So, you’ve taken an at-home test, followed up with a doctor’s visit, and confirmed that yes, you are pregnant! Whether you have been actively trying or this pregnancy comes as a surprise, there are sure to be thousands of questions running through your head. Until you have the chance to get more in-depth answers directly from your OB/GYN, here is a brief overview of common pregnancy FAQs for new moms-to-be.

1. What Prenatal Vitamins Should I Take?

Normally, most of your nutrients are obtainable from the foods you eat. But when you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, there are a few vital supplements that you should add to your daily routine.

Most importantly, you need to be taking folic acid, a B vitamin found in dark green vegetables, legumes, and enriched grains. It is considered the most essential addition to your vitamin regime. When your baby is developing during the earliest stages of pregnancy, folic acid helps form the neural tube, which helps prevent some of the significant congenital disabilities of your baby’s brain and spine. Folic acid also plays a massive role in cell growth and development, as well as tissue formation. All of these are essential to ensuring the birth of a happy, healthy baby.

400 mcg is a typical dosage of folic acid but always talk to your doctor about your specific needs and any other prenatal vitamin recommendations. 

2. How Long Does Morning Sickness Last?

The term morning sickness can be misleading because you may not only experience it in the morning. Some women are more likely to vomit or be nauseous in the late afternoon or evening, and some might feel ill all day. Fortunately, this stage is only temporary, typically ending as you enter your second trimester. If you keep having these symptoms after your first trimester, consult your doctor.

3. Will I Have Strange Food Cravings? If So, When? 

Watermelon dipped in pickle juice. Buffalo wings dipped in vanilla ice cream. Eating lemons straight. These are just a few of the unusual cravings some women have reported having and enjoying during their pregnancy. 

But why do some pregnant women have strange food cravings or suddenly start enjoying foods they previously have hated? There is no universally accepted scientific answer, but there are two predominant theories. Most doctors and experts agree that significant hormonal changes are to blame or that these cravings could be your body signaling you to consume specific nutrients that might be missing.

Research suggests that 50-90% of pregnant women will experience this phenomenon. Most start to notice cravings in their first trimester, which get stronger in their second trimester and usually subside by the third.

Some odd cravings may require the attention of your doctor. For example, you should consult your OBGYN if you’re constantly craving ice. This is not in itself harmful to your body, but the underlying reason could be. Typically, this is a sign of anemia, and your doctor will suggest extra vitamins and foods rich in iron.

You should also consult your doctor if you find yourself craving non-food items during pregnancy, as this could indicate an eating disorder known as pica. If you feel the urge to eat substances like clay, paper, or glue, this is not healthy and can end up causing more health problems, such as weight loss, infections, and stomach irritations. In those cases, contact your doctor right away to figure out what nutrients your body is lacking.

4. What Foods and Drinks Should I Avoid?

We all have our favorite foods and drinks, from pizza or sushi to Taco Tuesday margaritas. Unfortunately, while you are pregnant, you might have to put some of your go-to favorites on hold. 

Here are the most common foods and drinks to avoid:

• Alcohol and Caffeine. Although some studies say it’s okay to have the occasional glass of red wine, it’s generally not worth the risk. To be safe, it’s better to avoid alcohol altogether. And if you insist on your morning coffee, limit your intake to one serving.
• Raw or Undercooked Fish. Unfortunately, this means no more ceviche, oysters, or sushi with raw fish. Also avoid any fish that is known to be high in mercury.
• Soft Cheeses. Soft cheese is often made with unpasteurized milk, which isn’t considered safe for expectant mothers. Check labels thoroughly or stick with hard cheeses.
• Deli Meats and Hot Dogs. No matter how much you might be craving a reuben sandwich with pastrami, deli meats and heavily processed sausages are often preserved with nitrates and nitrites, chemicals that are not good for a developing fetus. 
• Raw or Undercooked Eggs. Consuming raw or undercooked eggs can be a health risk at any time, but particularly during pregnancy. Bear in mind that they can be found in many unexpected foods, such as caesar dressing, uncooked cookie dough, and tiramisu.

For a more extensive list, click here.

5. How Much Weight Should I Gain?

You’ve heard the expression “eating for two,” but what does it really mean? How much is too much?

Your target pregnancy weight gain will depend upon your specific body type and circumstances, but the average is between 22-26 pounds. Some of this weight is because your baby is growing healthy and strong, and some of it is your body storing extra fat, getting ready to produce breast milk.

Putting on too much or not enough pregnancy weight can lead to different sets of health problems, so talk to your doctor for personalized guidance to help you make the best food choices for your situation.

6. Can I Exercise While Pregnant?

The short answer is yes. Exercising during pregnancy is a good way to keep your body moving and limber. If you are already accustomed to regular exercise before becoming pregnant, you can likely continue with your regime, making adjustments as your pregnancy progresses. If exercise is not a regular activity for you, take it slow. Before undertaking any significant physical activity, always check with your doctor first.

7. Can I Have Sex While Pregnant?

While your sex drive may change, it is perfectly safe to have sex during your entire pregnancy unless your doctor has told you otherwise. A penis cannot penetrate past your vagina into the womb, so having sex will not hurt your baby. 

8. Can I Travel While Pregnant?

Most airlines allow women to travel until about 36 weeks of pregnancy, but it’s best to consult your OBGYN for guidance before flying.

Note: traveling during Covid-19 may require extra precautions. As always, talk to your doctor to determine whether air travel is safe for you.

9. When Will I Feel My Baby Move?

Feeling your baby move is often referred to as ‘quickening,’ and on average, begins around 18-20 weeks.

10. What Classes Should I Be Taking?

With your positive pregnancy test, you may find yourself wanting to read every book available, join every parenting group, and take every class offered in your area in order to feel prepared. But overextending yourself can be excessive, contributing to exhaustion and stress. Begin by prioritizing basic core skills for parenting and childbirth.

Some practical classes for moms and parents to consider:

• Breastfeeding Class
• Birthing Class
• Baby Safe Class

11. What Is a Birth Plan?

A birth plan lists your preferences of what you want during your labor and delivery — for example, who you want in the room with you, whether you want a natural birth or an epidural, and the music you want to listen to (if any). Having a birth plan in place can remove some stress by streamlining your labor experience. This is something you can come up with and go over with your doctor.

How OB2me Can Help

At 2Me Healthcare, we offer private in-home or in-office concierge obstetrician care to provide you with comfortable prenatal or postpartum care for both you and your family. We are also available to you throughout your labor and delivery at the hospital.

We offer multiple packages and services to best fit your needs and make this nine-month journey as stress-free as possible. Contact us today at 2MeHealthcare.com or at (833) 692-6342 to see how working with a dedicated and passionate hospital provider can make your pregnancy and birth that much better.

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