Routine Antenatal Visit 18

Regular antenatal care is a key component of a healthy pregnancy and provides an opportunity to receive advice, information and support, while engaging in shared decision making about your  pregnancy that is designed to suit your individual pregnancy needs.

KEY POINTS

Antenatal care should be woman centred acknowledging pregnancy is a normal life event for most.

Antenatal care improves pregnancy outcomes for both mother and baby by recognising potential problems in pregnancy early.

The range of routine antenatal care visits range from 7 – 12 throughout the course of pregnancy with the average being around 10 visits.

During each visit your midwife or doctor will discuss screening test and arrange these as required.

It’s good if your partner, a friend or a family member can go with you to antenatal appointments.

Antenatal appointments keep track of your health and your baby’s health and are a great time to ask questions, discuss concerns and get health and lifestyle support throughout your pregnancy.  All antenatal visits require a directed clinical assessment at each visit, with a focus on general wellbeing and early diagnosis of pregnancy complications.

The clinical assessment should include a –

  • blood pressure check
  • urine dip stick, usually you do this yourself
  • weight and how you can achieve a healthy weight gain
  • measure your tummy, otherwise called a symphysis-fundal height (SFH) measurement
  • listen to your baby’s heartbeat using a handheld doppler, this is always lovely to hear
  • and ask about your baby’s movements from approximately 20 weeks of pregnancy onwards.

The midwife or doctor may also

Many women attend antenatal visits every 4-6 weeks until 28 weeks of pregnancy, then every 2-3 weeks until 36 weeks of pregnancy. After this, you’ll probably have weekly or fortnightly visits until birth.  The number and timing of pregnancy appointments could be more or less than this, depending on your health and your baby’s health. For example, if you have a high-risk pregnancy you might have more pregnancy appointments. Your midwife or doctor will talk with you about the appointments you need and why.

Having access to maternity care that is culturally appropriate and personally acceptable is important throughout antenatal care. Your midwife or doctor will ideally provide informed choice, and where possible include you in both the planning and monitoring of your pregnancy care.

Choice in pregnancy care is important and your midwife or doctor will provide access to appropriate information about the benefits and potential risks of each and every option of your pregnancy care as it applies to yours and your baby’s individual needs at each antenatal visit appointment. Be sure to ask questions at each visit too.

 

Ultrasounds in Early Pregnancy

Ultrasounds in early pregnancy can be offered to confirm and accurately date a pregnancy.

***Key Points***

Ultrasounds in pregnancy and any antenatal screening tests are offered to all women but the choice is is your.

Your GP, Midwife or doctor will support and your family to make informed, independent decisions about what tests you have in pregnancy.

***Key Points***

***What is an ultrasound scan?***

What is an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan is a procedure that uses sound waves to create an image or picture of your baby. An ultrasound in pregnancy is carried out by an obstetrician or a specialised health professional such as ultrasonographer. During the scan, gel is placed on your abdomen and a probe called a transducer is placed against your skin. Pulses of sound waves create echoes that are turned into images which you can view on a monitor.

Sometimes your doctor may suggest a transvaginal ultrasound to get better view of your baby because during this ultrasound the probe is closer to your uterus. In this case, you will be covered with a sheet while the probe is inserted into your vagina and you will view the images of your baby on a monitor.

Having an ultrasound is usually a pain free procedure for you and your baby and there is no research to suggest an ultrasound increases the likelihood of a miscarriage when carried out in early labour.

***What is an ultrasound scan?***

***What does an ultrasounds check?***

Ultrasounds are a simple and easy way to check how your pregnancy is progressing, and to provide helpful information on how your baby is developing. Generally they used for the following

  • To confirm your pregnancy and check the number of babies
  • To work out the age of your baby (dating scan)
  • To check your baby’s growth and physical development
  • To check your baby’s position in your uterus
  • To check the position of your placenta and to check your cervix
  • To monitor your placenta’s health and blood flow through the placenta
  • To check the amniotic fluid around your baby

What routine scans might be offered during pregnancy?

***What does an ultrasounds check?***

Your doctor or midwife will discuss the ultrasounds that are recommended and available in pregnancy. They will discuss the reasons they are recommending any procedure, ultrasound or screening test but the choice is yours.

These are

***Dating scan***

This ultrasound is usually offered in early pregnancy around 7-9 weeks of pregnancy. This scan can date your pregnancy and estimate your baby’s due date. This may be especially important if you are unsure of your last menstrual period date.

An early dating scan can also confirm how many babies you are carrying, and check that your baby is growing in the uterus and not in one of the fallopian tubes, known as an ectopic pregnancy.

***Dating scan***

***Nuchal translucency***

This ultrasound is offered  between 11 weeks, 3 days and 13 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy.

During a nuchal translucency scan a measurement is taken of your  baby’s nuchal translucency — a fluid-filled space behind your baby’s neck.

Your nuchal translucency scan results can be combined with a blood test, (PAPP-A)  usually done in weeks 10 to 12 of pregnancy, to form a ‘combined first-trimester screen’, or CFTS. The combination of this blood test and the ultrasound results can give a more accurate estimate of your risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality such as Downs Syndrome.

This result will not give you a definitive answer but it will provide a report that give a low risk or a high risk of having a baby with Downs Syndrome or risk of other chromosomal abnormality.

The chances of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality such as Downs Syndrome are greater the older you are when you get pregnant. However, anyone can have a baby with chromosomal abnormalities irrespective of age so screening is offered to everyone, but the decision to have the scan or tests is yours.

An alternative is to consider the Non Invasive Prenatal screening (NIPT) test. This is also known as the cell-free DNA testing (cfDNA) and is another option for antenatal screening test for chromosomal abnormalities. It is more accurate than a nuchal translucency scan or the combined screening test but it can be more expensive as in Australia this is not funded by Medicare.

Some women choose not to have any tests or decide to have a diagnostic test instead such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis which can give them more definite information about their baby’s health. We have a separate content page about these tests.

***Nuchal translucency***

***Morphology scan***

A morphology scan (also known as a ‘fetal anomaly scan’) is an ultrasound offered between 18 and 20 weeks of your pregnancy. This scan check for major physical abnormalities in your baby body organs.

This will check your baby’s heart rate and rhythm, check the location and function of your placenta and can reveal the sex of your baby if you wish to know.

***Morphology scan***

***Other scans***

For some women your midwife or doctor may recommend a third trimester ultrasound scan to assess your baby’s wellbeing and growth and the location and function of your placenta and cervix.

Do I need to have ultrasound scans?

Your doctor is likely to recommend you have one or more ultrasound scans during your pregnancy so they can check how your baby is developing, but you’re still free to choose whether or not you have the scan.

***Other scans***

Talk to your doctor or midwife about tests and scans to understand why they might be offered to you.

Resources

https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Prenatal-Screening-and-Diagnostic-Testing-for-Fetal-Chromosomal-and-Genetic-Conditions.pdf

Antenatal Screening

Genetic and chromosomal screening and diagnostic testing in pregnancy

***Key Points***

Every baby has a small chance of being born with a chromosomal or genetic condition.

Testing during pregnancy for some of these conditions is called prenatal or antenatal screening.

These tests are offered to all women but it is your choice whether to have any prenatal screening tests.

You should only consent to  testing if you understand what the test is for and what the results are able to tell you.

While most women will have a healthy baby, in approximately 1 in 25 pregnancies which is about 4% a baby will be diagnosed with a condition that may require specialised medical attention.

These conditions include physical and intellectual development and range from mild to severe.

There are two groups of tests you can opt for in pregnancy

  • Screening tests
  • Diagnostic tests.

***Key Points***

***Screening tests***

Screening tests: give an estimate or a risk of the chance that your baby is affected by a certain condition.

They involve taking a blood sample from your arm and an ultrasound and there is no risk of miscarriage.

Although many screening test are very sensitive they do not give you a definitive answer.

They tell you whether you have an increased chance of having a baby with a specific genetic condition.

If a screening test shows a high chance – then a diagnostic test is usually offered.

Examples of screening tests:

  • Non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT)
  • Combines First Trimester screening (CFTS)
  • Second trimester maternal serum screening (2TMSS)
  • Nuchal translucency ultrasound (NT scan)

***Screening tests***

***Diagnostic tests***

Diagnostic tests: are accurate tests that give a definite yes/no answer as to whether a pregnancy has a condition or not.

Diagnostic are commonly performed on samples of the placenta or amniotic fluid.

Examples

  • Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
  • Amniocentesis

You can have a screening test and go onto have a diagnostic test if you wish.

***Diagnostic tests***

***Its a personal choice***

It a personal choice

Screening and diagnostic tests are voluntary and a personal choice.

Some women and families want to know in early pregnancy if their baby has a specific medial issue or chromosomal condition.

Some women would like to know as they would end the pregnancy.

Other women would like to know as they would like to be practically and emotionally prepared before their baby’s birth.

While some women opt not to have any testing as this would not impact their choices.

***Its a personal choice***

***What is screened for?***

What can be screened for?

The most common chromosomal cause of intellectual disability in children and adults is Down syndrome. This condition occurs when a baby has three copies of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21), instead of the usual two copies.

The chance if having a baby with down Syndrome increases with age. Down Syndrome occurs approximately 1 in 800 babies so this screening test is available to all women in Australia.

Other chromosomal conditions that may be screened for with the test are Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18) and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). These conditions can have serious impact and increase the likelihood of pregnancy loss, or disability of death on a newborn baby with this genetic condition.

***What is screened for?***

***The NIPT Test***

Non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT)

  • Is a screening test
  • Offered between 10-16 weeks of pregnancy

During pregnancy, your baby’s placenta releases DNA into your blood stream.

The NIPT test is a simple blood test that analyses the DNA in your blood sample to detect chromosome conditions in the baby.

NIPT is the most accurate test for Down syndrome, and it can also test for many other chromosomal conditions. It is available from 10 weeks onwards.

The test is offered at private centres in Australia, not currently offered through Medicare and the cost varies where the test is performed but currently involves an out of pocket cost of between $350-$500

***The NIPT Test***

***Combined First trimester screening***

Combined First Trimester screening (CFTS)

Is a screening test
Offered between 9-13 weeks

This screening test involves an ultrasound between 11 – 13 weeks of pregnancy and a blood test between 10 -13 weeks of pregnancy. The ultrasound takes a measurement of the back of the baby’s neck (nuchal translucency) and is combined with the results of the blood test and your age to estimate the chance or risk of the baby having Down syndrome.

The NIPT test is also screening for  Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18, patau Sndrome (Trisomy 13) and turner Syndrome.

This test will predict approximately 85–90% of babies with Down syndrome, and may detect an increased risk of a range of other less-common chromosomal conditions. The ultrasound can also detect major structural conditions in your baby. There is some Medicare funding for this test, but usually involve some out-of-pocket costs to you ($100-$280).

***Combined First trimester screening***

***2nd trimester maternal serum screening***

Second trimester maternal serum screening (2TMSS)

  • Is a screening test
  • Offered between 14 – 20 weeks, best done between 15-17 weeks

This is a test offered to women in the second trimester of pregnancy to estimate the risk of their baby having Down syndrome.

This involves a blood test performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.

It can detect approximately 75% of pregnancies with Down syndrome. It will also provide a risk of having a baby with Edwards syndrome and neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

Second trimester serum screening costs less than other tests,  but is also less accurate than other screening tests

***2nd trimester maternal serum screening***

***Nuchal translucency ultrasound***

Nuchal translucency ultrasound (NT scan)

  • Is a screening test
  • Offered 11 – 13 weeks

The NT scan is an ultrasound scan that can also confirm your due date, identify if you’re carrying twins or confirm if a miscarriage has occurred.

The NT scan is often combined with a blood test as part of combined first trimester screening. It is also recommended to have this scan if you’re having non-invasive prenatal testing. The cost of a NT scan will vary depending on the provider

***Nuchal translucency ultrasound***

***Chorionic villus sampling***

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

  • Is a diagnostic test
  • Offered at 11 – 13 weeks

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is a medical procedure that samples a small amount of the placenta to confirm if your baby has a genetic disorder or chromosome condition.. It is usually performed at 11-13 weeks of pregnancy. CVS is usually done with a needle inserted through the woman’s abdomen (‘transabdominal’ CVS). Less commonly, a CVS can be performed through the vagina and the cervix (‘transcervical’ CVS).

A CVS is a procedure performed by a specialist doctor using ultrasound assistance. For a transabdominal CVS, the doctor cleans the skin on your abdomen with antiseptic. Local anaesthetic is injected to numb the skin before the CVS needle is inserted.

The ultrasound is used to guide the CVS needle safely through the skin into the placenta, avoiding any contact with the baby. The needle is only inside the womb for a minute or two. The pain from a CVS needle is similar to having a blood test from your arm, but there may be cramping, period-like pain during the procedure as well. For the vast majority of women, local anaesthetic is all that is required for the procedure.

There is a small risk of miscarriage during any pregnancy and having a CVS may increase the overall risk. Having a CVS may slightly increase your risk of miscarriage by 1 in 300 or less (< 0.3%). Your doctor should fully explain the CVS to you and obtain your written consent before performing the procedure.

You may consider a CVS if

  • your screening test showed a high-risk result
  • you have already had a child with a genetic or chromosomal condition
  • you are over 37 years of age
  • You or your partner are carriers of a particular condition and you would like to find out if this affects your baby
  • you would like greater certainty about a diagnosis of Down syndrome or some other genetic condition

***Chorionic villus sampling***

***Amniocentesis***

Amniocentesis (amnio)

  • Is a Diagnostic test
  • Is offered at 15 – 21 weeks

An amniocentesis is a medical procedure to sample the fluid around the baby in the uterus (womb). It can be performed after 15 weeks of pregnancy and is a diagnostic test. An amniocentesis will confirm if your baby has a genetic or chromosome condition. The fluid is collected by a specialist doctor using a needle inserted through your abdomen. Ultrasound is used to guide the amniocentesis needle safely through the skin into a pocket of fluid inside the uterus, avoiding any needle contact with the baby. The procedure only takes a few minutes.

A small amount of fluid (about 1-2 teaspoons) is collected  through the needle into a syringe and then transferred into a tube for laboratory testing. The needle only stays inside the uterus for a minute or two. There is no anaesthetic required, although you will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the skin and you will remain awake during the whole procedure.

There is a small risk of miscarriage during any pregnancy and having an amniocentesis may increase the overall risk. Having an amniocentesis may slightly increase your risk of miscarriage by 1 in 300.

Your doctor should fully explain the amniocentesis to you and obtain your written consent before performing the procedure.

You may experience some mild discomfort after the procedure. If you are a negative blood group, an anti-D injection will be given with consent after the procedure.

You may consider an amniocentesis if you

  • your screening test showed a high-risk result
  • you have already had a child with a genetic or chromosomal condition
  • you are over 37 years of age
  • You or your partner are carriers of a particular condition and you would like to find out if this affects your baby
  • you would like greater certainty about a diagnosis of Down syndrome or some other genetic condition

***Amniocentesis***

***Ask yourself***

  • If I choose not to proceed with screening am I comfortable knowing there is a small chance my baby may have a genetic or chromosomal condition?
  • Is there any information about my baby that may mean I would end my pregnancy?
  • Do I know what is being screened for in pregnancy?
  • Do I understand what high and low risk means?
  • If a screening test comes back as high risk, will I proceed with a diagnostic test?
  • If a diagnostic test confirms a diagnosis, what would I do?

***Ask yourself***

 

Resources

https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Prenatal-Screening-for-Chromosomal-and-Genetic-Conditions.pdf

https://www.mcri.edu.au/research/projects/prenatal-screening-diagnosis-fetal-chromosome-conditions

https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Amniocentesis.pdf

 

 

Your Booking Visit

The booking in visit is usually the first visit to the hospital or private obstetric practice or aboriginal health center.

 

***Key Points***

It is likely to take place around 14-18 weeks, although may occur earlier if you are seeing a private specialist or have any concerns in early pregnancy.

During this visit the Midwife or Doctor will take a comprehensive history, they will carry out a physical assessment and health testing.

They will seek your thoughts, preference and views and provide an opportunity to discuss issues or ask questions.

***Key Points***

***What to bring***

You will likely have seen your GP prior to this visit. Don’t forget to take along with you any blood test results or scan results that you may have. Your Midwife will be able to discuss any for these results with you.

The most important thing to bring are any questions you may have

This first appointment is a great opportunity to discuss the best approach for your care throughout pregnancy.

At a public hospital or health facility the midwife will discuss with you the options of care provider depending on your individual needs. These may include an Obstetric team, Midwife or shared care with your GP.

However, this may also include a wider team of physiotherapists or dieticians or referral to specialised clinics such as the multiple birth clinic depending on your circumstances.

***What to bring***

***The booking visit***

Although it may seem a lot of questions, the information your Midwife or Doctor gathers will help set you up with the care you need throughout your pregnancy and in preparation for the birth of your baby

The will include

  • Details about this current pregnancy
  • Previous medical history – such as cervical smear tests, immunisations and any health issues such as asthma or diabetes
  • Previous surgical history
  • Previous obstetric history – previous experience of pregnancy and birth
  • Your current nutrition – for example are you vegetarian?
  • Current physical activity – how physically active were you before pregnancy and now?
  • Smoking, alcohol and substance use
  • Any medications you are taking, including vitamins
  • Expectations for your pregnancy – ie cultural impacts, partner/family involvement, infant feeding options etc

The Midwife will ask you to complete a series of screening tools

You can view these in the app prior to the visit.

  • Alcohol screening
  • Tobacco screening
  • Substance use screening

The Midwife/Doctor will ask

  • About you emotional health and wellbeing.
  • Any history of mental illness, depression, anxiety or other
  • You can answer emotional wellbeing questions here prior to the appointment
  • If you feel safe at home, any experience of domestic violence or financial abuse

The Midwife/Doctor will carry out a physical assessment

  • Measure your blood pressure
  • Measure your height and weight and BMI
  • Ask for a urine sample to test

The Midwife/Doctor will discuss with you

  • The blood results you had previously taken
  • If you are Rh-negative, discuss Rh D immunoglobulin (anti-D)
  • Check the results of your ultrasound and first trimester screening tests
  • Any risk factors identified and need for further investigations or referral
  • Advise on options for antenatal care going forward
  • Discuss antenatal education options available
  • Ensure you have a patient-held pregnancy record and findings are entered.
  • You antenatal care should be collaboratively planned with you and based on your individual needs.

    You should have the opportunity to share your expectations and experiences and discuss any concerns you have.

***The booking visit***

 

Food Safety in Pregnancy

Preventing foodborne illnesses and protecting yourself and you baby from other food risks during pregnancy is extremely important.

***Key Points***

Some types of food poisoning organisms can cause problems during pregnancy.

The risk can be minimised by good hygiene and food handling practices and avoiding high risk foods.

***Key Points***

***Listeria***

Listeria bacteria can contaminate food and cause listeriosis which is a flu-like infection.

In pregnancy this infection can be passed on to the baby and can cause miscarriage, stillbirth or premature birth.

Listeria infection is not a common problem and the risk can be reduced by following these tips:

  • Eat freshly prepared foods where possible.
  • Avoid refrigerated, ready to eat foods that may have been stored for long periods.
  • Ensure good hygiene and clean utensils when preparing food.
  • Thoroughly wash raw vegetables and fruit.
  • Avoid foods such as pate, cold cooked chicken and deli meats such as ham and salami unless reheated to high temperature e.g., on a pizza.
  • Avoid coleslaws, salads and fruit salads unless you are sure they have been freshly prepared.
  • Avoid soft cheeses (e.g., brie, camembert, ricotta, feta, blue cheese) soft serve ice-cream and unpasteurised dairy products. Soft cheeses in cooked dishes are safe.
  • Avoid uncooked or smoked seafood and pre-cooked prawns. Freshly cooked seafood and canned seafood is safe.
  • Listeria is killed by thoroughly cooking food. Reheat foods to steaming hot.

***Listeria***

***Toxoplasmosis***

Toxoplasmosis is an infection that can cause brain and eye damage in the baby. It can be carried by raw meat and cats’ faeces.

Thoroughly cook meat, wash vegetables, wear rubber gloves if handling cat litter and wash hands after gardening or handling pets.

Good food handling practices

  • Wash hands before preparing foods or eating
  • Use separate, clean chopping boards to prevent cross contamination of raw and cooked foods
  • Make sure cooked foods are thoroughly cooked
  • Don’t leave foods to cool too long on the bench. Put them in the fridge as soon as they stop steaming
  • Don’t eat food that is meant to be in the fridge if it has been left out for more than 2 hours
  • Eat leftover foods within 24 hours and reheat foods to ‘steaming’ hot
  • Keep the fridge clean and below 5 degrees
  • Cover stored foods
  • Thaw frozen food in fridge or microwave, not at room temperature
  • Store raw meat below other foods so that there is no chance that it will drip onto them.
  • Store eggs in the fridge.• Follow best before and use by dates and storage instructions. If in doubt throw it out.

***Toxoplasmosis***

***Salmonella***

Salmonella

Pregnant women are not at an increased risk of contracting salmonellosis, but in rare cases it may trigger miscarriage.

Salmonella can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, fever and headache.

It’s advisable to avoid foods that contain raw egg and always cook meat, chicken and eggs thoroughly.

It is recommended that you do not eat any type of sprout including alfalfa sprouts, broccoli sprouts, onion sprouts, sunflower sprouts, clover sprouts, radish sprouts, snowpea sprouts, mung beans and soybean sprouts, whether raw or lightly cooked due to a risk of contamination.

***Salmonella***

Resources

Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

There are many symptoms of early pregnancy that you may experience.

***Key Points***

 You may experience any of the following symptoms in early pregnancy

Most will improve as the pregnancy progresses but seek help from your midwife or doctor if you are concerned.

  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness or feeling faint
  • Tender Breasts
  • Changes to your skin
  • Changes to your hair
  • Needing to pass urine more often
  • Constipation
  • Haemorrhoids
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Leg cramps
  • Backache

***Key Points***

***Nausea and vomiting***

Most pregnant women experience some degree of nausea between 5 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. Many women report the nausea is at its worst at around 9 weeks. It is often referred to morning sickness, however for it may be present throughout the day or night.

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe – although for most women this will reduce dramatically by 18 weeks for a small number of women the nausea can continue until your baby is born

Although the cause of nausea is not clear, hormone levels and slowed emptying of the stomach can likely to contribute.

The following suggestions may help reduce symptoms and avoid dehydration:

  • Avoid being very hungry or having an empty stomach – eat small meals or snacks more often.
  • Have a packet of dry biscuits by the bed to snack on when you wake before getting up.
  • Eat small meals frequently and have foods that are high in protein such as nuts or cheese.
  • Avoid spicy or fatty foods
  • Sip cold, clear fluids such as water, mineral water or
  • Try drinking sliced ginger in water, ginger or peppermint tea or lemon slices in hot or cold water.
  • Avoid strong smells such as greasy, spicy or fatty foods, stuffy rooms or strong odours such as perfume, chemicals, coffee, food or smoke.
  • Rest when you can to avoid being over tired
  • If pregnancy multivitamins or iron makes the nausea worse, try taking them at night and avoid taking them without food.
  • Vitamin B6 supplements (pyridoxine) are proven to be helpful for nausea.. Green leafy vegetables, bananas, tuna and chicken are natural food sources of Vitamin B6.

 

When should I call my midwife or doctor?

If the nausea or vomiting is causing you significant distress, or you are unable to drink small amounts of fluids on an ongoing basis or if you think you are developing hyperemesis gravidarum please call your pregnancy care provider for advice.

Other signs to be aware of:

  • Dramatic weight loss
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Very dark urine
  • Vomit that contains blood

There are a range of medications that are safe to use in pregnancy and have been shown to be useful in treating persistent nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Please talk to your pregnancy care provider about your options.

***Nausea and vomiting***

***Tiredness***

It is common to feel an overwhelming sense of tiredness during pregnancy, often occurring in early pregnancy.

Being tired and exhausted can affect your mood. Look after yourself emotionally as this is a tough period during pregnancy, especially if it is early and you have not shared your pregnancy with friends or family.

If you are feeling experiencing nausea tiredness can make this worse. Be reassured this will not affect your baby but it makes work and life much more difficulty to cope with.

The only option is to rest as much as you can. Take time out to nap in the day if possible and accept help from family and friends. Your body is doing the amazing work of growing and nurturing a baby, you need to care for yourself during this time.

***Tiredness***

***Tender breasts***

Increased hormone production may make your breasts unusually sensitive from early in poregnancy.

Your breasts will feel fuller and heavier, and you will likely increase a  cup size or two.

Wearing a more supportive bra or a sports bra can help with the discomfort.

***Tender breasts***

***Dizziness***

Normal circulatory changes in early pregnancy may result in your feeling dizzy or faint. This is because pregnancy affects your circulation, impacting oxygen levels which makes you feel dizzy or faint.

Try to avoid long periods of standing and when you stand from sitting do so slowly. If you feel dizzy while standing, sit or lie down. Stay hydrated and wear cool loose clothing to avoid over heating as this may  increase the likeliness of feeling faint.

Tips to help with dizziness or feeling faint

  • get up slowly after sitting or lying down.
  • If you feel faint lie down on your side.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Eat regularly to keep your blood sugar levels stable.

If dizziness persists or is occurring frequently contact your midwife or doctor for advice.

***Dizziness***

***Passing urine more often***

 Needing to go to the toilet more often during your pregnancy is normal and is caused by the hormonal and physical changes occurring in your body during pregnancy.

During early pregnancy,  hormonal changes increase the frequency with which you need to use the toilet and pass urine. This may also be due to weakened pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy. You can help by practicing your pelvic floor exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.

You should speak to your Midwife or Doctor if you experience burning or stinging when passing urine or if there is an offensive smell when you pass urine.

 

If you are experiencing incontinence pregnancy such as a leakage of urine when they cough, laugh or sneeze, or just get up from a sitting position you should let your midwife or doctor know.

If your pelvic floor muscles are weakened then the internal organs are less well-supported, which can lead to difficulty controlling a leak of urine and at time faeces.

You may benefit from a consultation with a women’s health physiotherapist.

***Passing urine more often***

***Skin changes***

Pregnancy hormones can change the tone and colour of your skin. The extra blood circulating around your body can cause your skin to “glow” or feel flushed.

For some women, the pregnancy hormones may cause acne, pimples or dry reddened patches. Areas of skin that may get darker during pregnancy including the area around your nipples, the genitalia, the inner sides of thighs and armpits.

Chloasma is a specific form of pigmentation also referred to as the “mask of pregnancy” and appears as brown patches on the bridge of the nose, cheeks and neck. Some dark-skinned women develop patches of paler skin on the face and neck. These patches will begin to fade after the baby is born.

Some women develop a dark line running down the centre of their stomach, called a Linea nigra.

Sunlight intensifies areas of skin that are already pigmented and many women find that they tan more easily during pregnancy. Even after birth the deeper pigmented skin will remain darker for sometime, but will gradually fade and disappear.

Stretch marks may also develop in pregnancy, most commonly in the third trimester of pregnancy. These are most commonly found on the stomach or breasts and will fad over time after pregnancy.

***Skin changes***

***Hair changes***

Hormonal changes in pregnancy may result in your hair becoming thicker

Many women report their hair feels thicker around 14-16 weeks of pregnancy. An increase in the hormone oestrogen results in a change of cycle to the hair follicles meaning they stay longer in the growing phase and less hair falls out.

Can I dye my hair during pregnancy?

There is not adequate research into the use of hair dye during pregnancy, however it is not thought to be harmful to your developing baby as your hair only absorbs small amounts of the harmful chemicals used in hair dye.

However we should always be cautious around chemicals, especially in pregnancy so follow these safety tips

  • Always colour your hair in a room with adequate ventilation
  • Always wear gloves if you are handling the dye yourself
  • Do not leave the dye on longer than recommended and follow the instructions carefully
  • Rinse thoroughly after application

***Hair changes***

***Constipation***

Hormonal changes during pregnancy mean you are more likely to become constipated, often occurring in early pregnancy. An increase in the hormone progesterone during early pregnancy means your food moves more slowly through your intestine, this is called a reduction in gastric motility.

Constipation means you are not opening your bowels or passing a stool (faeces/poo) as often as you would normally or when you do the stool is hard to pass and you may be straining to open your bowels.

Normal bowel function does differ from person to person but usually if you are passing less than three (3) stool per week we could call this constipation. 25-40%  women will report some degree of constipation during pregnancy hopwever in most cases this will resolve itself as pregnancy progresses.

If you do not have adequate fibre in your diet or are not drinking enough fluids this can increase the likelihood of constipation as well. Some medicines, such as those prescribed for nausea and heart burn and some pregnancy multi-vitamins can also increase constipation.

Tips to assist to relive constipation

  • Increase fibre in your diet – eat more wholegrain foods, fruits and vegetable, nuts, dried fruit or legumes are a great source of fibre
  • Stay hydrated by drinking 8 glasses of water each day. Reduce intake of coffee, tea or soft drinks
  • Stay active and take gentle exercise every day, such as walking, swimming, yoga
  • Go to the toilet when you feel the urge, do not put it off.

***Constipation***

***Haemorrhoids***

Haemorrhoids (also known as “piles”) are varicose veins in the rectum and anus. They can be internal, external or a combination of both. Internal haemorrhoids may bleed a little but are usually painless. If the vein becomes enlarged or swollen, it can protrude to become an external haemorrhoid. You may experience itching, burning, slight bleeding and pain when you open your bowels.

The following suggestions may be helpful:

  • Avoid constipation and straining on the toilet by including plenty of fibre in the diet by eating fruit and vegetables, wholegrain foods
  • Drink plenty of water to reduce constipation
  • Avoid standing for long periods.
  • Get regular gentle exercise
  • Open your bowels when you feel the urge and attempt not to strain to pass a stool. This can make haemorrhoids worse.
  • A deep warm bath may relieve the discomfort or an ice pack directly to the anal area may numb the painful sensations temporarily.
  • Rectinol ointment, available from pharmacies, can be applied to haemorrhoids that are causing discomfort.

It is important to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of haemorrhoids as there are other medical conditions which have similar symptoms.

Your doctor or Midwife can discuss with you the options to relieve symptoms during pregnancy. These may include laxatives, pain relieving medication, suppositories, creams or ointments.

***Haemorrhoids***

***Indigestion or heartburn***

Changing hormones in early pregnancy may result in many women experiencing indigestion or heartburn.

Indigestion is a feeling of pain or discomfort in the stomach or abdomen,  mostly occurs after eating or drinking, although it can occur at anytime. Symptoms may also include nausea, reflux or regurgitation, feeling bloated or burping.

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the throat or chest, caused by stomach acid coming up the oesophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach) and irritating the lining. Due to the effects of the pregnancy hormones the peristaltic  movements that push swallowed food from your food pipe into your stomach and then along your bowel are slower. Your stomach also takes longer to empty. This slowdown gives nutrients more time to be absorbed into your bloodstream and to reach your baby, however this can also cause heartburn during pregnancy.

  • Tips to avoid indigestion and heartburn
  • Avoid high fat or spicy foods
  • eating smaller meals, more often
  • Avoid lying down after eating
  • Avoid drinking with meals, drink before or after
  • chewing gum, which may cause you to produce more saliva to help neutralise the acid
  • raise the head of your bed by 10 to 15cm
  • sleep on your left side

***Indigestion or heartburn***

***Muscle cramps***

Muscle cramps in the feet, legs or thighs are common during pregnancy, especially at night. The cause of cramps is unclear. Some suggested reasons include changes in metabolism, vitamin deficiency, being too active or not active enough however research does not adequately tell us the reasons.

The following may help:

  • Stretching your calf muscles before bed may reduce overnight cramps
  • Gentle exercise such as walking and calf raises can help to promote circulation and reduce cramps
  • Magnesium supplements, which can be bought from pharmacies or health-food stores.

Please talk to your Midwife or Doctor if you are considering starting magnesium supplements, they are disturbing your sleep on an ongoing basis

***Muscle cramps***

***Backache***

Most women experience backache at some stage during their pregnancy. The causes include altered posture as the baby grows and hormonal changes, which lead to the loosening of ligaments that support our bones and pelvis. This is helpful as we prepare for labour but can result in backpain in pregnancy.

The following suggestions may be helpful:

  • Be aware of your posture – stand with your weight evenly on both legs, your back straight and your pelvis tucked under.
  • Do not lift heavy objects
  • Use chairs with good back support when sitting.
  • Avoid periods of prolonged standing.
  • Sleep on your side
  • Rest with your legs elevated.
  • Wear flat shoes with good arch support

See a women’s health physiotherapist if pain persists or impacts your activity or ability to rest and sleep.

***Backache***

Resources

https://www.seslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/groups/Royal_Hospital_for_Women/Mothersafe/documents/constipationpb20.pdf

Cullen G, O’Donoghue D. Constipation and pregnancy. Best Practice Research Clinical Gastroenterology 2007; 21 (5):807-818.

Quijano CE, Abalos E. Conservative management of symptomatic and/or complicated haemorrhoids in pregnancy and the puerperium. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. July 2005; Issue3. Art. No. CD004077

Hair treatments in pregnancy. Organization of Teratology Information Specialists. July 2020. Available at https://mothertobaby.org/fact- sheets/hair-treatments-pregnancy/

https://www.continence.org.au/get-help/resources

https://www.gesa.org.au

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Just when you thought the Haval Big Dog was about the most out-there Chinese vehicle name we were likely to encounter this year, in swoops GWM with its new King Kong Cannon which has just been revealed in its home market.

The King Kong – a name we simply love writing, to be honest – is likely so named because (in its biggest guise) it stretches a massive 5635mm in length, 1880mm in width and 1815mm in height, while riding on a 3410mm wheelbase – according to international sites.

The tray is bigger, too, stretching 1820mm x 1500mm x 495mm.

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That makes it bigger than Australia’s best-selling utes, the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, though the King Kong will also reportedly be offered with a smaller variant about on-par with the Aussie favourites.

It’s also bigger than our Cannon, which measures 5410mm in length, 1934mm in width and 1886mm in height, and with a tray that stretches 1520mm/1520mm.

Details remain a little thin on the ground for now around the King Kong – the info we have has reportedly been lifted from the Chinese Ministry of Industry – but the vehicle is expected to get a full-scale reveal at the upcoming Guangzhou auto show.

Moving all that metal, though, is expected to be Great Wall’s existing engine range, which tops out –in Australia – with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine good for 120kW and 400Nm, along with that eight-speed auto.

It’s also packing a taller-looking, more-upright front-end, and a new headlight design that will likely filter through to the rest of the GWM Ute family.

Great Wall is yet to confirm the King Kong for the Australian market.

 

Details remain a little thin on the ground for now around the King Kong – the info we have has reportedly been lifted from the Chinese Ministry of Industry – but the vehicle is expected to get a full-scale reveal at the upcoming Guangzhou auto show.

Moving all that metal, though, is expected to be Great Wall’s existing engine range, which tops out –in Australia – with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine good for 120kW and 400Nm, along with that eight-speed auto.

 

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale

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Confirmation of Pregnancy

You may suspect you are pregnant. This can be confirmed via pregnancy test or by a pregnancy blood test.

***Key Points***

A missed period may be the first clue you are pregnant, or maybe you have suspected you were pregnant earlier. You can confirm this by

  • Home pregnancy test
  • Blood test

***Key Points***

***Home pregnancy test***

A home pregnancy test can be purchased from your local pharmacy or chemist.

These are inexpensive, private and easy to use and if you follow the instructions they are very accurate.

Home pregnancy tests work measuring the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HcG) in your urine. Your body starts to produce this hormone when the fertilised egg implants in your uterus. The pregnancy hormone can be detected in your urine from about six to fourteen days after fertilisation.

Follow the instructions on the test, some required you to wee on the test stick. With others you may have to dip a testing strip into a urine sample. Most types of tests will give you a result in a few minutes. Results may appear as a line on the test strip while others display a plus or minus symbol.

Most pregnancy tests are sensitive enough to detect levels of HcG and display a positive result on the day you miss your period. However you may retest in a few days of you believe you are pregnant but return a negative result. It would be rare for a pregnancy test to return a positive result that was incorrect or false, but there are other reasons that you may have a high HcG levels such as a tumour.

***Home pregnancy test***

***Pregnancy blood test***

A GP can confirm your pregnancy by a blood test. Even if you have a positive home pregnancy test it is a good idea to visit your GP to confirm the result with a blood test and also discuss with your GP your options for pregnancy care. Pregnancy blood tests are 99% accurate and can detect a pregnancy about one week after conception.

A blood test will also confirm the presence of the hormone HcG but can detect this earlier than the home pregnancy tests. Normally HcG levels rise quickly in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy and this can assist your doctor to tell if the pregnancy is progressing as would be expected.

There are two main types of pregnancy blood tests

  • Quantitative blood test – measures the exact amount of hCG in the blood and can give you an estimate of how far along the pregnancy has progressed.
  • Qualitative blood test – only checks for the presence of hCG so will give you a positive or negative result but not how far along your pregnancy is.

Talk to your GP about these options.

***Pregnancy blood test***

Resources

For support and advice for an unplanned pregnancy

Reach Out

Family Planning Alliance Australia

Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby on 1800 882 436 to talk to a maternal child health nurse.

 

Your First GP visit

What to expect at your first GP visit and confirmation of pregnancy.

***Key Points***

Whether you are planning to have private or public pregnancy care you most women will visit their GP to discuss their Pregnancy care options

The aim of every antenatal visit in pregnancy is to check on your health and wellbeing and the progress of your pregnancy.

Decisions regarding your care will be made in collaboration with you factoring in your preferences for pregnancy care.

Your first appointment with your GP to confirm your pregnancy will ideally be as early as possible in pregnancy.

***Key Points***

***Your GP will discuss***

At this appointment your GP will discuss with you

  • Your general health and wellbeing and medical history, social history and any previous babies you have had.
  • Options for pregnancy and birth care such as Public hospital care, Shared GP/Obstetric Care, Private Obstetric care, Private Midwifery care or care attended at an Aboriginal health service.
  • Potential factors that may contribute to your pregnancy being high risk
  • Folic acid supplements and any further supplements recommended
  • Any medications you are taking
  • Foods to avoid in pregnancy.
  • Food hygiene and safety in pregnancy
  • Aspects of your life that may affect your health or the health of your baby, eg. smoking, recreational drug use and alcohol consumption.
  • What to do if you have concerns about your pregnancy prior to attending your first scheduled appointment at the hospital, midwifery or obstetric practice

***Your GP will discuss***

***Blood tests offered***

GP will provide you with a referral for the following blood tests;

  • HCG level (to confirm you are pregnant)
  • Blood group and antibody screen

This will include checking if you are Rh negative or positive

  • Full blood count
  • Iron level and Ferritin
  • Thyroid levels
  • Vitamin D
  • Hepatitis B screen
  • Hepatitis C screen
  • HIV screen
  • Syphilis serology
  • Rubella immunity
  • Urine screen – to check for signs of any infection

They may suggest any of the following depending on your individual circumstances

  • Vitamin B check
  • Early diabetes screening

***Blood tests offered***

***Ultrasounds offered***

Your GP will also provide a referral for

  • Dating Ultrasound – this ultrasound is usually attended before 12 weeks and confirms an estimated due date by ultrasound
  • Nuchal translucency ultrasound – this ultrasound is attended between 11-14 weeks of pregnancy and is part of the first trimester combined screen and also provides information on the development of the baby’s spinal cord and brain.
  • 19/20 week morphology ultrasound and placental localisation

***Ultrasounds offered***

***Models of pregnancy care***

All the information that you provide your GP, the results of the initial investigations and blood tests are sent in a referral letter to the place you have chosen for your pregnancy care and birth of baby/babies. IE – Public maternity hospital, Private Obstetrician, Private Midwife.

It is incredibly important to make the most of the time with the Midwife/Obstetrician who meets with you at your first booking visit at the hospital or private practice so as a thorough history is taken and information shared is complete. A checklist in preparation for this visit is available here.

***Models of pregnancy care***

Resources