Group Beta Strep (GBS)

• This is a culture we take of the vagina and rectum looking for a bacteria called Group Beta Strep

• This will be done at about 36 weeks as well as a possible cervical check

• You will be asked to undress from the waist down

• This bacteria may be present in the vagina and rectum area and causes no harm to you

• However, this bacteria can make the baby sick

• If the test comes back negative then nothing needs to be done

• If the test comes back positive then we will give you antibiotics during labor

• Make sure you ask your doctor what the result was at your next visit

What to Expect

Braxton Hicks

Cause
Tightening of the uterus that may or may not be felt
This is your uterus preparing itself and your cervix for labor
Described as a “tightening” sensation
Contractions are irregular
Interval does not change
Discomfort relieved by rest
Discomfort usually in the lower abdomen
 

What to do

• If you notice them, rest

• The frequency should decrease

• Can take a warm bath or shower

• Empty your bladder

• Increase fluids

• If contractions persist, contact your provider or go to Labor & Deliver.

Exercise

• Continue to exercise at least 30 minutes a day 5 times a week

• Common Discomforts
   

Heartburn
 

Cause

• Increase in the hormone progesterone

• Relaxation of the opening between esophagus and stomach

• Slowed emptying of the stomach and intestines

• Increase in uterine size

• Worse in 2nd and 3rd trimester

What to do

• Small, frequent meals

• Low-fat meals (fat slows the emptying of stomach and intestines)

• Decrease cold drinks with meals

• Sit upright for at least 1 hour after eating

• Sleep with 2-3 pillows at night

• Maalox, Mylanta or Tums for symptom relief

• Prevacid, Pepcid, or Tagamet over-the-counter for symptom prevention

Tingling and Numbness in Fingers (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)

Cause 

• Caused by water retention and swelling

What to do

• Tylenol Extra Strength every 4 to 6 hours

• Wrist splints found in drug stores

 

Swelling of Legs and Feet

Cause 

• Slowed return of blood from feet and legs due to growing uterus

What to do

• No constrictive clothing

• Support hose

• Elevate legs every 2-3 hours above your heart

• Lay on the side instead of back

Itching Of Skin

Cause

• Itching, especially of the palms of the hands or soles of the feet an be common and normal

What to do

• Inform your provider immediately in order to rule our a dangerous condition that can occur in pregnancy called Cholestasis.

What is Happening?

• Your baby is preparing to enter into the world

• The brain and nervous system are maturing

• Limbs are becoming smooth and plump

• Skin is a healthy color

• Fingernails are growing past the fingertips

• If your baby is a boy the testicles have nearly completed their descent outside the body into the scrotum

• Your baby is acquiring immunity to may infections as the protective antibodies in your blood pass through the placenta into the baby’s blood

• Breathing movements are continued to be practiced

• Your baby weighs about 5 pounds and is about 17 inches long from head to toe