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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Friday, April 7, 2006

Author's advice for expectant moms

By Zenaida Serrano
Advertiser Staff Writer

Meredith Books, $14.95, paperback

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The more you know, the better you'll feel.

That's a message for moms-to-be from Dr. Laura Riley, medical director of labor and delivery at Massachusetts General Hospital.

"You should ask questions of your doctor or midwife — there's no such thing as a silly question," said Riley, who's also an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School.

Riley, who was in Honolulu last week as a visiting professor at Tripler Army Medical Center, is the author of a new book, "Pregnancy." Riley's advice for expecting mothers include:

  • Ask questions. As you go to each prenatal visit, never be afraid to ask as many questions as you want. The prenatal visits are opportunities to learn.

  • Choose your sources of medical information wisely. If you seek information from sources other than your doctor, remember that not all sources are trustworthy. Much of what you find on the Internet may be dangerous or inappropriate for your situation.

  • Eat a healthy diet. Prenatal vitamins are important, but they're no substitute for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nonfat dairy foods, whole grains and lean meats.

    Reach Zenaida Serrano at zserrano@honoluluadvertiser.com.