Guidelines for Pregnancy

Congratulations, you're pregnant!

First we would like to say "Congratulations" on becoming pregnant and thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey to begin (or expand) your family.  Here are some basic guidelines for what to do during your pregnancy:

Nutrition: Small meals are best. Choose fruits and vegetables that have taste. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water and juices. Orange juice is one of the very best because it contains folic acid. If you are unable to drink at least two full glasses of milk daily for calcium, try yogurt, cheese or ice cream. Tums can also be used because they are plain calcium, can be carried in your purse, and can be taken any time. Meats are a good source of protein, but should be well cooked. Make sure that you continue daily prenatal vitamins.

For more information on food and drinks to avoid during pregnancy, click here

 

Nausea: Certain tastes and smells can cause nausea. When preparing meals, plan foods that you can tolerate and take a short time to prepare. Keep something in your stomach at all times. Grapes or apples are good snacks. Prepackaged cheese or peanut butter crackers tend to be high in sodium and fat, so are not necessarily the best choice to combat nausea.

 

Medication: Tylenol or Tylenol ES are allowed if necessary. There are many other drugs that can be used during pregnancy safely. If you have a problem that warrants something stronger or different, your doctor should be notified so it may be investigated further. Baby aspirin that was prescribed during IVF cycle should be continued until the doctor or nurse tells you to stop, usually at the time when your progesterone is stopped.

Click here for a full list of safe over-the-counter medications

 

Spotting or cramping: This could be a signal from your body to get off your feet. Intermittent cramping is normal. If cramping is moderate to severe, this may not be normal and you should notify your doctor. If you are not sure if it is gas or even a cramp, try lying on your left side. If this is a cramp, you should feel some relief almost immediately. Twinges on either side are normal. This is probably caused by uterine ligaments, which are stretching as the uterus grows. If spotting occurs, get off your feet and please call us so that we can determine whether you need to be evaluated. Bleeding in the first trimester is very common and most of the time is of no serious consequence.

 

OB care: Make appointment for about two weeks after your last OB appointment with us unless the doctor recommends something different. An ultrasound is usually performed at approximately 6 1/2 weeks from the last menstrual period. If you have a problem before that first appointment, please call us. Once you have your appointment with your OB, you are his/her patient and need to address your questions and medical concerns with him or her.

 

For more pregnancy guidelines, please click here