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Smoking is bad for anyone, pregnant or not. However, if you smoke, you should quit once you become pregnant or find out you are pregnant.
There is no "safe" level of smoking during pregnancy. Cigarettes contain nicotine, carbon monoxide, and other toxins that affect your and your baby's health when inhaled. When you smoke during pregnancy, you:
Secondhand smoking happens when you inhale smoke from a burning cigarette and smoke exhaled by a smoker. Secondhand smoking, also known as passive smoking, is more harmful than smoking itself. The reason is that the smoke from the end of the cigarette or exhaled by the smoker contains more harmful poisons than the smoke inhaled by the smoker.
If you are exposed to secondhand smoke, you and your baby are at risk of health complications before, during, and after your baby is born. These include low birth weight, stillbirth, congenital disabilities, respiratory problems, allergies, ear infections, and many others.
When pregnant and after childbirth, don't let anyone smoke in your house, car, or anywhere around you. Also, avoid going to places where people smoke.
If you are finding it hard to quit smoking, you can talk to us at My Virtual Physician or your health care provider. We will provide information about smoking cessation programs that can help you.
You may also want to put the following measures in place:
Nicotine is the addictive substance in cigarettes that your body gets used to. When you quit smoking, you may manifest withdrawal symptoms. These include:
Withdrawal symptoms are often transient. They are strongest during the first week after quitting and go away within two weeks. It may, however, last for a month or a few more for some people.
Dealing with withdrawal symptoms requires discipline, and you can get all the support you need. You can try the following to help you:
You may experience frequent urges to smoke even after quitting, and the withdrawal symptoms disappear. Don't give in to the cravings. They are short-lived and will go away on their own.
If you relapse into smoking after quitting, don't lose hope. Quit again.
A visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. Your virtual physician can help to electronically order prenatal care labs and/or send an order to the nearest radiology facility for you to get an ultrasound.
At My Virtual Physician, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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One of the exciting moments expecting mothers look forward to is when their baby starts kicking. These baby kicks help moms bond with the life growing inside them and track the growth of their babies.
Usually, you should feel the first fetal movement, also known as quickening, around weeks 18 to 22. Depending on your pregnancy, it may be sooner or later than that. You may feel them as late as the twenty-sixth week if it's your first pregnancy. In subsequent pregnancies, you may feel them as early as the thirteenth to fourteenth week.
How and when you feel your baby's first movements depends on different factors. These include may include your weight, position of the placenta, etc.
Different women feel their baby's movements differently. Pregnant women have described their baby's kicks as a flutter, a nudge, a twitch, a tumbling motion or roll, gas bubbles, a tickle, hunger pangs, or waves.
As the baby grows, the movements become stronger and can feel like a punch, jab, or kick, especially in the 6th and 7th months of pregnancy.
Towards the middle and end of the third trimester, you may feel your baby turning and wiggling.
In your first trimester, you may feel movements, especially flutters, occasionally. However, you should feel more rhythmic, frequent, and stronger movements towards the end of the second trimester. By the third trimester, you can feel your baby move about 30 times or more in an hour.
Babies can also be active at certain times. This doesn't necessarily mean you have a super active baby. You may feel your baby kicks more when you are nervous, are about to go to bed, have just eaten, or when it has hiccups. Your baby can also respond to sound or touch.
Yes, you should. Usually, a baby's movements are well established early in the third trimester. By week 26 to 28, you can start a fetal movement counting or fetal movement assessment. This means keeping track of your baby's kicks, punches, and jabs. Obstetricians often recommend this to know if your baby is still growing as it should.
If you are pregnant with twins or more babies, doing a fetal movement count may be difficult. You may get confused as to which baby is moving.
Keep in mind that there are times your baby might be calm and not move so much. Don't be worried. To keep track of your baby's movements, pick a time your baby is most active, get into a comfortable position, and count how long it takes to make ten movements. Usually, you should count at least ten movements in 2 hours. Chart your measurements each time.
If your baby is not moving as often as they should, or you can't feel ten movements in 2 hours despite a trigger such as eating a snack, contact your doctor or health care provider.
You may not be able to distinguish your baby's movements in time. So, if you haven't reached week 25 and you do not feel your baby move or cannot describe what you are feeling, don't be worried.
Also, some babies move less frequently than others, and some only get active when something makes them. There are times they may be asleep or have lesser room to move around, especially towards the end of your pregnancy.
However, if you notice that your baby's movements have significantly reduced or you do not feel at least ten movements in 2 hours, call your doctor.
A visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. Do you have questions about your baby's movements? Do they seem too much, or have they significantly reduced? At My Virtual Physician, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
We are in network with many insurance health plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
Book Appointment Now Call For An Appointment
This past year tested many young businesses. Telemedicine is not new. But the My Virtual Physician (MVP) business model is. The virtual doctor practice offers the best in online doctor services as a direct-to-consumer multi-specialty provider licensed in multiple states. Regardless of 2020's challenges, the MVP virtual doctor team didn't slow down. They focused on their path to becoming the #1 online doctor and forged ahead.
Over the last 12 months, MVP worked hard to bring high-quality medical care into homes in 15 states. They now offer online pediatric, gynecologic, and primary healthcare services for patients of all ages. Plus, they provide same-day scheduling for online physician appointments, some in-network insurance benefits, and five-star customer service.
As the #1 online healthcare provider, MVP doctors get to know their patients. Quality care is emphasized, and they aim to provide the best patient satisfaction in telemedicine. Here’s what patients are saying about MVP's online doctors:
“I would give My Virtual Physician more stars if I could”
“Dr. Howard has the best personality and is very friendly.”
“The future of medical visits; what better way to social distance.”
“A+ would recommend to everyone.”
Since their launch, MVP has opened new offices and added service lines such as nutrition and diabetic care. The practice has partnered with more online doctors and added office staff. Just this Spring, MVP enhanced their patient portal for self-scheduling, and integrated a program to trend patient reviews.
This one year anniversary milestone is cause for celebration. It is exciting, and this is only the beginning. Despite any challenges that lie ahead for this medical practice, their progress shows that the future is very bright for My Virtual Physician.
Congratulations to Dr. Howard, Dr. Masghati, Dr. Ayyagari, and all of the My Virtual Physician Staff.
Meet Dr. Aravinda Ayyagari! We are ecstatic she has joined our My Virtual Physician practice.
She is a board-certified pediatrician with almost 20 years of experience. She serves on several hospital committees and enjoys volunteering her time in different settings ranging from the local school to the board of Easter Seals, and even traveling to El Paso, TX as a volunteer physician at a migrant center. She also serves as the state of Delaware CATCH grant coordinator to increase children’s access to healthcare services.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, exercising, and spending time with friends. She loves hiking with her husband and two children in various destinations both domestically and internationally - covering Asia to South America. As a family, they have been amazed at how people are much more alike than different. They are looking forward to their next adventure!
Dr. Ayyagari speaks Spanish and some Telugu. She enjoys caring for patients of different cultural backgrounds.
Most recently, she started Bridge Care Pediatrics, a direct primary care which provides all pediatric and newborn housecalls. www.bridgecarepeds.com
Stefanie:
Welcome, everyone! Thank you for joining us today.
My name is Stefanie and I'm part of the team here at MyVirtualPhysician. We are a direct to consumer, multi-specialty, telemedicine provider operating in multiple states.
It is Talk Tuesday and we are back with our weekly educational series, talking with our experts, exploring some common healthcare concerns that we see, and hopefully answering some questions you may have.
Today our physician expert is Dr. Daniel Kessler and one of our telemedicine providers. We are talking about coping with anxiety during the holidays.
Stefanie:
Well the holiday season is upon us and I know that this year has been challenging for many, so some people are already stressed or anxious and not looking forward to the holidays. Is it normal to have anxiety during this time?
Dr. Daniel Kessler:
It can be common to have feelings of anxiety during this time.
The Oxford dictionary defines anxiety as feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an event or something with an uncertain outcome that may be coming. These can be normal and natural. Many people have these feelings from time to time. During the holidays, Americans may feel financial strain as it can be a season of shopping and gift-giving. They may have to come together with family members that they don’t often see or grieve separation from loved ones and relationships can be challenging or cause anxiety and worry. Many adults have unrealistic expectations for the holiday and that can create anxiety. And already busy schedules can feel the burden of holiday events and activities that can make you even more busy, anxious, or restless.
Stefanie:
That makes sense, the holidays can definitely cause anxiety, the worry, nervousness, or unease. So when is anxiety abnormal, or when is it a problem?
Dr. Kessler:
In some cases, those thoughts or feelings become intense and excessive, or individuals may become focused on common everyday events or situations that generally should not produce those feelings or at one time did not make the person feel that way. This type of anxiety usually causes physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heartbeat, or even weakness and feeling tired all the time.
This second more extreme sense of anxiety may be out of the norm, and may require evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Stefanie:
Are there other symptoms, other than the intense feelings you mentioned, that someone could look for or identify as signs that they should get help, or someone they know or care about should see a physician?
Dr. Kessler:
Symptoms of an anxiety disorder can vary from person to person so if someone is concerned they should talk to their doctor.
But some other signs or symptoms could include:
Stefanie:
So Dr. Kessler, these may be reasons to talk to your doctor about your anxiety. But for our listeners who may experience some mild feelings of stress or worry around the holidays, and maybe they are reluctant to talk to anyone about them yet, can you tell us about coping with anxiety, and specifically for coping with anxiety during the holidays?
Dr. Kessler:
Sure, There are definitely some steps you can take to manage mild anxiety.
Probably the most important thing is self care and self awareness. Many people overlook taking care of themselves during this season, which is often about giving to others. But you have to be aware of how you’re feeling, and take care of your mental and physical health during this time.
So here are 6 things that we can all do, to try to stay healthy and happy this holiday and keep anxiety at bay.
Number 1 - Adequate hydration
Don’t forget to drink 8-10 glasses of water each day. When you are dehydrated, you won’t feel your best. Also keep in mind drinks like coffee and alcohol may contribute to anxiety so it can be helpful to limit or cut out caffeine and alcohol for a time.
Number 2 - Good nutrition
Stress can cause changes in your metabolism, or how you burn energy. Skipping meals leads to spikes and drops in blood sugar that can wreak havoc on your system. It is important to eat regularly and maximize your nutrient intake with healthy foods. Taking a multivitamin won’t hurt either.
Number 3 - Get enough sleep
National Sleep Foundation guidelines say that the average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep. Staying up late at holiday parties and getting up early to wrap presents can be detrimental to your health. Practice good sleep hygiene by setting a bedtime and sticking to it when you can.
Number 4 - Exercise
Studies show that physical activity is excellent for mental health. If you find yourself anxious or worried take a walk or a jog, practice yoga, whatever physical activity that you find enjoyable.
Number 5 - Stay connected to others
Social isolation can be a symptom of anxiety and may also trigger it. During the holiday season, make it a point to stay connected to family and friends. Communicate by phone or in person when possible. When separated from loved ones, look for settings where you can volunteer. Many charities offer opportunities to serve. Being with others can suppress feelings of anxiety or depression. It is helpful to share feelings with others and reach out when you can.
Number 6 - Be intentional with your schedule
Set boundaries with your time, and don’t feel about declining invitations if they cause stress, anxiety, or depression. Limit events that cause excessive worry. You want to be connected, but you also want to be selective in some way, and make the best of your holiday season. It can also be helpful to stick to your normal routine. Change can cause stress so just be aware of that.
Stefanie:
Thank you Dr. Kessler, you have given us some great tips for coping with anxiety during the holidays.
I appreciate you joining us for Talk Tuesday and telling us what we need to know about anxiety. For everyone else joining us as well, this has been Talk Tuesday with MyVirtualPhysician. If you would like to talk with one of our board-certified physicians about your health concerns, you can check out our website at www.myvirtualphysician.com. We look forward to talking with you again, and we hope you have a great week.
Much mistle-toeing and hearts will be glowing. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, right? For some, the holiday season brings to mind financial strain, complicated relationships, stressful schedules. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season cause worry for many. Coping with anxiety during the holidays can be a challenge.
Coping with anxiety during the holidays is essential to your mental and physical health. It is necessary to know how to cope with anxiety and depression and recognize when support or help may be needed to manage.
Here’s what you need to know.
The holiday season is upon us. It can be common and normal to have feelings of anxiety during this time. Financial pressures, excessive commitments, and unrealistic expectations can trigger stress, anxiety, or depression.
For some, the holidays are a time of memories, some good or some unpleasant. For those separated from loved ones, it can be a time of sadness or grieving. Many experience feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Furthermore, during the winter months, the days are shorter and less sunlight can cause seasonal mood changes.
Anxiety is defined as feeling worried or nervous that something terrible is going to happen. Many people have these feelings from time to time.
During the holidays, Americans may feel the financial strain as it can be a season of shopping and gift-giving. They may have to come together with family members who they don’t often see or grieve separation from loved ones, and relationships can be challenging or cause anxiety and worry.
Furthermore, many adults have unrealistic expectations for the holidays, and that can create anxiety. And already busy schedules can feel the burden of holiday events and activities that can make you even more busy, anxious, or restless.
In some cases, anxious thoughts or feelings can become intense and excessive.
Individuals may become overly focused on common everyday events or situations that should not produce fear or worry, or at one time did not make the person feel that way. This type of anxiety usually causes physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heartbeat, or even weakness and feeling tired all the time.
Signs and symptoms of an anxiety disorder could include:
This second more extreme anxiety may be out of the norm, and may require a healthcare professional evaluation.
Many people overlook self-awareness and self-care during this season that is often about giving to others. But don’t forget, it’s hard to pour from an empty cup. You must take care of your mental and physical health to give others your time, effort, and resources.
When unpleasant feelings of worry or restlessness seem magnified or more frequent, here are some things you should be doing to make sure you can effectively cope with anxiety during the holidays:
If you have tried these tips above and don’t feel any relief, or if you battle with intense anxiety that interferes with your daily life, it may be time to ask for help.
A primary care physician can talk to you about your anxiety or may recommend further treatment.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental or substance use disorders.
If you would like more information on anxiety or want to talk about your symptoms with one of our board-certified physicians, click to schedule an appointment. If you have any suggestions for additional topics you want to read about, let us know! Don’t forget to check out our weekly education series Talk Tuesday on our podcast page, and follow us on social media.
