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OBGYN Blog
The 3 Trimesters Of Pregnancy: The Third Trimester
May 12, 2023
The trimesters of pregnancy are divided up into three stages which are marked by specific fetal developments. In the past two months, we have gone over the first and second trimesters, leaving us with the last stage of pregnancy, the third trimester. The third trimester of pregnancy spans from...The 3 Trimesters Of Pregnancy: The Second Trimester
April 28, 2023
The trimesters of pregnancy are divided up into three stages which are marked by specific fetal developments. Last month, we focused on the first trimester, which spans from week one to the end of week 12. This month, we will be highlighting the second trimester of pregnancy, which is...4 Things You Should Know About STDs
April 14, 2023
April is Sexually Transmitted Disease (STDs) Awareness Month, which places an emphasis on raising awareness and providing education about sexually transmitted diseases and their consequences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are over 20 million new STI cases in the United States every year, which...6 Tips For Working Mothers
March 31, 2023
Being a mom is a full-time job in itself. Add a 9-5, and you may feel like you’re on the clock all hours of the day. Working mothers are constantly juggling the responsibilities of motherhood, corporate tasks, and self-care time. Although there isn’t a one-fits-all secret to success, optimizing...The 3 Trimesters Of Pregnancy: The First Trimester
March 15, 2023
The trimesters of pregnancy are divided up into three stages which are marked by specific fetal developments. The first trimester spans from week one to the end of week 12 and is when layers of cells become an embryo, which is what your baby is called at this stage....5 Natural Remedies for PMS Symptoms
February 28, 2023
During a woman’s menstrual cycle, hormones rise and fall, often leading to a handful of unpleasant emotional and physical symptoms. These PMS symptoms can include bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness, digestive issues, irritability, appetite changes, or crying spells. Natural Remedies for PMS Symptoms At Kernodle OB/GYN, we understand how...6 Reasons Breast Milk Is Considered A “Superfood” For Babies
February 15, 2023
The human body is simply amazing— it is the most sophisticated organism on earth. Our bodies have bones that can heal themselves, skin that can repair itself, and a brain that can make logical decisions. With all of these incredible capabilities, it is no wonder a woman’s body produces...The Ins And Outs Of Gestational Diabetes
January 30, 2023
Gestational diabetes is a condition in which a woman develops diabetes during pregnancy when she was not diabetic before pregnancy. The CDC suggests about 6% to 9% of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes. However, this condition can be tricky because most women do not experience any specific symptoms. This...5 Ways To Improve Your Cervical Health
January 13, 2023
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and the perfect time to educate yourself about the cervix, an essential part of the female reproductive system. According to the CDC, each year, more than 11,00 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer. This month, we’re calling attention and...A Guide To Women’s Sexual Health In 2023
December 30, 2022
Sexual health is an important part of overall wellness for all adults. But do you know what sexual health really means? The World Health Organization (WHO) has a working definition of “a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality.” That definition of sexual health...5 Tips For Enjoying The Holidays While Pregnant
December 15, 2022
The holidays are a wonderful time to get together with friends and family to commemorate traditions, whether they be cultural, religious, or national. Although it’s often thought of as the most joyous time of the year, the holidays can also be one of the most stressful. Add in growing...5 Breastfeeding Tips For First-Time Moms
November 30, 2022
Mother’s milk is the perfect food for newborns, containing all the nutrients they need. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services suggests the cells, hormones, and antibodies in a mother’s breast milk help to protect babies from illnesses including, but not limited to, asthma, obesity, type I diabetes,...Postpartum Exercise Tips: Fitness After Birth
November 15, 2022
Fitness after birth varies from woman to woman. Some may be able to bounce back quickly, and some may have to take it slow. Either way, your body just brought new life into this world. However long it takes you to reach full capacity postpartum is okay. Remember that...A Mother’s Guide For A Baby In The NICU
October 31, 2022
NICU stands for neonatal intensive care unit and is where premature babies go who require intensive care. Leaving the hospital without your baby is heart-wrenching, but they are in good care with the NICU nurses. Remember, there is no “right” way to go about having a baby in the...The 4 Menstrual Cycle Phases
October 14, 2022
She makes her appearance once a month, but do you know how wonderfully complex your menstrual cycle really is? A women’s cycle has four phases: menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Understanding the different menstrual cycle phases is crucial, as all play a vital role in your ability to get...5 Common Myths About Labor And Delivery
September 30, 2022
Birth— the thing that brings everyone into this world yet remains something few like to get into great detail about. Stories of labor and delivery may be told among close friends and family, but there are still several misconceptions that surround one of the most magical functions of a...4 Mocktails To Keep You Cool This Summer
September 15, 2022
Summer mocktails are a great way to stay cool, keep hydrated, and enjoy the sweet flavors of summertime during your pregnancy!8 Causes Of Painful Intercourse
August 31, 2022
Has the fun and excitement of intimacy been stripped from you due to discomfort and shame? If you are experiencing painful sex, don’t worry, you’re not alone. According to ACOG, pain during intercourse is very common—nearly 3 out of 4 women have pain during intercourse at some time during...5 FAQs About Pregnancy Food Cravings
August 15, 2022
Ever craved the combo pickles and ice cream? Well, if you’ve never been pregnant, you probably haven’t. But surprisingly enough, many women experience the sensation of wanting odd combinations of food throughout their pregnancy. Although there is not one specific time food cravings begin or subside throughout pregnancy, women...Pregnancy Favorites By Trimester
July 29, 2022
Congratulations, you’re going to be a mom! Pregnancy is an undeniably exciting time that comes with a flood of positive emotions and its fair share of ups and downs. Each month will bring something new, and you may be wondering what are some pregnancy favorites by trimester. Pregnancy Must-Haves...Essentials For Your Diaper Bag
July 15, 2022
Leaving the house is an excellent opportunity for a change of scenery and some fresh air. Yet, as a mom, gone are the days when the only leaving-the-house essentials are your keys and purse. Nothing is more important in this new stage of life than a well-stocked diaper bag...5 Self-Care Practices For Pregnancy And Beyond
June 30, 2022
During pregnancy, your body goes through so many changes that it can be hard to keep track. While growing a whole new life, it is also essential to make sure you take care of yourself. Pregnant women can incorporate many self-care practices into their routines to feel better. Most...7 Healthy Summer Habits for Women
June 15, 2022
This time of year is the perfect opportunity to incorporate healthy summer habits. With a few slight changes, you can dust off the colder days and move towards an even better overall feeling. Feel the sun on your skin and soak in these days because it is finally summertime! ...Safe Medications During Pregnancy
May 14, 2022
There are many things that women must think about during pregnancy. As if the list was not extensive enough, add determining whether a medication is safe to take. This is a time when you have to consider ingredients in almost everything. It is important to consult your doctor before...The 4 Basics Of A Urinary Tract Infection
April 29, 2022
The urinary system is made up of the kidneys, renal pelvis, ureters, bladder, and urethra. With so many organs working together, it is common for an infection of one to impact another. The Mayo Clinic defines a urinary tract infection as an infection in any part of your urinary...6 Babymoon Destinations Within Driving Distance
April 15, 2022
Since finding out you’re pregnant, your days have been filled with doctors appointments, preparing the nursery, reading baby books, attending classes, and spending time with your friends and family. But, sometimes, you just want a bit of one-on-one time with your significant other before the new addition joins your...4 Questions to Ask Your OB/GYN at Your Annual Well-Woman Visit
March 27, 2022
It’s that time of year again when we prepare for our annual well-woman visit. That being said, use this time as the chance to collect your important questions answered. Sometimes deciding what to ask is the most challenging part. With so many things to worry about daily, don’t make...7 Early Signs of Pregnancy
March 15, 2022
When you’re a teenager, sexual education classes stress the importance of using contraception to prevent pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections. What they don’t tell you is how difficult it can be to get pregnant when you’re intentionally trying to conceive. It can be hard not to...Why Preconception Care Matters
February 27, 2022
All women should practice good habits and be aware of their health. But for women who are planning on becoming pregnant, certain things become even more important. That’s where preconception care comes in. Seeing an OB/GYN for preconception counseling can help a woman physically prepare for conception and pregnancy....6 Pregnancy Myths: What’s Fact and What’s Fiction?
February 15, 2022
Your pregnancy can be one of the most exciting times of your life. It’s also one of the times you want to be the most informed. A lot of myths float around when it comes to being pregnant: you should do this, you should do that, this isn’t healthy...Postpartum Depression FAQ
January 31, 2022
One of the most impressive capabilities of the human body is childbirth. For nine months, a child develops before entering the world and beginning its journey. When it comes to childbirth, it is easy to focus on the positives that come with it. However, while there is a multitude...9 Women’s Health Goals for the New Year
December 30, 2021
As the end of the year approaches, many women start thinking about what goals they should set for the new year. The new year is a great opportunity to make changes because it gives us a clean page to start on. When making resolutions, health and wellness should be...When to Go to the Gynecologist
December 15, 2021
Obstetrician-gynecologists, or OB/GYNs, are doctors who are educated to provide medical care to women. While obstetrics focuses on pregnancy care and delivery, gynecology is the part of the specialty that focuses on women’s health and the female reproductive system. OB/GYNs can provide a number of services gynecological to women,...8 Common Reasons for a Hysterectomy
November 30, 2021
A hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure many women undergo to treat a variety of health conditions specific to the female reproductive system by removing the uterus. There are variations of the procedure that include different parts of the reproductive system depending on the nature of the condition. Common...What is a High-Risk Pregnancy?
November 15, 2021
A high-risk pregnancy is defined as a pregnancy in which the mother or the baby may be at increased risk for health problems during the pregnancy and/or during and after delivery. It can be scary being told your pregnancy is high-risk, but with the right prenatal care and precautions,...Understanding Miscarriage
October 25, 2021
Miscarriage is often on the minds of people trying to get pregnant trying and who are already pregnant, especially if the pregnancy is in the first trimester. However, knowing certain facts and understanding miscarriage can help alleviate a bit of the anxiety and fear. Because October is Pregnancy and...Stages of Labor Explained
October 15, 2021
If you’re pregnant with your first baby, or if it’s been a while since your last pregnancy, learning about the stages of labor before your due date can help you know what to expect. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that every woman’s labor is different and it...Vaccination During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
September 30, 2021
If you’re planning to get pregnant (or pregnant already), you’re probably thinking a lot about how to protect the health of your future child. You may be wondering about vaccination during pregnancy. Vaccines protect you from certain illnesses, but they can also help protect your baby. A Basic Guide...A Guide to Exercise During Pregnancy
September 15, 2021
First and foremost, if you are expecting, congratulations! Whether this is your first pregnancy or you are a pro, the next 9 months are an exciting time. However, just because you are pregnant does not mean you should let your health slip. If you were exercising regularly prior to...Mastitis Symptoms Every Mom Needs to Know
August 15, 2021
Breastfeeding your baby can be a wonderful thing. It is not always an easy process, especially at the beginning. But when you and your baby both get the hang of things, nursing can be a good opportunity for mother and child to bond. And if you’re breastfeeding, you already...Preparing for Baby: 10 Things to Do Before You Give Birth
July 17, 2021
Whether you are expecting your first child or your fourth, giving birth can be a roller coaster of emotions. Having a new baby can be pure bliss, but it can also be equally exhausting and overwhelming. Particularly during the newborn phase, you may find once routine tasks difficult due...Foods to Eat & Avoid When Pregnant
June 16, 2021
Throughout your entire life, you hear about the importance of a healthy diet. And there’s a good reason, what we eat to fuel our bodies can have a huge impact on our health and wellness. If you were actively trying to get pregnant, you were probably given advice to...15 Must-Ask Questions for Your First Prenatal Appointment
May 20, 2021
Finding out you’re pregnant can be exciting. It can also be unexpected, overwhelming, scary, and a whole host of other emotions–sometimes all at once. Maybe that is just life’s way of starting to prepare you for the emotional roller coaster that is parenthood. But, don’t let your emotions get...Types of Birth Control: What You Need to Know
April 15, 2021
Naturally, we often think of birth control as a method for preventing pregnancy. But, it can also have other use applications such as regulating menstrual cycles, relief for painful periods and to help treat hormonal acne. The type of birth control that is best for you depends on a...What Medications Are Safe to Take During Pregnancy?
March 23, 2021
The do’s and don’ts of pregnancy can be overwhelming. At Kernodle OB/GYN, we want to make your experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible by providing you the resources that you need. One of the most common questions that our providers get asked is what over-the-counter medications are safe...The Annual Exam: 8 Things to Share with Your OB/GYN
February 14, 2021
During your annual wellness exam, you should update your OB/GYN on your overall health as well as your sexual and reproductive health. Before and during the exam, the nurse and the doctor will probably ask you questions about any changes you have experienced between the last time they saw...Folic Acid During Pregnancy: What You Should Know
January 15, 2021
January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month, making now the perfect time to learn about why folic acid is so important during pregnancy. The number one recommendation for birth defect prevention is getting at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. Folic acid is a B vitamin that...5 Top Problems with Menstrual Cycles
December 30, 2020
Your menstrual period is a hormonal process that takes place once a month. The average woman will experience about 450 periods in her lifetime, so you would expect these cycles to operate like clockwork. For some women, their menstrual cycle begins and ends at the same time each month,...Benefits of Being Pregnant in the Winter
December 15, 2020
While the changing of the seasons can be a welcome shift in routine, many dread the dark, cold days of winter. Chilly weather and snow flurries have the potential to add magic to the holiday season, but after all of the festivities have passed it’s easy to get stuck...The Difference Between Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis
November 30, 2020
It’s no surprise that pelvic pain and endometriosis are often categorized together. These two conditions are very similar when it comes to symptoms, and even share some of the same treatments. It’s important to note, however, that while pelvic pain is a common symptom of endometriosis, it doesn’t ensure...What Mothers of Premature Babies Need to Know
November 16, 2020
November is Prematurity Awareness Month, so we wanted to take some time to address this maternal and infant health crisis that affects nearly 400,000 babies each year. Fortunately, the survival rate for premature babies born after 28 weeks who weigh over two pounds, three ounces is very high. Further,...How to Know if You Have Endometriosis
October 30, 2020
While endometriosis can occur in any woman during her reproductive years, it’s generally more common in women in their 30s and 40s. While the cause of endometriosis is not conclusive, genetics, giving birth for the first time after the age of 30, and abnormalities within the uterus may increase...Prenatal Workout Guide
September 29, 2020
As your belly gets bigger and your clothes get tighter, you may wonder, “Is it safe to exercise?”. While the answer is usually that it’s a good idea to exercise in safe ways, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider first because every woman is different. However, if...Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment
September 15, 2020
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, so now is the ideal time to learn more about this disease, how it’s diagnosed, and how it can be treated. According to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), 1 in 78 women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. We’re here...4 Facts about Women’s Mental Health
August 16, 2020
Your mental health plays a large part in our overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, sometimes we have issues with our mental health. It’s important to recognize these issues so we can seek help when we need it. Because September is National Suicide Prevention Month, we’re focusing on women’s mental...3 Options for Menopause Management
July 31, 2020
Menopause occurs when a woman has not had a menstrual period for a full year. It marks the end of a woman’s fertile period. Women reach menopause at different ages and may experience symptoms for several years. According to the US Office on Women’s Health, women usually reach menopause...Regular Morning Sickness vs Hyperemesis Gravidarum
July 17, 2020
Many women experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It is most common during the early weeks of pregnancy. Even though it doesn’t always happen in the morning, this is known as morning sickness. However, if you have severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy you might have a condition called...8 Things To Include In Your Birth Plan
June 30, 2020
Writing a birth plan can help you feel more prepared and empowered as your due date approaches. A birth plan lays out your wishes for labor, delivery, postpartum, and newborn care. Even if you don’t end up sticking to the plan, it is a valuable tool for educating yourself...How 8 Types of Hormones Affect Your Health
June 25, 2020
It’s well known that our hormones have a big effect on how we feel both mentally and physically. The following types of hormones are key players in how your body functions and can affect your health in multiple ways. 1. Estrogen Estrogen is one of the key female sex...Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Really Need
April 29, 2020
If you’re nearing your due date, it’s time to pack your hospital bag. But what do you really need to bring? Use this handy hospital bag checklist as a guide! Your Birth Plan If you have a birth plan, make sure you print out several copies to put in...3 Endometriosis Treatment Options
March 30, 2020
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month all around the world. According to the Office on Women’s Health (OWH), at least 6.5 million women have endometriosis in the US alone. Worldwide the number is estimated to be around 200 million. Right now, there is no cure for endometriosis. However, there is...7 Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
February 14, 2020
Over the last few decades, advancements have been made in surgical procedures that make them safer and easier for patients. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has become the standard for many procedures traditionally done with an open technique. These procedures include robotic surgery, endoscopic surgery, and laparoscopic surgery. Minimally invasive...8 Reasons to Consider Choosing a New OB/GYN
December 16, 2019
You should feel comfortable and safe with the healthcare providers you see regularly. Having trust in the judgment and experience of a doctor or other healthcare professional is an important factor when considering diagnoses and treatment plans. When you don’t have confidence in the doctor/patient relationship, then you may...9 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer
November 15, 2019
Almost everyone knows someone touched by breast cancer, as it is the most common type of cancer among women outside of certain skin cancers. So many factors can contribute to developing breast cancer, including age and family history. Some things you can’t control or change, but there are some...Abnormal Pap Smear Results: What Do They Mean and What Happens Next
June 17, 2019
When it comes to gynecological health, a Pap smear is one of the basic tests a lot of women are familiar with as part of their yearly exam. But what happens if you get an abnormal result? What does abnormal mean? And what happens after you get an abnormal...