Pensacola News Journal Pregnancy Tab 2009
Publishes April 26, 2009
Baptist Health Care Advertorial 2 of 2
Baptist Health Care Explains What to Expect When You are Expecting
Pregnancy and childbirth can be one of the most exciting times in a family’s life. It can also
come with many uncertainties, questions and anxieties – all a natural part of the expecting
process. The Mother Baby Care Center at Baptist Hospital is here to provide the answers and
support you need for a happy, healthy pregnancy.
Your Body
The most obvious of the changes to a woman’s body during pregnancy is weight gain as the
baby begins to grow and develop. Most women have an average weight gain of 25 to 35 pounds
while pregnant. Minimum weight gain should be no less that 15 pounds.
As your uterus expands to accommodate your growing little one, it puts pressure on your
bladder. The need to frequently urinate is most common in the first stages of pregnancy and in
the last weeks.
Your breasts will also undergo some changes becoming larger, firmer and more tender than
usual. Halfway through your pregnancy your breasts may start to secrete colostrum, or nutrient
rich fluid, in small amounts. This will become slightly heavier toward the end of pregnancy.
Keep gauze pads handy and place on the inside of your bra to protect your clothes.
Your hormone levels are ever changing during pregnancy. This may cause changes in skin
color including looking flushed or the development of small brown markings on the face of fairer
skinned women. Most skin discoloration goes away or fades after the baby is born.
Eating Habits
For some women, nausea, or “morning sickness” is one of the first indicators of pregnancy.
Nausea affects some expectant mothers and is not limited to the morning hours. If nausea
occurs, it typically subsides after the fourth month. Keeping down food is important for the
nourishment of your growing baby, so if you experience nausea try eating smaller meals or
simple foods, avoid spicy or acidic foods and lay down just for a few minutes after eating.
Strange food cravings are another expectant during pregnancy. Medically known as pica,
unusual food cravings continue to be one of the mysteries of pregnancy. Although cravings can
be fun, it is important to keep a balanced diet. Keep in mind that heartburn can be enhanced
during pregnancy, so try to avoid foods that aggravate your normal digestion.
Healthy exercise during pregnancy is crucial for good back health. As your womb grows your
pelvic bone joints relax sometimes resulting in lower back pain. A great way to prevent and
manage pregnancy-related back pain is to develop a daily routine of back exercises. Be sure to
consult a physician before beginning a new exercise routine.
Similar to the cause of back pain, your growing uterus can cause swelling, blocking drainage
pathways, especially in the third trimester. Avoid excessive sodium intake to avoid water
retention.
Your Emotions
Women are naturally emotional creatures. We have innate instincts to nurture. Pregnancy will
bring about many emotional ups and downs, until the moment of childbirth when unconditional
love is born for your new little one.
Pregnancy causes you to think about a whole new set of responsibilities. Is labor going to hurt?
Will my baby be healthy? What about his college fund? These feelings of sudden overwhelming
responsibility can cause anyone’s mood to change, pregnant or not.
According to Michelle Flowers, obstetrics clinical educator, Baptist Hospital, the key to
overcoming anxieties is to gain knowledge and skills through prepared childbirth classes,
reading, asking your health care team questions and voicing concerns.
“Discuss your worries and fears with your health care provider, family and friends,” said
Flowers. “Every question is appropriate to ask. Being prepared decreases anxieties and fears.
Concentrate on living your life one day at a time and nurturing your unborn child.”
“Finally, if you feel you are experiencing depression do not be afraid to ask for and seek help,”
said Flowers.
Help and Support
The Mother Baby Care Center at Baptist Hospital provides a variety of educational opportunities
that help you further explore what to expect during your pregnancy. The Center’s “Great
Expectations Class” is a great first step in preparing for the birth of your baby. This free class
covers steps for a healthy pregnancy, information on hospital registration, maternity unit tours
and more.
After your bundle of joy is born, attend the new parenting class, designed especially for active
dads. “After Baby Comes 4Dads” focuses on helping dad’s become more involved with their
newborns. Fathers are taught about diaper changing, swaddling and preparing for mom and
baby when they come home from the hospital. “After Baby Comes 4Dads” offers an educational
and support opportunity for both parents and their babies, six-months-old and younger, to learn
and grow together through this wonderful life experience.
Additional classes such as labor and childbirth, infant care, breastfeeding and post-pregnancy
are available as well.
For more information or a complete listing of education opportunities, call the Mother Baby Care
Center at 434-4567 or visit our Web site at www.eBaptistHealthCare.org/MotherBaby.