Pregnancy is the condition of having a developing embryo or fetus in the body. The union of an egg (ovum) with sperm is called fertilization, or conception, and it is this union that produces the embryo.
Symptoms of pregnancy
The symptoms of pregnancy include following
- Abdominal Swelling
- Breast Pain and Swelling and Tenderness
- Constipation
- Discoloration Of Skin
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Frequent Urination
- Lightheadedness
- Loss Of Appetite
- Missed Period
- Morning Sickness/Nausea
Pregnancy tests
A doctor prescribes lots of pregnancy tests in order to evaluate any abnormalities or any health ailment. Early detection always saves lives and hence, pregnancy tests are performed without any failure. Complete Blood Count is common test that is done during/before pregnancy. Other tests include Serum free T3 test, Serum hemoglobin test, T3 test, Thyroid Function Tests and most importantly the Ultrasound Scan that gives an idea about the positioning and other findings around the fetus.
Generally pregnancy test begins with home Urine pregnancy test that is available as OTC product and is easy to perform at home.
Pregnancy trimesters
For the sake of easy understanding, the entire pregnancy period has been divided in three trimesters. First pregnancy trimester is specified from conception to 12 or 14 weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP). During this stage, a woman often feels morning sickness (vomiting and nausea}, fatigue, tender breasts and frequent micturation. It is advised to take small frequent meals to prevent nausea. The lady can have alternate periods of activities and rest. Walking is considered to be the best exercise in first trimester.
Beginning of the fourth month labels the second pregnancy trimester. At this stage of pregnancy, the pregnant woman might regain her lost energy as morning sickness disappears. She notices increased vaginal discharge because of hormonal changes in the body. Braxton Hicks contractions those are contractions and relaxation of the uterus are often misunderstood as false labor pains, are experienced. Low backache and swelling of the feet and ankles can appear. Yoga exercises under the supervision of the trainer can help relieving the problem. Kegel exercises i.e. tightening the muscles around the vagina and anus are to be performed in this stage of pregnancy. Stretch marks may be visible during this. One should avoid itching the abdominal area for reducing them.
The last of the pregnancy trimesters that covers from 28 to 40 wk is third trimester. The pregnant women might have sleepless nights having in mind the arrival of the newborn and of the pain they would undergo during child birth. Braxton Hicks contractions become prominent during this stage of pregnancy. The pregnant woman might feel tired and shortness of breath because of increased growth of the fetus.
Pregnancy Supplements
Beta-carotene is a nutrient, which is found in fruits and vegetables and gets turned into vitamin A in the body is useful for the pregnant woman and her fetus. Those that contain vitamin A from animal sources might cause birth defects when taken in higher doses during pregnancy and hence, beta-carotene, being much safer alternative is always preferred.
Folic acid is another prescribed prenatal supplement for several months prior to become pregnant as well and it is very important for the health and growth of the baby, particularly the brain functions. Iron is another essential supplement, which is advised to prevent the mother suffering from anemia because of the demands that the fetus puts on her iron consumption. Vitamin B complex, zinc, magnesium etc are also important for expecting mother and her fetus.
Pregnancy complications
The complications of pregnancy are many. Some of them are mentioned below –
- Abruptio placenta
- Ante-partum hemorrhage
- Eclampsia
- Low-Lying Placenta
- Miscarriage
- Oligohydramnios
- Polyhydramnios
