Congratulations on your pregnancy! We are honored that you have chosen our Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) team to care for you during this important time.
Our group OB/GYN physicians specializes in comprehensive women’s health, including prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, and delivery care. Our goal is to provide personalized, compassionate care while supporting you through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery.
Together, we are committed to providing safe, evidence-based care and helping you feel informed and confident throughout your pregnancy journey.
Our Team
Routine Prenatal Care Schedule
Visits are typically every 4 weeks until 28 weeks, every 2 weeks from 28 to 36 weeks, and then weekly until delivery. If your pregnancy is higher risk (for example, high blood pressure or gestational diabetes), you may need additional testing or more frequent visits.
Prenatal Testing & Ultrasound Timeline
| Pregnancy Stage | What Happens at This Visit |
| 8-12 weeks | First prenatal visit Routine prenatal labs Optional genetic testing (NIPT, carrier screening) First-trimester ultrasound if indicated |
| 20 weeks | Anatomy ultrasound to assess baby’s growth and development |
| 24-28 weeks | CBC (blood count) 1-hour glucose screening for gestational diabetes Rhogam (if Rh-negative, typically around 28 weeks) HIV, Hep B, Syphilis testing |
| 35-37 weeks | Group B Strep (GBS) swab Check baby’s position |
At every prenatal visit: We will check your blood pressure and urine every visit to screen for pre-eclampsia.
Vaccines Recommended in Pregnancy
Tdap: Recommended between 27–36 weeks in every pregnancy to protect your newborn from whooping cough. We recommend anyone who will be caring for your infant to have a Tdap “booster” vaccine if they haven’t had one in the last 10 years. Whooping cough especially is becoming more prevalent in the community, and the only way to protect your baby initially is for others around him/her be vaccinated.
Flu vaccine: Recommended during any trimester if you are pregnant during flu season.
COVID-19 vaccine: Recommended during pregnancy to reduce the risk of severe illness.
RSV vaccine: During RSV season, patients who are 32–36 weeks pregnant may be eligible for the maternal RSV vaccine to help protect newborns during their first few months of life.
Gestational Diabetes Testing
We screen for gestational diabetes between 24–28 weeks because early detection helps keep both you and your baby healthy.
1-hour glucose screening
This is the most common test. You drink a measured glucose drink and have your blood drawn 1 hour later. Fasting is not required, but avoiding very sugary foods or drinks beforehand can help prevent false elevations.
Drink options
We offer the standard Glucola drink, but patients may also choose to purchase the Fresh Test (a natural glucose option without dyes or additives) if they prefer.
If the 1-hour result is elevated, the next step is a 3-hour glucose tolerance test, which involves fasting overnight and having your blood drawn several times after drinking a glucose solution. This test confirms whether gestational diabetes is present.
If you have a history of gestational diabetes, elevated early blood sugars, or other risk factors, we may recommend earlier screening.
Group B Strep (GBS) Screening
GBS is a common bacterium that many healthy adults naturally carry in the vagina or rectum. It usually does not cause illness in adults, but it can lead to serious infection in newborns if not treated during labor. We screen at 35 weeks and up.
If your test is positive, you will receive antibiotics during labor to greatly reduce the risk of passing GBS to your baby. This treatment is safe for both you and your newborn.
You May Choose How the Swab is Collected
- Self-swab: Many patients prefer to collect the sample themselves in the restroom. We will explain exactly how to do the swab, and it is quick and easy.
- Physician collected swab: If you prefer, your physician can collect the sample for you during your visit.
Both methods are equally accurate, so you can choose the option that feels most comfortable.
For more information, visit evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep.
Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
We check your blood pressure at every visit to screen for preeclampsia, a condition that can develop in the second half of pregnancy. Preeclampsia can affect multiple organs and may become serious if not monitored and treated.
Symptoms that may suggest preeclampsia include:
- Severe headaches that do not improve with acetaminophen
- Vision changes (such as blurry vision or seeing spots)
- Persistent pain on the right upper side of your abdomen
- Sudden swelling of your face, hands, or feet
Some of these symptoms can occur in normal pregnancy, but when combined with elevated blood pressure, they require further evaluation. Please contact your provider right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
Nutrition in Pregnancy
Eating well during pregnancy helps you feel your best and supports your baby’s growth. You don’t need to eat a lot more food – just make healthier choices and add a small amount of extra calories later in pregnancy.
General Eating Guidelines
- Try to choose whole foods most of the time: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, eggs, lean meats, and fish.
- Limit highly processed foods (fast foods, packaged snacks, sugary drinks).
- A Mediterranean-style diet (lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, fish, healthy oils) is strongly linked to healthier pregnancies.
- Avoid diets that cut out major food groups (like keto or strict Paleo) unless your doctor has approved them.
How Much to Eat
- You do not need extra calories in the first trimester.
- In the second trimester, you need about 300–350 extra calories per day (about a small meal or hearty snack).
- In the third trimester, you need about 450 extra calories per day.
- Aim to include protein at each meal (eggs, dairy, beans, nuts, seeds, fish, chicken, turkey, tofu).
Important Nutrients
- Folic acid: Take a daily prenatal vitamin with 400–800 mcg folic acid. This helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spine.
- Iron: Helps prevent anemia. Meat sources absorb best, but if you are vegetarian, pair plant iron sources with vitamin C (citrus, peppers, tomatoes).
- Calcium and vitamin D: Needed for your baby’s bones and your own bone health.
- Choline: Important for brain development (found in eggs, meat, beans).
- Iodine: Needed for baby’s brain and thyroid development; most prenatal vitamins include this.
- Vitamin A: Do not take extra vitamin A supplements; too much can be harmful.
- Omega-3 (DHA): Helps with brain development. Eat low-mercury fish or take a prenatal with DHA.
Seafood Safety
Fish is healthy in pregnancy and helps your baby’s brain development. Choose low-mercury fish like salmon, tilapia, cod, shrimp, sardines, and canned light tuna. Avoid high-mercury fish such as king mackerel, swordfish, shark, and bigeye tuna.
Food Safety
Pregnancy lowers your immune system, so food safety is important. Wash produce well, cook meats fully, and refrigerate leftovers promptly.
What to Avoid?
- Unpasteurized milk, juice, or soft cheeses made with unpasteurized milk
- Raw sprouts
- Raw or undercooked meat, seafood, or eggs
- Foods likely to carry listeria (deli meats or hot dogs unless reheated until steaming)
Allergies
There is no need to avoid foods like peanuts, eggs, or dairy unless you are allergic. Eating a variety of foods does not increase allergy risk in your baby.
Weight Gain and Activity
Your recommended weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy BMI. We will review this with you. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week (for example, 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week). Walking, swimming, and prenatal fitness classes are all good choices.
Caffeine, Alcohol and Marijuana
- Limit caffeine to less than 200 mg per day (about 1–2 cups of coffee).
- Avoid alcohol and marijuana completely during pregnancy.
Special Diets
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may need help ensuring you get enough protein, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. Let us know—we can help with meal planning or refer you to a dietitian.
If You Have Trouble Getting Enough Food
If you worry you don’t have enough food at home, please tell us. Programs like WIC can help pregnant women access healthy foods and supplements.
Exercise in Pregnancy
Regular exercise is safe and healthy for most pregnant patients. It can help improve your mood, reduce back pain, lower your risk of gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, and may even make labor and recovery easier.
How much exercise do I need?
The general recommendation is 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, which means about:
- 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week OR
- Shorter sessions (10-15 minutes) spread throughout the day
Moderate exercise means you can talk but not sing while you’re moving.
If you exercised before pregnancy, you can usually keep doing the same activities as long as you feel good. If you are new to exercise, walking is a great place to start.
Activities That Are Safe in Pregnancy
- Walking
- Stationary bike
- Prenatal or low-impact aerobics
- Swimming or water aerobics
- Light strength training with bands or weights
- Prenatal yoga or gentle stretching
Tips for Safe Exercise
- Avoid lying flat on your back after 20 weeks.
- Stay hydrated and avoid overheating.
- Stop if you feel dizzy, short of breath, have chest pain, or feel contractions.
- Wear supportive shoes and a good sports bra.
Who should check with a provider first?
If you have medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or certain pregnancy complications, talk with us before starting or changing your exercise routine. We can help you find a safe plan.
Mood and Emotional Health
Pregnancy can bring many physical and emotional changes. Hormones, life stress, and changes in sleep can all affect your mood. Feeling more emotional, irritable, or tearful at times can be normal.
If these feelings become intense, last more than a few days, or start to interfere with your daily life, please talk with your provider. We see this often, and help is available.
If you are already taking medication for anxiety or depression, many of these medications can be safely continued during pregnancy. Do not stop your medication without talking to us first. We can help you weigh the benefits and risks and make a plan that supports both your mental health and your pregnancy.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself, please reach out. Taking care of your mental health is an important part of taking care of your baby.
When Do I Worry? When Should I Call?
First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)
Call us right away if you have:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour) or passing large clots
- Severe cramping or intense abdominal pain, especially on one side
- Severe pain in your shoulder or neck (can be a sign of internal bleeding)
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Severe vomiting where you cannot keep down any liquids for more than 24 hours
- Severe headache that doesn’t go away with rest or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Burning, pain, or urgency when urinating
Let us know within 24 hours if you have:
- Light bleeding or spotting (this can be normal, but we want to know)
- Mild cramping
- Nausea and vomiting that isn’t improving with home remedies
Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27)
Call us right away if you have:
- Any vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Severe headache, vision changes (blurry vision, seeing spots), or sudden swelling of your face or hands
- Pain in your upper right abdomen (under your ribs on the right side)
- Decreased fetal movement after you’ve started feeling the baby move regularly
- Leaking fluid from your vagina
- Regular contractions or tightening of your uterus
Let us know within 24 hours if you have:
- Burning, pain, or urgency when urinating
- Vaginal discharge with a bad odor, itching, or irritation
- Persistent lower back pain or pelvic pressure
Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40+)
Call us right away or go to Labor Delivery if you have:
- Any gush or steady leak of fluid from your vagina (your water breaking)
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Severe headache that doesn’t go away
- Vision changes (blurry vision, seeing spots or flashing lights)
- Sudden severe swelling of your face, hands, or feet
- Pain in your upper right abdomen (under your ribs on the right side)
- Decreased fetal movement (if baby isn’t moving as much as usual)
- Regular contractions before 37 weeks
- After 37 weeks: Regular contractions that are getting closer together and stronger (you cannot talk through them)
Let us know within 24 hours if you have:
- Burning, pain, or urgency when urinating
- Persistent lower back pain, pelvic pressure, or difficulty sleeping (we can discuss comfort measures at your next visit)
- Any concerns about your mental health or feelings of depression or anxiety
Checking Baby’s Movement
After you start feeling your baby move regularly (usually 16-22 weeks), pay attention to your baby’s movement patterns. Every baby is different and has their own pattern.
If you’re worried your baby isn’t moving as much:
- Drink a cold beverage or eat a snack
- Lie down in a quiet, dark room
- Count how many times baby moves in 2 hours
- If baby moves 10 times in 2 hours, this is generally reassuring
- If you’re still concerned, call us or go to Labor Delivery—we’re happy to check on your baby
When in Doubt, Give Us a Call!
We would rather hear from you and reassure you than have you worry at home. Trust your instincts—you know your body best.
Safe Over-the-Counter Medications During Pregnancy
Most women will experience common symptoms like colds, headaches, or heartburn during pregnancy. This guide lists medications that are generally safe to use. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, and discuss any medication use with your physician.
Nausea and Vomiting
Safe options:
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): 25 mg every 8 hours
- Ginger: 250 mg four times daily (1,000-1,500 mg total per day)
- Doxylamine (Unisom): Safe throughout pregnancy
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Safe throughout pregnancy
Heartburn, Gas, and Upset Stomach
Safe options:
- Antacids: Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta (calcium, magnesium, or aluminum-containing)
- H2 blockers: Famotidine (Pepcid, Zantac 360), Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Proton pump inhibitors: Omeprazole (Prilosec), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Pantoprazole (Protonix)
- For gas: Simethicone (Gas-X, Mylanta Gas)
Avoid: Antacids containing sodium bicarbonate combined with aspirin; magnesium trisilicate
Cough and Cold
Safe options:
- Guaifenesin (Mucinex): For cough with mucus
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin): For dry cough
- Combination products: Robitussin DM
- Cough drops and Vicks VapoRub
- Saline nasal spray or rinse
Avoid: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), and any cold remedies containing alcohol
Pain Relief, Headaches, and Fever
Safe option:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Use at the lowest dose for the shortest time needed. Do not exceed 4,000 mg per day.
Avoid:
- NSAIDs (Ibuprofen/Advil, Naproxen/Aleve): Avoid in the first and third trimesters due to risks of birth defects and premature closure of blood vessels in the baby’s heart. May be used in the second trimester only if specifically discussed with your physician.
Allergies
Safe options:
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Saline nasal rinse
All are safe throughout pregnancy.
Constipation
Safe options:
- Fiber supplements: Psyllium (Metamucil), Polycarbophil (FiberCon), Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
- Stool softeners: Docusate (Colace)
- Laxatives: Dulcolax, Milk of Magnesia
- Probiotics
First try: Increase water intake to more than 64 ounces per day and add dietary fiber.
Hemorrhoids
Safe options:
- Preparation H
- Anusol
- Tucks pads
- Hydrocortisone 1% cream (low-potency topical steroid)
Also helpful: Sitz baths, increased water and fiber intake
Diarrhea
Safe option:
- Loperamide (Imodium): Use at the lowest dose for the shortest duration
Yeast Infections and Fungal Infections
Safe options:
- Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Gyne-Lotrimin)
- Miconazole (Monistat 3)
- Tioconazole (Monistat 1)
These are safe for vaginal yeast infections and athlete’s foot.
Insomnia
Safe options:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Doxylamine (Unisom)
First try: Improve sleep hygiene (regular bedtime, dark room, avoid screens before bed)
Skin Conditions
Safe options:
- For itching/rashes: Hydrocortisone 1% cream
- For cuts and scrapes: Bacitracin, Polysporin (polymyxin B)
- For acne: Azelaic acid
Avoid: Topical retinoids like adapalene (Differin)
What to Bring for Delivery
You do not need to overpack. The hospital provides many essentials. Here are helpful items to consider:
For You During Labor
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Birth plan (if you have one)
- Eyeglasses (even if you normally wear contacts)
- Phone and charger
- Items that help you relax (music, pillow, blanket, essential oils if desired)
- Something to read or watch if you are scheduled for an induction
For Your Support Person
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant)
- Phone and charger
- Snacks and drinks
- Money or credit card for meals
- Camera (optional)
After Delivery – For You
- Comfortable nightgown or loose clothing
- Toiletries (lip balm is especially helpful)
- Nursing bras or comfortable bras
- Breast pads
- Nipple cream if breastfeeding
- Comfortable underwear (the hospital provides mesh underwear and pads)
- Going-home outfit (loose and comfortable; you will still look several months pregnant)
- Comfortable, easy-to-slip-on shoes
The hospital will provide pads, diapers, wipes, and basic toiletries.
For Your Baby
- Installed rear-facing car seat (required to go home)
- Going-home outfit (bring newborn and 0–3 month size just in case)
- Hat and socks
- Blanket (weather appropriate)
Diapers and wipes are provided in the hospital unless you prefer a specific brand.
Feeding-Specific Items
If breastfeeding:
- Nursing bras
- Breast pads
- Nipple cream
- You do not need to bring a pump unless you would like assistance using your own.
If formula feeding:
- Formula if you prefer a specific brand
- Comfortable, supportive bra
Postpartum Instructions
When to Call Your Provider
Please call right away or seek urgent care if you experience:
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Chills
- Heavy bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour) or passing large clots
- Fainting or feeling like you may pass out
- Severe headache that does not improve with medication
- Vision changes
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or legs
- Pain, redness, warmth, or swelling in your calves or thighs
- Painful urination or difficulty emptying your bladder
- Redness, severe pain, or fever with breast tenderness
- Increasing pain that is not improving over time
- Feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, or thoughts of harming yourself
If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or feel that something is seriously wrong, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you are unsure, it is always okay to call.
Breast and Nipple Care (Breastfeeding Mothers)
Breast fullness and tenderness (engorgement) are common and usually begin 2–3 days after delivery.
To reduce discomfort:
- Wear a supportive bra
- Feed your baby frequently
- Make sure your baby has a deep latch (taking in the nipple and much of the areola)
- Apply warm compresses or take a warm shower before feeding
- Use cold packs after feeding if swollen
- Apply lanolin or nipple cream as needed
- Break suction gently with your finger before removing baby from the breast
Contact us if you develop fever, chills, or worsening redness and pain.
Breast Care (Not Breastfeeding)
If you are not breastfeeding, your breasts may still feel full for a few days.
To reduce discomfort:
- Wear a supportive (not tight) bra
- Avoid stimulating or massaging the breasts
- Apply cold compresses for 15–20 minutes at a time
Avoid expressing milk, as this can increase production.
Vaginal Bleeding (Lochia)
Bleeding after delivery is normal and can last up to 4–6 weeks.
- The first few days are usually bright or dark red and heavier
- Bleeding gradually becomes lighter in color and amount
- Small clots are normal
- A brief “gush” when standing after lying down can be normal
If bleeding becomes bright red again and heavier after it had slowed, it may mean you need more rest.
Call if you soak more than one pad per hour or pass large clots.
Perineal Care
- Clean from front to back after using the restroom
- Continue using the peri bottle as needed
- Sitz baths (lukewarm water) can help with comfort and healing
- Witch hazel pads or topical anesthetic sprays may help
Activity and Recovery
- Avoid heavy lifting for 4 weeks after vaginal delivery and 6 weeks after cesarean
- Pelvic rest (no sex, tampons, or douching) for about 6 weeks
- Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medication
- Rest when your baby rests and accept help when offered
Follow-Up Appointments
- All patients should schedule a postpartum visit around 6 weeks
- Cesarean patients should have an incision check 10–14 days after delivery
Medications
- Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are first-line for pain control
- If prescribed narcotic pain medication after cesarean delivery, use only as needed and for the shortest time possible
- Continue prenatal vitamins
- Use stool softeners (docusate, Miralax, or senna) if needed
- Take iron supplements if recommended
Baby Blues
It is common to feel emotional, tearful, or overwhelmed during the first 1–2 weeks after delivery. This is often related to hormone changes and lack of sleep. Rest, accept help, and take small breaks when possible.
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
If feelings of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, or irritability last longer than two weeks or interfere with daily life, please contact us. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common and treatable. You are not alone, and effective help is available.
Seek urgent help if you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. You can also call or text 988 for immediate support.
We want you to feel healthy, supported, and able to enjoy this time with your baby.
Newborn Care
Please review our newborn packet for more detailed information. Below is an overview of what to expect in the hospital.
Immediately after delivery, we encourage skin-to-skin contact with parents. If your baby is doing well, we typically delay cord clamping.
Within the first 24 hours after birth, we recommend babies receive routine newborn care, including:
- Vitamin K injection
- Erythromycin eye ointment
- Hepatitis B vaccine
- Newborn screening blood test (checks for rare medical conditions)
- Bilirubin level (screens for jaundice)
If you have a baby boy, you will also decide whether or not to have a circumcision.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps blood clot and prevents dangerous bleeding. Babies are born with very low vitamin K levels, so we recommend a vitamin K injection shortly after birth. Without it, babies are at risk for serious bleeding, including bleeding in the brain.
Vitamin K is recommended for all newborns. Circumcision cannot be performed if vitamin K is declined.
For more information, visit evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-for-the-vitamin-k-shot-in-newborns/.
Erythromycin Eye Ointment
Erythromycin ointment is placed in your baby’s eyes shortly after birth to prevent serious eye infections. It is safe and helps protect newborns from infections that can cause vision problems.
For more information, visit evidencebasedbirth.com/is-erythromycin-eye-ointment-always-necessary-for-newborns/.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The first hepatitis B vaccine is given shortly after birth. This helps protect your baby from hepatitis B, which can be spread unknowingly by close contacts. The vaccine series continues at 2 months and 6 months of age.
Circumcision
Circumcision is an optional procedure for baby boys. It is the surgical removal of the foreskin covering the tip of the penis. It is usually performed before discharge if the baby is healthy and stable.
The American Academy of Pediatrics considers circumcision a parental choice. Families may choose circumcision for personal, cultural, or religious reasons.
Possible benefits include:
- Lower risk of urinary tract infections in infancy
- Lower risk of certain infections later in life
- Prevention of foreskin infections or phimosis
Possible risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Cosmetic differences
- Rare injury to the penis
Most uncircumcised boys can maintain good health with proper hygiene. If you are considering circumcision, check with your insurance provider regarding coverage.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Circumcision is done using local numbing medication. The procedure takes about 10 minutes. Your baby will be monitored afterward to ensure he is comfortable and stable.
Caring for a Circumcised Penis
- Apply ointment with each diaper change
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Healing typically takes 7–10 days
Call your provider if you notice increasing redness, swelling, drainage, or bleeding.
Caring for an Uncircumcised Penis
- Wash the outside with soap and water
- Do not pull back the foreskin
- As your child grows, the foreskin will naturally loosen
When the foreskin becomes retractable later in childhood, teach gentle cleaning and return the foreskin to its normal position afterward.
Helpful Resources
Oaklawn Birth Center
oaklawnhospital.org/services/birth-center/
Birth Plan
oaklawnhospital.org/services/birth-center/oaklawn-birth-plan/
Birthing Classes
oaklawnhospital.org/services/birth-center/childbirth-education-classes/
evidencebasedbirth.com/parentclasses/
Breastfeeding Support
kellymom.com/
www.mibreastfedbaby.com
www.milklikemine.com, 223 E. Roosevelt Ave, Battle Creek, MI, (269) 234-5908
Evidence Based Birth
evidencebasedbirth.com
