Pregnancy Q & A
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How do I determine my due date?
The most accurate method to date a pregnancy is by the last menstrual period (LMP) if your periods were regular and the date of the LMP is known. For those who were irregular, conceived on oral contraceptives, or forgot their LMP, a first trimester (< 14 weeks) vaginal ultrasound will provide the most accurate date within 7 days.
Can I receive any immunizations?
According to the Committee on Infectious Disease, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and Center for Disease Control (CDC), the only vaccines routinely recommended during pregnancy either for primary or booster immunization are those for tetanus, diphtheria, and influenza. Pregnant women who have not received a diphtheria/tetanus (dT) booster during the last ten years should be given the immunization. Hepatitis A and B immunizations, if indicated, should be given to pregnant women. The rule of immunizations in pregnancy is that all live-virus vaccines are contraindicated unless susceptibility and exposure are highly probable and the disease poses a greater threat to the women or fetus than does the vaccine. When a vaccine is to be given during pregnancy, delaying administration until the second or third trimester, when possible, is a reasonable precaution.
Can I or should I see a dentist?
Pregnant or not, good dental hygiene is important. Bi-annual cleaning and check-ups are essential for dental health. Pregnancy is rarely a contraindication for needed dental treatment. Low dose dental x-rays may be done with appropriate plated shielding. Various antibiotics and analgesics may be used in pregnancy. Always check with your obstetrician before any dental procedure or before taking any medications.
Will wearing a seat belt hurt my baby if I’m in a car accident?
In 1998, ACOG developed guidelines for using seat belts in pregnancy. There has been no evidence that seat belts increase any risk of injury to the fetus. Pregnant women should wear the lap belt under the abdomen and across the upper thighs, and the shoulder belt snugly placed between the breasts.
Can I work during my pregnancy even if I’m on my feet all day?
The AAP and ACOG agree that pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies can work until the onset of labor. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1991 that federal law prohibits employers from excluding women from job categories on the basis that they are or may become pregnant. Common sense tells us that any occupation that exposes a pregnant woman to severe physical strain should be avoided, and heavy lifting (over 20 lbs.) is not advisable in the third trimester. However, working can provide excellent mental and/or physical exercise and lessen financial strain. Taking adequate rest breaks and wearing support hose can alleviate many of the common complaints. If undue fatigue, bleeding, or cramping occurs with working, let your care provider know.
What is Rh factor in pregnancy?
Rh factor is a term used to define an individual’s CDE (Rhesus) blood type. There are different major blood groups such as A, B, O, etc. There is also an Rh factor, a protein on the red blood cell, for every individual. If an individual has the protein, they are Rh-positive, (if they do not they are Rh- negative). Whether you are positive or negative has no impact on your general health; however, pregnant women who are Rh-negative can have problems. If you are pregnant, you should be tested for your blood type and Rh factor. If Rh-positive, you have no concerns with Rh factor. If you are Rh-negative, they will test for antibodies in your blood. If the fetus’s blood type is Rh-positive and comes in contact with your Rh-negative blood, you become sensitized and your body produces antibodies which can attack the fetus’s red blood cells and cause anemia in the fetus.
Can I have my hair colored?
Like many substances, there are no distinct studies on the effects of hair dye in pregnancy. Empirical data would tell us that there does not appear to be problem with coloring or highlighting your hair while pregnant. It is the same for manicures or acrylic nails being done in pregnancy. If the lack of safety data concerns you, waiting until after the first trimester to have these done would be prudent. The greatest risk of teratogenic effect or defects occurs in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy.