Dr Andrew Zuschmann

09/01/2026

One pregnancy symptom people underestimate...
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Fatigue in pregnancy isn’t just about poor sleep. Hormonal shifts, iron deficiency, cardiovascular changes and mental load all contribute especially in the second and third trimesters.
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If fatigue feels overwhelming or like it is getting worse, it’s worth checking iron levels and overall wellbeing. So make sure to have a chat with your healthcare provider.

08/01/2026

Late pregnancy reflux is common due to hormonal relaxation of the oesophageal sphincter and pressure from the growing uterus. Festive meals can worsen symptoms.
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Helpful strategies:
• Smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid lying flat after eating
• Elevate your head when sleeping
• Seek advice if symptoms are severe. There are many treatments that are safe and available

05/01/2026

The one pregnancy symptom that always gets worse in December and January (in Australia).
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Pregnancy in summer is tough. Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which can worsen swelling, dizziness and fatigue especially if you’re in the third trimester. Add dehydration, disrupted sleep, Christmas busyness and long days on your feet, and symptoms can escalate quickly.
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Practical tips I give my patients:
• Hydrate consistently, not just when thirsty
• Elevate legs where possible and if you’re not feeling too hot try some compression socks
• Avoid standing for long periods in heat
• Always seek medical review if swelling is sudden, painful or associated with headaches or visual changes
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Not everything is “just pregnancy” and it’s always okay to get checked.

03/01/2026

Such an awesome photo from .grove of me helping her little one into the world! I wasn’t her obstetrician for her pregnancy, however was lucky enough to care for her on the big day!

01/01/2026

Around 28 weeks of your pregnancy, you’ll notice that your baby will get into their own little pattern of movement. Recognising roughly how often your baby moves throughout the day and what is normal for them.
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If at any point you feel like your baby is moving as much as they normally would or the movements feel different and you are concerned it is ALWAYS a good idea to get checked.
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Remember that even though it is the holiday period, baby’s movements should always be taken seriously and you should always go in to get checked.

31/12/2025

As we close out 2025 and welcome 2026 I was lucky enough to help welcome many beautiful babies into the world, help other families become pregnant and held beautiful families through tough times.

Here’s to 2026 ✨

27/12/2025

26/12/2025

Is it safe to eat this Christmas food while pregnant?
Food safety matters more in pregnancy because immune responses are altered. Some Christmas favourites carry higher risk of bacteria - especially if you’re eating them as left overs.
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General guidance:
• Avoid soft cheeses unless pasteurised
• Be cautious with prawns and seafood - eat fresh and hot
• Avoid deli meats unless heated thoroughly
• Christmas ham can be eaten if cooked to at least 75’C
• Leftovers should be refrigerated promptly and reheated to hot
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If in doubt, fresh and hot is safest.

24/12/2025

Merry Christmas from my family to yours! For me the holiday season is all about spending time with friends and family, remembering those who are no longer around to spend Christmas with us. It’s also a time for reflecting on the year that has been. I’ll be honest, I’m very ready for 2026! It’s my turn to work Christmas this year so I might see some of you around over the next 5 days, but here’s hoping I make it through lunch 🤞🏼

22/12/2025

Welcome to the world Dimi Grey Herman 🫶🏼🎄

21/12/2025

Itching in pregnancy is common as your skin particularly on your belly is stretching but itchy palms of the hands and/or soles of the feet can be a sign of a liver condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).

Here’s what you should know 👇

Cholestasis happens when bile acids (which help digest fats) build up in the bloodstream instead of flowing normally.
This can cause intense itching often worse on the palms and soles without a rash.

Cholestasis can affect how your liver works and, in some cases, impact your baby’s wellbeing.
That’s why it’s important to mention these symptoms to your healthcare provider right away.

A simple blood test can check your bile acid levels and liver function can help diagnose cholestasis and allow your care team to put a plan in place for management — often with extra ultrasounds, blood tests, and discussions around timing of birth.

What You Can Do
- Keep track of when the itching occurs
- Avoid heat and tight clothing (it can worsen irritation)
- Don’t self-diagnose always get tested

Save this post for reference and share it with a mum-to-be who’s mentioned pregnancy itching it could be more than dry skin.