Pregnancy and the Aching Back

I do agree that most healthy adults can handle the flu HOWEVER I have seen even healthy people develop bronchitis and subsequently peneumonia and lose a month of work while their body tries to cope with the onslaught of these infections. No the flu shot is not perfect - no it does not necessarily match the exact viruses and no, it may not prevent the flu in every individual who takes it. But it can diminsh the impact of the illness and certainly prevent many people from not only suffering from the illness but also from experiencing serious complications or even death. Anyone with chronic illnesses, the very young and old are most susceptible to the flu - so it should be an absolute that they get vaccinated. Beyond that - it is to a certain extent personal choice, though it may help to reduce the risk to others if we all get vaccinated.

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In response to "ubermom's comments" that many people confuse "being sedentary - a couch potato - with taking care of themselves" - I do for the most part agree that a 20 minute nap to re-fuel is productive; simply "checking out with bonbons and watching soaps for hours" is not valuable me time. Moms need to do their jobs well and then find meaningful ways to relax or carve out time for their own personal hobbies and downtime. Me time is very important for your sanity and productivity - it cannot be only about the kids and other people.

On to the news of the day that suggest that a pregnant woman's body, paeticularly her back, really does cope with the physical burden of carrying a pregnancy to term, by the accomodation that the lower spine makes (increasing the lordodic curve) to help a growing belly not cause imbalances during standing and walking. You can still have back discomfort and pain, but the changes in the spine certainly help to limit the pain. We also know that the hormone relaxin is sucreted in order to allow the pelvic area to expand and shift, again to accomodate the growing fetus and the area it displaces. You do have to marvel at the miracle of our female bodies and the coping mechanism we have - physically and mentally!!

During this holiday time of giving thanks, why not share something positive about your body!!