Pregnancy Symptoms, Trimesters and Information Guides
Healthy pregnancies start before a mother becomes pregnant, even before they consider motherhood.
Women may benefit from basic pre-pregnancy planning and regular visits with their health care provider. Prenatal care visits are important to both the baby and the mother. There are some things that a mother might do when they are pregnant that could harm their baby, to include drinking or smoking. Certain medications may also be a problem, including ones that a doctor has prescribed. It is important to eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids. Early in the pregnancy, a mother might experience nausea or morning sickness, or need more rest.
The average pregnancy lasts approximately forty weeks, grouped into three trimesters. During the first trimester, a mother's body experiences a number of changes. A mother's hormones change and affect nearly every organ system in their body. The changes may initiate symptoms, even in the first weeks of the pregnancy.
The majority of women feel the second trimester of pregnancy is easier than the first one. It is important to remain informed about pregnancy during this trimester. A mother may notice symptoms such as fatigue and nausea are not disappearing and new, more noticeable changes to their body are occurring. A mother's abdomen will expand as their baby grows; before the second trimester is over they will feel their baby starting to move.
The third trimester may bring some of the same discomforts a mother experienced during the second trimester. In addition, many women can find it more difficult to breathe and notice they have to use the bathroom more often because their baby is getting bigger and placing more pressure on their organs. Not to worry, the baby is fine and these issues will lessen after the baby is born.
Motherhood is one of life's greatest responsibilities and joys. By doing everything you can to prepare for parenthood now, before your baby is born, the transition to parenthood can be a lot easier. Things you can do include pursing education related to:
- Circumcision
- Baby furniture
- Breastfeeding
- Birthing and parenting
- Making your home safe
- Health care for your baby
As the due date approaches, look for any sign that labor is about to begin, no matter how small. Mothers may notice their baby has dropped, or moved into the lower part of their pelvis. A pelvic exam during a prenatal visit to a doctor can reveal changes to a mother's cervix they might not feel, yet suggest their body is getting ready.
Once the baby is born, spend the first hours of the baby's life letting your baby know your voice and study your face. The baby can see up to about two feet away. Babies are born with sucking and grasping reflexes; put your finger in the baby's palm. Feed your baby when they show signs of hunger.
Further Pregnancy Information:
Signs and Symptoms of Being Pregnant | Babies Due Date Calculator | Pregnancy Trimesters | Week by Week Guide to your Pregnancy
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