We have collected common questions we receive from our clients. You will find answers for each below.

Obstetrical Questions

1. Question: When will I meet all the doctors in the practice?
   Answer: Starting between 28-30 weeks during your pregnancy, you will be given the opportunity to start rotating physicians so you can meet your physician's associates in case your physician is not available at the time of your delivery.



2. Question: At what point during my pregnancy will I have the option to have the triple screen test performed and how is this done?
   Answer: Between 15-18 weeks during your pregnancy your physician will give you the option of having the triple screen test performed. This is done by drawing blood and you physician will discuss the results of this test during your next scheduled appointment. There is information on this subject in your Great Expectations Book on page 10.



3. Question: I have heard that some women during their pregnancy develop diabetes. At what point during my pregnancy will I be tested for diabetes and what is the procedure for the test?
   Answer: We will evaluate you for gestational diabetes between 24-48 weeks of your pregnancy. This is a 1-hour glucose test and you don not have to fast for this test; however, when you eat prior to your visit do not have an over abundance of sugar. There is detailed information on this on page 11 and page 50 in your Great Expectations Book.



4. Question: What is the purpose of the vaginal beta strep test and when will this test be performed during my pregnancy?
   Answer: The vaginal beta strep test is performed on all pregnant women to check for growth of bacteria and is performed between 34-36 weeks during your pregnancy. There is detailed information on this on page 53 in your Great Expectations Book.



5. Question: Other than prenatal vitamins are there any other dietary supplement pills I should take during my pregnancy?
   Answer: Your physician may prescribe iron tablets in addition to prenatal vitamins. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins but do not take these medications at the same time. They must be taken at different times.



6. Question: Is there a way to stop production of breast milk?
   Answer: There is no way to cease the production of breast milk. If you choose not to breastfeed or want to discontinue breastfeeding, the following will assist in allowing you a break to return to normal as quickly as possible:
   1. Wear a good, supportive bra.
   2. Avoid stimulation of the breast, especially the nipples.
   3. Use Tylenol or Ibuprofen as needed for discomfort.
   4. Cold cabbage leaves applied to the breast may be helpful, or an ice pack.
   It will usually take several days for the engorged breast to return to normal.



7. Question: Are there any medications I should not take during my pregnancy?
   Answer: Any medication on the "Over-the-Counter Medication List" in your packet is safe to take. Do not take any medication that is not listed on this list without consulting your physician or pharmacist first.



8. Question: What do I need to know about having dentist appointments?
   Answer: You may go to the dentist and have dental x-rays done if the dentist deems them necessary. If you or your dentist has questions, he or she may call our office for clearance from your physician.



9. Question: If it becomes necessary at the dentist, is it safe for me to receive pain medicine?
   Answer: You can have Novacaine if an anesthetic is necessary.



10. Question: If I have been exposed to TB, work in the medical field or if for any other reason, is it safe to have a TB skin test?
    Answer: You may take a TB skin test. We do not perform these tests in our office and you must see your primary care physician for the test.



11. Question: Is there any reason I should not have the flu shot during my pregnancy?
    Answer: Pregnancy does not contraindicate the flu shot. You will have to see your primary care physician, as we do not give these specific injections in our office.



12. Question: Is it O.K. to use a hot tub or take a tub bath?
    Answer: You may use a hot tub at a low temperature only (<100 degrees Fahrenheit) and you may take a tub bath. This is addressed on page 28 of your Great Expectations Book.



13. Question: Will my OB doctor treat me for an earache?
    Answer: You will need to contact your primary care physician for treatment of an earache.



14. Question: Is painting acceptable during my pregnancy?
    Answer: You may paint as long as you are in a well-ventilated area. Please read page 28 of your Great Expectations Book for more details on this subject.



15. Question: What about sexual intercourse?
    Answer: It is OK to continue intercourse unless told otherwise by your individual physician or if it is painful. There is more detailed information in your Great Expectations Book on page 28.



16. Question: What type of exercising is permitted during my pregnancy?
    Answer: There is detailed information regarding this subject in your Great Expectations Book on pages 42 and 43. Please read carefully.



17. Question: How many ultrasounds will I have and at what time during my pregnancy?
    Answer: Your insurance usually covers only one basic ultrasound, which is usually performed at 18 weeks. If additional ultrasounds are deemed medically necessary, authorization from your insurance company must be obtained at that time.



18. Question: Where do I get information on prenatal classes?
    Answer: Prenatal class information will be given to you on your second visit with your physician. Please know which hospital you are planning to use for delivery. If you are unsure, it is your responsibility to inform the nurse of the correct facility so they may give you the appropriate information.

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Gynecological Questions

1. Question: Should I douche on a regular basis or after sex?
   Answer: Douching is not generally recommended for overall gynecological health.



2. Question: When should I start taking my birth control pills?
   Answer: Birth Control Pills are generally started on the Sunday after your period starts.



3. Question: What should I do if I miss taking one of my birth control pills?
   Answer: If you miss a birth control pill, take it as soon as remembered and use back-up birth control measures for the rest of the cycle.



4. Question: Where can I get the morning after pill?
   Answer: The "morning after" pill is available by prescription only. Please consult your personal physician at your next appointment.



5. Question: I only feel comfortable talking to a female doctor about my personal problems. Is there one available for me?
   Answer: We currently have two female physicians on staff.



6. Question: How much does it cost for surgery?
   Answer: The cost of each of our procedures varies. Please ask your personal physician to explain the procedure during your office visit and he or she will direct you regarding specific costs and possible insurance coverage to our staff coordinator.



7. Question: What do I do if I have questions about my procedure after normal business hours?
   Answer: If there are questions about procedures, they need to be addressed by a physician or their nurse, not the triage nurse available 8:30 am until 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. Please call our main number and leave a message for your physician's nurse to return your call.



8. Question: How do I know if my insurance plan is accepted at your office?
   Answer: Questions about insurance plans need to be directed to the business office by calling 704.344.1000 8:30 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.



9. Question: How do I get information about my lab results or information I need regarding short-term disabililty?
   Answer: Lab results and short-term disability paperwork questions should be referred to your physician or their nurse. The triage nurse is NOT authorized to give lab/pap results.



10. Question: Where do I get information if I am interested in an abortion?
    Answer: We refer women to the local yellow pages for information on termination of pregnancies.



11. Question: Where can I find a primary care physician or pediatrician after my baby is born?
    Answer: Patients should ask their individual physician or look in their insurance plan book or visit their website for recommendations for a primary care physician or pediatrician.



12. Question: What do I do if I am having problems with my current birth control pills or hormones?
    Answer: You need to speak to your personal physician at your next appointment (or schedule one) in order to change birth control pills or hormone therapy due to complications.

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