Do I need to “pump and dump” if I have a drink?
No! Alcohol does pass easily into breastmilk, but it’s also absorbed from milk much like it is from the bloodstream. Basically, if you are sober enough to drive, you’re likely…
Can I eat fish?
Yes! Because of high levels of mercury in some big fish, pregnant women should avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish. Smaller fish are usually safe, such as light tuna,…
I have gestational diabetes. Now what?
If you failed your 1-hour glucose screen AND your 3-hour glucose tolerance test, then you have gestational diabetes. Hopefully, you’ll get a chance to talk to a dietitian. In the…
Do I need to take anything besides my prenatal vitamin?
In most cases, the answer is no. There is a whole industry that markets supplements and other products to pregnant women. Even among prenatal vitamins, for most women the only…
How much weight should I gain?
Normal weight women (BMI of 18.5-24.9) should gain about 25-35 pounds during their pregnancies. Underweight women (BMI < 18.5) may need to gain more and overweight women less. For obese…
Can I drink caffeine?
Yes, you can. As with most things in life, moderation is the key. Scientific studies have not demonstrated any problems with caffeine consumption during pregnancy until a woman consumes over…
What can’t I eat?
Good question. The truth is, you can eat just about anything you want. Click here for a full explanation. The short answer is to not eat: Big fish with high…
I’m throwing up! Help!
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is no one’s idea of a good time. Unfortunately, it affects about two-thirds of pregnant women. The good news is, nausea and vomiting are not…