(This article by Dr. Rotanna Adefowokan, obstetrician and gynecologist at Keystone Women’s Care, first appeared in the Public Opinion Newspaper in 2012. Click here to read it at www.publicopiniononline.com.)
After seeing a positive sign on a pregnancy test, moms-to-be have many questions about how to take care of herself and baby for those very important 9 months. Many people know the basics, but sometimes patients ask more specific questions to their doctor—can mom drink caffeine? Does she need to get a flu shot? What should moms do to travel safely during pregnancy? Focusing on baby’s health during that time can give the child the best start in life.
Eating for two
Have a coffee habit? If so, it’s important to monitor your caffeine intake. Studies show pregnant women can safely consume the equivalent of two 8 oz. cups of coffee each day. When it comes to fish, pregnant women should never eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tile fish. However, you can safely consume 12 oz per week of shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, or catfish. Other foods that are unsafe during pregnancy include unpasteurized milk and cheese products or soft cheeses as well as raw or undercooked meat. You should also avoid deli meats. Try to avoid prepared foods and fast food – just cook at home when possible and focus on a balanced diet. Pregnant women are also more prone to gastrointestinal upset so beware of reheating foods that were prepared earlier in the week.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are not just for kids. If possible, have tests done before you plan to get pregnant to see if you have immunity to certain types of illness such as Chickenpox or measles. If you are not immune, it’s important to be vaccinated before you become pregnant to prevent congenital infections. Before pregnancy, it’s also important to be tested for HIV, STD’s, and diabetes, if at risk. After you become pregnant, it’s important to get your yearly flu shot and consider getting the Tdap vaccine. This vaccine protects mom and baby against tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and diphtheria. Both vaccines are safe during pregnancy and can protect mom and baby against illness.
Travel
In our nation, everyone is on the move. So when’s the best time to get around during pregnancy? The second trimester or between the 14th and 28th week of gestation is the best time to travel. It’s important no matter how far along you are to think about taking frequent stops to stretch and move around. If traveling by car, make sure to wear a seat belt and stop at least every 5 hours to move around. If you will be flying on a plane or taking a longer car ride, consider wearing compression stockings to help the blood flow in your legs. If blood does not circulate, pregnant women can be at increased risk for blood clots.
Dr. Rotanna Adefowokan is an obstetrician and gynecologist at Keystone Women’s Care located at 830 Fifth Avenue in Chambersburg.
