6. I just failed the one-hour glucose screening test. Does this mean I have gestational diabetes? The one-hour glucose screening test merely indicates that you're at increased risk of having gestational diabetes. It doesn't state definitively that you do or you don't. Your odds of failing this test and actually having this condition are just 15 per cent. The only way to find out for sure if you have developed gestational diabetes, of course, is to go for the follow-up tests.
7. I'm 15 weeks pregnant. Suddenly, I don't feel pregnant anymore. Could something have gone wrong? The early second trimester is a bit of a no-woman's-land when it comes to pregnancy symptoms. The first trimester fatigue and nausea have probably begun to subside, and you're unlikely to be experiencing a lot of fetal movement at this stage. Get in touch with your doctor or midwife to talk about your concerns. Something as simple as hearing your baby's heartbeat can help to reassure you that everything's proceeding according to plan.
8. I can't believe how "hormonal" I've been acting. I feel like I've completely lost my mind! There's no denying it. The "cocktail" of pregnancy hormones that you're describing can leave you feeling weepy one moment and euphorically happy the next. Fortunately, the effects aren't permanent. You'll get your marbles back at some point after the delivery!
9. I'm worried about how my having a baby will affect my relationship with my partner. Having a baby may bring the two of you closer together or -- if there are already some serious problems in your relationship -- it could very well drive you apart. The best way to deal with this particular problem is to tackle it head-on. Talk to your partner about how you're feeling and resolve to work through any rough spots as they arise. And make a concerted effort to keep the lines of communication open.
10. I'm not sure whether my partner and I are on solid enough financial ground to have a baby. Statistics about the cost of raising children are enough to scare you into celibacy! Fortunately, having a baby doesn't have to spell financial ruin. If you force yourself to distinguish between frills and necessities, make a point of shopping secondhand, and get in the habit of borrowing as much baby gear as possible from friends rather than buying everything brand new, you will dramatically reduce your baby's first year costs.
By the time you come to terms with all these worries, it will be time to head into the home stretch of pregnancy -- the third trimester.
Ann Douglas is Canada's foremost pregnancy author and a mother of four. Her most recent books include The Mother of All Pregnancy Books and Trying again: A guide to pregnancy after miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss.
