Wild vs Wi-Fi: Why Your Child Needs the Wild More Than Wi-Fi
In a world full of screens and schedules, our children are losing something vital: the freedom to roam, to explore, to just be kids. Outdoor play isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. It calms their minds, strengthens their bodies, and reminds them what real joy feels like. Let’s give them back their childhood. Let them roam.
Mother Tongues: Am I Giving My Children a Gift—or a Burden?
Is raising my children to speak multiple languages a gift—or a burden? As a multilingual mother, I reflect on identity, unity, and the deeper meaning of language, inspired by a conversation with my father and the enduring lessons of the Tower of Babel.
Measles: A Rash Reminder from the Past (and Why It Still Matters Today)
It starts innocently enough—a runny nose, a mild fever, maybe a cough. Then comes the rash, spreading like a polka-dotted rebellion across the skin. Measles might sound like a relic of the past, but it’s back—and it’s not playing around.
From royal survivors like Queen Elizabeth I to heartbreaking 1950s summer outbreaks, measles has left its mark on history. Today, it’s making headlines again—largely due to vaccine hesitancy and global travel. For pregnant women especially, the stakes are high. And for all of us, the lesson is clear: immunity isn’t just personal—it’s public.
Graduation Season: The Bittersweet Beauty of Letting Go
Every step our children take forward is a sign we’ve done our job well. Letting go isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of everything we prepared them for.
“What About Me, Mama?” — The Question Every Big Sibling Is Too Afraid to Ask
“I wanted to teach my child how to welcome their new sibling with love—not just tolerate them. But I also needed to remind them, in the quiet spaces between the pages, that my love for them hadn’t changed. This book gave us both the words and the warmth to navigate that tender in-between.”
When Smoke Rises: What the New Pope Reminded Me in Rural Montana
When Pope Leo XIV—an American from Chicago—was elected, white smoke rose over Rome. But here in Montana, leadership looks different: calloused hands, early mornings, oil rigs, birth rooms, and quiet choices that ripple far. This reflection draws powerful lessons from the conclave to the countryside, reminding us that leadership isn’t about robes—it’s about showing up.
Seeding, Calving, and Catching Babies: Why Medicine in Montana Follows the Rhythm of the Land
This time of year in Montana, everything is being born—calves, lambs, wheat fields, and babies. As an OB/GYN in Sidney, I’ve come to see how medicine and agriculture follow the same quiet rhythm. Whether it’s a laboring mother or a rancher up before dawn, care is constant, humble, and rooted in the land. In this piece, I reflect on what rural life teaches us about timing, presence, and the beauty of showing up.
🍼 Beneath the Glitter: Scandalous Birth Facts You Won’t Believe (Even as a Doctor, I’m Shook)
Childbirth isn’t just messy and miraculous — it’s also full of mystery, myth, and more than a few scandals. From queens giving birth in front of entire courts to ancient surgeons performing C-sections centuries before Europe dared try, the history of birth is wilder than most people realize.
As an OB/GYN, I thought I’d seen it all — until I started digging into the jaw-dropping, taboo-busting, truth-is-stranger-than-fiction world of birth legends, medical marvels, and baby-related chaos.
These aren’t just stories. They’re reminders that birth has always been sacred… and a little bit scandalous.
Cholestasis of Pregnancy: What Every Expecting Mom Should Know
Cholestasis of pregnancy can feel overwhelming — the relentless itching, the worry, the unknowns. But knowing what you’re facing is a powerful first step. Cholestasis is not your fault, and with early diagnosis, close care, and the right treatment, most women go on to have safe deliveries and healthy babies. You are not alone in this journey. Every test, every extra appointment, every moment of listening to your body is an act of fierce love for your baby. Hope lives here — in the strength of a mother’s heart and the support of a team walking this path with you.
Endometriosis: What Every Woman Should Know
Endometriosis—You are Not Alone!
If you’re battling painful periods, unexplained pelvic pain, or struggling to conceive, you’re not imagining it—and you’re not alone. Endometriosis affects millions of women, silently weaving itself into everyday life with symptoms that are too often dismissed or misunderstood. It happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows where it doesn’t belong, causing swelling, scarring, and sometimes heartbreak. But there is hope. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can find relief, reclaim your body, and move forward with strength. You deserve answers. You deserve support. And most of all—you deserve to feel better.
Consistency Over Heroics: Why Showing Up (Again and Again) Still Wins the Game
You don’t need to be extraordinary every day.
Whether in medicine, motherhood, or marriage—what matters most is showing up. Consistency isn’t flashy, but it’s what builds trust, health, and lasting change. Excellence is beautiful, but consistency? That’s powerful.
When We Lose One of Our Own: A Reflection on Grief, Love, and the Fragility of Life
There are moments in medicine that take your breath away—not in awe, but in sorrow. As an OB/GYN, I have the sacred privilege of welcoming new life into the world. I witness joy, transformation, and the beginning of stories yet to unfold. But sometimes, heartbreak finds its way into those stories. And when it does, […]
Understanding the Role of Your OB/GYN in Newborn Care
“Good care is never one-size-fits-all. It’s about making the right decisions at the right time — with compassion, expertise, and respect for each mother’s unique journey. When taken out of context, those decisions can be misunderstood. But in the moment, they are made with your safety and well-being at heart.”
Screening vs. Diagnostic Tests in Pregnancy: What’s the Difference?
Screening tests estimate risk. Diagnostic tests provide answers. Both play important roles in prenatal care — and your care team will guide you through each step with clarity and compassion.
Understanding Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): What Expectant Mothers Need to Know
CVS is an early diagnostic test that offers important genetic insights when medically indicated. While not routine, it’s thoughtfully offered in certain pregnancies to help guide informed care and support.
Understanding Amniocentesis: What Every Expectant Mother Should Know
Amniocentesis is not routine, but when needed, it offers valuable insight into your baby’s health. It’s a carefully performed, evidence-based procedure used in specific situations — always with your safety and your baby’s well-being at the center of every decision.
📌 When “Hate” Is Really About Love: Why You Shouldn’t Take Things Personally
We often take criticism, rejection, or negativity personally, believing it reflects something about us. But the truth? It’s usually not about you at all.
People project their own fears, insecurities, and struggles onto others—sometimes without even realizing it. They bond over shared dislikes because negativity feels safer than vulnerability. Instead of saying “I appreciate you,” they say “Can you believe what so-and-so did?”
Next time you feel judged or excluded, remember: you are not the problem—you’re just part of someone else’s way of coping. The key to peace? Stop taking things personally. It was never really about you.
Pregnancy from His Perspective: What Expecting Dads Wish They Knew (But Never Ask)
📖 Pregnancy from His Perspective: What Expecting Dads Wish They Knew (But Never Ask)
Pregnancy is exciting, emotional… and utterly confusing for dads-to-be. While moms instinctively track every milestone, dads often find themselves Googling things in secret, nodding as if they understand, and hoping they don’t say the wrong thing.
🔍 Top Questions Expecting Dads Secretly Google:
❓ “What actually happens during labor?”
❓ “How much does a baby really cost?”
❓ “What is effacement, and should I be concerned?”
❓ “How to assemble a crib without losing my sanity?”
The truth? Most men want to be helpful but may not always know how. That’s where humor (and a little guidance) come in!
💡 Want to give your partner a fun, stress-free way to learn? My new book, What Every Man Knows About Pregnancy, is the perfect baby shower gift for expecting dads—packed with humor, blank pages, and the ultimate inside joke about fatherhood.
📌 Grab your copy on Amazon today!
Fear Less, Live More: Embracing Life with Boldness
Life isn’t meant to be tiptoed through. Stop waiting for the perfect moment—boldly step into the life you want, right now. Fear less, live more, and embrace the unknown with confidence.🚀
The Ultimate Hospital Checklist for Dad-to-Be: Be Ready for the Big Day
Becoming a dad is one of life’s greatest transformations. When the big day arrives, being prepared isn’t just about packing a bag—it’s about showing up, supporting your partner, and stepping into fatherhood with confidence.
This Hospital Checklist for Dad-to-Be ensures you have everything you need, from essentials for mom and baby to must-have items for yourself. Plus, discover resources like Fatherhood Codex: A Journal for New and Expecting Fathers to document your journey and The Fatherhood Codex: Essential Tips for Expecting Fathers to help you navigate pregnancy and beyond.
💡 Download the checklist, pack your bag, and embrace the journey ahead. Fatherhood starts now. 🚀
The Fatherhood Codex: Essential Tips for Expecting Fathers
Fatherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
From the moment you find out you’re expecting, everything changes. Your role is more important than you may realize, and The Fatherhood Codex is here to guide you through it.
This book will help you understand pregnancy, support your partner in meaningful ways, and prepare for fatherhood with confidence. You don’t need all the answers—just a willingness to show up, learn, and grow.
Step into fatherhood with confidence. Your journey starts today.
Circumcision for Babies: The Lowdown on Snipping and Snuggles
Circumcision is a surgical procedure where the foreskin, the skin covering the tip of the penis, is removed. It is often done for newborn boys within the first few days of life, but the choice to circumcise can vary based on cultural, religious, or personal preferences.
Let’ s delve into this.
Inauguration day is tomorrow!!
Inauguration day is tomorrow – scoop in the field of ObGyn
5 Simple Tips to Ease Morning Sickness Naturally
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but for many moms-to-be, morning sickness can cast a shadow over those first few months. Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP) are incredibly common, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence! Here are five easy, natural ways to ease nausea and feel more like yourself:
5 Delicious and Nutritious Meals for Pre-Delivery Meal Prep
Welcoming a new baby is a joyful time, but it often leaves little room for daily meal preparation. Prepping and freezing meals before delivery is one of the most thoughtful gifts you (or your family) can give yourself during this busy season. It ensures you have healthy, nutritious food on hand to fuel your body—especially important if you’re breastfeeding, as your body will need extra nutrients to support milk production and postpartum recovery. Here are 5 delicious, freezer-friendly meals that are nutrient-dense, easy to prepare, and designed to support a healthy postpartum diet.
Headaches During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Headaches During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Headaches are a common annoyance for many women, but during pregnancy, they can take on a whole new meaning. Did you know that 60% of women under age 40 report experiencing headaches each year? If you’re expecting, you might wonder if your headache is just a normal part of pregnancy or a sign of something more serious.
While hormonal shifts, dehydration, and stress are common culprits, some headaches—like those associated with preeclampsia—require urgent attention. Knowing the difference is key. The good news? Most pregnancy headaches can be managed with simple lifestyle changes and safe medications.
So, if you’re dealing with that all-too-familiar pounding, don’t panic—hydrate, rest, and read on to learn how to feel better fast!
Labor Your Way: Embracing the Miracle of Life
Your Body: A Temple of Life
Your body is more than just a vessel—it is a sacred temple, carrying the precious gift of life. During labor, it is essential to honor and listen to what your body needs. Whether that means moving, resting, or simply breathing deeply, trust in your instincts. Every contraction is a step closer to meeting your baby, and every moment of labor is a testament to your incredible strength.
When we treat our bodies with the respect and care they deserve, we create a space of love and empowerment, not just for ourselves but for the new life we are bringing into the world. Trust yourself, honor your journey, and embrace the miracle of childbirth.
The Epidural: Your Best Friend (or Not) During Labor
Epidural 101: What You Need to Know
Childbirth is a beautiful and intense journey, and for many, the epidural is a key topic of discussion. This popular pain-relief option provides effective anesthesia for labor and delivery, allowing you to stay awake and alert while managing contractions. Administered through a catheter in your lower back, it offers a mix of local anesthetics and opioids to block pain while preserving some sensation.
While epidurals provide significant relief, they come with pros and cons, including potential side effects like itching or reduced mobility. Timing and communication with your care team are crucial for the best results. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to labor; whether you go for the epidural or opt for another path, your experience should be informed and empowering. You’ve got this!
“Why Does Labor Hurt?” Understanding the Pain and Finding Relief
“Why Does Labor Hurt? Understanding the Pain and Finding Relief”
Labor pain is a natural part of childbirth caused by powerful uterine contractions, cervical stretching, and pressure as your baby makes their way into the world. While some trace the origins of labor pain to a biblical curse, science points to physiological changes like lactic acid buildup and nerve compression. Techniques like breathing exercises, movement, and hydrotherapy can help manage this pain, making the journey to meeting your baby more manageable. And with innovations like wearable pain-relief devices on the horizon, the future of natural pain management looks promising!
Hypnobirthing: Finding Your Calm in the Chaos of Labor
“What Is Hypnobirthing? A Calm and Confident Approach to Labor”
Hypnobirthing is all about embracing childbirth with confidence, calm, and control. By combining breathing techniques, visualization, and self-hypnosis, it helps reduce fear and pain during labor. Whether you’re planning a natural birth or keeping your options open, hypnobirthing empowers you to work with your body’s natural rhythms. It’s more than just a technique—it’s a mindset that turns labor into a positive and empowering experience.
Lamaze: A Guide to Labor with more Control
What Is Lamaze? Preparing for Labor with Confidence
Lamaze is more than just breathing exercises—it’s a comprehensive approach to childbirth that empowers moms-to-be with tools to manage labor. From breathing techniques to pain management and partner support, Lamaze helps you feel prepared and in control. Whether you take a class, read a book, or use an app, this method offers the confidence and knowledge you need for a positive birth experience.
Why Is There Pain in Labor? A Story from the Beginning
Why Does Labor Hurt? A Tale as Old as Time
Ever wonder why labor is so painful? Some trace it back to the biblical story of Eve in the Garden of Eden. After eating the forbidden fruit, Eve was told she would bear children in pain as part of her punishment. While science explains labor pain as the result of contractions and hormones, this ancient story reminds us of humanity’s long journey through childbirth—a mix of strength, struggle, and triumph.
Biophysical Profile (BPP): A Window Into Baby’s Well-Being
The Biophysical Profile (BPP): Monitoring Your Baby’s Well-Being
The Biophysical Profile (BPP) is a prenatal test that checks your baby’s health by evaluating key indicators like breathing movements, activity, muscle tone, and amniotic fluid levels. Combined with the Non-Stress Test (NST), the BPP provides valuable insights, especially for high-risk pregnancies or when concerns arise. Painless and non-invasive, this test ensures your baby is thriving and helps guide decisions for a safe delivery. Whether it’s the quick modified BPP or the detailed complete BPP, this tool offers peace of mind for moms-to-be.
Non-Stress Test (NST): Monitoring Baby’s Well-Being
The Non-Stress Test (NST): A Quick Check for Baby’s Health
The NST is a simple, non-invasive test performed after 32 weeks of pregnancy to monitor your baby’s heart rate and movements. It ensures your baby is receiving enough oxygen and nutrients through the placenta. Safe and painless, this test offers reassurance, especially in high-risk pregnancies or when fetal movements decrease. With results available quickly, the NST is a key tool in keeping both mom and baby healthy.
Induction of Labor: What You Need to Know
Induction of Labor: A Guided Start to Delivery.
Induction of labor is the process of helping labor begin when it doesn’t start on its own. This may be recommended for medical reasons, such as overdue pregnancy or health concerns, or for personal scheduling. Methods range from medications like Pitocin or Cytotec to mechanical techniques like cervical balloons or membrane sweeping. Each approach is tailored to the mother’s needs, ensuring a safe and supported path to meeting her baby.
Membrane Sweeping: A Natural Nudge Toward Labor
Membrane Sweeping: A Gentle Nudge Toward Labor
Membrane sweeping is a simple, non-medicated procedure used to encourage labor in late pregnancy. By gently separating the amniotic sac from the uterine wall, this technique helps release natural prostaglandins, which can soften the cervix and stimulate contractions. Often performed during a routine prenatal visit, membrane sweeping is a safe and effective option for mothers nearing or past their due date.”
Labor Induction with Pitocin: A Comprehensive Guide
Pitocin: A Key Tool in Labor Induction:
Pitocin, the synthetic form of oxytocin, is a widely used and effective method for inducing or augmenting labor. By stimulating uterine contractions, it helps progress labor when the body needs a gentle push. Administered through an IV under careful monitoring, Pitocin offers a controlled and reliable approach to ensure a safe and timely delivery. With its ability to work alongside other induction methods, it remains a cornerstone of modern obstetric care.”
Labor Induction with Cytotec (Misoprostol) and the Cervical Balloon: A Comprehensive Guide
Efficient and Patient-Centered Labor Induction with Cytotec (misoprostol) and a cervical balloon: Combines effective methods to prepare the cervix and stimulate contractions. Cytotec ripens the cervix and promotes natural uterine contractions, while the cervical balloon applies gentle pressure to aid dilation. This dual approach, complemented by Pitocin and amniotomy as needed, ensures a gradual, controlled process tailored to the patient’s comfort. Encouraging ambulation, providing dietary flexibility, and offering pain relief options create a positive and empowering birth experience. With proper monitoring and patient care, this protocol prioritizes both safety and success for mother and baby.
Induction Practices in Different Countries
Labor Induction Around the World: Diverse Paths to the Same Goal
From modern hospitals in Germany using advanced medical techniques to traditional midwives in Africa relying on herbal remedies, labor induction practices vary widely across cultures. In East Asia, acupuncture and moxibustion may be preferred, while other regions embrace natural methods like walking or dates. Each approach reflects the unique traditions and resources of its community, showing that there are many ways to safely and thoughtfully bring new life into the world.
Natural Ways to Induce Labor
8 Natural Ways to Induce Labor: Gentle Encouragement for Baby’s Arrival
When the due date has passed or you’re eager to meet your little one, natural methods of labor induction may offer a gentle nudge. From walking and nipple stimulation to enjoying dates or sipping raspberry leaf tea, these approaches work with your body to prepare for childbirth. While results vary, these non-invasive techniques can promote relaxation, enhance uterine readiness, and encourage labor—all under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Amniotomy: A Comprehensive Guide
Amniotomy: Breaking the Water for Labor Progress
Amniotomy, or “breaking the water,” is a procedure to intentionally rupture the amniotic sac during labor. It can help speed up contractions, monitor the baby more closely, or address stalled labor. While generally safe, it carries minor risks like infection or cord prolapse. Discussing benefits, risks, and alternatives with your healthcare provider ensures the best outcome for you and your baby.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes and Relief:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain, especially in the thumb and fingers. Causes range from repetitive movements and wrist anatomy to conditions like pregnancy and arthritis. Relief options include wrist splints, cold packs, gentle exercises, and, in severe cases, medical treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery. With proper care, CTS can be effectively managed to keep your hands healthy and pain-free.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pregnancy: Causes and Why It Happens
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Pregnancy: A Common Discomfort
Carpal tunnel syndrome often appears in the second or third trimester due to fluid retention, hormonal changes, and increased blood volume. These factors can cause swelling that compresses the median nerve, leading to tingling, numbness, and wrist pain. Thankfully, relief is possible with wrist splints, hand stretches, cold packs, and proper rest. Most symptoms resolve after delivery, letting you focus on your pregnancy journey with ease.
Wrist Splints: A Simple Solution for Pregnancy-Related Wrist Pain
Carpal Tunnel in Pregnancy: Relief Made Easy
Pregnancy-related wrist pain from carpal tunnel is common but manageable. Wrist splints with or without cooling or heating therapy can provide relief and support. Check out these 10 top-rated wrist splints on Amazon to ease discomfort and keep your hands feeling great!
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a closer look at your cervix, often recommended after an abnormal Pap smear or positive HPV test. By applying solutions like vinegar and iodine, doctors can highlight abnormal cells, helping to detect precancerous changes early. It’s a quick, minimally uncomfortable procedure that plays a vital role in protecting your cervical health.
One Thing at a Time: The Secret to Finding Calm in Chaos
Feeling overwhelmed? Find your calm by focusing on one thing at a time. Just like the woman meditating by the sea, peace begins when you let go of the chaos and embrace the simplicity of the moment. Believe in your ability to be productive, and watch as balance and clarity follow.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A Comprehensive Guide
HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a common virus with over 200 types, some causing harmless infections and others linked to cancers like cervical and throat cancer. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity. While most infections clear on their own, persistent high-risk HPV can lead to serious health problems. Vaccines like Gardasil 9 offer powerful protection against many HPV types, making prevention a key step in reducing its impact.
What Is a Pap Smear? And Why It’s So Important
A Pap smear is a simple, quick test that plays a big role in protecting women’s health. By collecting a small sample of cervical cells, it screens for abnormalities that could lead to cervical cancer. It’s a routine test that catches problems early, giving you the chance to stay ahead of any issues and focus on your well-being. Think of it as a small step with a big impact on your health!
Reflections on Mortality: The Legacy We Leave Behind
Chadwick Boseman’s passing reminds us of life’s fragility and the legacy we leave behind. It’s not about how long we live but how we choose to spend our time—bringing joy, standing for something meaningful, and creating a ripple effect that lasts far beyond our years. What will your legacy be?
Kindness: The Superpower That Costs Nothing but Changes Everything
Kindness costs nothing but has the power to change everything. A simple smile, a kind word, or a small gesture can brighten someone’s day and spark a ripple effect of positivity. In a world where you can be anything, choose to be kind—it’s the ultimate superpower.