Portal Solutions

What is morning sickness and how long does it last for?

Morning sickness is the nausea and vomiting some women experience early in pregnancy. It is thought to be caused by the sudden increase in hormones during pregnancy. Other changes such as neurological, metabolic, or psychosomatic factors may also play a part. Although morning sickness is more common in the morning, it may last all day. Also, morning sickness is very common in early pregnancy, but tends to diminish later in pregnancy and usually ends by the second trimester (the fourth month).

Tips to help relieve morning sickness:

• Eat saltine crackers and other bland foods with the onset of nausea
• Avoid rich, fatty foods
• Eat more carbohydrates (plain baked potato, white rich, dry toast)
• Eat small meals throughout the day so you are never too full or too hungry
• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day
• Avoid strong scents

Tips to help relieve pregnancy-induced back pain:

• Wear low-heeled shoes with good arch support
• Use a heating pad or ice pack to soothe the area
• Do exercises to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles
• Sleep on your side with a pillow tucked between your legs
• Utilize maternity belts that offer abdominal support. These are available through catalogs in our office as well as on the internet.

Can I have a perm or get my hair colored ?

You certainly can have a perm or get your hair colored, but keep in mind that these procedures do not tend to take as well during pregnancy.

Can I go in a hot tub?

We do not advise that you sit in a hot tub during pregnancy.

Can I travel?

Traveling short distances by automobile athrough the 36th week is okay as long as you are taking in enough fluids and making frequent stops. Traveling by airplane through the 34th week is okay as long as you are taking in enough fluids, standing up periodically to move around, and are having no complications.

Can I go to the dentist?

You can go to the dentist, but you must inform them of your pregnancy. Only local anesthesia may be used. NO NITROUS GAS. X-rays can be done if necessary with the correct shielding, but routine X-rays need to be avoided. If your dentist has any questions, please have them contact our office before performing any procedures.

Can I receive vaccinations during pregnancy?

The following vaccinations contain the live virus and SHOULD BE AVOIDED during pregnancy:

• Lyme disease
• Rubella
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Measles
• Mumps
• Smallpox

The Influenza Vaccination may be given after the 1st trimester of pregnancy, but please discuss this with your physician .

Are pets safe to be around during pregnancy?

We strongly recommend that you take extra hand-washing precautions when handling pets. We also advise against changing cat litter during your pregnancy due to the small risk of exposure to Toxoplasmosis.

Can I go tanning?

During pregnancy, the skin is more susceptible to being burnt and blistered, so we advise that you use sun block when out in the sun. Do not use tanning beds.

Can I exercise?

You may exercise during your pregnancy, but we advise you to avoid doing any new exercises that you don't normally do.