Tours
In order to familiarize families with our facility, we welcome every expecting woman and her support persons to tour the Childbirth Center at our hospital. Tours are scheduled every Tuesday night at 8:00 p.m. There are times when rooms may not available, and therefore encourage you to call 505.609.6189 before you come or call 505.609.6484 ext. 2 to arrange a time that works for you.
Exercise
Regular exercise, with the approval of your physician or midwife, can often help to minimize the physical discomforts during pregnancy and help with the recovery after the baby is born. There is evidence that physical activity may be especially beneficial for women with gestational diabetes. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women who exercised and were physically fit before pregnancy can safely continue exercising throughout the pregnancy. Women who were inactive before pregnancy or who have medical or pregnancy complications should consult with their physician or midwife before beginning any exercise regimen.
Exercise may not be safe if a pregnant woman has any of the following conditions:
- Preterm labor in current or past pregnancies
- Vaginal bleeding
- Cervical problems
- Leaking of amniotic fluid
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness and/or fainting
- Decreased fetal activity or other complications
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
- Certain health problems, such as high blood pressure or heart disease
Types of exercise to avoid during pregnancy:
- Horseback riding
- Water skiing
- Scuba diving
- High altitude skiing
- Contact sports
- Any exercise that can cause a serious fall
- Exercising on your back after the first trimester (because of reduced blood flow to the uterus)
- Vigorous exercise in hot, humid weather, as pregnant women are less efficient at exchanging heat
- Exercise involving the Valsalva maneuver (holding one’s breath during exertion), which can cause an increased intra-abdominal pressure
Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs
If you use tobacco, it’s time to quit. Smoking cigarettes or using tobacco products of any kind during pregnancy can slow your baby’s growth and cause a premature birth. Drinking alcohol and using drugs not approved by your physician during pregnancy can harm your baby. Avoid using any drugs unless specifically approved by a physician or midwife.
Car Seats
New Mexico state law requires that infants are transported home from the hospital in a car seat. Some community resources provide discounts and instructions on car seat safety. Call 505.609.6484, ext. 2 for more information on current community resources.