Q1:Is Ultrasound Safe?
A1:Yes. The possibility of ultrasound having adverse effects has been studied many times without evidence that the test causes any problems.
Q2:My friend told me that having sex can cause me to go into labor early. Is that true?
A2:Orgasm causes mild uterine contractions, so if you have a history of early labor your doctor may warn against intercourse and orgasm. Chemicals in semen may also stimulate contractions, so it may not be advisable for the woman's partner to ejaculate inside her. However, in a normal pregnancy, even one near delivery, this is usually not a problem.
Q3:Is it all right to drink alcohol while I'm pregnant?
A3:Alcohol use by a pregnant woman carries considerable risk. Even moderate use of alcohol has been linked to an increase in the chance of miscarriage. Excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy can result in abnormalities in the baby. Chronic use of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which is abnormal fetal development.
Q4:What can I do if I smoke?
A4:The best way to help yourself is to quit smoking completely before and during your pregnancy. If you can't do this—it's hard to quit cold turkey—reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke. It may help reduce your risks.
Q5:Can drug use affect my pregnancy?
A5:Yes! Certain drugs damage the developing fetus. In addition, a woman who abuses drugs may have more complications of pregnancy.
Q6:What effects can my cigarette smoking have on the baby?
A6:Infants born to mothers who smoke weigh less than other babies. This can cause problems for the baby. Lower IQ scores and increased incidence of reading disorders have been noted in children born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy. Hyperactivity is also higher among babies born to women who smoked. Research has shown that smoking during pregnancy interferes with the body's absorption of vitamins B and C and folic acid. One recent study linked cigarette smoking by a mother-to-be with mental retardation in her baby. In addition, newborns of mothers who smoke may experience nicotine deprivation. Adults who suffer from nicotine deprivation exhibit symptoms such as cravings, nervousness and irritability.
Q7:Are there times we should avoid sex during pregnancy?
A7:Avoid sexual activity if you have any of the following problems or conditions:
placenta previa or a low-lying placenta
incompetent cervix
premature labor
multiple fetuses
ruptured bag of waters
pain
unexplained vaginal bleeding or discharge
you can't find a comfortable position
either partner has an unhealed herpes lesion
you believe labor has begun
Q8:What is the chance of my baby having a major birth defect?
A8:Every pregnant couple worries about birth defects. The risk of a birth defect is very low, only about 1 to 2%.
Q9:How do I figure out my heart rate?
A9:When you're pregnant, your pulse rate (heart rate) should not exceed 140 beats a minute for more than 15 minutes during a workout. Check your pulse with the following steps.
Look at a clock with a second hand.
Place the index and middle fingers of one hand on the side of your neck where you can feel your pulse.
After finding your pulse, watch the second hand until it reaches the 12.
Begin counting the pulse beats until the second hand reaches the 2 (10 seconds).
Multiply that number by 6 to find your heart rate.
Q10:I'm 9 weeks pregnant and haven't exercised in years. Can I start now?
A10:It is possible to start exercising now, but take it slowly. Discuss your desire to exercise with your healthcare provider before you begin any program. If you don't have problems with your pregnancy, you should be able to exercise as long as you are comfortable. The key is not to try to do too much too fast. The best exercises for you are walking and swimming.
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