Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to the materials you received in the orientation folder, for your convenience, we have listed answers to some commonly asked questions. Whenever possible, please write down any questions to review at your prenatal visits.
1. Who will deliver my baby?
Because we rotate coverage, either Katie Gleason, midwife, or Doctor Chauhdry may attend your delivery. If you would like to meet any of our other physicians, please inform our front desk staff so they can book your next visit accordingly.
2. Which medications are safe?
Tylenol for headache and fever
Robitussin DM for cough
Ricola, Halls, Chloraseptic spray for sore throat
Sudafed (plain) for congestion
Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin for allergies
Kaopectate/Imodium, Pepto-Bismol for diarrhea
Colace, Milk of Magnesia or Metamucil for constipation
Monistat or Gynelotrimin for yeast infections
Tums, Mylanta, Maalox, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Zantac or Pepcid AC for heartburn
Vitamin B6 (50 mg once a day), Unisom, Ginger and Seabands for nausea
3. What routine tests should I expect to have, and when are they done?
First Office Visit: Blood type, complete blood count, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, rubella, HIV, urine culture, cystic fibrosis carrier screening, ultrasound.
First Trimester Screen: Screening for Trisomy 18, Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) with Nuchal Translucency US.
Blood draw at 10 weeks gestation or later. This test screens for Trisomy 21, 18 and 13 and can determine your baby’s gender.
Ob Complete Ultrasound: Done between 18 and 20 weeks.
Glucose Test: Screening for gestational diabetes. Done between 24 and 28 weeks.
Group B Streptococcus: Done at 36 weeks.
4. I was exposed to chicken pox. Do I need to worry?
If you had chicken pox as a child, you are immune and do not need to worry. If you have no history of chicken pox and are exposed, please call our office.
5. I was exposed to a child with “slapped cheek” syndrome. Do I need to worry?
“Slapped cheek” syndrome, also known as fifth disease, is a common viral infection in children caused by parvovirus B19. Although it rarely causes infections in the developing fetus, please notify us of your exposure.
6. Can I color my hair and get my nails done?
Yes.
7. Can I travel?
As long as your pregnancy is uncomplicated, travel by air or car is fine as long as emergency care is available at your destination. We recommend the purchase of travel insurance (see your travel agent for details). Travel must be completed by 36 weeks.
8. Can I exercise?
Yes, exercise is encouraged. There is no recommended heart rate restriction. It is acceptable to maintain the same level of activity that you had before pregnancy, provided that you feel comfortable. We encourage exercises for the lower back, such as yoga and stretching.
9. Can I have intercourse?
Yes. Intercourse will not cause harm. You may notice some spotting or light bleeding up to 48 hours after intercourse. This is normal. If bleeding is heavy or persists beyond 48 hours, please call our office.
10. Is it safe to sleep on my back?
By the time most pregnant women reach the third trimester (28 weeks), they no longer feel comfortable sleeping on their backs. Most women will want to sleep on their sides to feel more comfortable. A long body pillow can help provide more comfort sleeping in side positions.
11. How much caffeine is acceptable?
Generally, we suggest limiting your caffeine intake to two (2) hot or cold drinks, or approximately 200 mg, per day.
12. Which cheeses are safe to eat during pregnancy?
Any cheese that has been pasteurized, including soft cheeses, is safe to eat in pregnancy.
13. What are the risks of consuming mercury in seafood?
For information about the risks of mercury in fish and shellfish, call the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s food information line at 1-888-(SAFEFOOD) 723-3366, or read What You Need to Know about Mercury in Fish and Shellfish.
For information about the safety of locally caught fish and shellfish, visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s fish advisory website or your state or local health department.
14. I plan to do some painting. What do I need to know?
Avoid oil-based paint. Latex-based paint is acceptable as long as adequate ventilation is available.
