I was shopping in my scrubs after work as I often/ almost always do and I had an expectant Dad come up to me and ask me if I knew where he could get a few of his pregnancy questions answered. This touched me so much that I decided to answer some baby q’s on health in heels. So here is the first installment of pregnancy questions answered.

1.     What you should expect at your first check up? –  Expect to be nervous so bring your partner or a friend that makes you feel good! Expect it to be long. There will be a lengthy period going over everything about you including your family, social history as well as your medical history , so be prepared for some very personal questions but remember to be honest! Nobody Is judging you there but only there to help. There will be a blood and urine test, possibly a pap smear, a general health check, pelvic exam and probably an ultrasound. The OB will also want to discuss your lifestyle and dietary habits to see if any changes need to be implemented for baby’s health. Remember to be honest! And there is no judgement only help to be given if needed.

2.     Can you continue to workout during pregnancy? Yes, exercise is extremely important in pregnancy. Safe exercise usually has to do with moderate exercise and ones that you have already been doing. Now is not the time to learn something new. It also depends on a woman’s health condition and trimester. Consult with your doctor but usually, brisk walking, yoga, swimming and dancing are safe. CDC recommends that pregnant women get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (like brisk walking) every week. That breaks down to 30 min, five times a week. Staying active during pregnancy can reduce back pain, ease constipation, lower risk of diabetes, preeclampsia and cesarean delivery, according to ACOG. Contact sports and activities with shaking or jumping movements and the potential to fall aren’t recommended.

3.     Do you have to take vitamins? Yes, all those vitamins help grow a new person inside of you. To ensure that the baby gets enough of everything it needs she should take additional calcium, folic acid , and iron.  The exact supplements to take should be discussed with an OB-GYN because different women may require different formulations.

4.     How should I eat during pregnancy? Don’t eat for two or you will become 5 people. Pregnancy is not the time for dieting but it is not the time to eat whatever you want in whatever quantities. So put that 3rd chocolate bar down! Healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and lean protein but in moderation.

5.  Can I wear High heels? Have to answer this one just based on the show name, right! In the early stages of pregnancy, it is totally fine, if you are already used to wearing them. I support a pregnant woman’s right to feel beautiful, stylish and sexy! However, later in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, heels can become hard on the back, just aren’t comfortable and may increase the risk of falling. So then ditch the heels for some stylish flats!

Thanks for joining me today on Health in Heels, I hope this video was useful. Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and feel free to ask me a question or suggest a topic below in the comments. And for more information about the health and wellness services I offer, you can go to OceanOasisDaySpa.com

Until next time, This is Dr. Lisa reminding you to Be Well and Be Fabulous!