Common questions on symptoms, timelines, safety and high-risk warning signs.
1. When should I book my first pregnancy consultation?
Book as soon as your urine pregnancy test is positive, ideally within 6-8 weeks from your last period, to confirm location of pregnancy and start supplements.
2. What early pregnancy symptoms are normal?
Nausea, breast tenderness, mild cramps, bloating, tiredness and frequent urination are common. Severe pain, heavy bleeding, dizziness or fever are not normal and need urgent review.
3. What symptoms mean I should consult a doctor immediately?
Urgent symptoms include vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, leaking fluid, persistent vomiting, severe headache, blurred vision, reduced fetal movements, swelling of face/hands, high fever or breathlessness.
4. What is GDM (Gestational Diabetes Mellitus)?
GDM is high blood sugar first detected during pregnancy. It can affect mother and baby if untreated, so screening is usually done in the second trimester and managed with diet, monitoring and medication if needed.
5. When is GDM testing usually done?
Most women are screened around 24-28 weeks. Women with risk factors may need earlier testing and repeat assessment later in pregnancy.
6. How often are antenatal checkups needed?
Visit frequency depends on trimester and risk profile. Usually monthly in early pregnancy, every 2-3 weeks in late second/early third trimester, and weekly near due date.
7. Which scans are typically advised in pregnancy?
Common scans include early viability scan, NT scan (11-13+6 weeks), anomaly scan (18-22 weeks), and growth/Doppler scans in third trimester based on clinical need.
8. Can I exercise and travel during pregnancy?
Most women can continue moderate exercise and limited travel in uncomplicated pregnancy after doctor review. High-risk pregnancy may need restrictions.
9. Which medicines and supplements are important?
Folic acid is important early; iron, calcium and vitamin support are added as needed. Avoid self-medication and herbal products without medical advice.
10. How do you plan for normal delivery vs C-section?
Delivery mode is based on maternal health, fetal wellbeing, previous obstetric history, cervix and labor progress. The safest option for mother and baby is prioritized.
11. What postpartum follow-up is needed?
Postpartum care includes recovery checks, bleeding and blood pressure review, breastfeeding support, mental health screening and contraception counseling.