Introduction
The beginning of pregnancy marks a critical point in a woman’s life. It also marks a new beginning that extends over 3 trimesters or 9 months. Right from fertilization till the delivery of the newborn child each and every stage has its own importance that ultimately reaches its destiny as a fully grown child at the end of the third trimester. As a mother you must have some questions in your mind about your pregnancy and what all special care you need to take care during your pregnancy period. Here in this article we will discuss 10 questions you must ask your gynecologist during your pregnancy period.
- How much weight would I gain during my pregnancy?
The weight gain depends on the body mass index you had before you were pregnant. Being overweight elevates your chances of miscarriage and also premature birth of baby along with high blood pressure and diabetes. Your expected weight gain can be 1 kilogram in the 1st trimester, 3 to 5 kilograms in the 2nd trimester and 3 to 5 kilograms in the 3rd trimester.
- How much exercise is tolerable during my pregnancy?
It is highly advisable that you consult your gynecologist prior to starting any exercise regime. Although some exercise is considered okay in order to decrease or eliminate back pain or stop unwanted gain of weight or even to minimize the chances of developing gestational diabetes, high blood pressure etc.About 30 mins of moderate impact exercise is well enough for you. If you have lived a sedentary lifestyle prior to your pregnancy and want to start exercising for the first time then you can start with 10 mins initially and then slowly increase for up to 30 mins.
- Which medicines are safe to take during my pregnancy and which should I avoid?
You should always consult your gynecologist about which medicines you are currently taking even if it is an over-the counter medicines as taking medicines without any advice can serious jeopardize your pregnancy and even cause miscarriage and/or birth defects in your new born child. Here are some medicines which according to FDA datasheet you should stay away from and ones that you should consult your gynecologist before taking them
- Can you please guide me regarding my diet options during my pregnancy?
You should consume nutritious and balanced food throughout your pregnancy so that you and your baby are well nourished. Foods such as vegetables and meat should be rinsed thoroughly after they have been brought from the grocery so as to avoid bacterial contamination. Avoid junk food or foods that are too oily in nature. Make sure you cook your food well before consumption and also ban eating refrigerated food. Also, make sure your dairy products are pasteurized before you have them.
- What adjustments should I make to my work schedule during my pregnancy?
Normally you can work as usual but some adjustments can become important which you can certainly discuss with your gynecologist. Avoid heavy labor work such as lifting, pushing etc.
- Do you advise any vitamins or supplements that I need to take during my pregnancy?
Some vitamins that you can take during pregnancy are
A] Folic acid: About 400 mg is recommended daily in order to avoid any birth defects such as spinal
B] Vitamin D: About 10 mg is recommended daily because it maintains calcium and phosphate in your body. In form of supplement do not take more than 100 micro grams or 4000 IU as it may harm your baby.
C] Vitamin C: Vitamin C is helpful in protecting your cells and keeping them healthy while also preventing bleeding gums and scurvy. It can be obtained from citrus foods, blackcurrants, broccoli, strawberries etc.
D] Calcium: Calcium is essential as it is important in normal development of bones and teeth in your baby. Vitamin D can be found in eggs, meat and oily fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel and herring).
E] Iron: Iron is essential to prevent anemia which can cause tiredness and fatigue. You can find iron in green leafy vegetables, meat, dried fruits and nuts.
- How should I travel during my pregnancy?
You can travel during your pregnancy but follow all rules and regulations such as wearing seatbelts. Flight travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered okay. Train travel is permitted before 37th week of pregnancy. Avoid long car journeys and if you cannot avoid it then make sure you halt regularly and go out to stretch and move around.
- What should you do for normal delivery?
Some tips so that you have normal delivery are
- Reduce stress.
- Sleep well.
- Drink enough water.
- Have a support system.
- Healthy diet.
- Active lifestyle with proper exercise.
- What positions to sleep in during my pregnancy?
According to specialists sleeping on left side is recommended as it enhances blood circulation to your baby thus providing important nutrients and vitamins. It also helps by not putting too much pressure on your liver.
- What are the signs of delivery or labor?
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms then it’s most likely your labor has begun
- Pain.
- Bleeding.
- Contractions.
- Your water’s breaking.
- Backache.
- Feeling pressure in your bowel which is due to your baby’s head pressing against your bowel.
Dr Dimple Doshi-An Expert Gynecologist
Dr Dimple Doshi is an expert lady gynecologist in Mumbai who has about 20+years of experience practicing as a gynecologist.