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Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have midwifery and women's health issues.  If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you. Also, you may access videos of out midwives answering questions and addressing topics here on Meridian Momtourage or Meridian Health's Youtube channel.

Click on a question below to see the answer.


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A: Some early signs and symptoms related to pregnancy inlucde nausea, vomiting, fatigue, breast tenderness, and mild abdominal cramping.  Some relief measure for these symptoms are rest, small, frequent bland meals, ginger ale, ginger tea, and caffeine free coca cola. 
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Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters:

- The first trimester is 1-14 weeks

- The second trimester is 15-18 weeks

- The third trimester is 29-40 weeks
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An ideal pregnancy diet contains 60 grams of protein ingested every day as protein contains the building blocks for your developing baby. You should eat a well balanced diet with a 40/40/30 ratio of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates at every meal.  Fast foods and excessive sweets should be avoided.  If you are overweight, Weight Watchers has an excellent program for expectant mothers to follow.  A pregnant woman should drink 8-10 glasses a day of filtered water, juice, or milk for adequate hydration. A prenatal vitamin with DHA is an ideal supplement during pregnancy.  The DHA has been shown to help supply the fatty acids necessary for brain development in the fetus.  The folic acid in most prenatals can help prevent neural tube defects in the fetus.

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Food to avoid during your pregnancy include: 

- Raw fish

- Undercooked meat

- Unpasteurized dairy products

- Alcohol
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Yes, any exercise you are already used to doing you may continue.  You should hydrate well while exercising and keep your heart rate below 140.  Any type of regular exercise during pregnancy is preferred to being too sedentary. Get out and walk 45 minutes 4-5 times per week and breathe in that fresh air, it’s great for you and your baby!
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Yes, you can have sex while you’re pregnant unless you are instructed otherwise by your midwife.
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Yes, you may color your hair after your first trimester.  You may do “foil color” at any time during the pregnancy.
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Yes, you can travel during your pregnancy usually until 34 weeks unless there is a problem in the pregnancy. Certain airlines have specific rules so contact your airline prior to travel.
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Ultrasound has been deemed safe during pregnancy although it is our practice to limit all procedures such as ultrasound to a minimum during your pregnancy unless a complication develops that may need to be addressed with further testing.  This is determined on an individual basis.