Common pregnancy concerns will obviously vary according to whether it’s your first baby or a later pregnancy, but they’re likely to include questions about your diet, weight, symptoms, and general health. So – let’s dive in to the ones we get asked about most.
Common Pregnancy Concerns About Diet
“I’m worried about getting enough nutrients for my baby’s health, but I’m also trying to avoid harmful foods. It’s a bit overwhelming trying to eat healthily, and I’m always wondering if I’m doing it right.”
What Foods Should I Avoid in My Diet During Pregnancy?
The thought of harming your baby is scary, especially during a first pregnancy. So, one of the most common pregnancy concerns is about food to avoid.
Fish: Avoid raw shellfish; limit tuna because it has more mercury in it; avoid cold-smoked or cured fish that can have listeria bacteria; and limit oily fish like salmon and mackerel to two portions a week – they may contain pollutants, but you do need omega-3 fatty acids for your baby’s brain development.
Dairy: Avoid anything made from unpasteurized milk. The reason, again, is possible listeria contamination.
The nutritional expert at your women’s health center will discuss other items to avoid that you usually enjoy.
Alcohol: The is no evidenced “safe” amount – some passes through the placenta to your baby. It is best to refrain from any alcohol.
How Do I Ensure Nutritional Balance During Pregnancy?
A varied diet will give you enough vitamins and minerals, especially folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA. Folic acid is important during the first 28 days, so try to increase your intake to recommended amounts before you start a pregnancy. Both folic acid and fish oils can be in the form of supplements.
Vegetables and fruit provide vitamins and minerals. You’ll get iron and folic acid from grains (cereals). And, if your diet allows for animal products, dairy items will give you calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and D. You can get plenty of protein from beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and meat.
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, however, speak to a clinical nutritionist to ensure a nutritional balance.
Pregnancy Questions and Concerns About Aversions, Cravings, Hydration, and Caffeine
The best way to manage food aversions or cravings is to concentrate on getting the nutrition you need from your overall diet.
You can also disguise a disliked item in another preferred choice! Or hide a craved food you know will unbalance your diet. When you don’t feel like eating, try “little and often” rather than full meals.
Keep water near you during the day to avoid dehydration. You and your fetus need around 8-10 glasses of water a day to provide for
- your baby’s amniotic fluid,
- extra circulation systems for both of you, and
- an increase in blood.
Another common pregnancy concern is caffeine in cola, coffee, tea, and energy drinks. The recommendation is to limit caffeine to less than 200 mg a day, or about 2 cups of coffee.
Common Pregnancy Concerns About Weight Gain
How much weight gain is healthy?
You’ll gain weight but want to shed any extra weight afterwards! Expect to gain no more than 25 lbs. This depends on whether you’re overweight or underweight beforehand – and also whether you’re having more than one baby – then, up to 40 lbs is expected.
How can I check my weight gain?
If you attend for regular prenatal care, your doctor will monitor this. However, if you think in terms of 2-4 lbs in the first trimester and one pound a week thereafter, you can feel relaxed about weight gain.
Remember, too, why you’re putting on weight: It includes your enlarging uterus, a growing baby, amniotic fluid and placenta, extra blood supply, fat stores, and breast tissue!
Challenging Symptoms During Pregnancy
“The morning sickness has been tough, and I’m unsure if it’s normal or something to worry about. And then there’s the fatigue; I never knew I could be this tired.”
Morning sickness: Try to eat in small amounts while this lasts (it can happen at any time of day!) – avoiding fats and choosing higher carbs. Sip your drinks slowly if you feel sick.
Fatigue: You feel more tired because you’re growing a baby! So – rest when you need to. And limit extra activity while you’re at your most tired – usually the first 12 weeks due to hormone changes, and the last few weeks as you grow bigger. Ask for help, and remember that, paradoxically, exercise can help you re-energize!
Back pain and body aches: Again, some physical activity can help, as can sleeping on your side to relieve back pain. Your ligaments are stretching, so avoid unnecessary strain while lifting or bending. Stretching exercises or yoga can be helpful.
General Health Concerns During Pregnancy
“Finding a comfortable sleeping position is difficult now my belly’s getting bigger. I toss and turn and worry if I’m accidentally sleeping in a position that isn’t safe for the baby.
Sleep: This is a common pregnancy concern. You’ll feel extra tired at times, so you need more sleep. Your body is under pressure to support your growing baby, and sleep restores your energy and bodily systems. Find whatever position helps you sleep comfortably, even upright at times.
Exercise: Managing the right amount of exercise isn’t a spreadsheet matter, but aim for 150 minutes of aerobic exercise a week to keep your muscles healthy. You’ll know if you overexert yourself. Keep your heart rate less than 140 bpm and increase water intake.
Emotional health: Women’s healthcare specialists understand about managing the emotional changes you’re undergoing, so talk to them. Also, do something enjoyable each day, use whatever stress-busting techniques work for you, and maybe keep a journal to help you make sense of your pregnancy feelings.
If you’re worried about any of the following issues, your ObGyn specialist can advise you how best to manage:
- Swelling in your feet and hands, especially in the later stages of pregnancy
- Braxton Hicks “false labor” contractions – and how to distinguish them from real labor
- Changes in your skin, nails, or hair
- Pain that worries you
- Varicose veins
Stella Mattina for All Pregnancy Questions and Concerns
At Stella Mattina, our expert women’s healthcare specialists understand these common pregnancy concerns and can put your mind at rest. We focus on personalized, compassionate care for all women and encourage you to access regular prenatal care so you can enjoy the full nine months of your pregnancy. Contact us today and let’s talk!
Dr. Krum is currently in practice in Arlington, TX. He received his undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University, then attended UTMB Galveston for medical school, finishing in 1986, completing his residency there in 1990. Providing a full range of obstetrical and gynecological care, he specializes in the treatment of endometriosis and robotic surgery. He arranges his schedule so that same-day appointments are usually available.