As your due date approaches, it's natural to wonder what labor will feel like and when it’s time to call your OB. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we want you to feel confident and prepared when labor begins. Understanding which labor signs are normal and which signal it’s time to contact your care team can help ensure a smooth delivery process and protect both you and your baby.

Key Signs That Labor May Be Starting

Some early signs of labor are expected and not necessarily cause for immediate concern. These include:

• Lightening (when the baby drops into the pelvis)
• Increased Braxton Hicks contractions
• Losing your mucus plug
• A burst of energy or "nesting" instinct

However, there are also several signs that indicate you should call your OB.

Labor Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

1. Regular, Strong Contractions

True labor contractions are different from Braxton Hicks. They occur at regular intervals, grow stronger over time, and don’t go away with movement or rest. A good rule of thumb: call us when your contractions are five minutes apart, lasting one minute each, and have been happening for at least one hour—known as the “5-1-1” rule.

2. Water Breaking

If your water breaks—whether it’s a gush or a slow trickle—call your OB. This could be a sign that labor is beginning or that it’s time to come in for monitoring, especially if you're GBS-positive or if the fluid is greenish or foul-smelling, which could signal infection.

3. Bleeding or Heavy Discharge

A small amount of bloody show (mucus tinged with blood) can be a normal part of early labor. However, bright red bleeding or anything resembling a period should prompt an immediate call to your OB.

4. Decreased Fetal Movement

If your baby’s movements slow down or stop, call your OB right away. You should continue feeling regular movement even during labor. Performing kick counts can help track your baby’s activity levels.

5. Severe Pain or Pressure

Intense abdominal, pelvic, or back pain—especially if it’s constant rather than coming in waves—should be evaluated. Similarly, intense pressure in your rectum or urge to push (especially before your due date) can be a sign of rapid labor.

6. Signs of Preeclampsia

Call your OB immediately if you experience symptoms like:

• Severe headaches
• Blurred vision or seeing spots
• Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or feet
• Upper abdominal pain
• Sudden weight gain

These may indicate preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication that requires urgent attention.

Trust Your Instincts and Call Anytime You’re Unsure

No question is too small when it comes to your health and your baby’s well-being. If you think you might be in labor or something feels off, don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s always better to call and be reassured than to wait and risk complications.

At Cary OB/GYN, we’re here for you every step of the way. If you’re experiencing labor symptoms or have concerns, contact us at https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/.

Further Reading

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-to-tell-when-labor-begins

PolyProtein plays a vital role in every stage of life, but its importance becomes even more pronounced during pregnancy. As your body works hard to nourish both you and your growing baby, getting enough protein is essential for healthy fetal development. Let’s explore how much protein you need during pregnancy, why it matters, and how to meet your needs with nutritious choices.

Why Is Protein Important During Pregnancy?

Protein is often called the building block of life—and for good reason. It helps build and repair tissues, supports the growth of your baby’s cells and organs (especially the brain), and contributes to the development of the placenta and maternal tissues. Adequate protein intake during pregnancy is also linked to healthier birth weights and reduced risk of complications like preeclampsia.

Beyond supporting your baby’s growth, protein helps keep your energy levels stable, supports your immune system, and promotes healthy blood sugar balance.

How Much Protein Do You Really Need?

Your protein needs increase during pregnancy to support these vital processes. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend:

• First trimester: About 46 grams of protein per day (similar to pre-pregnancy needs)
• Second and third trimesters: Around 71 grams of protein per day

However, individual needs can vary depending on factors like body weight, activity level, and whether you’re carrying multiples. Some research suggests that protein needs may be even higher, especially in late pregnancy when fetal growth accelerates.

To get a more personalized recommendation, it’s always a good idea to consult with your OB/GYN or a registered dietitian.

Best Sources of Protein for Pregnancy

Focusing on a variety of protein sources helps ensure you get not only enough protein but also other key nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Here are some excellent options:

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey, lean beef, pork)
• Fish and seafood (low-mercury choices like salmon, shrimp, and cod)
• Eggs (a great source of protein and choline for brain development)
• Dairy products (Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, milk)
• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds)
• Soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame)

Tips for Meeting Your Protein Needs

• Include protein with every meal and snack. Adding foods like Greek yogurt to breakfast or hummus with veggies as a snack can help boost your intake throughout the day.
• Balance plant and animal proteins. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, combining different plant proteins ensures you get all essential amino acids.
• Stay hydrated. Protein metabolism requires adequate fluids, so remember to drink plenty of water alongside your meals.

When to Ask Your OB/GYN for Guidance

Every pregnancy is unique, and your nutritional needs may differ from standard recommendations. If you have questions about your diet, specific health conditions, or concerns about weight gain or nutrient intake, don’t hesitate to bring them up at your prenatal visits.

At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, our team is here to support your health journey from preconception through postpartum. If you’d like personalized nutrition guidance or have questions about protein during pregnancy, reach out to us today: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4847014/

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women and is one of the most common hormonal disorders of reproductive age. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we often see how PCOS impacts our patients’ health in more ways than one—including its close link to insulin resistance. Understanding this connection is key to managing symptoms and improving long-term health. Learn more and contact us at https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

What is insulin resistance, and how is it linked to PCOS?

Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar by allowing glucose to enter your cells for energy. In insulin resistance, your body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin, causing your body to produce more. Over time, this excess insulin can lead to higher androgen levels (male hormones), which disrupt ovulation and worsen PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.

It’s estimated that up to 70% of women with PCOS have some degree of insulin resistance—even those who are not overweight. This makes insulin resistance a core feature of PCOS and not just a secondary concern.

How does insulin resistance affect your health?

Insulin resistance not only contributes to the hormonal imbalances seen in PCOS, but it can also raise the risk of:

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• Type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
• Sleep apnea
• Fatty liver disease

Addressing insulin resistance early can help reduce these risks and improve fertility, hormonal balance, and overall wellbeing.

What can you do to manage insulin resistance?

The good news is that insulin resistance is manageable—and often reversible—with the right steps. Common approaches include:

• Lifestyle changes: A diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables can help balance blood sugar. Regular physical activity—especially strength training and cardio—also improves insulin sensitivity.
• Medication: Your provider may prescribe metformin to help lower insulin levels and improve menstrual regularity.
• Supplements: Some studies suggest that inositol, a vitamin-like compound, may improve insulin resistance and ovarian function.
• Regular monitoring: Routine lab work can help track blood sugar and hormone levels to guide treatment.

We’re here to help

If you have PCOS—or think you might—it’s important to work with a provider who understands the metabolic side of this condition. At Cary OB/GYN, we offer comprehensive care tailored to your needs, from diagnosis to lifestyle guidance and ongoing management.

You don’t have to manage PCOS alone. To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit us at https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/risk-factors/pcos-polycystic-ovary-syndrome.html

Why Strength Training is Essential for Women’s Bone and Heart Health

Strength training is essential for women’s bone and heart health, especially as we age. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we believe in supporting women’s wellness in every stage of life—from adolescence through menopause and beyond. While strength training is often associated with fitness or weight loss, it plays a much deeper role in long-term health, particularly in protecting bones and the cardiovascular system.

Strength Training and Bone Health

Women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis, especially after menopause when estrogen levels naturally decline. Estrogen helps protect bones, so when it drops, bones can become thinner and more fragile over time. Strength training stimulates bone growth by placing healthy stress on your skeleton. This helps increase bone density, reduce the risk of fractures, and maintain mobility later in life.

You don’t have to lift heavy weights to benefit. Simple resistance exercises using body weight, resistance bands, or light dumbbells can be enough to stimulate bone-strengthening benefits—especially when done consistently.

How Strength Training Supports the Heart

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, and prevention starts with lifestyle. While aerobic activity like walking or swimming is great for cardiovascular health, research shows that strength training also helps:

• Lower blood pressure
• Improve cholesterol levels
• Enhance circulation
• Reduce belly fat, which is linked to heart disease

Even just two or three strength training sessions a week can support heart function and lower your risk of heart disease over time.

Other Benefits of Strength Training for Women

In addition to better bone and heart health, strength training also supports:

• Weight management: Building muscle helps boost metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
• Balance and stability: This becomes more important with age and helps prevent falls and injuries.
• Mental well-being: Strength training has been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.

How to Get Started

If you're new to strength training, start slow and focus on learning proper form. A few beginner-friendly options include:

• Bodyweight squats
• Wall push-ups
• Resistance band exercises
• Light dumbbell routines

Aim to work all major muscle groups two to three times a week. And as always, talk with your provider before beginning a new exercise routine—especially if you have health concerns or chronic conditions.

At Cary OB/GYN, we’re here to support your whole-body health. If you have questions about how to protect your bones, heart, or overall wellness, we’re just a phone call away.

To schedule an appointment, contact us at:
https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

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Further Reading

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2024/women-may-realize-health-benefits-regular-exercise-more-men

When it comes to women's health, heart disease doesn’t always get the attention it deserves—but it should. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the United States, responsible for 1 in 5 female deaths. Despite its prevalence, many women are unaware of their personal risk. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we believe prevention starts with awareness and action.

Why Heart Disease Affects Women Differently

Heart disease can look different in women than in men. While chest pain is common, women may also experience symptoms like nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, back pain, or jaw pain. Hormonal changes during menopause can also increase heart risks by affecting blood vessels, cholesterol levels, and body fat distribution.

Key Risk Factors for Women Include:

• • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Menopause and low estrogen levels

What You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk

Small, consistent changes can have a big impact on your heart health. Here are three powerful tools to protect your heart:

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

• • Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
  • Choose healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, and nuts over saturated fats
  • Limit processed foods, sodium, and added sugars
  • Aim for high-fiber foods to help lower cholesterol

2. Move Your Body Regularly

• • 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (like brisk walking, biking, or swimming)
  • Add strength training exercises at least twice a week
  • Reduce sedentary time—sitting for long periods increases cardiovascular risk

3. Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) If Appropriate

• • After menopause, declining estrogen levels can increase the risk of heart disease
  • HRT may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, support vascular function, and reduce central weight gain
  • HRT isn’t right for everyone, but it can be beneficial when started early in postmenopause under medical supervision

The Importance of Routine Care

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—prevention and early detection save lives. Your OB/GYN can be a vital part of your heart health team. At Cary OB/GYN, we discuss your overall wellness at each visit, including blood pressure, weight, hormone levels, and lifestyle factors. Together, we can build a plan that supports a strong, healthy heart.

To schedule your next appointment, click here.

Further Reading:

https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/women-and-heart-disease.html

Pelvic pain in women is a common yet often complex condition that can stem from a variety of causes. Understanding what’s normal and what’s not is essential for maintaining your health and well-being. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we’re here to help you find answers and relief. If you’re dealing with pelvic discomfort, it’s important to recognize the potential causes and know when to seek care.

What Causes Pelvic Pain in Women?

Pelvic pain can range from mild and occasional to severe and persistent. Some of the most common causes include:

• Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Cramping before or during your period is a typical cause of pelvic pain, triggered by uterine contractions.
• Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often leading to chronic or cyclic pelvic pain, especially during menstruation.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A bacterial infection that affects the reproductive organs, PID can result from untreated sexually transmitted infections and cause pain, fever, and abnormal discharge.
• Ovarian Cysts: These fluid-filled sacs can develop on the ovaries and may cause pain if they grow large, twist, or rupture.
• Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus, fibroids can cause pressure, heavy bleeding, and aching pelvic pain.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): A UTI can cause lower abdominal or pelvic pain, burning during urination, and frequent urination.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Although primarily a gastrointestinal condition, IBS often causes bloating, gas, and cramping that can mimic pelvic pain.
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Weak or tight pelvic floor muscles can lead to pressure, pain, or discomfort, particularly during physical activity or intercourse.

When Should You See a Doctor for Pelvic Pain?

You don’t have to live with ongoing discomfort. Here’s when you should schedule a visit:

• Sudden, sharp, or severe pain: Especially if it comes on quickly or interferes with daily life.
• Pain that lasts more than a few weeks: Chronic pelvic pain (lasting six months or more) warrants evaluation.
• Pain during intercourse, bowel movements, or urination: These symptoms may point to an underlying condition.
• Pain with abnormal bleeding or discharge: This could indicate infection or reproductive system concerns.
• Pelvic pain during pregnancy: Always reach out to your provider if you experience pain while pregnant.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, trust the caring professionals at Cary OB/GYN to help determine the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan. Whether the discomfort is mild or disruptive, early evaluation can improve your quality of life and protect your long-term health.

We welcome you to contact us at https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/ to schedule a consultation in either our Cary or Morrisville office.

Further Reading

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/chronic-pelvic-pain