Do you know how to properly prepare formula? What about if you need to supplement formula along with feeding breastmilk? Do you know how to navigate that? If not, I’m about to give you my recommendations and hopefully answer a lot of your questions!
Do you keep forgetting to ask your OB provider all your questions at your appointments? What about those signs and symptoms they told you to look out for in your third trimester…do you remember them? I’ve got you covered! I’m about to answer a lot of frequently asked questions during pregnancy…and I’m going to remind you about signs and symptoms of concern during the third trimester.
Working at the bedside as a labor and delivery nurse is one of the most rewarding jobs out there. Getting to be a part of such an intimate time in a parents life has been one of the greatest joys of my life. After working with expecting parents, I’ve found these are the most common questions and concerns.
Can I drink a glass of wine once a week during pregnancy?
Honestly, it’s best to avoid any alcohol when trying to conceive or during pregnancy. Even small amounts can affect the development of a baby.
Can I eat deli meats and seafood during pregnancy?
It’s good practice to wash all of your fruits and vegetables prior to eating to avoid possible infection from food borne diseases. Bacterias can live on uncooked and unpasteurised foods, as well as raw fruits and vegetables. You should avoid soft cheeses such as feta, brie and queso.
Seafood is a great source of protein and delicious! During pregnancy, you’ll want to avoid any uncooked seafood or shellfish. It’s also important to limit fish that are high in mercury.
Can I lie on my back during exercise?
As your belly grows during pregnancy, you may start to notice how uncomfortable it is to lie on your back or flat on your stomach. You can try tucking a pillow under your knees for support or lie on your side for comfort. It’s really important to avoid lying on your back as you approach your due date. It can decrease the blood circulation for you and your baby.
I have a thyroid condition and take medication every day. Is this okay during pregnancy?
Many women have chronic conditions and require daily or regular prescription meditation use. You’ll want to make sure you discuss all of this with your healthcare provider. Some medications could potentially harm your baby or cause other complications.
Is it safe to take ibuprofen (motrin)?
Once you find out you’re pregnant you’ll want to avoid these. These drugs may cause bleeding complications.
I have a cat. Can I continue to change the cat litter while pregnant?
Honestly, it’s better to have someone else responsible for this while pregnant. It has the possibility to cause defeats in the unborn baby.
Is it safe to be around other children if you work at a daycare or school?
Good hygiene and hand washing is important during pregnancy. Children can pass on diseases that can be harmful to you and the baby. Most OB providers usually recommend that pregnant women working with children receive the chickenpox vaccine if you’re not immune to the disease.
I’m not feeling excited about my pregnancy. Is something wrong with me?
It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed about your pregnancy, even if it was intentional. Many changes are happening physically and emotionally as your body adapts to pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones can contribute to sleep changes cause fatigue which can make it difficult to be excited about anything, this is the same for feelings of nausea and all of the other changes happening.
How do I treat anemia and low Vitamin D levels?
Your specific levels will determine what treatment you will need. You counts will be checked throughout pregnancy and your treatments may change. Vitamin D3 is a necessary vitamin for many body functions. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to preterm labor and postpartum depression. I’m not saying it causes this, just that it has been linked.
If you’re planning to breastfeed you’ll also want to supplement with Vitamin D. Babies receiving breastmilk exclusively need Vitamin D supplementation.
What should I do if I experience vaginal bleeding?
Anytime there is vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, you should call your OB provider immediately. They’ll want to determine the cause of the bleeding. Sometimes intercourse can cause bleeding.
What should I do if I am diagnosed with gestational hypertension?
If you get diagnosed with gestational hypertension, it means you have elevated blood pressure readings after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It could potentially lead to preeclampsia during pregnancy and chronic hypertension after pregnancy. Untreated gestational hypertension can cause a variety of issues so it’s really important to follow your OB provider’s recommendations so you keep it under control.
What is preeclampsia and how do we treat it?
Preeclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that usually presents itself because of an elevated blood pressure reading and protein in your urine. It can lead to life-threatening complications for mom and baby if left untreated. Systems might be heartburn, visual changes, shortness of breath or headaches.
If you’re currently pregnant, I’ve got a FREE Prepare for Baby Webinar I’d love you to join. You’ll get more questions answered just like these.
