You’re pregnant and likely filled with excitement. There are plenty of fun things to think about, like what color to paint the nursery and that magical moment when you first lay eyes on your little one.
You might also notice, however, that a new question enters your brain about every other minute, from what activities are safe to engage in for the next nine months, to what you should eat, and more.
Fortunately, Dr. Peter Khamvongsa and his able team at the Miami Institute for Women’s Health are well equipped to answer these questions — and many more. Their combined expertise and Dr. Khamvongsa’s dedication to his patients mean that you’re in excellent hands if you’re preparing for pregnancy, already expecting, or a new mom.
The adage “Knowledge is power” was never truer than when you’re pregnant. You may feel like you’re in a steep learning curve in terms of discovering things you never knew about your body, how you approach new experiences, and more.
By talking frankly with Dr. Khamvongsa about the most obvious questions that emerge as you travel through pregnancy, and the unexpected ones that pop up at random times, you can approach these nine months with enthusiasm and confidence.
We’ve thought of some of the most important questions moms-to-be ask Dr. Khamvongsa, so you can get these answers right away.
This is a top inquiry of pregnant moms, and the answer’s simpler than you may think. Focus on consuming a variety of healthy foods — a “rainbow plate” full of colorful fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and calcium-rich foods like yogurt. Remember to take your prenatal vitamin also.
That said, you should avoid things like unpasteurized dairy products and juice, fish high in mercury such as swordfish, and soft cheeses like brie.
Finally, stay well hydrated and don’t drink alcohol when you’re expecting.
Exercise is a must for a healthy pregnancy, but refrain from certain activities depending on which trimester you’re in. Dr. Khamvongsa can offer specific guidance on this.
Feel free to enjoy walking, stationary cycling, yoga, strength training, and swimming, which all offer gentle but good workouts that help both you and your baby.
Especially later in pregnancy, your balance can become a little “off,” so talk to your doctor about whether activities like running and tennis are safe as your pregnancy progresses.
You should avoid exercises with a high likelihood of sustaining a fall, such as skiing and horseback riding, as well as contact sports like softball. Overall, it’s best also to be careful not to exercise when it’s really hot and humid.
Dr. Khamvongsa typically reviews your vaccine and medical history to come up with an individualized answer for you.
In general, however, it’s critical that you’re up to date on your Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine because babies can develop serious complications from pertussis, or whooping cough, a serious respiratory illness. If you’re up to date on this vaccine, you can convey some immunity to your baby now. Get your shot sometime between your 27th and 36th week of pregnancy.
Also important is getting your flu vaccine, as you’re more vulnerable during pregnancy.
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is also important if you’re pregnant, and it’s safe. Pregnant women have a higher chance of more severe illness with COVID, so that’s why you should be sure to get vaccinated.
Dr. Khamvongsa performs genetic screening tests at various intervals during your pregnancy for fetal abnormalities like Down syndrome and inherited disorders like sickle cell disease.
It’s important to realize that testing indicates a higher or lower risk level for a problem, and isn’t definitive.
A pregnancy can be considered high-risk for many reasons, from advanced maternal age (over 35 years of age) to whether a mom-be is living with a chronic condition like diabetes or has a history of miscarriage.
All this means is that Dr. Khamvongsa monitors you more carefully and sees you for office visits more often. He discusses additional things you might need to watch during your pregnancy. Since he’s more vigilant with your care, try to consider it a comfort rather than something worrisome.
We know all sorts of questions abound as you await your baby’s arrival, and that this is just a short list. We’re here to make sure your pregnancy is comfortable and safe, and that you feel confident about your prenatal care and upcoming birth.
Call our multilingual office at 786-220-2184 to schedule a prenatal visit or request one online.
