Questions To Ask Your Healthcare Provider

Maybe you have interviewed a dozen midwives before you found the right one, or maybe your maternity care will continue with the same doctor you have seen and loved for years. Regardless of your circumstances, the first prenatal appointment is a big one. Not only will your best gynecologist In lahore check that you and your baby are both on the right track, but you can also ask all those burning questions you have been wondering about since the positive pregnancy test, along with a few you’ve probably not even thought about . Here are some things you could call sensible during your first visit.

Do I Have To Make Changes To My Diet?

Although you do not need your calorie intake until your second trimester, it is important to ensure that you eat healthily for your budding bean. If you discuss your regular diet with your supplier and receive input, you can evaluate what you are doing well and what you may miss. It is especially important to discuss your eating habits if you have dietary restrictions or have trouble eating food due to nausea.

 How Much Weight Do I Have To Gain?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends women of normal weight gain between 25 and 35 pounds during the course of pregnancy. However, your provider can help you refine that number. If you are underweight or overweight, expect multiples or fall under the umbrella of a handful of other factors, you may need to earn less or more than average.

Can I Continue Training?

The answer to this question is most likely “yes”, with a few exceptions. If you participate in activities with a high impact, think of horse riding or keep in touch with sports, then you must abstain during your 40-week stint, and a risky pregnancy can also lead to certain movement restrictions. Staying active while expecting has countless benefits, so most future mothers are encouraged to continue their training routines. If you used to be a couch potato but suddenly felt compelled to get moving, ask your provider about the best way to safely implement a new routine.

When Should I Go To Sleep By My Side?

“The reason why patients are encouraged to sleep on their side is to shift the weight of the pregnant womb away from the large blood vessels that return the blood to the heart. Normally your womb will not become heavy enough to make this necessary until around or after the 20-week mark. But as with everything, it is important to get the opinion of your provider about when you want to make the switch – and you will get some tips for the transition if lying sideways is not your preferred position.

Are The Beauty Products That I Use Safe?

Even all-natural products can contain ingredients that are prohibited during pregnancy, so the easiest way to get all your beauty products OK is by taking them to the appointment and having your supplier read the labels. She can make alternative recommendations for products that are now on the no-no list.

Which Prenatal Vitamin Do You Recommend?

Your healthcare provider can write a prescription for a prenatal vitamin, or she can propose an over-the-counter (OTC) variety. Although all prenatal provide a dose of essential vitamins and nutrients, your individual needs may elicit a specific recommendation from your obstetrician or OB. If you have already started using prenatal but are having problems keeping them low, your doctor may recommend useful solutions such as a smaller pill, a gummy or liquid version, or even the time you take it.

Can I Continue To Take My Prescribed Medication?

Again, take the bottles with you, because it is easiest for your provider to give a definitive “yes” or “no” if they can see exactly what you are working with. Some medicines are approved, but many others are not. However, your provider must be able to help you come up with a number of viable alternatives to meet your needs.

Are Prescription Drugs Safe? In Which Dosages?

It seems unfair that pregnancy a time with ailments abound, is also a time when many of your remedies are not on the table. When non-medicated methods (saline drops and a humidifier for a stuffy nose, rest and ice for headaches) don’t work, rest assured that you don’t have to suffer. There are approved OTC options there that can provide relief and your midwife or OB can inform you about what they are.

Are There Any Symptoms That I Should Look Out For?

By handling this topic in advance, you not only know when to worry, but also when you don’t have to worry (which can make you free to worry about more exciting things like baby names!). Certain nuisances, such as light cramps and spotting, can cause you to panic, but that is generally not a problem. However, not all pregnancies are made equal, so you need to know if there are specific details for your situation that you need to be aware of.

Does My Medical History Show Red Flags For Complications?

You need to discuss medical concerns, as well as mental health factors. For example, if you have indicators that increase your chances of postpartum depression or anxiety, it is wise to let this know in advance so that your provider can better monitor your well-being after delivery.

Which Screenings and Vaccinations Do You Recommend?

Many doctors advise you to get flu (influenza) and Tdap (tetanus; diphtheria; pertussis, aka whooping cough) vaccine during your pregnancy. Vaccines are always a hot topic, so it’s good to have a conversation before the point is out as to why they are recommended and how they can be useful for you and your baby.

What is The Best Way to Reach You If I Have Questions After Office Hours?

Caregivers understand that your questions do not always occur between 9 and 5, so if you have real care, do not hesitate to contact us. Once you’ve found the right way to get in touch, save the number in your phone (there is a chance that it is the same number that you use during office hours), so it’s ready to use when you need it.

Spend a little time in the days prior to your first appointment and consider whether there are any other questions. “Don’t forget to write down specific questions that are of concern to you and address them. This will not only take away your personal concerns, but will also start creating a meaningful and reliable bond with your healthcare provider.