Short, understandable and medically contextualized. These answers are general information and do not replace a personal examination.
Heavy bleeding, severe pain, shortness of breath, seizure, serious injury, amniotic fluid loss, markedly reduced fetal movements, or severe headaches with visual disturbances or high blood pressure – contact the obstetric emergency department of your clinic immediately.
Ideally around week 6 of pregnancy. At that point the pregnancy can be visualized in the uterus; depending on the exact timing, the heartbeat may already be visible. If you have pain or bleeding, the assessment should take place sooner.
Based on the first day of the last menstrual period and cycle length. In early pregnancy, the date can be verified using the crown-rump length and adjusted if there is a relevant discrepancy. After fertility treatment, the puncture or embryo transfer date is taken into account.
We discuss your medical history, medications, previous pregnancies and current symptoms. Depending on timing, this is followed by an ultrasound, a blood pressure check, and planning of the recommended lab tests and further check-up schedule.
In a normal pregnancy, Swiss basic insurance covers seven check-up appointments. These are spread across the pregnancy; toward the end or with a medical indication, shorter intervals may be necessary. At the practice of Dr. Wagner, check-ups follow a closer-interval schedule: at 6 weeks, if needed at 9 and 12 weeks, then every four weeks.
Two routine ultrasound examinations are scheduled: in the first trimester and between weeks 20 and 23. Additional examinations are covered when medically indicated or can be arranged as an elective service.
This examination evaluates development, heart activity, number of babies, placental position, nuchal translucency, and early anatomy. In addition, the options of first-trimester screening and NIPT are discussed.
The non-invasive prenatal test analyzes cell-free DNA from maternal blood and estimates the risk of certain chromosomal disorders. It is a screening test, not a definitive diagnosis. An abnormal result must be confirmed with an invasive test.
Usually from week 10 of pregnancy onward. The test should be combined with a qualified ultrasound examination and medical counseling, as it does not rule out structural malformations. Basic insurance covers NIPT only from week 12 onward and only if first-trimester screening showed an increased risk (1:1000 or higher); otherwise it is a self-pay service.
Between weeks 20 and 23, organs, heart, brain, spine, limbs, growth, placenta and amniotic fluid are systematically assessed. Not every condition or malformation can be detected by ultrasound.
Often from the second trimester onward on ultrasound, provided the baby's position and visibility conditions are favorable. NIPT can also provide clues about chromosomal sex but should not be performed solely for this purpose.
The placenta is located on the front wall of the uterus. This is usually a normal variant. Fetal movements may initially be felt less clearly as a result; what matters is the position relative to the cervix and the other findings.
The choice of clinic can be discussed in the second trimester. In case of a high-risk pregnancy, multiples, or relevant pre-existing conditions, it should be clarified early which clinic can offer the necessary care for mother and child. Choosing a clinic is also a standard topic in our midwife consultation.
No. Energy needs increase far less than is often assumed. What matters is a balanced diet, good nutrient quality, and weight gain adapted to your starting weight.
A targeted reduction diet or prolonged fasting is normally not recommended. In case of significant overweight, individual nutritional counseling can be helpful; the goal is appropriate weight development without deficiency.
This depends mainly on your body mass index before pregnancy. Rather than a single target figure, an individual range is defined. In case of markedly excessive or insufficient gain, diet and fetal growth should be assessed.
Folic acid should be taken already before conception and throughout the first trimester. Depending on diet and findings, iodine, vitamin D, iron, or other supplements may be useful. More is not automatically better.
Usually 400 micrograms daily from the time you wish to conceive until at least the end of the first trimester. Certain pre-existing conditions or medications may require a higher dose, which is determined by your physician.
Yes, in limited amounts. Total daily caffeine intake from coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks and chocolate should be taken into account. Energy drinks are not recommended during pregnancy.
No. There is no amount of alcohol considered safe during pregnancy – this also applies to the occasional glass of wine or beer. If you drank alcohol before knowing you were pregnant, there is no need to panic, but you should mention it at your check-up.
Smoking increases the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth and growth restriction; quitting is worthwhile at any point in pregnancy. E-cigarettes are not a safe alternative, and cannabis is also not recommended during pregnancy. Supported cessation, if needed with nicotine replacement, is provided with medical support.
Vegetarian or fully cooked sushi is fine. Raw fish and raw seafood increase the risk of infection and should be avoided. The cold chain and hygienic preparation are also important.
Fish provides valuable nutrients, but predatory fish heavily contaminated with mercury should be avoided. Varied consumption of well-cooked, low-mercury fish species is advisable.
Only occasionally and not as a daily protein source. Tuna can contain relatively high amounts of mercury. Alternate with other fish species and follow current Swiss dietary recommendations.
Products made from pasteurized milk are generally fine, provided they are fresh and hygienically stored. Raw-milk products, cheese rind and products particularly prone to listeria should be avoided according to current Swiss recommendations.
Raw or not fully cooked eggs can contain salmonella. Use pasteurized egg products or choose dishes made with fully cooked eggs.
Raw or only cured meat can contain toxoplasma or other pathogens. Chilled cold cuts can additionally carry listeria. Freshly prepared and fully cooked products are safer.
Meat should be fully cooked through during pregnancy. This reduces the risk of toxoplasmosis and other foodborne infections.
Yes. The botulism risk applies to infants in their first year of life, not to pregnant women. Honey should still be consumed in moderation like other sugar-rich foods.
Yes. Spicy food does not harm the baby, but it can worsen heartburn or gastrointestinal discomfort.
A vegetarian diet can usually be well managed. With a vegan diet, qualified nutritional counseling and reliable supplementation, particularly of vitamin B12, are essential. Iron, iodine, vitamin D, calcium, protein and omega-3 should be checked.
Paracetamol can be used short-term when clearly indicated. Use the lowest effective dose and do not take pain relievers over a longer period without medical advice.
Not without medical advice. Timing, dose and gestational week are crucial; later in pregnancy, NSAIDs can cause relevant fetal risks. Ask your physician to recommend a suitable alternative.
Not for self-medication. Low-dose acetylsalicylic acid is prescribed specifically for certain risks, such as preeclampsia prophylaxis. Higher pain-relieving doses must be assessed differently.
Yes, if they are medically necessary and suitable for pregnancy. The choice depends on the infection, gestational week, allergies and resistance patterns. Do not stop a prescribed antibiotic on your own.
Do not stop medications on your own. An untreated condition can be more dangerous than a well-reviewed therapy. Ideally, all medications are reviewed already when trying to conceive, or at the latest after a positive test.
No. Herbal preparations can also contain active or problematic ingredients and are often insufficiently studied. Homeopathic high potencies usually contain no measurable active substance but must not replace necessary treatment.
In Switzerland, the seasonal flu vaccination and the pertussis vaccination in particular are reviewed or recommended in every pregnancy. Further vaccinations depend on season, risk, travel and the current vaccination schedule. The Covid-19 vaccination is also recommended for pregnant women according to the current Swiss vaccination schedule.
Live vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella or varicella are normally not given during pregnancy. Missing vaccinations should be caught up on ideally before pregnancy or after birth.
To protect the newborn from RSV, two equally valid options are available: the maternal RSV vaccination between weeks 32 and 36 of pregnancy, or antibody administration to the newborn after birth. Which option suits your baby depends, among other things, on the season and timing of birth, and is discussed in the third trimester.
Measure your temperature, drink enough fluids and identify the cause. High or persistent fever, shortness of breath, severe pain, rash or a markedly reduced general condition should be assessed by a doctor promptly.
Burning, frequent urination or lower abdominal pain should be investigated with a urine test. Urinary tract infections are treated specifically during pregnancy; fever or flank pain requires prompt assessment.
Reliable information is provided by medical counseling, professional drug information, and specialized databases such as Embryotox. General internet forums or the package insert alone often lead to unnecessary worry.
Yes, especially in the first trimester. Small meals, adequate fluid intake and avoiding personal triggers often help. Frequent vomiting, weight loss or an inability to keep fluids down require treatment.
Small meals, avoiding late eating and slightly elevating the upper body at night. If that is not enough, pregnancy-appropriate medications are available.
Adequate fluids, a fiber-rich diet and exercise are the foundation. If needed, suitable bulk-forming agents or laxatives can be used; the choice should be discussed with your doctor.
Yes, especially at the beginning and toward the end of pregnancy. Burning, pain, blood in the urine or fever, however, suggest a possible infection and should be investigated.
Mild pulling sensations can result from growth and stretching. Severe, one-sided, rhythmic or increasing pain, as well as pain accompanied by bleeding, dizziness or fever, must be assessed by a doctor.
Bleeding does occur but is not simply considered normal. Intensity, color, gestational week and accompanying symptoms determine urgency. Heavier bleeding, pain or circulatory problems require immediate assessment.
Bleeding and increasing cramp-like pain can be indicators but do not prove a miscarriage. An ultrasound examination and, if necessary, follow-up checks provide clarity.
New severe headaches, especially with visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain, high blood pressure, marked swelling or neurological symptoms, must be assessed immediately.
Mild swelling in both legs is common. A suddenly swollen, painful or reddened calf on one side only can indicate thrombosis and must be examined quickly.
In a first pregnancy, often between weeks 18 and 22; in subsequent pregnancies, sometimes earlier. Placental position and individual perception influence the timing.
If you notice significantly fewer movements than usual, contact the birth clinic or your treating practice the same day. Do not wait until your next routine appointment.
Yes, especially in the first and third trimesters. However, pronounced or new fatigue can also occur with iron deficiency, thyroid disorders, infection or sleep problems.
Localized itching is often harmless. Pronounced generalized itching, especially on the palms and soles and without a rash, should be assessed promptly because of possible obstetric cholestasis.
More whitish, low-odor discharge can be normal. Unpleasant odor, itching, burning, blood-tinged discharge or watery fluid loss should be examined.
Amniotic fluid is usually clear and cannot be held back voluntarily. If you suspect ongoing watery discharge, contact the birth clinic regardless of gestational week.
Irregular tightening can occur. Regular painful contractions, downward pressure, bleeding or fluid loss before week 37 must be assessed quickly.
In case of heavy bleeding, severe pain, shortness of breath, seizure, loss of consciousness, a serious accident, very high blood pressure with symptoms, amniotic fluid loss, or markedly reduced fetal movements, seek the obstetric emergency department immediately.
Yes, regular moderate exercise is advisable in an uncomplicated pregnancy. Intensity and type of sport should be adapted to fitness level, gestational week and any symptoms.
Yes, with pregnancy-appropriate modifications. Avoid overheating, painful positions and exercises with a high risk of falling or injury. Inform the instructor about your pregnancy.
Yes, if you train with correct technique and adjust the load. Avoid straining while holding your breath, maximal weights and exercises with a high risk of injury. New high-intensity programs are not the right starting point.
If you ran regularly before and have no medical contraindications, often yes. Pace, distance and terrain should be adjusted; pain, bleeding, dizziness or contractions are stop signals.
Stationary cycling is generally well suited. When cycling in traffic, the risk of falling increases as the belly grows; assess balance, route and traffic realistically.
Yes. Swimming and water aerobics relieve the joints and back. Swimming is not allowed in case of amniotic fluid loss, bleeding, or a medical ban on bathing.
Because of the risk of falling, horseback riding is generally not recommended during pregnancy, even for experienced riders. The risk increases as pregnancy progresses.
Sports involving strikes, physical contact or a high risk of falling are not recommended. Choose a controllable alternative without risk of abdominal trauma.
Usually yes, provided it feels comfortable and there is no medical restriction. Pay attention to close-to-body lifting technique and avoid jerky movements.
Sleeping on your side is usually more comfortable later on. If you feel unwell or dizzy lying on your back, turn onto your side. If you wake up on your back, there is no reason to panic.
Significant overheating and strain on circulation should be avoided. Very hot whirlpools are unfavorable. In an uncomplicated pregnancy, a short, moderately warm sauna session may be possible for experienced sauna-goers; drink enough fluids and stop immediately if you feel unwell.
Usually yes, when performed by qualified practitioners in a pregnancy-appropriate manner. In case of bleeding, thrombosis risk, preterm contractions or other complications, check with your doctor beforehand.
Yes, in an uncomplicated pregnancy there is nothing against it; intercourse does not harm the baby. Caution is advised in case of bleeding, placenta previa, preterm contractions or after rupture of membranes. Questions about sexuality during pregnancy are of course also welcome in our midwife consultation.
In an uncomplicated pregnancy, generally yes. Bleeding, severe nausea, thrombosis risk or relevant pre-existing conditions may require individual assessment.
This depends on gestational week, course of the pregnancy and the airline. Many airlines require a medical certificate later on, or no longer allow travel shortly before the due date. Earlier limits often apply for multiples.
Stand up regularly, move your legs, drink enough fluids and avoid tight clothing. In case of increased risk, compression stockings or medication-based prophylaxis may be indicated.
A stay at moderate altitude is usually possible in an uncomplicated pregnancy. Rapid ascent, high altitudes and intense exertion should be avoided; seek advice beforehand if you have pre-existing conditions.
Yes. The three-point belt is worn below the belly, over the pelvis, and between the breasts. Do not deactivate airbags; keep sufficient distance from the steering wheel or dashboard.
After a significant accident, direct abdominal trauma, or in case of pain, bleeding, fluid loss, or reduced fetal movements, immediate obstetric assessment is necessary.
Yes, but because of toxoplasmosis wear gloves, wash your hands thoroughly, and ideally have someone else clean the litter box daily. Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite, not a bacterium.
Usual cleaning tasks are generally possible with ventilation and gloves. Do not mix products and avoid strong fumes. Stricter maternity protection rules apply for occupational exposure.
Short tasks using low-emission products and good ventilation are usually possible. Solvents, spray paints, sanding old paint, and possible exposure to harmful substances should be avoided.
Yes, if you feel comfortable. Avoid extreme loudness directly at speakers, crowding, overheating and prolonged standing without breaks.
No. Jerky acceleration, collisions and possible abdominal trauma make such rides unsuitable.
Occasional dyeing is considered probably low-risk with good ventilation. If you want to be especially cautious, wait until after the first trimester or use highlighting techniques with little skin contact.
Highly dosed retinoids or vitamin A acid products should not be used. For medical creams and highly concentrated active ingredients, individual evaluation is recommended.
Yes. Sun protection is important, as pigmentation changes can increase during pregnancy. Use a well-tolerated broad-spectrum product and supplement with shade, clothing and headwear.
Elective aesthetic treatments are postponed during pregnancy and usually also during breastfeeding, as benefit and safety are not sufficiently established and there is no medical time pressure.
New tattoos and piercings should be postponed because of infection risk and unclear exposure. Existing piercings only need to be removed or replaced if they cause discomfort or interfere with an examination or the birth.
Yes. Necessary dental treatment and dental hygiene should not be postponed. Inform the practice about your pregnancy; medications and X-rays will be adjusted accordingly.
No cream reliably prevents stretch marks. Regular skin care can relieve itching and a feeling of tightness. How pronounced they are and how they develop is strongly influenced by skin type, genetics and tissue stretching.
This is fundamentally a personal decision. If your workplace involves hazardous or strenuous tasks, chemicals, infection risks, radiation or heavy lifting, you should inform your employer early so that protective measures can be implemented.
Yes, if hazardous or strenuous work exists. The employer is responsible for the risk assessment and suitable protective measures and must, if necessary, offer equivalent, non-hazardous alternative work.
Work incapacity requires a medical limitation and is assessed individually. There is no automatic percentage-based sick leave starting at a certain gestational week.
In Switzerland, additional rest periods and breaks apply from the fourth month of pregnancy onward. From the sixth month onward, predominantly standing work is time-limited. Concrete implementation is handled through the employer.
In the eight weeks before birth, work between 8pm and 6am is not permitted. If equivalent daytime work cannot be offered, statutory wage replacement rules apply.
In a normal course of pregnancy, seven check-ups and two ultrasound examinations are covered. In a high-risk pregnancy, medically necessary additional check-ups are covered based on clinical judgment.
No cost-sharing applies to special maternity benefits. From week 13 of pregnancy until eight weeks after birth, cost-sharing is also waived for general medical services. Elective services that are not medically indicated must still be paid for yourself.
The term means that medical history, maternal illness, or current findings may require additional monitoring. It does not mean that a complication will necessarily occur.
Early, individually planned and often interdisciplinary care is advisable. Medications, disease activity and risks are reviewed together with the involved specialist disciplines.
A structured evaluation can be useful after two or more pregnancy losses. In a subsequent pregnancy, check-ups and possible treatments are adapted to the specific cause and medical history.
Early determination of placental and membrane conditions sets the monitoring schedule. Twin pregnancies require more frequent growth checks and early birth planning.
The oral glucose tolerance test is usually performed between weeks 24 and 28. After previous gestational diabetes or with certain risk factors, additional testing may already take place at the beginning of pregnancy.
The swab for group B streptococcus is usually offered toward the end of pregnancy according to the local care schedule. If the result is positive, antibiotics are given during birth to protect the newborn.
In Switzerland, a postnatal check-up is usually scheduled between weeks 6 and 10 after birth. Topics discussed include physical recovery, bleeding, wound healing, pelvic floor, contraception, breastfeeding and psychological well-being.