Ask Mercy Mom

You've come to the right place.

At Mercy Birthplace, our wish for you is the healthiest possible pregnancy and the best start in life for your new baby. And we know you have lots of questions. Let our group of Mercy doctors and nurses answer your most frequently asked questions. Click on the Q&As below to find expert advice to your questions.

Always remember, the Internet can’t replace the advice of your doctor. The recommendations provided here are not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your Mercy physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.

Breastfeeding

• Are breastfed babies healthier?

• I don't think that I want to breastfeed around other people.

• I've heard that some mothers don't have enough milk. Will that happen to me?

• Do I have to stop breastfeeding when I go back to work?

• Will breastfeeding make my breasts sag?

• How can I help my baby's father to not feel left out while I breastfeed?

• Can I become pregnant while breastfeeding?

• How do I create the same bonding experience through bottle-feeding as I do through breastfeeding?
  

Fertility

• I have been trying to become pregnant for a year now and have been unsuccessful. When should I start to worry about the possibility of infertility?

• How does an irregular period affect my chances of conceiving?
  

Labor and delivery

• What are my pain relief options during labor besides an epidural?

• Should I be pre-admitted to the hospital before I go into labor?

• What safeguards are in place for my baby's security in the hospital?

• What is infant rooming-in?

• How will I know when I'm in labor?

• What role does my nurse play during labor and delivery?
  

Nutrition and Exercise

• What are the recommendations for exercise during each stage of my pregnancy?

• What types of food and drink (caffeine, chocolate, etc.) should I stay away from when I am pregnant?

• How much weight should I expect to gain during each stage of my pregnancy?

• What can I do to help avoid or ease morning sickness?

• How does the stress level at my job effect a healthy pregnancy?

• What are the precautions that I can take to avoid stretch marks?
  

Prenatal Care

• My husband and I are thinking about trying to conceive. What should I be doing before I get pregnant?

• What month should I start pre-natal care?

• Should I take pre-natal vitamins before I become pregnant?
  What supplements should I take during my pregnancy?

• What tests should I expect to be performed on me during my pregnancy?
  

Risks

• What if I was unaware that I was pregnant and consumed alcohol? Can this harm the baby?

• What about the risk of second hand smoke?

• What substances (household chemicals, x-rays, ect.) should I avoid during my pregnancy?

• Are there concerns I should be aware of if I am having a baby later in life?

• How long should I wait to become pregnant if I have miscarried?
  

What about dad?

• What are the best ways to involve my husband during my pregnancy?

• How can I help my baby's father to not feel left out while I breastfeed?