Congratulations and welcome to OB/GYN Care Orlando! We have prepared a list of FAQ with answers. However, as a general rule of thumb, always speak to your provider when in doubt.
Q: Who is going to deliver my baby?
A: Dr. Krishingner, the OB/GYN physician, will be the main provider delivering your baby. There are some instances where patients are delivered by an “on call” doctor if it is a weekend or timeframe when Dr. K is not available
Q: At which hospital does Dr. Krishingner deliver?
A: We have the privilege to deliver at Oviedo Medical Center, which is the main hospital we deliver babies at. Please feel free to visit their website https://oviedomedicalcenter.com/ for location, list of birthing classes, and overview of services offered. You can even arrange for a private tour with your personal birth designer.
Q: What medications are safe to take when pregnant?
A: You may find a partial list of medications in your folder and you should discuss this with your provider at your OB visit. It is important to notify us of any medications (prescription or over-the-counter) that you are taking. WebMD also has a helpful list of medications that are generally safe for pregnancy. Some medications are safe during certain times of pregnancy but unsafe in the first trimester or close to delivery, so remember to always check with your provider.
Q: Is exercise safe during pregnancy?
A: Pregnant women are encouraged to continue and maintain an active lifestyle during their pregnancies. However, women should not exceed the activity level they maintained before pregnancy. So if you did not run before you got pregnant, do not start now. Modifications may be needed for women who participated in regular strenuous or competitive physical activities. Also, if any activity hurts during your pregnancy, then stop. Walking, swimming and yoga are some of the best exercises for pregnant women. Remember to always hydrate yourself before, during and after exercise.
Q: Is sex safe during pregnancy?
A: Yes, as long as there are no problems with the pregnancy.
Q: How much caffeine can I have per day?
A: Caffeine is generally safe in moderation. You should keep it to one cup of coffee a day or less and there may be some benefit to limiting caffeine in the first trimester.
Q: Should I receive the flu vaccine?
A: The Center for Disease Control recommends that all women receive the vaccine for the seasonal flu. Pregnant women should NOT get the nasal form of the vaccine (Flu Mist). The attenuated inject however is safe and is recommended for all pregnant patients. The flu vaccination is protective for pregnant women and also directly protects the newborn baby up to 6 months after delivery. We do not offer the flu vaccine in our office however many local pharmacies and “walk-in” ambulatory care centers do offer the vaccine. We will be happy to give you a list or guide you in that direction.
Q: Can I color/highlight 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: What foods should I stay away from during pregnancy?
A: Pregnant women should limit the intake of albacore tuna, tuna steak, swordfish, shark and king mackerel. These fish contain high levels of contaminants that can cross the placenta which can be harmful to your baby if consumed in large amounts. The Center for Disease Control recommends you only consume soft cheese and dairy products that have been pasteurized. Hard cheese is usually pasteurized and safe. It is also recommended not to eat hot dogs, luncheon meats or deli meats unless they are properly heated. The CDC recommends canned light tuna, salmon Pollock and catfish which are low in mercury.
Q: Can I use a hot tub?
A: You should avoid hot tubs (with high temperatures) during your pregnancy.
Q: When do I need to stop traveling?
A: You should not travel on a cruise ship after 24 weeks or in an airplane after 34 weeks of pregnancy.
Q: What helps with nausea in early pregnancy?
A: Small, frequent meals, low fiber foods and hot ginger tea may ease nausea. Chewable ginger may also provide relief. Unisom (sleeping pill) and vitamin B6 (50mg) are also commonly used. Rolling out of bed rather than jumping up or eating saltine crackers prior to getting up also helps. Talk to your provider if this prevents you from keeping food or liquids down. There are prescriptions that can give significant relief.
Q: What if I experience bleeding during my pregnancy?
A: Many women experience some form of spotting or bleeding early in their pregnancy which can be normal. Spotting after intercourse, a pap smear or cervical exam is usually normal. Bleeding like a period or any persistent spotting requires medical attention.
Q: What is the normal amount of weight gain?
A: A woman should gain 25-35 lbs total during her pregnancy, more if underweight, less if overweight. She should gain 5-10 lbs in the first half of her pregnancy, then a pound a week thereafter.
Q: If something seems wrong during my pregnancy, when should I call the office?
A: Most pregnancies are normal and uncomplicated. However, it is important to report certain problems to your doctor. Call our office if you experience any of the following:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe headache not relieved by Tylenol, eating or resting
- Swelling face and hands
- Dizziness or blurred vision
- Severe pain in the abdomen
- Persistent vomiting for more than 24 hours
- Fluid trickling or gushing from the vagina
- Decreased fetal movement (baby must move 10 times within an hour period once a day in the third trimester)
- Calf pain
Q: If I think I’m in labor, what should I do?
A: If you are experiencing regular contractions, every 3- 5 minutes with increased intensity or you are having a trickling or gush of water from your vagina or bleeding, then you should go to the hospital. The nurses at the hospital will evaluate you and then they will call your doctor. Should you have any doubt, feel free to call Labor and Delivery at the hospital.