Common Questions During Pregnancy

For most obstetricians there probably isn’t a "typical" day in the office but there are many questions that come up time and time again. "Is it O’K to……….while I am pregnant?" is undoubtedly one of the most common. Although individual recommendations may vary and advice from a newspaper column should never override your physician’s recommendations I have compiled answers to some of the common questions. Most of the answers are derived from recommendations of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Is it O’K to dye my hair during pregnancy?

Yes, It is felt that hair dyes are safe, as very little dye will be absorbed through the skin.

Is it O’K to have sex during pregnancy?

Assuming a pregnancy is uncomplicated there is no reason to avoid having sexual intercourse during pregnancy. Women whose pregnancies are complicated by placenta previa, preterm labor or who have ruptured membranes are generally advised to avoid sex during pregnancy.

Is it O’K to drink coffee during pregnancy?

In moderation. Large amounts of caffeine during pregnancy (5 or more cups of coffee a day or the equivalent) have been associated with an increased rate of miscarriage. There is no evidence that one or two cups of coffee a day have any adverse effect on pregnancy.

Will one glass of wine hurt my baby?

Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with mental retardation (called fetal alcohol syndrome). It is unlikely that a single glass of wine has any effect on the fetus but it is unknown what a safe level of alcohol consumption is. Thus it is not recommended that any alcohol be consumed during pregnancy.

Do you do routine episiotomies?

In the past it was thought that performing episiotomies would prevent women from having severe lacerations during delivery and protect against developing pelvic prolapse. The incidence of episiotomies has significantly decreased over the last 20 years, one study showing a decrease from 70% of all births to 19% of all births over the last 20 years. Studies have shown that there is actually an increase in severe lacerations with a policy of routine episiotomies, especially lacerations involving the rectum So although an episiotomy may be used to expedite delivery on occasion it is falling out of favor as a routine procedure.

Should I have a birth plan?

It is important to discuss your wishes regarding labor management, pain management during labor and newborn care with the physicians and nurses who will be caring for you. Most maternity units will allow flexibility in labor and pain management as long as the safety of the mother and baby are not compromised. Childbirth classes given by the hospital you plan to deliver at will help familiarize you with the hospital and develop realistic expectations for childbirth. A written plan may help you with your choices but it should be flexible as the course of labor is unpredictable. Make sure you discuss any specific wishes with your health care providers.

Are their foods I shouldn’t eat?

A healthy and varied diet is important during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should take care to avoid exposure to Listeria; a bacterium that can cause miscarriage and fetal deaths. To avoid any risk of Listeriosis pregnant women should avoid unpasteurized dairy products, raw or undercooked meats, shellfish and eggs. All fresh fruits and vegetables should be washed before eating them. There is concern over the levels of mercury in fish so pregnant women are advised to limit their fish intake to 12 ounces a week.

Should I get a flu shot?

Yes, it is advised that all women who will be in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy during flu season receive the influenza vaccine.