Are there foods that I should avoid during pregnancy?
It’s recommended that you avoid foods like raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs during pregnancy. Raw sprouts, including beans and alfalfa, can easily grow and harbor bacteria, so these should also be avoided. Avoid raw milk cheeses such as feta, queso fresco, and blue cheeses. To be safe, cook all meats and fish thoroughly until well done.
The information provided is only a guide. Please consult with your doctor.
Learn more about what foods you should limit during pregnancy
Can I still drink coffee or caffeine during pregnancy?
Generally, it’s safe to intake about 200 milligrams of caffeine a day. This is equivalent to one cup or 12 ounces of coffee daily. Be wary of other items that include caffeine such as chocolate, teas, soft drinks, and some energy drinks.
Is it safe to exercise while I am pregnant?
Yes! Keeping active may help reduce back pain, ease constipation, decrease risk of gestational diabetes, help you avoid preeclampsia , reduce the need for cesarean birth, promote healthy weight, strengthen your heart and blood vessels, and help with losing weight after giving birth.
If you’ve been active and have a regular exercise routine, you may do the same routine with guidance from your provider.
If you’re new to exercise, starting slow at five minutes a day and increasing five minutes each week to reach 30 minutes a day of exercise is a good goal.
Talk with your provider about what exercises will be safe for you.
Are muscle cramps normal during pregnancy?
Yes. Muscle cramps are normal during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. To help prevent them, make sure that you’re well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, stretching, and staying active. Talk to your provider if the cramping is severe and frequent.
Is it normal to feel depressed during pregnancy?
Yes. Prenatal depression is one of the most common complications of pregnancy. It affects up to 15% of pregnancies. Know that it’s not your fault and speaking to your provider can help you with a treatment plan to help you feel better. Untreated depression can pose problems for you and your baby.
How often should I feel my baby kick?
You’ll start feeling kicks or movement in your belly at about 20 weeks (about four and a half months) or later. Every baby is different; some babies are more active than others. It’s good to learn your baby’s movement patterns so that you can sense when they’re not moving like they usually do. You can do kick counting to keep track of your baby’s movement. It’s also important to go to your regular prenatal visits so your provider can help monitor your baby’s health and movement.
If you believe that your baby isn’t moving as much or you’re concerned, notify your provider right away.
Is it safe to have sex while pregnant?
In healthy pregnancies, sex is safe. However, there are things to keep in mind when having sex, such as things that could harm you or your baby. Also, sex should not be painful and uncomfortable. Warning signs and symptoms to watch out for during or after sex:
- Heavy bleeding.
- Leaking amniotic fluid.
- Painful cramps.
- Contractions after sex.
Is smoking safe while pregnant?
No. If you’re a smoker, you should stop smoking as soon as you find out or think you’re pregnant. Smoking poses health risks for you and your baby such as:
- Preterm labor.
- Ectopic pregnancy.
- Bleeding from the vagina.
- Placental abruption.
- Placenta previa.
- Birth defects.
- Low birth weight.
- Miscarriage.
- Stillbirth.
- Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
What position should I sleep in?
It’s best to sleep on your side, preferably on your left side. As your baby grows, the weight of your baby can make it uncomfortable to lay on your back and pressure can be placed on one of your major blood arteries. Lying on your left side helps to get the best blood flow to your baby and may improve kidney function.