How to Prepare for Your First Pregnancy Ultrasound
Ultrasounds provide a safe and effective way of viewing your growing baby. Read on to learn more about why they are done and what you can expect at the appointment.
COVID-19 has upended our lives in a wide variety of ways, including impacting our non-virus-related healthcare. However, as we settle into the "new normal," it's important to return focus to our other medical needs to make sure we remain as healthy as possible. Gynecological care is one of these areas.
Located in Demorest, Georgia, Dr. Thomas Hatchett and our highly trained staff at Habersham OBGYN understand the importance of offering state-of-the-art integrative health care services to women. Whether you need preventive care, treatment for a reproductive system issue, prenatal or obstetrics services or more, we provide innovative care, flexible scheduling, and are taking all precautions possible to keep you safe and healthy.
Caused by the coronavirus, COVID-19 has many different symptoms that can vary by individual. Some include a cough and/or trouble breathing, fever, and stomach issues like nausea and diarrhea. A number of people also lose their sense of taste or smell. Typically, symptoms show up anywhere from 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
Many people may wonder if they should go to a doctor's office during this time. For the sake of your health and to help prevent the spread of illness to others, some appointments may be conducted by video or over the phone when possible. However, there are some situations which are urgent and may require you being seen by a doctor or other staff member.
Some examples of serious situations include severe vaginal bleeding, a fever (non-COVID-19-related) or vaginal infection, or an issue with recovery after a surgery or other procedure. A suspected ectopic pregnancy with pelvic, abdominal, or lower back pain should also be evaluated and diagnosed in person.
If an office visit is required, we will take precautions, including asking health questions up front to help determine if there is any chance a patient could be ill with COVID-19. We also follow rigorous cleaning protocols and wear masks among other things.
Being pregnant can add an additional layer of concern to overall pandemic-related anxiety, especially with the virus being so new. While researchers are learning more each day, so far it appears that pregnant women are not at an increased risk of infection or suffering severe symptoms compared with non-pregnant people. However, just as individuals in the general population who have diabetes, heart disease, or lung issues seem to have greater odds of becoming severely ill, pregnant women with these issues may also be at higher risk.
Everyone — but especially pregnant women — should take precautions as much as possible to protect against contracting the virus. People should wash their hands thoroughly and frequently or use hand sanitizer that has at least a 60% alcohol content. Avoid contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth and keep away from people who are ill. Stay home as much as possible and when out, try to keep a distance of six feet or more from others.
Whether you have a gynecological issue or are pregnant, we can help you navigate your health care during this unsettling time in a manner that is as thorough and safe as possible. Book online or call our office at 706-754-3997 today to put a plan in place.
