Pregnancy Resources
Pregnancy Resources
Congratulations on your pregnancy! You probably will have many questions about pregnancy and childbirth and what to expect over the next several months. Below please find information that we hope will be helpful for you, and know that we are here to support you every step of the way. We also encourage you to sign up for MyHealth Online, a secure, web-based portal that allows you to access portions of your health record and communicate with our office about non-urgent matters.
Pregnancy Care at Atrius Health
Atrius Health provides OB/Gyn care and services at 14 practice locations and delivers at 4 hospitals. We can provide the type of care that you prefer in the location that is most convenient for you. Our Prenatal Care Overview describes in more detail what happens at your visits, the members of your care team and their roles, and your options for how you receive care with us.
Before coming in for your first visit it is important to confirm that your health insurance will cover both your office visits with our providers and the hospital care where you choose to deliver. Please see our Insurance Coverage handout to help you ask all the right questions of your insurer when you call. Once you have scheduled your visit, please complete the complete the questionnaires that will be sent to you via MyHealth.
You Are Pregnant! What to Expect...
Your body undergoes many changes as your baby develops. Although it is a normal process, you may start to notice signs and symptoms quite early in the pregnancy. We have provided an overview of common symptoms of pregnancy and how to cope with the discomforts.
Keeping You and Your Baby Healthy
Every woman wants to have a healthy pregnancy. With good prenatal care and diet, most women do. Your lifestyle and habits make a big difference to your baby’s health as well as your own. Please see these tips on preparing for a healthy pregnancy, which explain what you can do and what you should avoid to keep both of you healthy. It also describes how pregnancy may affect many aspects of your day-to-day life.
Testing in Pregnancy
When you are pregnant there are different types of screening and testing that are offered. Some screening is to detect complications that you could be having, others are to detect possible issues with your baby. There is also testing that can sometimes take place to check on baby's well-being.
Preparation for Labor and Delivery
As you progress in your pregnancy, it’s important that you recognize the signs and cues your body is giving you that signal your baby is ready to be born. You will need to know when and who you should call to go to the hospital, and you also need to plan for your hospital experience.
Delivery Paperwork
All hospitals require a consent form and your care provider will give it to you later in pregnancy. It is advisable to complete a Health Care Proxy if you have not already done so. We have Release of Information forms available to you if you need them for a Leave from work or other reason.
Preparing for Baby's Arrival
As you get closer to delivery there is an additional screening and an immunization that is recommended to protect your baby. You will also need to choose a Pediatrician and think about pain relief in labor, cord blood banking and, if you are having a boy, circumcision. You will need to purchase a car seat before the baby is born.Once the baby arrives you should know about screenings and immunizations your baby will receive in the hospital.
Breastfeeding
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (although any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial). Scientific studies have shown that breastfeeding is good for your health, too. Atrius Health offers support to breastfeeding moms.
Post-Partum
The first few weeks after the baby is born are a time of adjustment. If you are breastfeeding it may take some time to get the hang of it. It is important to consider birth control options soon after delivery. When you bring your baby home, it’s important to make sure he or she has a safe sleep environment.Your pediatrician will help guide you through this exciting time with your new baby. If you choose a pediatrician at Atrius Health, you will have access to medical advice 24/7 by calling the office, day or night. By enrolling in MyHealth Online, our secure, web-based portal, you will also be able to access portions of your baby’s health record and communicate with your pediatrician's office about non-urgent matters.