The following are some common questions asked during pregnancy. These answers have been decided upon collectively by our physicians, although answers may vary slightly, depending on the physician and the situation.
Is it normal to have bloody spotting?
No, but it is occasionally seen (i.e., following sexual intercourse, strenuous exercise, or a Pap smear). This does not necessarily mean you will have a miscarriage.
Is it normal to have a nosebleed during pregnancy?
Nosebleeds are normal and are usually caused by the increase in blood volume and the thinning of the vessels in the lining of the sinuses during pregnancy. If nosebleeds increase in frequency, please contact your physician.
Are backaches sometimes related to pregnancy?
Yes, a great deal of stress is placed on the lower back because the abdominal muscles are relaxing, the center of gravity is changing, and the round ligaments, which are attached to the uterus, are stretching as the uterus enlarges.
What is the sharp, pulling pain I occasionally feel in my side?
It is round-ligament pain, which is caused by the stretching of these ligaments due to weight gain and uterine growth.
May I travel long distances?
Yes, but only until you reach 34 weeks of pregnancy. After 34 weeks, you should go no further than one hour away from the hospital without your doctor’s permission. You should stop every one to two hours and walk for about 10 minutes to increase circulation and prevent leg and feet swelling.
May I ride in a boat?
Riding in a boat is acceptable, as long as the ride is smooth and does not cause a jarring motion.
May I water ski?
No, because of the possibility of abdominal injury.
May I participate on the rides at the amusement parks?
Yes, as long as the signs do not mention restrictions. Do not go on the rides that swing or jerk.
May I go swimming?
Yes, provided you have not experienced a rupture of your membranes (water breaking).
May I go to the dentist while I’m pregnant?
Yes, we encourage you to do so. Your dentist should use only local anesthesia and must cover the abdominal area during all X-rays. No nitrous oxide may be used.
May I go horseback riding?
No, because of the jarring motion and the possibility of being thrown from the horse.
May I get a hair permanent?
Yes, after the first trimester (13 weeks). Remember, because of the changes in your body related to pregnancy, the permanent may not take.
May I have my hair dyed?
Yes, after the first trimester (13 weeks).
What may I take for gas or indigestion?
Over-the-counter antacids – NO ROLAIDS.
May I use vapor rub or nose spray?
The use of vapor rub externally and saline nose spray is permissible. If dryness and nosebleeds are a problem, you may want to consider a cool-mist humidifier for your bedroom.
May I use a salt substitute?
No, because it contains potassium salts that could cause problems.
Are diet drinks okay?
Yes, after the first trimester (13 weeks), but try not to drink more than one a day. If given a choice, use products with Aspartame or Sucralose.
May I drink coffee, tea, or drinks with caffeine?
In moderation. (No more than the equivalent of two cups of coffee per 24-hour period.) Water is most important.
May I paint, use bug spray, or clean my oven?
Yes, in a well-vented room. Do not allow them to touch your skin. If you start feeling faint, nauseated, or get a headache, leave the area immediately.
May I travel by plane?
Yes, with authorization of your attending physician. Some airlines require a written letter from the physician authorizing travel by air. Remember, if you go out of town, take a copy of your prenatal records with you.
Must I stop smoking during pregnancy?
Yes, It is harmful to both you and your baby.
When will I feel the baby move for the first time?
You may feel the baby move around 18 to 22 weeks. If this is not your first pregnancy, you may feel movement earlier.
If I do not drink milk, how should I get the recommended amount of calcium?
It is especially important that you have four servings per day from dairy foods such as cheese, yogurt, and cottage cheese. If you feel you are not getting the proper amount of calcium, please talk to your doctor about a calcium supplement.
May I douche during pregnancy?
No, because of the possibility of infection.
May I have intercourse throughout my pregnancy?
Yes. There are no restrictions as long as there are no complications (i.e., vaginal bleeding or premature labor). If in doubt, consult your physician. Intercourse is not allowed once your water has broken.
May I exercise during my pregnancy?
Yes, but only in moderation as directed by your physician. Low impact or prenatal aerobic exercise classes, as well as walking and swimming, are recommended. Remember, do not lie flat on your back during any exercise.
May I use acne medication during pregnancy?
Yes, consult your physician for the permissible medications.
May I sit in a Jacuzzi or hot tub?
No, because your body temperature could become too high. This could be harmful to both you and your baby.
May I use a tanning bed?
No, because the ultraviolet rays increases your body temperature.
May I use an electric blanket or heating pad?
It is permissible, as long as it does not raise your body temperature.
Is alcohol safe?
Since no safe level of alcohol consumption has been documented at any point, our general recommendation is to avoid all alcohol intake throughout the entire pregnancy. If you have any further questions, please consult your physician.
