Pregnancy: 5 meaningful moments to share with your family pharmacist
Welcoming a new child is a joyous experience, yet it can also bring about certain concerns. For many parents, it marks the beginning of a lasting relationship with their pharmacist, a companion throughout their family’s life. And this journey starts well before laying eyes on your baby’s sweet face for the first time!
As your baby plans take shape
Are you considering starting or expanding your family? Your pharmacist will be your ally right from the start of this exciting adventure. After evaluating your situation, they can prescribe essential vitamin supplements. Ideally, the intake of folic acid should begin three months before stopping contraception, so think about consulting your pharmacist early on. Couples undergoing fertility treatments can also receive valuable support throughout their assisted pregnancy protocols, including guidance on medication dosage, injections, and managing side effects. Moreover, it’s worth noting that pharmacists can help expectant mothers who want to stop smoking.
For common discomforts during the first trimester
Nausea, vomiting, heartburn—pregnancy isn't always smooth sailing! Did you know your pharmacist can help alleviate these symptoms while ensuring both your and your baby’s health? Given that these common discomforts often surface before the first pregnancy appointment, a visit to the pharmacy may be all it takes to get a professional opinion and, if necessary, a prescription and treatment to alleviate symptoms. This is particularly reassuring for women without a family physician during this period of upheaval.
If you have questions about vaccination
Wondering whether to get a flu shot to avoid complications if you get sick with the flu this winter? Should you get a pertussis vaccine during the second trimester of your pregnancy? Your family pharmacist can answer your questions about vaccine protection. Moreover, many Uniprix-affiliated pharmacies offer on-site vaccination services, providing convenience at a time when you have many medical follow-ups on your agenda.
After a diagnosis of gestational diabetes
Getting diagnosed with gestational diabetes can be concerning for future parents. If you've been prescribed insulin, your pharmacist will provide ongoing support, adjusting dosage as needed to help control your gestational diabetes. They can also show you how to effectively monitor your blood glucose levels to prevent hypoglycemia, and prescribe stabilizing treatments if necessary. You can count on your family pharmacist for guidance on managing this new condition throughout your pregnancy.
Before taking any medication or natural health product
If you're trying to get pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding, certain medications should be avoided. In fact, some of them may be harmful or even dangerous to your baby's development. That's why it's a good idea to talk to your pharmacist about medications before embarking on your baby plans. Throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding, they can offer guidance on the use of over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as natural products.
A GROWING RELATIONSHIP ALONGSIDE YOUR BABY
After your baby is born, your family pharmacist remains your best ally. As you become acquainted with your little one, your pharmacist serves as your first-line professional for any issues that may arise. Consult them for colic, breastfeeding assistance, teething, vaccination schedules, common early childhood illnesses... They are there to answer your questions and look after the overall health of those dearest to you.
Pharmacist-owners affiliated to Uniprix are solely responsible for the practice of pharmacy. Certain conditions apply. See store for details.