Can Dogs Affect Your Pregnancy? Key Insights for Expecting Mothers
Can dogs affect the fetus? Dear Doctor, I am currently living in the United States and am 30 weeks pregnant. I have a small indoor dog. Will this affect my fetus? I love animals and often sleep and play with my dog, but my doctor said it's fine as long as I wash my hands. I...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. Being too close to puppies can increase the risk of parasitic infections, as puppies often carry many parasites. It is essential to wash your hands frequently and it is best not to sleep with the puppy. 2. A normal weight gain during pregnancy is about 12 kilograms (until full...[Read More] Can Dogs Affect Your Pregnancy? Key Insights for Expecting Mothers
Understanding High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Pregnancy-induced hypertension Why does blood pressure increase during pregnancy? How can it be avoided or controlled?
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
Gestational hypertension accounts for 7% of all pregnancies. The main causes include: 1. Abnormal development of placental blood vessels 2. Abnormal immune response in the mother 3. Abnormal hormone metabolism 4. Family history of hypertension 5. Previous gestational hypertension...[Read More] Understanding High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Do I Need to Disclose Past Abortions During Pregnancy Checkups?
Obstetrics and Gynecology Doctor, I have had three previous abortions, and I am currently one month pregnant and planning to carry this pregnancy to term. However, I do not want my husband to know about my past abortions. Should I inform my doctor about my previous abortions duri...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
You may privately inform the physician and request that they and the relevant healthcare personnel keep the information confidential.[Read More] Do I Need to Disclose Past Abortions During Pregnancy Checkups?
Thyroid Health During Pregnancy: Impacts of T4 Levels and Past Conditions
Thyroid gland I am 4 months pregnant and had a blood test for thyroid hormones T4 and TSH. The results were T4 = 16.4 (normal range = 4.2–12.5), and TSH was within the normal range. I have a history of pheochromocytoma and am concerned about any potential effects on the fetus and...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
During pregnancy, thyroid function may slightly increase (T4 level at 16.4). It is advisable to consult a specialist in thyroid disorders.[Read More] Thyroid Health During Pregnancy: Impacts of T4 Levels and Past Conditions
Understanding Bleeding During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Concerns
Bleeding during pregnancy I am currently 30 weeks pregnant and occasionally feel tightness in my lower abdomen, with my belly feeling hard. Sometimes, fetal movements are uncomfortable or even painful. Four days ago, I noticed dark red bleeding, and it has continued despite takin...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Occasional tightening in the lower abdomen is likely a natural contraction, but if there are regular contractions accompanied by pain, medical attention should be sought immediately. At 30 weeks of pregnancy, any bleeding should prompt an evaluation to rule out the possibility of...[Read More] Understanding Bleeding During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Concerns
Can Pregnant Women Safely Keep Cats? Understanding Toxoplasmosis Risks
Pregnant Women Raising Cats Before pregnancy, I adopted a cat and read that cats can transmit toxoplasmosis to humans, which can have adverse effects on the fetus. Where can I go to get tested for this antibody for myself or my kitten?
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Cat feces can indeed be a vector for Toxoplasma gondii. Infection during pregnancy can lead to fetal malformations, and the only way to avoid this is to refrain from close contact with cats while pregnant. Antibody testing is available for reference, and obstetric clinics offer t...[Read More] Can Pregnant Women Safely Keep Cats? Understanding Toxoplasmosis Risks
When to Use a Pregnancy Test for Accurate Results?
When is a pregnancy test effective to use? My last menstrual period started on September 28. I had two instances of external ejaculation on October 8 and 10. My menstrual cycle is typically around 28 to 30 days. 1. When is it appropriate to use a home pregnancy test to check fo...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
1. Generally, the fertile window during pregnancy is approximately 5 days before ovulation and up to 24 hours after ovulation. If we consider a menstrual cycle of 28 to 30 days, the fertile period is roughly between the 10th and 17th days of the cycle. After fertilization, implan...[Read More] When to Use a Pregnancy Test for Accurate Results?
Managing Medication for Pregnant Women with Epilepsy: Key Considerations
Management of Pregnant Women with Epilepsy For a woman who has had epilepsy since childhood and is required to take long-term medication, it is crucial to manage her medication carefully during pregnancy. Here are some key points to consider: 1. **Consultation with Healthcare Pr...
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Antiepileptic drugs should be continued during pregnancy; otherwise, discontinuing these medications may lead to a recurrence of seizures. Based on the principle of minimizing harm, it is essential to maintain the use of antiepileptic medications. Additionally, it is recommended ...[Read More] Managing Medication for Pregnant Women with Epilepsy: Key Considerations
Effective Strategies to Alleviate Nausea During Pregnancy
Vomiting Dear Dr. Cheng: How can I alleviate nausea during pregnancy? Thank you.
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Eating small, frequent meals and receiving comfort from your partner can help alleviate vomiting. If vomiting persists severely, you may need to go to the hospital for intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement. Additionally, antiemetics or vitamin B6 can be used to improve m...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Alleviate Nausea During Pregnancy