A: Before beginning any exercise program, talk with your doctor to make sure you do not have any obstetric or health conditions that would limit your activity. Ask about any specific exercise or sports that interest you. Your doctor can offer advice about what type of exercise routine is best for you.

The extra weight you are carrying will make your body work harder than before you were pregnant. Exercise increases the flow of oxygen and blood to the muscles being worked and away from other parts of your body. Therefore, it is important to not overdo it. Try to exercise moderately so you don’t get tired quickly. If you are able to talk normally while exercising, your heart rate is at an acceptable level.

Q: Can I garden?

A: Yes, as long as you feel comfortable doing it. You should wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after working with the soil.

For more information about preventing infections during pregnancy, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Q: Can I paint?

A: Paint fumes are usually non-toxic if the area is well-ventilated. Water-based latex paints are acceptable. If you have a question about the type of paint you are using, ask the manufacturer or call us.

Q: What about my hair care?

A: You may perm and color your hair during pregnancy as there is no danger to your baby.

Q: What if I need dental work?

A: It is not necessary to delay your dental work until after your pregnancy. If your dentist needs to take x-rays, just be sure to properly shield your abdomen. Local anesthetics are permitted. If your dentist has any questions, please ask him/her to call us.

Q: Am I allowed to travel?

A: Travel poses no specific risks during pregnancy, but you should take some minor precautions. Use your seat belt throughout your pregnancy. During long trips, take time out to stand and move about. Consider access to obstetrical care. Although travel does not cause premature labor, there is the possibility that you may deliver far from home. Most airlines have restrictions in the last month of pregnancy, so check with the carrier. Finally, it is important that you drink lots of fluids.

Q: Will I have my own physician delivering my baby when the time comes?

A: After spending the vast majority of your pregnancy caring for you, your physician would like nothing more than having the privilege of delivering your baby. However, this is not always possible as we do not control the timing of when you go into labor or deliver. Babies are born 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and this means the labor unit never closes, making it necessary for our physicians to rotate coverage. Although we suggest you remain with your chosen provider for all of your prenatal visits, you may schedule some of your visits with other providers.

Q: What is a high risk pregnancy?

A: Women who begin their pregnancy with existing medical problems such as diabetes, hypertension, heart problems or known fetal abnormalities require the care of a high risk obstetrician. Usually, these women will have their medical information communicated to us by their referring primary care physician or obstetrician prior to their first visit. There are also non-medical situations, such as substance use, spousal abuse or psychosocial problems, which may also make a pregnancy high risk. Having a baby when you are older (35 years+) does not automatically make you a high risk patient if you are otherwise in good health.

Q: Will I need genetic testing?

A: Prenatal diagnostic testing is always your choice. Your physician will assist you with deciding which, if any, testing is most appropriate for you.

Please note: If you have questions about exposures to medications, drugs, chemicals, x-rays, infections and possible risks during pregnancy, you may call the Genesis Fund Pregnancy Exposure InfoLine at 800-322-5014 or 781-466-8474. Sponsored by the Genesis Fund, the hotline is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. All calls are confidential and free of charge. You can also visit www.thepeil.org for additional information.