CentraState - Healthy Directions

Preparing for Your Pregnancy You’re ready to embark on one of the most significant journeys of your life—pregnancy. Before you conceive, make sure your health is in top shape. “The development of a baby’s brain often begins before a woman knows she’s pregnant,” says Elizabeth Scheff, MD, an ob/gyn with Healthy Woman OB/GYN and on the medical staff at CentraState Medical Center. “That’s why creating a healthy environment before conception is so important.” If you’re planning to conceive, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following: • Avoid contact with toxic substances. • Make sure any health conditions you have—such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, or obesity—are under control. • Quit smoking and drinking alcohol. • Speak with your physician about any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking. • Take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily. • Update your vaccinations. “In addition, women should try to achieve an optimal weight and maintain healthful eating and exercise habits,” says Borislava Burt-Libo, DO, an ob/gyn with Healthy Woman OB/GYN and on the medical staff at CentraState. “Taking preventive measures now can minimize the likelihood of complications during pregnancy.” To learn more about maternity services at CentraState, visit www.centrastate.com/maternity. HD GOT A MINUTE? Meet the Docs Borislava Burt-Libo, DO Medical specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical school: New York College of Osteopathic Medicine Residency: Lutheran Medical Center, New York What led you to the medical field? I’ve always felt delivering babies was a beautiful and noble profession. Giving birth is one of the most important events in a woman’s life, and being an ob/gyn gives me the privilege of participating in that event. What have you enjoyed most in your medical practice? I believe health care should be a collaborative process between the care provider and the patient. I enjoy helping women decide the methods and pathways of care that best fit their needs. It’s rewarding to know I’m making a difference in my patients’ lives. Elizabeth Scheff, MD Medical specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical school: UMDNJ—New Jersey Medical School Residency: Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia What led you to the medical field? When I was little I would perform pretend surgeries on my teddy bear using my mom’s sewing needles and thread. My mom was a nurse, and seeing her work inspired me at an early age. What have you enjoyed most in your medical practice? Being an ob/gyn has all the aspects of medicine that I enjoy. I’m able to develop rewarding relationships with my patients and experience the excitement and joy that comes with delivering a baby. Office: Healthy Woman OB/GYN 312 Professional View Drive Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 (732) 431-1616

• Cover