Common Questions During Pregnancy
Vaginal Bleeding
Mild spotting can be normal within the first three months (12 weeks) of pregnancy. However, it is always better to be evaluated with any episodes. If you experience any vaginal bleeding with the following conditions, call the office immediately for an evaluation, or if after hours go to the Emergency Room or call 911:
- Saturating a pad in an hour
- Severe cramping with bleeding
- Have an Rh-negative blood type
- Passing large clots
Travel
For routine, uncomplicated pregnancies, you may travel up to your 36th week (last month before your due date). After that, it is recommended you ask a provider about your specific travel plans at your prenatal visit.
When traveling long distances, we recommend that you get up/out and walk around at least every 1-2 hours to improve circulation and avoid urinary tract infections. We also recommend taking a copy of your medical records with you if you are traveling towards the end of your pregnancy, and keep our office number handy for questions.
Exercise
Exercise in moderation is encouraged during pregnancy. It will help with weight gain, labor and recovery, and decrease general aches and pains throughout pregnancy. If you have not been exercising regularly before pregnancy, start slowly and for shorts amounts of time. Often, you won’t feel like exercising much until the second trimester (after 12-14 weeks) of your pregnancy.
- In general, avoid any activities that would pose any increased risk of accidental falls (especially from heights), injury or trauma to your belly.
- Stay well hydrated and don’t get over-heated.
- Low-impact activities such as walking, elliptical use and swimming are ideal for pregnancy.
Dental Work
- Good dental health has been shown to improve outcomes in pregnancies.
- If x-rays are necessary, be sure a lead apron is used to shield your abdomen.
- Local numbing agents (i.e. novocaine, carbocaine, Lidocaine, xylocaine, etc.) without epinephrine are ok in pregnancy.
- Normal dental procedures under local anesthetic (drilling and filling) may be done in any time during the pregnancy. Long procedures should be postponed until after the second trimester (after 12 weeks) if possible.
- Please have the dentist call our office with any questions.
Painting
It is recommended that you avoid exposure to oil-based paints and other solvent-containing substances as much as possible during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. If you do paint, make sure you are in a well ventilated area and wear protective clothing if needed.
Hair Coloring / Permanents
Some sources recommend that hair dying and permanents be avoided during the first trimester, but otherwise, it is considered safe during pregnancy. In theory, highlighting is even safer. It should be done in a well ventilated area. Pregnant women should avoid products containing sodium hydroxide. Avoid all hair dyes containing copper, nickel and lead, and whenever possible, substitute chemical dyes with vegetable dyes and cold water rinses.
Tanning Beds and Self-Tanners
Self-tanners and tanning are NOT recommended during pregnancy
Hot Tubs / Saunas
AVOID hot tubs and saunas during pregnancy. They can raise the internal body temperature, and the baby has no way to cool itself down.
**If you have any questions or have a medical problem during our regular office hours, please call the office so that we will be able to review your chart and medical history while discussing your problem with you. Continuity of care is important.