Many new and exciting things will be discovered during your early pregnancy stage, and you will have dozens, if not hundreds, of questions during the coming months. Some of the more common questions are listed below with brief answers. More information can be found through your doctor’s office and at health and wellness centers.
What tests will be performed during my pregnancy?
Blood tests for blood abnormalities and anemia will be followed by tests for Rh status. You will also be screened for Hepatitis B, Syphilis and HIV, Chlamydia, gonorrhea and other STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).
At sixteen weeks, you may be offered an AFB blood test. Although optional, this test looks at the chances of the fetus of developing Spina Bifida and other chromosomal defects that include Down Syndrome. Many doctors will recommend this for any expectant mother over the age of thirty-five, although this is not always the case.
At 28 weeks, you will be given another blood test, this time for gestational diabetes. In most cases, the final test given will be at around 36 weeks, when a vaginal culture will be taken to check for Streptococcus B, which is a bacterium that can cause infection if not treated before or during labor.
Why do I have brown patches on my face?
This is called the mask of pregnancy, and is a common occurrence caused by hormonal changes in the body. After the birth of the baby, these spots will gradually fade.
What is Preeclampsia?
This disease affects about 5 to 7% of pregnancies. The symptoms include high blood pressure, headaches, sudden weight gain, and excessive swelling. It usually happens late in the second trimester or early in the third trimester. It is important to watch for the signs of this disorder, and if you notice any, contact your doctor immediately so that you can be treated for this condition and monitor you and the fetus.
Why am I having food cravings?
I want to eat strange things, like laundry detergent and clay. What is wrong with me?
The answer is nothing. This is a symptom called “Pica” that sometimes occurs in pregnant women. Experts suspect that it is the body’s way of telling you that there is a deficiency in one or minerals needed during your pregnancy.
It is important that you do not eat anything other than food. Call your doctor to discuss these cravings. More than likely, you will be prescribed a multi-mineral supplement that will curb the cravings by giving your body what it needs in an acceptable form.
Can I fly on an airplane while pregnant?
As long as you are in good health, flying should not present a problem. Airlines today are well pressurized and relatively comfortable. However, as you near your delivery day, you should probably avoid flying. Before taking a trip, simply talk to your doctor.
What is the strong vaginal odor?
This is common and caused from hormonal changes that your body goes through, which change your body chemistry. In many cases, your body odor and vaginal odor will become stronger and muskier but will subside after the birth of your child.
When should I begin childbirth classes?
Start looking for classes early in the second trimester so that you can be sure to find one you like. Make sure you do not start the classes any later than your thirtieth week of pregnancy. Check with your doctor, hospital, midwife, or local health club to determine all your options. If you go into labor a few weeks early, you will be glad that you finished the course!
Why do my joints ache and feel odd?
Progesterone and Relaxin, two hormones produced during pregnancy, cause the joints and ligaments to relax and soften to prepare for vaginal delivery. Although you will be glad of this during labor as the baby pushes his or her way through the pelvic region, it can cause discomfort in the meantime. You may feel “wobbly” at times and have a dull ache in the joints, especially in the hips and knees. This is normal, and after childbirth, it will pass.
Can I have sexual intercourse while pregnant?
This is a personal choice to some extent. In most cases, enjoying sexual intercourse is fine and will not cause harm to the fetus. Morning sickness during the first trimester and general body discomfort during the last trimester may make you less inclined to engage in sex, but if you do feel amorous, go right ahead!
The only caveat is if your water has broken or your contractions have set in earlier than thirty-eight weeks, in which case you should talk to your doctor before doing anything sexual.
What can I do for my varicose veins?
Support hose can be helpful. Put them on before getting out of bed in the morning, so that the blood has not all rushed into your feet. The graduated pressure in support stockings will keep your circulation going and reduce the discomfort of varicose veins.
Can a yeast infection be treated while pregnant?
Studies conducted, show no link between yeast infection treatments and fetal damage, but always talk to your doctor before using any type of over the counter treatment now that you are pregnant. If you eat plenty of foods with active cultures, such as buttermilk and yogurt, you should have every chance of avoiding an infection while you are pregnant.
Can I color my hair while pregnant?
Yes. It is now considered safe to color your hair, because very little of the dye is actually absorbed through the skin. However, hormonal changes in you system may affect your hair, and the color could turn out very differently than it has in the past. The same applies to a hair perm. While a permanent may have worked wonderfully in the past, when pregnant, you may find that your hair under or over processes.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed while brushing my teeth?
Yes, the gums naturally become more sensitive and prone to bleeding during pregnancy. Usually this is nothing to be concerned about but if they become swollen or sore, see a dentist, just be sure he or she knows you are pregnant.
Is caffeine dangerous to my unborn baby?
Large amounts of caffeine should be avoided, but the most recent studies seem to show that a small amount of coffee (one or two cups a day) is fine.
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