Pregnancy Care

Pregnancy is a precious time for you and your baby. It brings about major changes to your life and body. While your excitement and baby start to grow, you’re probably feeling a bit nervous too. Banner Health’s experienced, caring maternity team is here for you each step of the way. We offer modern facilities, expert health care providers, groundbreaking treatments and unparalleled resources, education and support to pregnant mothers.

Many factors can affect your pregnancy, but it’s always best to get early and regular prenatal care to help ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby. Talk to your doctor to learn what you can do to give your baby a healthy start.

Common Pregnancy Questions

• How do I know I'm pregnant? One of the most common signs of an early pregnancy is a missed period. However, there are a lot of subtle signs that could indicate you are pregnant. To learn more about pregnancy signs and symptoms, visit our First Trimester page.
• How long does pregnancy last? Most pregnancies last for about 280 days, but they can last anywhere from 37 to about 42 weeks, starting from the first day of the last period. Pregnancy is divided into 3 trimesters, which are 13 to 14 weeks each. 
• How much weight should I gain during pregnancy? Unfortunately, that question isn’t so cut and dry. Gaining the right amount of weight during pregnancy means gaining just what you need to nourish your growing baby and that can depend on a lot of factors. Learn more about weight gain during pregnancy.
• Can I exercise when pregnant? Yes! And generally, it’s encouraged. Get more information on exercising during your pregnancy.
• Is it safe to get pregnant if I’m on high blood pressure medication? If you’re taking medications regularly, talk to your doctor if you’re planning to get pregnant. Safely managing conditions, like high blood pressure, during pregnancy is important to both you and your baby. Learn more about pregnancy and high blood pressure.
• What cold medicines are safe to take during pregnancy?  There are a number of medications effective in helping with cold/flu symptoms while you are pregnant, there are others you should not take. Learn more about which ones are safe and which ones to avoid.
• What can I do for headaches, aches and pains? It's common for pregnant women to have headaches, aches and pains. However, try to avoid painkillers during pregnancy, especially aspirin in the first trimester. Try using more natural remedies like massage, stretching and rest as well as preventive measures such as eating a healthy diet, drinking lots of water and getting exercise. Learn about when a headache during pregnancy could be a cause for concern. 
• Is it safe to change cat litter? Cat feces can carry a parasite called toxoplasmosis, which can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. That’s why it’s best to have someone else change cat litter if possible.
• Do I need to avoid certain health, beauty and cleaning products? Some products contain potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, artificial fragrances, formaldehyde, phthalates, exfoliants, salicylic acid and more. Choose natural, organic products to avoid risk.
• Can I sleep on my back? It’s not safe to sleep on your back in the second and third trimesters. Your growing baby’s increasing weight can press the main vein carrying blood from your heart to your lower body area. 
• Can I have sex? Yes. In most cases, intimacy with your partner is perfectly safe for both you and your baby during pregnancy. However, iIt is important to check with your doctor.
• Do I have to take vitamins? To ensure your baby gets everything it needs, you should take a prenatal vitamin with calcium, folic acid and iron. Discuss vitamins and supplements with your doctor.
• What should I eat during pregnancy? You may need to change your eating habits during pregnancy. Pregnant women need about 300 more calories than normal each day. However, it’s important to eat healthy, nutritious foods to help your baby grow and to help you feel better during pregnancy. There may be foods that are best to avoid as well. Be sure to talk with your doctor to learn more. Learn more about what to eat, avoid and have in moderation during pregnancy.

Pregnancy and Maternity at Banner Health

Banner Health’s expert team is here to support and care for you throughout your pregnancy, labor and delivery and postpartum. Learn more about our programs and services:

• Find a Doctor 
• Find a Location 
• Appointments 
• Packing a Hospital Bag 
• Conditions 
• First Trimester 
• Second Trimester 
• Third Trimester