Newly Pregnant Patients
Congratulations!
Deciding who to choose for your pregnancy care and childbirth is a big decision. This amazing life experience can be challenging and filled with choices! We at Women's Health Specialists appreciate your trust and look forward to guiding and supporting you during this special time.
If you're new to Women's Health Specialists, take a look at our New Patients page for important information before your first visit.
Need to make an appointment? Click the "Request Appointment" button near the top of the page, or call (920) 749-4000.
Before your visit
If you can, jot down these important pieces of data for us:
- When did your last menstrual period start?
- How long is your menstrual cycle on average? (Length from the end of one period to the start of the next)
- Do you have questions about your current prescription medication? It's helpful for us if you can bring a list of your current medications.
Pregnancy FAQs
Have any additional questions? Bring them with to your appointment, or contact us.
What are common symptoms of a new pregnancy?
Common early symptoms may include: breast tenderness and enlargement; nausea/queasiness or dislike of certain foods or smells; vomiting; fatigue, sleepiness and need for more sleep; urinary frequency; slight odd pelvic sensations such as “twinges,” dull aches or other feelings.
If nausea and vomiting (commonly known as "morning sickness") are severe, we may be able to prescribe medication to help.
Some women may notice minimal pink vaginal discharge or slight spotting in early pregnancy, or experience constipation.
Severe pain or cramping, bleeding as heavy as a menstrual period, and severe dizziness or lightheadedness are not normal. Please contact us right away, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
What should I avoid during pregnancy?
If you have tested positive or think you may be pregnant, here are some things you should try to avoid:
- Alcohol
- Smoking or vaping
- Recreational drugs
- NSAID pain relievers
- Fish high in mercury (Avoid fish like swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel; sticking to smaller fish like cod, tilapia, shrimp, and salmon)
- Unpasteurized foods
- Raw seafood and eggs
What causes a miscarriage? Can I do anything to prevent it?
In many cases, the cause of a miscarriage is unknown and unpreventable; However, there are ways to lower your risk of miscarriage, including:
- Refraining from smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs.
- Eating a healthy diet — avoid processed carbohydrates and excess sugars, lean towards nutritious whole foods and healthy fats that support your baby's growing brain.
- Avoiding toxoplasmosis, an infection that may be transmitted through infected cat feces — enlist someone else to clean your cat's litterbox, or wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly.
- Avoiding sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes, hepatitis and HIV.
Is it safe to travel during pregnancy?
Travel is generally safe for much of pregnancy. Let us know of any travel plans involving air travel or prolonged car travel after 24 weeks of pregnancy. After 34 to 35 weeks we recommend that you are within an hour of us, in the event labor begins.
Can I continue sexual activity?
Yes! Sexual activity may be continued as long as you are comfortable. Having sex will not cause a miscarriage or hurt a developing baby. Because of uterine growth and increased blood flow, sometimes sexual activity will cause some slight pink/red/brown spotting. If this is not heavy and is not accompanied by severe pain or severe cramping, it is nothing to worry about. Some conditions later on in pregnancy may carry a recommendation to avoid vaginal intercourse for the safety of the pregnancy.
Need to schedule your first appointment?
