When to Call your Provider During your Pregnancy
- Baby is not moving at least 10 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.