Congratulations on your pregnancy! This packet of information will provide some general guidelines and information on different topic areas regarding pregnancy. Please take some time to read this information before your first appointment. This will allow us to focus on specific questions you might have.
Emergencies
The clinic is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. weekdays (a few of our providers may have some extended hours on some days). Nurse-staffed telephone triage is offered during the weekdays. We appreciate that routine questions be handled during the day. Our physician on call is available for your emergencies after hours through our answering service. Please call our main number at (608) 729-6300, and you will be connected with our on-call physician.
Please notify us if you experience bleeding equal to menstrual flow (especially if accompanied by menstrual-type cramping), severe and persistent sharp pain, leaking of fluid or any other immediate concerns.
Medication
All medication should be used with moderation. lf possible, avoid unnecessary medication in the first trimester. Please see the attached link for Medications in Pregnancy for common medications that are safe to use in pregnancy. Please call for any further medication concerns.
Fever
For fever greater than 100.5° F (38° C), take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and call if your fever is not responding or if you have other unusual symptoms. High fever and rapid pulse may decrease blood flow to the uterus and adequate hydration is essential.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is a parasite/disease that is spread chiefly in droppings of outside cats and tropical birds. (Acquisition during pregnancy could cause complications, although it is uncommon). Please avoid exposure and have your partner clean up after pets. Toxoplasmosis is also found in soil, rare or raw meat and seafood. Adequate hand washing is essential.
Well Water Inspection
If you are on a well system for your drinking water, we recommend and inspection be done during your pregnancy and for infants under six months. Well water should be tested for bacteria content (coliforms) and nitrates. A nitrate level of less than 10 mg./L is considered safe. Nitrate in water can change to nitrite causing a condition known as Methemoglobinemia (“b1ue baby syndrome”), an inability to carry oxygen to tissues,. To have your water tested, you can call DNR water supply at 608-275-3266.
Exposures
Notify our clinic if you have not been immunized or exposed to measles, mumps, rubella, or varicella.
Travel
Inform physician of trips after 24 weeks pregnancy. It is advisable to check with your insurance and physician for travel after 34 weeks.
Dental Care
Schedule your regular teeth cleaning with a dentist early in pregnancy. Have x-rays only if necessary with use of shielding. If dental work is needed, novocaine can be used. Avoid nitrous oxide gas and novocaine with epinephrine.
Diet
We suggest a well-rounded diet with adequate fruits and vegetables. Increased fiber and water intake will help promote good bowel function. It may help to have several small meals throughout the day versus three large meals. Limit intake of caffeine (optimally 0-3 servings per day). Avoid unpasteurized dairy products, soft cheese, and processed meats. Wash all fruits and vegetables before consumption. Calcium needs are increased during pregnancy. Three to four servings of dairy products daily is recommended. If lactose intolerant, a calcium supplement such as calcium citrate or calcium carbonate may be taken.
Pregnant women should limit consumption of shark, swordfish, tilefish and king mackerel due to concerns about mercury amounts. In addition, tuna, whether it be fresh or canned, should be limited to 6 ounces per week.
Weight gain
Appropriate nutritional intake and normal fetal growth are the most important determinants of healthy weight gain. You should expect to experience a weight gain of 25 to 30 pounds during pregnancy.
Sexuality
Intercourse is acceptable unless you are bleeding, having preterm labor, or advised by your Physician to avoid.
Exercise
Regular exercise is encouraged. Refrain from high impact aerobics and sports in the second half of your pregnancy. If you have already been exercising, please discuss guidelines with your physician. Most women can continue most activities that they are used to doing.
Bathing
Baths and showers are safe. Avoid hot tubs, sauna, or very hot baths during pregnancy due to risks of high temperatures. Please do not douche.
Deliveries
All deliveries are done at UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital. The physicians are on a rotating schedule for deliveries. One physician will cover all patients in labor or needing hospital attention for a 24-hour period of time. During your prenatal care, you will have the opportunity to meet with each physician in our practice. UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hosptial is a teaching hospital and we strongly believe in supporting our doctors-in-training so a resident physician will be assisting your attending physician during your hospital stay. A medical student may also be participating in your care.
Tours of UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital
Family tours are offered on some Wednesdays and most Sundays. Adult tours (without children) are also on Sundays and Wednesdays. Please call (608) 4l7-8446 schedule your tour. A tour of UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital is recommended if you are not taking classes through UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital or have never delivered there before.
Classes
UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital also offers several classes. You can learn more at www.unitypoint.org/madison/classes-and-events.aspx or by calling 608-417-5900.
