Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common pregnancy symptoms and resources to help you feel informed and reassured — because whatever you're experiencing, you're almost certainly not alone.
That said, every pregnancy is different. These answers are intended to be general guidance. If you have specific concerns, please reach out to the team anytime.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms
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Nausea and vomiting is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms, affecting up to 80% of pregnant women. Despite being called "morning sickness," it can strike at any time of day or night, and for some women it persists throughout the day entirely.
When does it start and end? Nausea typically begins around 6 weeks and for most women improves significantly by 12–14 weeks. For some, it lingers into the second trimester.
What helps?
Small, frequent meals rather than large ones
Cold or room temperature foods which tend to be better tolerated than hot meals
Ginger in tea, biscuits, or supplements
Protein-rich snacks such as crackers with peanut butter or cheese
Staying hydrated with small, frequent sips rather than large amounts at once
Rest when you can, fatigue makes nausea significantly worse
When to contact us: If you're unable to keep food or fluids down, losing weight, or feeling dizzy and weak, please contact the team promptly. Severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is known as Hyperemesis Gravidarum and is a medical condition that requires treatment. There are safe and effective medications available.
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Mild cramping and discomfort in the first trimester is very common and often causes significant anxiety particularly for patients who have experienced pregnancy loss. In most cases, early pregnancy cramping is completely normal and caused by your uterus stretching and growing, implantation, increased blood flow to the pelvic area, and ligament changes.
What helps?
Rest when discomfort is present
A warm (not hot) heat pack on the lower abdomen
Paracetamol (Panadol) is safe for pain relief in pregnancy if needed
Gentle movement rather than vigorous exercise during uncomfortable periods
When to contact us: Please contact the team if you experience cramping that is severe or getting progressively worse, cramping accompanied by heavy bleeding, or one-sided pain. When in doubt, always reach out.
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Constipation is very common in pregnancy and often one of the least talked about symptoms. Progesterone slows digestion to allow more nutrients to be absorbed, and iron supplements can make it worse.
What helps?
Eat a high-fibre diet (fresh fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, dried fruit),
Drink plenty of water
Take a fibre supplement such as psyllium if dietary changes aren’t enough
Exercise regularly
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Heartburn is extremely common and affects the majority of pregnant women, particularly in the second and third trimesters. That burning sensation in your chest or throat is caused by stomach acid rising into the oesophagus, and pregnancy makes it worse for two reasons: the hormone progesterone relaxes the valve between your stomach and oesophagus, and your growing uterus puts upward pressure on your stomach.
What helps?
Eating smaller, more frequent meals
Avoiding lying down immediately after eating
Sleeping with your head slightly elevated
Avoiding spicy, fatty, or acidic foods and caffeine
Cold milk or yoghurt can provide temporary relief
Antacids such as Gaviscon or Mylanta are generally safe in pregnancy
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Haemorrhoids are more common in pregnancy than most people realise, and far more patients experience them than ever mention it at appointments. They are swollen veins in and around the rectum and anus, and can cause itching, discomfort, and occasionally bleeding, particularly after a bowel movement. They tend to appear or worsen in the third trimester and after birth.
Why does it happen? The growing uterus puts increased pressure on the veins of the lower body, reducing blood flow and causing veins in the rectal area to swell. Constipation and straining during bowel movements, both very common in pregnancy, significantly worsen haemorrhoids.
What helps?
Keeping stools soft through adequate hydration and a high fibre diet
Avoiding straining during bowel movements
Cold packs or ice wrapped in a cloth applied to the area for relief
Warm sitz baths to soothe discomfort
Over the counter topical creams such as Anusol or Preparation H which are considered safe in pregnancy
Avoiding prolonged sitting, particularly on the toilet
When to contact us: Please mention haemorrhoids at your next appointment if they are causing significant discomfort or if you notice rectal bleeding. While bleeding is usually related to haemorrhoids in pregnancy, it should always be assessed to rule out other causes.
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Sleep disturbance is one of the most common and frustrating symptoms of pregnancy, affecting women across all three trimesters. In the first trimester it's often driven by nausea, frequent urination, and anxiety. In the third trimester, physical discomfort, restless legs, and an active baby can make a full night's sleep feel impossible.
What helps?
A consistent bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down
A pregnancy pillow to support your bump, hips, and back
Sleeping on your left side from mid-pregnancy to optimise blood flow
Gentle stretching or relaxation exercises before bed
Avoiding large meals and fluids close to bedtime to reduce reflux and toilet trips
When to contact us: If insomnia is significantly affecting your mental health or daily functioning, please raise it at your next appointment. We can discuss safe strategies and refer you for additional support if needed.
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Back pain is extremely common during pregnancy, affecting more than half of all pregnant women at some stage. Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a related condition involving pain in the pelvic joints and is also very common, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
Why does it happen? As your baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts and your posture changes to compensate. The hormone relaxin also loosens your joints and ligaments in preparation for birth, which can reduce pelvic stability and contribute to pain.
What helps?
Regular gentle movement such as walking and swimming
Supportive footwear and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting
A pregnancy support belt for pelvic girdle pain
Heat packs on the lower back for short term relief
Seeing a women's health physiotherapist early is one of the most effective interventions for both back pain and PGP. As a patient of Dr Renee, you'll have exclusive access to the Thrive in Pregnancy physiotherapy class with Health 4 Women in your second trimester — a proactive, expert-led session designed to help you understand, manage, and minimise these issues before they become a problem.
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Leg cramps are very common during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. They most often occur at night and can range from mildly uncomfortable to surprisingly painful, frequently disrupting sleep. The calf is the most common site, though cramps can also affect the feet and thighs.
What helps?
Gentle calf stretches before bed
Staying well hydrated
Massaging the affected area, flexing your toes, and using a heat pack
Considering a daily magnesium supplement
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Fetal hiccups are completely normal and actually a reassuring sign of healthy development.
They feel like small, rhythmic, repetitive movements quite different from your baby's regular kicks and rolls, often described as a gentle pulsing or tapping sensation from within.
Why does it happen? As your baby practises breathing movements in preparation for life outside the womb, amniotic fluid moves in and out of their lungs, triggering the hiccup reflex. They are most commonly felt from around 24 weeks and tend to become more noticeable in the third trimester. Most women find them quite endearing once they know what they are.
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Braxton Hicks contractions are completely normal and are often described as your uterus "practising" for labour. They feel like a tightening or squeezing sensation across the abdomen that comes and goes, and are generally painless, irregular, and short-lived. Most women notice them from around 20 weeks, though they can occur earlier in subsequent pregnancies.
What helps?
Changing position or activity — if you've been active, rest; if you've been sitting, try a gentle walk
Staying well hydrated, as dehydration is a common trigger
Emptying your bladder
Warm baths or a heat pack on the abdomen for comfort
When to contact us: Braxton Hicks are irregular and typically fade with rest and hydration. Contact the team if contractions become regular, increase in intensity, are accompanied by lower back pain, vaginal bleeding, or fluid loss, or if you're less than 37 weeks and concerned.
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An increase in vaginal discharge is one of the earliest and most common signs of pregnancy. Normal pregnancy discharge is typically clear to white, mild smelling, and increases as pregnancy progresses. It is caused by increased oestrogen and greater blood flow to the vaginal area.
What helps?
Wearing breathable cotton underwear
Avoiding scented soaps, washes, or douches in the vaginal area
Panty liners if needed for comfort
When to contact us: Contact the team if your discharge becomes yellow, green, or grey, develops a strong or unusual odour, is accompanied by itching or burning, or if you experience a sudden gush or steady trickle of fluid which may indicate your waters have broken.
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Stretch marks are a completely normal part of pregnancy and a sign of the remarkable thing your body is doing. They typically appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, and thighs as the skin stretches rapidly to accommodate your growing baby.
Why do they happen? Stretch marks occur when the middle layer of skin stretches faster than it can regenerate. Genetics play a significant role — if your mother had stretch marks during pregnancy, you are more likely to as well.
What helps? While no product has been clinically proven to prevent stretch marks entirely, keeping skin well moisturised may improve its elasticity and reduce severity. Oils and creams containing ingredients such as vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and centella asiatica are popular choices. Staying well hydrated and maintaining a gradual, steady weight gain also supports skin health.
Frequently Searched Pregnancy Questions
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Flying is generally safe during an uncomplicated pregnancy, though most airlines restrict travel from 28–32 weeks without a medical certificate.
Flying Tips
Stay well hydrated
Wear compression stockings to reduce DVT risk
Move regularly and walk the aisle every hour or so on long haul flights
Choose an aisle seat for comfort and easy access
Always check with Dr Renee before flying, particularly if you have a high risk pregnancy or have experienced complications.
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Whether travel is safe during pregnancy depends largely on where you're going, how you're getting there, and how far along you are. Always discuss travel plans with Dr Renee before booking, particularly for international trips or travel in the third trimester.
Within Australia Domestic travel is generally safe throughout most of pregnancy for uncomplicated pregnancies. Road trips and short flights are fine with regular breaks to stretch and move. As your due date approaches, consider staying closer to home and ensuring you have access to obstetric care at your destination.
International Travel Restrictions vary by airline and some require a medical certificate from 28 weeks onwards. Always check your airline's specific policy before booking.
Key considerations for international travel include:
Destination healthcare standards and access to obstetric care if needed
Travel insurance that specifically covers pregnancy and premature birth
Vaccinations required for your destination — some live vaccines are not safe during pregnancy
Zika virus risk — travel to Zika-affected regions should be avoided during pregnancy
Food and water safety at your destination
Always discuss your travel plans with Dr Renee before booking — particularly for long haul, remote, or international destinations.
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Nausea is very common, especially in the first trimester.
If you’re unable to keep fluids down, losing weight, or feeling dizzy and dehydrated, you may have hyperemesis gravidarum and should contact our rooms for review.
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Light spotting in early pregnancy is common and often harmless, particularly around the time of implantation or after intercourse.
Heavier bleeding, clots, associated pain, or bleeding after 12 weeks should always be checked.
If you are ever unsure, contact our consulting rooms.
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Some foods carry a risk of listeria, salmonella, or toxoplasmosis which can be harmful during pregnancy.
Foods to avoid include raw or undercooked meat and seafood, sushi and raw fish, deli meats and pre-packaged cold salads, soft and unpasteurised cheeses, pâté, raw or runny eggs, and sprouts. High mercury fish such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel should also be avoided.
Thoroughly cooked food, pasteurised dairy products, and freshly prepared meals are your safest choices.
When in doubt, if it's been sitting out or you're not sure how it's been prepared, give it a miss.
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Alcohol is not considered safe at any stage of pregnancy. There is no known safe level, and the recommendation in Australia is to avoid it entirely.
Caffeine can be consumed in moderation. Current Australian guidelines recommend no more than 200mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy which is roughly one to two small coffees. High caffeine intake has been associated with restricted fetal growth, so keeping it moderate is important.
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We encourage regular physical activity during pregnancy. Evidence shows that exercise in pregnancy can, improve strength and endurance, reduce back and pelvic pain, improve mental health and reduce birth complication.
If you were not active before pregnancy, start with low-intensity activities such as walking, swimming, pilates or yoga.
If you were exercising prior to pregnancy and your pregnancy is uncomplicated, you can usually continue exercising throughout.
High impact contact sports, exercises with a significant fall risk, and heavy lifting may need to be avoided or altered as your pregnancy progresses.
Please discuss your individual circumstances with Dr Renee and your trainer.
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You should start to feel regular fetal movements from around 18–20 weeks. Every baby has their own pattern, and getting to know yours is important.
Contact the team immediately if you notice your baby's movements have reduced, changed significantly, or stopped — do not wait until your next appointment. Reduced fetal movement can occasionally indicate that a baby needs closer monitoring.
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Sex is safe during an uncomplicated pregnancy and will not harm your baby. Some patients experience light spotting afterwards due to increased sensitivity of the cervix, which is generally harmless. There are some circumstances where Dr Renee may advise against sex, including placenta praevia, unexplained bleeding, or preterm labour risk.
If you're unsure, just ask. It's a completely normal question and one we hear regularly.
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Vaccinations during pregnancy are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect both you and your newborn. The following are recommended for all pregnant women in Australia:
Influenza (Flu) Recommended at any stage of pregnancy and free for all pregnant women. Pregnant women are at higher risk of serious illness from flu, and vaccination also passes some early protection to your newborn.
Pertussis — Whooping Cough (Boostrix) Recommended between 20 and 32 weeks of every pregnancy. Newborns are too young to be vaccinated and are most vulnerable to serious complications from whooping cough — vaccinating during pregnancy passes protective antibodies directly to your baby before birth. Partners and all household contacts should also ensure their vaccination is up to date within the last five to ten years.
RSV Maternal Vaccine Recommended between 28 and 36 weeks, this vaccine protects against Respiratory Syncytial Virus — a common respiratory infection that can cause serious illness in young babies. Vaccinating during pregnancy passes protective antibodies to your baby in those vulnerable early months.
Dr Renee and our midwives will discuss the timing of all recommended vaccinations at your antenatal appointments.
Vaccinations can be administered through your GP.
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Medications prescribed by a doctor who is aware of your pregnancy are generally safe to take. Before taking any over the counter medications, always check with Dr Renee, your GP, or your pharmacist first.
For additional guidance, the Royal Women's Hospital Medicines Information Service (03) 8345 3145 is an excellent resource specifically for medication safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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It's best to avoid hot springs, saunas, and spas during pregnancy. Raising your core body temperature significantly, particularly in the first trimester, has been associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects and overheating.
Warm water is fine, but anything that causes you to feel hot, flushed, or uncomfortable should be avoided.
If you're visiting a thermal resort, cooler pools are a safer option.
Useful Resources
Mental Health and Wellbeing