Skip to content

Pregnancy!

  • by

For pregnancy to occur, a sperm must fertilize an egg released by the ovary during ovulation.  The fertilized egg is then implanted in the uterus. There is no pregnancy without a successful implantation.

Pregnancy, on average, lasts for about 38 to 40weeks. A lot of things can affect how your baby develops, and women who receive prompt and proper antenatal care are more likely to give birth to a healthy baby.

Sometimes, pregnancy diagnosis can come as a shock, especially when you are not ready for one reason or another. If you would love to prevent pregnancy, there are some effective birth control methods you should be aware of.

A happy pregnant lady touching her womb.
A pregnant lady touching her womb

Symptoms of pregnancy

Some signs and symptoms might show even before you decide to go for the test, while some will appear at a later time due to hormonal changes associated with pregnancy.

Missed period

A missed period seems to be one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy you will notice. But, missing a period doesn’t necessarily mean that you are pregnant, especially if you have an irregular menstruation cycle.

 Some other health conditions can cause a missed or late period.

Headache.

Headaches are common in early pregnancy, and they are usually caused by increased blood volumes and altered hormone levels. However, if your headache is not going away or very painful, you should contact your doctor.

Spotting

Some women experience light spotting and bleeding in early pregnancy, majorly because of implantation. Implantation occurs 1 to 2 weeks after fertilization.

Early pregnancy bleeding can be due to infection or irritation, or it can signal serious complications like placenta previa, miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy.

weight gain

In your first couple of months of pregnancy, you can gain between 1 and 4pounds, but weight gain is more obvious at the early stages of the second trimester.

Pregnancy-induced hypertension

Due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, some pregnant women develop high blood pressure. 

Some factors can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure like;

  • being overweight or obese
  • Smoking
  • Family history of pregnancy-induced hypertension.

Heartburn

Some pregnant women have complained of heartburn during pregnancy. This is because hormones released during pregnancy can relax the valve between the esophagus and stomach. Acid from the stomach can leak out and cause heartburn.

Constipation

Constipation can sometimes occur due to hormonal changes that occur during the early stages of pregnancy. This is because the hormonal changes can slow down the digestive tract, including its motility.

Back pain

Back pain is common during pregnancy, and about 50 percent of all pregnant women complained of back pain during pregnancy.

Back pains are mostly caused by hormones and stress at the early stages of the pregnancy. As the pregnancy progresses, the shifted center of gravity and increased weight can increase the backpain.

Anemia

Pregnant women are at a high risk of developing Anemia and, if not promptly and properly managed, can lead to low birth weight and premature birth.

Common symptoms of anemia include lightheadedness and dizziness.

Insomnia

During early pregnancy, it’s possible that you experience insomnia. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and stress can contribute to insomnia.

Activities like eating a balanced diet, having a good sleeping habit, and yoga stretches can help improve your insomnia and get a good night’s sleep.

Breast changes

Changes in your breast are one of the first signs you will notice during pregnancy. Even before your pregnancy progresses to the stage where it shows on your test, you may notice that your breast has become tender, heavy, or full, and your nipples, larger and more sensitive. You can also notice that the areolae may darken.

Acne

Some women have reported acne during pregnancy, which can be due to increased androgen hormones.

These hormones can increase the activity of the sebaceous gland in your skin, thereby increasing the volume of oils produced by your skin. 

The good news is that pregnancy-associated acne is usually temporary, and it clears after birth.

Vomiting

Ever heard of morning sickness? Well, it is a common symptom that usually occurs within the first four months of pregnancy. It is often the first sign that you will experience when you are pregnant.

 Increased levels of hormones are the main cause of morning sickness. Vomiting is a component of morning sickness.

Diarrhea

During pregnancy, you might experience diarrhea and other digestive difficulties. These digestive difficulties can be due to hormonal changes, a different diet, and added stress. However, if diarrhea lasts for more than a few days, contact your doctor to make sure you are not dehydrated.

So, if you think/suspect that you may be pregnant, you shouldn’t rely mainly on the signs listed above as confirmation. You should take a home pregnancy test or see your doctor for a lab test to confirm a possible pregnancy.

Many of these signs and symptoms can be caused by other health conditions like PMS (premenstrual syndrome).

Pregnancy weekly grouping

Pregnancy weeks are generally grouped into three distinct trimesters, each with medical milestones for you and the baby.

First trimester

During the first trimester (weeks 1 to 12), the baby grows rapidly. This is when the fetus begins to develop its brain, spinal cord, and organs. The heart also begins to beat.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), it was estimated that the probability of miscarriage is high during the first trimester. About 1 in 10 pregnancies(10%) end in miscarriage and 85% of such occurs in the first trimester. Consult your doctor right away if you are experiencing the symptoms of miscarriage.

Second trimester

Your healthcare provider will most likely perform an anatomy ultrasound scan during the second trimester (weeks 13 to 27) to check the fetus’s body for any developmental abnormalities.

If you are curious or anxious and can’t wait for the baby to be born before you know the sex of the baby, the test can also reveal the sex of the baby.

Yow will probably be able to feel your baby move, kick and punch inside of your uterus.

At the end of the second trimester (week 23), a baby in utero is considered “viable.” This means that it could survive living outside of your womb. Babies born this early often have serious medical issues, and they often need specialized care. The longer you are able to carry your pregnancy to term, the more the chance of giving birth to a healthy baby.

Third trimester

Now, during the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40), you will likely gain more weight, and you might notice that you feel more tired. 

The bones are formed, your baby can sense light, and they can also open and close their eyes.

As you approach labor, you might be experiencing discomfort at the pelvic while also noticing that your feet are swollen.

Braxton-Hicks contractions (contractions that do not lead to labor) may start to occur few weeks prior to the actual labor.

A pregnant lady with a stethoscope trying to hear the heartbeat of the fetus
A pregnant lady with a stethoscope

Pregnancy tests

You can use the home pregnancy test kit, and they are accurate after the first day of your missed period. If the test shows a positive result, you should fix an appointment with your doctor right away.

An ultrasound will be used to date and confirm your pregnancy.

Pregnancy is diagnosed by measuring levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), also known as the pregnancy hormone, in the body. 

Even though hCG is produced upon implantation, it may not be detected until after a missed period because this is when the levels rapidly increase.

 hCG is detected either through the urine or blood.

Urine tests can be done at home or in the doctor’s office. However, the blood test must be done in the laboratory, and they are about as accurate as the urine test.

 The major difference is that blood tests can be ordered as early as six days after ovulation.

The sooner your pregnancy diagnosis is confirmed, the better it is for the health of you and your baby. The sooner you can confirm you’re pregnant, the better. An early diagnosis will allow you to take better care of your baby.

Pregnancy and vaginal discharge

An increase in the volume of vaginal discharge is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. The discharge may increase as early as 1 to 2 weeks after conception.

As the pregnancy continues, you will notice that the volume, thickness, and frequency of the discharge increases. It is usually heaviest towards the end of the pregnancy.

During the final weeks of your pregnancy, you might experience “the bloody show,” where the discharge contains thick mucus and blood. This can be an early sign of labor, and you should consult your doctor if you are bleeding.

Normal vaginal discharge, or leukorrhea, is thin and either clear or milky white. It’s also mild-smelling.

If your discharge is yellow, gray, or green with a strong offensive odor, it is an abnormal discharge which can be a sign of an infection or a problem with the pregnancy, especially if it is associated with redness, itching, or vulvar swelling.

If you think you have abnormal vaginal discharge, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Pregnancy and urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common complications women complain of during pregnancy. Bacteria can enter the woman’s bladder through the urethra.

The fetus puts extra pressure on the bladder. The extra pressure cause the bacteria to be trapped, thereby resulting in an infection.

Symptoms of a UTI usually include:

  • Pain or burning sensation when urinating,
  • Pelvic pain
  • Lower back pain
  • Cloudy urine
  • Fever
  • Nausea and vomiting

About 18% of pregnant women develop  UTI.

You can prevent these infections by emptying your bladder more often.  Empty your bladder before and after sex to ensure to reduce the chances of getting the infection. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

 Avoid using harsh soaps and douches in the genital area.

Contact your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of a UTI. 

Infections during pregnancy can increase your risk of having premature labor.

When diagnosed early, most UTIs can be treated with antibiotics that are both effective against the bacteria and safe during pregnancy.

Pregnancy prevention

Women who  are not interested in getting pregnant and have male sexual partners should consider birth control

Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

IUDs work by preventing fertilization.  It prevents the sperm from fertilizing the egg. Even though they are currently the most effective form of birth control, they don’t prevent sexually transmitted infections.

The pill and other hormonal birth control methods

The pills for birth control, patches, and vaginal rings work by controlling the woman’s body’s hormonal levels. They are available by prescription from a physician.

One of the actions that can affect or reduce the effectiveness of this method is by missing a dose for oral pills or forgetting to use them as prescribed.

Condoms and other barrier methods

Condoms, diaphragms, and sponges are also used for controlling birth rates. They are convenient and inexpensive, and they can be bought without a prescription.

They work effectively when used properly every time you have sex. Also, contraceptives such as birth control pill or a spermicide can be used alongside the condom to further reduce the chances of getting pregnant.

Emergency contraception

Various morning pills are available both by prescription and over-the-counter. These pills are not regular pills for birth control, but they can act as a backup plan when you have unprotected sex or forget to use the regular birth control method.

These emergency contraceptives are to be used within 120 hours[five days] after sex for them to be effective. While some pills are most effective when taken within 72 hours[three days]. The longer the gap between when you have sex and when you use the pill, the lower the effectiveness of the drug.

Natural family planning (NFP)

Natural family planning (NFP), also known as fertility awareness, is the birth control method with the highest failure rate.  With NFP, a woman is educated on how to track her menstrual cycle so that she can predict when her next ovulating period will occur and can avoid intercourse during her fertile window. 

Accidental pregnancies may occur because a lot of variables can affect a woman’s month-to-month cycle. 

Point to note

Condoms are the only birth control method that can prevent pregnancy and also protect against STDs.

Pregnancy or PMS

Most early pregnancy symptoms often imitate those of premenstrual syndrome [PMS]. It can sometimes be difficult for a woman to differentiate if what she is experiencing is due to pregnancy or just the beginning of another menstrual period.

It is essential for a woman to know as early as possible if she is pregnant to get proper prenatal care, which might include making certain lifestyle changes such as abstaining from alcohol, taking prenatal vitamins, and even improving her diets.  

Taking a pregnancy test either at home or visiting your health care provider is the best and easiest way to determine if it is PMS or early pregnancy signs.

Some common symptoms of both PMS and early pregnancy include:

  • Breast pain
  • Bleeding
  • Changes in your mood
  • Fatigue
  • Sensitivities to food
  • Cramps

Pregnancy diet

 Healthy pregnancy diets are typically the same as your typical healthy diet, but with 340 to 450 extra calories per day. Examples of such a healthy mix of foods include

  • Healthy fats
  • Protein
  • Grains and legumes
  • Complex carbohydrates
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Grains and legumes

Oh! And if you are already taking healthy diets, then that is perfect because you’ll only need to make slight changes. During pregnancy, you will need a lot of fluids, fiber, and iron-rich foods.

Vitamins and minerals

A larger amount of vitamins and minerals are needed by pregnant women than those who are not pregnant. Examples are folic acid and zinc.

If pregnant, you may need to increase your vitamin and mineral intake by taking supplements. Make sure you read all nutrition labels and consult your doctor before taking supplements or over-the-counter medications.

Although rare, taking a lot of supplements could result in a condition called hypervitaminosis ( vitamin toxicity or overdose).

 However, you need not disturb yourself too much about it because a complete prenatal vitamin will most likely contain a good mix of the nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy. Be sure you get yours from a reputable source or manufacturer.

One of the best ways to take care of the little fella growing inside your tummy is to take good care of yourself.

Pregnancy and exercise

Hey there! are you looking for a way to keep fit, relaxed, and ready for labor? The simple answer is, by exercising! Oh yes! You heard me right. Yoga stretches, as an exercise, can help you stay limber. But it’s important that you do not overdo your stretches as you could get injured.

Some other types of good exercise for pregnancy include gentle pilates, walking, and swimming.

To accommodate your body changes and reduced energy levels, you may need to change your current fitness routine. 

To ensure that you are not over-straining or overworking yourself, it’s advisable to get a health care provider or personal trainer to help you during your workouts. 

Pregnancy massage

Stress and anxiety felt during pregnancy can be eased by practicing some relaxation techniques. You could make use of a prenatal massage. It can help you stay calm, relieve mild tension, and relieve the body and muscle aches.

Massages are generally safe at any trimester of pregnancy, but some facilities do not extend their services to pregnant women that are in the first trimester because of the high risk of having a miscarriage in this trimester.

It’s a good idea to seek your doctor’s advice before getting a massage, especially if you have pains in your calves or other parts of your legs.

Essential oils

The use of essential oil during pregnancy is disputable. Some healthcare professionals say certain oil might be safe and helpful for relieving pains during pregnancy and labor, but they also advise against their usage in the first trimester of pregnancy.

According to the nonprofit National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, the debating point is in terms of the safety of the oil. More research needs to be done to know if the oil used during pregnancy can cause harm to the growing baby when it crosses the placenta.

Consult your physician before you use any oil.

With or without essential oils, you can have a peaceful and restful prenatal massage.

When to seek medical care             

 Women in their 20s or early 30s have decent chances of having a problem-free pregnancy. However, teens and women above 35 are at a higher risk of developing complications.

Underlying conditions

High blood pressure, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease can increase your risk of developing pregnancy complications.  Other examples of such underlying health conditions include:

  • cancer
  • kidney disease
  • epilepsy

If you have any of these conditions, ensure you monitor and treat them properly throughout your pregnancy period to avoid miscarriages, poor fetal growth, and congenital disabilities. 

Other risk factors

  • multiple-birth pregnancies, such as twins or triplets
  • infections, including STDs
  • being overweight or obese
  • anemia

Pregnancy complications

Pregnancy complications are difficulties that occur during pregnancy or delivery, which may affect the mother’s health, the baby’s health, or both.

Common pregnancy complications include:

  • high blood pressure
  • Miscarriage
  • Preterm labor
  • Gestational diabetes
  • preeclampsia

If these complications are treated early, it may reduce the level of harm done to both the mother and child.

Ensure you know which treatment works well for you when treating your pregnancy complications.

Pregnancy and labor

Four months after being pregnant, you may begin to experience some labor contractions called Braxton-Hicks contractions, also called false labor. They are absolutely normal and helps to prepare your uterus for real labor.

It is important to note that these false contractions do not occur at regular intervals, and neither do they increase in intensity.

If you are experiencing regular contractions before week 37, you need to get across to your physician as this could be a preterm labor.

Labor Contractions

Labor contractions are classified into three major categories;

  • The early labor contraction
  • The active labor contraction
  • The transitional labor

Early labor contraction

You might experience mild to moderate contractions that might last for about 30 to 45 seconds or even shorter. They might also be regular or irregular. At first, the contractions may be far apart (like 20mins apart), but the contractions’ time becomes progressively closer to each other towards the end of the early labor.

During your early labor, you might experience any of the following labor signs.

  • Bloody show (blood-tinged mucous discharge)
  • Breaking of water sac ( this is more likely to occur during active labor)
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Backache (constant or associated with each contraction)
  • Menstrual-like cramps

Active labor

This stage usually lasts for about two to three and a half hours as the cervix dilates to 7cm and the contraction gets more concentrated and more intense/painful.  

You might feel all of the following;

  • Intense pain with contractions
  • Increased blood show
  • Fatigue
  • Heaviness in your legs
  • Increasing backache
  • Rupture of the membranes if they haven’t broken already.

Transitional (advanced labor)

This stage is the last and the most intensive phase. During this stage, your cervix will dilate from 7cm to the final 10cm.

It is also the shortest stage because it generally lasts from 15minutes to 1hr. But sometimes, it can last for about 3hrs.

Labor pain

The pain during the active labor will be very much. So ensure you speak with your doctor about your preferred method of handling the pain.

You may decide to opt for drug-free measures such as meditation, yoga, or listening to music to help with your labor pains.

If you choose to treat your pain with drugs, your doctor will have to decide between giving you an analgesic or an anesthetic, depending on which option is the best for you and your baby.

An example of such analgesic is meperidine [Demerol] which dulls the pain but allows you to retain some feelings.

Anesthetics such as Epidural, prevent the movement of certain muscles, but it completely blocks the pain.

Prognosis

Even though pregnancy leads to a lot of changes within your body, these changes do not always have a serious impact on your health.

However, certain lifestyles can either help or harm your baby’s growth and development.

Some of the actions that can keep you and your baby healthy include:

  • Taking your supplements appropriately.
  • Practicing safe sex
  • Getting adequate sleep/bed rest
  • Getting a flu shot

Some actions you should avoid include:

  • Smoking
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Eating raw meat or unpasteurized dairy products.
  • Sitting in a hot tub or sauna.
  • Gaining too much weight

Medications

During pregnancy, it is hard to determine which drugs to use and those to avoid. Your doctor will have to weigh the benefits of the drugs against the potential risk to you, your developing baby, or both.

Ask your doctor about any drug you want to take, including over-the-counter [OTC] medications for minor headaches.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted SourceTrusted Source, each year, at least 50 percent of pregnant women in the United States report taking at least one medication.

admin

See author's posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *