Is intercourse OK?
Intercourse is safe throughout your pregnancy unless you are experiencing spotting, bleeding, contractions, ruptured membranes, or if you’ve been told by your doctor that you have a placenta previa.
Can I travel?
You may travel up to 35-36 weeks of your pregnancy. However, please check with your doctor prior to traveling to discuss the risks associated with travel.
Can I exercise during pregnancy?
Yes. Up to 30-45 minutes of exercise 4-5 times a week. Walking, stationary biking, swimming, aerobic classes are safe during pregnancy. Check with your health care provider before starting an exercise program.
Is smoking really dangerous to my unborn baby?
First and second hand smoke can cause prenatal complications, reduced birth weight, and fetal death. It is recommended to stop smoking while pregnant including cigarettes, cigars, e- cigarettes and marijuana.
Can I drink alcohol during pregnancy?
No. No amount of alcohol is safe while pregnant.
What other tests happen?
• Routine blood tests to identify your blood type and Rh status, to check for anemia, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, HIV, immunity to German measles (Rubella)
• We offer to all patients the recommended screening tests for Downs Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Fragile X, Trisomy 13 and 18 and Spina Bifida. Depending on your ethnic background and medical history, our office will recommend additional testing.
When do I come back?
The next follow-up visit is generally in 4 weeks, and every 4 weeks until 28 weeks. At 28 weeks, patients start coming every 2 weeks, and at 35-36 weeks, they start coming every week.
What happens at my first visit?
• Ultrasound to calculate due date
• Review of your medical history and a physical exam
• Pap smear (if indicated), cervical culture to check for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
• Blood work and prenatal screening tests are discussed
When is my first visit?
Usually between 7-8 weeks of the pregnancy.
How many prenatal visits will I receive?
Typically a patient sees us an average of 13 visits during the pregnancy.