Top 10 Pregnancy Worries

1. I don't think I'm ready to be a mum (or dad)!

There's no need to worry. I can assure you - you are not ready. You also should not worry about whether you will make mistakes. You will. I. myself, have six kids and a Ph.D. in child psychology, and with my youngest child I still made many mistakes. So, apparently, neither practice nor education, make a perfect parent. Children will present you with inconveniences you never dreamed of, a change in lifestyle that is monumental. So why do people keep having them? Because they also present you with moments of joy you never even knew were possible and goals and adventures you never anticipated. The best way to face parenthood is with a good sense of humour and a sense of adventure.

2. What is wrong, why am I bleeding?

Bleeding is very common and more than 50% of women will experience some bleeding during their pregnancy. During early pregnancy, bleeding maybe a sign of threatened miscarriage, or just due to implantation of the embryo. However, bleeding at any stage of pregnancy is a serious warning sign and you should contact your obstetrician.

3. What if I get Swine Flu while pregnant?

Pregnant women are more susceptible to infection during pregnancy due to their lowered immunity. The risk of severe complications is also increased. If you feel unwell, you should consult a doctor and be tested for swine flu and if positive, should consider having anti?viral treatment. This is best done under isolation and observation in hospital. The risk of passing the disease to the unborn child has been reported, but it is believed not to be common.

4. Is it normal to feel this unwell?

During pregnancy (especially between 6-14 weeks) it is very common to feel sick. This is due to the hormonal changes that are occurring in the body, and typically settles towards the end of the first trimester for most, but a few may continue to feel sick throughout the pregnancy. Tips to reduce nausea include eating multiple small meals - something bland, like toast or biscuits every two-to-three hours. Eating something in the morning, prior to getting out of bed or before brushing your teeth may also help.

Natural remedies include taking ginger tablets or inhaling a few drops of peppermint oil on a tissue paper. Also wear a sea band bracelet to reduce nausea if travelling makes you feel worse.

5. I have such bad headaches, is it safe to take some medication?

One of the most common discomforts during pregnancy is headaches. They tend to occur in the first trimester and are due to hormonal changes and an increase in blood volume in the body. Try a few natural remedies such as massaging the temples with lavender oil or the big toes, which correspond to the head, with vegetable oil for at least 10 minutes.

Paracetamol is safe to use in pregnancy (avoid aspirin, neurofen, ponstan, etc.). If you have a migraines go lie in a darkened room and sleep until it passes.

6. I think I'm putting on too much weight.

Throughout the entire pregnancy we expect the mother to put on between 251bs-351bs. If you are putting a lot of weight, try to ensure you take a balanced diet, with less intake of carbohydrates and sugar, and more vegetables. If you are really worried, consult a dietician who can help plan and monitor your pregnancy diet.

7. I need to travel for work. Is it safe to fly while pregnant?

Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly until she is 34-36 weeks, and essentially it is safe to do so provided that there are no signs of premature labour. You should consult your obstetrician prior to flying and they will provide a letter saying you are fit to travel, which the airline will sometimes require. To reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis take frequent walks/exercise and keep up fluids to stay hydrated during the Might. The use of pressure stockings (up to the thighs) and low dose aspirin are also frequently advised for long haul flights.

8. Urinating this much can't be normal.

During pregnancy, many women urinate more frequently and this is mainly due to the growing uterus pressing on the bladder in front, which decreases its capacity (normal 300-600ml). Gestational diabetes and cystitis can also cause frequency, and should be checked out by your obstetrician. Don't curb fluid intake to reduce frequency as staying hydrated is important, especially during pregnancy.

9. Will my vagina recover from giving birth?

During pregnancy, because the increase in progesterone softens tissues and ligaments to allow the body to stretch more easily, the pelvic Moor softens too, and the weight from your growing baby may weaken it. Strengthening the pelvic Moor will help you avoid "leaking"... and will also help the vagina to return to normal soon after pregnancy.

10.What if I can't breastfeed?

Drop the worry right there as it is extremely rare for women not to be able to breastfeed. Quite a few find it challenging though, sometimes because they start off on the wrong foot and don't always have access to support. Feeding immediately after birth and then on demand in the first days, correct latch on the breast, and good positioning are usually a good recipe for successful breastfeeding, in addition to the new mother getting plenty of rest, regular meals and drinking well.

For more information about pregnancy: Online Pregnancy Advice