30 Questions During Pregnancy

These emotions are typical at this point. Hormonal changes are responsible largely and your moodiness is here to stay throughout your pregnancy. There isn't much you can do to manage your moods. If you think this is becoming a problem with your partner or family member, have it out with them. Explain it is common and that they understand where you are coming from; it is hormone related problem and there isn't much you can do right now. Assure them and remind yourself it is temporary.

While doctors used to advise parents to keep their pregnancy news to themselves until they have passed the crucial period for miscarriage, most couples today choose to share the news once they get the positive word back. One thing is for certain, once you tell one family member the news, be sure to inform all the other key persons in your family before they hear it from somewhere else. Such news spread like wildfire in most families and it is important to hear such news from none other than you.

Not all types of fish are harmful. The only ones you have to avoid outright are shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish as they contain high levels of mercury that is harmful to the baby's nervous system. Small amounts of mercury are found in other types of fish so it is advisable to limit the weekly intake to 12 oz and to not restrict to a particular kind say, tuna or salmon.

Jerky movements may be due to baby's hiccups; these hiccups can start as early as 2 months after conception. The strength and length of hiccups is surprising to some mothers. Some hiccupping sessions can last 30 minutes or longer. The reason for hiccups is debatable but one theory suggests that hiccupping may help baby develop some of the motor skills a baby will need for nursing and swallowing after birth.

The hormonal changes plus the increased blood flow results in an increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy. This secretion continues to increase right up to delivery time. To keep yourself clean and comfortable despite the added wetness, use cotton underwear or at least cotton crotch underwear, avoid tight-fitting pants and steer clear of perfumes and deodorant soaps. If the discharge is particularly abundant you may want to use sanitary pads.

Note: Tampons should not be used due to the possibility of toxic shock syndrome.

Your pelvic bones provide some protection, the muscles that line the wall of your uterus help to keep your baby safe and the amniotic sac and water acts as cushion. There is reason to worry only if you face severe abdominal pain, contractions, bleeding, or a leakage of the amniotic fluid or if you notice a decrease in fetal movements after a fall. In such a situation you would want to see your doctor to get a thorough assessment.

Your baby is well protected in the event of all but the most serious of car accidents. Generally there is only cause for concern if the steering wheel or airbag hits our belly; if the impact is serious then the there is a risk of placental abruption or if you yourself are badly injured. While mothers and babies survive minor accidents with no incident, it is safer to get your doctor's assurance that everything is OK with you and your baby.

Your employer is unlikely to fire you outright (it is against the law) but you could face subtler forms of discrimination in the workplace. For example, you might be passed over for a promotion because your management may think you are unlikely to return to your job after your leave. That is why you should familiarize yourself with company policies including medical, fringe benefits and maternity leave, and the laws of your country pertaining to working pregnant women.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a very common type of vaginal infection; in fact it is the most prevalent infection among women of reproductive age. Overgrowth of bad bacteria in the vagina is the cause. Symptoms include fishy odor that becomes particularly strong after intercourse of during your period.

There is no hard science behind this claim; while there is some prostaglandin in semen, there isn't enough to move things along in a major way. So if you know someone who went into labor after some sexual activity then it is a mere coincidence. By all means indulge but don't expect it to trigger labor; do it for time pass or fun.

Anything that raises your body temperature over 102 F can be dangerous to the developing baby particularly during the first trimester. It is best to skip the post-exercise trip to the hot tub or sauna room and just settle for a relaxing soak in a warm tub (not hot) instead.

Your doctor may order a first trimester ultrasound to Pinpoint the location of the gestational sac (the developing fetus is contained within this sac), something that can be useful in diagnosing an ectopic pregnancy.

• Look for evidence of an embryo
• Check for a fetal heartbeat
• Find out if you are carrying more than one baby
• Examine the uterus for structural abnormalities or other problems that could pose problems during your pregnancy

Oral sex is considered safe during pregnancy provided your partner avoids blowing air into your vagina - a practice that could allow an air bubble to find its way into your bloodstream and produce fatalistic results. Another point of apprehension is the hormonal changes of pregnancy can change the taste and odor of your vaginal secretions that your partner may find off-putting.

The main risk caused by stomach flu is dehydration. If you become seriously dehydrated as a result of vomiting or diarrhea, you may start to experience premature contractions. If you get hit with stomach flu again and have a tough time keeping things down, try sipping on chicken soup, ginger ale, tea or water. It doesn't matter what kind of healthy beverage you consume as long as you are getting something into your system. Don't stress over the pounds you lose in the process; babies don't suffer unduly just because their mums missed a few meals.