☤PLEASE READ | Important CDC guidelines regarding the H1N1 (Swine Flu) and Pregnancy.

Most of these questions and more are answered in the OB Package.

Q: Can I color my hair?
A: No known studies have been done on this topic; however, doctors recommend pregnant women wait until their second trimester (at least 12 weeks) before coloring their hair.

Q: Can I get my nails done?
A:No known studies have been done on this topic.

Q: Can I take medications for headaches??
A: Most headache medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, along with most prescription migraine drugs, are not recommended. Consult your doctor if you are prone to migraines.

Q: How much can my daily caffeine intake be?
A: You should limit your caffeine intake to one cup per day.

Q: If I develop diabetes during pregnancy, will I have it forever?
A: Studies show a 50% chance of developing diabetes permanently within 10 years of developing diabetes during pregnancy. Be sure to have your blood checked once each year with your primary care physician.

Q: Are you able to determine if I will need a c-section ahead of time?
A: Doctors may be able to determine in advance that you need a c-section if you previously had a c-section or certain uterine surgeries.

Q: If my water broke with previous pregnancies, is that an indicator that it will always break?
A: All pregnancies are different.

Q: If something seems wrong during my pregnancy, when should I call the office?
A:Most pregnancies are normal and uncomplicated. However, it’s important to report certain problems to your physician. If you have a medical emergency call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. If you believe your water has broken, go to Norman Regional Hospital's Labor and Delivery and your physicians will be notified. Otherwise call the office if you experience any of the following:
* Medium to heavy vaginal bleeding
* Severe, continuous headache that is not relieved by Tylenol, eating, or resting
* Swelling of the face and hands
* Dizziness or blurred vision
* Severe pain in the abdomen
* Persistent vomiting for more than 24 hours
* Decreased fetal movement (Less than10 movements within 2 hours.)

Q: What should I do when my water breaks?
A: Go to Norman Regional Hospital's Labor and Delivery unit and your physician will be notified.

Q: When do I need to stop traveling?
A: You should not travel on a cruise after 24 weeks or in an airplane after 34 weeks of pregnancy.

Q: When will I be able to tell the gender of my baby?
A: An ultrasound to monitor the health of your baby is usually ordered between 18 to 20 weeks. In most cases, the physician can determine the gender of your baby from this ultrasound.

Q: When will I start to feel my baby move?
A: Women can usually feel their baby move around 22 weeks, although some feel the baby earlier and some later.

If you have any other general pregnancy questions be sure to remember to ask your physicians at one of your prenatal appointments or call the nurse during business hours.