We are happy to have been chosen as your healthcare provider and we are even more excited to be a part of this special time in your life. As physicians, our goal is to provide a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby. As an expecting mother, you may have several questions about safe medications, exercising, and your diet; below we have provided answers to many of those questions. Our nurses are always available to help you, don’t hesitate to call our office for assistance. Prenatal visits
After your first prenatal visit, you will have a complete exam. Then several weeks later, your obstetrical history will be evaluated.

• Prenatal visits during early pregnancy will be scheduled once a month.
• Prenatal visits in the latter part of your pregnancy will be schedule every two weeks.
• Prenatal visits in the last month of pregnancy will be scheduled once a week.

If there are complications your physician may want to see you more frequently. Testing during Pregnancy
Diet and Vitamins

• Eat well balanced diet.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Normal weight gain is between 25-30 lbs.
• Prenatal vitamins should be taken everyday after a meal.
• Drink at least three cups of milk each day to ensure you getting the needed amount of calcium or take a calcium supplement. 400mg twice daily.

Exercise
You can continue you pre-pregnancy exercise routine. If you are not physically active, walking and swimming are safe for you to begin. Just remember that you should not exercise to the point of exertion or until your “out of breath.” Things to Avoid
During your pregnancy there are several things you should AVOID for the health of you and your baby

• Alcohol, Smoking, second hand smoke
• Caffeine, Raw or undercooked meat. Soft cheese, oyster, raw eggs
• Excessive salt or sugar
• Cat feces and litter boxes
• Hot tubs and saunas
• Individuals who are sick

Medications
We get many questions concerning medications and their safety. There are several over-the-counter medications that we recommend for headaches, allergies, heartburn, nausea and other aliments. We suggest printing out a copy of the prenatal instructions that our physicians provide during a patient’s prenatal visits. Also, these brochures will provide information about call coverage and a list of warning signs and symptoms of preterm labor.