Answers to Your Pregnancy Questions
While you are pregnant your body will change and adapt to accommodate the new life growing inside you. Some of these changes may concern you, but most are normal and should not cause alarm. However, there are circumstances that require talking with your doctor. The following information will help you sort these out. When in doubt, call your doctor.
Common Physical Concerns
What should I do if I’m spotting?
Spotting or light bleeding is common during early pregnancy and is usually not a sign of a problem. If you are spotting, avoid strenuous activities and intercourse until the spotting or bleeding has stopped for 24 hours. If the bleeding persists for more than 3 to 4 days, is as heavy as a period or accompanied by cramping, call your doctor.
How can I reduce my nausea?
Nausea and sometimes vomiting are very common in early pregnancy and are best treated by eating small meals and dry snacks, such as toast or crackers, between meals. Avoid greasy, spicy foods and smells that aggravate your nausea. If vomiting persists and does not improve with proper diet, medication may be necessary. To help ease nausea and/or vomiting ask your doctor about taking a Vitamin B6 100 mg tablet, Emetrex, Sea Bands, ginger or candied ginger. If you are unable to manage your nausea or vomiting, make an appointment to see your doctor.
What can I take for heartburn?
Many pregnant women experience heartburn -- especially late in pregnancy. For relief you may use any low sodium antacid such as Maalox, Gelucil, Mylanta, Gaviscon, Tums or Rolaids.
How can I remedy constipation?
Especially early in the pregnancy, constipation is a common complaint. This uncomfortable condition is best treated by eating regular meals and high-fiber foods such as whole grain bread, fruit, vegetables, prunes and fiber cereals. Drinking 4 to 6 glasses of water every day also helps. Bulk laxatives like Fibercon, Metamucil and Citrucil may be used sparingly for constipation, if needed. DO NOT take laxative pills or mineral oil during pregnancy.
What can I do about headaches?
While headaches can occur often during pregnancy, most will subside with rest and relaxation. If medicine is necessary, you may take the recommended dose of Tylenol (acetaminophen). Do not take aspirin or other pain medications such as Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen). For persistent headaches, call your doctor.
I have hemorrhoids. What should I do?
Hemorrhoids are common in pregnancy, especially during the later months. Treat hemorrhoids with warm sitz baths twice a day. After the sitz baths, apply Preparation H cream and a Tucks. Taking steps to avoid constipation is also beneficial.
Illnesses and Medication
Discuss medications with your doctor.
Medication during pregnancy should be used with caution. If you are already taking medication for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, thyroid, etc., continue the medication but make sure to talk with your doctor about your medications as soon as you know you are pregnant.
How should I treat a cold or flu?
Most medications used for colds and flu only help relieve symptoms and do not cure infections. Since it is best to avoid medication during pregnancy, do not take it for mild respiratory symptoms. For more bothersome symptoms, you may use Chloraseptic throat lozenges or throat spray. For a cough you may take plain Robitussin. If you have a temperature higher than 100 degrees, contact your doctor.
What can I take for muscle and joint pain?
If medicine is necessary, you may take the recommended dose of Tylenol (acetaminophen). Do not take aspirin or other pain medications such as Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen).
How can I get relief from congestion or a cough?
For congestion you may take the recommended dose of Actifed, Sudafed or Neo-Synephrine nasal spray. For a cough you may take plain Robitussin. If your symptoms persist for more than 3 to 4 days or if you have a temperature higher than 100 degrees, contact your doctor.
I have diarrhea. What should I do?