Women's Health

Recommended Health Screenings

An important part of a woman’s health care is getting regular pelvic exams and tests. This short video discusses what these services are and why women should get screened regularly.

Click to play video in Spanish

Health care for pregnant women

Getting good medical care when you are pregnant is important for the well-being of you and your baby. When you find out you are pregnant, schedule an appointment with your doctor right away. Your doctor will make sure you and your baby are healthy and give you advice on having a healthy pregnancy.

Pregnancy Care Collection

This short video series, Pregnancy Care Collection, addresses common pregnancy questions. The videos also discuss covered services for Mercy Care plan members who are pregnant and pregnancy resources in Arizona.

Play All Videos English / Spanish

What are Mercy Care’s pregnancy services for moms-to-be? English / Spanish

What is an OB/GYN? English / Spanish

What is a certified nurse midwife? English / Spanish

Getting on a pregnancy care routine with your doctor English / Spanish

Tips for a healthy pregnancy English / Spanish

What should I eat when pregnant? English / Spanish

What to expect in birthing classes? English / Spanish

How do I prepare for labor? English / Spanish

What happens after my baby arrives? English / Spanish

Resources to help you and your new baby English / Spanish

What is postpartum depression? English / Spanish

 

Symptoms & Discomforts

Bodily changes and signs of labor

During pregnancy, you will experience many changes in your body. Some are normal. But others are not.

What you can do to help ease pregnancy pains:

  • Get good health care while you are pregnant, and keep all your appointments.
  • Be alert for signs of early labor.
  • Eat right.
  • Follow your doctor’s advice about what you should eat.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Stay away from drugs and alcohol.
  • Make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.

Watch for signs of labor

Call your doctor immediately if you have ANY of these problems. Don’t wait for them to go away.

  • Discharge, blood or water leaking from the vagina
  • Low, dull backache
  • Feel like you’re going to start your period (period-like cramping)
  • Pelvic pressure (like the baby is pushing down)
  • Stomach cramps (you may or may not have diarrhea with this)
  • Contractions that last for awhile

Here are a few things to know about premature birth:

  • The earlier the baby comes, the more danger there is to the baby.
  • Premature babies can be very sick and can spend most of their first year of life in the hospital.
  • Premature babies may need special care throughout their whole lives.
  • You can help give your baby a healthy start in life. Get early care, and be sure to keep your health care appointments.