Almost
4 million new births are added to the U.S.
population each year. That equates to 12.4 out of 1,000 residents, and almost
10% of those births are preterm. An average of 6 out of every 1,000 births end
up suffering a birth defect or traumatic birth injury, and many of those are
preterm deliveries. Consequences of early deliveries can be as common as
jaundice and anemia. But preterm deliveries can also result in long-term problems
such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and cerebral palsy.
Many birth defects or
birth injuries can be avoided altogether if
the parents simply gain the right knowledge before the child is born. But what
questions should every pregnant woman ask her doctor?
What
Diet Should I Follow and What Vices Should I Avoid?
Regardless
of what Hollywood movies and the media claim, eating for two is not necessary
during pregnancy. But eating correctly is. Natural fruit, green vegetables,
calcium-rich foods, and whole grains are great for fetal development and
growth. Cut back on fish and eliminate high-mercury options such as raw fish,
shark, and swordfish. Also, cut out soft cheese and deli meats as they often
contain dangerous bacteria. Avoid all alcohol during pregnancy, stop smoking if
you haven’t, and quite the caffeine habit at least during the first trimester.
How
Much Weight Should I Expect or Plan to Gain?
Pregnancy
is a time when you actually need to gain some weight to ensure a healthy child.
Gain too little, and your risk factors for premature labor increase along with
higher chances of a birth defect or traumatic birth injury. Pregnancy weight
gain recommendations are based on individual needs, and your doctor will be
able to pinpoint the correct number for your specific situation. But
gestational weight gain is based on the mother’s body mass index at the time
of conception. So depending on your body’s
condition and your current activity level, a professional suggestion of
anywhere between 11 and 40 pounds is to be expected.
What
Activities Should I Do or Avoid?
Pregnancy
isn’t just a time to put your feet up and let everyone else pamper you. There
will be plenty of time for that towards the end of the pregnancy. But if you
were active prior to conception, you should continue during the gestational
period… to a point. Avoid heavy exercise
and don’t attempt to run a marathon. But light to moderate activity is
beneficial to you and your child. Avoid lying on your back from the second
trimester on. Stay out of hot tubs and saunas due to the extreme heat. And
become a hand washing warrior to combat germs during your pregnancy. As for
sex, anything that doesn’t cause pain or discomfort is usually fine.
What
Screenings and Special Tests Should I Need or Expect?
There
are several routine screenings and tests that every pregnant woman will need
undergo. These include ultrasounds, amniocentesis, and urine and blood labs for
preeclampsia, anemia, diabetes, hepatitis, and HIV/AIDS. However, for older
pregnant women, those with genetic pre-dispositions, or difficult/high-risk
pregnancies, their doctor may recommend genetic testing. Cytomegalovirus and
antibody testing may also be ordered for those who have been exposed to certain
viruses. These tests are generally inexpensive and covered by most insurance.
Moreover, they may help you deliver a healthy child and avoid needing to
contact a birth injury attorney for avoidable birth
complications.
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