Many women are surprised to learn that a CNM can request an epidural and pain management options during labor. Certified nurse midwives in the birthing unit of a hospital have the same authority as an OB-GYN to order epidurals for their patients. Remember, neither the CNM nor OB-GYN actually administers the epidural, an anesthesiologist does.

For most people, choosing a certified nurse midwife (CNM) or an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), is a matter of personal preference that is easier to make if you can pinpoint what issues are important to you and ask questions. This may be their individual credentials, views on pain medication or simply a matter of convenience that impacts your decision. Knowing the basics about these practitioners can smooth the way to a happier, healthier pregnancy and birth.

It’s important to note there are many other important differences between an OB-GYN and a CNM. For instance, a midwife can independently guide and support a healthy pregnancy, while an OB-GYN must be involved in high-risk situations and surgical interventions, such as C-section deliveries.

Fortunately, this really doesn’t need to be an either/or situation. Many area physician practices, like mine, have nurse midwives on staff to enhance the pregnancy experience. This is an ideal situation for women who seek both piece of mind as well as the personal and emotional support of a nurse midwife.

While football is widely recognized for the quantity and types of injuries related to its participants, your son makes a valid point about cheerleading. Last year alone, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons estimates more than 10,000 concussions were suffered among cheerleaders, gymnasts and dancers.

A concussion is a disruption of the normal chemical activity in the brain and is caused by the brain being jarred. Concussions can cause sensitivity to light or sound, headaches, loss of memory, dizziness, balance problems, confusion, drowsiness, nausea, difficulty in concentration and other problems. Concussion symptoms disappear within seven to 10 days in approximately 80 percent of cases, but symptoms may remain for weeks, months and, occasionally, for years.

One of the biggest misconceptions people have concerning concussions has to do with the force needed to cause one. The reality is impact does not have to be hard – and it frequently happens in something other than contact sports. In fact, the person at the top of a cheerleader pyramid is 10 times more likely to suffer a concussion or a catastrophic injury than a football player.

When deciding on whether to allow your child to participate in a sport, it’s important to remember that through proper education and training, we can begin to recognize and help prevent youth sports injuries; thus minimizing long-term effects.

 You bring up a great point about the rise in obesity and diabetes, but I would point out this is not exclusively a childhood problem. These two health concerns are affecting every age and are especially prevalent in our area. There are a number of factors contributing to the rapid gain in overall weight and declining health of society. A diet laden with sweets is one, and lack of activity and consumption of processed and fast foods rank high on the list as well. But in the spirit of Easter, let’s focus on the sugar. As you fill this year’s baskets, consider adding activities, puzzles or games that will engage your child’s mind or get them playing outside. Work in some nutritious treats as well. Carrots and colored boiled eggs are  great snacks from the Easter Bunny!

Here are some nutritional facts for some classic Easter favorites:

• 1 Cadbury Creme Egg-150 Calories
• 5 Peeps-160 Calories
• 1/4 Cup of Jelly Beans-150 Calories
• 1 3/4 oz. Medium Hollow Chocolate Bunny-260 Calories
• 1 Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg-180 Calories
• 2 Deviled Eggs-130 Calories

Let’s assume you eat two Cadbury Crème Eggs and a half a cup of jelly beans in a day. You will have eaten approximately 600 calories solely on the desire to satisfy your sweet tooth. This is not by any stretch of the imagination out of the ordinary, and something most parents will do while “inspecting” their child’s basket. I suggest getting out and enjoying some fresh spring air as a family – consider cycling or a brisk walk to burn off those calories and as you said “stay balanced”.