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During your pregnancy, you have multiple testing options available. Some are described as screening and some are described as diagnostic. There are differences between these tests and the information they provide about your pregnancy. […]

Congratulations to one of our sonographers, Julie, as she gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl (Meilani) moments after midnight on January 1st, 2019! It is believed that Meilani is the first baby born in 2019 in the D.C. area. Click on the link below to read more! https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/meet-the-dc-areas-first-baby-of-2019/5093/

Traveling, especially during the holiday season, is common among many people. However, for pregnant women, traveling might present a specific set of challenges. […]

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that between five to 20 percent of the American population contracts the flu each year. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized annually due to the flu and related complications, and it results in over 17 million sick days per year. At least 3,000 people die from the flu each year. […]

It’s common for pregnant mothers to experience intense cravings for certain foods. Pregnancy causes a variety of hormone changes that can then trigger these cravings. While the prevailing notion is that of a pregnant woman wanting pickles and ice cream, the reality is usually a little less extreme. One of the most common cravings is the desire for something sweet. This begs the question: is eating sugar safe during pregnancy? […]

What Is A Fetal Echocardiogram? A fetal echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound that takes detailed images of the fetal heart. Using sound waves, the ultrasound maps out the shape and development of the interior and exterior of the heart. It can also show the cardiac blood flow and heartbeat rhythm. Using the results of these scans, doctors can detect cardiac dysfunction and abnormalities during fetal development. […]

Almost every pregnant mother undergoes at least a few ultrasound scans during the course of her pregnancy. Ultrasound scanning has been used for decades and is one of the easiest and most effective ways of getting a clear image of the fetus inside the womb. Expecting mothers may express concerns regarding the potential effects ultrasound exposure may have on their baby. Here are basic facts to know regarding ultrasound exposure during your pregnancy.  […]

An Overview of Spina Bifida Spina bifida is a birth defect that is classified as a neural tube defect. It occurs when the bones of the spine and the nerve membranes surrounding the spine do not form properly.  Spina bifida can range from mild to severe. The location, size and nerve involvement of the spinal defect has a direct correlation to the severity of spina bifida. Most cases of spina bifida are generally mild and do not require intervention.  More severe cases may require surgical intervention after the baby is born. […]

Dr. Pinckert and GWMFM had the privilege to be part of Katelin and Erica’s surrogacy journey as documented in ‘Life’s First-Evers with Jeannie’ featured on The Ellen Show! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHVJRnCS9EA […]

One of the keys to a successful and healthy pregnancy is eating a well-balanced diet. Mothers who eat a well-balanced diet provide not only themselves with important nutrients but also their baby. It is reassuring to know the vast majority of foods are safe for mothers to consume during their pregnancy. There is a list of foods to avoid while pregnant which are provided below. Foods Not to Eat Raw Meat Avoid consuming raw meat such as poultry, beef, ham, and pork during pregnancy because of the risk of salmonella and toxoplasmosis. This also includes avoiding consumption of raw seafood. It is important that all meat is prepared well-done. […]