Common Sense Pregnancy

You don’t need to see a doctor as soon as you become pregnant, unless certain problems arise.

Finding out that you’re pregnant can lead to a number of overwhelming thoughts. And your first reaction to learning you’re pregnant might be to get in touch with your doctor. But don’t be surprised or concerned if your doctor sets an appointment for six to eight weeks down the line.

While it’s natural to be concerned, there’s no need to rush yourself to a doctor the minute you become pregnant. The best thing you can do is be patient and make the most of these first few weeks.

Since it’s too early for ultrasounds or screening exams, there isn’t much for a doctor to do at this stage. But there are some simple things you can do to help ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Prenatal vitamins are a good source of folic acid and iron, which are important at this stage. And you can also use this time to select a health-care specialist that you’d like to have by your side throughout your pregnancy. It’s best to choose someone you’re absolutely comfortable with.

There are also important signs you should not ignore – including bleeding or severe nausea – which do require an early doctor’s appointment.

Some pregnant women can suffer from a case of severe nausea called hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires medication and rehydration.

Another symptom to be aware of is vaginal bleeding. This is known as spotting, and 25 percent of pregnant women experience it during the first trimester (that is, within the first 13 weeks).

If the spotting is light, be calm and see what happens. If the spotting persists or becomes stronger, or if you’re not certain whether it’s getting stronger, now is definitely the time to call your doctor, since it could be the sign of a miscarriage. A doctor will let you know what the next step should be.

In the next blink, we’ll take a closer look at how to find a pregnancy specialist who can make the next nine months a little easier.