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When to Call your Provider During your Pregnancy

  • Baby is not moving at least ten times per day
  • Calf pain
  • Constant belly pain
  • Fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit or chills
  • Leakage of fluid
  • Low, dull and constant backache
  • New onset swelling of legs, hands or face
  • One-minute contractions that are five minutes apart
  • Severe headache or blurred vision
  • Trouble breathing
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Vaginal or rectal pressure
  • Vomiting for 24 hours

 

*Please call your provider office directly if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or have additional concerns.

Pregnancy FAQs

Can I color my hair while pregnant? 

While there are no research studies on the effects of hair dyes on pregnancy, it is not known to cause any problems for the fetus.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while pregnant?

The general rule is to eat a varied diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein (meat, dairy, beans and nuts). There are some foods that can transmit bacteria that can make your growing baby sick. These foods include unpasteurized dairy products, raw or under-cooked meats or seafood and foods not properly refrigerated. Pasteurized dairy products, lunch meat and hot dogs are fine from grocery stores or a deli. Meat should be cooked medium-well. The current recommendation for fish consumption is to eat 12 ounces or less per week because of concerns about high mercury levels in some fish.

Can I have caffeine while pregnant?

You may safely drink up to two servings of caffeine (tea, coffee or soda) per day.

Can I paint while pregnant?

There is no harm in being exposed to paint or fumes from paint if it is latex-based or water-soluble (it can be washed off the brushes with just water). If you need paint thinners to remove paint from brushes, do not use this type of paint while pregnant. If possible, ventilate the area (open windows, turn on fans) while painting.

Can I travel while pregnant?

Traveling by car is safe throughout your pregnancy as long as you are comfortable, wearing a seat belt correctly and you are not having problems with your pregnancy. If you are having complications, please discuss your situation and plans with us for further information before traveling. When traveling by car, remember to take frequent breaks (approximately every 60 - 90 minutes) and walk around to stretch your legs. You should also drink plenty of fluids while traveling. In the last month of pregnancy, we recommend staying within a three-hour radius of a hospital.

• Traveling by plane is safe during normal and uncomplicated pregnancies. Most major airlines have rules about how far along you are in pregnancy to fly on their planes. Please discuss this with your healthcare provider if you plan to fly during your pregnancy.

• International travel should be discussed with your provider. While it is usually safe, there are other considerations such as immunizations or medications that may be required, food and water sources as well as quality medical care if needed while out of the country. You should also consider carrying a copy of your pregnancy record with you. 

Can I take a hot bath or Jacuzzi?

Bath water or hot tubs should be less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit in temperature.

Are self-tanners or tanning beds harmful in pregnancy?

We do not recommend either of these products during pregnancy. If you choose to tan naturally, please be aware that your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy and you should use a sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. 

Why shouldn’t I change my cat litter?

Cat feces can contain bacteria called toxoplasmosis. We recommend you do not change the litter box. If you must change the litter box, you should wear gloves, a mask and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water afterwards.

Is sexual intercourse safe during pregnancy?

For most women, vaginal intercourse is safe anytime during pregnancy. If you have certain complications during pregnancy that would make sex unsafe, your provider will notify you.

Can I exercise while pregnant?

Yes! Exercise has been found to help prevent diabetes and high blood pressure and prepare you for labor. You should drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise. Good exercises for pregnant women include walking, stationary bikes, aerobics, swimming, yoga and dancing at a moderate level. This means you should be able to talk normally while exercising. If you are considering beginning an exercise program, or have had complications during your pregnancy, please speak with us about your specific situation.

 

Health History

Your health history plays an important part in your pregnancy. We respect all beliefs and will work with you to address your needs and wishes throughout your pregnancy journey. Your healthcare team will help you understand the process by explaining what is happening and informing you of your options. They will communicate the benefits and side effects of various treatments and support your best birth experience possible!

Here are a few things to consider as you embark on this pregnancy journey: 

Vaccinations. It is recommended that all pregnant patients receive their annual flu vaccine and a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine. Additionally, it is recommended to have a vaccination against COVID-19. This vaccine is safe and effective during pregnancy. Please talk with your provider if you have questions or concerns.

Bleeding and Anemia. Bleeding during labor and delivery is expected. Mother nature is very smart and increases blood volume during pregnancy. However, anemia is a real threat to blood loss. While we reserve blood and blood products for extraordinary situations, they may be considered during or after birth. IV iron might also be a recommendation by your provider during pregnancy and postpartum to help with anemia that you may experience.

Hypertension. Hypertension during pregnancy can be dangerous for both the pregnant patient and the fetus. That is why your provider will monitor you during your prenatal visits for signs and symptoms. If hypertension occurs, we may monitor you more closely or prescribe medication. If you develop a severe case, you might need to be hospitalized to deliver your baby sooner than expected.

Diabetes. Blood sugar tests are done during pregnancy to check for diabetes. If diagnosed, treatment strategies include daily blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, exercise and monitoring the baby. If your blood sugar is too high, medication will be needed. If you were diagnosed with diabetes prior to pregnancy, you may already have a management plan in place. However, your provider might need to adjust due to pregnancy.

Depression and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. Distressing feelings can occur during pregnancy and are not uncommon. These feelings can be mild, moderate or severe. Know that help is available for you. If you have any concerns, please talk with your provider, and they will help guide you.

Post-Partum Sadness and Depression. Being pregnant and having a baby is physically and mentally exhausting. It is important to have the appropriate support during pregnancy and postpartum. Please notify your provider if you are having any difficulty especially if you feel sad or depressed. Maintain your prenatal and postnatal office visits for periodic checks on your physical and mental well-being.

Obesity, Body Mass Index (BMI) and Weight Management. Over a third of our maternal population is overweight to the point of obesity (BMI >30). Understanding your BMI and knowing what you can do to manage your weight are important. Obesity can impact your health and your baby's health. Obesity increases diabetes, hypertension and bleeding risks. It also increases the risk of dystocia (difficulty delivering a baby) as well as surgical complications and wound infections. If you think you are at risk because of your weight or medical history, please discuss with your provider.

Safe Over-the-Counter Medications

At some time during your pregnancy, you may become sick with a common illness. You may want to take over-the-counter (non-prescription) medication to feel more comfortable. The following is a list of medications that are acceptable during pregnancy. Please note that we may also recommend other medications than those listed here based on your individual situation. If you do not get relief from the medications listed below, please call your provider to discuss your symptoms.

Allergies or SneezingBenadryl (diphenhydramine), Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine)
ConstipationColace (docusate sodium), Metamucil, Fibercon, MiraLAX, increase your fluid intake
CongestionSudafed (pseudoephedrine) can be used only after 14 weeks gestational age
CoughTussin DM (Dextromethorphan & Guaifenesin) or Robitussin DM can be used only after 14 weeks gestational age
DiarrheaImmodium (Loperamide HCI), Kaopectate – please call your provider if more than one dose is necessary
HeadacheTylenol (acetaminophen) regular strength or extra strength
Heartburn or IndigestionTums, Rolaids, Pepcid (famotidine), Zantac (Ranitidine)
HemorrhoidsPreparation H, Tucks, witch hazel, warm sitz bath
Insomnia or Trouble SleepingUnisom (doxylamine, Benadryl
Leg CrampsViactiv Chewable Calcium, Tums, Milk, bananas at bedtime
Nausea, Vomiting or Upset StomachMylanta, Tums, SeaBands (wristbands), Simethicone, or ask the office nurse for prescription medication, ginger lollipops or capsules, Vitamin B6 - 25 mg three times daily
Sore ThroatTylenol, Cepacol lozenges, Hall's cough drops, Chloraseptic throat spray ,saltwater gargles
Stuffy NoseSaltwater nasal spray, Claritin, Zyrtec

Additional Medication Information

  1. Do not take Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naproxen or Aspirin or any product containing these drugs unless directed.
  2. It is important to continue your routine dental care during pregnancy, including regular cleanings and exams by a dentist. If additional treatment is needed, Novocain may be used.
  3. Pregnant women may take some antibiotics, including Penicillin, Ampicillin, Amoxicillin, Erythromycin, Macrobid and Zithromax (Azithromycin). Others may be acceptable as well; these are only some of the more commonly used ones. Always be sure to tell anyone prescribing you medication that you are pregnant.
  4. Any medication that contains pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine or phenylpropanolamine should be avoided if the pregnancy is less than 14 weeks gestation. Please read the label of any cold medicine you are considering to check for these ingredients. Again, despite the brand name of an over-the-counter cold medicine, we strongly recommend that you look at the ingredients of the cold medicine and check each ingredient against the list of what we feel is acceptable for the first trimester of pregnancy versus later in pregnancy.

If you are not sure what medications can be taken while pregnant, please call your provider.