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Pregnancy Q & A III

By Hope Ricciotti, M.D.
2009-09-25 10:11:37

Q Is drinking herbal tea safe during pregnancy?
A If you drink herbal tea when you're pregnant, you need to use caution. In general, you can have teas made from foods you can safely eat, such as oranges, apples and ginger. Even then, you shouldn't have multiple cups, since the ingredients are very concentrated. Stay away from some of the more esoteric herbs, since their safety in pregnancy is unknown. Herbs can be drugs, so just because they are natural does not mean they are safe in pregnancy. Some ingredients, such as rasp-berry leaves, are known to be uterine stimulants and should be avoided.

Q Two women I know have had preterm labor, and I'm frightened at the prospect. What exactly is it, and is there any way to prevent it?
A Preterm labor means that there are contractions that lead to cervical dilation and, eventually, in some cases, to premature delivery (prior to 37 weeks). This is in contrast to premature contractions, in which the uterus contracts, but there's no dilation, and thus no preterm delivery. The best way to lower your chance of preterm labor is through regular prenatal care, so that problems can be identified and treated early.

Being aware of your body is important (always keep hydrated), so that if you do have contractions, your obstetrician or midwife can see you right away in order to try to stop them. Put your hands on your tummy and see if you can detect your uterus tightening from time to time (this tightening is referred to as Braxton-Hicks contractions). Everyone contracts a bit, especially as you get closer to term, but more than four to six contractions in an hour prior to 37 weeks are too many, and you should alert your obstetrician or midwife. If you start feeling contractions, drink fl uids and rest. If they continue, call your obstetrician or midwife right away.

Q My husband seems genuinely thrilled about the pregnancy, but says he has no interest in attending childbirth education classes. What can I do to get him to go? I'm worried he won't want to be in the delivery room, either.
A Speak to your husband to find out what is causing him to be reluctant. It may be that he is afraid, worried about his ability to help you, or concerned about seeing you in pain. Try telling him that you really need and want his support, and that going to classes will help him know how best to help you. Make it clear that no one expects him to be an expert — that is exactly why we have childbirth classes! If he is simply not sure he can go through with it, then perhaps you might be better off with a trusted family member or friend. Your husband can then play a more secondary role, yet still be involved in a way in which he feels more comfortable. Most Labor and Delivery units (check with your hospital or birthing center) will allow two sup- port people in the delivery room — so that both he and your primary support person can be present.

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