Becoming pregnant can be an exciting and wonderful time in a woman’s life. However, it can also be a time of many questions and uncertainties. What are some of the most common questions that women have about pregnancy? And what are the answers? Read on to find out.
1. My at home pregnancy test was positive, is it 100% accurate?
The answer to this is almost always yes. However, there are a few things that can cause false pregnancy tests. A few popular reasons why it could test positive include a recent miscarrriage or a chemical pregnancy, a molar pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy, and some medications. Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately after a positive test, and get the pregnancy verified.
2. What is a chemical pregnancy?
A chemical pregnancy is when the sperm fertilizes the egg, but the egg is unable to implant into the uterus. In turn, it’s like you just have a late period.
3. I had some spotting blood the other day, is that normal?
While pregnant, the site of any bleeding is absolutely terrifying. However, spotting during pregnancy is almost always 100% normal. At the beginning of pregnancy, implantation of the fertilized egg can cause spotting, and it likely will happen around the time your period is due.
4. When will I feel my baby move?
When you’re pregnant, the time when you’ll feel the baby start to move is called “quickening”. This typically happens for most women between 18-22 weeks, but may happen earlier or later. Where the placenta is located (anterior placenta, located in the front of the uterus) could cause you to feel baby move even later than 22 weeks,
5. Should I choose an OB/GYN, doctor, or a midwife? When should I see one?
Choosing a doctor or a midwife is a choice that’s completely up to you. They do have differences though, so I’ll explain. Your first prenatal appointment will always be with an OBGYN (short for obstetrician and gynecologist), which is a doctor that specializes in women’s reproductive health care.
OB/GYN doctors have four years of medical school. They then have four years in a residency program. The last thing they have is a three year fellowship program. They then pursue certifications from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. These are the doctors that are necessary for high risk pregnancies or pregnancies with complications. This is also who you will see if a c-section is scheduled or needs to be performed.
A midwife is a trained and experienced healthcare care professional. They’re like an obstetrician. They can provide a large range of women’s healthcare. They can do similar things such as menopause care, birth control, and checkups. What they’re mostly known for is pregnancy care, births, and postpartum care.
Many women will continue seeing a midwife for their reproductive health care. Midwives are the ones who do things such as home births and birth center births. They can often do hospital births, but an OB/GYN would do a c-section if it became necessary. You should schedule your appointment with your doctor or midwife
6. What kind of foods should I avoid?
This is something to discuss with your doctor at your first appointment. However, you should not eat any of the following:
- Fish with a High Mercury level – Things like shark, mackerel, fresh tuna (small amounts of canned tuna is okay though), and swordfish. These are examples of fish to not eat while pregnant.
- Undercooked, Raw, or Processed Meat – Again, the occasional processed meat is 100% okay.
- Raw Eggs
- Raw Sprouts
- Unpasteurized Foods – This includes milk, cheese and fruit juice.
- Processed Junk Foods
Do not consume alcohol while you are pregnant. It’s a large and proven danger to the baby.
7. Is it safe for me to continue my prescribed medications?
This answer has a lot of variables, but is one of the most important questions to ask your doctor immediately. Some of your medications may be switched to different ones, or the doctor may try a different treatment plan altogether. It’s imperative to make sure you discuss this immediately with your doctor, and that you always weigh the risk vs benefit when it comes to medications.
8. What is the chance that I will have a miscarriage?
This is a common fear and question for most women as soon as they see the positive pregnancy test. The chances of miscarriage in the first twelve weeks are between 10%-15%. The miscarriage risk for women in the second trimester (weeks 13-19) are 1%-5%.
9. How much weight should I gain while pregnant?
This is broken down into the following amounts:if your
- BMI under 18.1 – 28 to 40 lbs
- BMI between 18.5 and 24.9, – 25 to 35 lbs
- BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 – 15to 25 lbs
- BMI is over or equal to 30.0 – 11 to 20 lbs
10. Is it safe to have sex while I’m pregnant?
It’s absolutely safe to have sex when you’re pregnant, unless the doctor restricts you because of complications. The baby is nice and safe in the uterus and protected by the amniotic fluid. However, make note that the positions you enjoyed pre-pregnancy may not be enjoyable/comfortable anymore. Pregnancy is always the best time to try new positions to see if they’re comfortable for you. You may be wondering if sex could cause a miscarriage. The answer to that is no.
These are some of the most asked questions by pregnant women. I hope I’ve answered any basic questions that you may have had. If you have any further questions, make sure that you ask them to your doctor. I hope these words have helped at least one person. Good luck with your pregnancies, and stay safe!
11. What are the signs of early, false, and real labor?
The signs of labor can vary from woman to woman, and even from pregnancy to pregnancy. However, there are some general signs that may indicate that labor is beginning.
Early Labor: Uterine contractions that are mild to moderate and irregular, sometimes called “false labor.” The cervix begins to open (also called effacement) and become thinner.
False Labor: Uterine contractions that are strong and regular, but do not open the cervix. This may be a sign that the baby is in an unfavorable position or has a cord around its neck.
Real Labor: Uterine contractions that are strong and regular, and gradually open and thin the cervix. Contractions usually become more frequent and intense.
12. Is having a morning sickness can be normal thing?
Morning sickness is a common symptom of early pregnancy. For most women, it goes away by the end of the first trimester. A woman can have morning sickness at any time of day, but it usually refers to nausea and vomiting that happen in the morning. Some women also have afternoon or evening sickness.
Most pregnant women feel better after taking small, frequent meals and avoiding foods that make their nausea worse. Getting plenty of rest also helps. If these measures don’t help, or if you vomit so much that you can’t keep anything down, see your doctor or midwife.
13. What should I need to do to have a vaginal birth?
Therefore, there are a few things you can do to help ensure a successful vaginal birth. First, make sure you are working with an experienced and qualified healthcare provider. Secondly, take care of yourself during pregnancy by eating healthy and staying active. Also, make sure you are well-informed about the birth process and what to expect. Lastly, be sure to relax and stay positive during labor and delivery. By following these simple steps, you will increase your chances of having a vaginal birth.
14. Can I do Smoking in start of 4 months?
Smoking can be very harmful to your baby if you are pregnant. It can cause problems with the development of the baby’s lungs and increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth. Smoking also increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It is estimated that smoking during pregnancy contributes to 20-30% of all low birth weight babies, 15-20% of all premature births, and 10-15% of all perinatal deaths.
Pregnant smokers are also at increased risk for developing placental abruption, placenta previa, and other complications. There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby.
15. Prenatal massage is appropriate for Pregnant women?
Yes, prenatal massage is appropriate for pregnant women. In fact, it can be quite beneficial. The massage therapist will likely use a special table to accommodate the pregnant woman’s belly and will use gentle pressure and strokes specifically targeting the areas that need it most.
Massage has been shown to improve circulation, reduce swelling in the extremities, relieve muscle tension and headaches, and promote relaxation. It can also help prepare the body for labor by relieving pain, tension, and stress. Some women find that they have an easier time giving birth after having received regular prenatal massages.
16. Is it true? Having a pregnancy at the age 35 can causes complications?
Yes, it is true that complications can arise from pregnancies occurring in women over the age of 35. However, there are some risks associated with pregnancy for women over 35. The most common risks for pregnant women over 35 include: high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia. All of these conditions can lead to serious health problems for both the mother and the baby.
That’s why health experts recommend that women have their last child by age 35. After that age, the risks for both mother and baby increase significantly. So if you’re thinking about becoming pregnant or if you’re already pregnant speak to your doctor as soon as possible to discuss your options and get started on the best possible prenatal care.
17. Doing exercise in third trimester is safe for my baby?
Yes, exercise in the third trimester is perfectly safe for your baby. In fact, it’s actually recommended that you continue to exercise throughout your pregnancy, as long as you’re feeling good and have clearance from your doctor.
Prenatal exercise has many benefits for both mother and baby, including improved sleep, reduced stress and anxiety, stronger muscles and bones, and a lower risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. It’s also been shown to improve the birth outcome for both mother and baby. So go ahead and keep up that prenatal workout routine, just make sure to listen to your body and stop if you feel uncomfortable or out of breath.
18. Why do many women’s have really small baby bump?
There are a few reasons why some women have small baby bumps. One possibility is that they are carrying the baby lower in the uterus, which can make the bump appear smaller. Another possibility is that they are simply carrying less weight overall, which can also affect the size of the bump.
Additionally, some women naturally have narrower hips, which can make the baby bump seem smaller. Ultimately, there is a wide range of “normal” when it comes to baby bump size, so don’t worry if yours falls on the smaller side. Furthermore, the size of your baby bump is not necessarily indicative of the health of your pregnancy. So as long as you are eating a healthy diet and getting regular prenatal care, you and your baby will be just fine.
19. Can this is safe for Husband to be with wife while labor?
Yes, it is safe for a husband to be with his wife during labor. In fact, many couples choose to have the husband present during the birth of their child. Some husbands even choose to be involved in the delivery itself. While there are some risks associated with being present during labor, these are typically low and can be managed by trained medical professionals.
If you and your husband are considering having him present during your labor, talk to your doctor or midwife about what options would be best for you both. Moreover, be sure to ask about any risks and how they can be managed. With proper planning and preparation, you can both have a wonderful and safe experience during the birth of your child.
20. Why does pregnancy causes gas and digestive issues?
There are a few reasons why pregnancy can cause gas and digestive issues. First, the hormone progesterone relaxes the smooth muscles in the GI tract, which can lead to slower digestion and more gas. Second, as the baby grows, it can push on the stomach and intestines, making it harder for gas to pass through.
Lastly, pregnancy can also lead to constipation, which can further contribute to digestive issues. Gas and digestive problems are common during pregnancy, but there are things you can do to help lessen them. Try eating smaller meals more often, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly. If you’re still having trouble, talk to your doctor about other options such as over-the-counter medications or probiotics. With a little bit of trial and error, you should be able to find something that helps to alleviate your gas and digestive issues.
21. When will baby recognize their mother voice?
It’s hard to say because every baby is different. Some babies may start recognizing their mother’s voice in the womb as early as 18 weeks, while others may not start until after they’re born.
One study found that by 24 weeks, most babies could distinguish their mother’s voice from other female voices. And by the time they were 36 weeks old, they could also reliably distinguish their mother’s voice from other male voices.
There are a number of things that may affect how well your baby recognizes your voice in the womb. For example, if you sing to your baby or talk to them regularly during pregnancy, they’re likely to be more aware of your voice once they’re born.
22. After vaginal birth will vagina size always be different?
After vaginal birth, the size of the vagina may be slightly different than it was before. However, it is typically not a significant change. The vagina is a very elastic and adaptable organ, so it generally returns to its previous state after childbirth.
It’s important to remember that every woman’s body is different and that there is no “correct” way for a vagina to look or behave. Some women are very happy with their post-birth vagina and feel confident and empowered by it. Others may feel less confident or even self-conscious about their appearance. If you’re concerned about changes in your vagina after childbirth, talk to your doctor or midwife.
23. What are the odds of having twins?
The odds of having twins depend on a few factors, including family history and the mother’s age. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, about 10 in 100 births are twins. If the mother is over 35, the odds go up to about 35 in 100. And if there’s a family history of twins, the odds can be even higher. So while the odds aren’t huge, they’re certainly not impossible. And with more and more women delaying childbearing until later in life, we may see even more twins being born in the years to come.
Furthermore, when it comes to twins, there are a few different types. The most common are fraternal twins, which occur when two separate eggs are fertilized by two different sperm. This type of twinning is more likely to run in families. The other type is identical twins, which occur when a single egg is fertilized by a single sperm and then splits into two. This type of twinning is less common and is not generally thought to be hereditary.
24. When can I should start having sex after giving birth?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends waiting at least six weeks after giving birth before having sex.
There are a few reasons for this recommendation. First, the post-birth healing process can take some time. Second, during the first few weeks post-birth, a woman’s body is still releasing hormones that help her to heal and to regain her strength. Finally, having sex too soon after giving birth can increase the risk of infection.
So if you’re wondering when you can start having sex again, the answer is “wait at least six weeks.” But remember that every woman is different, so if you have any concerns or questions about when it’s safe for you to resume sexual activity, be sure to talk to your doctor or midwife.
25. With twins can women feel more pain while delivering?
There is no definitive answer to this question since every woman experiences pain differently during childbirth. However, some women who have delivered twins report feeling more pain than those who have only delivered one baby. This could be due to the fact that twins often require a longer and more difficult delivery. Additionally, the position of the twin babies in the womb can also contribute to increased pain for the mother. Therefore, it is difficult to say definitively whether or not women feel more pain while delivering twins, but some do report increased discomfort.
26. Is it safe to take dexamethasone for twin pregnancies in the third trimester?
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid medication that is commonly used to treat various conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and arthritis. It is also occasionally used to help prevent premature labor in pregnant women.
While dexamethasone is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, it should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Some of the potential risks associated with dexamethasone use during pregnancy include birth defects, low birth weight, and preterm delivery. If you are pregnant and considering taking dexamethasone, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider first to weigh the risks and benefits.
27. How much bleeding is too much after birth?
After you give birth, it’s normal to have heavy bleeding and to pass large blood clots. This is called lochia, and usually lasts for 4-6 weeks. However, if you’re bleeding heavily or passing large clots regularly (more than every hour), then this may be a sign that you’re losing too much blood and need medical attention.
Excessive bleeding after childbirth is called postpartum hemorrhage, and it can be a very serious condition. If you are losing a lot of blood or if your blood is bright red, you should seek medical attention immediately. Postpartum hemorrhage can occur for a variety of reasons, so it’s important to talk to your doctor to find out what might be causing it in your case.
28. Did taking prenatal vitamins can affect baby brain growth?
No, taking prenatal vitamins will not affect baby brain growth harmfully. Prenatal vitamins are actually essential for pregnant women and help ensure a healthy pregnancy. Some studies have suggested that taking prenatal vitamins can actually improve brain growth in babies, but more research is needed to confirm this. In any case, it’s always best to speak with your doctor before starting or stopping any medication, including prenatal vitamins.
It’s important to remember that the benefits of prenatal vitamins are likely due to the fact that they contain essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for baby brain development. So it’s important for pregnant women to take a prenatal vitamin even if they’re getting all the nutrients they need from their diet.
29. How do I know if my water has broken?
There are a few ways to tell if your water has broken. One way is to check for leaks in your clothing. If you notice any wetness on your clothes, it’s likely that your water has broken.
Another way is to check the color of your cervical mucus. If the mucus is clear and stretchy, it’s likely that your water has broken. You can also perform a check by feeling for cervical dilation. If you feel like the opening of your cervix has opened up at all, it’s likely that your water has broken.
Finally, if you think your water has broken, it’s important to contact your doctor right away. They will be able to tell you what to do next and whether or not you need to go to the hospital.
30. How long does it take to give birth to the baby?
The average length of time for a woman to give birth is around six to eight hours, though this can vary depending on individual circumstances. The first stage of labor, during which the cervix dilates, typically lasts around six to eight hours. The second stage of labor, during which the baby is pushed out through the birth canal, typically lasts one to two hours. Cesarean deliveries usually take about an hour, but complex procedures can take longer.
Furthermore, the length of labor can be affected by factors like the baby’s position, the mother’s health, and whether or not it is the mother’s first child. Ultimately, the best way to know how long your labor will last is to speak with your doctor. They will be able to give you a more accurate estimate based on your individual situation.
31. Can you still get pregnant if you have sex during your period?
Yes, you can still get pregnant if you have sex during your period. Sperm can live inside a woman’s body for up to five days, so it’s possible to get pregnant from intercourse that took place earlier in your menstrual cycle.
It’s also possible to get pregnant from precum, even if the man doesn’t ejaculate. Precum contains sperm, and it only takes one sperm to fertilize an egg. So if you’re not using contraception and you have sex during your period, it’s important to use a backup method like condoms or abstinence.
