Sudden-onset upset stomach. A vague headache. Sort of sore throat. Any one of these may be minor (or maybe not?!) symptoms, which leads to the pressing question: Is she too sick to go to school?

One of my closest mom friends shared an article that talked about the residents of northern Norway, who, one would assume, would have high rates of seasonal depression. Despite not seeing the sun from late November through January, the residents of these northern communities embrace winter and view it as a celebration, not a drudgery.

‘Tis the season for germs. No matter how much one tries to avoid it, this time of year, there are sick people all around–especially true right now in Wisconsin with flu season in full swing and influenza activity unpredictably high.

The winter season often brings with it a flurry of respiratory viruses, ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Many of us experience “winter blues,” which is a temporary, “Tell me again, why do we live in this climate?” kind of thing. Beyond that, though, is seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, which is absolutely no joke.

Planning to expand your family is an exciting time, but before you see that positive pregnancy test, it’s important to be proactive. Preconception counseling is a vital first step to ensure you and your future baby are set up for the best start possible.

What you eat is probably top of everyone’s list when it comes to changes in a new year. We’re big fans of eating loads of fruits and vegetables, and we’ve come up with a variety of ways to do that. We’ve also worked hard to make it super simple for you to keep an eye on which produce items are at their peak each week by updating that information every week online here.

As a new or expecting mom, you deserve support that understands and empowers you through every stage of breastfeeding. At Prevea, our Certified Lactation Counselors—many of whom are also Certified Nurse Midwives—are part of the local healthcare community, and they’re ready to walk alongside you on your feeding journey.

Most people picture doulas in the delivery room — rubbing a mother’s back, holding her hand, whispering encouragement. And yes, we do that. But the truth is, birth is only the starting line.

A Certified Nurse Midwife is a highly trained health professional who specializes in women’s health and obstetrics. CNMs hold advanced nursing degrees and national certification.