Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy often comes with many questions. Get answers to some of the most common inquiries to help you feel informed and prepared throughout your journey.
A little intermittent spotting can be normal, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. A small amount of blood may appear as the placenta is attaching to the uterine wall. Another cause might be the breakdown of a small vessel on the cervix following intercourse. It is best to document any bleeding and call our office.
This may be due to "round ligament" pain. These ligaments support the uterus. They will sometimes spasm or cramp, causing discomfort. Usually, modification of your activity and avoiding sudden movement will decrease the pain. This problem is very common between 12 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. However, if any pain becomes persistent or increases in frequency or severity, you should call your doctor.
Headaches early in pregnancy may result from hormonal variation, nasal congestion, fatigue, eye strain, anxiety, or tension. In the vast majority of cases, however, no cause can be demonstrated. By mid-pregnancy, most of these headaches decrease in severity or disappear. Treatment is largely symptomatic. You might try the following:
- Relaxation and rest in a darkened room
- Cool compress to the forehead
- Tylenol
- If your headaches persist or are severe, you should call our office.
Yes, however, your perm may not respond the same during your pregnancy. Don’t blame your stylist if you don’t get as much curl with the perm. Instead, blame your hormones. We do suggest waiting until after the first trimester. Hair color may vary too.
Please call your provider if your oral temperature is above 100.4 degrees.
We recommend limiting any lifting to less than 50 pounds. Please check with your provider as each person’s fitness level is different. Also, do remember to use good body mechanics to prevent unnecessary straining of the lower back muscles; bend at your knees rather than the waist when picking something up.
If you feel it necessary to do some painting or refinishing, be certain you do it in a well-ventilated room. Latex-based paints are the safest to use during pregnancy. Do not use oil-based paints.
There are several prenatal classes available for you and your family at Mary Greeley Medical Center. Visit mgmc.org for classes and events.
Nosebleeds are a common occurrence with pregnancy. They occur because of increased blood flow to the mucous membranes. This problem happens more in winter months when heating systems in homes make the air dry. Using a humidifier may help overcome this dryness. If the bleeding is frequent and heavy, please call us. The gums tend to bleed easily because of pregnancy hormones causing some swelling and tenderness. We recommend seeing your dentist during pregnancy and practicing good oral hygiene. If you suspect a dental problem, contact your dentist.
Yes. This can be common throughout your pregnancy. Increased blood supply and hormones cause your vagina to increase its normal secretions. The normal acidic environment also changes, which causes yeast infections to be more common. Wear cotton underwear. Call our office if your discharge smells foul or causes burning or itching.
No, you should not douche during pregnancy.
Yes, unless there is a specific problem with your pregnancy such as placenta previa, history of premature labor, etc. You may find sexual activity becomes more awkward or difficult as time goes on. Different positions for intercourse may be more comfortable. During the last month of pregnancy, you should consult your doctor regarding whether or not you should continue.
No, we recommend that you do not use saunas or hot tubs during pregnancy. The high temperature can cause damage to your developing baby.
No, but controlling the amount and rate of weight gain does help. Each individual’s skin has the ability to stretch, but nobody knows how much. For that reason, you cannot avoid stretch marks, which are most common on the abdomen and may occur on the thighs and breasts. It may help with the itching that frequently accompanies these marks to massage the skin daily with lotion. It may be of comfort to know that these will usually fade somewhat after delivery.
Braxton-Hicks contractions may be felt as early as week 20 of your pregnancy. They are more intense in women who have had a previous pregnancy. The uterus is flexing its muscles, getting ready for the real contractions of labor. Braxton-Hicks contractions are sometimes uncomfortable. They last anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. If you have discomfort with these contractions, try lying down and relaxing, or getting up and walking around. Most often changing your position will stop the contractions. If you have questions or concerns about any contractions you are experiencing, please call.
