Pregnancy FAQs
When will I feel my baby move?
You will begin to feel movement sometime between 16-25 weeks. Initially, movements will be infrequent and may feel like small flutters. As your baby grows, you will feel movement more often.
Start counting fetal movements once daily, beginning at 28 weeks, until you count 10 movements within 2 hours. A good time to do this is 20-30 minutes after breakfast or dinner. If you are concerned about movement, eat or drink something with sugar or a small amount of caffeine, lie on your side and press your hands on your belly. If you have concerns about or notice a decrease in movements, contact your healthcare provider.
Why am I so tired? What’s the best sleep position?
It’s normal to feel more tired! You may also need more sleep than usual. Listen to your body and try to get 8-10 hours per night. Sleep on your side to allow for maximum blood flow to baby. Lying on your back can cause your blood pressure to drop. A pregnancy pillow or a pillow behind your back and between your knees will improve comfort. As your pregnancy progresses, use more pillows and frequent position changes to stay comfortable.
Can I care for my pets?
If you have cats, let your healthcare provider know. Avoid cleaning the litter box (ideally, your partner will take over this chore for the duration of your pregnancy) or use gloves if you must clean it. Toxoplasmosis is a rare infection you can get from cat feces.
What do I need to know about dental care?
You may experience some teeth and gum sensitivity. Inform your dentist of your pregnancy and shield your abdomen if x-rays are required.
Can I use a Hot Tub?
Using a hot tub (Jacuzzi) or whirlpool bath is not recommended. High temperatures have been associated with increased risk of neutral tube defects such as spina bifida. We recommend avoiding both hot tubs and saunas during your pregnancy—especially during the first 21 weeks.
Can I Travel?
You should be able to travel out of town during your pregnancy until 35-36 weeks if your pregnancy has been uncomplicated and a few precautions are taken. We recommend you discuss your travel plans during pregnancy with your healthcare provider regarding the most up to date guidelines and recommendations. When you do travel, be sure to take breaks to stand up/walk around at least every two hours. If traveling by vehicle, wear a seat belt, positioning it under your abdomen as your baby grows. If you are involved in a car accident, please call your medical provider’s office immediately. You may need to be monitored.
Can I go to the salon for treatments?
The following salon treatments are considered safe in pregnancy: hair coloring or highlighting, nail care including artificial nails, facials, massage and waxing or electrolysis.
Can I exercise?
30 minutes of exercise is recommended daily in uncomplicated pregnancies. This could include walking, jogging, biking, aerobic class, yoga, swimming, etc. Weight training is acceptable. Listen to your body during exercise and drink plenty of fluids. After 20 weeks avoid lying flat on your back and avoid activities with a high risk of falling or trauma to your belly (i.e. snow skiing, kickboxing, horseback riding).
Can I have sex?
You can have sex unless you are having complications or sex becomes too uncomfortable. There are times when exercise and sex should be avoided. This includes vaginal bleeding, leaking amniotic fluid, preterm labor, chest pain regular uterine contractions, decreased fetal movement. We recommend consulting a pelvic floor specialist or trained maternity and postpartum physical therapist if you experience pain or discomfort, as well as to get clear advice for you, specifically.
MEND
If you’ve lost a pregnancy or infant child, you can find support and resources for healing through MEND (Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death).
