Backache OTC Meds/ Remedy

• Decrease lifting
• Get plenty of rest
• Maternity support hose (85 Denier strength)
• Tylenol (as directed on label)
• Use proper body mechanics
• Wear low-healed shoes

Cold/Sinus OTC Meds 

Use as directed on label:

• Actifed
• Benadryl
• Dimetapp
• Normal saline drops
• Sudafed
• Claritin
• Zyrtec

Cough OTC Meds (as directed on label)

• Chloraseptic Throat Spray
• Cough drops
• Robitussin DM or plan

Constipaton (as directed on label)

• Colace
• Dulcolax Suppositories
• Increase fiber & fluids (especially water)
• Milk of magnesia – Miralax

Diarrhea (as directed on label)

• Kaopectate
• Imodium
• Avoid dairy, sweets, & fatty foods

Edema 

• Decrease sodium in diet (salt)
• Increase water in diet
• Maternity support hose( 85 Denier strength)
• Rest on left or right full lateral positions

Heartburn

• Avoid caffeinated beverages
• Avoid fatty foods
• Avoid lying down after eating
• Eat small, frequent meals daily
• Low sodium antacids
• Pepcid
• Tums or Rolaids

Hemorrhoids

• Anusol HC Cream
• Preparation-H Ointment
• Tucks pads
• Avoid straining with bowel movements, may need stool softner

Leg Cramps-Meds/Remedy 

• Apply heat to muscles (heating pad or soak in warm bath)
• Increase calcium in diet (milk, Tums, etc.)
• Increase potassium in diet (bananas)
• Calf stretching exercises before bed

Nausea/Antiemetic-Meds/ Remedy 

• Avoid fatty foods
• Avoid lying down after eating
• Eat small, frequent meals
• Chilled beverages (sips at a time)
• Emetrol
• Dramamine tablets
• Unisom, ½ tablet and vitamin B6, 25 mg/tab

Nosebleeds

• Apply nasal pressure
• Check Hgb

Pain

• Regular strength Tylenol
• Extra strength Tylenol

 Yeast Infections

• Monistat Topical Cream- < 12 wks gestation
• Monistat Vaginal Applicators-> 12 wks gestation

Most varieties of fish are a safe and healthy choice for a pregnant woman’s diet. Some fish, such as tuna, can have high levels of contaminants that can cross the placenta and possibly harm the baby if consumed in large amounts. Eat only 1 to 2 cans of tuna per week (6 oz. can).

The effects of chemicals in a developing fetus are unknown. Avoid during the first trimester. Avoid closed in room / fumes; stay in well ventilated rooms. However, hair may not take the perm solution during pregnancy.

Stay away from strong smells and foods that make you queasy. Open windows or use an exhaust fan.

• Eat 5-6 small meals a day
• Eat a light snack prior to getting out of bed in the morning (crackers, dry cereal, toast)
• Avoid greasy and fried foods, gas forming foods, or spicy foods

Meds such as Motrin (Ibuprofen) and ASA are not recommended while pregnant. Tylenol (Acetaminophen) can be used as directed for headaches, aches and pains while pregnant.

For some women, rubbing lotion on their legs and then propping them up with pillows works well. Swimming can be a great pain reliever for back and legs. Wearing a comfortable pair of shoes and taking frequent breaks, if standing for long periods, will also help.

Muffins, popcorn, trail mix, fresh fruit, string cheese, yogurt, vegetables, low fat dips.

Caffeine passes quickly to the baby. It is recommended that you do not drink or eat foods with caffeine while pregnant or at least limit your intake to 300mg per day (2-3 servings). There is about 65-135 mg of caffeine in a cup of brewed coffee.

Tiredness / fatigue are very common during the first trimester. If this continues, check with the doctor, as this could be a sign of anemia. Be sure and take a prenatal vitamin daily and eat a well-balanced diet. In the third trimester, at the end of pregnancy, women tend to be more tired due to being uncomfortable with the growing belly and not resting well at night.

Always eat a well-balanced diet; never skip meals. Most women will gain 25-35 pounds.

You should feel free to call us with any questions or concerns and should call immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Bleeding from vagina
• Severe lasting abdominal pain
• Severe headache
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Pain or burning with urination
• Swelling of hands or face
• Fever greater than 100 F
• Water breaking or a gush from vagina
• Regular contractions

Yes, as long as there are no serious complications of pregnancy, such as bleeding, premature labor, or ruptured membranes.

Pregnant women should not handle kitty litter, change or scoop the litter box. Avoid gardening in areas where cats use as a litter box.