Other Pregnancy Questions.
I have a couple of friends who got pregnant at about the same time I did, but we all look as if we're at different stages of pregnancy. Is anything wrong?
No, not usually. Every woman's pregnancy is different. A lot of what you look like depends on your size (how tall you are, your weight) and the size of your growing baby. Don't expect to look the same as other women or to have the same experiences as your friends.
I feel upset because there's so much to do before my baby is born. What can I do?
You may start to feel guilty because you can't do everything you want to as your pregnancy progresses. Blaming yourself for things that are out of your control is counterproductive. Take some time to evaluate each situation, do what you can, let the rest go, then relax and enjoy life!
My breasts are really sore. Is this normal?
Changes in your breasts may begin early in your pregnancy; it isn't unusual for them to tingle or to be sore. You may also notice your breasts growing larger, or see a darkening area or an elevation of the glands around the nipple.
It seems like I am always going to the bathroom since I found out I'm pregnant. Is this normal?
More frequent urination is common in pregnancy.
We have a dog that has been our "baby" for 6 years. Now we are expecting a real baby. Will we have problems with our pet?
When a baby is born to a couple with a dog that has been the center of attention for a long while, problems may arise. Sometimes the dog resents the attention the baby gets and growls at the infant, barks or demands attention. The animal may even revert to unacceptable behavior, such as wetting or tearing things up.
What can we do to help our dog accept the new baby?
If your dog has never been around children, begin introducing him or her to the sights, sounds and smells of a new baby before your baby is born. When you bring the baby home, give your dog positive attention while introducing him or her to the new baby. Be firm when your dog misbehaves don't let him or her get away with bad behavior. Be sure your male dog is neutered; unneutered dogs are more apt to growl, snap and bite. Don't isolate your dog when you bring the baby home. Make him or her part of family interactions. Never leave the dog alone with the baby. Use common sense, and take things slowly.
We have a cat. Should we expect problems with him when we bring the baby home?
Cats are affected in many of the same ways as dogs, and much of the advice on dogs applies to cats. Expect a cat to take longer to adjust to a new baby than a dog does. You may have to train your cat to stay out of the baby's crib.
Dealing with Other People
We've been considering names for our baby; some of them are unusual. Should we discuss our choices with others?
Some couples decide on a name together, but don't tell anyone else until after the baby is born. It's easy for people to criticize a name when you're thinking about it, but few people will tell you they don't like a name when you've already named your baby!
Everybody at work seems to have advice for me. How do I handle this?
Unwelcome advice, unwarranted questions, even physical contact are common during pregnancy. Use humor to deflect some of the questions. You can listen to unasked-for advice, nod wisely and say "thanks," without making any commitment. Try not to let this attention annoy you.
I find it annoying when people (even total strangers) pat my pregnant tummy. How can I keep them from doing this?
Ask people to look and not to touch! When someone reaches out to touch your abdomen, tell them you are uncomfortable with that.
Taking Others to Prenatal Appointments
Would it be all right to take my partner to my appointments with me?
It's a great idea! It will help him realize what is happening to you and to feel a part of the pregnancy. And it's nice for your partner and your doctor to meet before labor begins.
Can I take anyone else with me to my appointments?
It's all right to take your mother or mother-in-law to an appointment with you to hear the baby's heartbeat. Things have really changed since your mother carried you; she might enjoy a visit. If you want to bring anyone else, discuss it with your doctor first.
My kids are curious and ask a lot of questions about my pregnancy. Is it OK to take them with me to my prenatal appointments?
Many offices don't mind if you bring your children with you; other offices ask that you not bring children along. Ask about office policy. If you're having problems and need to talk with your doctor, it can be very difficult to have a discussion if you're also trying to take care of a young child.
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