Health & Safety

pregnant woman being examined by physician
Photo credit: iStock.com / Dean Mitchell

To have a healthy pregnancy, do your best to get good prenatal care right away. Your healthcare provider will help you make decisions about prenatal genetic testing, manage your pregnancy weight gain, and cope with any pregnancy complications. It's important to call your provider if you have any signs of a miscarriage, such as bleeding, spotting, or abdominal pain. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, you'll get extra care to help you have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Photo credit: iStock.com / Dean Mitchell

Tests & Screening

woman and partner looking at ultrasound photos
When and how can I find out my baby's sex?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman showing off ultrasound photo
Can you predict your baby's sex with the Ramzi theory?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
blood collection tubes laid out in a pattern
Everything you need to know about the NIPT test
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A pink subwoofer on a blue background
When can I hear my baby's heartbeat?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant women fundal height
Measuring fundal height during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Crystal ball with the confetti
Do at-home gender test kits work?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
close up shot of a woman's arm with band-aid
Why would I need a RhoGAM shot during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman late in pregnancy getting blood draw
What the glucose test during pregnancy is really like
Reviewed by Jennifer Wu, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
A young woman talking to a healthcare provider
What to expect at your first prenatal appointment
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
doctor marking urine sample bottle with a marker
Routine urine tests during pregnancy
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
Pregnant mom holding 3D ultrasound
Everything you need to know about 3D and 4D ultrasounds during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Blood test tubes
Routine blood tests during the first trimester of pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman going over a medical chart with her physician
What happens if you have group B strep during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
poppy seed bagel
Can poppy seeds really make you fail a pregnancy drug test – and can hospitals test you without your knowledge?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman holding ultrasound images
All about pregnancy ultrasounds, including when you'll have yours
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
pregnant woman cradling her belly sitting across from nurse with stethoscope
Preterm labor test: Fetal fibronectin
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman talking to medical assistant
Prenatal testing
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman getting an ultrasound on her stomach with her partner sitting next to her
What is a biophysical profile (BPP)?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
pregnant woman using tablet in her kitchen
How to have a healthy pregnancy and baby
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman getting a nonstress test done at the clinic
Why you may have a non-stress test in pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Dr. Amanda Williams
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When the ultrasound shows no baby
Reviewed by Amanda Williams, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn
Nurse prepping to draw blood for test
Quad screen: What this prenatal test can tell you
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman's hand holding an orange glucola drink next to a gloved hand holding a blood sample
Pregnant moms are skipping the glucose test ‒ but is that safe?
Reviewed by Tarun Jain, M.D., reproductive endocrinology and infertility physician
woman laying on her back getting an ultrasound
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Ultrasound exam
Reviewed by Lizellen La Follette, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman during contraction stress test
Contraction stress test: How and why it's done
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman having an amnio
Amniocentesis
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman having a CVS test
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
doctor is doing an ultrasound scan on pregnant woman
What is the NT scan (nuchal translucency test)?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
couple reviewing an ultrasound with a doctor
Birth defects
Reviewed by Liz Donner, M.D., pediatric hospitalist
doctor examining a pregnant women's belly with a stethoscope
Prenatal visits: What to expect and how to prepare
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
couple getting genetic counseling
Genetic counseling in pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
couple holding hands
What if there's something wrong with your baby during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
medical containers with blood
Down syndrome screening
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman looking at ultrasound photo
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Should we find out our baby's sex?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman getting ultrasound
Neural tube defects: Spina bifida
Reviewed by Liz Donner, M.D., pediatric hospitalist
Dr. Layan Alrahmani
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When can I find out my baby’s sex?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
couple in hospital talking to doctor
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Prenatal test: Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
Reviewed by Aaron Deutsch, M.D., maternal-fetal medicine
Dr. Amanda Williams
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How to advocate for yourself during pregnancy
Reviewed by Amanda Williams, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn
pregnant woman and man looking at ultrasound monitor
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3D ultrasound
Reviewed by Aaron Deutsch, M.D., maternal-fetal medicine
woman laying and looking at ultrasound image of fetus
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Prenatal test: Nuchal translucency scan (NT scan)
Reviewed by Aaron Deutsch, M.D., maternal-fetal medicine
woman talking
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When should I call my doctor with a pregnancy concern?
Reviewed by Jeannette Lager, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn
woman smiling and talking
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What does your OB-GYN want you to know before getting pregnant?
Reviewed by Jeannette Lager, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn
Dr. Sasha Hakam holds up a cervical dilation board, headline reads "How is a cervical check done?"
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How is a cervical check done?
Reviewed by Sasha Hakman, M.D., M.S., ob-gyn
Image of Dr. Sasha Hakman, headline reads "Why might my due date be wrong?"
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Why might my due date be wrong?
Reviewed by Sasha Hakman, M.D., M.S., ob-gyn
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Medications

A woman using a nasal decongestant squirt bottle
Is it safe to use a nasal spray decongestant during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Pregnant woman with belly pain
How to get relief from round ligament pain
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
acetaminophen tablets
Can you take Tylenol while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A pregnant woman holding her belly in pain
What can you take for diarrhea while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
lots of antacid pills
Can you take Tums while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Blue and green gel caplets
Is it safe to take cold medicine while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman exercising and becoming short of breath
Why does shortness of breath happen during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman taking Zofran during pregnancy
Can you take Zofran while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A pregnant woman massaging her calf
How to prevent and relieve leg cramps during pregnancy
Reviewed by Rae Cherng, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
Dayquil medicine in measuring cup
Can you take Dayquil while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Reviewed by Michelle Rockwell
White pills spilling out of white bottle
Why is it okay to take baby aspirin but not regular aspirin during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
woman taking a pink allergy pill
Can you take Benadryl while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A woman sleeping in bed under a blue-gray blanket
Is it safe to use a heated blanket while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
Nyquil being poured into a dosage cup
Can you take Nyquil while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
A pregnant woman opening a pill bottle in the kitchen
Can you take ibuprofen while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
Colorful pills and tablets laid out on a light blue background
Are antibiotics safe to take during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
smiling pharmacist giving a woman a bottle
Safe medications during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Spilled pills bottle in a blue moody background
Can you take melatonin while pregnant?
Reviewed by Jennifer Wu, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
A hand holding a white pill
Is it safe to take allergy medicine while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A woman checking her skin in a mirror
Why Accutane (isotretinoin) is so dangerous during pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A woman and doctor reviewing paperwork together
Is it safe to take thyroid medication while I'm pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
Spilled pills
Can you take anxiety and depression medication during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Nicole Taylor, M.D., PMH-C, perinatal psychiatrist
pregnancy medicine set: sunscreen lotion, hairbrush, medical tablets and a pregnant belly salve
What to stock in your pregnancy medicine cabinet
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
pregnant woman holding her head in despair, while the doctor is trying to comfort her
Opioid use and addiction during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
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Pregnancy Health

pregnant woman in bathroom
Brown spotting during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
representation of pink discharge on panty liner
Pink discharge during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
conceptual representation of hCG levels in pregnancy
How hCG levels change by week of pregnancy
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
thoughtful young woman looking out the window
Is it okay to be pregnant with no pregnancy symptoms?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
flower with drops of water symbolizing watery discharge
Watery discharge is totally normal – and here's why you may see a lot of it
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
An assortment of glasses filled with different-colored drinks
The best and worst drinks for pregnancy
Reviewed by Erin Hinga, M.S., R.D., registered dietitian
woman's hands holding a gold knife and fork over an empty pink plate
"I can't eat anything:" Is appetite loss in pregnancy normal?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A wooden stick dipped in melted pink wax with a pot of wax in the background
Is waxing while pregnant safe?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
Colorful pill box
I forgot to take my prenatal vitamin for a day or two – now what?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
marijuana paraphernalia laying on a table
Marijuana during pregnancy: Is it safe?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
woman holding hand on her head
Yeast infections during pregnancy
Reviewed by Lizellen La Follette, M.D., ob-gyn
A top-down view of paint buckets with pink and blue paint, a tray and a roller
Is painting while pregnant safe?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
woman lying on the couch feeling ill
Fever during pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A woman cleaning a coffee machine in a kitchen
Is it safe to use cleaning products while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman drinking a glass of water
How much water should I drink while pregnant?
Reviewed by Erin Hinga, M.S., R.D., registered dietitian
pregnant woman sitting on toilet
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A woman pressing a hot water bottle to her lower back
Is it safe to use a heating pad while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
pregnant woman sitting on an exercise ball
Gallbladder problems during and after pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman in bath tub
Can you take a bath while pregnant? Yes – and here's how to soak safely
Reviewed by Kristin Cohen, DNP, CNM, WHNP-BC, midwife
A closeup of someone getting their fingernails painted with clear nail polish
Is it safe to get a manicure or pedicure while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
women having fun in a park ride
What activities should I avoid during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
An overhead shot of a woman organizing underwear, socks, shapewear, and bras.
Is it safe to wear shapewear during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman drinking from a water bottle while outdoors
Overheating during pregnancy: How to keep cool
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
Blue mouthwash being poured into a small plastic cup
Is it safe to use mouthwash while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
Acrylic nails with square, white tips and floral stencils
Is it safe to get acrylic nails while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
A pregnant woman carrying a toddler
Is it safe to carry my toddler around when I'm pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
pregnant woman getting COVID swab
What happens if I get COVID while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman sitting on a bed
Getting the flu during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
newborn's head getting measured with measuring tape
Microcephaly in babies
Reviewed by Jennifer Shu, M.D., FAAP, pediatrician
A person throwing soiled cat litter into a trashcan
Is it safe to change your cat's litter box while pregnant?
Reviewed by Jennifer Shu, M.D., FAAP, pediatrician
A woman reclining in a black leather massage chair
Is it safe to use a massage chair while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
A pregnant woman walking outdoors
Is it safe to be on my feet all day while pregnant?
Reviewed by Catherine Cram, M.S., exercise physiologist
city with orange sky and smoke
Is it safe to breathe smoke from fires during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
sad woman looking to the side
What is a phantom pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A woman lying on a tanning bed
Is it safe to use self-tanner, spray tan, or a tanning bed while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A woman getting facial done
Is it safe to get a facial while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
A man and woman carry a loveseat out of a moving van
Is it safe to move furniture while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
A woman being examined for a cosmetic procedure
Can you get Botox while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A person spraying cockroaches with an aerosolized can of bug spray
Is it safe to use bug spray while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman standing near kitchen sink and holding one hand on the neck and the other on back
Toxoplasmosis during pregnancy
Reviewed by Rebecca Yee, M.D., ob-gyn
close up of a woman taking off high-heeled shoes
Is it safe to wear heels while I'm pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A pregnant woman wearing a seat belt
Is it safe to wear a seat belt while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
woman using bug spray
How to avoid mosquito bites while pregnant
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
eight pebbles
Chlamydia during pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman sitting on couch drinking water
UTI (urinary tract infection) during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
female doctor checking woman's belly with stethoscope
Herpes and pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A hair stylist applying dye to client's hair
Can you dye your hair while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Pregnant woman on couch
Your hormone levels during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
pregnant woman getting an arm massage while lying on her side
What is a prenatal massage?
Reviewed by Rebecca Yee, M.D., ob-gyn
smiling woman looking at a pregnancy test
I'm pregnant: What do I do now?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
woman looking at prenatal vitamin in her hand
Prenatal vitamins: Why they're so important
Reviewed by Rebecca Yee, M.D., ob-gyn
A doctor showing a woman an X-ray film
Is it safe to get an X-ray while I'm pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman with rose tattoo on her thigh
Can you get a tattoo while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A woman looking in a mirror and checking out her teeth
Is teeth whitening safe while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A laughing woman in a hot tub
Is it safe to use a hot tub during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
A woman's hand partially covered in gold glitter
What happens if you get fifth disease (parvovirus B19) during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A person's leg with some hair growth
Is laser hair removal safe during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A pregnant woman sitting on a couch with a laptop resting on her thighs
Is it safe to rest your laptop on your belly while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
mosquito on skin
Dengue fever during pregnancy
Reviewed by Jacqueline Dela Merced, M.D., ob-gyn
microscopic view of a bacteria
Trichomoniasis during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
close-up of skin with pink spots with raised bumps
Chickenpox during pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
doctor's hand holding H.P.V. vaccination
Human papillomavirus (HPV) during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman putting out cigarette
Smoking during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
part of text from a book, where gon-or-rhea is highlighted
Gonorrhea during pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A pregnant woman getting dental work done
Is it safe to go to the dentist while pregnant?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
pregnant woman sitting on couch looking at her phone
Is CBD safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
window hiding
Is it possible to be pregnant and not know it?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
green salad in a bowl on a blue tablecloth
What to know about listeria infection (listeriosis) during pregnancy
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
plus-size pregnant woman on a wheat field
Plus size pregnancy: What to know about your health
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
white flower and petals on a light blue background
Should you try collecting colostrum before birth?
Reviewed by Julie Hawksley, R.N., IBCLC, lactation consultant
A pregnant woman refinishing a wooden stool
Is it safe to refinish furniture while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman nursing toddler
Breastfeeding while pregnant
Reviewed by Monica Murphy, RNC, IBCLC, lactation consultant
A woman holding her child, their backs turned to the camera, watching an airplane fly overhead.
Is it safe to fly while I'm pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
a woman's fingers on the clasp of an underwire bra
Is it safe to wear an underwire bra during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman standing in meadow and holding flowers
Chikungunya in pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman and her partner talking to a doctor
Pregnancy after weight-loss surgery
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
drawing blood from patient’s arm
STIs during pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
microscopic view of the human cytomegalovirus
What to know about cytomegalovirus (CMV) during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
Red Round Shapes-Balls Packed In Plastic Bags
Can you donate blood while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman getting acupuncture
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
woman getting blood drawn
Rubella during pregnancy
Reviewed by Rebecca Yee, M.D., ob-gyn
filling the syringe with medicine
Syphilis in pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
mosquito on skin
Zika in pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
vape pens
Vaping and pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
woman on couch talking
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Can Zika affect babies and children?
Reviewed by Kathryn Meier, M.D., M.P.H., pediatrician
Broccoli florets
Broccoli sold at Walmart was just recalled for listeria risk
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
Pregnant woman
Do you need to worry about mpox during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Organic carrots are recalled for E. coli
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
Pregnant woman getting injection
The COVID vaccine and pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
cartoon image of woman on 3-car rollercoaster
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Activities to avoid during pregnancy
Reviewed by Catherine Cram, M.S., exercise physiologist
woman on couch talking
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How to stay hydrated during pregnancy
Reviewed by Jeannette Lager, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn
woman talking
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Is it safe to use insect repellents?
woman talking in front of book case
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How can I protect myself from mosquitoes?
Dr. Sasha Hakman
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How much should you worry about listeria during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Darria Long, M.D. , emergency physician
Darria Long and the text "The correct way to wear a seatbelt while pregnant"
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How to wear a seatbelt during pregnancy
Reviewed by Darria Long, M.D. , emergency physician
Liz Donner cleaning her stove and the text "Is it safe to use cleaning products while pregnant"
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Is it safe to use cleaning products while pregnant?
Reviewed by Liz Donner, M.D., pediatric hospitalist
Layan Alrahmani and the text "3 safety tips for flying while pregnant"
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Safety tips for flying while pregnant
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Dr. Darria Long
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Tips to lower your risk of falling during pregnancy
Reviewed by Darria Long, M.D. , emergency physician
Layan Alrahmani and the text "What is lightning crotch anyway?"
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What is lightning crotch?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Layan Alrahmani and the text "Why your belly might feel hard during pregnancy"
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Why your belly might feel hard during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
A wintery scene, snow on trees
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Winter activities to avoid during pregnancy

High Risk Pregnancy

pregnant woman with a cup of water
Anemia in pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman taking her blood pressure
Preeclampsia: Signs, causes, risk factors, and treatment
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant women getting ultrasound
What happens if I have fibroids during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
woman talking to her doctor
Hyperthyroidism in pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Woman’s hands with string
Are mental breakdowns normal during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Sipra Laddha, M.D., perinatal psychiatrist
woman getting a blood draw
What to know about low platelets during pregnancy (gestational thrombocytopenia)
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman with partner shaking hands with doctor
What is a maternal-fetal medicine doctor (MFM)?
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
pregnant woman looking out the window
How to manage depression during pregnancy
Reviewed by Jacqueline Dela Merced, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman lying in her partner's lap
How to cope with anxiety during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sipra Laddha, M.D., perinatal psychiatrist
pregnant woman reading and eating in bed
Bed rest during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
pregnant woman sitting on a bed
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
woman holding an insulin syringe
Gestational diabetes
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
doctor administering an injection to a woman
Hepatitis B in pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
doctor examining woman's glands
Hypothyroidism in pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
blood sample in a test tube, with hiv positive text written on a marker
HIV/AIDS during pregnancy
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman touching her belly in the doctor’s office while listening what he has to say
Lupus and pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
fetal monitoring in hospital
Sickle cell disease and pregnancy
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
pregnant woman touching her belly with both hands
What is a high-risk pregnancy?
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Mother breastfeeding baby
Sickle cell disease and breastfeeding
Reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
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Pregnant woman looking at body
8 ways to take care of your mental health during pregnancy – and why it’s so important
Reviewed by Sipra Laddha, M.D., perinatal psychiatrist
Terri Huggins pregnant
I spent my pregnancy anxious about dying – Black women deserve so much better
Reviewed by Linda Jones , doula
Dr. Amanda Williams
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Signs of ectopic pregnancy
Reviewed by Amanda Williams, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn

Vaccines

Grandma smiling after getting vaccinated
Vaccines for grandparents and parents of newborns
Reviewed by Jennifer Shu, M.D., FAAP, pediatrician
pregnant woman with bandage from vaccine
Can COVID or the COVID vaccine cause miscarriage?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
patient getting a vaccine
Getting the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy
Reviewed by Dawn Rosenberg, M.D., pediatrician
pregnant woman getting a vaccine
Is it safe to get the flu shot during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
Pregnant woman getting a vaccine
Getting the RSV vaccine during pregnancy
Reviewed by Chandani DeZure, M.D., FAAP, pediatric hospitalist
Women getting covid vaccine
No, the COVID vaccine doesn't cause infertility
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
various plls
What you should know about pregnancy exposure registries
By Christine Mattheis
syringe and bandage on tray
Is it safe to get vaccinated during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
Dr. Sasha Hakman
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2 shots you need during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sasha Hakman, M.D., M.S., ob-gyn

Weight Gain

an empty blue dinner plate with a fork on it
Why am I so hungry? How to handle an increased appetite in pregnancy
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
pregnant woman weighing herself on scale in bathroom
Wondering about typical pregnancy weight gain? Here's what to expect
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman sitting on bench
Can you lose weight while pregnant?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
a pregnant woman standing in a kitchen, smiling and holding her belly
Is it normal to look more pregnant than I am?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
A woman feeling her small pregnant bump
Is my small baby bump normal?
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
pregnant woman walking her dog
How to avoid gaining too much weight during pregnancy
Reviewed by Samantha Schleiger, RDN, CD, CLT, IFNCP, nutritionist
pregnant woman sitting on bench looking out
Eating disorders and pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman talking
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Weight gain and pregnancy
Reviewed by Jeannette Lager, M.D., MPH, ob-gyn
Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator
Reviewed by Jane van Dis, M.D., ob-gyn

Complications

Subchorionic hematoma bleeding
What does it mean if you get a subchorionic hematoma while pregnant?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman with hand on belly looking off into the distance
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): What it means for your baby
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman holding her belly
Ovarian cysts during pregnancy
Reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife
worried pregnant woman looking away
Leaking amniotic fluid (premature rupture of membranes)
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
doctor performing an ultrasound on a pregnant womans stomach
Low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios)
Reviewed by Lizellen La Follette, M.D., ob-gyn
Retroverted uterus
Will having a retroverted or tilted uterus affect your pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman lying on her side
Low progesterone during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
doctor holding ultrasound probe
Too much amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios)
Reviewed by Lizellen La Follette, M.D., ob-gyn
illustration of fetus, placenta, and umbilical cord
What is velamentous cord insertion? Here's the lowdown on a rare but potentially troublesome pregnancy condition
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
illustration showing an ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy
Reviewed by Lizellen La Follette, M.D., ob-gyn
medical illustration showing 3 different placenta positions in the womb
Placenta previa: Symptoms, complications, and treatment
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman's hands using a device to check her blood sugar
9 pregnancy complications to be aware of
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant woman sitting in front of a doctor and touching her belly
What is cervical insufficiency (incompetent cervix)?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
medical illustration of placental abruption with internal and external bleeding
Placental abruption
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
medical illustration of placenta accreta, increta, and percreta
What is placenta accreta?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
AFE survivor
Nurse Hailey died from a rare pregnancy complication – I experienced the same nightmare condition
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
an illustration of cord prolapse during pregnancy
Cord prolapse during pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
Pregnant woman in pain leaning on couch
Preterm labor
Reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn
woman sitting on edge of hospital bed
I thought my postpartum bleeding was normal. Turns out, I had a retained placenta
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
pregnant women in distress
HELLP syndrome in pregnancy
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM

Latest in health & safety

AFE survivor
Nurse Hailey died from a rare pregnancy complication – I experienced the same nightmare condition
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM
woman in bath tub
Can you take a bath while pregnant? Yes – and here's how to soak safely
Reviewed by Kristin Cohen, DNP, CNM, WHNP-BC, midwife
Dayquil medicine in measuring cup
Can you take Dayquil while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Reviewed by Michelle Rockwell
woman's hand holding an orange glucola drink next to a gloved hand holding a blood sample
Pregnant moms are skipping the glucose test ‒ but is that safe?
Reviewed by Tarun Jain, M.D., reproductive endocrinology and infertility physician
doctor wearing scrubs and a hair net in the hospital tying on a surgical mask
You don't really need to bring a hospital bag, and 5 other secrets your OB didn't tell you
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
Nyquil being poured into a dosage cup
Can you take Nyquil while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
White pills spilling out of white bottle
Why is it okay to take baby aspirin but not regular aspirin during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Shannon Smith, M.D., FACOG, ob-gyn
pregnant woman going over a medical chart with her physician
What happens if you have group B strep during pregnancy?
Reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn, MFM

Community

  • May 2024 Birth Club
    Spinach recall
    By McMama925
    https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/fresh-express-announces-recall-limited-spinach-products-due-possible-health-risk
    12-19-23
    Number of comments0
    no reactions
    0
  • August 2023 Birth Club
    Postpartum Anxiety
    By Amyers14
    Is anyone else dealing with PPA? I am medicated for it and it’s been helpful but I do still find myself getting overwhelmed and worried over my baby’s health/safety. I had an extremely traumatic birth experience and I think my own health struggles have caused me to worry even more about my baby.
    10-28-23 by Amyers14
    Number of comments6
    no reactions
    0
  • Pregnancy
    IUGR
    By MLyndsey93
    I had a growth scan yesterday because the baby is measuring smaller than where she should be. I'm 23 weeks and she is measuring 10 days behind. There is an issue with my placenta, causing the doppler reading to be elevated. I'm going for weekly scans/monitoring. But I'm scared. On the after visit su
    07-18-24
    Number of comments0
    no reactions
    0
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