Pregnancy FAQs

Q. What can I take for a headache?
A. Tylenol is generally recommended and is among the safest of all drugs in pregnancy. Extra Strength Tylenol is O.K. as well, and both are preferable to Aspirin.

Q. What can I take for a cold?
A. Sudafed is a good choice for nasal congestion. Robitussin DM is recommended for a cough, and both are generally considered safe. Using steam may help, either through a humidifier, boiling kettle, or a shower (not a hot bath).

Q. What can I take if I get constipated?
A. Constipation is common in pregnancy and happens because your stomach and other digestive organs are slowing down. Drink at least six to eight glasses of water every day. Eat foods high in fiber, such as bran cereals and fresh fruits and vegetables. Any over the counter stool bulk or softening agent is generally considered safe (such as Metamucil). Walking or other exercise may help, as well as trying to have a bowel movement at the same time every day. Do not take stool softeners or laxatives or use enemas without your doctor's approval.

Q. Should I take vitamins?
A. Prenatal vitamins may be started at any point in the first trimester. You are most likely already on folic acid supplementation, which may or may not be part of a prenatal vitamin. You do not need a prescription as any over the counter or store brand is fine.

Q. Can I exercise?
A. Exercise is acceptable in moderation. If you have conceived through the use of fertility drugs, your ovaries may be initially slightly enlarged and hence fragile. As such, you may want to tailor your activity accordingly.

Q. Can I still go swimming or in a jacuzzi?
A. Swimming is O.K., but a jacuzzi is usually not a good idea because of the possible increase in body temperature.

Q. What can I do for morning sickness?
A. Never let your stomach get empty since this often worsens the symptoms. Eat five or six smaller meals instead of three large ones. Try a light snack before going to bed (milk or cheese with fruit or juice). Keep crackers or dry toast at your bedside. Before you even raise your head in the morning, nibble some and then lie back for 15-20 minutes before you get up. Avoid greasy, spicy foods. Nausea and vomiting can persist all day but generally resolve over the next 2-3 months. A quiet darkened environment may help. Drink very hot or very cold liquids. Experiment to see if one works for you.

Q. Although my pregnancy test is positive, I feel no symptoms of pregnancy at all. Does this mean my pregnancy is not healthy?
A. Many women feel no symptoms during their pregnancy. This is completely normal and should not be troublesome at all.

Q. I am extremely tired. Is there anything that I can do to help?
A. Many women feel fatigued during the initial part of their pregnancy. Other than good nutrition and frequent naps, there is generally considered to be no treatment. In and of itself, this is not a worrisome sign.

Q. What should I do if I am cramping or spotting?
A. Unfortunately, there is no intervention that we or you can offer to prevent a miscarriage should one be inevitable. However, many women spot in the first trimester of pregnancy and most continue for a completely normal pregnancy. Cramping in the presence of spotting is of greater concern. Although no study has documented its effectiveness, many physicians recommend decreasing activity for women with spotting. Some form of "pelvic rest" may be helpful. This includes abstaining from vigorous physical activity, vaginal intercourse, tampons, etc. Unfortunately, unless your bleeding becomes life threatening, there is no intervention available.
Despite our inability to prevent a miscarriage (should one be inevitable), once a pregnancy is identified, the pregnancy may be followed and monitored with ultrasound. If you are concerned about the health of your pregnancy, please let us know immediately by calling the office at any time. We would be delighted to schedule an ultrasound for reassurance.

Q. I have lost my appetite and/or I don't feel that I'm getting enough nutrition because of my nausea. Is this dangerous?
A. The amount of calories that your pregnancy needs in this very early part is extremely minimal. You should not be at all concerned in these first few stages of pregnancy if you don't have a substantial caloric intake.

Q. What can I do for my heartburn and stomach indigestion?
A. Food moves more slowly out of your stomach than it did before you became pregnant. Stomach acid can "back up" into your esophagus (the passage way to your stomach). To try to relieve your heartburn, avoid greasy and spicy foods. Avoid large meals, especially right before going to bed. Sleep propped up, with your head elevated. If the burning becomes too bad, you may want to ask your doctor to prescribe an antacid. Do not take Alka Seltzer or baking soda.