Here is the long awaited second part of my interview with Dr. James Patenge!
Is it ok to exercise while pregnant?
James Patenge, DO, OB/GYN
In most cases it’s ok to continue with your regular exercise routine. Keeping your heart rate below 140 bmp and avoiding abdominal workouts is a good idea. I would also recommend lots of walking.
Do I have a choice to deliver vaginally or have c-section?
There is a great deal of controversy around this question. It is generally recommended to trail a vaginal birth first since it is considered “less risk” overall. However, there are some that argue a patient should have a choice. As long as the patient fully understands the risks and benefits of vaginal birth verses a c-section, then the patient should have that option. Many insurance companies will not pay for an elective c-section because it is more costly. We have noticed elective c-sections increasing nationally, but it’s still a very small percentage. The trend now is moving back to vaginal birth after a c-section.
What reasons would I need to have labor induced?
Labor is induced for going beyond your due date, severe high blood pressure called severe pre-eclampsia, gestation diabetes, fetal growth issues of either too small or too large, multiple births and other less common issues.
Are there test that can determine any issues with my unborn child?
Commonly a quad test and fetal ultrasound is offered to look at potential genetic anomalies. We use non-stress tests (NST) to check for fetal well-being. We also use lab work to check for diabetes, pre-eclampsia and other issues.
How long will I have to stay at the hospital after giving birth?
Vaginal births will often stay one to two days and a c-section will often stay one to 3 nights depending on how the patient is doing.
ourbabysjourney 