Thursday, December 25, 2008

Pregnancy Tips

By Jane Bear

The feeling of carrying another living being in your womb is the most special time of a woman's life. It is a time of physical, mental and emotional transformation for the woman. Anxiety and uncertainty marks the great deal of excitement accompanying these changes. However, worries and having sleepless nights are uncalled for. The nine months of journey would be pleasant if one has a better knowledge and appreciation of these transformations.

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.

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.

Pregnancy also involves many changes in a woman's lifestyle. Avoid detrimental substances such as nicotine and alcohol. Cigarette smoke can lead to low birth weight in babies as well as miscarriages and tubal pregnancies. Alcohol and other toxic chemicals and substances such as paint fumes are damaging to the mother and to 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.

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.

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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