There is a good deal of controversy lately when it comes to pregnant women taking anti-depressants. The reason for the controversy stems from the fact that there is a large risk for women 25-44 years old to develop depression - up to 25%. Since these are the prime years for childbearing, many women find that they are suffering through depression while they are pregnant. Previous studies saw no increase in pregnancy problems when on certain anti-depressants, but unfortunately new studies are showing otherwise.

Earlier Studies on Anti-Depressants

Previous studies indicated that there was not an increase in stillbirths, miscarriages, or premature births when pregnant women take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft.
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Here are the recommended weight gain guidelines for pregnant women:

If you are normal weight before becoming pregnant (BMI of 19.8-26.0):

Gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy.

If you are overweight before becoming pregnant (BMI of 26.0 or more): Gain 15-25 pounds during pregnancy.

If you are underweight before becoming pregnant (BMI of 19.8 or less): Gain 28-40 pounds during pregnancy (depending on your pre-pregnancy weight).

If you have a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets or more): Speak to your health care provider. You will need to gain more weight during pregnancy depending on the number of babies you are carrying.

Most women typically gain 3 pounds in the first 3 months, and then 1 pound a week until giving birth. 

An approximate breakdown of the weight is:

• Blood: 3-4 pounds

• Breasts: 1-2 pounds
• Uterus: 2 pounds
• Baby: 6-8 pounds
• Placenta: 1.5 pounds
• Amniotic Fluid: 2 pounds
• Fat: 7 pounds
• Water: 4 pounds

Exercise is extremely important in promoting health and well-being during your pregnancy. Women who exercise during pregnancy have reduced weight gain, improved moods, improved sleep patterns and most experience a more rapid weight loss after pregnancy!  It also will help you to prepare for the physical stress of your labor and delivery.

There are some guidelines to follow when you choose to exercise during your pregnancy:

There is a good deal of controversy lately when it comes to pregnant women taking anti-depressants. The reason for the controversy stems from the fact that there is a large risk for women 25-44 years old to develop depression - up to 25%. Since these are the prime years for childbearing, many women find that they are suffering through depression while they are pregnant. Previous studies saw no increase in pregnancy problems when on certain anti-depressants, but unfortunately new studies are showing otherwise.

Earlier Studies on Anti-Depressants

Previous studies indicated that there was not an increase in stillbirths, miscarriages, or premature births when pregnant women take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft.

Anti-Depressants Cause Birth Defects?
Unfortunately reports released this year are showing an increased risk to babies whose mothers take anti-depressants. One study this year contradicts studies in the past, saying that there is an increased risk in birth defects for women who take SSRIs in their first trimester. Sandy Zeskind, a research professor in pediatrics at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, says that babies who were prenatally exposed to SSRIs had adverse effects on their central and autonomic nervous systems.
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Just because you’re pregnancy, it doesn’t mean you can’t travel. When it comes to flying, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that it is okay to travel by airplane up until you are 36 weeks pregnant, as long as you are having a low-risk pregnancy.

When Shouldn’t I Fly When Pregnant?
Air travel is never recommended for women who have pregnancy complications - such as pregnancy-induced hypertension, placental abnormalities, sickle cell disease, or women at risk for premature labor. You should definitely speak to your physician if you are planning to travel in the third trimester.

What Are the Airline Rules For Flying When Pregnant?
Each airline is different, so it’s best to ask before you arrive at the airport. Most airlines have restrictions after 32-36 weeks of pregnancy.

Is There Anything I Should Do In Flight?
Keep hydrated! There is an increased risk of dehydration, so make sure to keep plenty of water at hand. You should also stretch and try to walk around a bit to avoid the increased risk of blood clots from prolonged periods of sitting. If you find that you need to use the rest room frequently, make sure to request an aisle seat!

Are There Any Risks to Flying While Pregnant?
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So what is my pregnancy due date and when is this baby going to arrive?  That’s one of the first questions you (and everyone else around you) wants to know! 

Dr. Naegele’s Pregnancy Due Date Calculation

The most common way of calculating your pregnancy due date is based on a method developed by Dr. Naegele.  He determined that the average woman had a menstrual cycle lasting 28 days, with an ovulation date of 14 days.  The calculation would then be:

Date of your LMP (last menstrual period) + 7 days - 3 months.

Example: April 15th, 2003 + 7 days - 3 months = January 22nd, 2004!

Ovulation Pregnancy Due Date Calculation

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What is up with your hair?!?  If you’re lucky, nothing…  but many pregnant women do experience hormonal  changes that do affect their hair.

Pregnancy Hair - Dryness:

The most common complaint is that their hair becomes dry during pregnancy.  The best way to combat that is to buy a stronger conditioner and do deep conditionings often. 

Pregnancy Hair - Breakage:

Another complaint is breakage.  The hair may start breaking at an inch or two from the roots of your hair, especially at a part line or near the front of your head.  This isn’t a serious problem, but may require to use a styling product to get those hairs to lay down flat.