Embarrassing Pregnancy Questions
While they expect a blossoming belly and glowing skin, few women anticipate some of the less pleasant aspects of pregnancy. It's easy to start to wonder how normal a host of issues are, and since many of them involve deeply personal bodily functions or changes, it's common for women to steer clear of discussing them with their doctors. Here are some common questions women have about pregnancy, with some reassurance that these are perfectly normal to wonder about, as well as reasons discussing many of them with your doctor is a good idea.
Significance
Most of the symptoms you will experience during pregnancy are common and benign, but some can indicate serious health issues. It's important not to avoid talking about these things with your doctor due to embarrassment. Remember, your doctor is a health professional and there is absolutely nothing you can say that will upset them or make them think differently of you.
Physical Changes
Is it typical for my vaginal area to be swollen?
Increased blood flow during pregnancy as well as the increasing weight of the uterus can lead to swelling and varicose veins in this region. Certain sexually transmitted diseases can also cause swelling so it's important to discuss this with your doctor.
Should I have this much discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a common side effect of pregnancy, primarily due to fluctuating hormonal levels. Make sure you mention this to your doctor to rule out potential infections which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
Is it normal to leak urine when I sneeze, cough or laugh?
While not pleasant, many women experience this symptom as their enlarged uterus presses into their bladder. Make sure you do your Kegel exercises---pelvic contractions to prevent stress incontinence---regularly to ensure your pelvic floor stays strong.
Digestive Issues
What can I do about constipation?
This is a woe suffered by as many as a quarter of all pregnant women according to a 2007 study in the journal Obstetrics and Pregnancy, your hormones and sometimes the iron in your prenatal vitamins exacerbate this condition. Natural remedies such as prune juice or increased fiber, as well as some stool softeners, can be safely used during pregnancy.
Baby's Safety
I drank quite a bit before I took the test and realized I was pregnant. Will this affect the health of my baby?
According to the March of Dimes, it is doubtful that a small amount of alcohol consumed in early pregnancy is likely to do much damage. Try not to worry about it, and refrain from drinking throughout the remainder of your pregnancy.
Emotions
I am happy to be pregnant, but I'm also really worried about whether I've made the right decision to have a baby at this point in time. Is it normal to be this doubtful and anxious?
Women often undergo an array of emotions throughout their pregnancy, with many women experiencing fear and anxiety throughout the first trimester. As your pregnancy continues, you will become more accustomed to the fact of the pregnancy. Your emotions will often become more stable as your hormones settle down although you might still be prone to crying jags.
Expert Insight
In a 2009 "Pregnancy Today" article on embarrassing pregnancy questions, Dr. Randy Fink, an Ob/Gyn in Miami, Florida, had this advice to offer women who are leery of discussing personal issues with their doctors. "You already share the most intimate aspects of your body," says Dr. Fink. "Sharing what's on your mind should be the easy part!"
