Reprinted Articles

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.

Along with the bodily changes, pregnancy also involves lifestyle changes. The woman should give up smoking and alcohol drinking. Low birth weight in babies as well as miscarriages and tubal pregnancies can be caused by cigarette smoke. Alcohol and other toxic chemicals and substances such as paint fumes are detrimental to both the mother and the baby.

During pregnancy, prenatal nutrition is very important. That is why dieting during this time is a big no-no. Hydration is also very important, about 6 to 8 glasses a day should be consumed. Essential nutrients and vitamins in the diet are vital to the development of both mother and child. Vitamins supplements are necessary as well as plenty of sleep and performing as much exercise as safely possible. During your pregnancy, regular activity such as walking, yoga, and swimming will help alleviate swelling, fatigue, and backache.

Becoming pregnant, enjoying a successful pregnancy and eventually giving birth is a complex but wonderful experience. Do everything you can to have a healthy pregnancy so your new baby will have the very best beginning to life that is possible.

After giving birth, a paternity test can be done in the event that there’s a need to prove who the father of your baby is. The legal paternity testing requires a DNA material from both the baby and from the alleged father. The DNA paternity test is almost 100% accurate.

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Tags: Pregnancy