Early baby movement

Many feel those first swishes and flutters some time between week 16 and week 20, but it can be tough to distinguish between these tiny sensations and gas. Still, these first movements are exciting and reassuring. They’re generally not consistent, and it’s very normal to go days without feeling any movement at all during these weeks. 

Baby movement during weeks 24-28

By this time, most people are able to sense their baby move daily. You might have a sense of their natural rhythm (do you have an early bird or a night owl?). By 28 weeks, many healthcare providers recommend a daily “kick count” if you have any concerns about how often baby is moving. You can find out more about how to do that with the Ovia Kick Counter here.

Which movements are normal?

As your baby grows, you may be able to distinguish between kicks, punches, and stretching. After a big meal, you may notice baby moving much more than usual. This is not cause for alarm — it’s a natural reaction to an increase in your blood sugar. Increased movements are generally a very reassuring sign of how baby is doing. Sometimes you may notice a rhythmic bouncing feeling — generally these are hiccups! They are very common (some babies get them every day), and again, not a cause for concern (just super cute). 

What if I’m not feeling anything?

If you’re early in pregnancy (before 20 weeks) it is completely normal not to have felt baby move quite yet. After that point, the types of sensations people have varies. In particular, those who are pregnant with their first baby and those with anterior placentas are less likely to notice all of their baby’s movements. You and your provider can work on a plan after 28 weeks to count movements or use another method to check on baby’s wellbeing. 

For any parent after 28 weeks, losing the sensation of baby moving can be really scary and should be addressed. If kick counting doesn’t offer any reassurance, you should always feel empowered to contact your provider or seek more urgent care, as there are many ways to check on your baby!

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Counting baby’s kicks
• Pregnancy by week

Sources

• Aya Mohr Sasson, Abraham Tsur, Anat Kalter, Alina Weissmann Brenner, Liat Gindes & Boaz Weisz (2016) Reduced fetal movement: factors affecting maternal perception, The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine, 29:8, 1318-1321, DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2015.1047335
• Mangesi L, Hofmeyr GJ, Smith V, Smyth RMD. Fetal movement counting for assessment of fetal wellbeing. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2015, Issue 10. Art. No.: CD004909. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004909.pub3. Accessed 26 May 2022. https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/fetal-movement-counting.

One of the advances in Covid care is the medication Paxlovid. Wondering if this might be a good fit for you? You’ve come to the right place!

What is Paxlovid

Paxlovid is a combination of two medications, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. For it to be effective, you need to start it within five days of your first symptoms and take it for five days. The goal of treatment with Paxlovid is to reduce the chances of hospitalization and death for people at increased risk.

Providers have used ritonavir for a long time to treat pregnant people, and it has a good safety profile. We have less information about nirmatrelvir, but expert opinion is that its benefits in helping people avoid serious illness from Covid likely outweigh any unknown risks. 

Paxlovid during pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, at the very least your provider should offer you Paxlovid and feel comfortable discussing its risks and benefits given your unique health situation. They will consider your vaccination status and additional risk factors like diabetes, kidney disease, and any challenges to your cardiovascular health. 

Paxlovid while breastfeeding

If you’re breastfeeding, then you’re aware that it’s important to check the safety of all of your medications, as many pass into your breast milk. If you have risk factors for severe illness or are not vaccinated, you may want to talk to your provider about Paxlovid. 

Again, there isn’t a lot of safety data on nirmatrelvir, so it’s important to have a risk and benefit discussion with your provider. There is conflicting information on breastfeeding safety, and that can be very difficult to navigate. Parents are choosing a range of solutions, including continuing to breastfeed and pumping and dumping. The experts at the Infant Risk Center are updating information as it becomes available and are available for free consultation by phone. 

If you have questions or are interested in taking Paxlovid or understanding more about it so you can be prepared if you get Covid, reach out to your provider for more details. They have all the most up-to-date information and should be able to talk through your options. 

Read more

COVID-19, postpartum, and breastfeeding: your questions answered

Everything you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccines

If you have given birth vaginally before, perineal massage can still be helpful as it’s been shown to decrease perineal pain at three months postpartum. 

What is perineal massage?

Perineal massage is a process of applying pressure to the pelvic muscles, by inserting one or two clean fingers into the vagina a couple inches and applying pressure. While there’s still more we need to learn about exactly how often and how long it should be done for maximum effectiveness, a couple times a week for 5 minutes is a good rule of thumb. You can start at week 34 of pregnancy.

What’re the benefits?

This practice has the most significant benefits during your first pregnancy. It decreases the relative risk of perineal trauma by 10%. It also decreases perineal pain after birth and can also be done during labor, to decrease the severity of a tear.  

How do I start perineal massage?

You can either massage your perineum yourself, or ask your partner to help. Do it after a shower or bath, when you’re feeling relaxed and comfortable.

Get some lubricant, sit comfortably, and insert a clean finger or thumb a couple inches into your vagina, gently stretching the skin to the side, then toward the back of the body, then toward the other side. Continue this U movement for 5 minutes. This will help prepare your muscles and tissues for the stretching that will happen during birth.

It can be helpful to use a handheld mirror to see what you’re doing. You may feel a bit of burning or a stretching feeling at first, but perineal massage should not hurt.   

This content was reviewed by Dr. Lisa Hickman and Dr. Katie Propst. Dr. Hickman runs the Childbirth Pelvic Floor Disorders Clinic at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Propst runs the Postpartum Care Clinic at Cleveland Clinic. 

Read more

• Vaginal delivery and that first bathroom trip
• Perineal massage during pregnancy

Sources

• Jen Gunter. “Massaging Away a Potential Complication of Birth?” The New York Times. January 31, 2019. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/31/well/live/massaging-away-a-potential-complication-of-birth.html. 
• Healthwise Staff. “Childbirth: Perineal Massage Before Labor.” Healthwise. University of Michigan Health. October 8, 2020. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tn10339. 
• Sharon Muza. “What Is the Evidence for Perineal Massage During Pregnancy to Prevent Tearing?” Lamaze International. Lamaze International. December 18, 2012. https://www.lamaze.org/Connecting-the-Dots/what-is-the-evidence-for-perineal-massage-during-pregnancy-to-prevent-tearing. 

Helpful information about iron-deficiency (anemia)

Iron-deficiency anemia is easily diagnosed and treated — and very common in females, especially those of childbearing age. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 42% of pregnant women and 30% of nonpregnant women and suffer from this condition.

Why do so many women of childbearing age have iron-deficiency anemia?

Women who are of childbearing age are at high risk for the condition because of the blood lost during monthly periods. If you have a heavy period, you might be at high risk for this condition. Women who are pregnant are also at high risk for the condition because their bodies are in need of even more iron than usual due to their increased blood volume and the iron and hemoglobin needed for a baby’s growth.

A number of other conditions and risk factors can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Individuals who don’t consume enough iron — found in foods like meat, leafy greens, eggs, and iron-fortified foods — could be at risk. People who suffer blood loss for other reasons — such as ulcers or hernias — or even frequent blood donors can also be at risk. And because iron is absorbed by the body in the small intestine, individuals with disorders that affect the small intestine’s ability to absorb such nutrients can be at risk too.

What are some of the symptoms of anemia? And how is it diagnosed and treated?

Mild anemia usually goes unnoticed as some of the common symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia can be easily attributed to other issues or overlooked. But when the condition does worsen, common symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Generalized weakness
• Pale or yellow skin
• Headache, lightheadedness, or dizziness
• Pounding in the ears
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Cold hands and feet
• Brittle nails
• Hair loss
• Sore tongue
• Poor appetite
• Pica, unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances (like ice, dirt, or starch)

Your healthcare provider can run blood tests to diagnose iron-deficiency anemia. Because the condition is often under-diagnosed, being your own healthcare advocate can go a long way. If you’re suffering from any of these symptoms, ask your provider if they think such tests are warranted.

Once diagnosed, your provider will work to understand the underlying cause of the condition. Fortunately, for many, anemia can easily be treated with over-the-counter iron supplements or dietary changes. Many people do start to feel better after a few weeks, and your healthcare provider will likely have you retake the same blood tests a month or so after starting treatment to see if your iron levels are improving.

What can iron-deficiency anemia lead to?

If iron-deficiency anemia is left untreated, it can cause a number of complications such as heart problems and a greater susceptibility to infection.

In pregnant women, the condition is linked to premature births, babies with low birth weight, and greater blood loss after birth. Luckily, blood tests at initial prenatal healthcare appointments include blood tests that will look for signs of anemia. Based on these test results, for many women their prenatal care may very well include iron supplements.

Read more

• Foods to fix iron-deficiency anemia
• Why preventive care is essential for better health

Sources:

• AJ Friedman et al. “Iron deficiency anemia in women: A practical guide to detection, diagnosis, and treatment.” Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey. 70(5): 342-53. May 2015. Retrieved August 28 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25974731.
• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Iron deficiency anemia.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, November 11 2016. Retrieved August 28 2017. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/iron-deficiency-anemia/home/ovc-20266507.
• “Iron-Deficiency Anemia.” American Society of Hematology. American Society of Hematology. Retrieved August 28 2017. http://www.hematology.org/Patients/Anemia/Iron-Deficiency.aspx.
• “What Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia?” National Institutes of Health: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. March 26 2014. Retrieved August 28 2017. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/emotional-support.aspx.

• Pregnancy complications and your risk of cardiovascular disease
• What is a molar pregnancy?

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Molar Pregnancy: Complications.” MayoClinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Oct 24 2014. Web.
• “What is gestational trophoblastic disease?” Cancer. American Cancer Society, Feb 9 2016. Web.
• “Gestational Trophoblastic Disease.” MedlinePlus. US National Library of Medicine, Jun 11 2014. Web.
• Ross Berkowitz, et al. “Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: Epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, staging, and risk stratification.” Uptodate. UptoDate, Inc., Jan 5 2015. Web.

The majority of hydatidiform moles, also known as molar pregnancies, are very treatable, whether through a dilation and curettage (D&C) or a more permanent procedure like a hysterectomy. The success rates of these procedures are quite high.

Understanding potential symptoms or complications from molar pregnancy

Women should know that possible complications are associated with molar pregnancies, and also that women who have a molar pregnancy may be at greater risk of certain future health conditions.

Persistent gestational trophoblastic disease

A molar pregnancy is one of a few different conditions under the umbrella of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). Most of the time after treatment to remove a molar pregnancy, the body will get rid of any molar tissue that remains in the uterus. However, for some women, molar tissue remains and continues to grow. This is known as persistent gestational trophoblastic disease. Persistent GTD occurs in roughly one out of every five women who experience a molar pregnancy. It is more common after a complete molar pregnancy than a partial one.

When the remaining molar tissue grows into, or invades, the tissue surrounding the uterus, gestational trophoblastic neoplasm (GTN) has occurred. GTN can be dangerous, and it is considered a malignancy because it has the potential to spread to other parts of the body. To make sure that the tissue isn’t still growing, your healthcare provider will regularly measure your hCG level and check to make sure it is decreasing over time. A sign of GTN is high hCG levels after the removal of molar tissue.

If it’s determined that a woman has GTN, the condition requires additional treatment, but it can usually be treated with chemotherapy or a hysterectomy, depending on what the provider and the woman decide is best.

Invasive mole

Invasive moles occur when molar tissue remains in the uterus after treatment and grows into the uterine muscle wall. Most of the time, invasive moles will remain localized to the uterus, but invasive moles do have the ability to spread to other parts of the body, which is why they require additional treatment.

Choriocarcinoma

Choriocarcinoma is a cancerous and rarer type of GTD, and while they can develop spontaneously, half of all cases of choriocarcinoma occur after a molar pregnancy. The condition grows quickly and can spread to other organs in the body, so it needs to be treated right away. Cancer drugs are usually used to treat choriocarcinoma.

Knowing your risk

It’s important to understand that these complications are uncommon, and they don’t affect the majority of women who experience a molar pregnancy. However, knowing the possible complications can help you prepare for your appointments and understand why your provider takes certain measures to monitor things like your hCG levels. If you have any questions about possible risks of GTD, make sure to ask your provider to tell you more about them, and how they may or may not relate to your health.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Pregnancy complications and your risk of cardiovascular disease
• What is a molar pregnancy?

Sources

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Molar Pregnancy: Complications.” MayoClinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Oct 24 2014. Web.
• “What is gestational trophoblastic disease?” Cancer. American Cancer Society, Feb 9 2016. Web.
• “Gestational Trophoblastic Disease.” MedlinePlus. US National Library of Medicine, Jun 11 2014. Web.
• Ross Berkowitz, et al. “Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia: Epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, staging, and risk stratification.” Uptodate. UptoDate, Inc., Jan 5 2015. Web.

You come into contact with a wide range of chemicals every day because, well… everything is a chemical — even water. That said, you may want to avoid certain synthetic chemicals found in cosmetics, cleaning formulas, and household products. Here’s what the research can tell us.

Hair dye

Black, blond, brown, red, or purple — whatever your shade, you can dye your hair during pregnancy. The main concern is about chemicals in the dye absorbing through your scalp and entering your bloodstream. But according to the Mayo Clinic, the skin absorbs a limited amount of any product, and the minimal amount isn’t believed to pose any harm to you or your developing baby.

To play it safe, color your hair in a well-ventilated area, and don’t leave the dye on your hair for longer than directed. If you want to avoid dye on your scalp completely, you could opt for a chic ombre look during pregnancy.

Nail polish

There aren’t any known risks of painting your nails while pregnant. Some nail polishes contain phthalates, which could be harmful in high doses. However, the small amount in nail lacquer shouldn’t pose any risk.

Chemicals found in nail polish and nail polish remover (including paraffin, formaldehyde, and acetone) can create fumes, whether at home or in a nail salon. But as long as there’s a window or door open, you probably don’t need to worry about breathing in chemicals. That said, if you feel dizzy or nauseous, you may want to pause the manicure and get some fresh air.

Face and body products

So, what about other cosmetics, like skin and body care? Products containing retinoids should generally be avoided because they’ve been shown to increase the risk of certain birth defects when taken orally. Salicylic acid that is applied to the skin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but should not be taken orally at 325 mg or higher, for example in the form of adult aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). On the other hand, studies have shown that low dose aspirin (about 81 mg/day) prescribed by a medical professional can prevent or delay preeclampsia and does not increase the chance of complications or birth defects.

But you might be glad to hear most other common skincare ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy. AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid and lactic acid have the green light since they don’t soak into the skin. Sunscreen, self-tanner, and skincare products with benzoyl peroxide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and glycerin are thought to be safe as well. If you need more advanced skincare during pregnancy, it’s always okay to consult with a dermatologist.

Bug spray

As you know, using a bug spray can lower your chances of being bitten. Though insect bites can be harmless or nothing more than annoying, they can also cause various skin infections and diseases. It’s particularly important to avoid mosquito bites if you live in an area affected by Zika virus.

While there are different kinds of bug sprays you can buy, products containing DEET tend to offer the best protection. You may have heard about potential side effects of DEET, but there’s currently no evidence that it’s harmful to pregnant folks or their developing babies.

House paint

House paints sold today often have very low amounts of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or none at all. For this reason, it’s unlikely that painting a room or hanging out near a paint job will harm you or your baby.

If you want to be on the safe side, steer clear of fumey solvent-based paints, latex paints, and spray paints, and leave stripping old paint to someone else to avoid lead exposure. Your best bet is to paint in a well-ventilated area using a water-based paint labeled “low-VOC” or “zero VOC.”

Cleaning products and detergents

According to the CDC, heavy exposure to high-level chemical disinfectants might increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. However, these “high-level” cleaners are typically used in healthcare facilities, salons, and other public spaces to sterilize equipment and shared surfaces. Most household cleaners are safe to use during pregnancy as long as you use them as directed, work in a well-ventilated area, and wear gloves if necessary.

Pesticides

Pesticides are used to kill weeds, fungi, insects, and other pests like rodents in yards and gardens. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to miscarriages and birth defects. Since there’s no known “safe level,” it’s best to avoid using pesticides and limit your exposure.

Since pesticides are used in farming, residues are sometimes detected on produce. Consuming small amounts is generally thought to be safe, but it’s still a good idea to thoroughly wash or peel your fruits and veggies before eating them. 

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Products to avoid when pregnant
• Activities to avoid when pregnant

Sources

• Tobah, Y. B. Is it OK to use hair dye during pregnancy? Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. 2017. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/hair-dye-and-pregnancy/faq-20058484
• Romeo, A RN, PhD. Nailing Down the Facts: Nail Treatment Safety in Pregnancy. MotherToBaby. 2025. Web. https://mothertobaby.org/baby-blog/nailing-down-the-facts-nail-treatment-safety-in-pregnancy/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3114665/
• Michigan Medicine Healthwise Staff. Insect Repellents Topic Overview. University of Michigan. 2020. Web. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/uf4815
• National Health Service (NHS). Can paint fumes affect my unborn baby? 2020. Web. https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/pregnancy/can-paint-fumes-affect-my-unborn-baby/
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Reproductive Health and the Workplace: About Chemical Disinfectants and Sterilants and Reproductive Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). April 3, 2024 Web. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/reproductive-health/prevention/disinfectants.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro/disinfectants.html
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). About Pesticides and reproductive health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dec 13,2023 Web. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/reproductive-health/prevention/pesticides.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro/pesticides.html

Helpful hints for staying healthy

When you’re carrying Baby around in your womb for nine months, you’ve got to be extra cautious and diligent about avoiding any behaviors, activities, or situations that could put you or them in danger. Because of this, you should consider the following, just to make sure that you’re doing everything you can to stay safe:

• Take it slow: Make sure you rise slowly from any seated or lying position.
• Avoid risky exercises/overexertion: Of course it’s important to get plenty of exercise when you’re pregnant, just make sure that the risks don’t outweigh the benefits! Pregnant women should avoid incredibly strenuous exercise, and dangerous activities like bumper cars, contact sports, and downhill skiing so as to not open up the potential for harm to Baby.
• Take a break when you need it: If you’re feeling dizzy, off-balance, or just not right, try taking a seat or lying down and resting – you don’t want to go for a topple!
• Know your surroundings: Accidents are called accidents for a reason – sometimes a bump or tumble is completely unavoidable, but quite frequently certain venues are more accident-likely than others. For instance, if a stage-diving heavy metal musician does a stage dive on top of your pregnant self, it’s his fault, but being at the Megadeth show may not be a good idea to begin with. Pregnant women need to evaluate each situation they are in, and think about whether or not it is a safe environment.
• Your healthcare provider, your friend: If you have any concern about a particular activity, behavior, setting, or anything else, we recommend that you call your healthcare provider to inquire about whether or not you are making the right choices. You should also call your healthcare provider if you believe your or your baby’s physical health might be in question, like after a fall.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Clumsiness when pregnant
• What’s a risky exercise during pregnancy?

Sources

• Sir John Dewhurst. Dewhurst’s Textbook of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 8th ed. Keith Edmonds. John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 2012. Print.
• “Staying healthy and safe at work.” March of Dimes. March of Dimes, 6/3/2016. Web.

• Do you have a partner or spouse who gets very jealous or tries to control your life?
• Does your partner or spouse try to keep you away from or control time with your family or friends?
• Does someone close to you sometimes say insulting things or threaten you?
• Is there someone you are afraid to disagree with because they might hurt you or other family members? 
• Are you in a relationship with someone who has pushed, hit, kicked, or otherwise physically hurt you? 
• Are you in a relationship with someone who is forcing or coercing you to have sex, or is controlling or denying you access to birth control?

According to Futures Without Violence, 1 in 4 women in the US has experienced violence by a partner at some point in their lives. It is important to know that this is not your fault and you are not alone. If you, or someone you know, ever feels unsafe in their relationship, there is help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 by phone, text, or live chat:

• To reach them by phone, call 1-800-799-7233
• If you are unable to speak safely, you can go to thehotline.org and click the “Chat Now” button for a live chat on their website
• And finally, you can access the text line by texting “LOVEIS” to 22522

Creating a “Path to Safety”

If you are in an abusive relationship, it is important to create a plan to keep yourself safe. Not every person’s plan will look the same because no situation is the same. It is important to remember that you don’t have to do anything you aren’t comfortable with right now, but taking small steps can make options feel more possible when you are ready. For more detailed safety plans or more information, go to https://www.thehotline.org/help/path-to-safety/. Below are some suggestions:

• Code Word: Identify at least two people who you can contact with a code word to let them know you are in trouble and plan for what they will do if you send them the word.
• The Safest Room: If there is an argument, move to the safest room in the house. Ideally, this would be a room you can move to with no weapons, and would have a way you could leave the building. If possible, try to avoid stairs and stay on the first floor of the building you are in.
• If you have children, do not run to where they are as your partner may hurt them as well. Also, plan a code word to signal to them that they should get help or leave the house.
• If violence is unavoidable, make yourself a small target. Dive into a corner and curl up into a ball with your face protected and arms around each side of your head, fingers entwined.
• Create a “Peaceful Space”: If you cannot leave your home, try to create a “peaceful space” for yourself in your home (if that is safe for you). You can draw pictures of a more peaceful place and put them on a wall to help you take an emotional break to visualize a more peaceful place. This is also an activity you can do with your children. You can also write positive affirmations and put them up on the wall to remind yourself of your worth. It is never your fault when someone chooses to be abusive to you, and it has no reflection on the value you have as a person.
• If possible, have a phone accessible at all times and know what numbers to call for help. Know where the nearest public phone is located. Know the phone number to your local shelter. If your life is in danger, call the police.
• Exit Plan: In case you have to flee, create an exit plan ahead of time with someone who could support this need. Is there a trusted friend/relative who you can stay with, if needed?
• Emergency Bag: Pack a bag with an extra set of keys, clothes for you and your children, a pay-as-you-go cellphone, medications, copies of important documents, etc
• Important Documents: Make copies or take pictures of your important documents for yourself and send them to a trusted friend or relative. (IDs, social security cards, immigration documents, birth certificates, health insurance information, and Orders of Protection) Be mindful of sending anything via phone or computer. Please use whatever method is safest for you.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Resources

Sanctuary for Families COVID-19 Safety Plan

National Domestic Violence Hotline

CDC website

Read more

• Maintaining healthy relationships
• Parenting as a partnership

Is it safe to fly when pregnant?

For the most part, occasional flying during pregnancy is safe. However, healthcare providers often recommend that you abstain from flying during the last weeks of pregnancy, sometimes as early as 33 or 34 weeks. There is very little risk of any negative effect caused by the altitude or speed – instead, the main concern is simply that you’ll go into labor and give birth on the plane – which isn’t the safest situation.

Before the plane

Before you even board your flight, there are several things to consider. Check out your destination, and make sure you know where you can access care for pregnancy in the rare event you might need it. Even in certain places in the US, hospitals may not have a unit equipped to care for you or Baby that is nearby. Knowing where to go is so important.

In case the unexpected happens, having a copy of your medical records related to pregnancy is very important. You may be able to access this electronically, but if not, consider asking your OB provider to print you a written copy.

How airlines treat pregnant flying

Giving birth on a flight is probably not the way you imagined delivering a baby, and “midwife” is definitely not part of a flight attendant’s job description. Because of this, some airlines make sure that women flying in late pregnancy are doing so with a healthcare provider’s approval.

Many airlines require a healthcare provider’s note past a certain point in pregnancy (as early as after month 7) that includes important information, including your due date. Airlines will also often make sure you to avoid sitting in the emergency exit row. You’ll still need security screening just like everyone else, and rest assured this is safe to do!

Keeping it cozy

As is commonplace for all things pregnancy, staying comfortable is probably the most important thing to take care of when you’re flying while pregnant. Sitting in an aisle seat is probably your best bet for the extra space and easier access to the toilet. It is safe to wear your lap belt across your hips as you normally would, and you should keep it fastened when seated. For longer flights, consider wearing compression stockings, as well as getting up every two hours and stretching periodically to help maintain your circulation and prevent blood clots. Stretchy and comfortable clothes are a must, so plan to change at your destination airport if necessary.

Stay healthy!

Staying hydrated while flying is great for your health, and will help you feel good when you arrive. Flying is a very dry environment, and that aisle seat will come in handy if you’re getting all of the water you need!

In addition, it can be helpful to pack some hand sanitizer and a mask. Crowded airports and planes expose you to a lot of germs, and pregnancy suppresses your immune system. A little precaution goes a long way. 

The bottom line

Traveling while pregnant is a common and rewarding experience for many people. It’s always okay to opt-out if it doesn’t feel right or safe! Always feel free to ask your OB provider about your potential plan, and be sure to listen to any hesitations or concerns they may have for you.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Babymoons: like a honeymoon, but with a bump
• Great books to read while pregnant

Sources

• Roger W. Harms, M.D. “Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 2/12/2013. Web.
• “Is it safe to fly while pregnant?” NHS. NHS Choices, 6/3/2015. Web.

Changing the cat’s litter box

Cat poop can contain bacteria that can be dangerous for you and Baby, so it’s best to stay away from the litter box.

Healthy alternative: If you have a cat, you should have somebody else change the litter box to be safe. If that’s not an option, wearing gloves, changing the litter box in a well-ventilated area, and not breathing in over the litter box while changing it can help to cut down on risk, though it’s really not advisable if there’s any way of avoiding it.

Caring for large or excitable dogs

Physical contact can cause harm to your growing baby, so wrestling with the Rottweilers is not the wisest choice you could make.

Healthy alternative: Make sure you are prepared and aware around any large, wild pets.

Handling amphibians and reptiles

Amphibians and reptiles may play host to billions of salmonella bacteria, so pregnant women should avoid handling these creatures.

Healthy alternative: Well, the healthiest alternative to holding amphibians and reptiles is to not hold amphibians and reptiles – and since reptiles and amphibians are not recommended as pets for children under 5 years old, if you already have a pet like this, it may be time to start looking for a new home for it.

Overheating

Pregnant women should take care to avoid overheating, as an excess amount of body heat can lead to stunted fetal development, most notably in the neural tube.

Healthy alternative: Take care to stay cool during the summer, and avoid hot tubs.

Sun tanning

Pregnant women are even more susceptible to the dangers of UV radiation, and should take great care to stay shielded from the sun, and not get over-exposed.

Healthy alternative: If you are out in the sun, make sure you apply a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, drink plenty of water, and wear a hat to avoid any risk.

Carnival rides

Carnival rides could be dangerous when you’re pregnant, so you should avoid the ones that go fast, or could result in physical harm.

Healthy alternative: The ferris wheel, and some rides at water parks are safe ways to seek some thrills with Baby on board!

Outdoor biking

Biking should be avoided during pregnancy, as it poses the ever-present risk of falling.

Healthy alternative: Stationary biking, or spinning, is a great, safe way to work the legs and lungs, and for open-air exercise, walking and swimming in an outdoor pool are both great during pregnancy.

Contact sports

Pregnant women should avoid playing contact sports like basketball or football, as large applications of physical force to your belly and baby are possible.

Healthy alternative: You should talk to your healthcare provider about any sport that you wish to play, as opinions on the matter may differ.

Downhill skiing

A high-speed tumble could result in very serious damage to your baby’s development, so downhill skiing is not a good activity while pregnant.

Healthy alternative: Cross-country skiing is perfectly pregnancy-safe.

Gymnastics

Many gymnastic events put women at risk of falling and hurting themselves, or their babies, and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Healthy alternative: There is no safe alternative for flying gymnastics, but stretching and yoga are good ways to stay limber.

Horseback riding

Riding horseback during pregnancy, at even the most pedestrian of paces, is thoroughly ill-advised.

Healthy alternative: Horseback riding is only safe for those who are expert riders, and even then you should consult your healthcare provider first.

Hot tubs

Expectant moms should avoid using hot tubs or saunas, as prolonged exposure can result in overheating, known to be deleterious to Baby‘s neural tube development.

Healthy alternative: Regular bathtub temperatures are safer.

Scuba diving

Scuba diving can cause bubbles to form in the bloodstream when the diver surfaces from the water. Air bubbles can cut off circulation, and prove very damaging to the developing baby.

Healthy alternative: Snorkeling is a great way to mermaid it up, and explore under the sea.

Snowboarding

Tough as it may be, expectant moms should take a break from shredding the slopes, and chill out in the lodge while they are pregnant.

Healthy alternative: There is no safe alternative to snowboarding.

Waterskiing

Waterskiing is a very risky activity for expectant women to engage in, considering the high likelihood of falling.

Healthy alternative: There is no safe alternative for waterskiing during pregnancy.

High-altitude exercise

Exercising in high altitude areas causes changes in the blood’s oxygen level, which could bring fetal damage with the fluctuation.

Healthy alternative: Mountain climbing is not a good idea when pregnant.

Dieting for weight loss

Pregnant moms should under ZERO CIRCUMSTANCES intentionally diet to lose weight, unless specifically instructed to by their healthcare provider. Not gaining enough weight can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or seriously stunted development.

Healthy alternative: can maintain a healthy weight gain by eating fresh fruits and vegetables and avoiding processed foods, which will also help the post-delivery weight loss.

Heavy lifting

Heavy lifting can cause physical damage to both you and Baby, and should be avoided during pregnancy. This is an excuse for people to carry everything for you, live it up!

Healthy alternative: Lifting light weights is still totally pregnancy-safe. And now other people can help you move those heavy boxes!

Live virus immunization

Immunizations that use live versions of the virus to inoculate the subject should definitely be avoided, as there is always a small risk that the immunization can infect baby with the disease.

Healthy alternative: Pregnant women should not get live virus immunizations. Just try to stay healthy!

Walking in tall grass

Ticks carrying lyme disease frequently make their homes in tall grass, so pregnant women should avoid these areas at all cost.

Healthy alternative: Make sure you keep the grass mowed, and to wear long pants on any wilder walks – you don’t want any ticks!

Frequent exposure to loud noises

Loud noises cause certain hormone levels in your body to fluctuate, which is very dangerous considering the hormones in your body are what regulate your pregnancy.

Healthy alternative: Expectant moms should crank the switch back down to 3 or 4 when jamming out.

Cosmetic surgery

Needless to say (hopefully), you shouldn’t get cosmetic surgery while you are pregnant. Cosmetic surgery would put your baby at risk from both physical harm, and the potential effects from certain chemicals used during the surgeries.

Healthy alternative: Pregnant women should wait until after they give birth to get any cosmetic surgeries.

You should call your healthcare provider about the pregnancy safety of any activity that you are unsure about.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Products to avoid while pregnant
• Hair and nail care during pregnancy

Sources

• “Toxoplasmosis.” March of Dimes. March of Dimes, 6/03/2016. Web.
• “Salmonellosis.” March of Dimes. March of Dimes, 3/13/2015. Web.
• Julie A. Lamppa, C.N.M., R.N. “Pregnancy beauty routine: What’s safe?” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 6/03/2016. Web.
• “Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Number 548.” ACOG. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 1/13/2015. Web.
• “Pregnancy and exercise.” Better Health Channel. Better Health Channel, 11/14/2015. Web.