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| Common Questions Asked During Pregnancy | |
| When women become pregnant, they expect their family physicians to answer many questions about potential risks during the pregnancy and possible effects on the developing fetus. Many of these questions concern over-the-counter medications, common household exposures and daily activities. The following are the most commonly asked questions, but if you have specific concerns, please discuss them with one of our physicians. | |
| Q: | What should I take for a cough and cold? |
| A: | Antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine and triprolidine have a long history of use and are not associated with an increased risk to the mother or the fetus. If a decongestant is indicated, pseudoephedrine has the best safety record during pregnancy and is preferred over other decongestants. Preparations containing guaifenesin and/or dextromethorphan are recommended for the treatment of a cough is pregnancy women. |
| Q: | Is it safe to take aspirin? |
| A: | Analgesics are often used in pregnancy. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), ibuprofen and naproxen should be used cautiously during pregnancy. However, acetaminophen is considered the non-narcotic analgesic of choice because of its well-established safety record in all trimesters. |
| Q: | What about laxatives and antacids? |
| A: | Because fiber laxatives are not systematically absorbed, they do not increase risks during pregnancy. Antacids also pose little risk to the developing fetus, but these agents may bind iron in the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, excessive use of antacids during pregnancy could contribute to iron-deficiency anemia. It is best to limit intake of antacids by avoiding foods and beverages that may increase heartburn, discontinue smoking and eating small, frequent meals. |
| Q: | Can I continue to take my allergy injections? |
| A: | Allergen immunotherapy may be a valuable treatment option for pregnant women with allergies. Since newer antihistamines and some antiasthmatic drugs cannot yet be recommended for use in pregnant women, immunotherapy may be valuable in reducing the severity of symptoms and complications during pregnancy. Some pregnant women on maintenance doses of immunotherapy may experience an increased reaction to allergen preparations. In this instance, the dose may be reduced by approximately one-half until delivery. |
| Q: | Should I be concerned when I visit the dentist? |
| A: | The major concerns of pregnant women are exposure to anesthetic agents and x-rays. Local anesthetics used in appropriate amounts are acceptable. It is recommended that all elective dental treatment, except plaque control, be avoided during the first trimester. Normal preventive and restorative procedures can be performed at any time during the pregnancy. Dental x-rays should be obtained only when necessary and leaded aprons should always be used. |
| Q: | Is caffeine harmful? |
| A: | Heavy caffeine consumptions during pregnancy may cause caffeine withdrawal in newborns. Low to moderate caffeine consumption including coffee, tea, colas, chocolate and some over-the-counter drugs, is recommended. |
| Q: | I heard that diet drinks containing aspartame are harmful. Is that true? |
| A: | While, there have been no reported studies of adverse fetal or maternal effects from aspartame(NutraSweet), either in laboratory animals or humans consult your individual doctor. |
| Q: | If I get my hair colored or a permanent wave, will it hurt the baby? |
| A: | Studies in animals and humans have failed to identify any specific risks from using dyes, straighteners (relaxers) or permanent wave solutions. Furthermore, there have been no negative outcomes reported from the use of shampoos or hair spray. In addition, most physicians advise patients that the use of cosmetics (including facial make-up, nail polish, perfumes, soaps, lotions and antiperspirants or deodorants) pose no increased risk to the fetus. |
| Q: | Are there any damaging effects from my computer screen? |
| A: | Studies have not demonstrated a convincing association between video display terminals (computer screen) and miscarriage, low birth weight or birth defects. |
| Q: | I want to paint the baby's room. Is it safe? |
| A: | Brief exposure to water-based paints and similar compounds in a well-ventilated area should not pose a significant risk to the fetus. Oil-based paints and paint thinners contain a number of aromatic organic solvents and exposure to these products should be limited or avoided, particularly during the first trimester. |
| Q: | Should I avoid insecticides? |
| A: | In general, pregnant women probably should not apply pesticides in the home or the yard. In particular, they should avoid the use of fumigants. If possible, pesticides should be applied by someone other than the pregnant woman. |
| Q: | What about using seat belts? |
| A: | The use of seat belts is recommended to decrease maternal and fetal trauma in the event of a motor vehicle accident. The best protection is provided with the diagonal shoulder strap and a lap belt . The diagonal strap should pass over the shoulder and across the chest between the breasts. The lap strap should lie across the upper thighs. Thus, the straps should be above and below the "bump" of pregnancy -- not over it. |
| Q: | If I think I might be pregnant, when should I see the doctor for the first time? |
| A: | It is generally recommended to see the doctor at about the time of your second missed period. If, however, you have medical problems or any particular questions or concerns you should go as soon as possible. |
| Q: | Is there anything special I should do before my first visit? |
| A: |
Whenever there is a possibility that you may become pregnant, you should take a prenatal vitamin daily. These are available over-the-counter now and have been helpful in decreasing the incidence of spinal bifida by half. If you smoke or drink alcohol, you should quit. The use of acetaminophen as a pain reliever is recommended. If you take any other medications make sure you check with your physician to be assured they are acceptable during pregnancy. Finally, remember that your body is going through many changes it is normal for you to feel tired, nauseated, hungry, and more emotional. To minimize nausea you should eat frequent small portions of bland food. If you are so nauseated that you are unable to keep liquids down, you should contact your physician. |
| Q: | If I experience cramping, spotting and/or discharge, should I be concerned? |
| A: | Many women experience one or more of these symptoms in pregnancy without any adverse effect, so try not to worry excessively. If you do have these symptoms, however, you should be seen by your physician as soon as possible for evaluation. If bleeding or pain is severe, you should seek emergency care immediately. |
| Q: | We're going on vacation. Is it safe to fly? |
| A: | It is safe to fly if your pregnancy is uncomplicated. If you will be on the plane for an extended period of time, move around the cabin of the airplane every hour to encourage good blood circulation. It is advisable not to travel during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy so that if labor begins, your medical providers will be available. If you must travel at this time, you should check into care facilities and medical providers beforehand, as well as your insurance coverage. |
| Q: | Should I see the doctor is I'm having discomfort such as a pulling sensation in the pelvic area? |
| A: | Yes. The discomfort you may be experiencing could be something normal like a stretched ligament which holds your uterus in place, however it could be a symptom of a weak cervix or pre-term labor which may require treatment. |
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