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At Pediatric Health Care Alliance, we’re here to support you every step of the way during your pregnancy journey. Whether preparing to welcome your first baby or add to your growing family, this section is packed with expert tips, helpful resources, and information you can trust.
We also invite you to explore why PHCA is the best choice for your little one’s care after they arrive. From newborn visits to toddler milestones and beyond, we’re dedicated to keeping your family healthy and happy.
Let’s navigate this exciting time together. Check back often for new articles, updates, and insights tailored to your needs. When it’s time to choose a pediatrician near you, please visit a doctor at one of our 16 neighborhood locations throughout Tampa Bay.A new baby brings both joy and change to a family. While you're likely feeling excited, it's completely normal to feel a bit anxious about how your older children will respond to the new arrival.
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As your baby grows and heals in the intermediate care nursery, you’ll have many responsibilities to manage. At times, it may feel overwhelming—but take things one step at a time. Go slowly but try not to put things off. Preparing now allows you to channel some of your anxious energy into something productive and meaningful for your child’s future.
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Stocking your medicine cabinet can give you extra peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared to handle whatever comes your way—from tiny toenails to first fevers and stuffy noses. While there’s no one-size-fits-all list for a well-stocked cabinet, here’s a streamlined guide to the recommended essentials.
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Skin-to-skin contact, or kangaroo care, helps newborns regulate temperature, heartbeat, and breathing while promoting bonding and breastfeeding. Originally developed for premature babies, it benefits all infants—even for just a few minutes daily. Both parents can participate by holding their baby against their chest. This practice provides comfort and calm, both in the hospital and at home.
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The first hour after birth is a sensitive period for bonding, as babies are alert and responsive. Early eye contact, touch, and sounds help lay the foundation for your relationship. However, bonding has no time limit. If you’re exhausted or your baby needs medical attention, don’t worry—love and connection will grow over time.
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As you unwrap your baby, you'll notice tiny fingers and toes, soft hair, and possibly dry skin or a bluish tint on their hands and feet. Their head may be slightly elongated with a soft spot (fontanelle), and some may have fine hair (lanugo) on their back. Take in these precious details—it’s the start of a beautiful journey.
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From the moment you find out you're pregnant, you'll start making decisions that will shape your child's entire life; like choosing their name. To give your newborn the healthiest start, it's important to choose a pediatrician who will care for your child from their first wellness visit through the teenage years. Here are some tips to help you find the right doctor.
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Welcoming your newborn into the world is truly a life-changing experience, filled with joy and excitement—but it can also come with a fair amount of anxiety, especially for first-time parents. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, and it's okay to lean on support during those first few days.
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The baby’s arrival is just around the corner—are you ready? Do you have everything you need and checked off all the to-dos? This guide will walk you through everything you truly need to prepare before bringing your baby home.
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Explore which foods to avoid, how your baby is developing during these early weeks, and the safety of taking pain relievers. Additionally, this video will cover healthy weight gain, key precautions to keep you and your baby safe, and the most common symptoms you might experience. Let’s dive into this exciting journey together!
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Two high-risk OBGYNs debunk 25 of the most common pregnancy myths, offering clarity on widely held misconceptions. They explained that pregnant women do not need to eat twice as much, there is no safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, and cocoa butter does not prevent stretch marks. They also emphasized that there is currently no food, supplement, or physical activity proven to help induce labor.
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