Pregnancy & Women’s Health FAQs
in Jacksonville, FL
Every stage of a woman’s life brings new questions. Whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, navigating symptoms, or focusing on your long-term health, our Jacksonville OBGYN team is here to guide you with clarity and compassion.
Below you’ll find answers organized by where you may be in your journey.
If something doesn’t feel right, call our Jacksonville office. We are always here for you.
For emergencies, call 911.
Thinking About Pregnancy
Yes, Flu and Tdap vaccines are recommended. COVID-19 vaccination is supported by national obstetric organizations. We’ll review timing at your visit.
No, there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Smoking and recreational drugs increase risks for both mother and baby. We provide confidential support.
Early Pregnancy: What’s Normal?
Yes, morning sickness is common early in pregnancy. Helpful tips:
Small frequent meals
Ginger or peppermint
Vitamin B6
Staying hydrated
Call if you cannot keep fluids down for more than 24 hours.
Commonly used medications may include acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, docusate, famotidine, and plain cough medicines. Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin, and multi-symptom blends. Always check with us first.
Call immediately for heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fever over 100.4°F. For emergencies, call 911.
As Your Baby Grows
After 24 weeks, most women feel regular daily movement. If you notice a significant decrease or no movement for 8 hours, call our office.
A Non-Stress Test checks your baby’s heart rate and movement. It may be recommended if you have high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or other concerns.
Mild swelling of the feet and ankles is common. Call immediately if swelling is sudden or accompanied by headache or vision changes.
Small meals, increased fluids, and gentle movement can help. Pepcid, Colace, or senna may be used as directed.
Travel is generally safe in uncomplicated pregnancies, though we do not recommend air travel during the third trimester. Moderate exercise is encouraged unless otherwise advised.
Signs of Labor & When to Call
Call if:
Contractions are 5–7 minutes apart for over an hour
Contractions increase in intensity
You experience a gush or leaking of fluid
You have bright red bleeding
We are available 24 hours a day.
What should I expect postpartum?
Bleeding, breast changes, mood shifts, and healing are all part of recovery. Avoid intercourse until cleared at your postpartum visit.
Call for heavy bleeding, fever, severe pain, signs of infection, or concerning mood changes.
Gynecology & Preventive Care
Possible causes include fibroids, hormonal changes, PCOS, thyroid conditions, or polyps. Bleeding after menopause should always be evaluated.
Seek care if you soak through a pad hourly, pass large clots, or feel weak from blood loss.
Heavy periods, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, and pain with intercourse.
Endometriosis occurs when uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pelvic pain and sometimes fertility challenges.
Irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight changes, and difficulty conceiving.
Most women ages 21–65 need screening every 3–5 years depending on history.
