmental factors, and psychological readiness. Nutritional health is critical, as deficiencies in the body can negatively affect fertility and fetal development. Certain lifestyle choices such as being physically active and refraining from smoking plays a large part in enhancing reproductive health. In addition, environmental toxins and pollutants must be assessed to minimize risks during conception and pregnancy. Furthermore, psychological readiness is vital for coping with the challenges of pregnancy and parenting. All in all, a comprehensive understanding of preconception health can empower women to make informed decisions and enhance their journey through pregnancy.

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Amongst the Angels

Amongst the Angels

Tags: birth end of life infants pathology

Most women enter the hospital and leave with wonderful pictures and memories.  Their infant bundled tightly in their arms and their vehicles await them to whisk them away to the sleepless nights as the parent of an infant which all too soon turn into the sleepless nights of the parent of a teenager.  But there are those few mothers who are wheeled to their vehicles whose arms are empty and whose infant spirits reside in the arms of the angels and whose bodies rest in Pathology awaiting their final destination.  It is my job to receive these infants and let them rest until they are transported.  I work amongst the angels.

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One Day, One Shift, One Year

One Day, One Shift, One Year

Tags: birth delivering a baby emergency department Emergency nurse ER restroom

Nurse's experience of delivering a baby in the restroom of an ED.

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