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The intentional artificial rupture of amniotic membranes (AROM)—commonly called the general description “breaking the water”—is a well-known procedure in modern obstetric and midwifery care. Medically known as amniotomy, this standard practice has the primary objective to hasten and strengthen one’s contractions, essentially shortening the duration of ongoing labor. What exactly does an amniotomy involve? An obstetrician or midwife will use specialized equipment and methodology to relea …

Deep tendon reflexes are key self-regulating processes for human life. Indicative of connections between the cerebral cortex and spinal cord, these reflexes are critical for assessing the integrity of one’s motor system. Physicians clinically evaluate reflex arcs of muscle-tendon units—the pathways of involuntary responses to stimuli—to examine the health of pathologic processes. If you’re wondering about the five main types of deep tendon reflexes, let’s take a closer look at these stretch …

A common concern among breastfeeding mothers is their ability to maintain breast milk production. The good news is that many do not need to worry about the rare occurrence of an insufficient supply. However, many new moms strive to produce more milk and are unsure if their baby is feeding enough.The truth is that how well a baby drains breast milk is the main influence on its production. Ergo, the incorrect approach, improper latch, or weak suck can effectually decrease one’s supply. Never fear— …

Breastfeeding—known broadly as nursing—provides integral and ideal nutrition for the development of newborns and growing infants. Breast milk carries a wide array of positive benefits for mother and child. Yet the practice is no simple feat. As natural as the process is, breastfeeding is also something that both the mother and baby need to learn, one step at a time.Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is unique. Not one looks exactly like another, as mothers of multiple children can attest to. Ergo, …

What’s more important in our modern era than proactivity about one’s physical, emotional, and mental health? Routine blood tests are a common part of health care—and are key influencers of a large percentage of medical decisions. Blood collection and analysis help with the following: identifying potential health problems, determining treatment options, and making necessary lifestyle changes. Every individual must undergo varying blood draws throughout their lifetime—and each experience looks r …

In 1879, French microbiologist Charles Chamberland changed the healthcare field forever. His creation of a steam sterilizer for medical and scientific applications introduced a life-changing technology to the world: the autoclave.Flash forward to the present day, and this pressurized machine—commonly used in healthcare settings—is the primary standard method for medical instrument sterilization. But what exactly is an autoclave sterilizer, and how does it work? Let’s take a closer look at the te …

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive testing method that measures the amount of oxygen present in an individual’s bloodstream. The results collected from this light-beaming device reveal if one’s heart and lungs adequately supply the level of oxygen required to meet the body’s needs. Low oxygen saturation can impact the body’s ability to function properly. Generally, healthcare providers and physicians use these clip-on medical devices for quick readings in hospitals or clinical settings. Pulse oxim …

To monitor a pregnancy, healthcare professionals employ various equipment and devices. An assortment of trusty health care tools allows midwives and OB-GYNs to stay updated on the health and safety of the expecting mother and baby. Regular checkups throughout the duration of the pregnancy enable doctors to catch any complications early and create the best form of care for each of their patients. Among prenatal healthcare professionals’ arsenal of high-grade medical devices are handheld fetal Dop …

Within the last decade, an increasing number of expectant parents have made midwifery the method of choice for delivering their babies. Ultimately, choosing who will deliver the baby—and where the birth will take place—is a significant personal decision for each mom-to-be.The midwifery model of care differs from traditional OB-GYN physician care in modern healthcare settings. What was once seen as a fringe decision is now a top choice for whole-body health and wellness. Let’s examine closer the …

Medical science is the branch of knowledge concerned with maintaining human health and preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases. As actor and advocate Michael J. Fox once remarked, this science “has proven time and again that when the resources are provided, great progress in the treatment, cure, and prevention of disease can occur.”Now, what all encompasses this list of resources? The right research and data? Supplies for health care providers? How about high-grade medical devices and prof …