For any of the following reasons, we ask you to come in for evaluation. If during office hours, you may come here. If after hours, proceed directly to The Birth Place at North Collier Hospital. You are in labor: Labor is expected to occur between 37-41 weeks gestation. Signs of labor are persistent painful contractions [...]
The following medications are considered safe to take in pregnancy in limited amounts. If you have any questions or concerns, or if your symptoms are not improving, please call us. Allergies (Runny nose, sinus congestion, itching eyes): Benadryl, Claritin, Zyrtec Back Pain: Tylenol (acetaminophen); Ice packs, Massage therapy, Biofreeze, Icy Hot Constipation Prevention: Start a [...]
You can continue doing any exercise you were previously doing. However, you should not elevate your core body temperature. General guidelines to help avoid this are to limit your target heart rate to 120-140 bpm or to make sure you can have a full conversation when at your max speed. Drink plenty of fluids before, [...]
Yes, you can occasionally color your hair. We prefer that you not do it during the first trimester.
Eat a healthy well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and complex carbohydrates. If you start the pregnancy at a normal body weight, you need only ~300 extra calories/day. Eat regular meals each day. Try 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day as your growing baby needs a continuous infusion of calories. Eat a variety of feeds [...]
A safe level of caffeine intake is not known. We recommend limiting your caffeine intake to no more than 12 oz per day (one cup of coffee or tea, one can of soda). Different drinks have different levels of caffeine in them so be cautious. Do NOT consume any of the energy drinks that are [...]
In an uncomplicated pregnancy, you can travel until 35 weeks (at the latest). Try to walk around every 1-2 hours to promote circulation and decrease your risk of blood clots.
Yes. Afterwards you may have light spotting or cramps. However, if it gets heavy or regular cramping, contact your provider ASAP.
Routine dental visits are very important. In fact, poor dental hygiene is associated with preterm labor. Schedule your routine cleanings, but let them know that you are pregnant.
Quit Smoking as soon as possible. When you smoke, you risk not only your health but that of your baby. Smoking increases the risk of miscarriage, low birth weight and pre-term delivery. The sooner you quit smoking, the better it will be for both you and your baby. Children in a home where someone smokes [...]