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In a recent episode of the Healthful Woman podcast, “Mailbag #7: What Does the Fox Say?”, Dr. Nathan Fox, a leading OBGYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist, addresses listener questions on pregnancy-related concerns. This Q&A session delves into placenta previa, vasovagal fainting, subchorionic hematoma, fertility fears, and managing a history of preeclampsia.

Placenta Previa

During the episode, Dr. Fox explains why placenta previa is more common in IVF pregnancies. He highlights research suggesting the IVF process and associated factors like maternal age may contribute to its occurrence. Dr. Fox also stresses the likelihood of placenta previa resolving naturally as the pregnancy progresses and the importance of monitoring its position with routine ultrasounds.

Vasovagal Fainting

Dr. Fox also addresses a listener’s concern about vasovagal fainting. Vasovagal fainting is a condition where medical triggers cause dizziness or fainting. Dr. Fox shares his personal experience as a “fainter” during his medical training and reassures listeners that fainting during pregnancy is typically harmless for the baby. Dr. Fox explains fainting by stating, “The concept is when someone faints, the reason people faint physiologically is that there’s decreased blood flow to the brain, and then the brain sort of gets a little hazy.” He offers advice for those experiencing dizziness or fainting spells, including lying down with feet elevated at the onset of symptoms to alter blood flow, and he also encourages gradual exposure to medical environments to build tolerance over time.

Subchorionic Hematomas

For those dealing with subchorionic hematomas, Dr. Fox educates listeners on the complexities of this condition. While small, asymptomatic hematomas in early pregnancy are generally harmless, larger or persistent ones can pose challenges, including preterm birth. Dr. Fox emphasizes the need for individualized medical care and personalized testing based on size, symptoms, and timing of the hematoma.

Fertility Concerns

During the podcast, Dr. Fox also discusses fertility concerns, including delayed ovulation and fears of scarring from past pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Dr. Fox reassures patients that ovulating slightly later in a cycle is not necessarily problematic. He also discusses the importance of tests like the HSG (hysterosalpingogram) to evaluate tubal function for those worried about prior infections.

Pregnancy After Preeclampsia

Dr. Fox also addresses managing pregnancies after a history of preeclampsia. He confirms that prior preeclampsia does increase the risk in future pregnancies but reassures listeners that interventions, such as low-dose aspirin, can help lessen recurrence. He explains that monitoring, including frequent ultrasounds and blood pressure checks, helps ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Learn More

Listen to the full episode of the Healthful Woman podcast today to learn more about women’s health, pregnancy, and wellness. You can also contact Maternal Fetal Medicine Associates in New York by filling out the online contact form to schedule a pregnancy care appointment or ultrasound.

Maternal Fetal Medicine blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!