Common Pregnancy Questions

Common Pregnancy Questions

When to schedule my first prenatal appointment?
What is the most comfortable sleeping position?
Why do I have a dark line from my belly to my naval?
When will I feel baby kick?
When is my due date?
When will I show?
Can I have sex during pregnancy?
Is there any way I can tell if it is a girl or a boy?
How long will the morning sickness last?
How much weight will I gain?
When will I feel the baby kick?
In what month does the baby start to see or hear?
Is spotting normal?
How can I help my labor along?
What dangers should I watch out for?
What can I do about my fatigue?
How frequently should the baby be moving?
I'm 37 weeks & my baby's not moving as much now?
What should early fetal movement feel like?
Can women with diabetes breastfeed?
Should I massage my breasts before breastfeeding?
Preparing my nipples for breastfeeding needs?
How soon after sex can pregnancy be detected?
Why does pregnancy make me go urinate so often?
What is implantation spotting?
What are some early signs I might be having twins?
Are hot tubs off-limits to pregnant women?
How to maintain shape while pregnant?
Is severe morning sickness common?
Why is my belly button so sore?
Can I go backpacking at four months?
I notice that my tailbone hurts and is changing shape.
How can I get back in shape after being on bed rest?
Is it normal to feel depressed during pregnancy?
Which anesthetics will make you sleepy in labor?
How can I avoid an episiotomy or tearing?
I want to keep the cord blood for family?
Why do the hospitals give laboring women ice chips?
What are advantages of having my baby at home?
I am a diabetic. Could I have a home birth?
What are the benefits of a home birth?
Is home birth safe?
Who can have a home birth?
When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?
When should I baby proof?
When should I buy a car seat?
What should I know about postpartum depression?
Activities I should steer clear of while pregnant?
Should I take Childbirth Education Classes?
Why are my feet swollen during pregnancy?

 

To help first time mothers in their pregnancy we have compiled a set of most common pregnancy questions. It is normal to have countless pregnancy questions when you are expecting for the first time. Having a baby effects a woman in many ways and we hope you get some value from our answers written by experienced moms. 

How soon should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?

It is of the utmost importance that you make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you suspect that you are pregnant. Getting early and consistent medical care will ensure that your baby is healthy.

What is the most comfortable sleeping position?

Most pregnant women find that sleeping on their side with a pillow between their knees is most comfortable. Doctors often recommend this position to their pregnant patients.

Why do I have a dark line from my belly to my naval?

 This line is called the linea negra. It’s caused by hormones and usually runs from the pubic bone all the way up to the fundus. Don’t be concerned about this as it is completely normal and will begin to fade after your baby is here.

 

When will I feel baby kick?

Women can usually start to feel the baby kicking between sixteen and twenty-five weeks. It is known as quickening. Detecting the baby kicking is easiest when you are lying down. Every woman is different so don’t worry if you haven’t felt anything yet. Soon, you will be thinking the baby will be the next soccer star!

When is my due date?

That’s easy to figure out. You’ll need to know the date that your last period started. Count off forty weeks from that date on a calendar. Where you land is roughly the date your baby is scheduled to arrive. Your doctor will also calculate this for you at your first appointment.

When will I show?

People begin to show at various times. A woman that has already had several children will be more likely to show sooner than a first timer. Usually by the fourth month, your clothing will start to feel a bit on the snug side. You will also start to see a bulge in your tummy. Once that starts, your belly will keep growing and showing.

Can I have sex during pregnancy?

Absolutely! Many people are apprehensive when it comes down to having sex while pregnant. Sex will in no way harm your little one. Men especially have concerns about it. The truth of the matter is that it is humanly impossible for a man’s penis to poke the baby or the uterus. Sex is completely safe.

Is there any way I can tell if it is a girl or a boy?

The only way to tell the gender of your baby is through ultrasound or amniocentesis. These tests aren’t generally done just to find out whether it is a girl or a boy. Think of the wait as merely anticipating the best gift you could ever receive. Whether it’s a boy or a girl, they will be surely loved.

How long will the morning sickness last?

Some people never even experience morning sickness, while others complain they had it throughout their entire pregnancy. For most pregnant women, the nausea stops around the fourteenth week. Remember to keep some saltines or oyster crackers on your bedside table. Eating some dry crackers before getting up often helps those experiencing morning sickness.

How much weight will I gain?

Most doctors recommend gaining between twenty-five and thirty pounds during pregnancy. Naturally, this will vary if you are underweight or overweight. Your doctor will carefully monitor your weight and advise you if you are gaining weight properly.

When will I feel the baby kick? Can I interact with him?

The baby usually begins to kick noticeably between sixteen and twenty-five weeks. This varies from woman to woman. You can interact with the baby by singing, talking or playing music for him.

In what month does the baby start to see or hear? Can we interact?

The baby can hear by the fourth month and see at around twenty-five weeks. Before that, his eyelids were fused together. You can interact by playing music, singing or just talking to your baby.

Is spotting normal?

That’s a tough question. Some women claim that they had spotting throughout their pregnancy and the baby was fine. Others state that their spotting resulted in miscarriage. It is always best to call your doctor anytime there is spotting during pregnancy.

How can I help my labor along?

Walking is a great way to try to speed labor. Our friend, gravity forces the baby to press on the cervix. Sex can also help move things along. Some believe that a long and bumpy car ride works wonders. Years ago, doctors would have pregnant women take castor oil. This is still done in some rural areas of the country. It is not advisable as castor oil causes severe cramping and diarrhea which can dehydrate you and your precious little one.

What dangers should I watch out for?

Believe it or not, the biggest danger in your home is whatever can cause you to fall. An electric wire that isn’t carefully wound up can cause you to trip. Check your home for anything that is a potential cause of a dangerous fall. Pregnant women that have cats are at risk for toxoplasmosis. Never clean the litter box unless your cat has been tested for it. Toxoplasmosis can be transmitted to women through the feline’s feces. It can cause spontaneous miscarriage. Cleaning your home can cause hazards as well. Toxic chemicals can not only harm you but can also create problems for your unborn baby. If you must do the cleaning yourself, you really should consider using all natural products for the safety of your little one.

What can I do about my fatigue?

It seems like you’re always exhausted when you are pregnant. Your body is going through major changes and your hormones are all over the place. Be sure that you are eating well, drinking enough water and taking your prenatal vitamins. Don’t be alarmed that you’re tired a lot. You need plenty of rest to grow your baby.

How frequently should the baby be moving?

Babies move quite often in the womb. No two are alike. Movement will seem to increase the later you are in your pregnancy. This is because the baby has less space in the uterus. Shortly before labor begins, the baby will slow its movements. If you have not felt the baby move in 24 to 48 hours, you need to contact your doctor.

I’m 37 weeks, and my baby’s not moving as much now. Is that OK?

Your baby is preparing himself for labor and his wonderful entry into this world! Babies often slow their activity shortly before you go into labor. Make sure you have your bag packed as it probably won’t be long before you have your bundle of joy.

What should early fetal movement feel like?

Early fetal movements feel exactly like when you get butterflies in your stomach from being nervous or excited. It’s a gentle, little fluttery feeling. Later, the movements get stronger and you’ll think you are giving birth to a soccer star.

Can women with diabetes breastfeed?

Yes! Women with diabetes can breastfeed and it is healthy to do so. Breastfeeding can reduce your baby’s chances of getting diabetes. It will also help you to lose weight and bond with your precious baby. You might have to monitor your blood more often. You should talk to your doctor about this.

Should I massage my breasts to prepare for breastfeeding?

There is no need to massage your breasts in preparation for breastfeeding. Doing so causes your body to release the hormone called oxytocin. This hormone is what gets your labor moving along. Mother Nature will take care of everything for you!

Do I need to do anything to prepare my nipples for breastfeeding?

Your body prepares your nipples for breastfeeding. Unless you have inverted or flat nipples, you have nothing to do but wait for the birth of your little one. Everything will come naturally in time.

How soon after sex can pregnancy be detected?

There are at home pregnancy kits that can tell you if you are pregnant in as little as three days after missing your period. You won’t be able to find out until after you actually missed your menstrual period.

Why does pregnancy make me have to urinate so often?

Pregnant women often feel like they are spending most of their time in the bathroom! This is because your uterus is growing rapidly to accommodate your baby. The uterus puts pressure on your bladder causing you to urinate frequently.

What is implantation spotting? How much blood is there in this spotting? For how long would implantation spotting go on?

Implantation spotting occurs when your body has released a tiny piece of uterine lining before the egg gets to the uterus. It usually goes unnoticed on bathroom tissue between the sixth and twelfth day after ovulation. It only lasts a day or two and is very normal.

What are some early signs that I might be having twins?

If twins run in your family, your chances of having twins increases. Your chance is also greater if you are over the age of 35, have had twins before or have taken fertility treatments.
The only real sign is that you will gain weight and size quicker than the norm. This should be a warning signal to both you and your doctor. At around ten or twelve weeks, your doctor may hear multiple heartbeats. If he thinks that you are possibly having twins, he will immediately schedule you for an ultrasound.

Are hot tubs off-limits to pregnant women?

It is never a good idea to use a hot tub during pregnancy. Even a hot bath isn’t a good idea. The heat can elevate your temperature and raise your blood pressure. This directly affects your precious baby. Bacteria can also be introduced into your body by way of the vagina. Germs and bacteria breed in warm water best. If you want your baby to have a healthy start in life, stay out of the hot tub.

I am in the best shape of my life and want to know how to maintain that during pregnancy?

You can still exercise but you need not overdo it. Walking is always a great way to get exercise but it sounds like you must do more than that. You should write down your exercise regime and bring it to your next doctor’s appointment. He will be the best person to advise you on what you can and cannot do while pregnant.

Is severe morning sickness common?

It can be for some women. It’s amazing how some women never get morning sickness while others cannot function because it is so severe. I hope that you have been eating dry crackers before getting out of bed in the morning. If they don’t do the trick, call your doctor. There are prescription crackers that were made especially for pregnant women with morning sickness. They should help if regular crackers don’t stop the problem.

Why is my belly button so sore?

This is so common in pregnant women. What happens is that your expanding baby bump causes your belly button to stretch. This in turn can cause you discomfort. Try using either Cocoa Butter or Shea Butter. This will moisturize your belly button and make it feel better.

Can I go backpacking at four months?

That all depends upon what you mean by backpacking. If you plan to carry a heavy pack and hike up a mountain, no! If someone else will be carrying your gear and it will not be too strenuous a hike, sure. I would have to advise that you consult with your doctor about your exact plans before considering doing this. It is better to be safe than sorry especially when it comes to your baby.

I notice that my tailbone hurts and is changing shape.

The dreaded tailbone pain causes misery for many pregnant women. It is normal. Because your hips start to spread to accommodate delivering your precious baby, your tailbone is doing more work than usual. Be sure to get up and move around if you need to sit a lot. Don’t overdo it when you are walking. Lying on your side with a pillow between your knees will help relieve the pressure, too.

How can I get back in shape after being on bed rest?

If you are still pregnant and your doctor advised bed rest, you need to talk to him before starting any exercise program. Without doing so you could case your baby harm.

Is it normal to feel tired and depressed during pregnancy?

Most pregnant women are tired during pregnancy. Your hormones are going crazy and you get tired. Carrying the extra weight of the baby will also make you feel tired. Be sure that you are eating a healthy diet, drinking enough water and taking your prenatal vitamins. It is more concerning that you feel depressed. This is not a normal part of pregnancy. Most women are excited and thrilled waiting for their impending bundle of joy. You should speak to your doctor about your depression. Some mood swings are normal but constant depression needs to be addressed by your physician.

Which anesthetics will make you sleepy during labor?

There are a wide variety of drugs used by hospitals that can cause drowsiness during labor. Fentanyl, Demerol, Stadol and Nubain are the most common ones. If you want the stay awake yet have the pain gone, ask your doctor about an epidural or spinal block. You should decide what form of pain relief you will want well before the baby starts to come.

How can I avoid an episiotomy or tearing?

There can never be any assurance that you won’t tear yourself or need an episiotomy. Many people fear episiotomies but it’s something that you really won’t even feel. Some people believe that massaging and stretching the vaginal area will help avoid getting an episiotomy. Using personal lubricant jelly, you can insert your thumb inside of your vagina. Gently stretch the vagina toward your rectum. This must be done for two minutes at least twice per day. I must warn you that doing this will permanently expand the area which could prevent your mate from enjoying sex as he normally would.

I want to keep the cord blood for family use but would also like to donate some. Is there enough in there for both if they are only taking a syringe full?

This cannot be answered by anyone other than the professionals at the hospital at which you plan to deliver. It is wise to talk with your doctor and the hospital to find out if you can do both. Some hospitals do not use cord blood so educate yourself by contacting your hospital.

Why do the hospitals only allow laboring women to have ice chips?

Most hospitals only allow laboring women to have ice chips do so to be sure that nothing is in their stomachs in case of emergency surgery. If your stomach is full, it could cause problems in the event of an unscheduled Cesarean Section. It is smart to call ahead and ask if you will be allowed to bring your own ice chips. Many will let you do this. If they do, you can freeze a block of juice which is much better than plain old ice chips.

What are some advantages of having my baby at home?

There are pros and cons to everything. Having your baby at home will allow you to be more relaxed in your surroundings. You will be able to have as many of your loved ones around you to support and encourage you during labor. It can be a much calmer place for your baby to be born. Talk to your doctor about this. He will be able to advise you if a home birth will be acceptable for your situation.

I am a diabetic. Could I have a home birth?

This is usually not recommended by physicians or even midwives. Careful and constant monitoring of your blood might make it doable. It would be in both you and your baby’s best interest to have a serious talk with your personal doctor about this.

What are the benefits of a home birth?

Home birth can be a wonderful thing for the right parents. You will be able to have your precious baby delivered in a calm and relaxing environment. There will also be no problem with the number of people that you want there to witness the birth. Most hospitals only allow one person in the delivery area. You will also be able to eat your own food and sleep in your own bed after your bundle of joy has arrived.

Is home birth safe?

Home birth can be safe for many pregnant women. It is never advisable for high risk pregnancies. You should really talk with your doctor to see if home birth is something that would be safe for you and your new little one.

Who can have a home birth?

Anyone can have a home birth. There is no law that states pregnant women must use a hospital. Healthy women with no history of problems should have no problem delivering their babies at home. Certain health conditions will make it wiser to deliver your precious one in the hospital.

Should I start taking prenatal vitamins now (pre-conception), or just normal multi-vitamins and B-supplements?

Prenatal vitamins are great if you are trying to get pregnant. They can help prevent a host of problems for your baby. It is best to consult your doctor and explain that you are trying to conceive a child. He will be able to prescribe the vitamins and advise you on the best diet as well.

When should I baby proof?

Baby proofing should begin as soon as you find out that you are pregnant with that precious little one. By the time you are over seven months along, you will probably be too tired and too big to do so. Do a little each day or week so the job won’t be overwhelming.

When should I buy a car seat?

Wait until somebody throws you a baby shower until you spend the money on a car seat. If you don’t get a car seat by the time you are in your eighth month, buy one. You will not be allowed to take your bundle of joy from the hospital without a proper car seat to keep it safe.

What should I know about postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression can be a scary thing. It can be mild or severe. Mild cases merely require time and talking with someone. It’s kind of like when you were a child, opening the last holiday gift. You were happy with what you got but the anticipation and excitement is over. Severe cases may include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. If that is the case, you must immediately contact a professional to help you.

Are there other activities I should steer clear of while pregnant?

There are a host of activities to avoid while pregnant. They include horseback riding, mountain climbing, sky diving, saunas, running and a myriad of other strenuous activities. You should do more walking. That is the best activity for pregnant women.

Should I take Childbirth Education Classes?

Yes, yes a thousand times yes! Most hospitals require pregnant women to attend childbirth classes. This is a great thing as it will explain everything that you will be going through in labor. Let’s face it; we are more comfortable when you know what is going on as opposed to doing something blindly. You really should attend the classes.

Why are my feet swollen during pregnancy?

There is an increased amount of blood in your body when you are pregnant. Sometimes it doesn’t circulate efficiently and can pool into your cells. This is common so don’t panic. Elevate your feet as often as possible. Cut down on your salt levels. You can even ice your feet to take down the swelling. If it continues to be a problem, talk to your doctor.