Pregnancy is a beautiful journey—but it’s also filled with new sensations, physical changes, and plenty of questions. Whether it’s your first time or you’re growing your family, it’s completely normal to feel uncertain about what’s happening in your body.
At Gleneagles Medical Hospital, Lagos, we’re committed to guiding you through every stage with expert care and compassionate support. To ease your mind, we’ve answered some of the most common questions women ask during pregnancy.
Is This Symptom Normal?
During pregnancy, your body goes through incredible changes to support your growing baby. As a result, you might experience:
- Nausea and vomiting (especially in the first trimester)
- Fatigue and frequent urination
- Breast tenderness
- Mild cramping or spotting
- Food cravings or aversions
When to worry:
While many symptoms are normal, contact your doctor if you experience:
- Heavy bleeding or severe cramping
- Persistent headaches or blurred vision
- Sudden swelling in your hands or face
- Decreased baby movement in later pregnancy
Your Gleneagles obstetrician will help distinguish normal pregnancy symptoms from signs of complications.
What Foods Should I Avoid?
Eating well is essential for a healthy pregnancy, but some foods should be avoided to protect you and your baby. Here’s what to skip:
Avoid:
- Unpasteurized milk or cheeses
- Raw or undercooked meats, fish, and eggs
- High-mercury fish (e.g., shark, swordfish)
- Excess caffeine
- Alcohol and tobacco
Focus on:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains and lean proteins
- Iron-rich foods (beans, leafy greens)
- Folic acid and prenatal vitamins
A Gleneagles dietitian can help create a pregnancy meal plan that supports both mom and baby.
Is Exercise Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes—in most cases, exercise is not only safe but encouraged during pregnancy! It helps:
- Improve mood and energy
- Reduce back pain and constipation
- Support healthy weight gain
- Prepare your body for labor
Safe exercises include:
- Walking
- Prenatal yoga or stretching
- Swimming
- Low-impact aerobics
Avoid:
- Contact sports
- High-risk activities (e.g., horseback riding)
- Exercises that involve lying flat on your back after the first trimester
Always consult your Gleneagles doctor before starting or continuing any exercise routine during pregnancy.
How Often Should I Visit the Doctor?
Regular prenatal care is crucial to monitor both your health and the baby’s development.
Typical schedule:
- Weeks 4–28: Monthly visits
- Weeks 28–36: Every two weeks
- Weeks 36–birth: Weekly visits
During these appointments, your healthcare provider will:
- Check your blood pressure and weight
- Monitor the baby’s growth and heartbeat
- Perform necessary blood tests and ultrasounds
- Offer guidance on each stage of pregnancy
At Gleneagles Medical Hospital, we offer a structured Antenatal Care Program that ensures personalized attention throughout your pregnancy.
Can I Travel While Pregnant?
In most cases, traveling is safe during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester when energy levels are higher and nausea tends to subside.
If traveling:
- Stay hydrated
- Move around frequently (especially during flights)
- Carry your medical records
- Avoid travel to areas with high disease risks (e.g., Zika)
Always check with your healthcare provider before booking a trip—especially if you’re nearing your due date.
What Should I Pack in My Hospital Bag?
Preparing for labor is exciting—but don’t leave packing your hospital bag to the last minute!
Essentials to pack:
- Maternity wear and baby clothes
- Comfortable underwear and nursing bras
- Toiletries and slippers
- Important documents (ID, insurance, antenatal records)
- Snacks and phone charger
At Gleneagles Medical Hospital, our team will guide you on when to come to the hospital, what to bring, and what to expect during delivery.
What Should I Know About Labor and Delivery?
Labor can feel unpredictable, but preparation can reduce anxiety.
Signs of labor include:
- Regular, increasing contractions
- Water breaking (amniotic sac rupture)
- Lower back pain or pressure
- Bloody show (mucus plug discharge)
Whether you’re planning for a vaginal birth or a C-section, our obstetric team at Gleneagles will help you create a birth plan and walk you through your options for pain relief, delivery preferences, and postpartum care.
Bonus: When Should I Call the Doctor Immediately?
Call your doctor or go to the hospital if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding
- High fever
- Lack of fetal movement (after 28 weeks)
- Sudden visual changes or headaches
Your instincts matter—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait.
Your Pregnancy, Our Priority
Pregnancy is a time of hope, anticipation, and change. At Gleneagles Medical Hospital, Lagos, our mission is to provide outstanding maternal care—rooted in medical excellence, empathy, and trust.
From antenatal check-ups to postnatal care, we’re by your side every step of the way.
📞 Book Your Antenatal Appointment Today: +234 XXX XXX XXXX
📍 Visit Us: Gleneagles Medical Hospital, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos
🌐 Website: www.gleneagleshospital.ng
Your journey is unique. Let’s make it healthy, safe, and joyful—together.