6. X-Rays, CT Scans and MRIs during Pregnancy
Some women are concerned about tests
that use radiation during pregnancy. Can these tests hurt the baby? Can
you have them at any time in pregnancy? Unfortunately, we do not know
of any “safe” amount for a developing baby.
Problems, such as pneumonia or
appendicitis, can and do occur in pregnant women and may require an
X-ray for diagnosis and treatment. Discuss the need for X-rays with
your healthcare provider. It’s your responsibility to let your
healthcare provider and others know you’re pregnant or may be pregnant
before you have any medical test. It’s easier to deal with the
questions of safety and risk before a test is performed.
If you have an X-ray or a series of
X-rays, then discover you’re pregnant, ask your healthcare provider
about the possible risk to your baby. He or she will be able to advise
you.
If you enjoy listening to your baby’s
heartbeat, devices are available so you can listen at home! Some people
believe doing this helps a couple bond with baby. If you’re interested
in a use-at-home doppler device, check with your healthcare provider at
an office visit. Or check out these devices on the Internet.
Computerized tomographic scans, also called CT or CAT scans, are a form of specialized X-ray.
This technique combines X-ray with computer analysis. Many researchers
believe the amount of radiation received by a fetus from a CT scan is
much lower than that received from a regular X-ray. However, use
caution when having these tests until we know more about the effects of
even this small amount of radiation on a baby.
Magnetic resonance imaging, also called MRI,
is another test widely used today. At this time, no harmful effects in
pregnancy have been reported from the use of MRI. However, it may be
best to avoid MRI during the first trimester.
7. Dental Care
See your dentist at least once during
pregnancy. Tell your dentist you're pregnant. If you need dental work,
postpone it until after the first 13 weeks, if possible. You may not be
able to wait if you have an infection; an untreated infection could be
harmful to you and your baby.
Antibiotics or pain medicine may be
necessary. If you need medication, consult your pregnancy healthcare
provider before taking anything. Many antibiotics and pain medications
are OK to take during pregnancy.
If brushing your teeth makes you
nauseous, try a different toothpaste or plain baking soda. Avoid
mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
Be careful about anesthesia for dental
work during pregnancy. Local anesthesia is OK. Avoid gas and general
anesthesia when possible. If general anesthesia is necessary, make sure
an experienced anesthesiologist who knows you’re pregnant administers
it.
Gum Disease.
During pregnancy, hormones can make gum problems worse. Increased blood
volume can cause gums to swell and make them more disposed to infection.
If you have a condition during pregnancy
that causes severe pain, such as a root canal or a severe sprain, and
acetaminophen doesn’t take care of it, ask your healthcare provider
about using analgesic codeine. It’s considered safe during the first
and second trimesters.
Gingivitis is
the first stage of periodontal disease. It appears as swollen,
bleeding, reddened gums. It’s caused by bacteria growing down into the
spaces between the gums and teeth. Experts believe these bacteria can
enter the bloodstream, travel to other parts of the body and cause
infections in you.
Tip for Week 14
If you must have dental work or
diagnostic tests, tell your dentist or your healthcare provider you’re
pregnant so they can take extra care with you. It may be helpful for
your dentist and healthcare provider to talk before any decisions are
made.
Regular flossing and brushing help
prevent gingivitis. Brushing with a power toothbrush, especially one
with a 2-minute timer, may help clean teeth more thoroughly and may
help toughen gums.
Dental Emergencies.
Dental emergencies do occur. Emergencies you might face include root
canal, pulling a tooth, a large cavity, an abscessed tooth or problems
resulting from an accident or injury. A serious dental problem must be
treated. Problems that could result from not treating it are more
serious than the risks you might be exposed to with treatment.
Eating raisins can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Dental X-rays are sometimes necessary and
can be done during pregnancy. Your abdomen must be shielded with a lead
apron before X-rays are taken.
8. Your Nutrition
Being overweight when pregnancy
begins may present special problems for you. Your healthcare provider
may advise you to gain less weight than the average 25 to 35 pounds
recommended for a normal-weight woman. You will probably have to choose
lower-calorie, lower-fat foods to eat. A visit with a nutritionist may
be necessary to help you develop a healthful food plan. You will be advised not to diet during pregnancy. See the discussion below dealing with obesity during pregnancy.
