What Should You Tell Your Doctor?

In order to ensure the best health care, it is very important to disclose everything which might affect your health or your baby's.

It is smart to disclose the following:

• Any drug usage you might have done including over the counter, prescription, and street drugs. This is especially important so your doctor knows or can explain any affects drugs may have on you and your baby as your body chemistry changes during pregnancy.
• About any vitamins or other supplements you are taking as some can have adverse affects on your pregnancy.
• Health history such as chronic illnesses, disorders, HIV, hepatitis, venereal diseases, and any pregnancy complications encountered by extended family members.
• All facts regarding previous pregnancies especially regarding complications.
• Discuss any exercise routines you hope to engage in during your pregnancy.
• Any food choices you hope to continue in your diet.
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Blood or fluid leaking from your vagina
• Sudden abdominal or vaginal pain or cramping
• Contractions
• Dizziness, blurry vision, or headache
• Deep back pain
• Heart palpitations
• Swelling of the face, hands or feet
• Calf pain
• Contractions
• Difficulties in walking
• Abnormal change in your baby's movements

It is important to discontinue the following:

1. Alcohol usage as it can cause severe health problems for your baby.
2. Street drug usage, depending on the street drug the effects vary and can be significant.
3. Excessive or strenuous exercise.
4. Any activity which causes pressure or inflicts any damage to your abdomen.
5. Poor nutrition.