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Healthy Holiday Habits for Expecting Mothers

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Healthy Holiday Habits for Expecting Mothers

December 4, 2025

The holiday season is a time for celebration and connecting with family and friends. But, if you are expecting, you may also feel the pressure of balancing all the festive traditions with the physical and emotional needs of pregnancy.


Jillian Henry, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, has a few realistic healthy holiday habits to help you feel your best while still enjoying the season.


Keep a Balanced Plate

When possible, fill half of your plate with fruits and half with vegetables. Enjoy your holiday favorites, including desserts, in moderation. No need to skip them entirely!

Stay Hydrated

Holiday foods are often salty, and indoor heating can increase dehydration. Keep a bottle of water with you, and consider adding electrolyte or flavor packets if that helps you drink more. And of course, avoid alcohol throughout pregnancy.

Prioritize Rest

Holiday schedules can be draining. Be sure to incorporate quiet time to rest and nap. Give yourself permission to say no to certain events or stay for shorter periods of time.

Body Movement

Movement supports energy circulation and mood. Try taking short walks after meals. Always remember to listen to your body and avoid overdoing it.

Manage Holiday Emotions

The holidays can be emotional and overwhelming. Here are a few ways to help you cope: deep breathing for 2-3 minutes, remind yourself you can say no without guilt, and don’t forget to ask for help with cooking, shopping or hosting events. Most importantly, focus on joy – not perfection. It’s okay if traditions look a little different this year.




Jillian Henry, NP, OB/GYN

Iberia Medical Center Offering December 30 Safe Sitter Class

Iberia Medical Center, a Registered Safe Sitter® Teaching Site, is offering the life and safety training program for young teens, grades 6-8 on December 30, 2019.

Safe Sitter® is a nationally-recognized, fun and informative class that prepares students to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting.


Class topics will include:


  • Safety Skills: Students learn how to prevent unsafe situations and what to do when faced with dangers such as power failures or weather emergencies.

  • Child Care Skills: Students learn tips to manage behavior that will help them stay in control of themselves and the children in their care. Students also learn the ages and stages of child development, as well as practice diapering.

  • First Aid & Rescue Skills: Learning skills such as choking rescue and CPR is often students’ favorite part of the class. Students also learn a system to help them assess and respond to injuries and illnesses.

  • Life & Business Skills: The ability to screen jobs, discuss fees, and greet employers will set students up for success now and in the future. Students practice these skills through various role plays.

  • According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) injuries are the leading cause of death in children up to age 5. This class aims to reduce the number of avoidable and unintentional deaths among children being cared for by young teens. The program follows American Heart Association standards for rescue skills and instruction in first aid techniques from the AAP.

Students who graduate from the Iberia Medical Center Safe Sitter® class will receive a completion card that demonstrates their safety skills. Graduates will also receive a CPR card and t-shirt. Classes will take place in CLASSROOM A at the Iberia Medical Center Main Campus, 2315 Main Street. Class fee is $50 per student.


Class size in limited and registration is required. Register at Eventbrite: https://safesitterimc.eventbrite.com


CLASS DATES (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM)

December 30, 2019

*Class session with added hands-only CPR Training.

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