Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but you may have a lot of concerns or questions, which can make it stressful too. We covered some of the most common questions about pregnancy in the first part of our FAQ, so don’t forget to check those out! Here are seven more questions you may have and their answers.

1. What should I ask my doctor about my first pregnancy?

If you are pregnant for the first time, you may not know where to start when you meet with your doctor. Here are some of the questions you may consider asking at your first appointment.

• Can I still take my medication?
• What are the risks involved in pregnancy?
• How often do I need to come in for check-ups?
• What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
• What prenatal vitamins should I take?
• Are my symptoms normal, or should I be concerned?
• What birthing options are available to me?
• How can I manage morning sickness?
• What should I know about labor and delivery?
• How can I ensure a healthy pregnancy?
• What warning signs should I look out for during pregnancy?

2. What are some common misconceptions about pregnancy?

There are a lot of myths people believe about pregnancy, many due to fear and some caused by common belief in old wives’ tales. We will cover just a few here, but they all highlight the importance of speaking with your doctor during pregnancy.

You can predict the gender of the baby

Many people think that you can tell the gender of the baby by looking at certain factors, including certain cravings or whether the belly is sitting high or low. However, these are not methods that can accurately show the gender of your baby.The only way to tell the gender of your baby is to get an ultrasound or specific blood testing. Ultrasounds will let you know the gender between 19–20 weeks while blood testing can tell you the gender of your baby as early as 10 weeks.

You should avoid hot tubs during pregnancy

Taking a dip in a hot tub or sauna can be safe as long as certain precautions are taken. It is recommended to limit the time spent in hot tubs and saunas to 10-15 minutes at a time and to make sure the water temperature does not exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because prolonged exposure to high temperatures can increase the risk of birth defects and other complications.
Additionally, pregnant women should avoid submerging their entire body in hot tubs or saunas, as this can cause their body temperature to rise too quickly.

Pregnant women should not exercise

This is a common misconception that can actually be harmful to pregnant women and their babies. Staying active during pregnancy is important for maintaining your overall health and preparing your body for labor and delivery. However, it is crucial to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine and to listen to your body’s cues. Some recommended exercises during pregnancy include walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics.

Heartburn during pregnancy means your baby will be born hairy

While it may seem like there is a connection between the two, heartburn during pregnancy does not indicate anything about your baby’s hair growth. Heartburn is caused by hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach, among other things, while hair growth is determined by genetics.

3. What lifestyle changes should I make when I’m pregnant?

The most important lifestyle changes you make should include eating a better diet, quitting any substances that are harmful to your baby (and you), and staying healthy overall. be sure to speak with your doctor to craft a personalized plan to help make your lifestyle healthier. Here are some foundational changes you should make during your pregnancy:

• Eat well-balanced and nutritious meals
• Get enough rest and sleep
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your doctor
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and regular exercise

4. Are prenatal vitamins really necessary?

Yes, prenatal vitamins are essential for a healthy pregnancy. They contain important nutrients such as folic acid, iron, and calcium that can help prevent birth defects and support the growth and development of your baby. Prenatal vitamins also provide added nutritional support for pregnant women, who may have increased nutrient needs during this time. Talk to your doctor about which prenatal vitamin is best for you and how often you should take it.

5. Can I still fly even though I’m pregnant?

In general, it is safe for pregnant women to travel until they are close to their due date. However, women with pregnancy complications are often restricted in their travel. Always speak to your OB-GYN before going on a trip, especially if you plan on flying. Also, remember that most airlines limit and even ban travel for pregnant women after 36 weeks, so be sure to check with your airline before making any travel plans. Here are some tips for flying safely while pregnant:

• Consult with your doctor before booking a flight
• Choose an aisle seat to make frequent bathroom trips easier
• Wear compression socks to prevent blood clots and swelling
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water during the flight
• Take breaks to walk around and stretch your legs

6. How bad is gestational diabetes?

This health condition can affect women who did not have diabetes before becoming pregnant and will usually occur at around 24 weeks. Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery, but with proper management and treatment, most women are able to have a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.

Management may include changes in diet and lifestyle, or medical therapy such as insulin. If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your doctor will help you create an individualized plan for managing the condition and ensuring the health of you and your baby. It is important to attend regular check-ups during your pregnancy to catch any potential health concerns, such as gestational diabetes, early on.

7. Why do pregnant women have cravings?

All people experience cravings for specific foods from time to time. It isn’t clear why we have cravings, but it is thought that because of heightened senses in pregnant women, they may have more frequent cravings. These can also be a result of hormonal changes or nutritional deficiencies. While it is important to listen to your body’s cravings, it is also crucial to maintain a balanced and healthy diet during pregnancy.

Have more questions about pregnancy?

To prepare for pregnancy and get the best care for you and your baby, contact the professionals at Women’s Healthcare and Associates. We provide comprehensive women’s healthcare services to ensure every patient is healthy and happy! Give us a call today at (806) 355-6330.