Hilltop Obstetrics & Gynecology Frequently Asked Questions

As part of our goal to assist and promote healthy living, we’d like to share some of our most frequently asked questions. Please note that if you are experiencing pain or bleeding, it is best to seek care with your physician. Below is a general guide and should not be used as a substitute for medical care.

• Q. I'm pregnant now. Should I take a prenatal class?
  A. If this is your first pregnancy, prenatal classes are a great way to understand and prepare you for what's to come. You'll learn a great deal about the labor and delivery process and have the opportunity to have your questions (and those of your partner or coach) answered. The better educated you are, the more comfortable you will be during the actual event.
• Q. This is my second child, but it's been a while since the birth of my first baby. Should I take another prenatal class?
  A. Most physicians leave this decision up to the patient. If it's been several years since your last baby's birth, many parents find that a "refresher class" is worthwhile. Often hospitals sponsor both types of classes – one geared for the first time parents-to-be, and other for those having a second child. Some hospitals also offer "sibling classes" since the birth of a new baby changes life for everyone in the family. Talk with your physician at your next appointment. He/she will probably refer you to your delivering hospital for additional class information.
• Q. I'm pregnant and sick to my stomach each morning. Is there anything I can do to ease it?
  A. Nausea and vomiting may occur during the early months of pregnancy and can occur at any time of the day or night. If you find that you are having frequent bouts of "morning sickness", there are some things you can do to help ease and/or prevent them:
  • Try to eat a piece of bread or a cracker before you get out of bed in the morning or when you feel nauseated
  • Avoid sudden movements. When rising each day, get out of bed slowly.
  • Eat a light snack (such as yogurt, cottage cheese, juice or milk) before you go to bed or just after you get up. These are also good items to eat if you get hungry during the night.
  • Eat several light meals each day so that your stomach does not remain empty for very long. This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, and soups and other liquids.
  • Avoid greasy or fried foods (hard to digest). Spicy or heavily seasoned foods can also lead to an upset stomach.
  • Other suggestions to help reduce morning sickness include:
  • rest whenever you need to with your feet up and head slightly elevated
  • Sip carbonated beverages or water slowly when you begin to feel nauseated
  • Fresh air often helps lessen nausea
  • Eat saltines & bananas
  • Drink spearmint or peppermint tea
• Q. I just started taking a new birth control pill, yet I’m having some spotting. What’s going on?
  A. Some spotting or breakthrough bleeding may occur as your body adjusts to the new medication. Continue to take your birth control as prescribed and it’s important to take progesterone only pills at the same time every day. If you take them late, your spotting may increase and the medication's effectiveness may decrease. If there is any unusual pain associated with your bleeding, it’s best to call the office and schedule an appointment.
• Q. Is there anything I can take for a urinary tract infection?
  A. If you feel that you have an infection, please call us. We’ll request that you come to the office and provide a urine sample to determine the type of infection you have. Your physician may then prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.
• Q. I think I have a yeast infection. What can I take?
  A. Without proper diagnosis, you may be failing to treat your problem correctly. It’s always best to call us and schedule an appointment.
• Q. Recently I seem to leak urine whenever I cough or sneeze. Why?
  A. Please call our office to schedule an appointment. Bladder problems are commonly seen in women and there are many treatments now available to help. Our physicians will review your medical history and perhaps recommend additional testing.