Amniocentesis
What Is The Amniocentesis Test?
Amniocentesis is one of several diagnostic tests that may be offered during pregnancy. It is used to detect chromosome abnormalities in the unborn child that may cause Down’s syndrome or other congenital problems. In amniocentesis, a sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the foetus is removed and analysed. This test is performed from week 15 of pregnancy onwards.
Anaemia
Anaemia During Pregnancy: What Are The Causes?
Anaemia is characterised by a low level of a substance called haemoglobin which contains iron and is responsible for transporting oxygen in red blood cells. During pregnancy, anaemia is quite common because the demands for iron change, so routine blood tests are carried out during pregnancy to check if you will need iron supplements. It is important that pregnant women eat an iron-rich diet to ensure the production of extra red blood cells so that the foetus and placenta receive enough oxygen. Iron rich foods include red meats, fortified breakfast cereals, dried fruits, pulses and bread.
Antacids
Why Could I Need Antacid Tablets During Pregnancy?
Antacids counteract stomach acidity and are often used as a treatment for heartburn. Heartburn occurs as a result of increased abdominal pressure, relaxation of the gastro-oesophageal sphincter due to pregnancy hormones and altered gastrointestinal function.* Symptoms are often aggravated by lying down, or by eating certain foods, particularly those that are spicy, fatty, fizzy or acidic. Symptoms will often be less severe with small frequent meals and snacks rather than larger meals. Avoid spicy, rich or fatty foods, eating just before bedtime and try to limit the use of antacids to manufacturers’ directions. If you’re taking iron supplements as well as antacids, don’t take them simultaneously. Antacids can stop iron from being absorbed by your body
Dowswell T, Neilson JP (2008) Interventions for Heartburn in pregnancy Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008 Oct 8;(4): CD007065
Antenatal Care
What NHS Antenatal Care Can I Expect To Receive During My Pregnancy?
Antenatal care means ‘care before birth.’ It aims to monitor and promote the wellbeing of a mother and her developing baby. Midwives and doctors provide information, advice and reassurance as well as monitoring, screening and treating where necessary. Antenatal care is a vital medical service and it is important to attend all appointments to ensure all is well with you and your baby through the pregnancy and pick up any problems early.
Aspirin
Is It Safe To Take Aspirin When I’m Pregnant?
Make sure you also check out the rest of our Pregnacare A-Z Guide to Pregnancy and Nutrition:
A / B / C / D / E / F / G / H / I / J / L / M / N / P / S / T / U / V / W
While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained in this guide is accurate and reliable, this is intended as a guide only and not a substitute for advice from a health professional. Please note: Vitabiotics cannot guarantee the reliability of facts obtained from other third party information sources. Information correct at time of being published (May 2020).
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