Frequently Asked Questions - Pregnancy

I just found out I am pregnant. When should I make an appointment?

As soon as you have a positive home pregnancy test we recommend calling to schedule your initial prenatal visit. Your first visit with a provider should be between 7-9 weeks. If you have a history of prior miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, are having bleeding or want to come in earlier please call our office.

What over the counter medications are safe to take during pregnancy?

The following over-the-counter medications are safest to use during pregnancy for the corresponding common pregnancy ailments. Please note that no drug can be considered 100% safe to use during pregnancy. You may need a prescription strength medication if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.

Where will I deliver my baby?

Dr. Friedman and Dr. Nat deliver at John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek.

Click the following link for more information about John Muir Labor and Delivery, virtual Birth Center tours, Patient Registration and more.

Who will deliver my baby?

Dr. Friedman and Dr. Nat will make every effort to deliver your baby. Occasionally an on call physician in our call group will deliver your baby if Dr. Friedman or Dr. Nat are unavailable. All of our physicians share a similar philosophy of supporting your individual needs while pursing the end goal of healthy mom and healthy baby.

Can I exercise while I am pregnant?

Exercise in pregnancy is generally recommended for healthy women. In fact, pregnant women are encouraged to engage in 30 minutes of exercise a day. Pregnancy is not a time, however, to start a brand-new vigorous exercise program to "get into shape." Let your body set its own limits. Start out slowly and increase your exercise at your own pace. If you are tired, becoming short of breath or dizzy, slow down. If it hurts, do not do it. During periods of increased activity, it is also important to increase your water intake.

Aerobic dancing, walking, swimming, regular yoga, and stationery cycling are all good forms of exercise during pregnancy. High impact or step aerobics, "hot" yoga, scuba diving, skiing or snowboarding, soccer, and other competitive team sports generally should be avoided.

Can I travel while I'm pregnant?

Most women with a healthy pregnancy are safe to travel domestically before 36 weeks and internationally prior to 34 weeks. If you are at risk for preterm labor or have other high risk conditions it may be advisable to restrict travel, please talk to your provider. During travel it is important to stay hydrated and get up and move around on the airplane to help prevent blood clots.

What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?

Avoid unpasteurized soft cheeses such as Brie, feta, goat, blue, or camembert
Avoid hot dogs and deli meats unless heated to steaming hot
Avoid seafood with high levels of mercury (Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel or Tilefish). See EPA recommendations regarding guidelines for eating fish during pregnancy.
Avoid raw or undercooked meats

Should I get the flu vaccine while I am pregnant?

Yes. The CDC and ACOG recommend the flu vaccine if you will be pregnant during the flu season. It is safe to get during any trimester and is recommended due to the increased risk for severe illness related to influenza.

Should I get the TDAP vaccine while I am pregnant?

Yes. The TDAP protects you and your baby against pertussis (whooping cough) which is highly contagious and can be life-threatening for small children. The vaccine is recommended for women during EACH pregnancy between 27-34 weeks.

Should I get the COVID vaccine while I am pregnant?

Covid vaccination with either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines are recommended in pregnancy. They are safe for mother and baby and have been shown to help prevent severe illness from Covid infection. Please discuss with us if you have any concerns.

Is it safe to have dental work done during pregnancy?

It is safe to have your teeth cleaned during pregnancy. Local anesthesia to numb the area is safe if repair work is needed. Avoid nitrous oxide "laughing gas" and teeth whitening. X-rays are okay if necessary with shielding of the abdomen.

How do I file a Disability Claim?

Follow the link below to submit a claim for disability. Routine pregnancy disability begins at 36 weeks and lasts for 6-8 weeks depending on mode of delivery (vaginal or c-section). If you feel that you need to start disability before 36 weeks or you feel that you need more time after delivery please discuss with a provider.

California EDD Website

Under "Disability Insurance" select "How to File a DI Claim in SDI Online"
Review the information needed to file your claim
On the right, select either "Register Now" if you do not have an existing account or "Log In" if you have previously created a login with EDD
Enter your Email to begin the log in process
Once you have completed the above, please call 925-301-9875 or email (friedmanobgyn@comcast.net) our office with the "Receipt Number" so that we can complete the Physician portion of your claim.
Please note there is a $25 charge (regardless of filing online or on paper) for the completion of your claim that can be paid by credit card in the office or over the phone, cash or personal check.
Allow up to 7 business days for us to complete the physician portion of your claim.