Pregnancy and Lifestyle

Pregnancy and Lifestyle

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QUESTION:  I'm pregnant and thought it would be fun, but everyone tells me

I'll have to change my whole lifestyle.  What makes sense? What should I be

doing?

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ANSWER:  First of all, let me say that being pregnant should be a very

exciting time, and though there are clearly things to be aware of to maintain

a sane and comfortable pregnancy, you should be able to continue the lifestyle

you're accustomed to.  Some things should be avoided, however, and strenuous

activities such as exercising should not be done to excess.  Here are a few

things to keep in mind.

    Alcohol consumption and tobacco use should be avoided throughout your

pregnancy.  There is no conclusive evidence on exactly what drinking levels

are safe, and smoking has serious proven risks including possible miscarriage,

premature births or stillbirth, low birth weight, sudden death syndrome, and

infant respiratory infections.

    Drugs and medications should also be avoided, or at least until the 15th

week when all your baby's organs and structures are well along in their

formation (with the nervous system lagging along behind).  Aspirin, because of

its anticoagulant properties, is not recommended either.  A daily multivitamin

with iron is frequently prescribed since most women do not store sufficient

levels in their bodies to meet iron needs after pregnancy.  If any vitamin

should cause nausea, though, consult your doctor.  Too many vitamins can be as

harmful as not taking any.

    Swimming and bathing are totally permissible, though douching (especially

with douche kits) is not advisable because the pressure of the douche solution

increases the risk for rupturing membranes.  Most infections can be treated

with alternate methods.

    Work and travel can be maintained throughout pregnancy unless

complications arise, or if your job involves intense physical labor or

exposure to toxic or dangerous materials.  Just keep in mind that you will

fatigue more easily later in the pregnancy, so allow yourself time to rest.

    Feel free to engage in sexual intercourse until it becomes uncomfortable.

The same holds true for exercise.  Just use your good judgement. Don't

overtax your body and if you did not exercise before, pregnancy is not the

time to start a rigorous regime.

    A 24-pound weight gain is suggested for an average-sized woman, but up to

40 pounds is normal depending on your physical makeup.  Keep in mind that

pregnancy is not the time to diet, but neither should you "eat for two."

Don't drink too much milk.  Your calcium requirements can be met in other ways

and milk can cause unnecessary weight gain.

    Bearing these things in mind, relax and enjoy your pregnancy.  It can be

fun, just as you thought.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace

the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your

doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical

problem.