Early pregnancy worries

Worried about your new pregnancy? Let Dr Gill Lockwood, iVillage's fertility expert, put your mind at rest

Q. I am pregnant again after suffering a miscarriage, but I'm scared to have sex - could it harm my baby?

A. You should probably avoid sex around the time that you would have been having a period (eight and 12 weeks), as these are the most common times for miscarriage. And if you had a first trimester miscarriage, some experts recommend that you abstain for the first 12 weeks.

Q. Does bleeding in early pregnancy inevitably mean that I will have a miscarriage?

A. No! Up to 20 per cent of successful pregnancies have some spotting or bleeding in the early weeks. Bleeding is even more common after IVF where more than one embryo is implanted. If you do experience bleeding after a positive pregnancy test, ask for a 'six week scan' to determine viability.

Q. What steps can I take to help prevent miscarriage in this pregnancy?

A Avoid alcohol, smoking and stress. Stay away from saunas, jacuzzis, steam rooms and heavy exercise. Eat light, easily-digested meals and drink plenty of fluids. If you have miscarried more than twice before, ask your GP to refer you to a 'recurrent miscarriage' clinic.

Q. I'm worried that my GP won't let me have an early scan. Can I demand one?

A. If you tell your doctor that you are uncertain about your dates, claim to have had some bleeding, have had fertility treatment that could result in a multiple pregnancy, or have a history of miscarriage, your GP should be pleased to refer you for an early scan.

Q. My pregnancy symptoms seem to have stopped. Does this mean I am about to have another miscarriage?

A. Please try not to worry - pregnancy symptoms are hugely variable. Some women never have nausea, tiredness or tender breasts, while other women are really ill with symptoms. If you are worried, ask your GP for a 'quantitative HCG' and/or an early scan.