Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What medications are safe during pregnancy?
Q: How do I know if I'm in labor?
A: This is a very common question, especially for first time moms. The most obvious sign is pain with contractions. Many people confuse Braxton-Hicks contractions with true labor contractions. Unlike Braxton-Hicks contractions, true labor contractions become stronger, longer, and more frequent. True labor contractions start to occur in a regular pattern, occurring as often as 2-5 minutes, whereas Braxton-Hicks contractions remain irregular in frequency. Membranes rupturing can also be a sign of labor and an important reason to notify your healthcare provider.
Q: What is a written birth plan? Do I need that?
A: A written birth plan is a document that explains your wishes and preferences during the labor process. This document is signed and given to the medical team to be implemented in your medical care. These preferences include how to manage pain during labor, who you prefer to have in the delivery room, if you would like pictures and videos during labor, if you would like to move around during labor, etc…If you have specific wishes during the birthing process, it is important to discuss these wishes with your healthcare provider.
Q: What are some signs of labor?
A: There are many signs indicating early labor as well as active labor. An early sign of labor includes something referred to as "lightening," where the baby drops lower into the pelvis, relieving some of the pressure on your diaphragm. You may also start to notice bloody show or loss of your mucus plug. You may notice Braxton-Hicks contractions becoming stronger and more intense. Early labor contractions may feel like menstrual cramps or intermittent back pains that may be as far apart as 20 to 30 minutes. True labor contractions become regular, progressively stronger, progressively closer, and progressively stronger.
Q: How can childbirth classes help my labor?
A: Childbirth classes help prepare you for the actual labor process. Classes help you to gather information, as well as ease your anxiety regarding labor and delivery. You will have an instructor who will educate you on what to expect during labor, as well as answer any questions and address any fears you may have. Childbirth classes generally address issues such as positioning for labor and birth, relaxation and massage techniques, labor support, and breastfeeding. Your instructor will also discuss pain relief options, and if you choose to have a natural birth, classes can be very helpful in teaching breathing exercises and positions to assist with pain control.
Q: What are some guidelines I should follow during post-partum?
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COVID-19 Patient Update
Dear Patients,
We hope you are staying safe and social distancing during this crazy time of COVID-19. Our office is still seeing all patients while phone screening the day before your appointments and screening at the check-in window. At this time only patients will be allowed in our office. We thank you for your patience as we attempt to keep our office safe for you and our staff.
All OB patients should please plan to keep their appointments. Patients who are scheduled for annual visits are also being seen. However, if you begin to experience any symptoms or if you have been exposed to anyone with COVID-19, please call our office to reschedule your appointment to a later date.
If you are experiencing a problem and need to be seen, please call our office for an appointment. We will make every effort to see you in a timely manner. When appropriate, we may schedule a telemedicine visit.
Thank you for allowing Sharp and Stone OB/Gyn to provide your care.
Where to Find Us
2700 10th Avenue South
Building 2, Suite 306
Birmingham, AL 35205
Phone: (205) 933-4020
Fax: (205) 933-4022