10 Frequently Asked Questions During Pregnancy

 

1.- When should I go to the gynecologist once I confirm the pregnancy?

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While it's true that it's always ideal to have a routine checkup with your trusted gynecologist at least once a year, when a pregnancy is confirmed, whether with a home test, a blood test, or an ultrasound, it's best to schedule an appointment with an obstetrician-gynecologist as soon as possible. It's important to confirm that the pregnancy is within the uterus and not implanted elsewhere. It's not an urgent matter, but it is important to continue with checkups that allow for the healthy growth of the baby and take care of the health of both of you.

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2.- How can I know how many weeks pregnant I am?

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To calculate the weeks and/or months of pregnancy, you need to know the date of your last menstrual period (LMP); this will help you count the weeks up to the current date. Sometimes the date of your last period is unknown, so it's important to visit your gynecologist to confirm your gestational age with an ultrasound during your prenatal checkups. The quantitative beta-HCG blood test measures hormone levels during each stage of pregnancy and allows you to estimate approximate weeks and helps us validate the baby's growth even if you don't know the exact number of weeks.

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3.- Can I have sex during pregnancy?

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YES! Sexual intercourse does not affect the baby as long as your doctor has confirmed the pregnancy is healthy and uncomplicated during your checkups. The baby is protected inside your sac and by the closed cervix. We recommend talking with your partner and practicing positions that make you feel comfortable and that don't put pressure on your lower abdomen.

4.- How many kilos do you gain during pregnancy?

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Weight at the beginning of pregnancy often influences subsequent weight gain. Weight gain is estimated to be 1 to 3 kilograms during the first trimester, then 0.5 kilograms per week until birth. If you are currently at a healthy weight, your total weight gain will be 10-12 kilograms; if you are overweight, your total weight gain will be 7 to 11 kilograms; and if you are underweight, your weight gain will be 13 to 18 kilograms.

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5.- Should I change my diet during pregnancy?

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Nutrition is vitally important at any point in our lives; it allows us to maintain a healthy weight, which brings with it health benefits. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, this is no exception; the quantity and quality of food you consume is important to contribute to the proper development and growth of your baby. We recommend including the right amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates, grains, fruits, and vegetables in all your meals. This should be discussed with your gynecologist, who will explain how this influences weight gain during pregnancy.

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6.- What are the risk symptoms during pregnancy?

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It is important that your doctor explains and helps you identify possible symptoms that may occur during pregnancy, since each patient is unique. However, here are the most common and high-risk symptoms, which require immediate medical attention. - Intense and constant headache - Ringing and abnormal noises in the ears - Blurry vision or seeing little lights - Fever or chills - Vaginal fluid leakage with or without bleeding - Decreased fetal movements in the third trimester - Pain in the lower abdomen or pit of the stomach - Swelling in the face, hands, and ankles - Pain or burning when urinating.

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7.- Can I continue to play sports and what type of exercises can I do during pregnancy?

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Physical activity is always recommended. During pregnancy, you can continue with your current level of exercise, or if you don't do it regularly, starting to take daily walks of 10 to 30 minutes will be very helpful. However, you should discuss this with your gynecologist during your prenatal checkups, as it influences whether it's a high-risk pregnancy and your current health status. For most women in ideal health, 30 minutes of medium-impact physical activity is recommended. Walking is an excellent option for first-time mothers.

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8.- At what point do you start feeling the baby during pregnancy?

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Fetal movements, or the sensation of the baby in the womb, are usually gentle and typically occur between weeks 16 and 20 of gestation. Remember that each body is unique, and sometimes you may notice movements early or later than 20 weeks. Therefore, it is necessary to have your pregnancy monitored and followed by a gynecology and obstetrics specialist.

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9.- Can I travel during pregnancy?

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Travel is permitted during pregnancy before 34 weeks, provided the mother is in optimal health and there are no medical contraindications. Recommendations vary depending on the distance and mode of travel. Some flights require proof of health endorsed by your doctor to fly. Always seek advice and plan your travels with your gynecologist.

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10.- How to recognize contractions and labor for birth?

Between weeks 36 and 40 of pregnancy, contractions are expected for the birth of the baby. False contractions or Braxton Hiks occur sporadically, one or two per day. When labor is established, they may occur periodically or rhythmically, and it is very important to consult your doctor to know the right time to go to the hospital. You may experience cramping and mild abdominal pain, partial abdominal hardening, sometimes with lower back pain, and rhythmic contractions that do not stop (lasting between 30 and 35 seconds and approximately three every 10 minutes). Remember that if you experience these symptoms, you should inform your doctor, who will guide you and show you the process for preparing for birth.

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