In addition to these frequently asked questions, we have compiled a list of concerns about possible complications as well as a list of helpful book titles.

• What are some prenatal tests, exams and procedures that I will experience?
• What other tests might my healthcare provider order?
• How can I manage my pregnancy symptoms?
• Is there a cure for morning sickness?
• What is the average weight gain during pregnancy?

What are some prenatal tests, exams and procedures that I will experience?

Various tests, exams and procedures are part of your checkups during your pregnancy. Some tests are routine and are done for all pregnant women. Other tests are optional or may be ordered by your healthcare provider in certain situations, particularly if complications arise. At each visit, your healthcare provider will discuss any problems you are having, such as headaches, swelling of your hands or feet, or bleeding. Keep all your appointments. This allows early detection of any problems and your healthcare provider can adjust the plan for your care as needed.

The routine tests and procedures done during prenatal visits include:

• pelvic exam to determine the size of your pelvis
• pap smear of the cervix (usually done early in the pregnancy)
• calculation of the gestational age of the baby (how long you have been pregnant)
• measurement of your weight and blood pressure
• urine tests to check for protein, sugar or bacteria
• measurement of the height of the fundus (top of your uterus)
• determination of the size and position of the baby
• blood tests to check for anemia, diabetes, blood type, Rh factor, rubella antibodies, syphilis and hepatitis
• cultures of cells from your cervix to test for infection
• possibly an HIV test
• exam of your lower legs and ankles for swelling

What other tests may be ordered by my healthcare provider?

The following tests are optional and performed only if medically necessary:

• chorionic villus sampling from the placenta for information about your baby's chromosomes and detection of some birth defects
• amniocentesis for chromosome information and detection of some birth defects
• serum alpha-fetoprotein measurement to screen for certain birth defects
• triple-screen test to provide more information about risk of birth defects and includes tests for alpha-fetoprotein, conjugated estradiol, and human chorionic gonadotrophin
• ultrasound scans as needed to look at the baby and your uterus, amniotic sac, placenta, ovaries, organs, and overall development
• non-stress tests to check the baby’s movement

If you have high-risk factors for complications, you may be given additional tests and procedures:

• amniocentesis to determine fetal lung development (in case of early delivery)
• blood tests to assess clotting and liver function
• biophysical profile to check fetal health with an ultrasound
• Rh antibody screening, repeated at 28 to 30 weeks if you are Rh negative
• a shot of Rhogam if you are Rh negative
• stress tests to check your baby’s health during uterine contractions

How can I manage my pregnancy symptoms?

During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through major changes to meet the demands of her growing baby. These changes are initiated by the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone and often are accompanied by numerous discomforts. These normal side effects vary among women and pregnancies and are not the same as complications. Here are some common pregnancy discomforts:

• breast changes
• food cravings
• fatigue
• emotional turbulence
• constipation
• frequent urination
• hemorrhoids
• hair loss
• nausea and vomiting
• skin changes
• bleeding gums
• varicose veins
• back pain
• indigestion
• heartburn
• insomnia

Is there a cure for morning sickness?

Morning sickness (nausea and sometimes vomiting) is a common complaint in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. The term “morning sickness” can be misleading because morning sickness can occur at any time of the day. The causes of morning sickness are not totally understood, but pregnancy hormones are thought to play a role. More than 30 different hormones are required to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Of these, progesterone, human chorionic gonadotropin and estrogen are suspected to precipitate morning sickness. Morning sickness is rarely severe enough to cause problems to the mother or developing fetus. It usually disappears as the pregnancy progresses.

Tips for relieving morning sickness:

• Get lots of rest. Morning sickness may be worse when you're tired.
• If nausea is worse when you first wake up, try eating a small snack (like crackers) before you get out of bed. Allow some time for the snack to be digested, then get out of bed slowly.
• Eat several small meals every day instead of three large meals. Don't let your stomach get completely empty. An empty stomach may increase nausea.
• Eat several small meals every day instead of three large meals. Don't let your stomach get completely empty. An empty stomach may increase nausea.
• Increasing your intake of carbohydrates and decreasing the amount of fat in your diet may reduce your nausea.
• Avoid unpleasant smells or foods. Many women find that specific smells trigger their morning sickness. Citrus juice, milk, coffee and caffeinated tea may make nausea worse.
• Pressure to the inside of the wrist (acupressure) has been suggested as a treatment for morning sickness. Research has not shown that this decreases morning sickness. However, the use of an acupressure wrist band (such as Sea-Band) will not harm you or your baby.

What to eat when you can’t eat your regular diet:

• lemons (to lick or smell)
• lemonade
• potato chips
• crackers
• fresh watermelon
• dill pickles
• Granny Smith apples
• tangy gingerale
• frozen grapes
• mashed or baked potatoes

What is the average weight gain during pregnancy?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the average weight during pregnancy can be broken down as follows:

The average weight gain during each trimester is as follows:

Information

For more information about Maternal/Child Services at Shands AGH, please call 352.338.2121, ext. 3400.

News

ENDOVASCULAR REPAIR OF AORTIC ANEURYSMS: UF SURGEONS REACH PATIENT-CARE MILESTONE

SHANDS AT UF PERFORMS BEST IN STATE IN U.S.NEWS & WORLD REPORT RANKINGS

SHANDS ARTS IN MEDICINE PROGRAM FEATURED IN DOCUMENTARY AIRING ON PBS THIS SUMMER