More than 7 in 10 (72%) British mothers have used Google to answer questions about their pregnancy, with nearly a third (32%) searching for symptoms between three and five times a week. Despite this, over two-fifths (43%) still reported feeling worried after turning to Google for answers.

Health experts advise expectant mothers to fly during the second trimester and avoid consuming high-mercury fish or processed deli meats.

Pregnancy is often a mix of excitement and anxiety, with the many unknowns leading expectant mothers to research extensively. Over seven in ten (72%) admitted to Googling pregnancy-related questions, and nearly half (43%) still felt concerned even after their searches, despite 32% researching symptoms regularly.

To address common worries, mother and baby retailer JoJo Maman Bébé teamed up with women’s health expert Dr Lillian Grant and maternal-fetal specialist Dr Victoria Hayes to provide answers to some of the most Googled pregnancy questions.

5 most Googled general pregnancy questions

• How soon will a pregnancy test read positive? This question garnered around 27,000 monthly searches, marking a 9.1% increase over the last three months.
• How many weeks is a pregnancy? With approximately 14,000 monthly searches, this question has seen a 6.1% decline.
• How long does it take to get pregnant? Searched about 12,000 times monthly, this query saw a 2.3% increase in searches.
• When do pregnancy symptoms start? Also averaging 12,000 monthly searches, it rose by 1.1%.
• When do you start showing pregnancy? Searched 5,200 times per month, this question dipped slightly by 0.5%.

An average pregnancy lasts 40 weeks

Dr Grant and Dr Hayes explain: “An average pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, from the first day of the last menstrual period to the estimated date of delivery. Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each about 13 weeks long, and is considered full-term from 37 to 42 weeks.”

They add: “Most women start showing in the second trimester, around 12-16 weeks. However, factors such as body type, weight gain, and whether it’s a first pregnancy can influence when a woman begins to show. First-time mothers often show later, while those on their second or subsequent pregnancies may show earlier due to previously stretched abdominal muscles.”

The best time for a pregnancy test is in the morning

“Most couples get pregnant within six months to a year of actively trying. The time it takes to conceive depends on factors like age, medical conditions, health, and lifestyle. To improve the chances, track ovulation and maintain a healthy lifestyle, including reducing stress,” the experts suggest.

“The best time to take a pregnancy test is about 14 days after ovulation, ideally after a missed period. For accurate results, use the first urine of the day as it contains the highest concentration of hCG.”

Early pregnancy symptoms, such as missed periods, sensitivity in the breasts, nausea, fatigue, frequent urination, food aversions, and light spotting, typically start one to two weeks after conception, but many women begin to notice these signs four to six weeks into pregnancy.

Flying during the second trimester is recommended

The doctors advise: “It is safe to fly during pregnancy, ideally before 36 weeks. The best time to fly is during the second trimester, between 14 and 28 weeks, when the risk of miscarriage and preterm labour is low.”

They also recommend staying hydrated, stretching your legs often to avoid blood clots, and always wearing a seatbelt under the belly for safety.

Paracetamol and some antihistamines are safe to take during pregnancy

“With any medication, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider. Paracetamol is generally safe to use in pregnancy for mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever. The usual dose is 500-1000 mg every 4-6 hours, but don’t exceed 4,000 mg in 24 hours,” say Dr Grant and Dr Hayes.

“Some medications usually considered safe include certain antacids, antihistamines, and prenatal vitamins. However, avoid medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, and some cold remedies, as they could pose risks to the developing baby.”

Properly cooked prawns are safe, but avoid raw eggs and processed deli meats

“Prawns are safe to eat during pregnancy if thoroughly cooked. However, avoid raw or partially cooked fish and shellfish due to the risk of bacterial or viral infections,” the experts caution.

They continue: “Choose low-mercury fish like salmon, sardines, and trout, and avoid high-mercury options like king mackerel and swordfish. Foods to avoid include raw or undercooked meat, raw eggs, unpasteurised dairy products, and processed deli meats, which may carry Listeria or Salmonella bacteria.”

To prevent foodborne illness, it’s also crucial to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Additionally, limit caffeine intake and avoid alcohol entirely.

Pregnancy cravings often begin in the first trimester and are driven by hormone changes

“Cravings usually start in the first trimester and peak during the second. They are believed to be caused by hormonal changes that affect taste and smell, as well as the body’s increased nutritional demands,” Dr Hayes explains.

“While most cravings are harmless, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and avoid overindulging in unhealthy foods.”

For those preparing for motherhood, JoJo Maman Bébé offers a variety of maternity essentials, including leggings, nighties, and maternity bras.