Congratulations!
Pregnancy can be the most memorable and frightening experience. It puts out front many hopes and dreams for ourselves and our families. Prematurity Prevention Initiative is here to support those hopes and dreams with worthwhile information, programs, and services. We send our sincere best wishes and hope to become your partner in a healthy birth.
Signs or Symptoms Of Preterm Labor
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Change in your vaginal discharge (watery, mucus or bloody) or more vaginal discharge than usual
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Pressure in your pelvis or lower belly, like your baby is pushing down
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Constant low, dull backache
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Belly cramps with or without diarrhea
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Regular or frequent contractions that make your belly tighten like a fist. The contractions may or may not be painful.
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Your water breaks **
It is important to have an open dialogue with your provider, giving them a detailed history of all previous pregnancies to determine the best course of treatment for any current or future pregnancies.
Prenatal Schedule
One of the first things to do when pregnant is to schedule a visit with your OB/GYN. It will be the first of many visits. All of which are important to monitor the baby's development and your health.
Use our prenatal schedule to plan this journey and build a strong relationship with those who will assist you in delivering a healthy baby.
Signs or Symptoms Of Preterm Labor
-
Change in your vaginal discharge (watery, mucus or bloody) or more vaginal discharge than usual
-
Pressure in your pelvis or lower belly, like your baby is pushing down
-
Constant low, dull backache
-
Belly cramps with or without diarrhea
-
Regular or frequent contractions that make your belly tighten like a fist. The contractions may or may not be painful.
-
Your water breaks **
It is important to have an open dialogue with your provider, giving them a detailed history of all previous pregnancies to determine the best course of treatment for any current or future pregnancies.
Personalize Your Birth Plan
A birth plan is all about you. It details your preferences for labor and delivery. What you think will make the experience more comfortable – for you.
Must Include
Who is your support person (s)
If you are considering interventions
Your comfort level with I.V.’s/ fluid intake,
If you want an epidural
Making it Work
Schedule out blocks of time in your birth plan.
Everything may not go as planned. Still, it is important to list your preferences
Discuss your plan with support person(s)
Share your plan with your provider. (Consider writing a letter)
When everyone understands your wishes, they can better advocate for you and your baby.
Remember
If Something Feels Wrong, Speak Up
Lean on Family and Friends
Find local groups for African-American/Black Mothers/ Parents
Do Not Avoid Postpartum Check UPs
African American Birthing People
African American women have risk-factors that impact their pregnancies in different ways. Knowing your risks and talking to your provider is critical to having a successful, healthy pregnancy. Please download the list of suggested questions to guide your next prenatal visit.
