Due Date: Will be determined by your last menstrual period, ovulation information, and early ultrasound. Early ultrasound is the most accurate.
Labs: First Visit: Complete blood count, blood type and antibody screen, Rubella and Hepatitis immune status, Pap smear and HIV testing.
12-14 Weeks: Ultrasound for nuchal translucency and additional blood work in order to screen for chromosomal abnormalities.
15-18 Weeks: Serum markers to screen for spinal problems and further screen for chromosomal abnormalities.
24-28 Weeks: Repeat blood count and sugar test (screen for gestational diabetes).
35-37 Weeks: Vaginal culture for streptococcus.
Amnio: If done, amniocentesis, under ultrasound guidance is performed as close to 16 weeks gestation as possible. (Optional).
Weight Gain: In most cases, 3-5 pounds in the first 12 weeks, one pound per week after (20-30 pounds all together).
Diet: In order to obtain the target weight gain (see above), an average increase of 300 calories is required. this accounts to about two slices of bread, a cup of yogurt or 3-4 slices of cheese daily. avoid swordfish, shark and mackerel, since they may contain excessive amounts of mercury. avoid unpasteurized cheese, tuna, sushi and raw items.
NutraSweet: Safe in moderation (1-2 servings per day)
Caffeine: One cup of caffeinated coffee or tea per day is allowed.
Vitamins: In addition to prenatal vitamins, extra calcium (e.f. Tums) is recommended 500 mg.x2
Intercourse: safe throughout pregnancy unless instructed otherwise.
Exercise: Continue with the same routine you did prior to the pregnancy (unless instructed otherwise). Your pulse should be less than 140. No heavy weight lifting.
Computers: safe throughout pregnancy
Constipation: Can be safely relieved by prune juice, Colace, Metamucil, MOM Pericolate, etc.
Hair Treatments: After the first trimester, no limits.
Hot Tubs, Jacuzzis, Saunas: Not recommended. (May be dangerous to the fetus).
Cats: If you have one, it is safest to avoid contact with the litter during the pregnancy.
Painting: All water based and most oil based paints are safe to use, make sure the area is well ventilated.
Travel: Long car rides should be avoided, but if you must go, take frequent (every 1-2 hours) stops to
stretch your legs. Flying is safe until the ninth month, when airlines won’t let you on!
For Colds/Flu: Tylenol is safe (two extra strength-100mg) every four hours up to four times daily: Robitussin is also safe for coughing, as well as Sudafed (30mg twice daily) non drowsy.
Dental Work: Safe throughout pregnancy