The Women's Health Group

Obstetrics Education Information

Discomfort in the last month of pregnancy:

• Low Backache – This discomfort is common in the last month of pregnancy. An effort to maintain good posture and avoid standing for long periods of time will help. Also, elevating your feet several times per day will help as well.
• Swelling – Many factors can cause swelling in your last month of pregnancy, including hot weather, standing too long and circulation changes caused by your growing uterus. The best remedy for swelling at the end of pregnancy is to rest on your side a couple times per day and/or elevate your feet. It is also imperative that you stay well hydrated.
• Constipation – Continue to eat fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water. You may safely use an over-the-counter stool softener.
• Heartburn – Antacids relieve much of this discomfort. Eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding greasy foods and bedtime snacks will help as well. If liquid antacids are not effective, you may try Pepcid or Axid.

Signs of Approaching Labor — Labor begins in a number of ways:

• Loss of Mucus Plug – This sign does not necessarily mean that labor is approaching. This may even occur several weeks before labor. It may be associated with a small amount of pink or red discharge.
• Contractions – A tightening of the uterus usually begins irregularly. When they occur every five minutes or closer and are painful, you should report to the hospital. It is not necessary to call your care provider first.
• Rupture of Membranes – If you experience a large gush of water vaginally or a continued uncontrolled leakage, you should report to the hospital.
• Vaginal Bleeding – Any large amount of bleeding should be discussed with your care provider or evaluated at the hospital. You may have a small amount of pink discharge during the early phase of labor or after having a cervical exam.
• Fetal Movement – Your baby should have at least 10 movements in two hours time. You should asses this daily. The baby should continue moving during labor. If your baby has decreased movement, you should call the office or report to the hospital.

Reasons to Report to the Hospital:

• Bleeding – If you experience bright red vaginal bleeding that is free of mucus (resembles a menstrual flow) or you pass several clots bigger than a walnut, you should report to the hospital immediately. Upon reporting to the hospital, a Labor and Delivery nurse will begin an evaluation and then communicate with one of our doctors regarding your care.
• Rupture of Membranes – If your water breaks (see above description), report to the hospital. Once the bag of waters ruptures, it is necessary to remain at the hospital until your baby is born.

Instructions on Reporting to the Hospital:

• Before 9 pm enter through the main doors on the north side of the hospital (Mercy Regional). Check in at the front desk. The receptionist will alert Labor and Delivery of your arrival and direct you where to go.
• After 9 pm enter through the Emergency Room.

Because we have a doctor on call 24 hours a day, it is not necessary to call the doctor before going to the hospital. The doctor on call needs the information about your blood pressure, your bag of water status, your cervical dilation and your baby’s status. None of this can be determined over the telephone, so if you meet the above criteria, go to the hospital so the doctor can gather necessary information to provide the best possible care.