Being pregnant is an exciting – and very confusing – time. So what are the key things your obstetrician really wants you to know? Two experts from the Mediclinic network spill the beans.
- You really, really need to stop smoking It sounds so obvious, given the health warning labels on cigarette boxes… but even though the harmful effects of smoking on unborn babies are so well-researched, many pregnant mothers still insist on having a puff.
- Weird stuff will happen Your beautiful ‘innie’ belly button will probably become an ‘outie’. The skin on your tummy will probably itch like crazy. You’ll probably attract twice as many mosquitoes as your partner does. Your hair and nails will probably grow much faster than normal. All these weird bodily quirks are a natural and normal part of pregnancy, so don’t be surprised – and don’t panic – if they start happening to you.
- You need to let your obstetrician know if anything feels wrong “Please book early,” says Dr Vusi Hlongwa, obstetrician at Mediclinic Medforum in Pretoria. “Monitor foetal movements at home, and report to the hospital immediately if you experience bleeding, discharges or draining liquid, and if you notice an absence of foetal movements.” All these are signs that something could be seriously wrong. Don’t take any risks. And don’t be shy. Every obstetrician has a bunch of stories about pregnant mums who rushed in with a false alarm (such terrible abdominal pain that ends up just being gas).
- Look after yourself It’s never good to eat poorly and avoid exercise – especially when you’re expecting. Most common exercises are safe during pregnancy and will help you maintain a healthy weight, giving you the energy, you need (and you’ll need plenty of it!) to get your body and your baby safely to term. Roll out your yoga mat and speak to your obstetrician or your GP about the exercises and meal plans that will work best for you.
- Engage your filters “During your pregnancy, many people will feel the need to give you advice – from your best friend to the cashier at the grocery store,” says Dr Dalene Barnard, a gynaecologist and obstetrician at Mediclinic. Be careful who you listen to. “Pick two or three people you trust – for example, your partner, your mother and your gynaecologist – and pay attention only to their advice. The rest can cause unnecessary anxiety.”