7800 Wolf Trail Cove, Germantown, TN 38138 • (901) 682-9222 • Open Weekdays 8:00 - 5:00
PATIENT EDUCATION: OBSTETRICS
STAGES OF PREGNANCY: SECOND TRIMESTER
The first trimester hurdle has been successfully cleared and you are now entering a phase of increasing awareness. During the second trimester you will start to feel your baby's movements, hear its heartbeat, and see the amazing growth by ultrasound.
Alpha-Fetoprotein Test
The AFP test identifies pregnancies at higher-than-average risk of certain serious birth defects, such as spina bifida (open spine) and Down syndrome.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a procedure performed on pregnant women in their second trimester to diagnose or rule out birth defects.
Cervical Incompetence
Cervical incompetence is defined as a condition where the cervix begins to open and thin due to pressures of the growing fetus and uterus.
Changes to Your Body During Pregnancy
Changes to a woman's body begin very early in pregnancy. In fact, it seems that just about everything changes. Understanding these changes is important, as they will help you realize what is normal or abnormal.
Chorionic Villus Sampling
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a procedure used to diagnose certain birth defects in the first trimester of pregnancy. The test has been performed regularly since 1982, and thousands have been performed around the world.
Dental Work During Pregnancy
Dental work during pregnancy is safe.
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a birth defect that occurs in approximately 1 in 900 births. It is the most common birth defect.
Drug Use During Pregnancy
It is estimated that 10% to 45% of pregnant women in the first trimester, unaware of their condition, reach for the most common over-the-counter drug: aspirin.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a condition where a pregnancy develops outside of its normal position within the uterus, such as in the fallopian tube.
Gestational Diabetes Tests
Gestational diabetes is the type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
Heartburn and Acid Indigestion During Pregnancy
Indigestion, heartburn, constipation, gas and bloating are some of the most common complaints during pregnancy, especially in the later months.
Intrauterine Growth Retardation
Intrauterine growth retardation is used to describe an infant whose weight is significantly less than expected for its gestational age.
Is the Consumption of Fish Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Healthcare officials have issued a new advisory on the dangers of eating fish. Healthcare officials are concerned that the level of mercury in fish might pose certain risks to a developing fetus.
Keep Your Baby Safe During Pregnancy
Food can be contaminated with a bacteria called Listeria. Learn to protect your food against this common bacteria.
Medications and Pregnancy
Since 1984, all OTC drug products have carried the following warning: 'As with any other drug, if you are pregnant or nursing, seek the advice of a health professional before using this product.'
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) measures the body's ability to use glucose.
Palpitations
Heartbeat sensations involve a regular or irregular pounding of the heart. It is a conscious, unpleasant awareness of one's own heartbeat, or a sensation of skipped or stopped beats. Palpitations can be felt in the chest, throat, or neck.
Pregnancy and Eating Disorders
One of the most important things a woman can do to ensure a healthy pregnancy for herself and her baby is to eat a well-balanced diet. Good nutrition during pregnancy is essential to creating an environment that allows the baby to grow and flourish.
Pregnancy and Exercise
The benefits of exercise, good nutrition, and the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle are undisputed as ways to reduce many of the diseases that affect women such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and obesity.
Preterm Labor
Preterm labor is one of the most serious obstetrical problems. Approximately 1 in 10 births results in preterm labor with preterm delivery of a small infant.
Round Ligament Pain
Although there are many reasons for abdominal pain during pregnancy, the most common condition is round ligament pain.
Stillbirth
Stillbirth is defined as the death of a fetus between the 20th week (5th month) of pregnancy and birth. This is a particularly devastating problem for the parents and physician.
Travel During Pregnancy
Traveling during pregnancy can be very enjoyable. Through the first two trimesters and into the third, it is perfectly safe to travel as long as you are not experiencing any complications and your doctor has not indicated any reasons for prohibiting travel.
Triple Screen Test
The Triple Screen is a prenatal blood test that measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and unconjugated estriol (uE3). The test is performed between the 12th and 19th week of pregnancy to provide you and your doctor valuable information about you and your growing fetus.
Weight Gain During Pregnancy
The average recommended weight gain during pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds.
7800 Wolf Trail Cove, Germantown, TN 38138
Phone: (901) 682-9222; Fax: (901) 682-9505
