There are tons of questions and concerns surrounding pregnancy. Here are a few of the top questions and answers that arise for expectant mothers and their spouses:
What Can I Do Before I’m Pregnant?
To prepare for a healthy pregnancy, there are a few things you can do even before you conceive. A healthy diet is essential. Eating lots of greens, fiber, and lean protein and adding a daily multivitamin and a folic acid supplement to your diet can contribute to a healthy pregnancy prior to conception. It is also important to visit your doctor for a pre-pregnancy checkup prior to conception. Be sure to let them know if you are on any medications, or have any pre-existing conditions so that they can help you better prepare for issues that may arise after you conceive.
What Should I Expect from My First Prenatal Checkup?
Your first prenatal appointment usually occurs around 8 weeks. This visit may be one of the most comprehensive, and is very important for your baby’s overall health. During this appointment, your doctor will likely preform a detailed medical history and a physical exam. This could include a pap smear, cervical cultures, and an ultrasound. Using the ultrasound and the date of your last menstrual period, your doctor can usually estimate your due date.
What Genetic Tests Do I Need?
To help increase understanding about potential genetic disorders, your doctor may offer the option of non-invasive prenatal testing during the first half of your pregnancy. Modern prenatal testing is now so advanced that screening for Down syndrome can be performed as early as 9 weeks. Initial genetic screening may require a simple blood test, or include a blood test and a special type of ultrasound.
If you are not yet pregnant or are currently pregnant but worried that your child may have an inherited genetic condition, you can get a carrier screening to see if you’re at risk of passing a condition on to your future child.
What Shouldn’t I Eat While I’m Pregnant?
While pregnant, you should be careful with certain foods and try to avoid others altogether. All meat, poultry and fish should be fully cooked. Alcohol and unpasteurized dairy products, which can contain harmful bacteria, should be avoided entirely. If you have questions regarding your diet, be sure to check in with your doctor before consuming anything that you think may be questionable.
How Do I Make a Birth Plan for Labor and Delivery?
A birth plan is a clear and simple explanation of your preferences about the birth of your child. A birth plan can include things such as who will be present, what pain medication you would like to receive, who will cut the umbilical cord, and other details. There is always the chance that it may be necessary to deviate from the plan if your health or your baby’s health is at risk. Creating a birth plan can ensure that your wants and needs are known prior to labor.
https://www.webmd.com/baby/genetic-screening-tests-women-35-older#1
http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/pregnancy-precautions.html
