Common Concerns During Pregnancy

Pregnancy involves a lot of changes not only physically but also emotionally. The physical changes and hormonal influences that happens in your body during pregnancy can be quite unpredictable.

Other concerns may affect the lifestyle of the pregnant woman including the drinking and eating habits. Those concerns may affect the pregnancy and worse may cause fetal malformations.

Here are common concerns that pregnant women typically experienced:

When is the right time to tell other people that I am pregnant?

The first 12 weeks of pregnancy is considered to be a critical period. That’s why it makes sense not to divulge to others about your pregnancy until such time that this critical period is over. Obviously, it is difficult to hide your pregnancy as it becomes apparent in your physical appearance. That’s why, the best thing to do is to have an ultrasound before the 12^th week of pregnancy so that you’ll know if the fetus has heartbeat. Thus, you can say that your pregnancy is safe.

What foods to avoid during pregnancy?

Eating well-balanced meals is essential for a pregnant woman. You should eat at least three meals a day and the foods should be well-cooked and clean. Consuming foods containing raw fish such as sushi and sashimi is not recommended. Likewise, you should also avoid undercooked pork, chicken, or beef, undercooked eggs, unpasteurized cheese or milk, as well as fruits and vegetables that are improperly washed.

Beverages and foods that contain aspartame or Nutrasweet must be taken in moderation at least 2 servings a day, provided that the pregnant woman isn’t suffering from phenylketonuria.

Some pregnant women have been experiencing pica, a condition that manifests unusual urges to eat talcum powder, clay, chalk, or crayons. If you’re one of those expectant mothers experiencing such condition, the best thing to do is to discuss the matter to your doctor.

Gestational diabetes commonly occurs during pregnancy that’s why it is recommended to employ the American Diabetes Association diet. You should also avoid juices and high-carbohydrate snacks such as cakes, candy bars, sodas, and cookies.

Pregnant women living in Europe should be aware that most cheeses in the country are unpasteurized that can be detrimental to the developing fetus. You need to be careful to avoid food poisoning.

Is coffee safe during pregnancy?

There’s no solid proof defining caffeine intake can cause birth defects or miscarriage. Thus, some doctors suggest limited consumption while others advise no caffeine intake.

Caffeine is known to be a stimulant that can increase the heart rate and blood pressure that’s why pregnant woman should be extra careful in drinking coffee. If you drink coffee, make sure to drink adequate water otherwise it can lead to dehydration.

Aside from affecting your sleep patterns, caffeine can penetrate into the placenta and can affect your baby. Thus, the recommended amount should be one small cup of coffee.

Is alcohol consumption safe during pregnancy?

Alcohol consumption is prohibited particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy. It’s because alcohol can cause fetal alcohol syndrome that is a detrimental condition. There’s no definite recommendation on how much alcohol intake is safe.

But, doctors suggest taking a little wine and having warm shower during early labor pains to alleviate discomfort. In Europe, pregnant women drink alcohol in moderate amount during pregnancy. Nevertheless, always keep in mind that safety of the developing baby before you try drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

Do I need to take progesterone supplements?

Sufficient production of progesterone is very important from the conception until the 10^th week. The progesterone prepares the uterus’ lining or the endometrium for the implantation of the embryo. The recommended level of progesterone should not be lower than 7 ng/ml otherwise it may cause miscarriage.

For pregnant woman who has history of miscarriage associated to low level of progesterone, it is recommended to take extra progesterone through intramuscular injection, vaginal suppository, or pill. Consult first your doctor before taking supplements. Supplementing with progesterone can save a failing pregnancy.

However, there are instances in which miscarriages happen due to abnormal chromosomes or if the embryo has died. In this case, the production of progesterone also fails. Thus, the decrease of the progesterone level is the result of embryo’s death, but not the cause.

Is handling cat safe?

If you have a pet cat that is always outside, you should tell your doctor so that you may undergo for toxoplasmosis test. If you are pregnant, avoid changing the litter box of your pet and make sure to wash your hands after handling your cat.

Toxoplasmosis is an infection acquired from infected feces of cat. Once the infection is transmitted to the unborn baby it can cause devastating complications such as miscarriage.

Are saunas and bath tubs safe during pregnancy?

During the first trimester of pregnancy, using saunas and hot tubs is not recommended. It’s because the excessive heat can cause neural tube defects to your baby. Instead, you can take warm tub baths and shower to soothe the body pain.

What should I do if I am in a violent relationship?

According to study, 17% of pregnant women experience domestic violence. Being in a violent relationship causes detrimental health effects to the pregnant woman and it increases the risk of intrauterine infection and preterm labor.

Domestic violence increases the pregnancy complications and most likely many abused women don’t show up for prenatal appointments. If you are pregnant and experiencing domestic violence, the best thing to do is to report your concerns and ask for support services.

Final Thought

Pregnancy can be both exciting and stressful. If you are planning to get pregnant, read on this post so that you’ll be guided about the common concerns that you may encounter throughout the pregnancy. If you have any concern, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor. You can also do research and read books.