Pregnancy Information

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.

The first pregnancy trimester is 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 during this stage. To prevent nausea, it is recommended to take small frequent meals. The expectant mother may have alternate periods of activity and rest. The best exercise at this stage is walking.

The second pregnancy trimester is often considered the "Golden Period" as the physically demanding early signs and symptoms of pregnancy are all over by now. There's a better sleep pattern, which is a major sign of advancement in the process of healthy pregnancy. The most joyful moment is experienced during this time as the mother-to-be might get to hear the first heartbeat of the baby. An ultrasound done in around 19 weeks may make one feel the diverse movements of the baby inside. Stretch marks, which are a great sign of worry for the to-be moms, may be visible. Avoid itching the abdominal area to lessen the chances of pregnancy stretch marks.

During the final pregnancy stage, the third trimester, the fetus becomes too huge to move in the uterus. Because of the increased growth of the fetus, the future mom may feel tired and experience shortness of breath. Usually, the fetuses settle into a head-down position in the uterus at the end of this period. Now, one should be well prepared for the baby's arrival.

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.

The diet or prenatal nutrition is another essential lifestyle change during pregnancy. It is important to eat a healthy diet and increase water intake, about 6 to 8 glasses a day. Vitamins and nutrients found in the food are imperative to the health of a developing baby and the well being of the mother as well as supplemental vitamins. Exercise and getting adequate rest and sleep are also important. To help alleviate swelling, fatigue, and backache, regular activity such as walking, yoga, and swimming should be done.

Giving birth is undeniably one of the most magical moments of a woman's existence. To render certain that your child is strong and happy, it is essential you do all you can to have a healthy pregnancy.

If you need to prove who the father of the baby you are carrying is, paternity test can be done after giving birth. To perform the legal paternity testing, DNA material from both the baby and from the alleged father is needed. The DNA paternity test is very much close to 100% accuracy.