Pregnancy can be one of the most exhilarating and terrifying times in a woman’s life. However, being concerned about everything you come into contact with can make for a long and stressful three trimesters. There are various misconceptions about what women can and cannot do while pregnant. However, the answers may not always come from the most trustworthy sources so you may be unnecessarily concerned. Knowing what is truly harmful to your baby and what isn’t is critical to maintaining your sanity during these 40 weeks. Just in case you are experiencing any pregnancy-related issues, contact Parvathi Hospital right away. They provide expert maternity and obstetrics care and are equipped with the best gynecologists in Hyderabad.

These are the FAQs About Pregnancy and Becoming a mom

During your pregnancy, you’ll need to be especially cautious of a few things, some of which are more dangerous than others. Your gynecologist doctor will discuss with you what should be completely avoided, significantly reduced, and carefully considered during pregnancy. Keep reading to know the most common FAQs about pregnancy.

Are there any dietary restrictions during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the diet should be focused on eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods that nourish both the mother and the developing baby. Fresh fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates from bread and grains, and protein from fish, meat, or nonmeat sources like beans and legumes should all be included. Women should also take some prenatal vitamins before and during pregnancy to ensure they get all of the nutrients their baby needs, including folic acid.

Pregnant women should avoid alcohol, caffeine, raw meat, raw eggs, deli meat, and Unpasteurized dairy products to reduce the risk of sickness, pregnancy complications, and birth defects.

When do pregnancy cravings start?

There is no set time when pregnancy food cravings begin. Every woman is different. If you experience cravings, it will most likely be during your first trimester and continue until the end of the second trimester.

Cravings come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some women have a craving for fatty foods such as chips. Others experience pregnancy cravings for foods they didn’t like before becoming pregnant, such as mars bars with bacon. Try to eat as healthily as possible and limit your exposure to unhealthy temptations.

If you find yourself craving non-food items such as toothpaste, coal, or even soil, consult your doctor or midwife because this could be a sign of a vitamin deficiency.

How do I prepare for breastfeeding?

It’s a good idea to learn everything you can about the importance of breastfeeding before giving birth. This will make you feel more assured and prepared. Our feeding your baby section contains a wealth of helpful information and practical advice. Learn about breastfeeding positions, how to express your breast milk, and how to deal with common breastfeeding issues. If you have any questions about breastfeeding, you can always ask the expert gynecologists at Parvathi Hospital.

Why do I always feel tired?

Fatigue is common, especially in the first and early second trimesters. The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, which result in massively increased cardiac output, are most likely to blame. As a result, your heart may be pumping an extra liter of blood per minute after ten to twelve weeks. This, combined with the enormous energy requirements of enlarging the uterine muscle, leaves you exhausted!

Which OTC medications are safe to take during pregnancy?

Some OTC (over the counter) medications are safe to use during pregnancy, but a few common medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, should be wholly avoided.

During the first 12 weeks (the first trimester), a critical period of fetal organ development, all medications should be used sparingly. Tylenol, Sudafed (avoided during the first trimester), Robitussin DM, Imodium, Benadryl, and other OTC medications are safe to use during pregnancy. This is not an exhaustive list. When in doubt, a woman should consult her OB-GYN about taking OTC medications and supplements during pregnancy.

Can I exercise while I’m pregnant?

Exercise is safe and may even be beneficial during pregnancy. It can help with constipation and back pain while lowering the risk of gestational diabetes. A woman can generally continue her usual fitness routine while pregnant, though some modifications may be recommended. Low-impact and non-strenuous activities are generally recommended. Activities that involve repeated jumping or bouncing should be avoided. Pregnant women should also take extra precautions to prevent dehydration and overheating while exercising.

Pregnant women should consult with their OB-GYN to ensure that their exercise regimen is safe.

How should I sleep during pregnancy?

It’s safe to continue sleeping on your back during the first trimester, but as your bump grows larger and heavier, you’ll need to sleep on your side, so get into the habit as soon as possible. Sleeping on either side is the safest position for your baby by the third trimester (after 28 weeks of pregnancy), as it reduces the risk of stillbirth. Don’t worry; your risk of stillbirth is low (1 in 200 babies are stillborn) and sleeping on your side will reduce your risk even further.

The most important thing to remember is to sleep on your side because this ensures that you are sleeping safely for your baby. Don’t be alarmed if you wake up on your back; simply turn onto your side and go back to sleep.

Is lovemaking safe during pregnancy?

Unless your midwife or doctor advises you otherwise, having sex during pregnancy is perfectly safe. Sex will not harm your child. Sex is genuinely contraindicated only in the presence of a threatened miscarriage, placenta previa and premature rupture of the membranes, threatened preterm labor, or preeclampsia.

How can I plan for labor and delivery?

Creating a birth plan is an integral part of most women’s pregnancies. A birth plan specifies how the baby will be delivered (vaginally or by cesarean section), how to manage labor pain, the preferred birthing position, who will be present in the delivery room, and other essential details. Expectant mothers should consult with their OB-GYN about their birthing plan preferences.

When should I worry if I’ve been trying to get pregnant but can’t?

Infertility is defined as the condition that occurs when a couple has unprotected sex for a year without conceiving. Many people consider this to be an extremely long time. But keep in mind that each ejaculate contains at least twenty million sperm per cubic centimeter on its way to only one egg. Because most sperm are lost in the abdomen or genital tract, trapped in cervical mucus, or destroyed by vaginal fluids, this ratio exists.

On the other hand, if your periods are irregular (varying by more than forty-eight hours each month) or you don’t have any periods at all, you may not be ovulating. Therefore, you should see an infertility doctor either when planning to conceive or after six months of trying.

For more information read: Infertility – Everything You Need to Know About Infertility (parvathihospital.com)

The Final Word

Although certain activities are risky during pregnancy, try not to spend too much time wondering and worrying. Instead, when in doubt, use common sense — if it seems like a bad idea, doesn’t need to be done right now, or maybe dangerous, put it off at least until you’ve discussed it with your doctor. Contact Parvathi Hospital for any queries and consultation regarding pregnancy. They are the best gynecology hospital in Hyderabad.