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Obstetrics
What may I take for a cold?
Please be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Tylenol products (cold/sinus, head congestion & flu) are safe during pregnancy for fever, body aches or headaches. In addition, Chloraseptic spray or throat lozenges may provide relief for a sore throat. Robitussin decongestant should address persistent coughing and congestion.
Please report a fever > 101 degrees to your physician.
Can I travel when I am pregnant?
Traveling is usually permitted prior to 8-9 months of pregnancy. Of course, if your pregnancy is high risk or complicated by other factors, traveling is not recommended.
What do I take for constipation?
Please drink plenty of fluids. Also increase the fiber in your diet (bran cereals, vegetables, wheat bread). Try prune juice daily. Consider adding a stool softener to your regimen (FiberCon, Colace).
Is it normal to have spotting after a vaginal exam?
Yes, spotting or pinkish discharge may occur after a vaginal exam. If your bleeding becomes a continuous flow or heavy like your cycle, please notify your physician.
How does smoking affect pregnancy?
Smoking may contribute to adverse events in pregnancy – placental changes, fetal loss, growth problems or preterm delivery. After birth, infants are at increased risk for reactive airway disease, upper respiratory infections and sudden infant death syndrome.
What is GBS?
Group Beta Streptococcus (GBS) is a bacteria that may colonize the vagina and rectum. Testing for GBS is performed at 35-36 weeks of pregnancy. A Q-tip swab is used to collect samples from the vagina and rectum.
Why is GBS important?
GBS usually does not pose a serious health problem for the pregnant mom. However, a newborn exposed to GBS may become infected. The immune system of a newborn is not ready to fight the GBS bacteria. Newborns may become seriously infected and require special care. Pregnant moms who test positive for GBS will be treated with antibiotics during labor.
When do I go to the hospital?
Please go immediately to the hospital if you experience: Vaginal bleeding like a cycle, Gush of fluid or continuous leaking of fluid from the vagina, No fetal movement after eating or drinking, Fever or chills, Persistent vomiting, Severe or persistent headache unrelieved by Tylenol or rest, Blurring of vision or double vision and Regular contractions (abdominal tightening or cramping) every 5 minutes for 1-1.5 hours.
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