There’s tons of information on the Internet about pregnancy. Do this, don’t do that. Avera’s experienced pregnancy providers will walk you through your pregnancy, including guidance on these common questions. Because sometimes it can’t wait for a clinic visit, Catherine Schiltz, DO, Avera OB-GYN, gives her expert opinion on some of the most common pregnancy questions.
Do I have to give up my exercise routine?
Absolutely not. Exercise in pregnancy is recommended. If you have an established exercise regimen when you get pregnant you can continue that. As your pregnancy continues you may need to make some modifications. If you aren’t currently exercising and wish to start, I recommend light exercise that includes a combination of strength training and cardio.
Can I eat fish?
A lot of fish is actually very nutritious during pregnancy – most freshwater fish, crab, oysters, shrimp, lobster and salmon are safe to consume. There are some varieties that are high in mercury that we recommend women avoid such as shark, mackerel, tuna steaks and tilefish. Women should also avoid raw fish.
Is caffeine OK in moderation?
Yes, caffeine is OK in moderation. I typically recommend no more than one to two small caffeinated beverages a day. Try to stick to 200 miligrams of caffeine or less.
What do I do if I get sick?
It’s best to talk with your provider when you get sick for recommendations specific to you. There are a lot of over-the-counter medications that are safe in pregnancy including Tylenol for headaches, Claritin for allergies and Colace for constipation.
When do I have to stop traveling?
It’s typically safe to travel by plane until 35 or 36 weeks if you have an uncomplicated pregnancy. I recommend you check with the individual airline about their specific policy. Traveling by car is safe as well, but on longer trips pregnant women should stop frequently to move around to prevent blood clots. Of course, if you travel close to your due date you run the risk of delivering away from home.
Can I induce labor myself?
You can find a million different ways to induce labor with a quick Google search, but you are unlikely to be successful. Sometimes a myth is just a myth. Labor will start when your body is ready or if your obstetrician recommends a medical induction sooner.
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