Concerns Regarding Early Fetal

The development of a baby is quite an intricate journey. From the moment that the egg and sperm meet, a baby is beginning the developmental process. This early part of development lays the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby. Unfortunately, because these early weeks involve such a complex process, things can go wrong and ultimately end in a pregnancy loss. If a possible complication in early pregnancy is suspected, your health care provider will use a combination of blood tests and ultrasound tests to make a clear diagnosis. A blood test can be used to monitor hCG levels and progesterone levels. Ultrasounds can be used to visually see what development is taking place in the uterus and to measure the progress.

It is common to have many questions about what this early development truly involves and what is to be expected. We have gathered information from different sources in order to provide the best guidelines of what normal early fetal development looks like. However, just as every woman is different, every pregnancy develops differently. This information should be used as a general guide for healthy pregnancy development, although development may vary due to the mother’s health or a miscalculation of ovulation. Gestational age is the age of the pregnancy from the last normal menstrual period (LMP), and fetal age is the actual age of the growing baby. Most references to pregnancy are usually in gestational age rather than fetal age development, but we have included both so that it is clear what stage development is at.

Week 1 & 2 Gestational Age - (Conception)

At this stage, the menstrual period has just ended and your body is getting ready for ovulation. For most women, ovulation takes place about 11 - 21 days from the first day of the last menstrual period. During intercourse, several hundred million sperm are released in the vagina. Sperm will travel through the cervix and into the fallopian tubes. When conception takes place, the sperm will penetrate an egg and create a single set of 46 chromosomes called a zygote - the basis for a new human being. The fertilized egg, called a morula, spends a couple of days traveling through the fallopian tube toward the uterus and dividing into cells (this dividing process is where many chromosomal abnormalities occur). The morula becomes a blastocyst and will eventually end up in the uterus. Anywhere from day 6 - 12 after conception, the blastocyst will imbed into the uterine lining and begin the embryonic stage.

Weeks 3-4 - Gestational Age (Fetal Age 2 weeks)

Development
The earliest change that can be seen through a vaginal ultrasound at this time will be the “decidual reaction” which is the thickening of the endometrium. The endometrium lining thickens as the blastocyst burrows into it. This cannot always be detected by ultrasound—sometimes it may take a special eye or very good equipment to see this “reaction” in the endometrium lining.

*A key fact to remember when using ultrasounds is that a transvaginal ultrasound can detect development in the uterus about a week earlier than a transabdominal ultrasound.

Hormones
hCG: Once implantation occurs, the pregnancy hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) will develop and begin to rise. This hormone will signal that you are pregnant on a pregnancy test. hCG can be detected through two different types of blood tests or through a urine test. A quantitative blood test measures the exact amount of hCG in the blood, and a qualitative hCG blood test gives a simple yes or no answer to whether you are pregnant or not.

Doctors will often use the quantitative test if they are closely monitoring the development of a pregnancy. After implantation occurs, the hormone will begin to rise and should increase every 48-72 hours for the next several weeks.

Progesterone: The follicle from which the egg was released is called the corpus luteum. It will release progesterone that helps thicken and prepare the uterine lining for implantation. The corpus luteum will produce progesterone for about 12-16 days (the luteal phase of your cycle.) When the egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum will continue to produce progesterone for the developing pregnancy until the placenta takes over around week 10. Progesterone is the hormone that helps maintain the pregnancy until birth. Sometimes, the failure of the corpus luteum to adequately support the pregnancy with progesterone can result in an early pregnancy loss. Progesterone inhibits immune responses, decreases prostaglandins, and prevents the onset of uterine contractions.

Week 5 - Gestational Age (Fetal age 3 weeks)

Development
The gestational sac is often the first thing that most transvaginal ultrasounds can detect at about 5 weeks. This is seen before a recognizable embryo can be seen. Within this week, at about week 5 ½ to the beginning of the 6th week, a yolk sac can be seen inside the gestational sac. The yolk sac will be the earliest source of nutrients for the developing fetus.

Hormones
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels can have quite a bit of variance at this point. Anything from 18 - 7,340 mIU/ml is considered normal at 5 weeks. Once the levels have reached at least 2000, some type of development is expected to be seen in the uterus using high resolution vaginal ultrasound. If using a transabdominal ultrasound, some type of development should be seen when the hCG level has reached 3600 mIU/ml. Although development may be seen earlier, these levels provide a guide of when something is expected to be seen.

Progesterone levels also can have quite a variance at this stage of pregnancy. They can range from 9-47ng/ml in the first trimester, with an average of 12-20ng/ml in the first 5-6 weeks of pregnancy.

With both hCG levels and progesterone levels, it is not the single value that can predict a healthy pregnancy outcome. It is more important to evaluate two different values to see if the numbers are increasing. Levels of hCG should be increasing by at least 60 % every 2-3 days, but ideally doubling every 48-72 hours. Progesterone levels rise much differently than hCG levels, with an average of 1-3ng/ml every couple days until they reach their peak for that trimester. In situations when there is a concern of an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, hCG levels will often start out normal, but will not show a significant increase or will stop rising all together, and progesterone levels will be low from the beginning.

Week 6 - Gestational Age (Fetal age 4 weeks)

5 ½ to 6 ½ weeks is usually a very good time to detect either a fetal pole or even a fetal heart beat by vaginal ultrasound. The fetal pole is the first visible sign of a developing embryo. This pole structure actually has some curve to it with the embryo’s head at one end and what looks like a tail at the other end. The fetal pole now allows for crown to rump measurements (CRL) to be taken, so that pregnancy dating can be a bit more accurate. The fetal pole may be seen at a crown-rump length (CRL) of 2-4mm, and the heartbeat may be seen as a regular flutter when the CRL has reached 5mm.

If a vaginal ultrasound is done and no fetal pole or cardiac activity is seen, another ultrasound scan should be done in 3-7 days. Due to the fact that pregnancy dating can be wrong, it would be much too early at this point to make a clear diagnosis on the outcome of the pregnancy.

Week 7 - Gestational Age (Fetal Age 5 weeks)

Generally from 6 ½ -7 weeks is the time when a heartbeat can be detected and viability can be assessed. A normal heartbeat at 6-7 weeks would be 90-110 beats per minute. The presence of an embryonic heartbeat is an assuring sign of the health of the pregnancy. Once a heartbeat is detected, the chance of the pregnancy continuing ranges from 70-90% dependent on what type of ultrasound is used. If the embryo is less than 5mm CRL, it is possible for it to be healthy without showing a heartbeat, though a follow up scan in 5-7 days should show cardiac activity.

If your doctor is concerned about miscarriage, blighted ovum, or ectopic pregnancy, the gestational sac and fetal pole (if visible) will be measured to determine what type of development should be seen. The guideline is that if the gestational sac measures >16-18mm with no fetal pole or the fetal pole measures 5mm with no heartbeat (by vaginal ultrasound), then a diagnosis of miscarriage or blighted ovum is made. If the fetal pole is too small to take an accurate measurement, then a repeat scan should be done in 3-5 days. If there is absence of a fetal pole, then further testing should be done to rule out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy.

Week 8 & 9 - Gestational Age (Fetal Age 6-7 weeks)

By this point in the pregnancy, everything that is present in an adult human is present in the developing embryo. The embryo has reached the end of the embryonic stage and now enters the fetal stage. A strong fetal heartbeat should be detectable by ultrasound, with a heartbeat of 140-170 bpm by the 9th week. If a strong heartbeat is not detected at this point, another ultrasound scan may be done to verify the viability of the fetus. If a pregnancy has been diagnosed as non-viable, most physicians will give the choice of waiting to see if the body will miscarry naturally (pending no other health issues) or to have a Dilation & Curettage (D&C) procedure. About 50% of women do not undergo a D&C procedure when an early pregnancy loss has occurred.

Hormones
The hCG levels will peak at about 8-12 weeks of pregnancy and then will decline, remaining at lower levels throughout the remainder of the pregnancy. If the levels are questionable, an ultrasound scan should be used to diagnose the pregnancy outcome. Ultrasound findings are much more accurate at diagnosing pregnancy viability after 5-6 weeks gestation than hCG levels are.

Guideline to hCG levels during pregnancy:

hCG levels in weeks from LMP (gestational age):

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  3 weeks LMP: 5 - 50 mIU/ml


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  4 weeks LMP: 5 - 426 mIU/ml


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  5 weeks LMP: 18 - 7,340 mIU/ml


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  6 weeks LMP: 1,080 - 56,500 mIU/ml


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  7 - 8 weeks LMP: 7,650 - 229,000 mIU/ml


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  9 - 12 weeks LMP: 25,700 - 288,000 mIU/ml


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  13 - 16 weeks LMP: 13,300 - 254,000 mIU/ml


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  17 - 24 weeks LMP: 4,060 - 165,400 mIU/ml


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  25 - 40 weeks LMP: 3,640 - 117,000 mIU/ml


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  Non-pregnant females: <5.0 mIU/ml


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  Postmenopausal: <9.5 mIU/ml

Guideline to Progesterone levels during pregnancy:

• 1-28 ng/ml Mid Luteal Phase (Average is over 10 for un-medicated cycles and over 15 with medication use)
• 9-47 ng/ml First trimester
• 17-146 ng/ml Second Trimester
• 49-300 ng/ml Third Trimester

These numbers are just a GUIDELINE -- every woman’s hormone level can rise differently. It is not necessarily the level that matters but rather the change in the level.

Fetal Development

Calculating the day your baby begins to develop and keeping track of your pregnancy dates can be a challenge. The development of pregnancy is counted from the first day of the woman’s last normal period, even though the development of the fetus does not begin until conception. Pregnancy is calculated from this day because each time a woman has a period, her body is preparing for pregnancy.

The following information is used as a general guide for healthy pregnancy development, although development may vary due to the mother’s health or a miscalculation of ovulation. Gestational age is the age of the pregnancy from the last normal menstrual period (LMP), and fetal age is the actual age of the growing baby. Most references to pregnancy are usually in gestational age rather than fetal age development, but we have included both so that it is clear what stage development is at. Measurements will be given in total length from head to toe, but each pregnancy can differ in weight and length measurements, and these are just a general guideline.

Pregnancy is also divided into trimesters which last about 12 - 14 weeks each. Similar to development, these can be calculated from different dates so not all trimester calculations will equal the same. The following information divides the three trimesters into a little over 3 completed months each. The first trimester is week 1 through the end of week 13. The second trimester usually ends around the 26th week and consists of the 4th, 5th and 6th completed months. The third trimester can end anywhere between the 38th - 42nd week and is the 7th, 8th and 9th completed months of pregnancy.

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  First Trimester


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  Second Trimester


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  Third Trimester

hcg Levels

The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (better known as hCG) is produced during pregnancy. It is made by cells that form the placenta, which nourishes the egg after it has been fertilized and becomes attached to the uterine wall. Levels can first be detected by a blood test about 11 days after conception and about 12 - 14 days after conception by a urine test. In general the hCG levels will double every 72 hours. The level will reach its peak in the first 8 - 11 weeks of pregnancy and then will decline and level off for the remainder of the pregnancy.

Key things to remember about hCG levels:

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  In a bout 85% of normal pregnancies, the hCG level will double every 48 - 72 hours. As you get further along in pregnancy and the hCG level gets higher, the time it takes to double can increase to about every 96 hours.
  
  
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  Caution must be used in making too much of hCG numbers. A normal pregnancy may have low hCG levels and result in a perfectly healthy baby. The results from an ultrasound after 5 - 6 weeks gestation are much more accurate than using hCG numbers.
  
  
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  An hCG level of less than 5mIU/ml is considered negative for pregnancy, and anything above 25mIU/ml is considered positive for pregnancy.
  
  
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  The hCG hormone is measured in milli-international units per milliliter (mIU/ml).
  
  
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  A transvaginal ultrasound should be able to show at least a gestational sac once the hCG levels have reached between 1,000 - 2,000mIU/ml. Because levels can differentiate so much and conception dating can be wrong, a diagnosis should not be made by ultrasound findings until the hCG level has reached at least 2,000.
  
  
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  A single hCG reading is not enough information for most diagnoses. When there is a question regarding the health of the pregnancy, multiple testings of hCG done a couple of days apart give a more accurate assessment of the situation.
  
  
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  The hCG levels should not be used to date a pregnancy since these numbers can vary so widely.
  
  
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  There are two common types of hCG tests. A qualitative hCG test detects if hCG is present in the blood. A quantitative hCG test (or beta hCG) measures the amount of hCG actually present in the blood.

Guideline to hCG levels during pregnancy:

hCG levels in weeks from LMP (gestational age)* :

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  3 weeks LMP: 5 - 50 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  4 weeks LMP: 5 - 426 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  5 weeks LMP: 18 - 7,340 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  6 weeks LMP: 1,080 - 56,500 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  7 - 8 weeks LMP: 7, 650 - 229,000 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  9 - 12 weeks LMP: 25,700 - 288,000 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  13 - 16 weeks LMP: 13,300 - 254,000 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  17 - 24 weeks LMP: 4,060 - 165,400 mIU/ml
  
  
• 
  
  25 - 40 weeks LMP: 3,640 - 117,000 mIU/ml
  
  
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  Non-pregnant females: <5.0 mIU/ml
  
  
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  Postmenopausal females: <9.5 mIU/ml

* These numbers are just a GUIDELINE-- every woman’s level of hCG can rise differently. It is not necessarily the level that matters but rather the change in the level.

What can a low hCG level mean?

A low hCG level can mean any number of things and should be rechecked within 48-72 hours to see how the level is changing. A low hCG level could indicate:

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  Miscalculation of pregnancy dating
  
  
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  Possible miscarriage or blighted ovum
  
  
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  Ectopic pregnancy

What can a high hCG level mean?

A high level of hCG can also mean a number of things and should be rechecked within 48-72 hours to evaluate changes in the level. A high hCG level can indicate:

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  Miscalculation of pregnancy dating
  
  
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  Molar pregnancy
  
  
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  Multiple pregnancy

Should my hCG level be checked routinely?

It is not common for doctors to routinely check your hCG levels unless you are showing signs of a possible problem. A health care provider may recheck your levels if you are bleeding, experiencing severe cramping, or have a history of miscarriage.

What can I expect of my hCG levels after a pregnancy loss?

Most women can expect their levels to return to a non-pregnant range about 4 - 6 weeks after a pregnancy loss has occurred. This can differentiate by how the loss occurred (spontaneous miscarriage, D & C procedure, abortion, natural delivery) and how high the levels were at the time of the loss. Health care providers usually will continue to test hCG levels after a pregnancy loss to ensure they return back to <5.0

Can anything interfere with my hCG levels?

Nothing should interfere with an hCG level except medications that contain hCG. These medications are often used in fertility treatments, and your health care provider should advise you on how they may affect a test. All other medications such as antibiotics, pain relievers, contraception or other hormone medications should not have any effect on a test that measures hCG.

Fetal Life-Support System: Placenta, Umbilical Cord, & Amniotic Sac

The baby develops in the uterus with a life support system for the fetus and is composed of umbilical cord, placenta and amniotic fluid which is filled of amniotic fluid. The placenta is a pancake shaped organ and is attached to the uterus. The placenta is connected to fetus with the help of the umbilical cord. Hormones that are related to pregnancy are produced by the placenta that includes estrogen, progesterone and chronic gonadotropin.

Role of the placenta

The responsibility of the placenta is to act as a point of trade between the circulatory system of the mother and the baby. There are several small blood vessels that carry the blood form the fetus and goes through the placenta that is full of the mother’s blood. The waste products of the fetus are transferred to the mother’s blood. The two blood supplies do not mix with each other. After the birth of the baby the placenta is expelled from the body of the mother and this process is called after-birth. There may be some complications of the placenta due to pregnancy the most common of which is placenta previa. In this the placenta is attached over or near the cervix. With the growth of the fetus there is pressure on the placenta and due to this reason there may be bleeding. If this condition occurs there is need for medical care so that one can be ensured of a safe labor for the baby.

Role of the umbilical cord

The umbilical cord is called the life line and it is through this cord that the placenta and the fetus are attached to each other. There are three blood vessels in the umbilical cord. There are two small arteries and a vein. The arteries carry blood to and from the placenta and the vein returns blood. This cord can grow to a length of 60 cm which allows the baby to have enough space to move safely without damaging the placenta or the umbilical cord. After the birth of the baby an incision is made in the cord so that the baby can be removed from the mother. The remaining portion of the cord heals and the belly button of the baby is formed. During the time of pregnancy it can be found that the umbilical cord is in the form of a knot or at times this cord is wrapped around the body of the baby. This is a common phenomenon and there is no prevention for this. This does not pose any risk or threat to the baby or the mother.

Amniotic sac

Another important life support system for the baby is the amniotic sac that is filled with fluids and is the home for the baby. It protects the fetus from shocks and other pressures. This sac allows the fetus good amount of space so that it can move around and in the process helps in building the muscles of the baby.

Calculating Your Dates of Pregnancy

Gestational age, or the age of the baby, is calculated from the first day of the mother’s last menstrual period. Since the exact date of conception is almost never known, the first day of the last menstrual period is used to measure how old the baby is. Use our Pregnancy Calculator to calculate your conception, gestation, and due dates.

Calculating Gestational Age:

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  Last Menstrual Period:
  If the mother has a regular period and knows the first day of her last menstrual period, gestational age can be calculated from this date. Gestational age is calculated from the first day of the mother’s last menstrual period and not from the date of conception.


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  Ultrasound:
  The baby can be measured as early as 5 or 6 weeks after the mother’s last menstrual period. Measuring the baby using ultrasound is most accurate in early pregnancy. It becomes less accurate later in pregnancy. The best time to estimate gestational age using ultrasound is between the 8th and 18th weeks of pregnancy. The most accurate way to determine gestational age is using the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period and confirming this gestational age with the measurement from an ultrasound exam.

Calculating Conception Date:

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  In a Typical Pregnancy:
  In a woman with a regular period, conception typically occurs about 2 weeks after the first day of the last period. Most women do not know the exact date of conception, and their conception date is merely an estimate based on the first day of their last period.
  
  
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  Special Cases:
  Women who undergo special procedures such as artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization typically know the exact date of conception.

Calculating Due Date:

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  Estimated Due Date:
  Based on the last menstrual period, the estimated due date is 40 weeks from the first day of the period. This is just an estimate since only about 5% of babies are born on their estimated due date.

Difficulties in Determining Gestational Age:

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  Last menstrual period:
  For women who have irregular menstrual periods or women who cannot remember the first day of their last menstrual period, it can be difficult to determine gestational age using this method. In these cases, an ultrasound exam is often required to determine gestational age.
  
  
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  Baby’s Growth:
  It is difficult to determine the gestational age in some cases because the baby is unusually large or small. Also in some cases the size of the uterus in early pregnancy or the height of the uterus in later pregnancy does not match the first day of the last menstrual period. In these cases as well, it is difficult to obtain an accurate gestational age.

PreConception Health for Men

As couples prepare for pregnancy, it is easy to focus only on the woman’s health. However, there are several habits men need to be forming during these critical months of preparation, too. Issues of fertility do not rest solely on the female. According to the Organization of Teratology Information Services (OTIS), "Agents that may cause birth defects do not reach the developing fetus through the father as they do from the pregnant mother." But we do know that male exposure to certain things can lead to some preliminary problems with fertility and also slighly elevate the risk of certain birth defects.

Male fertility factors contribute to approximately 50% of all infertility cases, and male infertility alone accounts for approximately one-third of all infertility cases. Should fertility issues arise, you will be one step ahead by beginning now with some simple steps to be in the best physical condition to conceive.

Make an appointment with your doctor

It’s time to find a care provider you feel comfortable with and get started with a pre-conception appointment.

Clean out the medicine cabinet

Eliminate as many medications from your routine as possible. Talk with your physician about your prescription medications. You may need to discontinue use or try something new. The following medications have been known to impact male fertility:

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  Tagamet (cimetidine), sulfasalazine, or nitrofurantoin are used to treat ulcers, gastrointestinal problems, and urinary tract infections. These medications may impact sperm production and sperm count.


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  Steroids, such as prednisone and cortisone, which are used to treat asthma, arthritis and skin conditions, impact male fertility.


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  Chemotherapy and radiation could cause sterility or a significant change in sperm quality and quantity.

Take a good look at your work environment

Your work environment may be a contributing factor to your fertility. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, ongoing exposure to certain things like pesticides, chemical fertilizers, lead, nickel, mercury, chromium, ethylene glycol ethers, petrochemicals, benzene, perchloroethylene, and radiation can lower sperm quality, quantity and possibly lead to infertility or miscarriage.

Eat and Sleep

Few and far between are the men who would be opposed to this. What you eat can make a difference. Find out what your proper weight range should be and make the necessary dietary and exercise changes to get there. Studies suggest that some men with low sperm count also have a zinc deficiency. The following foods are high in zinc and could increase your fertility: meat, wholegrain cereals, seafood, and eggs. Selenium, which is found in Brazil nuts, meat, seafood, mushrooms and cereals, has also been found to aid in fertility. Adding more vitamin E may also help the process along. Getting plenty of Z’sss is good for everything that ails you, even low sperm counts and sperm quality.

Avoid alcohol and other substances

Eliminate alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and any illicit drugs. Too much alcohol may reduce zinc levels, and drugs decrease sperm quality. There is some research being done that may link smoking and certain rare heart defects, but further studies must be done to make an accurate conclusion. Marijuana has been proven to affect sperm quality and sperm count, but there is no evidence that shows that marijuana causes birth defects.

Keep your testicles cool

Heat from hot tubs, saunas, hot, long showers ( more than 30 minutes), heating pads, electric blankets, and tight clothing like briefs and spandex could cause your testicles to become too hot which decreases sperm quantity.

Stay away from cycling for a while

Cycling can cause a lot of friction and jostling, which increases the temperature of your testicles. The rise in temperature and possibility of injury may exacerbate low sperm count.

The above may sound like a long list of “don’ts”. Here’s a list of “do’s” that might keep you going when the going gets tough:

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  Do keep in mind that you are getting healthy along the way and preventing many other major medical complications.
  
  
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  Do take a multivitamin, male fertility supplement or even a pre-natal vitamin
  
  
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  Consider taking an at home fertility test to give you more peace of mind. The Fertell kit provides testing for both men and women.
  
  
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  Do enjoy sex and romance like you used to. It’s easy to think of sex as a chore while trying to get pregnant. Remember there is more to it than just making a baby.
  
  
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  Do be romantic. Life will change (in a good way) after a baby comes. But it will never be just like it is now. Enjoy every moment together.

PreConception Health for Women

Pregnancy should not be considered only a 9 month journey but as a year long journey. Knowing that the first few weeks of pregnancy are the most vital to the development of the baby, a mother should be healthy and avoid any harmful activities and substances near the time of conception. Some habits are harder to break, and some health issues take longer to address. Getting a jump start will be beneficial to you and your baby. Following these simple guidelines can help you prepare for pregnancy. Before you become pregnant you want to make sure that you cut out any habits that are harmful for your baby. These habits include:

Smoking - Smoking during pregnancy is estimated to account for 20 to 30 percent of low-birth weight babies, up to 14 percent of preterm deliveries, and about 10 percent of all infant deaths according to the American Lung Association.

Drinking Alcohol - There is no safe amount of alcohol to consume while you are pregnant.

Recreational drug use – For example, smoking marijuana during pregnancy can increase the chance of miscarriage, low birth-weight, premature births, developmental delays, and behavioral and learning problems.

Prescription drugs – There are many prescription drugs that are teratogenic (cause birth defects). Talk with your healthcare provider about any and all prescription drugs you are taking.

Hazardous chemicals – There are some chemicals that can also be teratogenic. For example, most studies point out that the greatest risk of exposure to pesticides is during the first three to eight weeks of the first trimester when the neural tube development is occurring. This is often before a woman knows she is pregnant.

Stress – Stress has been linked to delayed or missed periods which can cause difficulty tracking ovulation and getting pregnant. Limit your amount of stress as much as possible.

Herbs – The problem with herbs is that they are not mandated by the FDA, and therefore, there is little or no research on the effect they have on pregnancy. Discuss any herbs with your healthcare provider.

Caffeine - Some studies have shown a link between high levels of caffeine consumption and delayed conception. A few studies have shown that there may be an increase in miscarriages among women who consume more than 300 mg (three 5 oz cups of coffee) a day.

You should replace these old habits with new healthy habits. These healthy habits include:

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  Exercise – Start exercising now. Set goals for what you want to achieve. Ask yourself if you want to lose weight, gain weight, build muscle, or improve lung capacity. Some good exercise options include walking, swimming, bicycling, and aerobics. Yoga is an excellent choice for exercise because it incorporates posture, breathing, and concentration which will be beneficial for you during labor. Talk with your healthcare provider about what is best for you.


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  Read – Read books on pregnancy and child birth. It is important that you are educated and prepared.


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  Track your menstrual cycle – This is very important. Your doctor will ask you about your menstrual cycle, so you need to be prepared. Keeping track of your cycle will also help you track your ovulation and increase your chance of pregnancy. Products to Help Track Ovulation


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  Practice relaxation techniques – Relaxation can help minimize stress, and as you have already read, stress is not a woman’s best friend. Try Yoga or listening to soft relaxing music in a warm bath.


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  Get lots of sleep – If you are not receiving 8 hours of sleep a night, you should start. Adequate amounts of sleep can also help relieve stress and tension.


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  Eat healthy – Nutrition is vital to your health. The healthier you are the easier pregnancy will be for you. Some people like to take supplements. Order Fertility Supplements

Nutrition

You are what you eat, and so is your baby. Make sure that you are getting lots of vitamins in your diet, and start taking folic acids now. Studies have shown that folic acid (300-400mcg a day) can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects when taken before conception. Order Prenatal Vitamins with folic acid.

For more information on the suggested amount of vitamins to consume during pregnancy (which is the same for preconception) look at our chart on Essential Nutrients & Vitamins.

Maintain an ideal weight

Your weight plays a significant role in conception and during pregnancy. When planning to conceive you want to avoid being over or under weight.

Underweight (10% below normal range)

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  Exercise to build muscle
  
  
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  Increase energy intake
  
  
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  Eat at least three meals a day
  
  
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  Eat more food at each meal
  
  
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  Eat more snacks
  
  
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  Drink juices and milk

Overweight (20% above normal range)

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  Choose a realistic eating plan
  
  
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  Make sure your eating plan includes nutritional adequacy
  
  
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  Drink adequate amounts of water
  
  
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  Combine your eating plan with exercise

Discuss any plans for weight loss or gain with your healthcare provider.

Make a doctor’s appointment

It is important that you see your doctor before you become pregnant. There are medical conditions that you may not be aware of that can affect your pregnancy. Some of the most common conditions include:

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  Diabetes – If you are diabetic you should get your diabetes under control. Pregnancy increases the chances of diabetes, and it can make it hard for a mother who is already suffering from diabetes.
  
  
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  High blood pressure – If you have high blood pressure before pregnancy, you must closely monitor your blood pressure during pregnancy.
  
  
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  Anemia – A complete blood count (CBC) can measure your hemoglobin, red & white blood cell count, and the appearance of your platelets. Anemia can cause weakness and fatigue during pregnancy.
  
  
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  Thyroid problems – The test consists of a blood test which measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Hyperthyroidism (overactive) can lead to premature birth and low birth weight if left untreated. Hypothyroidism (underactive) can lead to infertility or miscarriage when left untreated.
  
  
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  STDs – For example, chlamydia can result in an ectopic pregnancy if you conceive. If you are not pregnant, and it is left untreated, it can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID); this can cause infertility.

Other testing and screening that is common during a preconception health check up are:

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  Pap Smear – A pap smear can check for cervical dysplasia.
  
  
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  Breast exam – If over the age of 35, you may receive a mammogram.
  
  
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  Blood type – If you are RH negative you will have to be desensitized prior to labor.
  
  
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  Immunity to Rubella (measles) – The March of Dimes recommends that all women be tested for immunity to rubella before they become pregnant and that they consider being vaccinated at that time if they are not immune. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that a woman wait at least 4 weeks after receiving the vaccination before trying to conceive.
  
  
• 
  
  Immunity to Varicella (chicken pox) – As with rubella it is recommended that all women be tested for immunity to varicella before they become pregnant and that they consider being vaccinated at that time if they are not immune. The CDC recommends that a woman wait at least 4 weeks before trying to conceive after receiving the vaccination.

At your appointment you will also be asked for your medical and family history.

Medical history may include:

• 
  
  Medications you take
  
  
• 
  
  Past pregnancies
  
  
• 
  
  Diet
  
  
• 
  
  Exercise
  
  
• 
  
  Medical conditions

Family history may include:

• 
  
  Diabetes
  
  
• 
  
  High blood pressure
  
  
• 
  
  Seizure disorders
  
  
• 
  
  Mental retardation
  
  
• 
  
  Twins

Some couples may also need to seek Genetic Counseling. For the majority of couples, genetic counseling is not necessary .

PreConception Nutrition

Body Weight and Fertiliy

Being a healthy body weight is important before pregnancy. If you’re underweight, it can be more difficult to conceive and if you’re overweight, you run a greater risk of complications such as high blood pressure and diabetes during pregnancy.

The ideal range is usually calculated using the body mass index (BMI) of 20 to 25. Take steps either to try to lose or gain weight where necessary, in a sensible way - crash dieting will not be good for your overall health and may deplete your nutrient stores.

Even a small weight loss can greatly increase your ability to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy. If you’re concerned about your weight, you may find it useful to speak to your doctor or practice nurse for further advice.

Folic Acid

Taking folic acid before and in the very early stages of pregnancy can reduce the risk of your baby suffering from neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida. Women of childbearing age who may become pregnant should take a supplement that provides 400mcg folic acid per day. This is in addition to a dietary intake of folic acid of about 200mcg per day.

Once pregnant, women should continue taking a 400mcg supplement for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Rich dietary sources include fortified breakfast cereals, bread, green leafy vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach and green beans), oranges, dried beans, peas and lentils. Some supermarkets and food manufacturers identify good sources of folic acid with a special label. Look out for these next time you go shopping.

Women who’ve already had an NTD-affected pregnancy should take a supplement that provides 5mg a day. See your doctor for more information.

Supplements

Ideally, you shouldn’t need a vitamin and mineral supplement (apart from folic acid) if you’re eating a healthy diet. However, if you want to take a supplement, choose a specially formulated prenatal multivitamin and mineral supplement. These are more likely to provide nutrients in balanced amounts, not high doses that may be dangerous to your health.

Dads Too

Being super-fit and healthy is also important for men who are hoping to conceive. There have been numerous research studies looking at preconceptual nutrition in men. We know that diets low in zinc can reduce sperm counts, while excessive alcohol intake can reduce zinc levels even further. Zinc is found in food such as meat, wholegrain cereals, seafood, eggs and pulses.

Another nutrient that has a role in male fertility is selenium. Brazil nuts contain lots of this important mineral, along with meat, seafood, mushrooms and cereals. As with women, being very overweight or underweight can influence your fertility significantly. Aim to be the right weight for your height by eating sensibly and exercising on a regular basis.

The key message is to stick firmly within the alcohol limits - or reduce them further - and embark on a healthy-eating regime to ensure you and your sperm are in tip-top condition. Don’t expect results overnight - better quality sperm will result in about three months, the length of the sperm production cycle.

Plan well in advance of the intended time of conception. Each day, simply choose food from each of the major food groups, as outlined in nutrition basics This will help you ensure you have a diet packed with energy-giving carbohydrates, moderate in protein and fat (but low in saturated fat) and rich in vitamins and minerals.

The importance of good nutrition

Following a healthy diet will ensure you have adequate stores of nutrients to meet your and your baby’s needs during pregnancy. Follow the principles of healthy eating and choose appropriately from the major food groups, making sure you have a well-balanced and varied diet:

Food group	Number of servings a day
Starchy carbohydrates, such as bread, breakfast cereals, porridge oats, rice, pasta and potatoes	5 to 7
Fruit and vegetables - all types, fresh, juiced, frozen or canned	At least 5
Milk and dairy products, for instance, low-fat milk, yoghurt and cheese	2 to 3
Meat, fish and alternatives, for example, lean meat, poultry, eggs, white fish, oily fish, peas, beans and pulses	2
Fat and sugar rich foods, such as butter, margarine, cooking fats, pastries, cream, crisps, cakes, chocolate, sugary drinks, biscuits and sweets	Keep to a minimum

5 Major Questions about Pregnant Momz

1. Talk About Your Feelings

The MOST important thing you can do for yourself is take care of your emotions. Keeping things bottled up inside doesn’t help anyone - baby included!

So, make sure you have someone to talk to, whether it’s a support group, friends or family. This will even help you avoid emotional eating and gaining excess unnecessary weight!

2. Establish Routines

Routines give us order and help us stay focused. They also help to "fight" procrastination, excuses, and negativity. Include things like going for daily walks, cooking meals, eating at regular times, and socializing with friends.

3. Prepare Healthy Meals

Give yourself time to prepare healthy meals - eating a well-balanced diet will help you stabilize your blood sugar levels and even out your mood swings!

4. Exercise Regularly

Move your muscles more (if you can)! Think about it this way - exercise delivers oxygen to your brain, so when you’re feeling tired, a quick walk around the block WILL work wonders.

Even if you feel like you don’t have the energy to exercise, get off the couch and stretch - you will feel much better (and more energetic) afterwards!

5. Rest Daily

Make rest a regular part of your day. I know it’s hard to take time for yourself (especially in today’s fast paced world), but now that you’re pregnant, you and your baby NEED your beauty sleep!

For LOTS more TIPS on how to have a successful pregnancy, including which specific exercises you need to do to prepare for an easy delivery and quick post-partum weight loss, as well as which foods are safe to eat and what beauty measures will help you prevent things like stretch marks and varicose veins

Are Your Symptoms NORMAL?

With all the changes going on in your body, do you ever wonder, "Hmmm, is this normal? Is that normal? Should this be happening to my body?"

I literally get HUNDREDS of emails every week from women asking all kinds of questions – whether they’re either too embarrassed to ask a close friend/Doctor or if they just can’t find a straight answer.

To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of the TOP 5 most frequently asked questions so YOU can see if YOUR symptoms are in fact normal before you have to ask embarrassing questions. Plus I’ll also discuss the SECRET to a successful all-round pregnancy – keep reading, you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Here are my TOP 5 "Am I Normal" Answers...

1. Yes, it IS normal for pregnant woman to have a little discharge. Wearing a pad and cotton underwear is the best solution. If you’re at all concerned, though, be sure to consult your doctor. This condition shouldn’t last long, so just hold tight.

2. Yes, it IS normal to develop pregnancy acne on your face. It should clear up after delivery when your hormones finally calm down. In the meantime, keep your face clean and NEVER stick your fingers in your foundation, or other skin care products because bacteria will fester in the bottles, causing more acne.

3. Yes, as much as it is normal to have a huge appetite during pregnancy, believe it or not, many women also experience NO appetite during pregnancy. You do want to make sure little one is getting all she needs, so eating a healthy well-balanced diet is a must.

4. Yes, it IS normal to have groin pain. However, I do think it would be a good idea to check in with your doctor. In the meantime, avoid exercises that involve jerky movements and/or rapid changes in direction (i.e. basketball, squash, and tennis) it will only make the situation worse.

5. Yes, it IS normal to have nosebleeds and bleeding gums (I had LOTS of nosebleeds!). Don’t worry though, both WILL stop after you deliver! For nosebleeds, try using a humidifier at night or putting Vaseline around your nostrils. And for bleeding gums, DO check with your dentist to rule out any larger problems (pregnancy gingivitis or a pregnancy gum tumor), and DO make sure to brush and floss your teeth daily.

If one of your MAJOR questions is “Am I gaining too much weight?” or “How am I going to lose my baby weight after delivery?”, I definitely have the answer for you! This blog is designed to help new moms like you melt your pregnancy pounds from the moment you leave the hospital.

Pregnancy Tests - Urine and Blood

How do pregnancy tests work?

Pregnancy tests look for a special hormone in the urine or blood that is only there when a woman is pregnant. This hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), can also be called the pregnancy hormone.

The pregnancy hormone, hCG, is made in your body when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. This usually happens about 6 days after conception. But studies show that the embryo doesn’t implant until later in some women. The amount of hCG increases drastically with each passing day you are pregnant.

Many home pregnancy tests claim they can tell if you’re pregnant on the day you expect your period. But a recent study shows that most don’t give accurate results this early in pregnancy. Waiting one week after a missed period will usually give a more accurate answer.

What’s the difference between pregnancy tests that check urine and those that test blood? Which one is better?

There are two types of pregnancy tests. One tests the blood for the pregnancy hormone, hCG. The other checks the urine for this hormone. You can do a urine test at home with a home pregnancy test. You need to see a doctor to have blood tests.

These days, most women first use home pregnancy tests (HPT) to find out if they are pregnant. HPTs are inexpensive, private, and easy to use. Urine tests will be able to tell if you’re pregnant about 2 weeks after ovulation. Some more sensitive urine tests claim that they can tell if you are pregnant as early as one day after a missed period.

If a HPT says you are pregnant, you should call your doctor right away. You doctor can use a more sensitive test along with a pelvic exam to tell for sure if you’re pregnant. Seeing your doctor early on in your pregnancy will help you and your baby stay healthy.

Doctors use two types of blood tests to check for pregnancy. Blood tests can pick up hCG earlier in a pregnancy than urine tests can. Blood tests can tell if you are pregnant about 6 to 8 days after you ovulate (or release an egg from an ovary). A quantitative blood test (or the beta hCG test) measures the exact amount of hCG in your blood. So it can find even tiny amounts of hCG. This makes it very accurate. Qualitative hCG blood tests just check to see if the pregnancy hormone is present or not. So it gives a yes or no answer. The qualitative hCG blood test is about as accurate as a urine test.

There are many different types of home pregnancy tests, or HPTs. Most drugstores sell HPTs over-the-counter. They cost between $8 and $20 depending on the brand and how many tests come in the box.

Most popular HPTs work in a similar way. The majority tell the user to hold a stick in the urine stream. Others involve collecting urine in a cup and then dipping the stick into it. At least one brand tells the woman to collect urine in a cup and then put a few drops into a special container with a dropper. Testing the urine first thing in the morning may help boost accuracy.

Then the woman needs to wait a few minutes. Different brands instruct the woman to wait different amounts of time. Once the time has passed, the user should inspect the "result window." If a line or plus symbol appears, you are pregnant. It does not matter how faint the line is. A line, whether bold or faint, means the result is positive.

Most tests also have a "control indicator" in the result window. This line or symbol shows whether the test is working or not. If the control indicator does not appear, the test is not working properly. You should not rely on any results from a HPT that may be faulty.

Most brands tell users to repeat the test in a few days, no matter what the results. One negative result (especially soon after a missed period) does not always mean you’re not pregnant. All HPTs come with written instructions. Most tests also have toll-free phone numbers to call incase of questions about use or results.

How accurate are home pregnancy tests?

Home pregnancy tests (HPTs) can be quite accurate. But the accuracy depends on many things. These include:

• 
  
  How you use them - Be sure to follow the directions and check the expiration date.


• 
  
  When you use them - The amount of hCG or pregnancy hormone in your urine increases with time. So, the earlier after a missed period you take the test the harder it is to spot the hCG. If you wait one week after a missed period to test, you are more apt to have an accurate result. Also, testing your urine first thing in the morning may boost the accuracy.


• 
  
  Who uses them - The amount of hCG in the urine is different for every pregnant woman. So, some women will have accurate results on the day of the missed period while others will need to wait longer.


• 
  
  The brand of test - Some home pregnancy tests are more sensitive than others. So, some tests are better than others at spotting hCG early on.

Many HPTs claim to be 99% accurate on the day you miss your period. But research suggests that most HPTs do not consistently spot pregnancy that early. And when they do, the results are often very faint.

In a 2004 study, researchers tested the accuracy of 18 HPTs sold in retail stores. They found that only one brand consistently detected the low levels of hCG usually present on the first day of the missed period. This was the First Response, Early Result Pregnancy Test. The other tests missed up to 85% of pregnancies on the first day of the missed period. Most tests accurately confirmed pregnancies one week after the missed period.

Which brand of pregnancy test is the most accurate?

Some brands of tests can pick up lower levels of hCG than others. But limited research makes it impossible to say for sure which one is the best. Even so, two studies suggest that First Response, Early Result Pregnancy Test may be more sensitive than others. So for women who want test early, this is probably the best product.

How soon after a missed period can I take a home pregnancy test and get accurate results?

Many home pregnancy tests (HPTs) claim to be 99% accurate on the day you miss your period. But research suggests that most HPTs do not consistently spot pregnancy that early. And when they do, the results are often so faint they are misunderstood. If you can wait one week after your missed period, most home pregnancy tests will give you an accurate answer. Ask your doctor for a more sensitive test if you need to know earlier.

When a home pregnancy test will give an accurate result depends on many things. These include:

• 
  
  How long it takes for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus after ovulation. Pregnancy tests look for the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) that is only produced once the fertilized egg has implanted in the uterine wall. In most cases, this happens about 6 days after conception. But studies show that in up to 10 percent of women, the embryo doesn’t implant until much later, after the first day of the missed period. So, home pregnancy tests will be accurate as soon as one day after a missed period for some women but not for others.
  
  
• 
  
  How you use them - Be sure to follow the directions and check the expiration date.
  
  
• 
  
  When you use them - The amount of hCG in a pregnant woman’s urine increases with time. So, the earlier after a missed period you take a HPT, the harder it is to spot the hCG. If you wait one week after a missed period to test, you are more apt to have an accurate result. Also, testing your urine first thing in the morning may boost the accuracy.
  
  
• 
  
  Who uses them - The amount of hCG in the urine at different points in early pregnancy is different for every woman. So, some women will have accurate results on the day of the missed period while others will need to wait longer.
  
  
• 
  
  The brand of test - Some home pregnancy tests are more sensitive than others. So, some tests are better than others at spotting hCG early on.

I got a negative result on a home pregnancy test. Might I still be pregnant?

Yes. So, most HPTs suggest women take the test again in a few days or a week.

Every woman ovulates at different times in her menstrual cycle. Plus, embryos implant in the uterus at different times. So, the accuracy of HPT results varies from woman to woman. Other things can also affect the accuracy.

Sometimes women get false negative results (when the test says you are not pregnant and you are) when they test too early in the pregnancy. Other times, problems with the pregnancy can affect the amount of hCG in the urine.

If your HPT is negative, test yourself again in a few days or 1 week. If you keep getting a negative result but think you are pregnant, talk with your doctor right away.

Can anything interfere with home pregnancy test results?

Most medicines, over-the-counter and prescription, including birth control pills and antibiotics, should not affect the results of a home pregnancy test. Only medicines that have the pregnancy hormone hCG in them can give a false positive test result. A false positive is when a test says you are pregnant when you’re not.

Sometimes medicines containing hCG are used to treat infertility (not being able to get pregnant). Alcohol and illegal drugs do not affect HPT results. But women who may become pregnant should not use these substances.

Taking a Pregnancy Test

Taking a pregnancy test can be filled with excitement for some people, whereas for others it may be a little intimidating. Before you take a pregnancy test, you might check to see if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms. A missed menstrual cycle is the most common symptom leading a woman to take a pregnancy test. Below are several answers to common questions related to taking a pregnancy test.

How does a test tell if you are pregnant or not?

A pregnancy test detects the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your blood or in your urine. hCG is produced in the placenta shortly after the embryo attaches to the uterine lining and builds up rapidly in your body in the first few days of pregnancy.

How long do I have to wait before I take a test?

Most doctors recommend that you wait until the first day of your missed period before taking a home pregnancy test. A missed period is usually one of the first signs of pregnancy. This is usually around two weeks after conception. However, some tests are more sensitive (and more expensive) than others and can be taken earlier. Concentrations of hCG are reported in milliInternational Units (mIU) or amounts equal to 1/1000th of an IU per milliliter. A pregnancy test with a sensitivity of 20 IU/L is more sensitive than one with 50 IU/L.

A blood test administered by your doctor is more sensitive than the early home tests and can be taken between seven and twelve days after you conceive. ( It is possible that these tests can be done too early and show a false negative result.) If you receive a negative result and still do not start your period, another test should be done.

How accurate are home tests?

Home tests are very accurate (around 97%) when used correctly. Some kits come with two tests because mistakes do happen.

If you take a test too early, you may get a false negative (when the test says you are not pregnant but you are). Your body needs time for the hormone to rise to a high enough level to be detected in a test. If the test comes back negative but you still think you could be pregnant, wait a few days and try again.

False positives (when the test says you’re pregnant but you’re not) are possible, but rare. A positive pregnancy test is a pretty good indication that you are pregnant.

Pregnanacy Symptoms

Some women sail through pregnancy with only very minor signs or symptoms, whereas others seem to have it all. If this is you, don’t be afraid. There are many things you can do to ease the effect your pregnancy symptoms have on you. Also, take comfort in the fact that many of the things described below will disappear by the early portion of your second trimester. Most likely, you won’t experience any symptoms of pregnancy until about the time you’ve missed your period or shortly thereafter.

If you start to experience one or many of the symptoms below and you haven’t had a period for a while, you may very well be pregnant. Take a home pregnancy test and find out for sure. It’s best to wait until at least the first day of a missed period before you take a pregnancy test. If it’s negative, try another test again in a few days. Once you have a positive result, make an appointment with your practitioner and head on over to our Stages of Pregnancy section.

Missed Period

Among the first signs of pregnancy is a missed period. If you have missed your period, then home pregnancy test kits can help determine if you are indeed pregnant. These tests measure the levels of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin or hCG. This is secreted in large amounts if you are pregnant and can be found in your urine.

It is best to purchase an ultra-sensitive home test. The most sensitive tests register below 20 mIU/ml and can detect pregnancy as early as six to eight days after conception. Tests that are less sensitive can often be incorrect. Others may not be able to detect pregnancy if they are performed on the first day of a missed period. It is best to determine if you are pregnant as soon as possible so you can start taking care of yourself.

Reasons for a Missed Period

Pregnancy is the most common reason for a missed period.
During breastfeeding you may find that you will miss your period. However, it is important to realize that you can still get pregnant during this time. Certain medical conditions can cause you to miss your period, with it resuming when you are healthy again. If you have a co-existing illness that may be causing you to miss your period, see your medical doctor.

Excessive exercise.

Females who exercise excessively (e.g. marathon runners) will have periods of menstruation cessation. By reducing their exercise to more appropriate levels, they are usually able to return to normal cycles. Also, low body weight associated with excessive exercise or poor eating habits/malnutrition can cause disruptions in your cycle.
Birth control pills often cause some women to miss their period completely. Even after you stop taking the pill, you may experience aberrant menstrual cycles for three to six months.

Menopause.

As women approach menopause, their periods continue to get more and more irregular until they eventually stop completely.

Implantation Bleeding

Implantation bleeding is often confused for a period as it occurs at the same time as the expected period would occur. Since implantation bleeding is lighter than your normal period, it is also easy to mistake it for breakthrough bleeding or spotting. Implantation bleeding occurs when the trophoblast attaches itself to the endometrium and slowly starts eating away the lining, thereby causing implantation bleeding. It usually appears light pink or brown in color. How long it will last tends to vary from woman to woman. Although some women may refer to implantation bleeding as pregnancy spotting, they are not one and the same thing. Spotting in early pregnancy can occur for various reasons and is not necessarily implantation bleeding.

Pregnancy can be a difficult time for a woman, even more so if you’re going it alone. If you’re a single mom or single mom-to-be, then visit Pregnancy Stories to share your experience and words of advice with other single mothers.

Morning sickness

Although everyone talks about it, morning sickness only affects about 50% of women at some time during their pregnancy. Often, it may be the first sign that you are pregnant, but usually morning sickness won’t hit you until about a month after conception. Some women are sick all day while others just sick at night. The symptoms may vary form mild queasiness to vomiting. Typically, morning sickness tends to peak around eight to ten weeks, when your hormone levels are highest, and then will taper off as you begin your second trimester. A rare form of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition of uncontrollable nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that results in dehydration and acidosis. Using specially formatted tapes can help curb your nausea discomfort.

Breast soreness

As is common during your periods, breasts become extra sensitive during your pregnancy. This is caused by increasing levels of hormones that accompany pregnancy. These same hormones are present during your period but to a lesser degree, which is why you may also experience tender, swollen breasts during your period. This feeling typically diminishes significantly after the first trimester and goes away after the second trimester of your pregnancy.

Headaches

Due to the changes in your body, headaches are a common symptom of pregnancy. However, headaches alone are not a reliable sign of pregnancy since many other conditions exist that may cause headaches. A new headache should always be evaluated by your health care practitioner.

Bloating

Bloating is present both in pregnancy and prior to your period. It may be present immediately or within a few weeks.

Vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge with itching or burning may be a sign of an infection or a sexually transmitted disease. However, without itching or burning, a discharge may be present during pregnancy. This is due to the build up of mucous that is occurring in the cervix to create a plug in order to shield your developing baby from infections and other harmful things.

Fatigue

Changes in the hormones in your body, especially increased progesterone levels, may cause you to feel tired or even completely exhausted. Further, the extra effort that your body is exerting when starting to make and nurture a baby will magnify your fatigue. Once you hit your second trimester, your normal energy levels should return.

Bleeding or spotting

Some women experience a small amount of red, pink or reddish brown spotting. This is a normal sign and indicates that the fertilized egg is beginning to burrow into the lining of your uterus about six days after fertilization. However, if you also experience pain along with pregnany spotting or bleeding, call your doctor immediately as this can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.

Increased sensitivity to odors and foods

It is not uncommon to be overwhelmed by certain smells that you liked before or find that certain foods are now completely repulsive to you. Both of these signs may be a side effect of rapidly increasing estrogen in your system and may come and go or last throughout your pregnancy.

Frequent urination

With pregnancy, your body increases the amount of blood and other fluids which leads to extra fluid being filtered by your kidneys and ending up in your bladder. The result is that you may find yourself going to the bathroom at a much higher frequency than before. This may start as early as six weeks into your first trimester and remain or even get worse throughout your pregnancy.

Recommended Product

A home pregnancy test will help you learn quickly whether or not you’re pregnant. If you have the typical signs of pregnancy, using an ultra-sensitive pregnancy test will tell you what you need to know in the privacy of your own home.

Pregnancy and Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling is the process of determining the risk you have of passing on an inheritable disease to your baby. Genetic counseling involves a specially trained healthcare professional who identifies families at risk, investigates the problem present in the family, interprets information about the disorder, analyzes inheritance patterns and risks of recurrence, and reviews available options with the family.

Who should seek genetic counseling?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 3% of babies born in the United States will have a birth defect. Genetic counseling is not necessary for the majority of couples who are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant. Genetic counseling should be considered by couples who have one or more of the following risk factors:

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  Abnormal results are obtained from routine prenatal testing
  
  
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  Amniocentesis results identify a chromosomal defect
  
  
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  An inherited disease is present in a close family member
  
  
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  If either partner has already had a child with a birth defect or genetic disorder
  
  
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  If the mother is over 35 years old

The following represents some of the ethnic groups which have a greater chance for certain genetic defects:

Ethnic Group	Genetic Defect
African Americans	Sickle Cell Anemia
Central or Eastern Jews	Tay - Sachs disease
Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern	Thalassemia

What is involved in genetic counseling?

When you are working with a genetic counselor there are a number of things you should expect. You should start with your blood relatives on both sides to begin creating a comprehensive background on specific diseases and why they occurred. This is probably the most important piece of evaluating genetic risks.

To help facilitate this evaluation, your healthcare provider will probably ask some of the following questions:

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  Do you have a history of diabetes, hypertension, cancer or twins?
  
  
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  Are there any diseases that seem to run in your family?
  
  
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  Is there a history of genetic disease like cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, or muscular dystrophy?
  
  
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  Is there anyone with mental retardation or any kind of birth defect?
  
  
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  Have any of your sisters, cousins, or other relatives had problems with their pregnancies?
  
  
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  Are your parents alive, and are they healthy?
  
  
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  What is your ethnic background?
  
  
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  Is there any reason that you suspect that your baby may be born with a birth defect or other medical problem?


• 
  
  
  

  What are genes and chromosomes?

  
  

  A gene is a segment of DNA that is coded to pass along a certain trait; it has a specific task (i.e. determining the color of your eyes). Genes are the simplest building blocks of heredity. They are grouped together in specific patterns within a person’s chromosomes, forming the unique "blueprint" for every physical and biological characteristic of that person.

  
  

  Chromosomes are made up of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules. Humans have 46 chromosomes arranged in pairs in every living cell of our bodies. When the egg and sperm join at conception, half of each chromosomal pair is inherited from each parent.

  
  

  
  

  What causes genetic disorders?

  
  

  Genetic disorders may be caused by of a variety of reasons. Genetic disorders may be caused by abnormalities in the chromosomes, which are referred to as chromosomal abnormalities. Disorders may also be caused by a single gene, which may be identified as dominant, recessive or X-linked disorders.

  
  

  Dominant Disorders: One gene is defective and it overrides the normal gene

  
  

  Recessive Disorders: Both genes in the pair are defective

  
  

  X-linked Disorders: A defective gene is on an X chromosome, which may be recessive or dominant

  
  

  The following is a list of potential explanations for birth defects or genetic disorders:

  
  

  
  
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    Spontaneous mutation
    
    
  • 
    
    Errors in cell division
    
    
  • 
    
    Single gene changes because of environmental exposure to chemicals or radiation
    
    
  • 
    
    Defect in the development of the sperm or the egg
    
    
  • 
    
    Recreational drug use
    
    
  • 
    
    Exposure to lead or industrial chemicals

Pregnancy Problems

While every pregnant woman wishes for a healthy and full pregnancy, the reality is that in many cases pregnancy problems do arise. These complications can range from mild to severe, including general health concerns as well as those specific to pregnancy, and may result in pregnancy loss.

Luckily, there are some pregnancy risks factors that women can avoid in order to increase the chances of having a healthy pregnancy and child. Indeed, exposure to toxins such as cigarettes and alcohol is likely to affect both the mother as well as the baby’s health, the consequences of which may have lasting effects in the future.
Even if a mother avoids exposure to potentially dangerous substances, other unexpected pregnancy complications may arise. Knowing some of the signs and symptoms of these pregnancy concerns can help ensure early diagnosis and treatment of these potentially harmful conditions.

Pregnancy complications not only affect the mother’s health but may impact the health of her child. Our complications with baby section provides a useful guide for parents concerned with medical conditions that may affect their newborn baby.

Sexually transmitted diseases pose unique concerns during pregnancy, since these may affect an unborn child or be transmitted from mother to baby during birth. Find out about treatment options and health precautions that women can take when it comes to STDs and pregnancy.

Labor and Birth

Searching for information on labor and birth? Pregnant-Momz.blogspot.com provides you with all you need to know about preparing for the birth of your baby.

It’s never too early to start thinking about a birth plan. Preparing a birth plan is a great way in which to stay in control as much as possible of the type of labor experience you will have. A birth plan can include whether to have a home birth or a hospital birth or even a water birth. You may also want to consider keeping a pregnancy journal to record your thoughts and emotions.
Of course, it’s natural to be worried about the different stages of labor. Find out how to tell whether your contractions really mean you’re going into labor as well as other common signs of labor. Here you’ll also find out about when inducing labor is a good option and information on whether natural labor is right for you.

While they’re not always planned, Cesarean sections account for almost 30% of births in the United States. Learn about in which cases a Cesarean section is recommended over vaginal birth and how a Cesarean section affects your future pregnancies.

Yoga for Pregnant Momz

Pregnant woman sitting on the ground, stretching. Maybe she's doing yoga, or maybe she's stretching and focusing on the upcoming birth. Woman has one foot tucked in and the other out straight, so you can see the sole of her foot. Her arms are stretched above her head, palms touching. Her eyes are closed, as if meditating or focusing on relaxing. She's wearing gray sweatpants and a white sports bra; her belly and feet are bare

Introducing the New Baby to your Older Children

Bringing a new baby into the world is a wonderful experience. It can also be trying and difficult if you have other children at home. As you prepare for the birth of your new baby, here are some things you should keep in mind about introducing the new baby.

Equal Treatment - It is hard not to constantly dote on the new baby once you’re home. Be cautious about spending so much time with the new baby that you inadvertently ignore your other children. Try to set aside special time with each child. Talk about their day at school, or extracurricular activities they are involved in. Spend your special time focusing only on that particular child.

Reminisce - Now would be the perfect time to get out the picture albums and baby books from your older children. Set aside a special day just to go through the books. Talk about how you felt when each child was born. Share funny stories with them. Recollecting fond memories will bring your family closer and will show your other children that they are just as special as the newborn.

Get Them Involved - Let your children be involved in the caretaking of your new baby. Give each child a special responsibility. One child might be in charge of gathering the diaper-changing necessities, while another is in charge of warming the bottle. Your older children can take turns feeding the baby. Let your children be involved; however, don’t force them to participate if they don’t want to at first. Sometimes it takes a few days for children to “warm up” to the idea of a new baby being in the house.

Be Patient – Some children don’t take too well to a new sibling but be patient and know that you are doing the right things and that your older child will soon come around. Eventually your children may even be such good friends that you won’t even remember this time.

Swimming - Exercise for Pregnant Momz

Swimming is a wonderful way for pregnant women to exercise, and it's generally considered very safe. But check with your doctor or midwife before you take the plunge.

If you swam consistently before you got pregnant, you should be able to continue. If you didn't exercise at all, you should still be able to swim now — you'll just need to start slowly. Do some gentle stretching beforehand, do a few warm-up and cool down laps, and don't overexert. You'll learn how to work out at the appropriate intensity by listening to your body.

The water itself poses no risk to you or your baby: Research hasn't found any health hazards for healthy pregnant women from the bacteria, chlorine, or other chemicals in pools. But do skip the hot tub and sauna, as overheating can hamper the development of a growing fetus, according to various studies.

How to Mentally Prepare for your Labor

As your due date nears, you may be growing a bit anxious over the labor and delivery. Here are some ways you can mentally prepare for your labor.

Tip #1: Find Your “Happy Place”
Where is the one place that you feel most at peace? Maybe it’s a specific setting, like at your favorite café or sitting on a blanket in the middle of the park. Whatever or wherever you feel most at place is going to be your “happy place” in your mind. Practice focusing on that place where you feel calm and at peace with yourself. Hold those feelings for several minutes before you open your eyes. When you begin to feel anxious, close your eyes, take a deep breath and go to your happy place.

Tip #2: Envision a Calm Labor
Don’t let your mind run wild with all the stories you’ve heard other women talk about. Each labor is unique and much of it depends on how well you personally cope with it. What is the best possible way you would like your labor to go? Capture that in your mind. Think on it. Envision a happy, calm labor.

Tip #3: Practice Positive Thinking
It’s very easy to get wrapped up in negative thoughts about your labor. You’re already anxious about the coming day. Don’t allow negative thoughts to creep up and make you more nervous. Practice positive thinking. One way to do this is to speak positive affirmations every time you start thinking negative. Here are a few affirmations for you to practice:

- “I am strong and able to birth my child in a calm and positive environment.”
- “I can remain calm, even in the midst of this emotional time.”
- “I am the best mother for my child.”

Write your own positive affirmations and practice them daily.

Trying to Conceive after age 35

Many women today find themselves trying to conceive after the age of 35. This opportunity can be full of joys and riddled with new questions. Despite the challenges, many women in their thirties and forties successfully conceive.

What are some of the challenges to conceiving after 35?

The most common cause of age-related decline in fertility is less frequent ovulation. As women age, they begin to have occasional cycles where an egg is never released. Egg quality and quantity also declines in a woman’s 30s and 40s. Other reasons conceiving after 35 may be more difficult include:

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  Infection or surgery that caused scar tissue around the fallopian tubes or cervix


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  Endometriosis


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  Fibroids or uterine disorders


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  Decrease in cervical fluid


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  Chronic health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes

Miscarriage is also more common in women over 35. This is often caused by increased incidence of chromosomal abnormalities. Women aged 35-45 have a 20-35 % chance of miscarriage.

How can I increase my chance of conceiving after 35?

Trying to conceive after 35 may seem overwhelming, but there are many things you can do to make getting pregnant easier. Here are some things to remember:

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  Schedule a pre-conception appointment. You and your health care provider can review your medical history, current medications and overall lifestyle. This gives you the opportunity to address any concerns about trying to conceive after 35.
  
  
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  Women over 35 take longer to conceive. The average time it takes a couple over 35 to conceive is 1-2 years, so try to remain positive if you do not become pregnant immediately.
  
  
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  A woman who is physically, mentally and emotionally healthy is more likely to conceive. Alcohol, smoking and caffeine can negatively affect fertility. Being overweight or underweight can also affect fertility by interfering with hormone function.
  
  
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  Observing your fertility signs can tell you a lot about your body. Recording your basal body temperature and cervical fluid can help you pinpoint the best time to have intercourse while trying to conceive. These fertility signs can also reveal if you are ovulating regularly. Becoming familiar with your fertility will also help you discern between pending signs and symptoms of pregnancy.
  
  
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  Consider taking an at home fertility screening test.. There are over-the-counter tests that help screen for key elements either male or female fertility. Tere are testing kits like Fertell that provide initial screen for both men and women. This often gives couples a peace of mind as the move through the journey to conceive.
  
  
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  Visit your health care provider if you haven’t conceived after 6 months of purposeful intercourse. If you have not conceived after 6 months, contact your health care provider to discuss the possibility of fertility testing. You may decide to consult a fertility specialist at this time.

Pregnancy Journal for Your Baby

There are so many wonderful new products to help you create family keepsakes. Maybe you’re like me, technically challenged in the hobby/craft department or don’t have enough time to devote to one project. That’s when you need to get creative and expand on those things that may be around you, already.

If you’re pregnant, adopting or planning for the future family, you will no doubt be looking into a pregnancy journal. They come in all shapes and sizes with prices starting as low as $6.95 and increasing to $135 (and more!). Some are for creative writers with empty pages to fill to your heart’s content. Others have various ways to stimulate your thoughts with questions, quotes or phrases that you must complete. These are wonderful for people who find it challenging to document their thoughts and feelings.

Another choice you have are software journals. More of the journals in this format are provided free on the Internet and allow you to customize the look and feel of your journal. When completed, you can print your journal as a hardcopy.

The latest version of pregnancy journals are software applications you use on your computer. You have complete privacy and you’re assured the information you enter won’t be lost if a server on the Internet crashes. In addition to typing your story into a page, you have the ability to upload your personal images and record audio messages to your baby.

All of these journals are available for you to review and decide which is for you. Are you a prolific writer? Then of course, you would want the journal with mostly blank pages to allow you enough room to complete everything you want to record. If you’re unsure how to start your journal, choose one that provides you with ideas or questions. If you’re an avid software or Internet user, you would definitely enjoy using one of the Internet or software applications available, allowing you to type all your information, instead of writing by hand.

Whatever you choose, your pregnancy journal is a keepsake to be cherished by your new baby. It should include your thoughts, feeling, wishes and dreams throughout the pregnancy period. During this time of high emotions, you will be completely convinced you will never forget a moment of the experience. But as the years roll by, you do forget and by the time your child is ready and anxious to learn about his or her birth, precious details of events, conversations and moments shared are forgotten.

Forgotten, until you retrieve your pregnancy journal and are reminded of all these precious memories. Memories your child and their family will cherish for a lifetime.