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What to Expect at 37 Weeks Pregnant – Third Trimester Information

What to Expect at 37 Weeks Pregnant

You are 37 weeks pregnant and your pregnancy is quickly coming to an end, but your little one still has a bit more growing to do. This week, your baby is probably gaining about a half an ounce each day, adding fat and plumping up before birth. Keep in mind that, although you are super close to your due date, your baby is still considered to be in the “early term” stage at this point. Your baby won’t be considered “full term” until week 39.

What are symptoms like at 37 weeks pregnant?

Pelvic pain or pressure. Is your baby sitting lower in your pelvis these days? This dropping — also called lightening or engagement — can occur a few weeks before your baby is born, and you might notice it if you feel a little extra pressure on your lower abdomen. This pelvic pain can even make it hard for you to walk. If pelvic pressure is causing you discomfort, a warm bath may provide some relief. Contact your healthcare provider for more advice on what to do to relieve pelvic or lower back pain.

Shortness of breath. Your baby might not have dropped yet and is pressing up against your lungs, making breathing a little more difficult. Try to rest more, move slowly and sit or stand up straight to help give your lungs more room to expand with each breath. Once your baby “drops” lower into your pelvis, this may take some pressure off your lungs and diaphragm, making it easier for you to breathe.

Nausea. Some moms-to-be experience nausea around 37 weeks pregnant, and it could be a sign that labor is about to start. Try to eat four or five smaller meals instead of three larger meals. Bland foods like rice, toast or bananas can also help get you through these bouts of nausea.

Snoring. This one might not trouble you as much as your partner. Most moms-to-be go through some breathing changes during pregnancy thanks to hormonal changes, and toward the end, some snoring is not uncommon as the mucus membranes in your nasal passages tend to dry out. Make sure you stay hydrated and use a humidifier in your bedroom.

Unstable on your feet. By now, your pregnancy weight gain means your center of gravity has shifted, making it easier for you to lose your balance. This extra weight from your baby, the placenta, amniotic fluid, and more can make it challenging to move around. Once your baby drops lower into your pelvis, the distribution of your weight may even change again, so be extra careful whenever you’re on your feet! To keep yourself steady, stand with your feet pointed in the same direction with your weight balanced evenly on both feet. Try not to tilt your pelvis forward or backward, and avoid lifting or carrying heavy or bulky items.

Contractions. At 37 weeks pregnant, you could start to feel contractions that you might recognize as being similar to menstrual cramping. Contractions that are irregular and go away when you move or change positions are likely Braxton Hicks “practice” contractions. But, if you feel contractions that occur regularly, get progressively stronger, and don’t subside if you move or change positions, you’ll want to call your healthcare provider for advice.

Practical plans for the birth

Still haven’t packed your hospital bag? Get to it! Your baby could arrive any day now.

This is also a good time to consider your support after the birth too. Who could you ask to help out every now and then?

Research your options for feeding your baby. The choice of breastfeeding or formula feeding is yours to make, but you may want to find out more about each. You can talk to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant to get more information.

If you haven’t already purchased one, you’ll need a rear-facing car seat properly installed in time for your baby’s trip home from the hospital. Make sure the car seat you buy meets all safety standards.

You may want to ask for help from trusted friends, neighbors, or family members with things like grocery shopping, laundry, or looking after your older children or family pets in the first few weeks with your newborn. Make a list of what you might need help with so that your helpers know exactly what they can do to lighten the load.

Have additional questions about the third trimester? Planning a pregnancy? Would you like to meet with Providers and Other Parents?


Join us at Delaware Valley OB-GYN’s next Birth Babies and More Event on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m.

We’ll discuss the third trimester, labor, delivery and the exciting newborn period.

RSVP HERE

October Breast Cancer Awareness: Now is the Time to Schedule Your Annual Exam!

Breast Cancer Awareness

While breast cancer awareness articles and events are everywhere. What does breast cancer mean for you as an individual? It’s a scary thought and all too many women assume that it won’t happen to them. Fact is though, every two minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the US. And – it is the most common cancer for women worldwide.

So, if you haven’t already, educate yourself in breast cancer awareness and find out your risk level. Get a medical check-up. And, if you need one, a mammogram. It might save your life.

Here are some Breast Cancer Awareness facts:

  • Female breast cancer represents 15.2% of all new cancer cases in the U.S.
  • 1 in 8 American women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.
  • Although far rarer (the risk is only 1 in 1000), an estimated 2,670 men will be diagnosed with this cancer this year.
  • The disease takes the lives of more than 40,000 American women each year and has directly or indirectly touched almost all our lives.
  • Education, fundraising and research has not resulted in a cure.

Breast Cancer Awareness: Early Signs

Early signs of breast cancer can be a lump in a breast, a painful breast or armpit or a discharge from the nipple. Even if none of these symptoms present themselves, a doctor should be visited to be sure. A doctor will most likely perform a manual exam and send you for a mammogram. A mammogram examination is painless and only takes about 10-20 minutes.

If any of these symptoms do present themselves there’s no need to panic. The pain can be a sign of a cyst or the lump can be benign. It’s always better to be sure by having a medical expert examine you.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

All women are at risk for breast cancer. Increased risk factors include a family history of cancer, atypical hyperplasia, delaying pregnancy until after age 30, no children or no breast-feeding, early menstruation (before age 12) late menopause (after age 55), current use (in the last 10 years) of oral contraceptives, more than 4 years of hormone replacement use, postmenopausal obesity, alcohol consumption, exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke, low physical activity and exposure to radiation.

These and other risk factors can have varying effects on the likelihood of developing breast cancer. It is important to remember that all risk factors are based on probabilities, and even someone without any risk factors can still get breast cancer. Proper screening and early detection remain the best weapons against mortality associated with this disease.

Scheduling an Annual Exam and Mammogram

The risk increases with age. That is why it is very important for all menopausal women to get regular mammograms.

A mammogram is a screening test which uses special X-ray images to detect abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue.

Mammography is your best defense because it can detect the disease in its early stages, before it can be felt during a breast exam. Research has shown that mammography can increase survival rates.

The American Cancer Society recommends women ages 40 to 44 should have a choice to start yearly screening mammograms if they would like. Women ages 45 to 54 should have a mammogram each year and those 55 years and over should continue getting mammograms every 1 to 2 years. You might need to start earlier if you have a family history and / or certain risk factors.

If you’ve never had a mammogram or you’re overdue, schedule an appointment with one of our women’s health experts for an evaluation.

Health Disclaimer. If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that have read on this blog or in any linked materials.

Your Teen’s First Gynecologic Visit

Your Teen’s First Gynecologic Visit

Have you considered that Summer may be the best time for your teen’s first gynecologic visit? The dog days of summer are upon us. Are you enjoying lazy days at the pool, planned family vacations or busy times with kids active in sports and other camps? Why does it seem these days fly by and before you know it, the store aisles are filled with back-to-school supplies and fall clothes?

While this is a fun-filled time for your family – this is also the perfect time to consider your teenage daughter’s first gynecologic visit with us. Our expert physicians and midwives not only have the experience necessary to care for your teen but also are sensitive to her teenage gynecologic health needs.

We’ve provided answers to frequently asked questions below. However, we’re more than happy to schedule a first-time consult with your teen to answer her questions and put her at ease. Schedule your daughter’s first GYN appointment with us HERE. We’ll get her started on a healthy and empowered pattern of female wellness.

First Gynecologic Visit for Teens FAQs

Here are helpful answers to frequently asked questions originally posted on the American College of Obstetrician’s Website.

When should I have my first gynecologic visit?

An obstetrician–gynecologist (OB-GYN) is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and certified nurse midwives (CNM”s) are registered nurses with graduate education in midwifery. OB-GYN’s and CNM’s specialize in the care of women’s health needs. Girls should have their first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 years and 15 years.

Is it normal to be nervous before the first visit?

It is normal to feel nervous about your first visit. It may help if you talk about it with your parents or someone else you trust. You may want to let your doctor / midwife know you are nervous. He or she can help put you at ease.

What should I expect at the first gynecologic visit?

The first visit may be just a talk between you and your doctor / midwife. You can find out what to expect at future visits and get information about how to stay healthy. You also may have certain exams.

Your doctor / midwife may ask a lot of questions about you and your family. Some of them may seem personal, such as questions about your menstrual period or sexual activities (including vaginal, oral, or anal sex). If you are concerned about confidentiality, you and your doctor should talk about it before you answer any questions. Much of the information you share can be kept confidential.

What exams are performed?

You may have certain exams at the first visit. If you choose, a nurse or family member may join you for any part of the exam. Most often, these exams are performed:

  • General physical exam
  • External genital exam

You usually do not need to have a pelvic exam at the first visit unless you are having problems, such as abnormal bleeding or pain. If you are sexually active, you may have tests for certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Most of the tests that teens need can be done by the doctor with a urine sample. You also may have certain vaccinations.

What happens during a general physical exam?

During the general exam, your height, weight, and blood pressure will be checked. You also will be examined for any health problems you may have.

What are the pelvic exam and Pap test?

Even though you probably will not have a pelvic exam, you should know what one is. Another test that you will have later (at age 21 years) is a Pap test. This test checks for abnormal changes in the cervix that could lead to cancer.

What are vaccinations?

Vaccinations or immunizations protect against certain diseases. The following vaccines are given to all young women aged 11–18 years on a routine basis:

  • Tetanus–diphtheria–pertussis (Tdap) booster
  • Human papillomavirus vaccine
  • Meningococcal vaccine
  • Influenza vaccine (yearly)
  • In addition to routine vaccines, special vaccines may be given to young women who are at an increased risk for certain diseases. Listed are some of these vaccines:
  • Hepatitis A virus vaccine
  • Pneumococcal vaccine

What special concerns can be discussed with my Ob-Gyn / Midwife?

Many young women share the same health concerns. Most of these concerns are a normal part of growing up:

  • Cramps and problems with menstrual periods
  • Acne
  • Weight
  • Sex and sexuality
  • Birth control
  • STIs
  • Alcohol, drugs and smoking
  • Emotional ups and downs

What can I do to stay healthy?

  • Making good lifestyle choices can help you to be strong and healthy for years to come
  • Maintain a healthy weight by eating a well-balanced diet and exercising often
  • Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs
  • Seek help if you have emotional ups and downs or feel depressed
  • Use birth control if you are having sex and do not want to have a baby
  • Protect yourself from STIs by using a latex condom. Know your partners and limit their number
  • Keep up with routine exams, tests, and immunizations

Here are some helpful terms:

  • Birth Control: Devices or medications used to prevent pregnancy
  • Cervix: The lower, narrow end of the uterus at the top of the vagina
  • Condom: A thin cover for the penis used during sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy
  • Menstrual Period: The monthly shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus
  • Midwife (CNM): A nurse with special training and education in women’s health
  • Obstetrician–Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn): A doctor with special training and education in women’s health
  • Pap Test: A test in which cells are taken from the cervix (or vagina) to look for signs of cancer
  • Pelvic Exam: A physical examination of a woman’s pelvic organs
  • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections that are spread by sexual contact
  • Speculum: An instrument used to hold open the walls of the vagina
  • Vagina: A tube-like structure surrounded by muscles. The vagina leads from the uterus to the outside of the body
  • Vulva: The external female genital area

We’re more than happy to answer your questions. Contact us today. Call 609-896-0777 or schedule a consult HERE.

 

Don’t Suffer From Excessive Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia)

Don’t Suffer From Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

If your periods are so heavy and or prolonged that they disrupt your normal daily activities, you may have excessive menstrual bleeding also known as menorrhagia. Symptoms of menorrhagia may also include cramping, pelvic pain and, in severe cases, anemia.

Excessive menstrual bleeding is a common condition that occurs for many of reasons. Two of the most common causes are a hormonal imbalance and uterine growths.

Hormonal Imbalances

Your menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. When these hormones are out of balance, they can cause heavy periods or bleeding between periods. Causes of hormonal imbalances may include:

  • Hormonal changes in teens and in women nearing menopause
  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disease
  • Obesity
  • Stress
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Anorexia (eating disorder)

Types of Uterine Growths

  • Fibroids – benign (non-cancerous) growths in or near the uterus
  • Polyps – growths that attach to the inner wall of the uterus and protrude into the uterine cavity

Treatment Options

There are medication and non-invasive treatment options available. Treatment options could include NSAIDs, oral contraceptives, oral hormones or a hormonal IUD.

You may need surgical treatment for menorrhagia if medical therapy is unsuccessful. Treatment options include:

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

During this procedure, your doctor opens (dilates) your cervix and then scrapes or suctions tissue from the lining of your uterus to reduce excessive menstrual bleeding.

Uterine Artery Embolization

For women whose menorrhagia is caused by fibroids, the goal of this procedure is to shrink any fibroids in the uterus by blocking the uterine arteries and cutting off their blood supply.

Myomectomy

This procedure involves surgical removal of uterine fibroids.

Endometrial Ablation

This procedure involves destroying (ablating) the lining of your uterus (endometrium). The procedure uses a laser, radiofrequency or heat applied to the endometrium to destroy the tissue.

Endometrial Resection

We use the Myosure procedure to remove the growth on your uterus while preserving form and function of the uterus. Both endometrial ablation and endometrial resection benefit women who have very heavy menstrual bleeding.

Hysterectomy

This surgery to remove your uterus and cervix is a permanent procedure that causes sterility and ends menstrual periods. Hysterectomy is performed under anesthesia and requires hospitalization. Additional removal of the ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy) may cause premature menopause.

Many of these surgical procedures are done on an outpatient basis. Although you may need a general anesthetic, it’s likely that you can go home later on the same day. An abdominal myomectomy or a hysterectomy usually requires a hospital stay.

For those who require a surgical procedure, traditional open GYN surgery uses larger incisions for access to the uterus and surrounding anatomy which, ultimately, results in more pain, trauma and a longer recovery process.

Minimally Invasive Robotic-Assisted GYN Surgery

Drs. Pierce, Ung and Gamburg are the Princeton area’s most experienced GYN surgeons using the da Vinci® XiTM Surgical System for minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries.

Minimally invasive procedures like robotic-assisted GYN surgery are especially promising for women who would like to have children in the future. For instance, when removing fibroids – regardless of the size and location of the fibroid – the surgeon is able to better see where they are operating and to make precise movements to remove it, preserving the delicate structures of the pelvis and decreasing the chance of future complications.

The overall benefits of robotic-assisted GYN surgery include:

  • Fewer complications
  • Less blood loss and risk of infection
  • Significantly less pain and scarring
  • Shorter recovery time for a quicker return to normal activities
  • A less invasive surgical option to get you back to your daily life

By operating with the da Vinci® XiTM Surgical System, our patients who suffer from excessive menstrual bleeding see noticeable benefits because incisions are smaller, pain is minimized and recovery time is reduced.

While clinical studies support the effectiveness of the da Vinci Xi Surgical System when used in minimally invasive surgery, individual results may vary. Surgery with the da Vinci Xi Surgical System may not be appropriate for every individual. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.

You don’t have to suffer from excessive menstrual bleeding any longer. To learn more about your treatment options, Contact Us for an Appointment HERE.

Is Choosing a Midwife Right for You?

Princeton NJ midwives discuss why you may want to chose a midwife instead

We are one of the Princeton area’s leaders in establishing a model of care using both the skills of both the midwife and those of physicians in a collaborative manner to produce the best outcomes for our patients and their families. Our midwives are highly educated and trained medical professionals who have studied and graduated from some of the most respected formal education programs in the country. They are able to be designated as Nurse Midwives only because they have successfully completed a rigorous national certification examination.

A Midwife Offers an Elevated Model of Care

Our midwives are specialists in women’s health. Alongside our physician experts and support team, they provide primary and reproductive care to women of all ages. Midwives have particular expertise in normal pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Scientific studies have shown that care under a midwife significantly decreases the risk of medical interventions, including cesarean delivery. Our midwives do an extraordinary job caring for the patients in our practice.

Midwives and Childbirth

At Delaware Valley OB/GYN, we recognize that childbirth is a natural phenomenon and that most pregnancies are healthy ones. There are some pregnancies that do need extra medical attention and care. Our midwives work collaboratively with our physicians to recognize when a patient needs that extra attention. When our physician must assume a lead role due to the degree of increased pregnancy risk status, our midwives continue to participate in physical care, counseling, guidance, teaching, and support of our patients. It is always our intention, for our midwives and physicians to apply their expertise and to work jointly when caring for women with special medical needs.

Midwives and Gynecology

Additionally, our Nurse Midwives are a great option as providers for gynecologic care. Here are five reasons to consider a Nurse Midwife for gynecologic care:

  1. Midwives Have a More Holistic Approach to Healthcare
    In general, nurse-midwives tend to have more time to answer all your questions. They can help you learn about the physical and emotional changes you experience as you prepare for your expanding family or with your general care.For those who are expecting, births overseen by CNMs usually have less intervention – such as continuous electronic fetal monitoring, epidurals, and episiotomies – often with better outcomes for women and their babies. Studies have clearly shown that women using CNMs have much lower rates of cesareans.
  1. Midwives Can Help with Family Planning 
    A CNM can be a great resource before you have children by assisting with family planning. CNMs also provide contraceptive counseling and services, including prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills, IUD insertions and removals, insertion and removal of hormone-releasing birth control implants.
  2. Certified-Midwives Are Qualified to Care for Women Long-term
    This is just like an annual exam with a gynecologist. The midwife does a complete physical exam including a vaginal exam, takes a PAP smear, breast exam and will discuss relevant health topics with you such as family care and nutrition. Many women opt for a midwife because they feel their midwife is someone who is willing to invest personal time and attention in their needs. Certified midwives can also assist women as they enter menopause and face hormonal issues.
  3. Certified Nurse-Midwives Are RNs, Have A Master’s and/or Doctoral Degree in Nursing, and National Certification and Licensure in the State in Which They Work
    This preparation qualifies them to perform examinations, order lab tests, prescribe medications, etc. So, pregnant or not, they are a great resource for overall family care. If a pregnancy occurs, you can rest assured they are trained to assist you in having the most healthy and happy pregnancy and birth that is possible. And, CNMs have relationships with physicians in case there is a high-risk situation.
  4. They Offer Access to Additional Holistic Resources 
    Another great reason to become connected with a nurse-midwife is the opportunity to tap into their network. They are often entrenched in their communities, and can offer great recommendations on other natural, holistic providers. They regularly work with massage therapists, acupuncturists, doulas and yoga therapists. Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals whether you are expecting or not.

Midwife Appointments at DelVal OB/GYN

Giving birth is one of life’s most wonderful and amazing events. The entire team at Delaware Valley OB/GYN considers it a privilege to be entrusted with assisting women in having a healthy pregnancy, birth, and newborn. You can schedule an appointment with a midwife just like scheduling an appointment with a physician at our Practice HERE. And, our midwives participate in OB call for deliveries 24/7.

This is an added dimension of choice provided to you for convenience and satisfaction.

Now Offering TeleHealth Visits

Now Offering TeleHealth Visits

Your safety during the Coronavirus crisis is our utmost concern. In order to keep you and your loved ones safe, our OBGYN doctors, midwives and fertility specialist are now live offering TeleHealth virtual visits.

Here’s how you can get started:

Telehealth appointments are made by phone. Call us during business hours at 609-896-0777 to schedule your virtual visit.

Your can also click here to send us your request online and will be back to you shortly.

You will receive an appointment confirmation for your Telehealth visit by email and/or text shortly from Otto health after your appointment is scheduled. Please click on the links to make sure your device including the speaker and microphone are working properly.
You will get another email and/or text for your Telehealth just before the appointment. Please complete the intake questions and intake forms so you will be allowed into the visit. Give yourself at least 15 minutes to be sure you are ready.

Click Join Visit and you will be connected with your doctor or midwife shortly for your Telehealth appointment.

A couple of tips to make your virtual visit a success,

  1. Be sure to confirm your Telehealth appointment, test your device and login in for your appointment well in advance.
  2. Use the right browser: Iphone (safari), Android phone (chrome), Computer (chrome, safari or firefox). Internet explorer and microsoft edge will not work.
  3. Make sure your wifi or cellular signal is strong and secure.

Dr. Bruce Pierce Interviews Dr. Robert Debbs about Covid-19 and Pregnancy

Dr. Bruce Pierce Interviews Dr. Robert Debbs about Covid-19 and Pregnancy

At Delaware Valley OBGYN, we continue to care for our obstetrical and midwifery patients during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Like everyone else, if you are pregnant or considering pregnancy in the near future, you probably want to learn more about how the coronavirus affects pregnant women and their babies.

We encourage you to listen to one of our obstetricians, Dr. Bruce Pierce, as he interviews Dr. Robert Debbs about Covid-19 and pregnancy on his popular Women’s Health Care Podcast. Dr. Debbs is the medical director of the maternal fetal medicine division at Penn Medicine Princeton Health and a professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He shares his insights about we know and do not know about pregnancy in the time of the pandemic. You may find much of it actually reassuring.

Here are some of the questions they discussed:

  • Is it safe to have my baby at the hospital?
  • Am I at higher risk for getting sick with Covid-19 if I am pregnant?
  • Is my baby at higher risk during the pandemic?
  • How is the pandemic going to change my prenatal care and my childbirth?

 

LISTEN TO PODCAST

Dr. Pierce’s Women’s Health Podcast has episodes on a number of topics in that you may want to listen to as well. You can find his other podcasts here.

As always, our OBGYNs, midwives and fertility specialists remain available to address your concerns by phone and through our web portal.

What You Need to Know About the COVID-19 Pandemic

Mercer County OBGYN doctors
As you almost certainly are aware, the coronavirus has reached us here in central New Jersey. New infections are on the rise and we expect our local hospitals in the Princeton area to soon become filled to capacity or beyond. The most important thing you can is to stay home, follow social distancing guidelines, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. You should assume that you and those around you may already be infectious.

What has changed at the office?

Our top priority is your safety and the safety of our staff members. Please do not show up at our office if you have symptoms of COVID-19 such as fevers or a cough, or have been exposed to others known to have the coronavirus. You will be screened at the front door when you show up and will turned away if you have signs or symptoms of this infection. Neither your spouse nor anyone else may join you at your visit. You can always reach our doctors and midwives by phone and the web portal (for non-urgent questions only).
Our professional societies and recent government orders have required us to cancel all non-urgent office visits and procedures. That means we have cancelled all non-emergency gynecologic visits and all fertility procedures. This will continue until the ban is lifted.
We will continue to see obstetrical patients on a limited basis with appointments spread out to ensure proper social distancing.

What about Telemedicine?

In order to continue providing care for our patients and limiting everyone’s exposure to COVID-19, we will begin to offer remote video “virtual visits.” We are finalizing the arrangements and hope to be live within the next days. We will offer pregnancy visits and gynecologic visits with our OBGYNs, as well as fertility consults with Dr. Derman.

What can I expect at the hospital?

The hospitals are the epicenters of the coronavirus crisis, and you can expect extreme precautions when you show up. You may bring one person with you and they cannot leave and return. If they have signs or symptoms of the infection, they will be turned away. Women who are not registered to deliver with us or another PMPH group or clinic will not be allowed to bring a support person.  Your doctor, midwife and nurses will be wearing extensive personal protective equipment. Although this may not be how you envisioned the birth of your child, this is absolutely necessary for your (and your baby’s) health and safety, and for those caring for you.

If I get coronavirus, is it a real danger to me or my baby?

This is a serious infection, and although pregnant women are considered a high risk group, it is not 100% clear that pregnant women are at particularly high risk. It is also very unusual for newborns to become sick even they are infected. Right now, we are not particularly concerned for pregnant women, but this is a new disease, and that could change.

Will you test me for coronavirus?

No. This is not normally within the parameters of an OBGYN practice.If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and your think you are a candidate for testing, you should reach out to your primary care doctor or call the emergency room to determine if testing or a trip to the emergency room is appropriate. If you are short of breath, you should go directly to the emergency room.

COVID-19 and Pregnancy – What You Should Know

COVID-19 and Pregnancy

Are you pregnant and concerned about the COVID-19 outbreak? The global pandemic of COVID-19, also known as the Corona or Wuhan virus, is center stage in the news and a major concern for most of us. If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, you are likely to have even more questions. Here are the answers to some of them.
Here is what we know as of 3/15/20 about the virus and fertility and pregnancy related issues.

Please note that the situation is fluid, and as we learn more about the disease these “facts” could change.

WHAT IS COVID-19?

It is a new variant of a virus that has been around for many years. It belongs to a group of viruses called coronaviruses because of their shape. This particular strain was first discovered, and likely to have been transmitted from animals to humans in the city of Wuhan, China.

WHY IS THERE A CONCERN OF ABOUT THIS PARTICULAR CORONAVIRUS?

COVID-19 like similar viruses is very contagious, much like the common cold or the flu, and unlike viruses such as HIV that are relatively difficult to spread. Based on the experience so far in Italy and China, the virus is also is likely to have a higher mortality rate than regular influenza. It is also a new virus, so none of us have immunity to it yet, and vaccines take time to develop. This is a bad combination. Still, since testing is not widespread and we don’t know how many people have it and are not sick, it is difficult to know for sure if it is really more dangerous than the common flu.

I AM PREGNANT. SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT MY OWN HEALTH?

Because of changes in the immune system during pregnancy, pregnant women are considered at higher risk for some infections. There is no evidence at this time that COVID-19 is more of a threat to pregnant women that to others.

WILL THE CORONA VIRUS AFFECT MY UNBORN BABY?

As of now, there have been no reports of transmission from mother to baby in utero. However, we do know that high maternal fevers are not good for your baby. If you have or think you have a corona virus, as your doctor would advise you for the the flu, it is important to keep your fever down with Tylenol and keep well hydrated. In the Zika virus epidemic a few years ago, birth defects were the major concern but so far there is no sign of this.

CAN I BREASTFEED IF I MIGHT HAVE CORONA VIRUS?

There have been no reports of the virus being transmitted by breast milk. However, nursing involves intimate physical contact between mother and child, and could potentially transmit the virus through skin contact and air droplets.

WHEN SHOULD I GO TO THE DOCTOR OR EMERGENCY ROOM?

The corona virus is highly contagious, and while it may not be a major threat to your own health, it can be deadly to the elderly and those with serious illnesses. You only want to go the emergency room if you are seriously ill with shortness of breath and/or high fevers. Otherwise, they will likely send you home and tell you to rest, drink plenty of fluids and take medications for the symptoms. Antiviral medications are considered experimental and generally reserved for critically ill patients.

I AM CONCERNED I MAY HAVE THE CORONA VIRUS WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Stay home and avoid contact with others. The more you are in contact with others, the more likely you are to spread the epidemic. You should plan on being at home for 2 weeks.

Take your temperatures. If you are running high fevers, 101 or higher, or have breathing issues, call your doctor and they will decide if you need to go to the hospital.

I AM SEEING THE DOCTORS AND MIDWIVES AND DELAWARE VALLEY. WILL THERE BE ANY ISSUES WITH MY APPOINTMENT?

We have not cancelled any appointments at this time but the situation is fluid and could change

You will be screened when you present to our waiting room and will not be allowed in if you are considered too high risk for Coronavirus infection in order to protect our other patients and staff. If you are running a fever and have a cough, please do not come to our office.

We are still available to you by phone. Please call us at 609-896-0777 and we can decide where and when it is best to see you.

Please do not bring your family with you to your visit until the crisis has ended. Except in very unusual circumstances, your spouse/partner will not be allowed in.

WILL THE CORONA VIRUS AFFECT MY FERTILITY?

At this time, there is no evidence that COVID-19 will affect your ability to have children. For men, high fevers have been associated with lower sperm counts, so it is important to keep the fever down with Tylenol or ibuprofen.

Birth and Babies Event – POSTPONED

Birth and Babies Event - Tuesday December 3rd

EVENT IS POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO COVID-19

 

Join us for an informal education session about third trimester changes, labor, delivery, and the newborn period! Bring all of your questions about what will happen after you’ve reached 37 weeks.

You will be joined by one or more of our providers, as well as other expecting families.

The session will begin at:
6:00pm Tuesday, March 24th
Light refreshments will be served.


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    Our Locations

    Lawrenceville Office


    2 Princess Rd Suite C, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

    Princeton Office


    8 Forrestal Rd - Suite 102 Princeton, NJ 08540

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