Obstetric FAQs

Answers to common pregnancy questions from Winter Haven’s Leading OBYGN

Our board-certified OBGYN has provided answers to frequently asked questions concerning pregnancy. If you have more questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, call our office in Winter Haven, FL at (863) 299-1107 today!

If I have a positive home pregnancy test, am I pregnant?

Itʼs very likely you are pregnant. There are times where this test may be  falsely positive. If you do have a positive test, contact your provider.

How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?

The amount of weight gain that is recommended during pregnancy depends  on your body mass index (BMI) prior to getting pregnant. If youʼre overweight or  obese, your recommendation would be less weight gain compared to someone  with a normal BMI. If you are underweight, then your recommendation would be  more compared to someone with a normal BMI. Talk to your provider about what  is appropriate for you.

When will I feel my baby move?

Typically women start feeling movement around 20 weeks. Some people feel  movement earlier than this while others may feel it later.

When should I worry if Iʼve been trying to get pregnant, but canʼt?

If you have been actively trying for 12 months without success you should  reach out to your provider. If you are over the age of 35, you should reach out to  your provider if you have not become pregnant after 6 months of actively trying.

Iʼve had breast implants. Can I still breastfeed my baby?

Good news is, most women do not have issues due to prior breast surgery.  However, depending on the reason for the surgery and how your surgery was  performed, you may experience difficulty. A lactation specialist may be beneficial.

What are some trusted pregnancy resources?

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/pregnancy

womenshealth.gov

whattoexpect.com

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid fish that have high levels of mercury- think fish that eat other fish.  Examples would be mackerel, marlin, orange roughy, shark, big eye tuna,  swordfish, tilefish. Limit white tuna to 6oz per week. Avoid soft unpasteurized  cheese, unpasteurized milk, cold deli meats, and raw shellfish. If you have  questions about something specific, talk to your provider.

Is air travel allowed during pregnancy?

In most cases, air travel during pregnancy is safe. We recommend not flying  after 36 weeks of pregnancy. Most airlines have similar cut-offs. International  flights may have earlier cut-offs. Make sure to move your legs frequently and  take time to stand up. If you are planning a trip, talk to your provider, especially if  you have a medical or pregnancy condition.

How is my due date determined?

Your due date is determined by your last menstrual period. If you do not  know when your last menstrual period was or if you have irregular cycles, call  your provider to be seen. In these cases, your due date will be established with  an ultrasound during the first trimester. The best and most accurate dating is  established during the first trimester.

How can I tell if I am experiencing abnormal symptoms?

Listen to your body! If something feels off or just doesnʼt feel right, call your  provider and ask.

When should I call a doctor?

You should call if you have bleeding, cramping, leaking vaginal fluid,  dizziness, weakness, or headaches that donʼt get better with Tylenol, to namea  few. At the end of the day, if you have a question or feel concerned about  something, the best thing to do is call. We can help answer your questions over  the phone or bring you in if itʼs something concerning.

What types of exercise can I participate in?

Exercise during pregnancy is safe for women who are healthy and have no  medical conditions. If you have a medical condition or a complication during your  pregnancy, talk to your provider about what is safe for you. It is important to  avoid activities that can lead to injury, such as contact sports where you could  get hit in the abdomen. Make sure you are staying hydrated and not becoming  overheated. If you live a very active lifestyle prior to pregnancy, talk to your  provider because you may be able to continue this throughout your pregnancy.

What medications can I take during pregnancy?

We recommend a daily prenatal vitamin that includes folic acid. You can  start this when you are trying to get pregnant. Common medications that are  safe during pregnancy include Tylenol, stool softeners, and allergy medications.  Your provider can give you a full list of what is safe.

What should I avoid?

We recommend avoiding ibuprofen/NSAIDs unless indicted by your OBGYN. If  you have a medical condition for which you are taking medication, contact your  provider as soon as you find out you are pregnant. Your medication list will be  reviewed with you and alternatives will be recommended for medications that are  not safe during pregnancy.