Vim & Vigor - Winter 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center - (Page 45)

* Movement and positioning techniques to manage pain can be suggested by a doula or a midwife. Strategies include hot/cold applications, counterpressure, hip squeezes, lunges and use of a birthing ball. * Hypnobirthing uses self-induced hypnosis to help manage labor pain, although the mother never enters a sleeplike state. She is guided toward a deep focus that promotes the release of endorphins, known as the "feel good" hormones in the brain. * Acupuncture and acupressure are two other techniques that may relieve pain, regulate contractions and strengthen labor. Make Your Opinions Known online PHOTOGRAPHY BY THINKSTOCK Once you know what kind of a birth you want, write down your preferences and make copies for each member of your team. With a detailed plan, the hospital staff can do its best to accommodate you-even if things don't go exactly as expected. Which isn't to suggest that this amazing day will be anything less than what you've been anticipating. You'll be in a comfortable place with a team you trust, about to star in one of life's more spectacular experiences. Now all you have to do is ﬁgure out that car seat. Start Planning for Baby Whether you're already pregnant or starting to plan for your family, GMC's Gwinnett Women's Pavilion is large enough to serve all your needs and small enough to provide you with a personalized experience. To learn more, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/gwp. Packing Your Grab baG it's the last thing you'll grab as you head out the door-your overnight hospital bag. Cathie Brazell, BSn, MHA, CPHQ , director of Women's and Children's Services at Gwinnett Medical Center, says smart packing is key to a happy delivery. "Having practical and comfort items in your bag can make your stay in the hospital much more pleasant," she says. "For example, your support person may not want to leave you during labor, so energy bars can really come in handy. Have your bag packed no later than 36 weeks-but let's hope you go the full 40!" FOR YOU: ❍ insurance card, picture iD, hospital forms and copies of your birth plan ❍ Clothes, including socks (for walking the halls), underwear, a front-buttoning nightgown or pajamas (for easy nursing), a light robe ❍ nursing bras ❍ Cellphone and charger ❍ MP3 player loaded with music ❍ Basic toiletries ❍ A change of clothes for leaving the hospital ❍ A book or magazines ❍ Camera ❍ Comfortable clothes for your support person (hospitals may keep the air cold) FOR BABY: ❍ Approved car seat ❍ Going-home outfit ❍ outerwear, including socks and hat (babies are sensitive to cold) WI NTER 2013 45 http://www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/gwp

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Winter 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center

Vim & Vigor - Winter 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center
Contents
Phil’s Feature
Heartfelt Purpose
Not Too Busy to Beat Cancer
Got Excuses?
Managing Your Health with a DIY Tool Kit
Is It the Stress Talking?
The Wonderful World of Greens
Knee-to-Know Basics
On the Cover
Run for Your Life
14 Good-for-You Gifts
Special Delivery
Virtual Health
PrimeTime Health
Inspired Giving
Heads Full of Hope
Out of the White
Transforming Healthcare

Vim & Vigor - Winter 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center