Are ultrasounds safe?
Yes. No side effects or health concerns have been linked to ultrasounds scans. Studies have shown no problems associated with the procedure. Ultraound is just an ordinary sound but it’s at a high pitch so it cannot be heard by our ears. The scans do produce some heat, but this is less than 1ºC. Plus, it’s over a large area and your baby is constantly moving and protected by the fluid that is smeared over your tummy.
Should I have a swine flu jab?
The NHS recommends all mums-to-be have a seasonal flu jab. This protects you from regular flu, as well as the H1N1 Swine flu variation that can be especially dangerous. This doesn’t mean you have to have the jab if you really don’t want to. Most pregnant women who catch flu won’t suffer more than mild symptoms, but there is an increased risk of complications including miscarriage and stillbirth.
Can I prevent miscarriage?
The most common cause of miscarriage is that there is something wrong with the developing foetus. In this case there is very little that can be done to prevent it happening. The best thing you can do in pregnancy to reduce your chances of miscarriage is to take care of yourself, eat healthily (and avoid potentially harmful foods), and give up alcohol and cigarettes. Try and avoid coming into contact with anyone who is ill, as infections and viruses can very occasionally trigger miscarriage. If you’re worried about stomach cramps or any light bleeding, get yourself checked out by your GP or midwife immediately.
I haven't felt the baby move for a few days, should I be worried?
Your baby won’t move all the time. Just like you, he’ll want to rest and sleep sometimes too. If you’re concentrating on something else you might even miss movements as you become so used to them. Your baby may also be rocked to sleep by your movements so the best way to wake her up is often to sit down and put your feet up for a while.
Over the weeks and months you’ll become used to the movements that are normal for your baby. If you’re worried that these have changed, try encouraging movement by either making lots of noise, drinking something cold or lying down on your side and concentrating on the movements you can feel. Ask advice from your midwife or GP and seek help if you have noticed a big change in movements or a gradual one over a few days, or if your baby doesn’t seem to respond to any stimulus.
Will I get pre-eclampsia?
About one in 10 pregnancies will be affected by pre-eclampsia and your risk is slightly higher as a first-time mum. If you have the condition in the family or are worried at all, ask for advice on the signs and symptoms to look out for and don’t be worried about getting any checked out. You are more likely to develop pre-eclampsia if you are obese, over 40, are pregnant with multiples, have high blood pressure or other conditions connected with pre-eclampsia.
Will I get diabetes?
Gestational diabetes only affects 1-3% of all pregnancies. In most cases, it goes away after birth. You are more likely to develop the condition if you’re obese, you have diabetes in your family or have had it in a previous pregnancy.
If I get stressed will it harm my baby?
Your unborn baby is sensitive to changes in your emotions and some studies have shown that excessive stress can be harmful. But it’s natural for mums-to-be to have worries and babies are pretty tough. The best you can do is try to take it easy. Talk to other mums, friends and family if you’re feeling especially worried and if you’re experiencing significant stress don’t be afraid of asking for help and advice from those closest to you, as well as professionals such as your midwife or doctor.
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