Carolyn Morales, MD, FACOG

What is your care philosophy?

My style is personal – I know my patients. I know what happens with their deliveries, and I know what happens with their family members. Being a doctor isn’t just about diagnosing. It’s about listening and helping patients live better, happier lives.
What improvements to women’s care have you seen since you began practicing?

I think the improvements to genetic testing are significant and exciting. Also, we’ve seen terrific growth in the awareness of general health and wellness. People are much more concerned about their health than ever before, which is wonderful!
What is the biggest misconception about your field?

While I think the Internet and technology have been very helpful to raising health awareness, I do see some patients who have misconceptions and fears about conditions based on what they have read online. I really encourage everyone to speak with your doctor before your fears take over. We will help you understand your health and make a plan.
How did being a physician impact your experience as a parent?

I wish I could say that being a doctor made being a parent easier, but doctors go through the same experiences as every other parent! I am convinced that it takes a village to raise our children, and we are thankful for the help of grandparents to raise our two kids.
Are you from the DC area?

I grew up in Puerto Rico and then moved to Baltimore where I got my undergraduate degree in Chemistry at Goucher College. I went back to Puerto Rico for med school where I was fortunate to be able to learn medicine in both English and Spanish. After med school, I returned to the DC area and Georgetown University Medical Center for my residency, which is where I met my husband who is also a doctor.
What is your best advice for new parents?

Sleep when your baby sleeps. Sleep is so important for parents, especially when you are caring for babies.
What are your best tips for staying healthy?

Eat healthy and exercise, but also find a few moments for yourself each day – listen to music, drink tea, have inner peace – to reduce the stress in your life. Stress can really do terrible things to our bodies: metabolic syndromes, inflammation, pre-term labor. Women lead such busy lives, taking care of everything and everyone else around us, and we need to also take care of ourselves.
If I wasn’t a doctor, I’d be…?

When I was very little, I’d tell my parents that I was going to be either a ballerina or a doctor. I did ballet until I was 18, but I’m thrilled I chose to be a doctor! I minored in Business Administration, and I’ve also always been interested in owning and running my own business.