Whether you are just having a baby or expecting your third, you are bound to have some questions about pregnancy and childbirth. Every pregnancy is different and so is the journey and birth. We have compiled ten of the most common pregnancy questions and answers for you to help ease your fears related to pregnancy and birth.
1. When should I worry if I tried to get pregnant but did not succeed?
You should talk to your doctor about your fertility if: You are younger than 35 and have not been able to get pregnant after a year of frequent sex without birth control. You are 35 or older and have been unable to get pregnant after six months of frequent sex without contraception.
2. Can I drink alcohol during pregnancy?
The answer is No! Any amount of alcohol consumed during pregnancy is harmful for the baby. Because the umbilical cord provides food and oxygen for the baby to grow in the womb, any amount of alcohol can affect the baby’s growth and the development of the brain and other organs.
3. Are there activities I should avoid during the first trimester of pregnancy?
Once you are pregnant and have reached the first trimester, expectant mothers need to avoid any activities that pose a risk to them and the baby. These activities include skiing, skating and rock climbing. As the abdomen expands, the center of gravity shifts and so a small fall can be fatal.
4. Is sexual intercourse safe during pregnancy?
Sexual intercourse during pregnancy is perfectly safe for a woman unless her doctor has recommended otherwise. In fact, a woman’s sex drive may increase during certain stages of pregnancy, and sex can have some benefits.
5. I feel so tired. What can I do to feel better?
With the onset of pregnancy, you may feel tired, especially during the first 12 weeks. If you suffer from morning sickness, fatigue can also make the nausea worse. At the beginning of pregnancy, fatigue makes its way into your life. While fatigue does not harm you or your baby, it can make it difficult to complete everyday tasks. Also, the extra weight will make you feel tired and exhausted. As your baby gets bigger, it may be harder to sleep well at night. You may find it uncomfortable to lie down, or you may have to get up to go to the bathroom just when you want to get comfortable. Your sleeping habits change when you are pregnant, and it’s likely that you’ll sleep less deeply at night and wake up more often. Get as much rest as possible. Put your feet up during the day and accept offers of help from colleagues and family.
6. I got breast implants. Can I still breastfeed my baby?
With a few exceptions, most women with breast implants can breastfeed. The ability to breastfeed depends on the condition of your breasts before surgery. The type of incision also affects breastfeeding. Implants can also affect the amount of breast milk you can produce.
7. How long should I be allowed to breastfeed beyond my due date?
Experts recommend that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months. After that, breastfeeding can continue until 12 months.
8. What are the stages of labor?
During labor, the initial phase begins with labor pain and ends with the cervix fully dilated and the amniotic sac falling. The second phase begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends when the fetus is born. The third phase begins after the birth of the fetus and ends with the birth of the placenta.
9. Should I have an epidural or not?
The use of an epidural during labor is a personal decision. A doctor may recommend an epidural if your contractions are so strong that you feel exhausted or out of control. An epidural can help you relax. You have a higher-than-average risk of needing a C-section.
10. How long does it take for the baby to push out completely?
Your baby’s position, size, and ability to push will determine the length of this period. For first-time mothers, pushing takes an average of one to two hours. In some cases, pushing can last longer than two hours if both mother and baby can tolerate it.
These are just a few of the many questions you might have about pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood. Mylo’s Pregnancy and Baby Companion app helps you know exactly what you should do to get pregnant, or undergo IVF treatment and get pregnant or become a mother, or even if you are thinking about becoming a parent. With Mylo, you get constant support from a community that helps each other and the guidance of experienced experts. Pregnancy is easy when you can rely on apps like Mylo Pregnancy and Baby Companion.