Our Family Doctor can give you all the information you need to maintain a healthy, happy pregnancy.
Pregnancy certainly stirs up a ton of questions, especially for new moms. Fortunately, our Elk City, OK, Family Doctor Dr. Natalie Patterson has the answers and the tailored-to-you pregnancy care you’re looking for. Have questions about your pregnancy? Here are answers to some of the top questions we get from our pregnant patients,
Should I Take Prenatal Vitamins?
Even if you eat a healthy, whole foods diet, you should still take a prenatal vitamin daily as soon as you find out you are pregnant (or if you are planning on becoming pregnant). Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, which is essential for the development of the fetus and can prevent birth defects. Talk with our Family Doctor to determine which prenatal vitamins to take.
What Is a Healthy Weight Gain?
The average weight gain for a healthy pregnancy is between 25-35 pounds. This translates to about two to four pounds in the first trimester, followed by one pound per week until birth. Of course, you’ll also be coming into our office regularly for prenatal checkups to monitor your health as well as the health and development of the fetus. At your next checkup, please voice any concerns about weight gain or not gaining enough weight during your pregnancy.
How Much Should I Eat?
You may have heard the phrase “eating for two,” but that’s not exactly accurate. While you certainly want to ensure that you’re eating enough for both you and your unborn child, you shouldn’t need to up how many calories you consume until the second and third trimesters. From 13 to 26 weeks, you can increase the calories you get by an extra 340 a day. After 26 weeks, you can add 450 extra calories a day. Be sure to speak with our Elk City, OK, Family Doctor about how many calories you should consume for a healthy pregnancy.
What Exercises Are Safe During Pregnancy?
While there are going to be days that you may not feel like working out, getting regular activity is incredibly important for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Low-impact activities such as swimming, biking, yoga, walking and strength training are safe to do while pregnant. Not sure about your workout routine? Want to discuss exercise routine options? Our Elk City, OK, team can provide you with the answers and care you need throughout your pregnancy.
Do you have additional questions about your pregnancy or the services and care our Elk City, OK, Family Doctor Dr. Patterson and the Patterson Family Medicine and Obstetrics team provide? To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (405) 578-5400 today.