12/23/2010

Developments In The First Trimester Of Pregnancy Stages




Author: SCOTT ANDREWS

First trimester of pregnancy stages refers to the initial stages of childbearing. It normally lasts up to 12 weeks of gestation from conception. Some doctors calculate the period from the very first day of last menstrual period to the 14th week.

This trimester normally appears to be very taxing for most of pregnant women. It is because so many hormonal changes start taking place in their bodies suddenly. They also feel an increased emotional quotient. Furthermore, the baby also develops at an amazing pace during this period. All these things confuse the first time mothers and they start wondering how to cope with all this. But all this confusion can be kept at bay by procuring basic information about these first few weeks of Pregnancy.

The first trimester of pregnancy stages is the most crucial phase for it greatly influences the development of the fetus. This is also the time when the mother would have to take maximum care of herself and her developing baby. If the mother retains the pink of her health during this phase, the fetus would definitely develop normally and would be healthy also. It is during these weeks only that the major systems and organs of the fetus start forming. Some developments take place right with the implantation of the embryo into uterine wall. The amniotic sac gets formed. This is followed by secretion of amniotic fluid, which acts as the life guard for the embryo. Made by a membrane covering the placenta from the side of the fetus, the fluid shields the fetus from injuries. It also helps in regulating the temperature of fetus.

Many dramatic developments and changes take place during first trimester of pregnancy stages. During this period, the terminologies also change very rapidly. This entails the new life implanted in the mother’s womb is termed an embryo during the first eight weeks. This embryo develops briskly and becomes a fully formed fetus in just three weeks. A full term fetus at the close of the first trimester usually weighs around an ounce and grows around 3-4 inches in length.

Changes Experienced By The Mother

During this phase, the body of the mother-to-be also experiences a lot of changes. The enlargement of the mammary glands causes swelling of the breasts. This is the preparatory step for breastfeeding that starts with tendering of the breasts. It mainly happens because of increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. To counter this, the expecting woman must wear a supportive bra. Darkening of areolas marks the second step of this preparation. The areolas are further covered by Montgomery's tubercles that are the enlarged sweat glands in the form of white bumps. Furthermore, the veins present on the breasts also become more prominent especially at the surface.

Then the uterus of a pregnant woman also keeps growing rapidly thereby exerting pressure on her bladder. This pressure along with the improved blood flow to kidneys may cause her to urinate frequently. Mood swings, morning sickness, and fatigue are also at their peak during the first trimester of pregnancy stages.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/developments-in-the-first-trimester-of-pregnancy-stages-1769974.html

About the Author

Visit the following link to know the do's and don'ts concerning the first trimester pregnancy. Also know about the benefits served by a pregnancy calendar and how it can help track the baby's progress.

12/20/2010

What should you eat as pregnancy Diet ?





What should you eat as pregnancy Diet ?

Author: Rosana

Here is what we think should be your Pregnancy diet -
* A healthy and balanced diet is very much necessary as a pregnancy diet. The diet not only helps you but also helps the yet to born child inside you.
* The initial months are crucial because during these months the baby's growth starts. The nervous system growth and the organ formation also take place during this time. The baby grows physically and mentally and so good nutrition is very important during this time.
* During the last three months of pregnancy also take enough care. During the last three months you should take care because the growth of the baby is rapid during this time.
* Whether you like it or not but you should eat properly good food during your pregnancy so as to avoid any problem. You have to take care of your health as well the baby's health. So go for a good well balanced diet during this time.
So, what is a nutritious and balanced diet?
A diet is called nutritious when it contains proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals in needed amount. The food should contain elements from these five groups.
Eat –Fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, whole grain items like cereals and bread, milk and dairy products et cetera
Avoid - Canned and processed foods, coffee, tea, spicy foods, sugary foods such as cakes, cookies, candies, hot chocolate, sodas and colas and salt etc.
· Eat different food of different varieties
· Eat three meals a day
· Try to get 2,200 to 2,800 calories per day. It is necessary for you and for the baby's health.
· Talk to a doctor
· Take vitamins as prescribed by the doctor
Some of the essential nutrients
Folic acid: Folic acid is very important in the pregnancy diet. It is very important for the pregnant women. Folic acid helps in the baby's development. It helps in the development of the nervous system. Folic acid is also important because it
1. Prevents defects of the brain, spine or their coverings.
2. Prevents birth defects like congenital heart disease and cleft lip.
Where will you get folic acid?
In green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, beans, citrus, in the liver and in yeast. You will also find it in cereals and breads.
Iron – Iron is very much essential for pregnant women in their diet. It helps in development of the baby's bones and teeth. Eat green leafy vegetables, dates, potatoes, cereals, breads etc.
Calcium – It is necessary because it helps in development of bones and teeth of the baby. Milk, yogurt, cheese, green leafy vegetables contain calcium. Daily need is 800-1200 mg.
Protein - Protein is necessary for your body. Eat meat, fish, peas, nuts, beans and diary foods like milk and eggs.
Vitamin C – Its necessary because it helps in formation of placenta and helps in fighting infection. Eat fresh fruit and vegetables .
Fiber – Fiber is needed to prevent constipation and piles which is common during pregnancy. Eat fruits and vegetables, nuts, brown rice, cereals including peas, beans, oats, and pulses etc.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/what-should-you-eat-as-pregnancy-diet-3887611.html
About the Author

pregnancy | food | milk

Pregnancy fanny :)))

12/16/2010

Pregnancy Stages - A Brief Overview




Soon after the delight of discovering that "I am pregnant" the mothers want to discover what is going to happen during the different pregnancy stages. The initial pregnancy symptoms are actually the result of changing hormonal levels and the growth of the baby in the womb. Now the anxiety is for handling incoming pregnancy stages. Read on to find the answer to all your anxieties.
Each pregnancy stage is accompanied with many changes in both the mother and the baby, and the better understanding of these changes helps to enjoy them more.
First Pregnancy Stage
During the first pregnancy stage the baby is developing at an incredible rate. During these twelve weeks of the first stage, the baby grows from two tiny cells to about seven centimeters long fetus with many of its organs(including heart) in the functioning position. Obviously this gives a deep effect on the mother's body. Increasing level of hormones at this stage is the major cause of nausea, morning sickness, extreme tiredness and much more in this stage. The mother can only cope up to these changes if she is stronger enough. A multivitamin pill is of great help at this stage.

12/15/2010

Fun Ways To Announce Your Pregnancy



Whether you just found out you are with child or you have known for a few months, then announce your pregnancy to relatives and friends can be a lot of fun. Some may want to hold on till a trustworthy period during their pregnancy, while others desire to call right after finding out themselves.

Announce your pregnancy for The Father

Have a romantic dinner for two with candle lights, it may be your final stretch for a while, between sunrise sickness and propagation your little one. Serve up, babe in arms carrots, kid back ribs and anything else you can think as baby. At the end, pour apple fluid instead of wine and hand him a existent. Contents the Existing you can maintain a little toddler bib that says, "I heart My Daddy" or a couple of baby booties.

If you can't tell the father right away, because he's away on affair, or deployed, try sending him a care package to announce your pregnancy. Inside the box a few baby items, everything in blue and pink, and a baby naming book in the center. Place a note on top of the book, which saying, "I miss a good name, I'll be here by June." Or whenever the baby is due.

You can also see how large it takes him to figure it out. Go to the dollar stock and hand-pick up a bunch of small baby items, a bib, rattle, fiasco, booties, etc. For a week, leave an item laying around the house, where he is usually to find them. At the end of the week if he hasn't figured it out yet, prepare the big gift. Have a Teddy Bear sitting at the dinner table in the place next to him, make sure there is a bib wrapped around the Teddy Bear, and maybe a sign that says Hi Daddy.

Announce your pregnancy for Family and Friends

Show up to a family event and wear a shirt that announces your situation. These days there are a ton of shirts out there with text sayings, "Baby on Board," "A Bun in the Oven," or something common to the parenthood. The moment you walk in or take off your jacket all will know your situation, without you ever having to say a word, you will announce your pregnancy. Now, get ready for the tears and excitement. You will be ready to answer a ton of questions.

12/14/2010

Constipation During Pregnancy

A common term used to describe pregnancy and childbirth is "miraculous".  In preparation for birth, a pregnant woman's body changes in amazing ways.  This also involves the common problem of constipation.  This makes a woman feel less than miraculous.  This article discusses the problem of constipation and offers some solutions.