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Dr. Jones: It's time for seven questions for a perinatal health specialist with Meredith Grady.
#1: What Is a Perinatal Health Specialist?
Meredith: I help moms with their postpartum journey. I see moms after both vaginal and C-section deliveries. I help with mobility, educate on pelvic floor, and taking care of their body. So often, the focus is on the baby after delivery, when more attention needs to be on the mom and her recovery.
#2: What's the Most Underestimated Part of Postpartum Healing?
Meredith: That it takes time. Moms forget that their bodies went through a huge change over the course of nine-plus months. It's time to get rid of the bounce-back mentality that healing is complete after six weeks.
#3: What Is the Most Common "Is This Normal" Question From Moms?
Meredith: Moms will ask me, "Is it normal to leak urine from the bed to the toilet?" It's so helpful to time your voids after delivery, meaning try to time your pee every two to three hours after delivery. If that doesn't work, something else is going on, and I'm here to troubleshoot with you.
#4: What's the Best Thing New Moms Can Do for Their Perinatal Health?
Meredith: Take care of your mental health. Take care of yourself. It's so easy to put yourself on the back burner once kiddo gets here. Just make time for yourself.
#5: What's the Worst Thing New Moms Can Do for Their Perinatal Health?
Meredith: Think that they don't deserve help. Think that they are fine. Some people feel that we've been having babies forever and that it's not a big deal. It is a big deal. It can be a very traumatic experience for a lot of moms.
#6: What Is One Early Sign of Labor That Movies Never Get Right?
Meredith: Your water breaking. Oftentimes, you can be in labor for a while before your water breaks. Many times, moms will notice increased trips to the bathroom to clean out their bowels. This can be an early sign of labor and one not as sexy to show on the big screen.
#7: What's the Biggest Myth About Giving Birth That You Want to Bust Right Now?
Meredith: Thinking you can do it on your own. It's okay to need help. It takes a village. And some of you are asking, "Well, where is this village, Meredith?" Create one. It's something you need to do as a mom. And those people who have asked for help, they have become some of my greatest friends and resources.
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SEVEN QUESTIONS FOR A SPECIALIST