Category: Obstetrics

Many expectant parents consider a personalized birth experience to be an important, meaningful conclusion to their pregnancy journey. That may be why water birth is becoming an increasingly popular option for those seeking a gentler, more natural labor process. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of non-medicated pain relief or want a more calming environment, water birth can provide a very special experience that’s worth consideration.

At Capital Women’s Care, we’ve seen growing interest in water births here in Rockville and Silver Spring are proud to support families exploring this option with safety, comfort, and expert care. Below, we explore the ins and outs of water births so you can feel empowered to make the best decision for your family. Continue reading “What to Know About a Water Birth: Benefits, Safety, and How to Prepare” →

If you’ve got a baby on the way and travel plans on the calendar, you may be wondering: Is it safe to travel while pregnant?

The good news? For most moms-to-be with healthy pregnancies, traveling during pregnancy is perfectly safe—especially in the second trimester. That said, summer brings extra considerations like heat, hydration, and long hours on the road or in the air.

Here’s what you need to know about traveling during pregnancy in summer 2025, from when to go to how to stay safe along the way.

Continue reading “Is It Safe to Travel During Pregnancy? Summer 2025 Tips for Moms-to-Be” →

Proper nutrition during pregnancy is one of the most powerful ways to support both maternal health and your baby’s development. While your body becomes a home and lifeline for your growing baby, what you eat can make a lasting impact. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients lays the foundation for a healthy pregnancy, labor, and recovery. But nutritional needs shift as pregnancy progresses, and tailoring your diet to each trimester can help you feel your best while optimizing fetal growth.

First Trimester: Early pregnancy can bring nausea and food aversions, but it’s still important to focus on nutrient-dense foods when possible. Folate (or folic acid) is crucial during these early weeks to support neural tube development, so include leafy greens, fortified cereals, and legumes. Small, frequent meals rich in complex carbohydrates can help ease morning sickness. Hydration is key—especially if nausea leads to fluid loss.

Second Trimester: As energy levels often rebound, this is the time to focus on protein and calcium intake. Protein supports your baby’s growing tissues, so aim for lean meats, eggs, beans, and dairy. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for fetal bone development; include dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and leafy greens. Iron needs also increase in the second trimester to support expanded maternal blood volume—red meat, spinach, and iron-fortified cereals are great choices. Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources to enhance absorption.

Third Trimester: In the home stretch, your baby is growing rapidly, and your body is prepping for labor. Omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA) are important for brain and eye development—add fatty fish like salmon, as well as walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds to your meals. Fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help with common third-trimester constipation. Stay mindful of portion sizes, as heartburn and indigestion may increase, and continue to prioritize hydration to help with circulation and swelling.

If you have specific dietary questions or health concerns during pregnancy, the team at Capital Women’s Care is always here to help. Whether you’re discussing nutrition at your next visit or reaching out to our nursing staff, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.

As a pregnant patient, you may be aware of the importance of protecting your unborn child from various infections, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). RSV is a common virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in healthy individuals, but it can lead to severe respiratory illness in infants, especially those who are premature or have underlying health conditions. As new options for prevention become available, understanding the differences between RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies is essential in making informed decisions for you and your baby.

Continue reading “Vaccine vs. Monoclonal Antibodies: What Pregnant Patients at Capital Women’s Care Should Know” →

How old is your baby? Most new mothers hear that question a lot. For the mom of a premature infant also known as a preemie, the answer can be complicated. So how exactly do you answer this person’s question? It’s really up to you, but it is important that you are aware of preemie development: understanding actual vs corrected age. Continue reading “Preemie Development: Understanding Actual vs Corrected Age” →

Should I have prenatal genetic screening tests? This decision is a bit more consequential than deciding to find out the sex of your baby during the ultrasound. Prenatal genetic screening tests are optional and can tell parents whether their child may have certain genetic disorders or birth abnormalities. The answer is up to you. Continue reading “Should I Have Prenatal Genetic Screening Tests?” →

What an exciting day when an expectant mother has her first ultrasound! It’s true, she is really having a baby, and so far it is healthy. Those first ultrasounds are usually 2D types where you can see a black, white, and gray picture of your little one. But what about a 3D or 4D ultrasound: which is best for you?

Continue reading “3D or 4D Ultrasounds: Which Is Best for You?” →