by Erin K.
Member since:
May 3, 2006

Transcript of Live Chat with the Authors of Your Pregnancy Week by Week: Interviewed on Tuesday, October 16, 3-4pm ET

October 15, 2007 12:15 PM UTC (Updated: October 16, 2007 04:21 PM UTC)
views: 0 | comments: 57

Tuesday, October 16th I led a live discussion with fellow Gatherers and authors Glade B. Curtis, M.D. and Judi Schuler, M.S.

If you are thinking about getting pregnant, currently pregnant, or have ever been pregnant, you have probably relied on their bestselling book Your Pregnancy Week by Week. I was delighted to welcome Judi and Glade back to Gather for their second live chat to answer our pregnancy questions. 

Thanks to Judi and Glade for their fantastic answers.  You can read the transcript of the conversation in the comment thread below. 

Best, 

Erin

Read the transcript from Judi and Glade’s first live chat

 

About the authors:

Glade B. Curtis, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.O.G., is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

He is in practice in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a Medical Consultant to the State of Utah Department of Health and a Medical Director of The Health Clinics of Utah.

Dr. Curtis is a graduate of the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science and a Master's Degree in Public Health (M.P.H.). He attended the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in New York.

He interned and was a resident and chief resident in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Rochester Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, New York.

Dr. Curtis is married and the father of five. He lives in Salt Lake City, Utah.

           

 

Judith Schuler, M.S., has worked with Dr. Curtis for more than 22 years, as his co-author and editor. They have collaborated together on 17 books dealing with pregnancy, women's health and children's health.

Ms. Schuler earned a Master of Science degree in Family Studies from the University of Arizona in Tucson.

Ms. Schuler has one grown son. She divides her time between Tucson, Arizona, and Laramie, Wyoming.
 

Comments: 57 ( 3 removed by Erin K. )

Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 2:59pm UTC
Hi everyone! I'm glad to be here today and look forward to your questions. Judi
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 2:59pm UTC
Hi Gather!
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:01pm UTC
Hi Everyone,

It's your chat host, Erin, from the Manic Mommies. I want to thank Glade and Judith for being with us today. Are you both online?
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:01pm UTC
Yes, I'm here--Judi
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:01pm UTC
Yes, I'm here.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:02pm UTC
Looks like all the players are here, so let's see if we have any questions. I'd like to throw this one out first from a Gatherer:

"I have been told not to take a hot bath while pregnant but I am dying to soak in the tub. Can I take a bath, how hot is too hot?"
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:05pm UTC
It's OK to take a bath--you just don't want the water to be too hot. It's best not to raise your body temperature for an extended period of time. That's also the reason we advise not soaking in a hot tub during pregnancy.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:06pm UTC
Here's another question from a gather member. It's one I hear a lot!

"Can I color my hair when pregnant? I have heard it depends on whether you are getting foils or a single process…help!"
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:08pm UTC
Most people recommend not coloring your hair during the first trimester (1st 13 weeks), this is primarily because of the odor. Medically, I don't think it is harmful to your baby - but to be on the safe side, I suggest waiting past the first trimester.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:10pm UTC
Really, because of the odor? That's interesting. FYI. I had my hair foiled after the first semester with both of my pregnancies.

Here's another question from a Gather member:

"I am not pregnant yet but we are going to start trying soon. When should I start taking prenatal vitamins? Also, should I just buy over the counter vitamins or should I ask my OB for a prescription?"
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:14pm UTC
It's a good idea to act as if you are already pregnant when you begin trying to conceive. By this, we mean stop drinking alcohol and smoking, continue to exercise (or start), eat healthfully (but don't diet), talk about your medication use with your physician and stop taking multivitamins and start taking prenatal vitamins. This way, your body will be getting essential vitamins and minerals it will need during pregnancy. Over-the-counter prenatal vitamins and Rx prenatal vitamins are equally good.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:16pm UTC
Here's another question from someone who could not be with us live today:

"What are your thoughts on exercising throughout a pregnancy? I exercise 5 days a week now and am in good shape. Can I just continue at my own pace based on how I feel? Should I wear a heart rate monitor? I have heard different things."
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:16pm UTC
Depo-provera is a type of progesterone. Depo indicates that you are getting a larger dose injected that will be gradually absorbed over time. It is a way to administer this hormone (progesterone) so you don't have to take a pill or use a suppository.
Progesterone has gotten more attention in the last few years related to pregnancy. It is often used by a woman trying to conceive and through early pregnancy to help avoid miscarriage.
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:19pm UTC
Exercising during pregnancy is extremely important to help you feel better during pregnancy. It can also help a woman have an easier labor and delivery, and postpartum recovery is often faster. If you've been exercising, it is probably safe to continue; however, exercise at only 70 to 80% of your prepregnancy level, and listen to your body. Remember, DO NOT ENGAGE IN ANY EXERCISE ACTIVITY WITHOUT CHECKING WITH YOUR DOCTOR FIRST!
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:21pm UTC
Here's an interesting question about patient-doctor communication:

"I am 20 weeks pregnant and really am not connecting with my OBGYN. I am worried that it might just be hormones. Should I wait and see if things change or make a move?"
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:24pm UTC
The type of progesterone you are asking about is for contraception. What you are describing is quite normal. Your body has used up the depo-provera, it is now trying to go back to your normal periods. It isn't unusual to have things be a little "rocky" during the transition - irregular bleeding or no periods at all. If your periods have been normal in the past - it should return to that. If after 6-8 months that isn't happening - check with you provider, there things that can help. Remember, now that you haven't had the depo shot for a while- you could become pregnant.
Beth K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:24pm UTC
I just had my son at the beginning of August and started back on my birth control pills in September. Since starting back on the pill I have had constant breakthrough bleeding - like a period. I've been told that this is normal due to hormone changes and it should stop. It seems to be taking quite a long time to get regulated.
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:25pm UTC
This happens sometimes. Not every woman likes every doctor. If you don't think you want to continue with this physician, it's OK to seek out another. Find someone who is accepting new patients, visit him or her, and if you decide to change, go to your current doctor's office and ask for a copy of your records to take with you to the new doctor. Be sure they include all test results of any tests you've had. That way, even if they say records have to be sent, you will have a copy that you can give your new doctor so your care can be started.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:28pm UTC
Here's another good question:

"I am at 34 weeks and have been told my baby is "sunny side up". Does this mean I am going to have back labor? Will I need a c-section if he doesn't turn?"
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:29pm UTC
I agree this is normal and not unusual. If you can, hang in there a little longer with your current pill. It can take 3 to 6 months with any pill for this to clear up. Birth control pills now are very low doseage of hormones - (which is good) - it does result in more breakthrough bleeding. If in another month or two it is still happening, the next step is usually to try another birth control pill. This is a good question to call the office about if it is really bothering you.
Beth K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:32pm UTC
Thank you
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:32pm UTC
Here's one about leg cramps. I had them, too!

"I am six months pregnant and keep waking up with horrific leg cramps. What is causing them and what can I do?"
Leah A. Oct 16, 2007, 3:32pm UTC
I had a C-section with my last child. It took a long time to heal, because it got infected and opened back up after it had started to heal. Also, I didn't realize that after it was supposed to be "healed" I was restricted on what exercises I could do, so my incision started opening up from the inside. Now, it's pretty well healed. We would like to have at least one more, but I'm afraid that I will have more problems the second time. Is this true or might the second one be problem-free?
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:32pm UTC
When the baby is facing up, you have a greater chance of having back labor. However, it's too early to determine if the baby will stay that way. If the position persists during labor, it can become necessary to have a C-section. But there is plenty of time for the baby to change its position. Don't worry too much about this at this point.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:39pm UTC
Here's another question about bleeding during pregnancy:

"I have had a few episodes of bleeding during my pregnancy that have lasted a few days and my doctor has told me that everything is fine. What are the most common causes of bleeding?"
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:39pm UTC
If you're having "horrific" leg cramps, bring it up at your next prenatal visit so your doctor can evaluate them. Until then, don't stand for long periods of time. Rest on your side as often as possible. Do some careful stretching exercises. You can use a heating pad on the area for up to 15 minutes at a time. Eat raisins and bananas for the potassium they offer. Massage leg cramps with your hands when they occur.
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:40pm UTC
Hi Leah - sounds like last time was difficult! The question you are asking is a very specific one for you. If you are still going to the same provider - this an important question to ask.
If you are going to another provider, you will want the new provider to see the records to be able to give you a good idea.
From the info you gave, I wouldn't say that you can't have another pregnancy or that things won't work out a lot better. Much depends on how you healed from the last C-section and the complications in healing you had.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:43pm UTC
Is it safe to use a heating pad for pregnancy-related back pain?
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:44pm UTC
The cause of bleeding during pregnancy depends on how far along you are. In the first trimester, we worry about miscarriage. It is scary to bleed anytime in pregnancy. But, many women have spotting or bleeding and everything turns out okay.
Later in pregnancy we worry about other things with bleeding - placenta previa, placental abruption or premature labor. Any bleeding during pregnancy is a good reason to call the doctor.
Ultrasound is a very valuable tool to evaluate this problem - it can also be very reassuring.
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:45pm UTC
Every pregnancy is different, Deeanna. What occurs in one pregnancy doesn't automatically occur in another. That said, eating right, getting some exercise every day, resting when you're tired and reducing your level of stress can all go a long way to having a healthy pregnancy.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:46pm UTC
Here's a question from a Gather member:

"I have one of those pregnancy pigmentation mustaches. When will it go away?'
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:47pm UTC
Yes it is safe use a heating pad during pregnacy- but there are a few cautions. I wouldn't put it on your abdomen (like right over your baby or your uterus). If you are putting it on your back or your legs - be careful not to get burned by leaving it on too long or set too high.
Leah A. Oct 16, 2007, 3:47pm UTC
Thank you, and I will ask her. I was a little afraid of what she might say, but your answer gives me hope. Besides, this time I will know to take it easy instead of trying to rush back into everything!!
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:48pm UTC
As to the question about bleeding--I had the same experience when I was pregnant with my son. It scared me a lot, but my doctor's reassurance that everything was OK helped me relax about it. And I had a healthy pregnancy, with few problems, and gave birth to a healthy baby.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:50pm UTC
Here's a question about C-sections:

"I have been told by my doctor that I have narrow hips and may need a c-section. Should I just go ahead and schedule one or will they be able to make the call before I deliver. I do NOT want to go through hours of labor and end up getting an emergency C-section like so many other women I know."
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:50pm UTC
Skin and hair changes are very common during pregnancy. We think they happen because of hormonal changes and changes in circulation. After you deliver these changes will regress over time. In most women it gets back close to what it was before, but not always completely.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:51pm UTC
This is an interesting question:

Could you explain the current position in this country with regard to circumcision?
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 3:56pm UTC
Today, about 65% of all male babies are circumcised. In the early 80s, when our sons were born, that number was as high as 80%. It's not unusual for couples to now decide not to have their son circumcised. Most doctors take a neutral position on circumcision. Most believe the decision is up to the parents, and is based on medical reasons and cultural and religious beliefs.
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 3:57pm UTC
Every pregnant woman needs to realize she MAY need a C-section. I have seen very small women deliver 9+ pound babies and I have seen large women require a C-section for a 6 pound baby.
I don't want anyone to have a Cesarean if they don't need it - but - I am grateful we can perform them when we need to. I like healthy moms and babies.
In your specific case: listen to your doctor. I wouldn't necessarily schedule the surgery now. Be ready for both and be sure to ask questions - "Will this change?" "Has the baby engaged in my pelvis?" Or dropped?
Unfortunately, in may cases we can't know that someone will need a Cesarean until they labor.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:58pm UTC
I think we have time for one more question
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 3:59pm UTC
Here's an important one regarding pain management:

"How soon can I get an epidural when I arrive at the hospital? A lot of women I know wait as long as possible. Is there a good reason to wait even if you know you want one?"
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 4:03pm UTC
I wanted an epidural when my son was born. I asked for it as soon as I walked into labor and delivery (I was just starting labor). I was glad I asked when I did because I had to wait for the anesthesiologist. Seems that a lady was giving birth at the same time and needed a C-section. When I heard she was having her 8th baby and it weighed 14 pounds, 15 ounces, I was glad she got her epidural, too!
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 4:04pm UTC
Good question! first of all, you need to be sure you are in labor. When you arrive at the hospital they usually do a "labor check" to see if you are in real labor, if your membranes have ruptured and that you and the baby are okay.
If you are in labor (and staying in the hospital) it is good to have good consistent contractions resulting in changes in your cervix.
You also don't want to wait too long for the epidural. To get you need to be able to lay on your side and not move for the placement of the epidural. It is hard to do this if you have the strong urge to push.
Suggestsion- ask to meet the anesthesiologist to discuss this when it is clear you re staying.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 4:04pm UTC
I'm with you Judi. I asked for my epidural right away, too. And good thing because I was nearly 8cm dilated by the time they finally got it in place!

Thanks to Judi and Glade for being here!
Judi Schuler Oct 16, 2007, 4:06pm UTC
I enjoyed all your questions and hope our answers have been helpful.
Erin K. Oct 16, 2007, 4:06pm UTC
That wraps up our chat for today. Thanks everyone.
Dr. glade B. curtis Oct 16, 2007, 4:06pm UTC
Thank you Gatherers! This was fun. Excellent questions. Enjoy the miracle of pregnancy! Glade
☆ ƒåitĥ ☆ Oct 16, 2007, 5:17pm UTC
Unfortunately I missed this, but it looks like it was an excellent chat! Thank you to everyone who participated. I will pass this one to my friends who are pregnant since it's filled with lots of great information.
April H. Oct 16, 2007, 5:25pm UTC
Rats, I missed a good one.
tammy b. Oct 17, 2007, 9:16pm UTC
this was interesting, sorry I missed it.
sweta j. Oct 31, 2007, 3:23am UTC
its great experience.
jo-anne w. Jan 15, 2008, 1:04pm UTC
could i be pregnant if

Join the Conversation
Chime in! Become a Gather member to comment.
Already a member? Sign in
top
 
Gather | Friends | Groups | Share
About Gather | Engagement Marketing | Gather Points | Advertise on Gather | Gather Press | Privacy | Terms of Service | Community Guidelines
Books | Business | Celebs | Entertainment | Family | Food | Giveaways | Health | Money | Moms | News | Politics | Sports | Style | Technology | Travel | Writing
Version 18247, "Zach"; Copyright © 2013 Gather Inc. All rights reserved.