Our office is open with regular hours. We follow the CDC guidelines regarding facial covering recommendations, patients MUST wear a mask into our offices. If you do not, your appointment will be rescheduled. For Important Office and Appointment Updates During COVID-19 Click here. For information on Sentara Princess Anne Labor and Maternity Visitors Hours, Click Here. For a word on Our Commitment to Changing the Culture of Medicine and Eliminating Racial Disparities in Women's Health Outcomes, click here.

This advice is not a substitute for any instructions your doctor has previously given you in the office. This is routine pregnancy advice, in normal low risk pregnancies.

Urinary Tract Infections

A Urinary Tract Infection, or UTI is an infection in either the kidneys or the bladder.

  • Symptoms include but are not limited to pain or burning with urination, frequency and urgency, blood in the urine, or foul smelling urine.
  • Pregnant women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections.

Fortunately, there are some preventions.

  • Drink plenty of water, at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Drink cranberry juice, that is 100% juice without added sugar or corn syrup, at least 2-3 glasses daily.
  • Avoid sodas, tea, coffee, and alcohol intake. Bacteria love sugar and caffeine.
  • Urinate immediately after intercourse to flush out any bacteria.
  • Empty your bladder every 4 hours or as needed to prevent bladder distention.
  • Do not take frequent bubble baths. Wipe the perineum from front to back after urinating. Keep the perineal area clean and dry. Wear cotton underwear and no douching.
  • If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics for you, take the complete course even if you are feeling better. All of the medicine should be taken to prevent a recurrent UTI.

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite that can harm an unborn baby.

  • Avoid handling cat litter, it’s ok to pet your cat and hold him.
  • Wear gloves when gardening.
  • Do not eat undercooked meats.

 LCMV

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus is carried by rodents, including pet hamsters and guinea pigs. LCMV can cause abnormalities in pregnancy.

  • Avoid all rodents.
  • Do not handle rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials.
  • Wash your hands if you must handle rodents, and avoid touching your mouth or eyes.

Listeriosis

Listeriosis is an infection caused by bacteria in unpasteurized or undercooked foods. It can be treated with antibiotics, but it is best to prevent the infection first.

  • Cook raw foods thoroughly, such as beef, pork, poultry, and fish.
  • Wash all vegetables/fruits before eating.
  • Avoid unpasteurized milk.
  • Avoid soft cheeses, such as brie, camembert, and blue veined cheeses.
  • Cook hot dogs before eating.
  • The risk of deli meats being contaminated with listeriosis is extremely low, as long as the deli is clean.  To be safe you can microwave any deli sandwiches.