Can I still...? Everyday questions in the two-week wait
Can you exercise, have a bath, drink coffee or take medicine while you might be pregnant? Sensible, simple answers to everyday two-week wait questions.
By PreggieLover 3 min read
Once you have reached the second half of your cycle, ordinary decisions can suddenly feel uncertain. What if I'm pregnant and don't know it yet? Can I still go for a run? What about my morning coffee? Here are sensible, general answers to the everyday questions women often ask in the two-week wait. If you are having fertility treatment, your clinic's specific advice always comes first.
Can I still exercise?
Yes, for most women. Normal, moderate activity such as walking, swimming, cycling, dancing or gentle classes is generally fine. Exercise can also help with stress and sleep during the wait. If you are new to a very intense activity, this probably isn't the week to start it. And if you have been advised otherwise by your doctor or clinic, follow their guidance.
Can I have a hot bath?
A warm bath is fine and can be lovely for relaxing. As a precaution, many health professionals suggest avoiding getting very hot for long periods, such as in hot tubs, saunas or very hot baths, when you could be pregnant. Keep the water comfortably warm rather than steaming.
Can I drink coffee or tea?
Many guidelines suggest keeping caffeine moderate when trying to conceive and in pregnancy. Remember caffeine is also found in tea, cola, energy drinks and chocolate. If you are not sure how much is right for you, ask your midwife, doctor or pharmacist.
Can I drink alcohol?
Many health bodies advise that the safest approach is to avoid alcohol if you are trying to conceive or could be pregnant. If you are at a social event, a sparkling soft drink or alcohol-free option means you don't have to explain anything.
Can I take medicine?
If you need any medicine, including over-the-counter remedies or herbal products, tell your pharmacist or doctor that you could be pregnant so they can advise you. Please don't stop any prescribed medicine on your own. Talk to your doctor first.
Can I have an X-ray or other medical procedure?
Let the staff know that you are trying to conceive and could be pregnant. They will decide what is appropriate. Routine dental check-ups are usually fine, but mention it to your dentist too.
Can we still have intimacy?
Yes. Intimacy in the two-week wait does not harm a possible pregnancy, and staying close to your husband or partner can help you both through the wait. If you have any bleeding or pain afterwards, mention it to your doctor.
Can I eat normally?
Yes. Keep eating a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and protein. Keep taking your folic acid supplement if you have been advised to. You may want to start being a little more careful with foods often avoided in pregnancy, such as undercooked meat and eggs, unpasteurised dairy and certain fish high in mercury. Your midwife or doctor can give you a full list if you become pregnant.
Can I travel?
Usually, yes. If you are travelling abroad, check any vaccination or health advice for your destination, particularly regarding infections that may affect pregnancy, and ask your doctor if you are unsure.
Can I stop worrying?
This may be the hardest question of all. Worry tends to multiply during the wait. A few practical things help:
- Remember that normal daily life, eaten, walked and slept well, is generally good for you whether or not you are pregnant.
- Women often conceive and carry pregnancies without knowing for the first few weeks, while living ordinary lives.
- You are not responsible for controlling every outcome. Do the sensible things, then rest.
If worry is taking over your days or nights, talk to your doctor or someone you trust.
Looking to God, not just the calendar
The prophet Micah lived in uncertain times and made a simple decision about where to look:
“Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.” (Micah 7:7, KJV)
When your eyes are constantly on your body, your calendar or your symptoms, it can help to deliberately lift them. “I will look unto the LORD.” You might say that sentence aloud each morning this week. And know this: your God hears you, every question and every worry.
A prayer for ordinary days
Lord, help me to live these ordinary days wisely and without fear. When I'm unsure what to do, give me good sense and good advice. I choose to look to You, and I trust that You hear me. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to exercise during the two-week wait?
For most women, normal moderate exercise such as walking, swimming or gentle classes is fine. Follow your clinic's advice if you are having fertility treatment.
Should I avoid alcohol during the two-week wait?
Many health bodies advise that the safest approach is to avoid alcohol if you are trying to conceive or could be pregnant.
This article is for general information and encouragement, not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor or midwife about your own health and your baby's.
