Pregnancy Questions and Answers
Common Questions of First Time Mothers-to-be
What is the importance of folic acid supplementation before pregnancy?
It is recommended to take folic acid for at least two to three months before conception, as this has been proven to decrease the incidence of fetal birth defects (such as heart anomalies and spina bifida). The typical dose is 800 micrograms (0.8 mg) daily, which is found in many daily multivitamins or prenatal vitamins.
How does one’s pregnancy due date become established?
The most common way to establish a pregnancy due date is to advance forty weeks (280 days) from the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period prior to conception. This assumes, however, that ovulation and conception takes place two weeks after the start of this menstruation. An early pregnancy ultrasound, performed within the first ten to twelve weeks, can also be very helpful to either confirm or change the due date.
What is the significance of the due date?
The due date refers to “40 weeks” of a pregnancy. More than 50% of first time mothers will go into labor between one week before and one week after the due date (39-41 weeks gestation). “Full term” is defined as 37 weeks and beyond. If a woman has not delivered by 41-42 weeks, there will usually be a plan in place to induce labor.
How frequent are prenatal visits to the doctor or midwife?
Prenatal appointments, which typically begin within the first six to ten weeks of pregnancy, are scheduled every four weeks until 28 weeks. They then take place every two weeks until 36 weeks. Thereafter, appointments occur weekly until delivery.
What are some issues involving the first trimester of pregnancy?
The first trimester is generally thought of as the first thirteen weeks of pregnancy. Nausea and vomiting (known as “hyperemesis”) is quite common during this time. A fetal heartbeat may be seen on an ultrasound by six to seven weeks of pregnancy. The baby’s organs form between six and ten weeks of gestation. A set of blood tests known as the “prenatal labs” is obtained during one of the first trimester appointments. A woman’s risk to miscarry is highest during the first trimester, as well.
What are some issues involving the second trimester of pregnancy?
Thankfully, women who experience hyperemesis usually feel much better by the second trimester. Most commonly, prenatal genetic screening is available for women during this time. Twenty weeks of gestation is an important pregnancy landmark, as it is the time during which the most comprehensive ultrasound can be performed (to assess the overall anatomy of the baby). During this ultrasound, one can often discover the gender of the baby, if desired. Twenty weeks is also the time when many women can feel fetal movement for the first time.
What are some issues involving the third trimester of pregnancy?
The third trimester begins by 24-26 weeks of gestation. By this time, babies have the earliest chances for survival outside of the uterus. When resting during the third trimester, women should make efforts to lie on their left side, as this can maximize the body’s blood flow to the uterus and help the baby grow well. A screening test for diabetes occurs around 28 weeks; all pregnant women are at risk for diabetes, as the growing placenta secretes hormones, which can counteract normal insulin metabolism within the body. By 36 weeks, to prepare for delivery, the baby’s head has usually settled into the correct (down) position. A vaginal culture for “Group B Streptococcus” is typically obtained at 36 weeks. About 30% of women will test positive for this bacteria; and will require antibiotics during labor to protect the baby from infection. In addition, many women will consider prenatal classes and/or hospital tours during the third trimester.
During pregnancy, what are some common reasons to notify the physician or midwife?
Vaginal bleeding is a common indication to call the health care provider’s office. Other reasons can also include: extensive abdominal or back pain, pain with urination, severe headache, a sudden development of swelling, and fever. Reasons specific to the third trimester can include: a sensation of decreased fetal movement, a gush of fluid from the vagina, and regular or painful uterine contractions.
What is the importance of hydration during pregnancy?
A major change of pregnancy is the massive increase in a woman’s blood volume. By full term, total blood volume may approach 1.5 times of normal. With this in mind, it can be easy to become dehydrated. Women should make consistent efforts to hydrate well (with mostly water) as the pregnancy progresses.
What medications are safe to take during pregnancy?
Many medications are considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, some may be considered more or less safe during the different trimesters. It is very important to have a discussion with a physician or midwife early in pregnancy to clarify any individual medication concerns.
What is the expected weight gain for a normal pregnancy?
The average ideal weight gain for a pregnancy is between 25 and 35 pounds. However, it is important to remember that this may vary, and is not a strict rule or definition.
Is travel safe during pregnancy?
Women can often travel during most uncomplicated pregnancies. However, air travel is not advised beyond 34-35 weeks. By full term, with the possibility of labor occurring at any time, women should plan to be relatively close to the hospital.