Fredericksburg Parent

April 2019

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www.FredericksburgParent.NET 29 What are Braxton-Hicks? A. Stretching exercises to do during pregnancy B. Contractions signaling labor has started C. Uncomfortable, erratic contractions beginning around week 20 Answer C: Although Braxton-Hicks contractions are a nuisance, they do not signal impending labor. They feel like menstrual cramps and tend to last 10 to 20 seconds every 10 to 15 minutes. Taking a walk, relaxing in a warm bath or resting can help. What is one of the last organs to fully develop in a developing baby? A. The lungs B. The heart C. The reproductive organs Answer A: Every week matters in pregnancy. Because the lungs are one of the last organs to fully develop, doctors stress the importance of avoiding an early induc- tion unless there is a health issue with mom or baby. A baby delivered early is at greater risk for respiratory dis- tress and may need breathing intervention ranging from supplemental oxygen to intense respiratory support in the NICU. Which of these beverages is OK to consume in moderation during pregnancy? A. Coffee B. Beer C. Raw milk D. None of the above Answer A: According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), coffee or tea is safe as long as you stick to beverages with less than 200 milligrams of caf- feine per day—that's about a 12 ounce latte, coffee or tea. Consuming too much caffeine can speed up a baby's heart rate causing heart arrhythmia and withdrawal symptoms after birth, similar to babies born addicted to drugs. No amount of alcohol is considered safe dur- ing pregnancy and puts your baby at risk for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Unpasteurized dairy products and juices can carry the bacterium Listeria and can be fatal to baby. What types of exercises are safe during pregnancy? A. Swimming B. Walking C. Strength training D. Yoga E. All of the above Answer E: Regular exercise will help keep you and your baby healthy. While you shouldn't begin a new, strenu- ous fitness regime while pregnant, participating in fitness classes that you did regularly before pregnancy is usually OK. Because your sense of balance may be off, take a break from activities that can put you at risk for falling. Unsure? Check with your doctor. Which remedy won't help with morning sickness? A. Eating three square meals a day B. Taking your prenatal vitamins with food before bed C. Acupuncture Answer A: Although referred to as "morning" sickness, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can happen any time during the day. Going too long without eating can exacerbate nausea. Grazing on crackers, nuts, fruits and veggies throughout the day, and eating five to six small meals rather than three large meals can help you avoid an empty stomach and stabilize your blood sugar. How many additional calories do you need in your daily diet while you are pregnant? A. 1,200 B. 600 C. 300 Answer C: Even though you may have heard that you should be eating for two, most women only need to consume an additional 300 calories a day while pregnant. Opt for nutrient-rich foods as opposed to foods high in sugars and fats. continued on pg 31 What's the best solution for back and hip pain during pregnancy?

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