Fertility Treatment: I'm Pregnant!

How long is a normal pregnancy?

Rather than 9 months, a pregnancy is in fact 40 weeks in length, counting from the first day of your last menstrual period. However, delivery may normally occur any time after 37 weeks. Pregnancy is sometimes divided into three phases, called trimesters. The first trimester lasts 12 weeks, the second from 13 to 27 weeks and the third from 28 to 40 weeks.

Should I tell my family and friends?

Once the pregnancy has been confirmed by a blood test, there is still a risk the pregnancy may not continue. As soon as you have had an ultrasound scan that demonstrates an intrauterine pregnancy with a normal heart beat, the chance of a continuing pregnancy is greater than 9 out of 10. This ultrasound will normally be performed in the first 6-7 weeks.

Do I need any other tests?

The routine tests recommended for pregnancy will have been performed during your fertility treatment. However, further testing can be offered early in the pregnancy: nuchal translucency screening (by ultrasound) can be combined with biochemical testing (a blood test) to screen for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down's syndrome. Further, invasive testing may be appropriate and can be discussed with your specialist.

Who will care for me during my pregnancy?

This is an important decision, based on your personal preference and financial resources. Pregnancy (antenatal) care is offered in conjunction with a maternity hospital and this care may be either in the public or private health system. Privately, obstetricians are in high demand, so you must decide and 'book in' early. You can continue to see your local doctor throughout your pregnancy. To increase your chances of having a healthy baby, you will be asked to visit the antenatal clinic on a regular, but flexible basis.

What should I be eating during my pregnancy?

A healthy, balanced diet is essential for a normal pregnancy. Choose a wide variety of foods from the four food groups – bread, other cereals and potatoes; fruit and vegetables; milk and dairy foods; and meat, fish and alternatives (such as beans or lentils).

It is important to understand that you are not 'eating for two'. A normal pregnancy increases your food needs by about 200 calories a day in the final three months. Make up these extra calories with healthy snacks like fruit or a sandwich.

It is likely that you will have to increase the amount of calcium in your diet during pregnancy. You can do this by drinking plenty of low-fat milk, and eating yoghurt and cheese, as well as dark green vegetables.

What should I avoid eating during my pregnancy?

Certain foods should be avoided while you are pregnant because they carry the risk of being contaminated with bacteria. These foods include unwashed or prepared salads, soft cheeses, unpasteurised milk, raw or softly boiled eggs, inadequately cooked meats, and pâtés.

Can I drink alcohol during my pregnancy?

There are no safe limits of alcohol consumption established for pregnancy, so alcohol should be avoided.

What about smoking?

When you smoke or when you are exposed to others' smoke (passive smoking), carbon monoxide and nicotine are passed from your blood into to your baby's blood, which limits the amount of oxygen and nourishment that your baby receives and needs. Smoking during pregnancy has been linked to many serious problems – including miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight and sudden infant death syndrome, to name a few. So if you smoke, stop immediately, and encourage your partner to do the same.

What can I do about morning sickness?

Morning sickness is the nausea and vomiting you may have during pregnancy. Although called 'morning' sickness, it can happen throughout the day. Usually, it begins in early pregnancy and goes away by the fourth month. To relieve morning sickness, try to eat several, smaller meals and healthy snacks throughout the day. Beside your bed have a small snack that you can nibble before you get up in the morning. Avoid rich, fatty foods or cooking smells that bother you, and try to eat more carbohydrates like dry toast.

Can I exercise during pregnancy?

Physical activity is good for your health and your sense of well being. If you have a normal pregnancy, it is likely that you can exercise, but always check with your doctor first. Vigorous exercise that might cause injury should be avoided, so opt for gentle exercise. The best kind of exercise during pregnancy allows you to keep the weight off your body – swimming or using a stationary bike are good choices, although walking is a good option too. Whatever you choose, make sure your body temperature does not become too high and drink plenty of fluids.

What about prescription or over-the-counter medication?

Some prescription medications can interfere with your baby's development, while others may be vital to control a chronic condition, such as asthma or diabetes You should check any prescription medications with your specialist and your pharmacist. You should continue folic acid supplementation to 12 weeks of pregnancy.. Always seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medicine or herbal remedies, no matter how harmless they may seem.

Can I have sex during pregnancy? Will I want to?

If your pregnancy is progressing normally, it is safe for you and your partner to have sex.

Your desire for sex will probably change during your pregnancy. In early pregnancy, your interest in sex will probably drop as your hormones change, you gain weight, feel tired or experience morning sickness. During the second trimester, your interest will probably pick up again. Then, during the final trimester, that interest may drop again as your size, back pain or fatigue may make having sex difficult. It may help to try different positions with your partner to increase your comfort.

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