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The Weight Of The Nation: A Documentary

April 26, 2012 in Children, Diet, Exercise, Lifestyle Tips with 1 Comment

I recently had the pleasure of attending the screening of an HBO documentary entitled, The Weight Of The Nation.  It’s about the obesity epidemic that our nation is facing today.  It is a realistic representation of a multifaceted problem.

More than two-thirds of U.S. adults age 20 and over are overweight or obese, while nearly one-third of the nation’s children and adolescents age 2 to 19 are overweight or obese.  Obesity contributes to five of the ten leading causes of death in America, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer, and kidney disease.  We are clearly in crisis.

Made in partnership with the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation and Kaiser Permanente, this series is comprised of 4 films that will debut on HBO on May 14th and May 15th beginning at 7:00 pm Central.  The portion presented at the screening was Children In Crisis.  We are facing, for the first time in our nation’s history, a shorter life expectancy for our next generation of children.  That, by itself, should be enough to motivate us to action.

Obesity is a preventable disease; it’s not a condition that we have to accept like a natural disaster.  We must begin to make the necessary changes in our culture to ensure a healthy life for ourselves and our children.  After all, our lives depend on it.

For more information about weight management and weight loss surgery, please give us a call at St. David’s Bariatric Center, 512-544-LIFE (5433) or visit us online at www.stdavidsweightloss.com.

Patients as Lifesavers – Cord Blood Donation with Texas Cord Blood Bank

February 15, 2012 in Baby/Infant, Children, Community, Pregnancy, St. David's HealthCare, Women, Women: Ages & Stages with 2 Comments

The words “cord blood” may not mean very much to you, but for some patients, those two words may mean the difference between life and death.

Right now, you may be asking yourself “what is cord blood?”
Cord blood is blood that is left in the umbilical cord and placenta after the birth of a baby. The umbilical cord and placenta are usually discarded after a baby is born.

This special blood is a rich source of stem cells which can treat a number of illnesses and life threatening diseases.

Now you may be thinking “wait, aren’t stem cells tiny embryo’s?”
The types of stem cells that are found in cord blood are not the same as embryonic stem cells. These stem cells are simply in the blood of the placenta and umbilical cord and are typically disposed of after birth. These cells have proven to be life saving in the face of several diseases and illnesses such as leukemia, lymphoma and disorders of the immune system, just to name a few. This program is not controversial and is supported by many faith based communities because of the difference in the type of stem cell.

St. David’s Medical Center in downtown Austin is the only facility in the city currently offering free cord blood collection and donation. Until now, the only option for cord blood collection was through a private bank that requires a fee for collection and storage. Cord blood that is collected and donated may be used to treat someone who is a match with a life threatening disease such as leukemia, aplastic anemia or genetic blood disorders like sickle cell anemia.

Here’s a snapshot at the process of cord blood donation:

  • Receive information about cord blood collection and donation from your doctor during your prenatal visits.
  • Discuss screening done for all cord blood donors with your doctor. Most healthy moms are able to donate, but there are some common reasons you may not be able to donate such as a twin pregnancy.
  • Decide if participation in this program is right for you and your family.
  • Instead of discarding your umbilical cord and placenta after delivery, your baby’s cord blood will be collected by your physician after the baby is born. This process does not pose a risk to you or your baby, and it not painful to you in any way at all. Once the cord blood is collected, the placenta and umbilical cord are disposed of per Texas law.

The decision to collect and donate cord blood is personal for each and every family. Your options include – storing your cord blood at a private bank, donating and storing your cord blood to a public bank, or discarding the cord blood after delivery. Understanding those options may help you choose whether you would like to be a cord blood donor.

You may never know if someone’s life could be saved by the use of this special blood, but how special is the thought that you may be giving a child a second chance at life or helping a child live a normal, healthy life!

For more information about donating cord blood, please check out Texas Cord Blood Bank’s website at:
http://www.bloodntissue.org.

*All information used with the permission of Texas Cord Blood Bank.

Choosing the best Ob/Gyn for you

February 3, 2012 in Baby/Infant, Children, Lifestyle Tips, Physician, Pregnancy, Women with 0 Comments

(Ver en español)

Guest post by Blanca Duncan, MD

Because the outcome of pregnancy depends on your emotional as well as physical well being, it is important to find a doctor than meets not just your medical needs but also one that you are compatible with. Selecting a doctor to deliver your baby is a very important and personal decision. Following are some steps to help you in choosing the best Obstetrician Gynecologist for you.

Where to begin your search for ob/gyn?
Internet sites that provide basic information on doctors in your area are a good source. Some sites include: healthgrades.com; yelp.com.

Ask around for recommendations. An excellent source of referral is a trustworthy medical professional. Consider asking friends and family members who they see and if they recommend the doctor.

Pregnancy can be financially trying. Make sure the doctor you are considering is in your network of providers. Talk to your insurance. If it is a requirement for your insurance coverage to see someone in your network, you may want to narrow your list to include only physicians in your network.

The doctor’s office as well as the hospital facility where the physician delivers should be included in your decision. You will visit the doctor’s office several times and you may need to get to the hospital quickly. Therefore, the locations should be convenient to your job and home. In addition, you should feel comfortable in both settings. Assess the friendliness of the office staff. Get to know the hospital; ask about availability of tours to the labor and delivery unit.

What to look for in an ob/gyn doctor?
A provider with whom you feel safe and relaxed is key to optimizing your pregnancy and childbirth experience. Below are some things to consider in choosing a doctor.

Doctor’s personality

  • Is the doctor easy to communicate with?
  • Are things explained in a manner that you understand?
  • Do you feel that your concerns are validated and addressed?

Doctor’s practice outlook

Write down any specific concerns about your pregnancy. Find out what the doctor’s outlook is in regards to things that are important for you. For example if you have a specific birth plan such as at home birth or natural birth, find out the doctor’s perspective on this. If you are considering vaginal birth after cesarean section find out if the physician and hospital would be supportive.

Determine if the doctor’s scope of care meets your specific needs

If you have special health needs such as diabetes, heart disease, or very complicated pregnancy history, find out how much experience the doctor has treating these areas. You may want ask if the doctor work in conjunction with a maternal fetal specialist (a doctor that specializes on high risk pregnancy).

Once you have narrowed your choices, you may want to interview a few providers and compare notes until you find the one that you feel is the best choice for you.

Holiday Tips for Expecting Moms!

December 7, 2011 in Baby/Infant, Children, Community, Holiday, Lifestyle Tips, Pregnancy, Women, Women: Ages & Stages with 0 Comments

Here are some helpful holiday tips for expecting Mom’s!

During the holidays we are all participating in many activities that generally bring happiness, but may also cause stress.

If you are pregnant, be sure to listen to your body this holiday season! Here are some tips to take care of yourself and your unwrapped present during this time of year:

  • Make sure you are getting plenty of sleep – you are growing an entire human being, congrats! That is hard work. Make sure to take time out for yourself and rest when you body tells you to.
  • Stay hydrated! During the winter months people generally don’t drink enough water since the temperatures outside are dropping. Water is key to a healthy pregnancy and feeling well. Being dehydrated can lead to fatigue and even uncomfortable contractions. Make sure to keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and take small, frequent sips!
  • Eat smaller meals, but eat often- This is especially important for women who are farther along in pregnancy. As the baby grows, he or she will push on your stomach causing you to feel discomfort if you are eating a large meal. Small snacks throughout the day may help you avoid tummy discomfort and heartburn. We often see women in labor & delivery reporting abdominal pain after eating a Christmas feast! Eating smaller meals can most certainly help avoid this discomfort.

What tips have you received for surviving the holidays while pregnant? Share with us, we would love to hear them!

Happy Holidays-

Meg

FAQ: First Gynecological Visit

October 26, 2011 in Children, Physician, Pregnancy, Women with 0 Comments

by Blanca Duncan, MD

Q: At what age should the first visit to an gynecologist take place?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that the first visit take place between the ages of 13 years and 15 years.

Q: What topics are typically discussed during the initial visit?

Screening and preventive health measurements including educational information and guidance.

Discussion of common health concerns shared by many young women such as:

  • Menstrual cycles: normal and problematic
  • Nutrition and exercise
  • Sex and sexuality
  • Birth control
  • STIs
  • Alcohol, drugs, and smoking
  • Mental health
  • Acne

Q:What exams are performed?

  • General physical exam
  • External genital exam

A pelvic exam is not usually performed at the first visit unless there are problems.

Q: What happens during an external genital exam?

The doctor looks at the vulva, which is the external female genital area. This is a good opportunity to learn about the body and the names for each part.

Q: What are the Pap test and Pelvic exam?

The Pap test checks for abnormal changes in cervix that could lead to cancer. It is recommended at the age of 21 years.

Although a pelvic exam will not likely be needed, the adolescent should understand what one is.

The pelvic exam has three parts:

  1. Looking at the external female genitalia
  2. Using a speculum to look at the vagina and cervix. When a Pap test is performed, a small brush is used to obtain a sample of cells from cervix.
  3. Assessing the internal organs with a gloved hand

Q: How often should visits take place?

Typically visits should occur yearly, or as appropriate depending on arising health issues.

Q: Why is it important for adolescent to visit ob/gyn?

Gives patients and parents the chance to meet the health care provider, alleviate fears, develop trust, and start a physician-patient relationship.

Assists adolescent in negotiating entry into the health care system when she has a specific health need.

To learn more about women’s services at St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center click here

Halloween Safety Tips

September 29, 2011 in Children, Community, Holiday, Lifestyle Tips with 0 Comments

Yes, it’s almost that time of year. Time to go over the Halloween safety basics!

For the Kids…

  • Carry a flashlight
  • Walk, don’t run
  • Stay on sidewalks
  • Obey traffic signals
  • Stay in familiar neighborhoods
  • Don’t cut across yards or driveways
  • Wear a watch you can read in the dark
  • Make sure costumes don’t drag on the ground
  • Shoes should fit (even if they don’t go with your costume)
  • Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house
  • Carry only flexible knives, swords or other props
  • If no sidewalk walk on the left side of the road facing traffic
  • Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape
  • Approach only houses that are lit
  • Do not go inside anyone’s house
  • Do not go alone

For the Parents…

  • Make your child eat dinner before setting out
  • Ideally, young children of any age should be accompanied by an adult
  • If your children go on their own, be sure they wear a watch, preferably one that can be read in the dark
  • If you buy a costume, look for one made of flame- retardant material
  • Older children should know where to reach you and when to be home
  • You should know where they’re going
  • Although tampering is rare, tell children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything
  • Look at the wrapping carefully and toss out anything that looks suspect
Information Provided by:
Trauma Services
2300 Round Rock Ave., Suite 201
Round Rock, Texas 76881
512-341-6612

5 Recommendations for Record Breaking Heat and Pregnant Women

August 22, 2011 in Baby/Infant, Children, Community, Heat Safety, Lifestyle Tips, Outdoors, Women, Women: Ages & Stages with 0 Comments

This week I interviewed one of our new Maternal Fetal Medicine physicians, Dr. Linda Fonseca. Here in central Texas, we all know the heat has been exhausting and it has the opportunity to take an even greater toll on those who are pregnant.

Here are the things we chatted about:

Meg – How does the heat affect women who are pregnant?

Dr. Fonseca – “Pregnant women are more susceptible to dehydration because of the pregnancy and it can lead to serious problems. Heat can exacerbate dehydration from other conditions such as morning sickness or the stomach flu worse. Dehydration during pregnancy can lead to pre-term contractions or pre-term labor which can affect the outcome of the baby.”

Meg – What are the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and also heat stroke?

Dr. Fonseca – Many of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion can be easily disguised as something else. For heat exhaustion, be on the lookout for such things as: headaches, dizziness, cold or clammy skin, thirst, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, dark urine and fatigue. Dr. Fonseca states that the signs and symptoms for heat stroke are much more severe and life threatening including: mental confusion or lethargy (an abnormal state of drowsiness), core body temperature of 104 degrees, seizures and lack of perspiration.

Meg – What can a patient do to decrease the risk of heat exhaustion?

Dr. Fonseca – “During these days of high temperatures, make sure to stay indoors as much as possible”. Dr. Fonseca encourages women to run errands in the early morning hours when it is still cool outside as opposed to the middle of the day when temperatures are the highest. She also recommends staying hydrated – “carry around a water bottle and take several sips throughout your day even if you are not thirsty”. Dr. Fonseca would like to remind women that they should increase their water intake if they are doing anything outdoors and to stay away from caffeinated drinks like soda or tea that can increase dehydration. “Caffeine is a diuretic which can cause your body to dehydrate much more quickly.” She also recommends wearing light clothing when doing anything outdoors and try to stay in the shade as much as possible.

Meg- What is an adequate water intake to prevent dehydration? Many women feel like 8-10 glasses of water per day are hard to achieve because they feel very full.

Dr. Fonseca – “The goal is still 8-10 glasses per day especially in these high temperatures.” Dr. Fonseca encourages women to take small sips of water throughout the day to prevent those uncomfortable “full” feelings that accompany the growing fetus. The plastic water bottles most people are familiar with are approximately 16oz so a person would need 4-5 bottles of water per day to meet the water requirement.

Meg – Any special foods or drinks you recommend to ward off dehydration or electrolyte imbalance?

Dr. Fonseca – “I generally encourage my patients to eat fresh fruit (instead of dried fruit), especially in the summer that is high in water such as peaches, watermelon, or cantaloupe.” Dr. Fonseca tells her patients to stay away from caffeine and sugary drinks that may rob your body of water. She encourages them to drink water and supplement with electrolyte enhanced liquids such as Gatorade, vitamin water or pedialyte.

Always an advocate for sunscreen, she reminds patients to make sure they are wearing an SPF in the summer wherever their skin will see light, but especially on their face. “During pregnancy there is an increase in melanin which can increase the chance of chloasma during pregnancy. Chloasma is hyper pigmentation caused by an increase of hormones while you are pregnant. Make sure to wear an SPF daily when leaving the house.

-Has anyone out there had a baby during these summer months? What advice do you have for our moms to be?!

Stay cool-
Meg

Back to Sleep :: 7 Recommendations to Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

August 2, 2011 in Children, Lifestyle Tips, Women, Women: Ages & Stages with 0 Comments

We’ve all heard the scenario – a new mother brings her baby home from the hospital and the family members start pouring in – along with their unsolicited advice.

Whether it’s good advice or bad advice, it’s something that every mother seems to go through. This story though takes the cake.

My friend, who recently had her first baby, was telling me about her family coming to visit during the first few weeks after the birth of her son. A close family member asked the new mother how she wanted him to be laid down in the crib. “On his back, that is what the pediatrician and my obstetrician told me was the best” my friend urgently sputtered out.

After about 10 minutes the family member proceeded to say “by the way, I put him on his stomach; I think he will sleep better that way.”

My friend frantically flew into her newborn sons’ room, picked him up and flipped him over to his back, knowing that babies should be put ‘back to sleep’. She explained to the less then helpful family member that studies show the overall rate of SIDS has decreased by almost 50% since the campaign started.

That number speaks volumes.

You have heard of this, right? Putting your baby ‘back to sleep’ – it’s a way to help parents remember to put their baby on their back when they lay them down to sleep.

In 1994 the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) started this campaign to help educate parents and people caring for infants to reduce the risk of SIDS.

This little gem of information may be something s younger generations of mothers know since it has been nationally promoted for the past 17 years. Make sure you share this information with Aunts, Grandma’s, and Cousins – anyone who might have a child over the age of 17 and may be caring your child at some point.

Before that time, that information somewhat floundered. My own mother told me that when she had all 3 of her children, the advice was never the same. For one baby it was recommended to put the baby on their tummy to sleep, the next it was recommended to put the baby on their back to sleep and so forth.

Here is what the NICHD Back to Sleep Campaign recommends:

  • Always place your baby on his or her back to sleep, even for naps
  • Place your baby on a firm mattress, such as in an approved safety crib
  • Remove soft, fluffy bedding and stuffed toys from your baby’s sleep area
  • Make sure your baby’s head and face remain uncovered during sleep
  • Do not allow smoking around your baby
  • Do not let your baby get too warm during sleep
  • Talk to childcare providers, grandparents, babysitters and all caregivers about SIDS risk

Make sure to talk with everyone that may be caring for your baby about the Back to Sleep Campaign. You can even order fun magnets with the information on it as a helpful reminder.

~ Meg

5 Questions about Primary Prevention and Women’s Health

July 22, 2011 in Children, Women, Women: Ages & Stages with 0 Comments

This week, I interviewed one of our fantastic OB/GYN’s Dr. Clive Polon regarding primary prevention and women’s health.

So here you go, an interview with Dr. Polon~

_____

Dr. Polon
Meg- So much is changing in women’s health, what is your best advice for young women of childbearing age who desire to be healthy but are not looking to have a baby right now?

Polon- “I don’t feel like paps (pap smears) annually are necessary, unless you are sexually active. If you are sexually active within one year you need a pap.” Dr. Polon states that the results of the pap are what determine the course of care after that. “If the pap results are abnormal I usually repeat the pap in 6 months to a year.” Dr. Polon also states that he does encourage women to come in for an annual exam to discuss all health issues like nutrition, STD testing, breast health, and sexual health.

Meg- How common is it for you to see someone with an abnormal pap? What is your recommended course of care?

Polon- “Very, very common; probably about 30% of my patients have abnormal paps.” Dr. Polon states that the course of care depends largely on the age of the patient as well as the pap results. Dr. Polon reports that he would generally repeat a pap within 6-12 months for younger women depending on the pap since approximately 85% spontaneously resolve in 1-2 years. For an older woman with positive HPV he would want to repeat the pap more frequently, and possibly explore other procedures with the patient if needed, like a colposcopy.

Meg- If you could tell a woman your top reasons they need to establish care with an OB/GYN, even if they are not looking to become pregnant right now, what would they be?

Polon- “Your OB/GYN is going to know the most updated literature and recommendations put out by ACOG (American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists).” Dr. Polon also said that the importance of a young woman forming a relationship with a care provider is critical. “I think that women need someone they can confide in and tell that person everything that is going on with them and their health. It’s best to develop that relationship now, as soon as possible.”

Meg-

Baby-Friendly : St. David’s Medical Center

July 12, 2011 in Baby/Infant, Children, Community, Pregnancy, Women, Women: Ages & Stages with 0 Comments


You are officially invited on the baby friendly tour! St. David’s Medical Center downtown is embarking on a journey to become a designated “Baby-Friendly” hospital and we would like you to come along, watch our progress and cheer us on.

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global program which is sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to encourage & recognize hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for infant feeding (babyfriendlyusa.org).

St. David’s Medical Center nurses have been reading, watching, learning and shadowing breastfeeding experts to be able to assist you in your endeavors to successfully breastfeed.

Did you know that recent studies show that women who breastfeed enjoy decreased risks of breast and ovarian cancer, anemia, and osteoporosis? (babyfriendlyusa.org)

We can’t wait to share with you all the great things we have learned.

Check out Commitment to Breastfeeding below!

-Meg

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