Medication Safety in Pregnancy: What Changed, What Didn’t, and How to Know the Difference
One of the most common calls we receive from pregnant patients starts the same way: “I took something before I knew. Am I okay?” The second most common: “I have a terrible cold and I don’t know what I’m allowed to take.” Both are completely valid concerns — and both deserve a real answer rather than a panicked Google search at midnight. Medication safety in pregnancy is genuinely complicated. Guidelines shift as new research emerges. The same drug may be safe in one trimester and riskier in another. And the information online ranges from overly cautious to outdated. Here’s a current, practical guide. The Trimester Timing Question The first trimester — weeks one through twelve — is the most critical period for organ development. This is when major structural birth defects can occur if embryonic development is disrupted, which is why medication avoidance is most important during these weeks. Many providers recommend limiting medications to what’s truly necessary until the end of the first trimester. The second trimester generally has a more favorable safety profile for common medications. However, this is also when some medications become riskier that were acceptable earlier — NSAIDs are the clearest example. After 20 weeks, ibuprofen and naproxen (common anti-inflammatory pain relievers) should be avoided. Research has linked NSAID use in the second half of pregnancy to reduced amniotic fluid, kidney problems in the developing baby, and premature closure of a fetal blood vessel. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) remains the appropriate option for pain and fever throughout pregnancy. What’s Safe for Common Complaints For pain and fever: Acetaminophen is safe throughout pregnancy at recommended doses. Avoid ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin unless specifically directed by your provider. For allergies and colds: Saline nasal spray and rinses are safe at any point and more effective than many people realize. Loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) have good safety data and are generally considered acceptable throughout pregnancy. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is safe but causes drowsiness. Pseudoephedrine should be avoided in the first trimester and used cautiously later only with provider guidance. For products like Zicam: Zicam nasal spray should be avoided in pregnancy. Oral zinc lozenges are lower risk but should be monitored for total zinc intake — your prenatal vitamin already contains zinc, and combined intake should stay under 40mg daily. Saline rinses, rest, hydration, and acetaminophen for fever are safer and effective alternatives for cold symptoms. For heartburn: Calcium carbonate antacids (Tums, Rolaids) are safe. Famotidine (Pepcid) is acceptable. Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole are generally used when other options don’t provide relief. For constipation: Fiber supplements and Colace (docusate) are safe. MiraLAX is generally acceptable. Avoid castor oil, which can trigger uterine contractions. What to Do If You Took Something Before You Knew Don’t panic. Very early in pregnancy — before implantation and in the first days after — there’s an “all or nothing” effect where exposures either cause no effect or affect the pregnancy entirely. Most common medication exposures in early pregnancy cause no harm. Bring a list of everything you’ve taken to your first prenatal appointment and review it with your provider. In the vast majority of cases, the answer is reassuring. Prescription Medications: Don’t Stop Without Guidance If you take medication for a chronic condition — thyroid disease, asthma, depression, epilepsy, high blood pressure — do not stop it when you learn you’re pregnant without speaking to your provider first. Uncontrolled chronic conditions are often riskier to a pregnancy than the medications used to treat them. Your provider can assess whether your current regimen is appropriate or whether adjustments should be made. The same applies to antidepressants. Untreated depression and anxiety during pregnancy carry real risks. The decision about whether to continue, adjust, or switch medications should be made thoughtfully with your provider — not made unilaterally out of fear. When in doubt about any medication during pregnancy, call before you take it. That’s always the right call. Schedule a prenatal appointment to discuss medication safety, review your current regimen, and get personalized guidance for your specific situation and trimester. Sources
Preconception Planning in Spring: The Best Time to Prepare Your Body
Spring has a way of making people think about new beginnings. If starting a family is on your mind this year, you’re probably focused on ovulation tracking apps and prenatal vitamins. Those things matter — but the most important step most women overlook is a preconception visit before they start trying. The three months before conception are one of the most influential windows in a future pregnancy. What you do — and don’t do — during this time affects egg quality, early fetal development, and your body’s readiness for the demands ahead. Here’s what actually matters. Start With a Preconception Visit A preconception checkup is different from a routine annual exam. Your provider will review your health history, assess any chronic conditions, evaluate medications that may need to be switched to pregnancy-safe alternatives, and make sure your vaccinations are current. Some vaccines require a waiting period before you can safely try to conceive, so timing matters. Blood work at this visit typically checks for anemia, thyroid function, immunity to rubella and chickenpox, and blood sugar. If you or your partner have a family history of genetic conditions, this is also the time to discuss carrier screening. Don’t wait until you’re already trying to schedule this visit. Many of the adjustments that make the biggest difference — starting folic acid, switching medications, treating an undiagnosed thyroid issue — need several weeks to take effect. Folic Acid: Start Now, Not After a Positive Test Neural tube defects occur in the first 28 days of pregnancy, often before a woman knows she’s pregnant. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends beginning folic acid supplementation — at least 400 to 800 mcg daily — at least one month before trying to conceive, and ideally three months ahead. A prenatal vitamin with adequate folic acid is the simplest way to cover this. Start taking one now, regardless of how soon you plan to begin trying. What to Eat, What to Limit Fertility nutrition isn’t about a strict diet — it’s about consistency. Focus on leafy greens, colorful vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Limit caffeine to under 200mg daily (roughly one 12-ounce coffee). Cut back on alcohol; no amount is proven safe during the conception window or early pregnancy. High-mercury fish — shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish — should be avoided both during pregnancy and when trying to conceive. Salmon, sardines, and shrimp are low-mercury options with beneficial omega-3s that support hormone production. Address Lifestyle Factors That Affect Fertility Moderate exercise improves fertility outcomes. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days — walking, swimming, cycling, yoga. Very high-intensity training can disrupt ovulation in some women, so balance is important if you train heavily. If you smoke, quitting is the single most impactful change you can make before trying to conceive. Smoking damages eggs, reduces fertility, and significantly increases miscarriage risk. Your provider can connect you with cessation resources. Chronic stress disrupts hormonal signaling and can affect cycle regularity. Spring is a natural moment to evaluate what’s draining your energy and build in more restoration — not as a luxury, but as part of your preconception plan. Understanding Your Cycle Start tracking your menstrual cycle now if you aren’t already. Note cycle length, any spotting, and changes in cervical mucus. This data helps you identify your fertile window, flags potential irregularities worth discussing with your provider, and gives baseline information that’s useful if conception takes longer than expected. If your cycles are irregular or you’ve had prior pregnancy losses, mention this at your preconception visit rather than waiting to see what happens. The Bottom Line Preconception planning isn’t about perfection — it’s about giving yourself the best possible foundation before you begin. A single visit, a prenatal vitamin, and a few consistent habits can make a meaningful difference. Spring is a good time to begin. Schedule a preconception consultation to review your health, address any concerns, and create a personalized roadmap for your path to pregnancy. Sources
Preparing Your Body for Pregnancy: A Pre-Conception Checklist
You’ve decided you’re ready to start trying for a baby. The excitement is real—but before you toss the birth control, there’s important preparation that can dramatically improve your chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy. Preconception health isn’t just about stopping contraception and hoping for the best. The three months before conception are crucial for optimizing your body and reducing risks. Think of it as creating the healthiest possible environment before your baby even begins to develop. Start With a Preconception Visit Schedule a checkup before you start trying to conceive. This visit is different from a regular exam and should include: Health History Review: Your provider will assess chronic conditions (diabetes, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure), past pregnancy complications, family history of genetic conditions, and current medications that may need adjustment. Essential Screenings: Medication Review: Some medications aren’t safe during pregnancy. If you take medications for chronic conditions, your provider may switch you to pregnancy-safe alternatives before you conceive. Don’t stop any prescription medications without medical guidance. Optimize Your Nutrition What you eat in the months before conception affects egg quality, fertility, and early fetal development. Start Prenatal Vitamins Now: Begin taking prenatal vitamins with at least 400-800 mcg of folic acid three months before trying to conceive. Folic acid taken before and during early pregnancy dramatically reduces neural tube defects. Focus on Fertility-Friendly Foods: What to Limit: Achieve a Healthy Weight Both underweight and overweight status can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes. If your BMI is outside the healthy range, work with your provider on a safe plan to reach a healthier weight before conception. Even a 5-10 percent weight loss can significantly improve fertility for women who are overweight. Similarly, gaining weight if you’re underweight can restore regular ovulation. Address Lifestyle Factors Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise improves fertility and prepares your body for pregnancy. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. However, excessive high-intensity exercise can disrupt ovulation, so balance is key. Quit Smoking: Smoking damages eggs, reduces fertility, and increases miscarriage risk. If you smoke, quitting should be your top preconception priority. Secondhand smoke exposure should also be minimized. Limit Environmental Toxins: Reduce exposure to pesticides, cleaning chemicals, and other toxins when possible. Switch to natural cleaning products and eat organic when feasible, especially for produce high in pesticides. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt ovulation. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular relaxation time into your routine. Update Vaccinations Certain infections during pregnancy can cause serious complications. Ensure you’re current on: Some vaccines require you to wait one to three months before trying to conceive, so schedule this checkup early. Understand Your Cycle Start tracking your menstrual cycle to identify your fertile window. This helps you time intercourse optimally and alerts you to potential issues. Track: Apps can help, but nothing replaces awareness of your body’s natural signs. Screen for Genetic Conditions If you have a family history of genetic disorders, or you and your partner share certain ethnic backgrounds with higher risks for specific conditions, consider genetic carrier screening. This simple blood test can identify if you’re carriers for conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or Tay-Sachs disease. The Male Factor Preconception health isn’t just about the woman. Your partner should also: Set Realistic Expectations Understanding normal fertility timelines reduces anxiety: Start Your Journey Right Taking these preconception steps significantly improves your chances of conceiving quickly and having a healthy pregnancy. It’s not about perfection—it’s about giving your future baby the best possible start. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, our preconception counseling provides personalized guidance based on your unique health history. We’ll help you optimize your health, address any concerns, and create a roadmap for your path to parenthood. Schedule your preconception consultation today and start your pregnancy journey with confidence. References:
Spring Allergies During Pregnancy: Safe Relief and When to Worry
The spring wildflowers are blooming across Texas, and so are your allergies. Your eyes are watering, your nose won’t stop running, and you’re sneezing constantly. Normally, you’d reach for your trusty allergy medication. But now you’re pregnant, and suddenly everything feels complicated. Spring allergies during pregnancy present a double challenge: your symptoms may actually worsen due to hormonal changes, yet many of your usual remedies are off-limits or questionable. Understanding what’s safe can help you breathe easier—literally. Why Allergies Worsen During Pregnancy If your allergies seem more intense this spring, you’re not imagining it. Pregnancy hormones increase blood flow throughout your body, including to the mucous membranes in your nose. This can cause nasal congestion even without allergies, a condition called pregnancy rhinitis. When you add seasonal allergies to the mix, the result can be miserable. Additionally, about one-third of pregnant women experience worsening of their pre-existing allergies, while another third see improvement, and the final third notice no change. Safe Allergy Relief Options The good news: several effective allergy treatments are considered safe during pregnancy. First-Line Defenses: Safe Medications: According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, several antihistamines have good safety data during pregnancy: What to Avoid: Natural Approaches That Help Beyond medication, several natural strategies can reduce symptoms: When Allergies Signal Something More While most spring allergies are merely uncomfortable, certain symptoms warrant immediate attention: These could indicate a sinus infection, asthma exacerbation, or other conditions requiring prescription treatment. Untreated respiratory infections during pregnancy can lead to complications, so don’t hesitate to call your provider. Planning Ahead for Next Spring If this spring’s allergies have been particularly rough, talk to your provider about prevention strategies before next allergy season. Starting antihistamines a week or two before symptoms typically begin can help reduce severity. Additionally, working with an allergist to identify your specific triggers can help you avoid them more effectively. Get Personalized Guidance Every pregnancy is unique, and your allergy treatment plan should be too. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we can review your specific symptoms, health history, and trimester to recommend the safest, most effective relief options for you. Don’t suffer through another spring day unable to breathe. Schedule a consultation today and get personalized guidance for managing your allergies safely throughout your pregnancy. References:
Choosing the Right Birth Control: A Complete Guide to Your Options in 2026
At 32, Elena was thriving. Her career in Dallas was demanding, her social life was active, and she wasn’t ready to start a family just yet. She had been on the same birth control pill since college, but lately, she was struggling. Between back-to-back meetings and evening events, she frequently missed her daily dose, leading to breakthrough bleeding and constant anxiety about a potential unplanned pregnancy. “There has to be a better way,” she told her doctor. “Something that fits my life now, not the life I had ten years ago.” Choosing birth control is no longer a one-size-fits-all decision. In 2026, the landscape of reproductive health offers more precision, fewer side effects, and higher convenience than ever before. Whether you are looking for long-term protection, hormone-free options, or a method that helps manage heavy periods, finding the right fit is about aligning your choice with your current lifestyle and health goals. Understanding Your Options in 2026 The “best” birth control is the one you can use consistently and correctly. Today, we categorize options based on how they work and how often you need to think about them. Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) These are “set it and forget it” methods. They are over 99% effective because they eliminate the possibility of human error. Short-Acting Hormonal Methods These require more frequent action but offer flexibility if you plan to become pregnant in the near future. Newer and Non-Hormonal Innovations Factors to Consider When Choosing Feature LARC (IUD/Implant) Daily Pill Non-Hormonal (Copper IUD/Gel) Effort Level Very Low High (Daily) Low to Medium Hormones Yes (except Copper) Yes No Period Impact Usually lightens Regulates May increase flow (Copper) Reversibility Immediate after removal Immediate Immediate Managing Side Effects Many women worry about weight gain, mood swings, or decreased libido. While everyone reacts differently, modern options provide more ways to troubleshoot: When to Consult Your Provider You should schedule a dedicated contraceptive counseling appointment if: Find Your Perfect Fit Birth control is a personal tool for empowerment. It should support your health, not complicate your life. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we take a personalized approach, looking at your medical history, lifestyle, and future family planning to find the method that feels right for you. Schedule a consultation today to explore the 2026 birth control options and find the protection that fits your life.
Pregnancy Medication Safety: What You Really Need to Know About OTC Drugs
When Sarah found out she was pregnant with her second child, she thought she knew the drill. She’d been through this before. But at her first prenatal appointment, her doctor asked about all her medications—including over-the-counter ones. Sarah rattled off her daily routine: prenatal vitamin, allergy medication, occasional ibuprofen for headaches, antacids for heartburn, and her asthma inhaler. Her doctor stopped her at ibuprofen. “We need to switch you off that immediately,” she said. Sarah was confused—she’d taken it during her first pregnancy without issue. What she didn’t know was that new research had emerged about NSAIDs after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and the safety guidelines had changed. Medication safety during pregnancy is one of the most confusing aspects of prenatal care. Guidelines change as new research emerges, the same medication might be safe in one trimester but risky in another, and the line between “safe” and “avoid” isn’t always clear. Understanding Pregnancy Safety Categories For decades, the FDA used a letter-based system (A, B, C, D, X) to categorize medication safety during pregnancy. In 2015, the FDA replaced this system with narrative summaries that provide more detailed risk information and context about timing. Medications to Absolutely Avoid During Pregnancy Common OTC Medications: What’s Safe For Pain and Fever: For Colds and Allergies: For Heartburn: For Constipation: What About Zicam? Zicam Nasal Products: Zicam Oral Products (Lozenges): Better alternatives: Prescription Medications Safe Antibiotics: Asthma Medications: Antidepressants: Thyroid Medications: Timing Matters: Risk by Trimester First Trimester (Weeks 1-12): Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27): Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40): Making Smart Decisions What If You Took Something Before Knowing You Were Pregnant? Don’t panic. The “all-or-nothing” principle applies very early in pregnancy. Tell your provider at your first visit—many exposures cause no problems. Resources for Checking Safety MotherToBaby: The Bottom Line At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we’re here to answer your medication questions at every stage of pregnancy. Whether you’re dealing with a cold, managing a chronic condition, or just want to double-check if something’s safe, we’re a phone call away. Schedule your prenatal consultation today and get personalized guidance on medication safety throughout your pregnancy. References:
Can I Take Zicam While Pregnant? Your Guide to Safe Cold Relief This Winter
Lauren stood in the pharmacy aisle at 11 PM, seven months pregnant and desperate for relief. Her head throbbed, her nose was completely blocked, and she’d been awake for three nights straight. She reached for the Zicam she’d always used before pregnancy, then pulled out her phone to search “can I take Zicam while pregnant?” The results were confusing and contradictory. Exhausted and frustrated, she left empty-handed, still suffering. If you’re pregnant and fighting a winter cold, you’re probably discovering that your usual go-to remedies are suddenly off-limits or questionable. With your immune system naturally suppressed to protect your growing baby, you’re more vulnerable to catching every bug that goes around. Understanding which medications are safe can help you find relief without the worry.Is Zicam Safe During Pregnancy? The short answer is: it depends on which Zicam product you’re considering. Zicam products contain zinc, an essential mineral that’s generally considered safe during pregnancy in appropriate amounts. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), zinc is important for fetal development, and many prenatal vitamins include it. However, not all Zicam formulations are created equal: Understanding Cold Remedies by Trimester Your provider’s recommendations may vary depending on how far along you are: Safe Cold Relief Options for Pregnancy Here are evidence-based remedies that most providers consider safe: For Congestion: For Cough: For Fever and Body Aches: For Sore Throat: What to Avoid During Pregnancy These common cold remedies should be avoided: NSAIDs:Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can cause complications, especially after 20 weeks of pregnancy. They’ve been linked to low amniotic fluid and potential heart problems in the baby. Aspirin:Regular use of aspirin should be avoided unless specifically prescribed by your provider for certain pregnancy complications. Multi-Symptom Formulations:Products like NyQuil or Theraflu often contain multiple active ingredients, including ones to avoid during pregnancy. They may also contain alcohol. Stick to single-ingredient products approved by your provider. Herbal Supplements:“Natural” doesn’t mean safe during pregnancy. Many herbs can trigger contractions or cause other complications. Avoid echinacea, goldenseal, and other immune-boosting herbs without medical approval. Phenylephrine:This decongestant found in many cold medicines has questionable effectiveness and safety data during pregnancy. Natural Immunity Boosters That Actually Work Prevention is always better than treatment: Hydration:Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily. Proper hydration helps thin mucus, supports immune function, and keeps your respiratory system functioning optimally. Add lemon or cucumber for flavor if plain water is unappealing. Quality Sleep:Aim for eight to ten hours nightly. Your immune system does much of its repair work during sleep. If nighttime sleep is disrupted, take short naps during the day. Vitamin C:Get it from food sources like oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. While vitamin C won’t prevent colds, it may reduce duration and severity. Vitamin D:Many pregnant women are deficient in vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in immune function. Ask your provider about testing and supplementation. Prenatal Vitamins:Take them consistently. They provide immune-supporting nutrients like zinc, vitamin C, iron, and folate. Hand Hygiene:Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after being in public spaces. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available. Avoid Sick People:This sounds obvious, but don’t feel guilty about skipping gatherings or asking sick visitors to reschedule. Your health and your baby’s wellbeing come first. When to Call Your Healthcare Provider Most colds resolve on their own within seven to ten days, but contact your provider if you experience: These symptoms could indicate flu, strep throat, pneumonia, sinus infection, or other conditions requiring prescription treatment. The Importance of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccination The single most effective way to prevent serious illness during pregnancy is vaccination: Flu Shot:Safe during any trimester, the flu vaccine protects both you and your baby. Pregnant women who get the flu are at higher risk for hospitalization and complications. Antibodies you develop are passed to your baby, providing protection for their first several months of life. COVID-19 Vaccine:Current CDC recommendations support COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. Pregnant women who contract COVID-19 are at increased risk for severe illness, preterm birth, and other complications. Tdap Vaccine:Given between 27 and 36 weeks, this vaccine protects your baby from whooping cough, which can be deadly for newborns. Creating Your Cold-Season Action Plan Start the new year with a prevention strategy: Get Personalized Guidance Every pregnancy is unique, and your health history may affect which cold remedies are safe for you. Conditions like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or a history of preterm labor can influence your provider’s recommendations. Don’t suffer through a cold in silence or second-guess yourself in the pharmacy aisle. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we’re here to answer your medication safety questions and provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your pregnancy. Whether you’re dealing with a winter cold right now or want to discuss prevention strategies, our team is ready to support you through every season of your pregnancy journey. Schedule a consultation today and start the new year with a clear plan for staying healthy and safe. References: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (n.d.). Over-the-Counter Medications and Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Medications and Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Zinc Supplementation During Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov
When to Take a Pregnancy Test: Signs, Timing, and Next Steps
Emma had just returned from a long business trip, juggling meetings, deadlines, and travel stress. Back home, she noticed her routine was slightly off. Her period hadn’t arrived, and she felt more tired than usual. She wondered: Am I pregnant or just exhausted from work? Knowing when and how to take a pregnancy test can make all the difference. Acting at the right time, recognizing subtle signs, and accessing trusted guidance helps you move forward confidently. Early Signs of Pregnancy While each woman’s experience is unique, some early indicators are common: Recognizing these signs early, like Emma did, can help you take the next step with confidence. Timing Your Test for Accuracy Testing too early can produce false negatives. Waiting a few days after a missed period and/or confirming with a professional ensures accuracy. Next Steps After a Positive Test Reverse Pregnancy Calculator: Personalized Guidance Emma used a Reverse Pregnancy Calculator to better understand her timing, estimate conception dates, and track early milestones. It’s a simple tool designed to provide clarity and support, so you can take the next step with confidence. Try the Pregnancy Calculator Now Conclusion Whether you’re juggling a busy career, travel, or life’s daily demands, understanding your body’s signals is critical. Like Emma, noticing early signs and accessing expert guidance ensures you can act with confidence. Women’s Integrated Health is here to guide you every step of the way, from testing to your first prenatal visit. Schedule Your Appointment.
Your Breech Baby
Our Southlake, Fort Worth ObGyns explain what happens when you carry a breech baby You’re ready to give birth, and you feel like you’re prepared — until your ObGyn tells you that you have a breech baby. For a vaginal birth, the baby is ideally positioned head down, but 3 to 4 percent of pregnancies involve a breech baby. During the last weeks of pregnancy, if the baby is positioned buttocks, feet or both first instead of head down, we call it a breech presentation. Breech Positions Defined Every breech baby doesn’t present in the same position. Your breech baby may be in one of three breech positions. Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns may refer to your breech baby in these ways. When the baby presents bottom down first and has bent knees, this is a complete breech. If the baby stretches his or her legs out toward the head, we call it a frank breech. When the baby is positioned with one leg hanging down, we call it a footling or incomplete breech. Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns may discover your breech presentation during a pelvic examination or when they are feeling your belly. If so, they will order an ultrasound to confirm their suspicions. Can My Breech Baby Be Repositioned? We might be able to turn a breech baby using external cephalic version, or turning the baby. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, more than 50 percent of the time, turning a breech baby baby works; however, some babies may turn back into the breech position after the procedure. If you still have a breech position after week 36, we may try to turn the baby. This procedure should be done where a delivery room is easily accessible in the rare case that any problems occur. During the procedure, your ObGyn will use her hands to apply firm pressure to the abdomen to get the baby to rotate to a head-down position. During this process, we use an ultrasound to guide us, and we monitor the baby’s heart. Not every mother with a breech baby will qualify to have an external cephalic version. We do not attempt this with a mother carrying multiples. What Are My Delivery Options for a Breech Baby? If your baby has not turned head down, you will probably need a C-section. This is usually the safest way to deliver a breech baby for the sake of both mother and baby. Talk to our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns if you have concerns about a C-section. We are highly experienced in performing the procedure. For more information about pregnancy and birth, contact us for an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding
We answer some of your most-common questions about breastfeeding. No doubt, you’ve heard many opinions about breastfeeding through the years, but how is breastfeeding actually beneficial for mom and baby? Here are a few of the questions we hear most frequently from new moms when it comes to breastfeeding. Why is Breastfeeding Important? Your breast milk is truly special because it contains the perfect amount of minerals, sugar, protein and water that a baby needs for growth and development. It also contains DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and other fatty acids that researchers believe are important for your baby’s brain and eyes as they develop. How Long Should I Breastfeed? Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns recommend that mothers breastfeed their babies during the first six months of life. Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and baby. However, even if you are only able to breastfeed for a short period of time, you will provide healthy benefits to your baby. What Are The Benefits of Breastfeeding? The CDC states that infants who are breastfed have a lower risk of several health issues including: Asthma Obesity Type 1 diabetes Ear infections Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Gastrointestinal infections (diarrhea/vomiting) While mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing: Breast cancer Ovarian cancer Type 2 diabetes High blood pressure When Will My Milk Come In? Milk production begins in the second trimester of pregnancy. Your body begins making colostrum, a special milk that’s full of essential nutrients and is easy for newborns to digest. Your milk supply will increase about 30 to 40 hours after you’ve delivered your placenta. By then, the change in your hormones has signaled to your body that it’s time to feed your baby. Breastfeeding Benefits Recap Breastfeeding is beneficial for both mother and baby. Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns know that you may have questions and concerns, and we’re here to help. We deliver babies at Baylor Regional Medical Center at Grapevine, which offers breastfeeding classes to help moms-to-be prepare. La Leche League is also a good resource.
