Pregnancy is the most thrilling period of a woman’s life; it marks remarkable changes in the woman’s body, both mental and physical. There is a great deal of excitement marked by anxiety and uncertainty, which accompanies these changes. However, a woman need not get unnecessarily worried and have sleepless nights. Knowing and appreciating these changes can help one lead a better life during these nine months.
During the first trimester, marked from conception to 12 or 14 weeks from the last normal menstrual cycle, a woman often experiences morning sickness (vomiting and nausea), tiredness, tender breast and frequent urination. Taking small frequent meals can be very helpful in preventing nausea. The mother-to-be may have alternate activity and rest periods. During this stage, walking is the most suitable physical activity.
Often considered as the “Golden Period” of pregnancy is the second trimester. During this stage, the physically demanding signs and symptoms of pregnancy have subsided. There are better sleep patterns, a paramount sign of advancement in the healthy pregnancy process. It is also during this time that the most joyful moment is experienced by the mother-to-be. The first heartbeat of the baby can be heard; moreover, an ultrasound usually done in around 19 weeks may make one feel the diverse movements of your bundle of joy. The ugly stretch marks, which is a cause for worries for women may become visible. Do not scratch the abdominal area to lessen the chances of pregnancy stretch marks.
The final stage of pregnancy is the final trimester. This is the time when the fetus becomes too huge to move in the uterus. One may feel tired and short of breath due to the increased growth of the fetus. A fetus usually settles into a head-down position in the uterus at the end of the third trimester. Now, one should get ready to welcome the baby in this world.
A woman also experience many lifestyle changes during pregnancy. Harmful substances such as nicotine and alcohol should be avoided. Smoke from cigarettes can cause low birth weight in babies as well as miscarriages and tubal pregnancies. The same can be said for alcohol and other toxic chemicals and substances such as paint fumes, they are not conducive for a healthy pregnancy.
Prenatal nutrition is essential during pregnancy, so don’t diet and drink plenty of water, about 6 to 8 glasses a day. A diet containing the essential nutrients and vitamins are vital to the development of both mother and child and supplemental vitamins are necessary as well. Perform as much exercise as safely possible, and get plenty of sleep. Regular activity such as walking, yoga, and swimming during your pregnancy will help alleviate swelling, fatigue, and backache.
Giving birth will no doubt be one of the most magical moments of a woman’s life and to ensure that your child is strong and happy, it is important you do all you can to have a healthy pregnancy.
Should there be a need to prove who the father of the baby you are carrying is, paternity test can be done after giving birth. DNA material from both the baby and from the alleged father is needed to perform the legal paternity testing and this DNA paternity test is very much close to 100% accuracy.
