FAQs

What medications are safe or not safe during pregnancy?

IMPORTANT: If you are unsure about a medication that is not listed below, have questions about a medication, or if you are presently taking any prescription or non-prescription medication (not discussed here), PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE AND SPEAK WITH A NURSE OR PRACTITIONER.

The following medications ARE allowed anytime during pregnancy:

• Antacids: Maalox, Mylanta, Tums and Pepcid
• Antibiotics: Amoxicillin, Erythromycin, Penicillin, and Zithromax
• Novacaine
• Cough preparations: Robitussin DM, Triaminic
• Cough drops
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) in accordance with the directions provided on the label

What should do if I have spotting or bleeding?

If you have any bleeding, with or without cramping, please call our office for further evaluation.  Pink or brown spotting or even heavier bleeding may occur during the first three months in any pregnancy. This is sometimes caused by implantation or by irritation of the cervix after sexual relations.

Should I receive a flu and COVID vaccine?

We strongly encourage pregnant and lactating women to stay current with flu and COVID-19 vaccines as recommended by the CDC and if not contraindicated.  If you have any qusetions about your particular circumstances, we encourage you to speak with your provider. 

Where can I get prenatal vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins are available by prescription (recommended) or over the counter. You can fill your prescription at your pharmacy and take them throughout your pregnancy. If you need a refill on a vitamin prescription, please call your pharmacy.

How should I take my prenatal vitamin?

It is recommended that vitamins be taken 1-2 hours after a meal. For best absorption, it is best not to take vitamins with calcium rich foods.

How can I reduce nausea and maintain a healthy diet?

It is important that you give your baby an excellent start by eating a well balanced diet. If you are experiencing nausea and/or vomiting, we suggest that you eat small, frequent meals and increase your protein intake. Vitamin B-6 supplements of 25-50 mgs (available over the counter) can be taken each day; this may help reduce nausea/vomiting. NOTE: If you are unable to hold down anything in a 24-hour period, please notify us.

Can I exercise during pregnancy?

Walking, swimming, stationary bike riding, or prenatal yoga are our preferred choices of exercise. If you are accustomed to a more rigorous exercise program, please discuss this with your practitioner at your first visit.

Should I avoid alcohol, caffeine, marijuana, and tobacco product?

Avoid all alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco throughout your pregnancy.  Products containing caffeine should be used in moderation.

What should I do about my eye and dental care during pregnancy?

Women should continue with their routine dental and eye care during pregnancy.

Should I contact BOGG for all medical issues during pregnancy?

For illnesses not related to the pregnancy such as respiratory or ear infections please contact your primary care provider (PCP).

When will I hear the baby’s heartbeat?

We routinely listen for the baby's heartbeat at your obstetrical physical appointment around 12 weeks gestation although it may not be audible at that point in your gestation.  Thereafter, we check the heartbeat at each routine visit.   

When will I know the sex of my baby?

It is up to you if you would like us to share our interpretation of the sex of your baby. This is usually possible at your 20 week fetal ultrasound scan. 

Can my partner or another support person come with me to my appointments?

Absolutely! (Please check with the office for any restrictions that may be in place due to COVID-19 or other health emergencies).   

Do your practitioners perform C-Sections?

Our obstetricians perform cesarean sections when medically necessary. 

Do your practitioners perform home births?

We do not perform home births.  We perform deliveries at Baystate Medical Center and will support your personal decisions throughout your labor and delivery with experienced medical guidance.  The labor and delivery unit at Baystate Medical Center offers excellent personalized facilities, specialists when needed, and the area's best Neonatal Intensive Care Unit if necessary. 

Can I have an ultrasound appointment to see my baby?

Our ultrasound appointments are for medical purposes only.  We do not offer separate non-medically oriented ultrasound appointments to obtain images of your baby.  

Our staff is here to address your personal needs.  If you have additional concerns or questions, please contact our office!