"Notify your physician if you experience any type of injury, vaginal bleeding or leaking, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, muscle weakness and regular contractions during exercise or at any time," says Dr. Bartholomew.

Since the majority of breast cancers have been detected through self breast exams, they are recommended monthly for all women.

Self breast exams are usually best performed right after your monthly period has ended. However, during pregnancy, the rules change.

Dr. Bartholomew recommends that a pregnant woman notify a health care provider about any findings that may be of concern. "Breast discharge can be normal during pregnancy, but you should always be evaluated by a care provider," she says. "A breast exam is usually performed by your care provider during the first prenatal visit and may be repeated at your postpartum visit. Mammograms, breast ultrasounds, MRIs and breast biopsies can be safely performed in pregnancy, if needed."

It is vital that an expectant mom find a health care provider who will make her feel comfortable and will listen to her concerns during pregnancy. "The importance of getting involved in your own pregnancy cannot be stressed enough," says Dr. Bartholomew. She says that every expectant mom-to-be, owes it to herself to be her own advocate. "Be honest about your history, learn the names of your medications and ask questions if you don't understand something," she says.

Most specialists concur that they too want to make sure each woman is an informed and satisfied patient during her precious months of pregnancy. "I appreciate a patient with an interest in her health and who kindly tells me what is on her mind, even if she is unhappy with what is going on," says Dr. Bartholomew. "Doctors are people too, and we want you to be informed. You must have a sense of trust in your physician and be comfortable with the care plan."

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