The 11 Most Frequently Asked Questions About a First Pregnancy

It's common for questions to arise during a first pregnancy. Turn to reliable sources, such as your obstetrician, gynecologist, or physician.

Reviewed and approved by the teacher Samanta Ruiz.

Written by Samanta Ruiz

Last update: 20 June, 2023

Being a new mother is synonymous with doubts and uncertainty. For this reason, we’ve selected the most frequently asked questions about your first pregnancy and their answers. Having this knowledge in advance will give you more peace of mind and security in this new stage you’re beginning.

Take note! And congratulations!

Questions and answers for new moms about their first pregnancy

From certain aspects of daily life to the type of medical checkups you need, the topics are varied and numerous. Below, we’ll share with you the most frequently asked and relevant questions about a first pregnancy.

1. What medical tests will I have during pregnancy?

The basic medical check-ups include visits with your doctor and 3 ultrasound scans at 12, 20, and 34 weeks. In addition, you should have a blood test and a urine test during each trimester.

These are the tests that will help you have a pregnancy that’s free of complications. But according to your family history, the evolution of your pregnancy, and the moment of gestation, other studies can be added.

2. Can I do physical activity or sports?

During pregnancy, it’s healthy to do physical activity and sports, as long as it’s not high-performance or high-impact. For example, it’s best to avoid certain disciplines such as skiing, Crossfit, or running for a competition.

It’s a good idea to go walking or swimming or do yoga or Pilates. All low or no-impact activities will help you relax and strengthen your back, pelvic, and leg muscles. This will be very positive at the time of delivery.

3. Is it possible to diet?

Pregnancy is the least appropriate time to go on a diet, as you need to have a balanced and varied eating plan that includes the entire nutritional pyramid.

If you want to take care not to gain too much weight, consult your doctor to learn how to organize your eating routine so you have all the nutrients necessary for your health and that of your baby.

4. How many pounds will I gain during pregnancy?

This will depend a lot on your initial weight at the time of pregnancy, but an increase of between 20 and 26 pounds is healthy. Your gynecologist will tell you what the correct parameter is according to your health status and your previous medical history.

5. Can I have sex while I’m pregnant?

Unless medically contraindicated because of a particular problem, you can have sex throughout your pregnancy.

6. I’ve planned a vacation, can I travel?

Traveling while pregnant depends on when you want to travel and how far you want to go. It’s not recommended between 24 and 36 weeks, because if you need medical care for premature labor, you’ll be far from your usual care center.

If you’re going on vacation, look for a destination that has accessible medical care and by no means choose to go to the middle of nowhere.

7. Can I drive?

It’s possible to drive until the time when your belly is 10 inches from the steering wheel. When that distance is reduced, it’s no longer a safe situation.

At the same time, it’s also not good to drive more than 5 hours a day during pregnancy. Spending so much time sitting still is detrimental to the spine and blood circulation in the legs.

8. When will I start to feel my baby move?

New moms usually start to feel their baby move between 15 and 22 weeks of gestation. However, there’s no fixed rule, as every pregnancy is different.

9. When should I go to the emergency room?

Every pregnancy has its scheduled check-ups with the specialist, but in certain situations, it’s advisable to go to the emergency room for a medical evaluation. Here’s a list of some cases that require immediate consultation:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Vaginal bleeding or fluid loss
• The onset of regular contractions before 37 weeks
• Fever, severe headache, vomiting, and persistent diarrhea
• Discomfort when urinating
• Bumps to the abdomen (even if you feel fine)
• You can’t feel your baby moving (after the fifth month)

10. Until when can I work?

In general terms, work isn’t risky for pregnant women. However, it will depend on the type of tasks you perform and the environment in which you work.

Pregnant women are protected by special laws and employers are obliged to take the necessary measures to ensure your safety and that of your baby. For this reason, it’s important that you report your condition at work as soon as possible.

11. Can I have an X-ray?

Exposure to X-rays isn’t recommended for pregnant women, but if the need arises, health professionals are able to take precautions to protect the health of the baby. However, whenever possible, this type of study should be postponed until after giving birth.

Turn to reliable sources during your first pregnancy and always

Surely there will be many more questions to ask, so we recommend that you write them down and consult with your trusted doctor.

As in many things in life, there are people who, with the intention of helping, sometimes give erroneous advice or advice that’s not compatible with your case. For this reason, the best thing to do is to always turn to reliable sources when in doubt.

Your obstetrician, gynecologist, on-call doctor, midwife, or nurse will be able to clear up your concerns and give you the certainty you need. They, along with your family, will be your support in the process that you’ve just begun of learning to be a mother.

Finally, don’t let the questions paralyze you. Look for the answers in the right places and enjoy your first pregnancy!