Question 1

What's the easiest way to put on a medical gown?

Accepted Answer

The method for putting on a medical gown is similar to putting on a button-up shirt.

Question 2

Should I avoid sexual activity before an OB-GYN appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's recommended to avoid sexual activity before your OB-GYN appointment, as the doctor prefers not to see sperm during the examination.

Question 3

Do I need to remove my bra for an OB-GYN appointment?

Accepted Answer

You only need to remove your bra at annual visits because breast exams are performed then. For any other type of visit, bra removal is not necessary.

Question 4

Why might I experience more 'down there' pain in subsequent pregnancies?

Accepted Answer

It's natural for the uterus and its supporting ligaments to hang lower after carrying a baby. This means you'll likely carry lower in subsequent pregnancies, which can lead to increased pain 'down there' compared to your first pregnancy.

Question 5

What kind of cramping is normal during pregnancy, and when should I be concerned?

Accepted Answer

Light cramping is generally expected in the first and second trimesters as the uterus grows. However, cramping should not be consistent or severe abdominal pain. If you experience severe abdominal pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding, you should seek immediate medical attention at the emergency room.

Question 6

Is shortness of breath normal during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's very normal to experience shortness of breath during pregnancy, especially towards the end. This occurs because as the baby grows, there is less room for your lungs to expand.

Question 7

What should I expect during a clinical breast exam, and when are they recommended?

Accepted Answer

Clinical breast exams are recommended once you turn 25. During the exam, the practice examines your breast tissue as a whole, checking for anything abnormal. You may be asked to lean forward or lay back, and the armpit area is also checked for nodes, as breast tissue drains into the armpit.

Question 8

How can I tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and real labor contractions?

Accepted Answer

Braxton Hicks contractions are felt on the sides of the uterus as a sensation of tightening and loosening that comes and goes, without causing changes to the cervix. Real contractions, however, start at the top of the uterus, are felt going down and loosening, and involve the cervix getting thinner (effacement). As real contractions continue, the cervix thins further, and nurses will check for dilation and the baby's head descent. The power in real contractions originates from the top of the uterus.

Question 9

What is a pelvic ultrasound, why might I need one, and what should I expect?

Accepted Answer

A pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive method for imaging pelvic organs, providing crucial information for patient care decisions. Reasons for needing one include pelvic pain, irregular periods, or postmenopausal bleeding. At Cherokee Women's, ultrasounds involve both transabdominal (on the belly) and transvaginal imaging to gather the most comprehensive information. You will receive all your results from your provider before leaving the office on the same day.

Question 10

How do C-bands work for morning sickness?

Accepted Answer

C-bands are a method for addressing morning sickness by applying acupressure to a specific point on the inner aspect of the wrists. Some women report that wearing C-bands helps alleviate nausea quickly.

Question 11

How can I differentiate between normal early pregnancy cramps and cramps that might indicate a miscarriage?

Accepted Answer

Light cramping is generally expected in the first and second trimesters as the uterus grows. However, cramping should not be consistent or severe abdominal pain. If you experience severe abdominal pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding, you should seek immediate medical attention at the emergency room.

Question 12

As a first-time mom, how can I truly tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and actual labor contractions?

Accepted Answer

Braxton Hicks contractions are felt on the sides of the uterus as a sensation of tightening and loosening that comes and goes, without causing changes to the cervix. Real contractions, however, start at the top of the uterus, are felt going down and loosening, and involve the cervix getting thinner (effacement). As real contractions continue, the cervix thins further, and nurses will check for dilation and the baby's head descent. The power in real contractions originates from the top of the uterus.

Question 13

What kind of 'down there' pain during pregnancy is considered normal versus something I should call my doctor about immediately?

Accepted Answer

Light cramping is generally expected in the first and second trimesters as the uterus grows. However, cramping should not be consistent or severe abdominal pain. If you experience severe abdominal pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding, you should seek immediate medical attention at the emergency room.

Question 14

Does it matter if I wear a bra or not during a clinical breast exam, or just for the general appointment?

Accepted Answer

You only need to remove your bra at annual visits because breast exams are performed then. For any other type of visit, bra removal is not necessary.

Dr. Peahen Gandhi, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

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