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Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q. I'm eight months pregnant and I have a real aversion to dark green vegetables---Causing me not eat them. What should I do? Even though I faithfully take my prenatal vitamins everyday, I'm afraid that I may have destroyed this opportunity to have a beautiful baby.

A. Food aversions can be very frustrating in pregnancy---you suddenly can't stand even the idea of foods you previously could eat, or even want to eat! Your best bet is to avoid the vegetables that you have an aversion to, and eat the ones you are able to. Your prenatal vitamin is a good insurance, but of course, can't take the place of wholesome food. By making sure your diet is filled with a variety of healthy foods, you will maximize your chances of a healthy baby, even if you can't eat the broccoli. Nutrients in dark green veggies include calcium, so make sure you are getting some from other sources.

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.