Contemporary Women's Care Pregnancy Health Library

About Your Pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:31:59 -0400

Congratulations! We are here to make this important event a pleasant and memorable one. The doctors and staff at Contemporary Women’s Care take pride in delivering quality care as well as healthy babies.

Proper obstetrical care is very important to your health and the health of your baby. Obstetrical care at Contemporary Women’s Care begins with two appointments.

The first appointment will be with an OB Coordinator and one of our three Midwives. This is a unique presentation we call OB Orientation. OB Orientation includes a small group interactive educational session, a private and personal one-on-one history with focused counseling where you’ll have the opportunity to get your questions answered, and prenatal lab forms you will need. You will also be given “The Baby” CD, an interactive CD loaded with great information for expecting parents. This first appointment will last approximately 1.5 hours.

The second appointment is for your physical examination. Normally this appointment will be one week later and can be set with the provider of your choice, either one of our physicians or one of our midwives. You are encouraged to bring any family members you wish to your obstetrical appointments. We realize this is a very important time for each of you.

For answers to many of the common questions during pregnancy, please see our Pregnancy Library.

Although each physician at Contemporary Women’s Care has her own patients, we work as a team and we’re all your obstetritions. Each doctor’s preference is to provide continuity of care, with the additional flexibility patients often need. What this means is a physician is always available for office care, hospital care or after hours emergencies.

AFP4 or Maternal Serum Screening

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:11:40 -0400

The maternal serum multiple marker test is a prenatal screening test using blood from the mother that can help identify women who may be carrying a baby with certain types of birth defects (such as neural tube defects, Down syndrome, and trisomy 18 syndrome).
Important Facts

Maternal serum multiple marker test is sometimes called triple test, AFP plus, enhanced AFP, AFP3 test or triple screen prenatal risk profile (PRP). More recently, blood is being tested for four markers and the test may be called the quad screen or AFP4, etc.

The test is a simple blood test on the mother’s blood and poses no threat to the mother or to her baby.

This is a voluntary test. If you have any questions about the test, you should discuss them with your physician.

Although the test can detect some common health conditions, a normal result does not guarantee a healthy baby.

An abnormal test does NOT always mean there is a problem with the baby. It simply means that other tests may be suggested.

Abnormal results are usually followed by other diagnostic tests, including high resolution ultrasound or amniocentesis.

The results of this test help to give you and your physician the knowledge to provide the best care and preparation that you need for the birth of your baby.

Amniocentesis

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:12:21 -0400

Amniocentesis is offered to women 35 years of age and older and is performed between 16-20 weeks of pregnancy as an in-office procedure. To perform the procedure, your doctor guides a thin needle through your abdomen and uterus. A small sample of amniotic fluid is withdrawn and sent to a lab.

In the lab, cells from the baby that were taken from the amniotic fluid are grown in a special culture. This usually takes about 10-12 days. Next, the chromosomes in these cells are studied under a microscope. This shows if there is an extra chromosome (as in Down syndrome) or other chromosomal defects.

Complications from amniocentesis are uncommon. Side effects may include cramping, vaginal bleeding, infection and leaking amniotic fluid.

Basic Guidelines for Your Pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:13:22 -0400

Your Pre-Obstetrical counseling appointment will include:

* History taken by nurse
* Prenatal information given
* Prenatal vitamins
* Blood work RX given

Your initial visit will routinely include:

* Physical examination including pelvic exam, pap smear and cultures
* Blood work-results discussed
* Due date established
* Genetic testing discussed if 35 years or older
* Finances discussed

The following regular appointments will include these checks.

* 12 weeks:
o Fetal heart should be heard.

* Approximately 15 weeks:
o For women who will be 35 years of age or older at the time of delivery, an amniocentesis is done if desired.

* 16 -18 weeks:
o An AFP (alpha fetoprotein) blood test is offered (blood drawn from the mother). This test helps determine the possibility of spinal cord defects and other abnormalities.

PLEASE READ PAMPHLET GIVEN AT FIRST VISIT PRIOR TO THIS TIME.

* 20 weeks:
o Before your 20th week of pregnancy pre-register at your hospital. An ultrasound may be done to determine baby’s well-being as well as to gather information on baby.

* 25 -28 weeks:
o Glucose test-blood sugar test is done to see if your body is metabolizing sugar properly or if further testing is needed. This is only a 1 hour screening test but, may require a 3 hour test if sugars are elevated.
o Prepared childbirth class should be taken.:
+ Different types and places are offered to suit your needs.
+ Please register before your 7th month.
o Hospital tour and registration comes with the childbirth classes, or call the hospital for an appointment.

* Near term:
o Weekly visits at 36 weeks.
o From 38 weeks on, pelvic exams may be done to check for cervical changes and baby’s position.

* Post term:
o Further exams may include non-stress test to check fetal heart and contractions. Ultrasound may be done to determine baby’s well being.

Bleeding Gums

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:13:51 -0400

During pregnancy, the extra hormones in your body may cause your gums to swell and bleed. Floss and brush regularly, using a soft toothbrush, to keep your teeth in good shape. Having a dental checkup early in pregnancy is a good idea to be sure your mouth is healthy. Local anesthesia, if needed, does not pose a risk during pregnancy. Dental x-rays should only be done if necessary and with your abdomen shielded.

In addition to bleeding gums, bloody noses occur frequently and are of no concern either.

Chicken Pox Exposure

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:14:12 -0400

Most adults are immune to chicken pox, either from having the disease or by forming immunity from a mild exposure. If you have had chicken pox in the past, you and your baby are protected. If you are not sure, ask your doctor to check your immunity with a blood test. If this shows positive immunity, you are both protected. If it shows no immunity, an injection of a medicine called Varicella Immune Globulin (VZIG) may be given to prevent chicken pox. In order to be effective, this injection must be given within 72 hours of exposure.

Colds and Allergies

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:14:37 -0400

Colds come and go throughout our life, even when we’re pregnant — and they’re not fun! Many things can relieve symptoms at home, sometimes eliminating the need for an office visit.

* Use a cool mist vaporizer/humidifier at night. This moistens the air you breathe to keep secretions flowing.
* Salt water gargles. Use one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water every four hours while awake to cut the mucus in the back of your throat and relieve mild soreness.
* Avoid dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.,) to minimize thick mucus.
* Any brand of saline nose drops (NOT regular Afrin or Neo-Synephrine) are okay in the morning and at night and will help moisten secretions.
* Tylenol (plain) two tablets every four hours if necessary for aches (maximum of six tablets in 24 hours.)
* Take your temperature daily — call us if your temperature is greater that 100.4 Fahrenheit.
* Coughing can be relieved with one teaspoon of honey and 2-3 drops of lemon juice. Hold this in your mouth until the honey thins and then swallow. If coughing interrupts sleep or causes vomiting, call the office. You may try Robitussin DM, an over-the-counter cough medication.
* Increase fluids (especially water) to two quarts a day.
* Get extra rest.
* Actifed or Sudafed may also be use for symptom of congestion when taken as directed on the package. It is preferable that you minimize any medications during the first trimester.

Constipation

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:15:04 -0400

Almost all pregnant women seem to have problems with constipation. One reason for this may be changes in hormones that slow the movement of food through the digestive tract. Iron supplements may also cause constipation. During the last part of pregnancy, pressure on your rectum from your uterus may add to the problem. Here are some suggestions that may help:

* Drink plenty of liquids — at least 6-8 glasses of water each day, including 1-2 glasses of fruit juice such as prune juice. Liquids (such as coffee, tea and cola) that make you go to the bathroom, should not be consumed. They will tend to create a negative water balance in your body and thus make your stools harder and more difficult to pass.
* Eat food high in fiber, such as raw fruits and vegetables and bran cereals, but always drink plenty of fluids when eating bran and other high fiber foods.
* Exercise daily — walking is a good form of exercise.
* You can take an extra stool softener Colace( docusate sodium) daily-even if your prenatal vitamin has some in it.

Diet Suggestions for Nausea

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:15:32 -0400

During the first month of pregnancy and sometimes throughout pregnancy there may be trouble with nausea and vomiting, the following diet suggestions may be of help to you.

Keep unsalted cracker, melba toast, or dry toast in a jar or container by your bed. Eat some before you get out of bed in the morning and lie in bed 20 minutes after you have eaten this. Then start your day.
DoDo

Don'tDon't
Bake, broil and boil your foods. Don’t use fat in cooking as well as fried and smothered foods, gravies, and salty pork.
Drink liquids one hour BEFORE or, AFTER eating. Don’t drink large amounts of fluid with your meals.
Eat 6 - 8 small meals a day; take some food every three hours. Don’t skip meals — an empty stomach has a lot to do with the feeling of nausea.
Eat plain, unseasoned foods and follow your diet for pregnancy. Don’t eat salty, spicy, and gas forming foods such as bacon, sausage, onions, garlic, cake, pies, etc.
SampleMealPlanSample Meal Plan
Upon Awakening Avoid the use of fat in cooking as well as fried and smothered foods, gravies, and salty pork.
Breakfast Citrus fruit (sliced orange or grapefruit)
An egg
Dry toast
Mid-Morning Milk
Lunch Meat or substitute
Vegetable
Bread, cereal or substitute
Fruit
Mid-Afternoon Milk or cheese
Dinner Meat, Poultry or Fish
Vegetable
Potato or Rice
Bread
Fruit
Before Bed Milk

Early Pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:16:49 -0400

Expected Physical Changes:
Breast Enlarge, vascular, pigment darkens
Uterus 20x normal size, 2 tsp. - 2 gallons! Rises from pelvis 1st trimester
Cervix Mucous plug
Ovaries Periods cease, increased hormones protect pregnancy
Vagina Leukorrhea (a thick, whitish vaginal discharge. It results from inflammation or congestion of the vaginal mucosa.)
Sexuality OK until labor unless doctor advises against
May increase or decrease
Heart Workload increases 40 -50%
Increased venous pressure=edema, varicosities, hemorrhoids
Lungs Increased oxygen need and deeper breathing
Bladder Pressure of uterus = frequency
Digestive Gums may bleed, heartburn, constipation, hemorrhoids
Body Joints more mobile, altered posture, diastasis recti (a separation between the left and right side of the rectus abdominis muscle, which covers the front surface of the belly area.)
Skin Pigment changes, acne, itchiness
Body Chemistry Hormones+ insulin increase, fat deposits, sodium and water retention
Expected Emotional Changes:
Mom Cravings, dreams, fatigue, altered sexuality

Mood Swings – ambivalence, irritability, sensitivity, vulnerability, fears

Tasks – accepts, feels unique, focuses inward, seeks female support,
awareness of baby, focusing on child
Dad Couvade – Having physical symptoms, nurturing, alienation,
masculinity, neutrality

Tasks – ambivalence, acceptance of changing body and baby,
fears of harming baby during sex, confused with moms focus, dreams of older child
Baby Milestones:
3rd Week Heartbeat
6th Week 1/2 inch long
9th Week Every organ system and structure is formed
12th Week Spontaneous movements, has urine, 3 inches, 6 oz, can hear heartbeat ultrasound
17 - 20 Weeks Mom feels movement! 8 inches, 1.5 oz.
21 - 24 Weeks Brain mature, lungs begin to mature, 11 inches
25 - 29 Weeks Lungs begin to work, nervous system maturing, 14 inches, 2 lbs. 10 oz.

Exercise during pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:22:14 -0400

Exercise can help strengthen muscles used in labor and delivery and lessen some of the discomforts of pregnancy. It may give you more energy and make you feel better. The type of exercise you can do during pregnancy depends on your health and how active you were before you became pregnant. This is not a good time to take up a new, hard sport. If you were active before, you can continue to be within reason. If, for example, you play tennis, you can still play unless you have special problems or feel very tired.

Most of the time, a healthy woman with no complications in her pregnancy, can keep working until the end of her pregnancy. Some may need to make some changes. If you are experiencing problems that you feel may be related to your job, please discuss this at one of your office appointments. Your family should be able to help you at home as fatigue increases at the end of your pregnancy.

Hair color and perms

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:22:35 -0400

Often pregnant women have concerns about the safety of hair dyes and permanents during pregnancy. There is no scientific data on this question, but it seems unlikely that these types of exposures are harmful.

Headaches

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:22:56 -0400

Headaches are very common during pregnancy. Usually headaches do not signal a serious problem. How often they occur and how bad they are may vary. It is important to discuss with your health care team which medications you can use for the headache. You should contact your doctor if your headache does not go away, returns very often, is very severe, causes blurry vision or spots in front of your eyes, or is accompanied by nausea. You may use Tylenol (acetaminophen) two regular tablets or one extra-strength tablet for headaches. Often resting for a nap with a cool compress on your head will give more relief than Tylenol.

Heartburn

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:23:23 -0400

The words indigestion, heartburn, reflux, and ‘gerd’, all refer to a burning feeling that starts in the stomach and seems to rise into the throat. It occurs when digested food from your stomach, which contains acid, is pushed up into your esophagus (the tube leading from the throat to the stomach.) Liquids that you drink also take up space in your stomach, so they may also add to the problem.

Changes that take place in your body during pregnancy may worsen indigestion. Changes in your hormone levels slow digestion and relax the muscle that normally prevents the digested food and acids in your stomach from entering the esophagus. In addition, your growing uterus presses up on your stomach.

To help relieve heartburn, try the following:

* Add an extra pillow to sleep on at night.
* Eat five or six small meals a day instead of two or three large ones. (A glass of fluid may be equal in volume to a small meal, so avoid drinking large amounts of fluids with meals.)
* Avoid foods that cause gas, such as spicy or greasy foods.
* Do not eat or drink several hours before bedtime.
* Wait two hours after eating before exercising.
* Antacids may be helpful, such as Maalox, Tums, or Gaviscon. Zantac and Pepcid AC also are safe to try. Liquid will be more effective than tablets. If the problem is frequent and only briefly relieved by antacids, speak with your doctor or midwife.

Hemorrhoids

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:23:47 -0400

Very often pregnant women who are constipated also have hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are varicose (or swollen) veins of the rectum. They are often painful. Straining during bowel movements and having very hard stools may make hemorrhoids worse and can sometimes cause them to protrude from the rectum.

Tucks are wuthhazel compresses and are very soothing to tender hemorrhoids. Over the counter hemorrhoid cream may be used.

Hemorrhoids usually improve after the baby is born. Several things can help give relief or avoid the problem in the first place:

* Avoid getting constipated.
* Eat a high-fiber diet.
* Drink plenty of liquids.
* Add a daily stool softener (Colace) if needed.

Leg Cramps

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:24:13 -0400

In the last three months of pregnancy, you may find that you have more leg cramps. Get plenty of calcium (1500 mg daily) and potassium (oranges or bananas). Stretching your legs before going to bed can help relieve cramps. Avoid pointing your toes when stretching or exercising.

Nuchal Translucency (NT)

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:24:38 -0400

Nuchal translucency (NT) is a diagnostic ultrasound for early genetic testing. It is performed between 11 and 13 weeks with the optimum time 11-12 weeks.

The ultrasound is done in conjunction with blood tests that have a higher level of accuracy than any previous testing available. Your doctor or midwife can explain in more detail the advantages of choosing these tests.

As with most NEW technology, these tests are not always covered by your insurance. The ultrasound performed by our technician and is billed to your insurance using CPT code 76813 at a cost of $250. You may want to check with your insurance prior to scheduling the procedure to confirm coverage. The blood tests will be submitted to GeneCare laboratory, and may also be covered by your insurance. You can contact GeneCare at 800-277-4363 to find out if they participate with your insurance compancy. The lab will bill you directly for any costs not covered by insurance.

If interested, please ask for more detailed information regarding genetic testing and the information it provides.

If your insurance does not cover the procedure, and your choose not to pay out of pocket for this new technology, the standard of care remains an AFP (alpha fetal protein) blood test done in the second trimester of pregnancy. The choice is yours.

OB Medication List

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:25:28 -0400

The following list of medications may be taken during your pregnancy.

DO NOT TAKE ANY MEDICATIONS NOT ON THIS LIST WITHOUT CALLING OUR OFFICE AT 727-462-229. This also includes any other medications prescribed by other doctors outside our office. If your symptoms are not relieved within 48 hours or if they worsen, please call.
∗Fever or headache: Tylenol, Regular or Extra Strength
Sore throat: Chloroseptic Lozenges, Salt water gargle
Cough: RobitussinDM
Decongestant: Regular Sudafed
Nasal Spray: Ocean Spray
Antihistamine: Chlor-trimeton, Benadryl
Heartburn: Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, Riopan, Maalox, If symptoms are severe, you can take: Zantac, Tagament, Pepcid AC
Constipation: Colace or Surfak Stool Softener or Metamucil
Severe Constipation: Milk of Magnesia
Nausea: Emitrol, Ginger or Oil of Peppermint
∗Diarrhea: Kaopectate or Imodium
Special Instructions:

∗ Report any fever greater than 100.8 that does NOT respond to Tylenol.
∗∗ If you have vomiting and diarrhea for more than 24 hours please call the office.
DentalProcedures:Dental Procedures:

If you require dental procedures during your pregnancy, the following
medications are allowed.
Anesthetic: Novocaine, Lidocaine, Xylocaine without Epinephrine,
Pain: Tylenol 3, Vicodin, Tylox, Darvocet, Percocet
Antibiotics: Erythromycin, Penicillin, Keflex, Ampicillin, Amoxicillin
Dental x-rays are allowed if your abdomen is shielded with a lead apron.

Painting during pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:26:01 -0400

Latex paints manufactured before 1991 used small amounts of mercury as a preservative. There was some concern that this mercury could present a health hazard, so mercury is no longer used in latex paints. The fumes from latex paints are not felt to be a specific risk to a developing baby, but it is always wise to paint in a well-ventilated area. The fumes from oil-based paints, turpentine, paint thinner, etc., are best avoided by pregnant women. Also, remember when painting to avoid use of a ladder to reduce the risk of injuries due to a fall.

Postpartum Depression

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:26:26 -0400

Many new moms feel happy one minute and sad the next. If you feel better after a week or so, you probably just had the “baby blues.” If it takes you longer to feel better, you may have postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression can make you feel restless, anxious, fatigued and worthless. Some new moms worry they will hurt themselves or their babies. Unlike the “baby blues,” postpartum depression does not go away quickly. Very rarely, new moms develop something even more serious. They may stop eating, have trouble sleeping and become frantic or paranoid. Women with this condition usually need to be hospitalized.

Researchers think that changes in your hormone levels during and after pregnancy may lead to postpartum depression. If you think you have it, tell your health care provider. Medicine and talk therapy can help you get well.

For more information download the excellent brochure from the National Womens Health Information Center called “Depression During and After Pregnancy.” requires acrobat reader.

Saunas, hot tubs and tanning booths

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:26:48 -0400

The use of saunas and tanning booths is not recommended in pregnancy. The extreme temperature could potentially damage the developing baby. Extremely hot baths are not recommended during pregnancy. Bath or hot tub temperatures should be below 100° Fahrenheit.

Sex during pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:27:10 -0400

Some people worry about having intercourse during pregnancy. They may be afraid it will cause a miscarriage. For a healthy woman with a normal pregnancy, intercourse is safe into the last weeks of pregnancy. For your comfort, you and your partner may want to try different positions. Your doctor or midwife may advise you to limit or avoid sex if there are signs of problems in your pregnancy.

Swelling

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:27:32 -0400

A certain amount of swelling (called edema) is normal during pregnancy. It occurs most often in the legs-it is least in the morning and most prominent in the evening. Elevating the legs above the heart (propping them up while laying down) usually makes the swelling less by the next morning. Swelling increases during the last few months of pregnancy, and often occurs more in the hot summer months. Let your doctor or nurse know if you have swelling in your face, because this may be a sign of another problem. A clue that your hands are swollen is that your rings are too tight. Never take medications (water pills) for swelling unless they have been prescribed for you during the pregnancy.

Things you can do to help with swelling:

* Elevate you legs when possible
* Rest in bed on your side
* Don’t wear stockings or socks that have a tight band of elastic around the legs.
* If you must sit a lot on the job, stand up and move around from time to time.
* Try not to stand still for long periods of time.

Travel in Pregnancy

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:27:58 -0400

Most women can travel safely until close to their due date. The most comfortable time to travel is usually in the middle of pregnancy. Unless you have an urgent need to leave the area after 35 weeks along, your risk of going into labor is increased and we would rather you stay in the area. Call your physician if you have any questions.

What about seat belts? During pregnancy, many women have concerns about seat belts. There is no question that you are much better off wearing your seat belt during pregnancy. The baby is very well protected in the uterus from trauma, but car accidents are the most common source of trauma during pregnancy. The most common reason for fetal death is maternal death, and maternal death is much less likely in mothers who wear seat belts. Both lap and shoulder belts should be worn at all times. The lap belt should be worn low on the hips, not over the uterus.

Keep moving.When traveling, it’s important to get up and walk every few hours. It’s best also to be mindful about avoiding crossing your legs during long travel. Also remember that after delivery, an approved car seat must be in you car in order to take your baby home from the hospital.

What about flying?People also have concerns about flying during pregnancy. In general, there does not seem to be an increased risk for women who fly during pregnancy. Any woman who sits for long periods of time without getting up for a walk is at risk for developing a blood clot in her legs. An aisle seat is usually advisable on flights over two hours. You should get up, stretch your legs, and take a walk up and down the aisle.

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery (VBAC)

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:28:37 -0400

Contemporary Women’s Care is one of the only practices in Pinellas County to support Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery (VBAC).

A cesarean birth is the delivery of a baby through an incision (cut) made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. Doctors used to believe that if a woman had one cesarean delivery, all other babies she had should be born in the same way.

Today, doctors know that many women who have had a cesarean delivery can later safely give birth though the vagina. This is called vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) delivery. VBAC can be a safe option for many women.
Reasons to Consider VBAC

Of women who try VBAC, 60 percent to 80 percent succeed and are able to give birth vaginally. The success rate varies depending on the reason for the previous cesarean delivery.
Risks of VBAC

VBAC has risks as well as benefits. With VBAC, there is a risk that the cesarean scar may tear during delivery. There also is a risk that the uterus will tear (rupture). Although a rupture of the uterus is rare, it is serious and may be harmful to you or your baby.
Is VBAC Right for You?

In deciding if you can try VBAC, a key factor is the type of incision you had in your uterus for your previous cesarean delivery. Some types are more likely to rupture than others.
Other Factors to Consider

Other factors may affect whether VBAC is an option for you. These include problems with the placenta, problems with the baby, or certain medical conditions during pregnancy.

Vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is not performed in some hospitals. The hospital or other facility where the baby is delivered should be equipped to handle an emergency cesarean delivery. Talk to your doctor to find out what is best for you.
Finally...

VBAC can be an option for many women. Depending on your needs, VBAC may be a good choice for you.

This excerpt from ACOG’s Patient Education Pamphlet is provided for your information. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for visiting your doctor. If you need medical care, have any questions, or wish to receive the full text of this Patient Education Pamphlet, please contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.

To ensure the information is current and accurate, ACOG titles are reviewed every 18 months.

© Copyright October 2005 American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Vomiting

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:29:05 -0400

The following suggestions may be useful in relieving nausea and vomiting:

* Acupressure ‘Sea Bands” that are used for sea sickness are approved by the FDA for use in pregnancy (they are often available at boat stores or regular drug stores).
* Ginger tablets or oil of peppermint from health food stores also can be used.
* These foods may not be well tolerated:
o Greasy or fried foods, as they take longer to leave the stomach
o Very sweet foods
o Spicy hot foods
o Foods with strong odors
* Eat smaller, more frequent meals, that is six small meals and snacks.
* Drink fluids between meals, not as much with meals.
* Eat foods that are at room temperature or cooler. Hot foods may trigger nausea.
* Drink beverages chilled or cold. Decaffeinated soda is often well tolerated.
* Eat slowly and rest after meals. It is best to rest sitting in an upright position for about one hour after eating.
* Dry toast, soda crackers, or dry pre-sweetened cereals may relieve periods of nausea.

Keep track of when you feel nausea and what causes it. If continued vomiting occurs, do not eat or drink anything until the vomiting has stopped. As you feel better, try some small amounts of clear liquids (broth, Jello, apple, grape, or cranberry juice, and/or popsicles.) Other things that may help:

* Tart or salty foods such as lemons or pickles may help decrease nausea.
* Avoid mixing hot and cold foods at a meal, as it may stimulate nausea.
* Ask your doctor about medicine to control nausea.
* Avoid eating in a room that is stuffy, too warm, or has cooking smells/odors that may disagree with you.
* Wear loose fitting clothing.
* To avoid the sight/smell of foods, eat meals out or have others bring prepared food to you.

These are signs that you need to call your doctor:

* Unable to keep anything down for more than two days
* Fainting
* Vomiting blood
* Jaundice (skin is greenish or yellow)
* Your weight drops more than five pounds within a week

Yeast Infections

Sun, 08 Jul 2007 18:29:32 -0400

It is not uncommon to develop a yeast infection during pregnancy. If such an infection does occur, it is safe for you to use over-the-counter products, such as Monistat. These are readily available at stores.

However, if you are early in your pregnancy, before 12 weeks, it is important that the cream be used externally only. After 12 weeks, it is safe to gently use the applicator internally.