10 Frequently Asked Questions of First-Time Moms
1. Should I avoid any foods in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, you should follow the guidelines set by the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG), which recommends a balanced diet consisting of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and some meat.
Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating, and to make sure that any meat you eat is well cooked.
Most fish can be safely eaten in pregnancy, however five that have too much mercury should be avoided: shark, tilefish, king mackerel, swordfish, and albacore tuna. Light canned tuna, however, is safe to eat as often as three times a week.
Any dairy product you eat or drink should be pasteurized.
2. Any exercise restrictions?
Light exercise throughout your pregnancy is recommended, again in accordance with ACOG guidelines. Try to walk about 30 minutes each day, if possible. Ask your doctor about any specific exercise routine you want to do. In some high-risk conditions we may advise you not to exercise.
3. Should I avoid my cat?
Some pet cats who hunt birds or mice can get an infection called toxoplasmosis. This infection then be found in a cat’s feces; direct handling or accidental ingestion of the feces by you could put you and the developing fetus at risk. In rare cases, this infection can cause severe problems for the baby. For this reason, we advise that you do not change the litter box during pregnancy.
Please note, however, that you cannot be infected by touching your cat, or having the cat sleep in bed with you. Also, most indoor cats do not hunt, and so have never been exposed to toxoplasmosis; they pose no risk to you or the baby.
Please be aware that toxoplasmosis can exist in the soil (where cat feces may be), so please wear gloves and wash your hands if you work in the garden.
4. Anything else I should avoid?
Please avoid all alcohol use or any recreational drug use while pregnant. If you smoke cigarettes, we advise you to quit as quickly as possible. We recommend that you limit caffeine use during pregnancy.
You should not go in hot tubs or saunas if the temperature exceeds 100 degrees F.
5. What about over-the-counter medicines?
In general, please ask your doctor before taking any medicines, even over-the-counter ones. However, it is usually okay to take Tylenol as directed. Do not ever take aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen while you are pregnant.
6. What about hair dye or acrylic fingernails?
Avoid hair coloring in the first trimester, it is generally considered safe after 12 weeks of pregnancy. Do not use acrylic nails during the pregnancy.
7. Any travel restrictions?
If you have no complications, air travel is safe through 32 weeks. If you do fly, please drink lots of water and walk the aisles frequently during the flight to reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs. We advise frequent walking breaks for long car or train trips, too.
8. What about constipation?
Constipation is very common during pregnancy. To ease this, drink plenty of water and eat a high-fiber diet, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. You may use a fiber supplement. If none of this helps, you may take Colace on a daily basis. If none of this works, talk to your doctor!
Hemorrhoids are also common, and can be treated with Anusol or Preparation H. Again, if this does not provide relief, call your doctor.
9. What should I tell my dentist?
Maintaining dental health is very important during pregnancy. Please continue with routine cleanings, as poor oral health has been associated with preterm delivery. If you need further dental work, we consider local anesthetics safe. Dental X-rays are safe if your abdomen is shielded. Have your dentist contact your doctor if any questions arise.
10. Is it safe to get the Flu shot?
Flu shots are safe in pregnancy, and are recommended for all pregnant women. It’s important to keep your flu shots up to date because influenza infection can complicate the pregnancy.
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