New Year Travel While Pregnant: Safe Tips For The Road And Sky

,

The new year often mean hugs, favorite foods, and time with your people. If you are pregnant, they can also bring questions about when and how to travel safely. You can enjoy the season with confidence by planning around your trimester, prioritizing hydration and movement, and knowing the signs that mean it is time to pause and call. This guide answers the most common questions we hear in prenatal visits so you can travel with comfort and peace of mind.

Is it safe to fly during pregnancy, and when?

For most healthy pregnancies, air travel is safe through the second trimester and into the early third, typically up to 36 weeks for domestic flights, provided you have no complications and your clinician approves. The second trimester often feels best for travel because nausea tends to ease and energy returns. Many airlines require a note from your obstetrician after 28 to 32 weeks, and some have cutoffs for international flights earlier than domestic ones, so check your carrier’s policy before you book and always confirm with your prenatal provider.

If you have placenta previa, risk of preterm labor, poorly controlled hypertension, severe anemia, significant bleeding, or other complications, you may be advised not to fly. Whether you are headed across Georgia or across the country, schedule a quick check-in before your trip to review your plans and get personalized guidance.

How to prevent swelling and clots on long trips

Pregnancy increases the risk of blood clots due to normal changes in blood flow and clotting factors, and long periods of sitting add to that risk. A few simple habits can reduce swelling and keep circulation moving.

  • Hydrate generously. Aim for steady sips of water throughout the day. Bring a refillable bottle and set reminders on your phone.

  • Move often. On flights, stand and walk the aisle every hour. In the car, plan stops to stretch your calves and hips; do ankle circles and gentle foot pumps while seated.

  • Wear compression socks. Graduated knee-high compression helps prevent ankle swelling and supports venous return.

  • Elevate when you can. After you arrive, rest with feet above heart level to reduce edema.

  • Choose an aisle seat. It makes bathroom trips and stretch breaks easier, which helps you stick to your plan.

If you notice one-sided leg swelling, warmth, redness, or pain, or if you feel chest pain or shortness of breath, seek care immediately.

Seatbelt positioning, whether you fly or drive

Always wear a seatbelt. Position the lap belt low and snug under your belly across the hip bones and upper thighs, and place the shoulder belt between your breasts along the side of your belly. Never position the belt over the uterus. Adjust the seat so the steering wheel or airbag is as far from your abdomen as practical while you can still drive safely. On planes, ask for a seatbelt extender if needed so you can keep the belt low and secure.

Managing heartburn and nausea on the road

Travel can disrupt meals and sleep, both of which can aggravate reflux and morning sickness. Try these small changes.

  • Eat small, frequent meals. Choose bland, protein rich snacks such as yogurt, nuts, cheese sticks, or whole grain crackers.

  • Keep ginger chews, peppermint tea bags, or lemon drops in your bag. They can take the edge off queasiness for many.

  • Sit upright after meals. Avoid lying down for at least an hour after eating, and elevate your upper body for sleep if heartburn flares at night.

  • Limit trigger foods. Greasy, spicy, acidic, or very sweet dishes can worsen reflux. Balance festive foods with lighter options.

  • Use approved medications. Ask your obstetrician about vitamin B6, doxylamine, or antacids that are safe for you. Bring what works so you are not hunting for it in an unfamiliar place.

Severe vomiting, dehydration, or persistent inability to keep fluids down warrants a call to your provider.

What to pack for travel while pregnant

A little preparation goes a long way. Pack a small health kit that keeps essentials within reach.

  • Prenatal records. Carry a summary of your pregnancy, medication list, allergies, your due date, blood type, and emergency contacts. A printed copy and a photo on your phone are both useful.

  • Prenatal vitamins and medications. Bring extra in your carry on or purse so a lost bag does not interrupt your regimen.

  • Hydration and snacks. A collapsible bottle, electrolyte packets, protein bars, and nausea friendly options help you stay steady between stops.

  • Compression socks and a lightweight scarf or sweater. Cabin temperatures vary and ankles swell more when you are cold or still for long periods.

  • Insurance card and ID. If you will be near Columbus, GA before or after your trip, remember that our team provides comprehensive prenatal support and can coordinate care if you need a quick visit.

Trimester specific tips

First trimester. Prioritize nausea control, rest, and flexible plans. Book aisle seats, keep snacks handy, and schedule buffer time for bathroom breaks and naps.

Second trimester. Energy is often better. Keep your movement routine, continue strength and pelvic floor exercises approved by your provider, and use compression on longer travel days.

Third trimester. Shorten travel days, build in frequent stops, and keep destinations within a reasonable distance from medical care. Many airlines limit flying late in pregnancy; have a current note from your provider if needed.

When you should not travel

Delay or avoid travel if you have vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, painful or regular contractions, severe headache with vision changes, chest pain or shortness of breath, fever of 100.4 F or higher, severe vomiting with dehydration, significantly decreased fetal movement after 28 weeks, or you have been advised to restrict activity for medical reasons. If you develop a new symptom that worries you, trust your instincts and call.

Know airline and airport policies

Review your airline’s pregnancy policy and documentation requirements, especially after 28 weeks. Learn baggage rules so you can keep medications and records with you. At security, metal detectors and millimeter wave scanners are considered safe in pregnancy; if you prefer a pat down, you can request one. Preboard options, wheelchair assistance, and aisle seating can reduce strain and make the experience smoother.

A note on local support around Columbus, GA

If your new year plans start or end near Columbus, we are here to help. From pre travel check ins to quick reassurance visits, OBGYN Specialists of Columbus provides comprehensive prenatal guidance and support. If you are arranging care locally, learn more about our obstetric team and our columbus obstetric services, including prenatal visit schedules and delivery planning, so you have a trusted touchpoint throughout your journey.

Simple checklist before you go

  • Clear your trip with your obstetrician, especially if you are in the third trimester or have any complications.

  • Confirm airline policies and seating requests, and plan stretch breaks.

  • Pack your health kit with records, medications, snacks, and compression socks.

  • Map nearby urgent care or hospital options at your destination and along your route.

  • Share your itinerary and emergency contact information with a family member.

Bottom line

New year travel during pregnancy can be safe and satisfying with a bit of planning and a lot of listening to your body. Hydrate, move often, wear your seatbelt correctly, manage heartburn and nausea with small, consistent habits, and carry the essentials that keep you comfortable. Most of all, stay connected to your care team. If you have questions about your specific situation, or if your plans bring you near Columbus, call OBGYN Specialists of Columbus for personalized guidance and support. We are honored to partner with you in a season of celebration and in every stage of your pregnancy, from the first heartbeat to columbus labor and delivery care when the time is right.

/by

Your First Prenatal Visit: What To Expect at OBGYN Specialists of Columbus

,

Finding out you are pregnant can feel thrilling and a little overwhelming all at once. Your first prenatal visit is your chance to meet a compassionate team, ask every question, and set up a care plan that helps you feel steady, informed, and supported. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus in Midtown, you will find judgment-free care, clear guidance, and a partnership that lasts from your positive test through delivery and beyond.

When to Schedule Your First Prenatal Visit

Most patients are seen for a first prenatal appointment between 7 and 10 weeks of pregnancy, counted from the first day of your last menstrual period. This timing allows us to confirm a pregnancy in the uterus, accurately establish your due date, and see early fetal cardiac activity when appropriate.

If you are high risk, call as soon as you get a positive test so we can see you sooner. You may be high risk if you have:

  • Significant pelvic pain or bleeding

  • History of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy

  • Diabetes or hypertension

  • Fertility treatment

  • Age 35 or older

  • Severe nausea and dehydration

Is 7 Weeks Pregnant Too Early to See a Doctor?

No. For many patients, 7 to 8 weeks is ideal for an initial visit. If you are not sure how far along you are, or if your cycles are irregular, reach out and we will help you choose the best timing.

How to Set Up Your First Pregnancy Appointment

Scheduling is simple. Call our office at (706) 324-0471 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can also request an appointment online, and our team will follow up to confirm your details, preferred dates, and insurance information.

If you are new to our practice or transferring care, let us know so we can help with records. If you need immediate guidance after hours for urgent concerns, call the main number and follow the prompts.

If you are looking for a trusted obstetrician in town, you can learn more about our team and approach to care on our page for Columbus obstetric services.

What Happens at the First Obstetric Appointment

Your visit blends conversation, gentle exams, and planning. Our goal is to answer your questions, listen to your story, and give you a clear next step.

Medical History and Conversation

We will review your health, medications and supplements, prior pregnancies, family history, mental health, and lifestyle. Be honest about tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances, and about any vitamins or herbal products you take. This helps us tailor safe guidance for you and your baby.

Physical Exam and Vitals

We check weight, blood pressure, and may perform a pelvic exam if needed based on symptoms and screening timelines.

Pregnancy Confirmation and Dating

We will confirm the pregnancy, calculate your estimated due date, and discuss an early ultrasound when appropriate to date the pregnancy and assess viability. If an ultrasound is not indicated that day, we will schedule it soon after.

Lab Work

Expect routine prenatal labs, including:

  • Blood type and Rh factor

  • Complete blood count

  • Infectious disease screening

  • Urine testing

Additional tests will be explained based on your symptoms and history.

Genetic Screening Options

We will review first trimester screening options, including noninvasive prenatal testing and carrier screening. These are optional, and we will outline benefits, limitations, and timing so you can make an informed choice.

Nutrition and Hydration Guidance

  • Aim for 8 to 12 glasses of water per day

  • Add fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and calcium-rich foods

  • Keep caffeine moderate

  • Start or continue a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily

Safe Movement

Most patients can continue or start low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and light strength training. Recommendations will be adjusted if you have bleeding, pain, dizziness, or risk factors.

Morning Sickness Support

We offer stepwise strategies for nausea, from small meals and ginger to vitamin B6 or medication if needed.

Your Questions

Bring every question — bleeding, sex, travel, work, sleep, medications, mental health, and next steps are all topics we welcome.

Warning Signs That Need Urgent Care

Call us right away or seek urgent care if you experience:

  • Heavy vaginal bleeding, soaking a pad in an hour, or passing clots

  • Severe lower abdominal or one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder pain, or fainting

  • Fever of 100.4°F or higher

  • Severe vomiting with dehydration (very dark urine or no urination in 8 hours)

  • Inability to keep fluids down

  • Severe headache with vision changes

  • Chest pain or shortness of breath

  • Any sudden, intense symptom that worries you

If you are unsure whether a symptom is urgent, call. We would rather you reach out and feel reassured than wait.

How Many Weeks Pregnant Do You Start Prenatal Care?

Prenatal care typically starts as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, with the comprehensive first visit planned around 7 to 10 weeks.

Some patients need an earlier check-in for labs or a quick viability scan, especially when symptoms or history indicate higher risk.

General schedule:

  • Every 4 weeks until the third trimester

  • Every 2 weeks in the third trimester

  • Weekly close to the due date

We tailor this schedule for each patient.

How We Support Your Whole Pregnancy

You deserve attentive clinical care and the calm that comes from knowing what is next. Our team provides:

  • Clear education at every step

  • Coordination for ultrasound and screening

  • Pregnancy ultrasound 3D/4D Columbus options for later-pregnancy keepsake imaging

  • Practical local guidance for hydration, snacks, and community resources

  • Respectful conversations about mental health and birth planning

If you are comparing practices in the area, you can explore Dr. Rees Columbus GA to learn about our philosophy and commitment to patient partnership.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring:

  • List of medications and supplements with doses

  • Last menstrual period date and home pregnancy test information

  • Insurance card and photo ID

  • Medical records from past pregnancies or specialists

  • Water bottle and a light snack

Hydration the day before and morning of your visit helps reduce headaches, dizziness, and nausea.

Your Next Steps

  • Call (706) 324-0471 or request your appointment online

  • Start or continue a prenatal vitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid

  • Keep sipping water throughout the day

  • Write down your top questions before your visit

The Bottom Line

Your first prenatal visit is about connection, confirmation, and a personalized plan. You will review your history, complete key labs, discuss genetic options, plan ultrasound timing, and leave with clear guidance on vitamins, hydration, movement, and urgent symptoms.

At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, you will find experienced, women-focused care that walks with you through every milestone.

Ready to get started? Call (706) 324-0471, email admin@obgynsoc.com, or request your appointment online.

We are here for you.

/by

Why Post-Delivery & After Birth Obstetric Care is Important

,

While the term postpartum generally refers to the first six weeks after childbirth, post-delivery and after birth obstetric care may carry on much longer than those first few weeks. This period of time is a time to celebrate and connect with your new bundle of joy, but also a time to focus on healing and to take care of yourselves post-childbirth. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, we provide the women of the Chattahoochee valley total obstetrician care conveniently in one location.

Here are three things (that may seem small, but are HUGE) to remember during those first weeks post-delivery.  

Things to Remember During the Post-Delivery Stage

Adjusting to motherhood after childbirth, whether it is your first pregnancy or you have multiple children, may be challenging. Like every pregnancy, no postpartum and afterbirth experience is alike. That’s why post-delivery care is so important to not only the mothers but the baby’s health as well. We know this may sound crazy, but every other mother and doctor will tell you to rest. Seriously, do it. The female body goes through so many emotional and physical changes during the growing and birthing of a baby that often those six weeks postpartum your body is extremely fatigued and needs rest.

Firstly, ask for help! Asking for help during those first few weeks from your partner or family can be so valuable. If you can rest and focus on feeding your baby and taking care of yourself, your recovering may be easier. Secondly, sleep when the baby sleeps. This is something many new mothers hear and disregard. Your newborn will wake to feed anywhere from every two to three hours, but mostly they will be sleeping. Take that time to rest your body and your mind.

Nutrition is also a key factor to remember during the post-delivery and afterbirth period. For nine months a woman is feeding not only herself but a growing child inside. Often many women put their nutrition on the back burner after delivery, focusing solely on the newborn’s needs. However, concentrating on your own nutrition and maintaining a balanced diet will give you more strength to deal with those long nights. Whether you choose to breastfeed your baby or not, staying hydrated is also very important to your overall health and nourishment. 

Individualized Postpartum and Obstetric Care in Columbus, Ga

We understand that the postpartum stage may be a little overwhelming, after all, your body has just created a new life (or lives). Taking care of yourself during this time is crucial and we are here to walk you through every step of the process, from your first positive pregnancy test to your last postpartum visit and everything in between. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, we pride ourselves on the individualized postpartum and after delivery care, we provide all our patients.

Contact our office today if you have any questions or concerns about your post-delivery appointment. 

/by

What You Need to Know About Preeclampsia

,

Becoming pregnant may be an exciting moment in a woman’s life but it can also bring along various health risks. Preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy that often requires premature delivery to prevent serious life-threatening complications both for the mother and for the baby. Consequently, significant health care costs are associated with preeclampsia. 

Here are several things you should know about this pregnancy complication:

Who is at Risk?

Preeclampsia affects 2-8% of all women’s pregnancy worldwide. Usually, it occurs after 20 weeks gestation (somewhere in the late 2nd or 3rd trimesters) but can occur up to six weeks postpartum (after delivery).  In rare cases, it can occur earlier than 20 weeks. Maintaining proper prenatal care is imperative for the detection of preeclampsia as well as maintaining a healthy pregnancy for mothers. You may be at higher risk for preeclampsia if:

  • You’ve had preeclampsia in pregnancies
  • Pregnant with twins or multiples
  • Suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney issues
  • Family history of the disorder
  • Are 35 or older
  • Have a BMI of 30 or higher

Preventing Preeclampsia: What works?

One strategy for preventing preeclampsia is the use of low-dose aspirin. Low dose Aspirin (81mg) started after the first trimester has been shown to reduce the risk of preeclampsia in high-risk women. Since not all women who develop preeclampsia have preexisting risk factors the question remains if low dose aspirin benefits even low-risk patients and would it be cost-effective. 

A recent study published in the August edition of  Obstetrics and Gynecology supports the use of low dose aspirin, even in women who have no risk factors for preeclampsia.  While further studies are warranted to directly compare outcomes with universal aspirin versus aspirin treatment restricted to high-risk patients it is reasonable to use low-dose aspirin in those women who would like to initiate such a preventative strategy.

OBGYN Specialist Prenatal Care

Let OBGYN Specialists of Columbus put your mind at ease during your pregnancy. Turn to our knowledgeable obstetric team and trust that Dr. Ruthann Rees will walk you through your pregnancy. Contact our office today if you’re interested in finding out more about our prenatal care services.

/by
smiling compassionate OB-Gyn & Gynecology Specialist in Seale, AL

Top 4 Questions to Ask Your Obstetrician

,

You’re pregnant, congratulations! But now what? Often the joy of a positive pregnancy test can cloud or clutter your mind with all sorts of excitement, questions, and concerns. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, we provide total healthcare during your pregnancy and beyond. Individualized care and years of experience are what set our team apart from the rest. So whether this is your first pregnancy or you have experienced this all before, we know you will have questions. 

Here are the top four questions you may want to ask your obstetrician.

4 Questions to Ask at Your First Obstetrician Appointment 

  • What pregnancy symptoms are normal and what is an emergency? During the first trimester, women may experience various levels of nausea, fatigue as well as breast soreness, or tenderness. That being said, if you experience extreme nausea to the point of not being able to keep any food or liquids down, heavy bleeding, or severe cramping you should call your doctor. If you ever feel unsure do not hesitate to give our office a call.
  • What medications can I take during my pregnancy? Whether you are currently taking prescriptions or are curious about which over-the-counter medications you can take during your pregnancy, discussing prescriptions and medications with your obstetrician is imperative. Your OB should know all the medications you are prescribed at your first appointment. While the list of over-the-counter medications is limited during pregnancy it is important to know what is safe and what you will want to stay away from for the next nine months. Contact your obstetrician with any questions regarding medications before you take it during your pregnancy. Here are a few over-the-counter medications that are commonly on the “safe list” for pregnant women:
    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for headache/pain/fever
    • Vitamin B6 for nausea/vomiting
    • Chlorpheniramine and tripelennamine for cold and allergy symptoms
    • Fiber supplement for constipation
    • Saline nasal spray for allergies
  • Do I need to change my workout routine or eating habits? To have a healthy pregnancy, we suggest staying active. As always listen to your body. If you were a runner prior to pregnancy keep running. We don’t suggest picking up marathon running if you were not highly active previously. Some adjustments to your workout routine may vary further along in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you ever question specific activities. As far as diet, there is no need to “eat for two” maintaining healthy eating habits is important to your baby’s growth and development. Raw fish and fish high in mercury are both diet items you will want to stay clear. 
  • Who will deliver my baby? Dr. Ruthann Rees OB patients are able to call her personal cell phone number for after-hours emergencies or urgent questions that cannot wait for regular office hours. Dr. Rees knows how important it is to have your own doctor attend your delivery. In the past 10 years, Dr. Rees has attended the delivery of over 99% of her Obstetric patients, so it is safe to say she will be there for you. 

Obstetric Care You Can Trust

Dr. Ruthann Rees and her team at OBGYN Specialists of Columbus are ready to walk you through this incredible journey of new life. Conveniently located in midtown Columbus, Georgia our office is here for you and your growing family. Contact us to schedule your first obstetrician appointment today. 

/by
OBGYN specialist near Phenix City

8 Things You Need to Know About Pregnancy and Pertussis

,

Are you pregnant or know someone who is? Here are eight things you need to know about Pertussis and the Tdap Vaccination. Below are the most common questions we are asked here in the office.

What is Pertussis?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection marked by a severe hacking cough that is followed by a high-pitched inspiration that sounds like a “whoop.” The incidence of whooping cough has increased over time likely due to vaccine-related immunity that wears off over time. From 2000 to 2014 there were 277 recorded pertussis-related deaths in the united states and about 87% (241 cases) occurred in infants under the age of 3 months.

How Pertussis Spreads?

Like the common cold, pertussis is spread by respiratory droplets –coughing, sneezing, breathing. The germs are expelled into the air where they can be easily inhaled by others. Pertussis is highly contagious and according to the CDC, almost everyone who is not immune will become sick if exposed to the bacterium. Whooping cough is most contagious in the early days of infection.

What Symptoms Should You Look For?

Not everyone will experience a “whooping cough” and other symptoms often include a runny nose, low-grade fever, and a mild occasional cough. Later symptoms may include extreme tiredness and coughing fits that may end in vomiting or exhaustion. Babies may also even stop breathing for short periods of time.

Symptoms in Babies Are Often Different

Babies younger than 6 months old with pertussis do not have a typical cough. They may gasp, gag, feed poorly, turn blue around the mouth, or even stop breathing. Symptoms can progress very quickly, and babies often require hospitalization.

How To Protect Your Baby?

As an adult, you may catch whooping cough due to your own childhood vaccination wearing off. You should receive a pertussis booster shot (Tdap) with every pregnancy regardless of receiving a previous Tdap vaccination. The vaccination should be administered between 27 and 36 weeks pregnant. By protecting yourself from the vaccination, you will also protect your baby. Some of the antibodies can help protect the baby during the first few months of life before they can receive their own vaccinations. If there is an outbreak of pertussis in the community, it is ok for a pregnant mother to receive the vaccination prior to 27 weeks.

Why Must I Receive the Vaccination with Each Pregnancy?

The amount of whooping cough antibodies in your body decreases over time. That is why the CDC recommends you get a Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy. Doing so allows each of your babies to get the greatest number of protective antibodies from you, thus getting the best protection possible against the disease.

How Others Can Help Protect Your Baby?

You should ensure that anyone that lives with your baby or anyone who helps take care of your baby receives the Tdap vaccination prior to the birth of your baby.

Treat Whooping Cough Early

You should call your doctor immediately should you, a family member, or your baby begins to exhibit any of the symptoms of whooping cough. Antibiotics may be prescribed to keep you from getting sicker, and to prevent you from spreading the disease to others. Antibiotics may also be given to babes and other household members to protect them from becoming sick.

Contact us if you have more questions and would like to schedule a visit.

/by