When thinking of a newborn baby, many people envision a picture-perfect image of a smiling, glowing mother side-by-side with her child. While countless women experience the joy and happiness that motherhood brings, nearly 80% will experience something called the “Baby Blues,” according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Unfortunately, 15% will experience something much more severe, called Postpartum Depression (PPD), which is an extreme variation of the baby blues.

Explore our guide to postpartum depression by learning the difference between PPD and the baby blues, signs and symptoms, causes, treatment options, risks and prevention, and when to see a provider.

Pregnancy brings a lot of joy and excitement for expecting mothers but can also mean an increase in health concerns for you and your baby. If you’re pregnant and dealing with a medical issue, do you go to an emergency room or an urgent care? While these two options will both work, it depends on the particular health issue. We’ll take a look at when it’s best to go to an urgent care for pregnancy services and when it’s best to go to an ER instead.

For many women, the thought of attending an annual gynecological exam can bring up feelings of embarrassment or anxiety, which, unfortunately, may lead to avoidance. Some women choose not to visit their gynecologist for modesty reasons or possibly because they are worried something may be wrong. In reality, annual gynecological exams are incredibly important for all women.

The National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC), the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA), and the United States Congress designated January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Marking January as an awareness month highlights the importance of prevention and education on cervical cancer, which is a preventable gynecologic disease.

Did you know that your pelvic floor is working 24/7? That’s right! Your pelvic floor helps support your pelvic organs which include the bladder, colon, rectum, and reproductive organs. While your pelvic floor keeps working, it’s essential to strengthen your muscles. The health of your pelvic floor is important and as we move further into the new year, consider improving your pelvic health with these tips and tricks!