Celebrating our first New Year
of Kingwood
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to my first appointment?
There are "new patient" forms that can be printed from the home page to be filled out and brought with you. Please also know the first day of your last menstrual cycle (if applicable) and a list of the medicines you take. You need your driver's license and insurance card as well. If you have any records/labs from a previous physician you can bring a copy of that too.
When should someone have their first female exam?
Many young girls have problems with their menstrual cycle and may need a discussion with us for that reason at any age. A talk with us before someone becomes sexually active is encouraged. Once a female is sexually active an exam is encouraged every year. Pap smears (tests for cervical cancer) will start at age 21.
When can I stop coming to the gynecologist?
Never! During your yearly exam we are not only checking for cervical/vaginal wall cancer, but also uterine, ovarian and breast cancer whose risk increases with age. We screen your blood pressure and weight and will help monitor your screening for cholesterol, diabetes and thyroid disease.
What happens during a pelvic exam?
During a pelvic exam the gynecologist will use a speculum to help him/her get to the cervix which is at the bottom of the uterus. A tissue sample may or may not be taken from the cervix. After removing the speculum the gynecologist will do a bimanual exam where he/she traps the internal anatomy between their hands to look for any abnormalities.
What are my options for birth control?
Please see the attached sheet for a summary, but to simplify there are hormonal options and non-hormonal options. If you are breast feeding it is best to avoid estrogen in the birth control to keep good milk production. Tubal sterilization/occlusions should only be done if you are completely sure that your family is complete.
I am having hot flashes and night sweats. Does this mean I am menopausal?
Menopause is defined as not having a menstrual cycle for 12 months. However, it more basically means when your ovaries stop producing estrogen at the same level. The symptoms could also be from other causes and a good discussion should be had with the gynecologist to evaluate the cause and talk about the treatment options.
Is all vaginal discharge a yeast infection?
No! It turns out most vaginal discharge is a result of a bacterial infection. An exam by the doctor is the only way to diagnose which is the cause.
Is it normal to have irregular spotting when starting a new birth control?
Absolutely. Expect the unexpected. If it continues, be sure to contact the doctor to discuss the options.
What are the signs that I am in labor?
Labor means regular contractions with cervical change. If the contractions are at least every 3-5 minutes and are painful enough to take your breath away then you may be in active labor. Latent labor can last for several hours to days and has less painful contractions that are regular in timing.
What do I do if I think I broke my water?
Call the doctor's office immediately.
What are some warning signs that I am in preterm labor?
Some women go into preterm labor with very few symptoms or pain, but usually the woman will have 4 or more contractions per hour with a cramping/aching feeling in the pelvis. A lower back ache may be present that lasts for abour 45 seconds and then goes away, but returns minutes later.
Is bleeding in pregnancy normal?
Many pregnancies have first trimester spotting. It often is caused by the inside lining of the uterus breaking free just inside the cervix and is no risk to the pregnancy. The doctor will evaluate and may put the patient on pelvic rest. Bed rest has not been proven to prevent miscarriage. If there is cramping that becomes severe or bleeding that is soaking a pad every 1-2 hours, then call the doctor.
What do I do if I think I have postpartum depression?
If you are crying all of the time and are having a hard time bonding with the baby then you may have postpartum depression. You need to call the doctor's office. In Texas you may also call 1-877-472-1002 for their help line. If you have any thoughts of committing suicide or harming the baby then please go to the nearest emergency room.
What medicines are safe in pregnancy?
Please see the attached sheet. Only vitamins are a category A drug. There are several medicines that are category B, but most are unknown risk and are category C. There are times where a category C drug is necessary. If there are proven risks to the baby then they get a category D or X. You should not take any D or X drugs while pregnant.
What is the HPV virus?
The Human Papilloma Virus is the virus that is the cause of most cervical and vaginal wall cancers. Some strains of the virus are also responsible for genital warts. There are 2 vaccines now that try to provide protection against this virus just like the hepatitis vaccine and the measles/mumps/rubella vaccines. It is best to provide protection against the virus by getting the vaccine before the onset of intercourse. Therefor, it is most effective in young girls and boys before they even contemplate having sex.
Why is my due date 40 weeks?
We date a pregnancy at the time of the last menstrual cycle which is usually two weeks before ovulation and fertilization. This adds a couple of extra weeks and makes the due date 40 weeks. Full term is 37- 40 weeks for a single baby.
How many ultrasounds will I have in my pregnancy?
Most doctor's will ultrasound at the first appointment to accurately tell how far along the pregnancy is. You may choose genetic screening that includes an ultrasound between 11 and 14 weeks. There will also be an anatomical scan around 20 weeks to check on the general anatomy of the baby. That will be all of the scans unless the doctor thinks there is an indication for another one.
When should I see the doctor if I am pregnant?
Most obstetricians would like to see you for the first time between 6 and 10 weeks. It is early enough to get a good dating ultrasound and to offer genetic screening.
What should I do if I am not 6 weeks pregnant yet but I am having bleeding and pelvic pain?
Immediately be seen either by your doctor or by an emergency physician. We must rule out an ectopic pregnancy ( a pregnancy in the tube or somewhere other than the uterus).
Should I take a prenatal vitamin?
Yes. Please start with an over the counter prenatal vitamin until you get a prescription from your doctore. If your nausea is too bad from the vitamin then at least try a childs vitamin until you are able to tolerate the prenatal.
Can I eat deli meat?
Pasteurized meats that are packaged separately and sold in the meat/cheese section of the store are safe. Meats and cheese sold from the deli where the clerk uses the same slicer for all things may contain listeria and can be harmful. Avoid unpasteurized foods and make sure to cook thoroughly your meats.
Can I take a bath when I am pregnant?
Yes, but be sure the temperature of the water does not exceed 98-100 degrees.
Can I go to the dentist?
Yes! Please keep good oral hygiene as oral infections can start preterm labor. You will probably need a note from the obstetrician's office before being seen by the dentist.
Can I travel when I am pregnant?
Yes. Most obstetricians will allow travel up to 30-34 weeks. International travel could be dangerous and is discourgaed. Please be sure to get up and move around every 2 hours to avoid blood clots forming in your legs. You are at an increased risk for this while pregnant.
Can I keep my cat?
Yes, but be sure to have someone else clean the litter box to avoid exposure to toxoplasmosis.
If I am having a lot of pelvic pain, should I get an ultrasound?
There are many reasons for pelvic pain and an evaluation by the nurse/doctor is necessary before having an ultraound.
I have been diagnosed with ovarian cysts, is that bad?
Every time your ovary makes an egg it will make a 1-2 cm cyst. It usually gets reabsorbed and goes away. Sometimes it gets larger. Sometimes it takes a while to go away. Occassionally, it may need surgery to remove. Therefore, it is normal to make a cyst each month. Any ovarian cyst after menopause should be evaluated by a physician.
Can I exercise while I am pregnant?
If you exercised before pregnancy and you are not having any bleeding then you may continue exercising. Stop all high impact activities like off-road riding, motor boat riding and horse back riding. Avoid all straining if you are lifting weights. Keeping tone is fine, but no muscle mass building should be done during pregnancy.
How do I pre-register with the hospital?
Kingwood medical center allows you to register at their site: www.kingwoodmedical.com.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
There are "new patient" forms that can be printed from the home page to be filled out and brought with you. Please also know the first day of your last menstrual cycle (if applicable) and a list of the medicines you take. You need your driver's license and insurance card as well. If you have any records/labs from a previous physician you can bring a copy of that too.
When should someone have their first female exam?
Many young girls have problems with their menstrual cycle and may need a discussion with us for that reason at any age. A talk with us before someone becomes sexually active is encouraged. Once a female is sexually active an exam is encouraged every year. Pap smears (tests for cervical cancer) will start at age 21.
When can I stop coming to the gynecologist?
Never! During your yearly exam we are not only checking for cervical/vaginal wall cancer, but also uterine, ovarian and breast cancer whose risk increases with age. We screen your blood pressure and weight and will help monitor your screening for cholesterol, diabetes and thyroid disease.
What happens during a pelvic exam?
During a pelvic exam the gynecologist will use a speculum to help him/her get to the cervix which is at the bottom of the uterus. A tissue sample may or may not be taken from the cervix. After removing the speculum the gynecologist will do a bimanual exam where he/she traps the internal anatomy between their hands to look for any abnormalities.
What are my options for birth control?
Please see the attached sheet for a summary, but to simplify there are hormonal options and non-hormonal options. If you are breast feeding it is best to avoid estrogen in the birth control to keep good milk production. Tubal sterilization/occlusions should only be done if you are completely sure that your family is complete.
I am having hot flashes and night sweats. Does this mean I am menopausal?
Menopause is defined as not having a menstrual cycle for 12 months. However, it more basically means when your ovaries stop producing estrogen at the same level. The symptoms could also be from other causes and a good discussion should be had with the gynecologist to evaluate the cause and talk about the treatment options.
Is all vaginal discharge a yeast infection?
No! It turns out most vaginal discharge is a result of a bacterial infection. An exam by the doctor is the only way to diagnose which is the cause.
Is it normal to have irregular spotting when starting a new birth control?
Absolutely. Expect the unexpected. If it continues, be sure to contact the doctor to discuss the options.
What are the signs that I am in labor?
Labor means regular contractions with cervical change. If the contractions are at least every 3-5 minutes and are painful enough to take your breath away then you may be in active labor. Latent labor can last for several hours to days and has less painful contractions that are regular in timing.
What do I do if I think I broke my water?
Call the doctor's office immediately.
What are some warning signs that I am in preterm labor?
Some women go into preterm labor with very few symptoms or pain, but usually the woman will have 4 or more contractions per hour with a cramping/aching feeling in the pelvis. A lower back ache may be present that lasts for abour 45 seconds and then goes away, but returns minutes later.
Is bleeding in pregnancy normal?
Many pregnancies have first trimester spotting. It often is caused by the inside lining of the uterus breaking free just inside the cervix and is no risk to the pregnancy. The doctor will evaluate and may put the patient on pelvic rest. Bed rest has not been proven to prevent miscarriage. If there is cramping that becomes severe or bleeding that is soaking a pad every 1-2 hours, then call the doctor.
What do I do if I think I have postpartum depression?
If you are crying all of the time and are having a hard time bonding with the baby then you may have postpartum depression. You need to call the doctor's office. In Texas you may also call 1-877-472-1002 for their help line. If you have any thoughts of committing suicide or harming the baby then please go to the nearest emergency room.
What medicines are safe in pregnancy?
Please see the attached sheet. Only vitamins are a category A drug. There are several medicines that are category B, but most are unknown risk and are category C. There are times where a category C drug is necessary. If there are proven risks to the baby then they get a category D or X. You should not take any D or X drugs while pregnant.
What is the HPV virus?
The Human Papilloma Virus is the virus that is the cause of most cervical and vaginal wall cancers. Some strains of the virus are also responsible for genital warts. There are 2 vaccines now that try to provide protection against this virus just like the hepatitis vaccine and the measles/mumps/rubella vaccines. It is best to provide protection against the virus by getting the vaccine before the onset of intercourse. Therefor, it is most effective in young girls and boys before they even contemplate having sex.
Why is my due date 40 weeks?
We date a pregnancy at the time of the last menstrual cycle which is usually two weeks before ovulation and fertilization. This adds a couple of extra weeks and makes the due date 40 weeks. Full term is 37- 40 weeks for a single baby.
How many ultrasounds will I have in my pregnancy?
Most doctor's will ultrasound at the first appointment to accurately tell how far along the pregnancy is. You may choose genetic screening that includes an ultrasound between 11 and 14 weeks. There will also be an anatomical scan around 20 weeks to check on the general anatomy of the baby. That will be all of the scans unless the doctor thinks there is an indication for another one.
When should I see the doctor if I am pregnant?
Most obstetricians would like to see you for the first time between 6 and 10 weeks. It is early enough to get a good dating ultrasound and to offer genetic screening.
What should I do if I am not 6 weeks pregnant yet but I am having bleeding and pelvic pain?
Immediately be seen either by your doctor or by an emergency physician. We must rule out an ectopic pregnancy ( a pregnancy in the tube or somewhere other than the uterus).
Should I take a prenatal vitamin?
Yes. Please start with an over the counter prenatal vitamin until you get a prescription from your doctore. If your nausea is too bad from the vitamin then at least try a childs vitamin until you are able to tolerate the prenatal.
Can I eat deli meat?
Pasteurized meats that are packaged separately and sold in the meat/cheese section of the store are safe. Meats and cheese sold from the deli where the clerk uses the same slicer for all things may contain listeria and can be harmful. Avoid unpasteurized foods and make sure to cook thoroughly your meats.
Can I take a bath when I am pregnant?
Yes, but be sure the temperature of the water does not exceed 98-100 degrees.
Can I go to the dentist?
Yes! Please keep good oral hygiene as oral infections can start preterm labor. You will probably need a note from the obstetrician's office before being seen by the dentist.
Can I travel when I am pregnant?
Yes. Most obstetricians will allow travel up to 30-34 weeks. International travel could be dangerous and is discourgaed. Please be sure to get up and move around every 2 hours to avoid blood clots forming in your legs. You are at an increased risk for this while pregnant.
Can I keep my cat?
Yes, but be sure to have someone else clean the litter box to avoid exposure to toxoplasmosis.
If I am having a lot of pelvic pain, should I get an ultrasound?
There are many reasons for pelvic pain and an evaluation by the nurse/doctor is necessary before having an ultraound.
I have been diagnosed with ovarian cysts, is that bad?
Every time your ovary makes an egg it will make a 1-2 cm cyst. It usually gets reabsorbed and goes away. Sometimes it gets larger. Sometimes it takes a while to go away. Occassionally, it may need surgery to remove. Therefore, it is normal to make a cyst each month. Any ovarian cyst after menopause should be evaluated by a physician.
Can I exercise while I am pregnant?
If you exercised before pregnancy and you are not having any bleeding then you may continue exercising. Stop all high impact activities like off-road riding, motor boat riding and horse back riding. Avoid all straining if you are lifting weights. Keeping tone is fine, but no muscle mass building should be done during pregnancy.
How do I pre-register with the hospital?
Kingwood medical center allows you to register at their site: www.kingwoodmedical.com.