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FAQ's

 

 

Every pregnancy is unique, and your personal circumstances are specific to you.  Listed below are some of the more common questions we receive, and the general responses to them.  The responses to these questions are meant to be general guides only, and are not meant to replace specific detailed medical advice.  Please discuss with me any concerns that you have if you think these responses may not be appropriate to you.

 

 

1. Can I take medications and herbal / vitamin preparations in pregnancy?

 

Most medications can be taken safely in pregnancy, however there are some that have the potential to cause harm.  It is always advisable to check with me, or with your general practitioner before taking any medication.  Internet searching can be confusing, as information can be conflicting.  An alternative source of information is the Royal Women's Hospital Drugs in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Information Line (03) 83453190.

 

Many herbal preparations have not been tested in pregnancy, and often there is very limited evidence as to the risk or safety of taking them in pregnancy.  If it has been recommended that you take herbal preparations during pregnancy, please discuss your pregnancy concerns with your naturopath before taking them.

 

 

2. Can I travel in pregnancy?

 

In general, travel does not pose any risk to a pregnancy.  The exception to this is long haul flying (and car travel), which is associated with an increased risk of blood clots in your legs (DVT).  You are at higher risk for DVT during pregnancy than at other times in your life.   If you are planning a long trip, please discuss this with me prior to travelling.  

 

Most airlines have policies which allow travel up to 36 weeks in pregnancy, however some may request a certificate confirming your due date, or a medical clearance to travel.  Please check any requirements.  with your airline before you travel.  In addition, policies may vary if you have a multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets), or if you have a more complicated pregnancy.  

 

When travelliing, it is important to consider the availability and quality of medical facilities at your destination.  It is also important to ensure that your travel insurance specifically covers pregnancy and pregnancy-related complications.  Taking a copy of your medical record with you when you travel is also a good idea.  

 

In addition, if you are or your partner considering travelling overseas, please be conscious of the potential risk of Zika infection.  Zika is a virus carried by certain species of mosquitoes.  These mosquitoes are found in particular regions around the world.  Zika infection in pregnancy has the potential to cause damage to unborn babies.  A list of countries where Zika infection is possible can be found on the Australian Government Smart Traveller website.  A similar list can also be found at the US CDC (Centres for Disease Control) website.  Countires on the list can change as new information becomes available, and these websites are updated regularly.  Zika infection can also be transmitted during sexual intercourse, so if you or your partner are planning travel to or have recently returned from a Zika-at-risk country, please discuss this with me as soon as possible.

 

 

3. Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?

 

For healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies  who were exercising pre-pregnancy, exercise is both safe and recommended.  In addition to the many benefits of exercise outside of pregnancy, exercise during pregnancy can reduce the risks of certain complications like pre-eclampsia and diabetes of pregnany.  Exercise also has important mental health benefits, and can help pregnant mothers cope with the physical demands of pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for a new baby.

 

It is important to be aware that during pregnancy your heart is already working harder than when you are not pregnant - even when you are doing nothing!  For this reason, during pregnancy you will find that the intensity of exercise that you can cope with will be less.  It is important to listen your body, and not push yourself beyond comfortable limits.  If you feel faint or dizzy, or if you experience cramping or bleeding during exercise you should stop immediately, and consult your doctor before re-commencing your exercise program.  If you have not been exercising prior to pregnancy, if you have any serious medical condition, or if you are carrying a multiple pregnancy, please discuss this with either your GP or myself before commencing your exercise program.