Pregnancy - Your Third Trimester

By the time your third trimester rolls around, you might be thinking this pregnancy is never going to end! Some things you'll experience include having to urinate frequently due to the baby pressing into your bladder (not fun!). Other symptoms that may be predominant are excessive gas, increasing fatigue, constipation and digestive problems, headaches and back pain. Sounds pretty crazy, doesn't it?! Well, don't let this overwhelm you, because not every women experiences all of these symptoms all of the time. Basically, firm massage of these areas and warm baths were the only things that helped alleviate the cramps.
As the time of birth approaches, your baby is completing development. Now is the time to prepare yourself for the birth process. If you can't attend one of these courses, don't worry - there are still plenty of great books and material to be found. This means no lifting heavy items or participating in excessive exercise and sports.
• Get off those feet, and get plenty of rest.
• Continue eating a healthy diet, and that means healthy food choices, NOT limiting your food intake. Your baby needs nourishment, so now is not the time to worry excessively about your weight gain.
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Never Ignore Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms - It is an Emergency

Ectopic pregnancy symptoms start occurring when the egg is fertilized outside the uterus and the baby starts developing outside the womb. Most commonly, ectopic pregnancy occurs inside the fallopian tube, but in some cases, though quite rare, it occurs in the ovary or the stomach area. Ectopic pregnancy symptoms are abdominal and are characterized by pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding. These are often confused with the pregnancy symptoms of miscarriage or pelvic inflammatory diseases. The best thing is to approach your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms as a delay in action might cause a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, which is a serious medical condition.
Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy
If you are having any ectopic pregnancy symptom, it should be treated as an emergency as this type of pregnancy may rupture anytime and damage the fallopian tube permanently. Such pregnancies if diagnosed at early stages can be treated accordingly and the pregnancy can be terminated safely without damaging the tube. Thanks to the medical advancements today, women who had such type of pregnancy once can dream to have a healthy pregnancy in the near future.
Early Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms - Tips To Identify It
When the tubes of a woman are either blocked or damaged then the fertilised ova does not go to the uterus but attaches itself to the walls of the fallopian tube and starts developing there. Ectopic pregnancies or tubal pregnancies as they are also called are those where the fertilised egg fails to reach the uterus but attaches itself to a place outside the uterus and starts developing there. Though the fertilised egg in and ectopic pregnancy normally attaches itself to the fallopian tubes only, there have been cases where they have implanted themselves in some organ in the pelvis, or the cervix or one of the ovaries.
Statistics of ectopic pregnancies
Statistics show that in every 200 pregnancies at least one of them will be an ectopic pregnancy. If a woman has an ectopic pregnancy once there are good chances of her having repeated ectopic pregnancies an the chances of her having a normal one are very limited. At least one third of such women will also have a problem conceiving again.
Symptoms of ectopic pregnancies
The early signs of an ectopic pregnancy will be the same as that of a normal one, however, there could be also be other symptoms once the pregnancy develops a little more. Some of these symptoms are pain on one side of the abdomen, throbbing that lasts for a long time in the abdomen, fainting fits, pain in the lower abdomen, and vaginal bleeding. A very pointed sign is pain in the shoulder when lying down.
The doctor will also be able to tell an ectopic pregnancy when he performs a physical examination and finds that the uterus is smaller than it should be and that there is a swelling which will be tender on the side where the ectopic pregnancy is. Sometimes if the pregnancy develops further in the fallopian tube it may rupture and this causes severe anguish to the woman. She feel dizzy with fainting spells, have a weak racing pulse and go into a state of shock.
When is ectopic pregnancy discovered?
Ectopic pregnancies can be discovered as early as the fourth week, but sometimes may not be visible until the second month of the pregnancy is over. However, it can also go un noticed until an ultra sound scan is performed during the third trimester of the pregnancy.
The risk factors involved
There is a possibility of an early ectopic pregnancy in some women. If the woman has had some kind of a surgery and if there is an inflammation of the falopian tube, then there is a risk of having an ectopic pregnancy. As the lining of the tubes is very delicate there could be a problem with the egg moving into the uterus and instead gets implanted in the wrong place. This could also be possible if the woman is on any kind of contraceptive medication or gets impregnated by in vitro fertilisation.

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The Third Trimester of Pregnancy

With 4D ultrasound and inner uterine photography a lot is being discovered about the fetus' experience of the various stages of pregnancy. By the beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy baby's eyes are open and he opens and closes them regularly. Since the bones are fully developed now mom can really feel the movements. At the beginning of this stage of pregnancy the movements are frequent and quick; however, by the end of the trimester little room is left for the soccer star kicking and instead stretching and pushing is felt. Feet under the rib cage and head twisting in the pelvis will often stop mom in her tracks, send her running for the bathroom as the bladder is squeezed or possibly even require helping hands to be able to get up from a sitting or laying down position.
Baby really is packing on the pounds in the third trimester of pregnancy but with exception of water retention weight, mom will gain little as baby is now pressing into the stomach making it difficult to eat. Baby is drinking the amniotic fluid and voiding it as well; he is practicing breathing and will often get hiccoughs which mom can feel too. The lungs while developed fully continue to mature and will continue until birth; steroids are often administered if pre-mature labor is imminent that speeds up this maturing.
About four weeks before the baby's due date he begins to descend into the head down position, much later than this and it will be difficult to turn into proper position for birth and assistance in turning him may be needed. By the end of the thirty seventh week of pregnancy the baby is considered full term if delivered, however some babies really need the extra time and may be in no hurry to come out right yet, even though mom is more than ready.
By the end of this the final stages of pregnancy the baby is usually between 18 to 22 inches long and weighs anywhere from 6 to 9 pounds and everything is normally ready to work on its own. Many books and articles and web-sites offer helpful hints, tips and guides for the mom to be that can offer the information and support that is welcomed at this stage of pregnancy. Sharing this time with others who are going through the same things can help give the peace of mind and wonderful experience every woman desires with pregnancy and ease concerns about delivery.


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Pilates Pregnancy - Safer Than You May Imagine

You must have at least heard by now of that miracle-exercising program called Pilates. Oh well, since it has gained so much popularity during these years, I might as well tell you that indeed, Pilates is an exercising program that will do wonders for your body and not only. The great part about all this is that Pilates can help not only with the before state of pregnancy, but the after one as well. Actually, Pilates can help a woman through her whole pregnancy and after to get back into shape immediately. Taking care of her can be very easily done with the proper techniques, and planning a healthy exercise schedule and Pilates will do wonders for her while still standing on the safe side.
Labor and Delivery
Many people and even doctors have taken into consideration the fact that Pilates do actually help when it comes to a woman's preparation for that important labor moment and with the delivery process. Some physical therapists such as Debbi Goodman actually recommend any kind of Pilates (even Winsor Pilates) to be performed by pregnant women. You may ask why is it so important - you see, Pilates does not only enhance your physical well-being but your mental one as well.
Pilates For Pregnancy - The Perfect Exercise Method
Pilates and pregnancy go together incredibly well. Not only that but Pilates can help at all stages of the pregnancy, and afterwards.
Preparation for Labor and Delivery
Many consider Pilates to be the perfect preparation for the labor and delivery process.
Pilates is a method of exercise that focusses on both mind and body and has numerous benefits. For example, The breathing techniques learned improve energy levels during pregnancy so that mother's will tire less easily as ell as aiding the preparation for labour.
More Benefits of Pilates for Pregnancy:
1. Improves abdominal strength which helps support the weight of the growing uterus and the spine.
3. Helps to prevent leg cramps and varicose veins.
4. Improves pelvic floor control helping to support the extra weight during pregnancy.
5. Increased awareness of the pelvic floor muscles enhancing the mother's ability to relax and facilitate birth.
6. Increases muscular stamina so the woman is able to adopt comfortable positions, for longer, during labour.
7. Reduces the likelihood of injury or wear and tear on the joints.
Exercising After Delivery
Some Pilates exercises are doable soon after the birth which helps tone the abdominal muscles and bring them back into shape. This method combines strength training with unique breathing and posture techniques which allow you to exercise safely. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise, three times a week, can do wonders making Pilates the perfect fitness technique for pregnancy.



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Pregnancy Morning Sickness - Take It In Your Stride

The word “pregnancy morning sickness” is actually very misleading. Morning sickness or nausea may affect a pregnant woman anytime during the day. At least fifty percent of pregnant women experience nausea, an important yet scary early pregnancy symptom while some just don’t experience it, they are luckier perhaps.
Vomiting or nausea during pregnancy as it is commonly called may occur during the first trimester for a pregnant woman. You may experience relief from morning sickness after around 14 weeks but you never know it may keep visiting you throughout your pregnancy.

Cause Of Morning Sickness:
As you prepare for the arrival of a new baby many physical changes are taking place in your body and probably a combination of these changes causes morning sickness. • During pregnancy a woman seems to have a very high sensitivity to strong odors. • Some people believe that morning sickness is caused by Vitamin B deficiency. Though taking Vitamin B6 supplement gives morning sickness relief the actual reason why is still unknown. • In case you had it during a previous pregnancy
Avoid discomforting odors, eat frequent meals, drink liquids between meals not immediately after a meal and an important point is never keep your stomach empty. Eat simple food do not have spicy, fried, heavy foods which may enhance your nausea.
Some More Morning Sickness Cures That Can Help You Feel Better
Along with watching what you eat, and avoiding smells that trigger your nausea, there are some other tips you can try to help bring your symptoms to a more manageable level.
• Sleeping is one of the most important things you can do in your first trimester. Your body is undergoing so many changes, and your baby will develop so rapidly in these first few weeks, that you are going to feel extreme fatigue. Don't fight it. If you need a nap - go and take one! (Just make sure you haven't just had something to eat that can lay in your stomach and make you feel worse!) Being tired is one of the worst things for morning sickness. You aren't doing yourself or your baby any favours by trying to do too much and not admitting you need a rest.
• When you take your prenatal vitamins, try taking them with food. Some women also find that when they take them at bedtime they feel less sick. The body has time to absorb the nutrients over night. Also, you may need a vitamin with less iron in it as this can be very irritating to the intestines.
• Drink a lot of water throughout the day, but not at meal times. Don't let yourself drink so much that your stomach feels full. Try to just sip on the water over the course of the day. If throwing up has become frequent, you might consider drinking a drink with electrolytes and nutrients in it to help replace any that you may have lost.
Don't let it get you down - there are morning sickness cures available and you can feel better. It may be hard to believe right now, but give everything you can a try (as long as it is safe for you and the baby!). Take the time to find something that works for you, and that makes you feel that happy glow you were so hoping to feel!


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Are You Taking Enough Vitamins During Pregnancy?

Whether you need supplements of vitamins during pregnancy is a debatable issue. However, most women are of the opinion that, prenatal vitamins are vital for fulfilling the requirement of nutrition during pregnancy. This holds particularly true when you have a deficiency.

Common supplements of vitamins are those containing iron, folic acid, and other such crucial nutrients that you need during this nine-month phase. In case you are lactose-intolerant, the doctor may recommend you calcium supplements, to fulfill the increased calcium requirement in your body.

Not all women are so healthy that they can provide all the essential nutrients to their developing baby through natural food sources. Moreover, the need for calcium, minerals, iron, and vitamins increases. In such a situation, pregnancy vitamins help. There are more than 50 nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy. Let's take a look at some of the most important ones.

Pregnancy Nutrition

· Folic acid - it is a B vitamin, essential before conception and in first trimester. It decreases the risk of various scary neural tube defects like, spina bifida, encephalocele, and anencephaly.

· Iron - it is crucial, as it produced red blood cells that transport oxygen to the fetus. You need double amount of iron in this period.

· Calcium - it is essential for the healthy development of bones and teeth of your baby. It also prevents the onset of osteoporosis in you.

· Vitamin A - important for the health of skin, normal cell growth, and developing resistance to infection.

· Vitamin D - essential for strong bones of your baby and regulation of calcium absorption

· Vitamin C - inevitable for strong gums, teeth, and bones. Helps in iron absorption.

· B vitamins like vitamin B6, thiamine, and riboflavin - B6 is important for brain and nervous system development. Thiamine (B1) is essential for brain development. Riboflavin (B2) encourages development of muscles, bones, and nerves of your baby.

· Protein - it's the building block of your baby's cells.

· Potassium - it maintains fluid balance in cells.

· Zinc - helps in tissue development of your baby and reduces the risk of neural tube disorders.

The aim is to provide adequate nutrition during this stage. But, supplements are NOT a substitute for nutritious food. They work in combination with a balanced diet. Besides, always consult your doctor before staring any supplement for vitamins during pregnancy.

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Spotting During Pregnancy

Light bleeding or spotting, as they usually call it, is a common happening during pregnancy. It may be regarded as a not-so-serious condition due to the many physiological reaction in a woman’s body during this childbearing stage.

Identifying Reasons for Spotting during pregnancy

If you are spotting and you are not pregnant... you might want to take a pregnancy test!

Some might confuse the spotting from bleeding although the latter is more serious and requires immediate medical attention. The spots can vary in color from light red, red, pink to brown, which is a usual color of a blood when it dried up.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, spotting can be very common. But while most people usually regard spotting as nothing but a common sightings at this stage, monitoring one’s health should be put at the top of everyone’s priority.

Causes of Spotting

There are many reasons for the cause of spotting and one some of them are enumerated below.

a. Increased Blood Supply To the Cervix. The increased blood supply to the primary internal genital organs of pregnant women. This increase blood supply may leak out to the linings of the cervix and, in turn, causes scant bleeding.

b. This is also caused by after-effect of Pap smear examination, sexual intercourse or any internal activity which destroy the internal linings of the cervix. For implant patients, several episodes of spotting is expected during the first week of the fertilization.

c. Dividing Egg Cell Burrowing into the Wall of the Uterus. This can also be caused by the action done by the dividing fertilized egg cell which clinging into the walls of the uterus, the organ where the developing baby is nourished and undergoes development.

This type of soft bleeding will only last for about one or two days but may extend until the fourth or fifth day but should it continue on the sixth days, it should be consulted with your medical doctor for checkup.

It shows that less than 8% of women experiences spotting or none at all, however, for any concerns on pregnancy, especially for first-timers, regular check up is needed in order to check no any developments of spotting.

d. Vaginal Infections. Several vaginal infections may also cause spotting for pregnant and non-pregnant women alike. Sexually transmitted diseases for example may cause spotting. Vaginitis or Bacterial vaginosis, several types of vaginal yeast infections and trichomoniasis, are just some of the vaginal infections which may cause spotting.

Others such as herpes simplex, gonorrhea, and Chlamydia may irritate the linings of the cervix and causes the vulnerability of the cervix to irritation.

Irritated cervix would then cause bleeding if external means will be applied in the area such as when undergoing a Pap smear test or after having sexual intercourse or any serious medical condition such as cervical (benign) polyp which can become cancerous at anytime.

It shows that 10 to 64% of American women suffer from any of these diseases at any time during their lifetime

Complications Arising From Spotting

Spotting can be very dangerous especially if it would last for a week. For most women, spotting may suggest that an early onset of an abnormal pregnancy or miscarriage. Along with this sign, other may include dispersed bouts of abdominal pain and frequent cramps.

At this stage, ultrasound and a series of other laboratory tests carried out by your OB should be done in order to ensure the safety of the unborn. Half of pregnant women who experiences advanced spotting and bleeding miscarry and most experiences severe complications.

For the first week of spotting, an ultrasound showing heartbeat between 7 and 11 as a rate is a good indicator of ruling out miscarriage and continuing pregnancy on a clear and healthy state.

Other Issues Related to Spotting

Despite in advances in technology, most doctors are still unable to find the reason for the causes of spotting among pregnant women. While many of us are concerned on the daily activities that may induce spotting and in turn endanger the health of your unborn child, it is well advised to consult your local physician or obgyne so that they would be able to look closely on the cause and advice you on some activities will help you lessen the chances of recurring any episodes of spotting.

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Pregnancy Nausea - The Truth About Nausea During Pregnancy And How To Prevent It

Unfortunately pregnancy nausea is to be expected when you learn that you are carrying a baby. This article will discuss the truth about nausea during pregnancy.
Pregnancy nausea is most common during the first trimester or the first four months of pregnancy, however, the condition and the symptoms do vary from one woman to another. One woman may experience severe vomiting in the morning, while another may experience vomiting at night. Other women may not vomit but feel nausea 24 hours a day every day of their pregnancy.
Generally speaking, pregnancy nausea causes absolutely no damage to the woman or the unborn baby. However, in severe cases excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration in the mother and that will mean she will lose vital vitamins and minerals and in extreme cases hyperemesis gravidarum may result which requires immediate hospitalization in most cases.
How To Avoid Pregnancy Nausea
If you usually feel nauseated in the morning then it is best to only have a very light breakfast as soon as you wake, even if it's some dry biscuits, before you even get out of bed.
Herbal teas, fruit juices and water are also highly recommended. It is best to avoid alcoholic drinks of caffeinated drinks. Sometimes spicy or fatty foods may also not agree with you and should be limited it not avoid altogether.
Ginger tea or ginger in tea form is said to reduce morning sickness.
If you vomit up to four times a day, if you are experiencing dehydration or if you find blood in your vomit you must consult your doctor immediately. He may also prescribe tablets to help cure your nausea during pregnancy.
Nausea During Pregnancy: What Do I Do?
Nausea during pregnancy is quite common. There are also a fortunate few who never experience nausea during pregnancy. Firstly, having a full stomach at all times can alleviate nausea. Secondly, drink plenty of fluids to prevent nausea throughout your pregnancy. Hydration is extremely important during your pregnancy. Dehydration is often the cause of nausea and can worsen the feeling of nausiosness you are already experiencing. Trying to calm your nerves can help relieve your nausea. Sharing your feelings and worries with your spouse, other mothers, and friends often alleviates the feeling of isolation which leads to anxiety and nausea during your pregnancy. Prenatal massage can also help with nausea. Whether from a professional or your spouse, a massage has been known to help pregnant women relax and calm their nerves.
Another common cause of nausea is exhaustion and lack of sleep. A restful sleep has been known to magically alleviate nausea and help you feel better overall.
Hopefully the above steps will relieve most of your nausea througout pregnancy.



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The Pregnancy Glow and Other Myths of Motherhood

It happened during the ninth month of my first pregnancy. I was going through a department store check-out lane where a teenage girl was ringing up my purchases. She looked shyly at my burgeoning belly with an expression that could only be described as reverent.
With eyes full of dreams of future motherhood she asked, “Is pregnancy really as bad as everyone says?”
Without the slightest guilt, I replied, “No. It’s worse.”
The Deception
When my husband and I announced the birth of our blessed expectation some months prior, along with endless congratulations, I received the good news of the many wonderful changes I could expect.
"You’ll positively glow.”
“Your hair and nails will look fabulous.”
“You’ll feel absolutely beautiful.”
According to family and friends, as a gestating woman, I would feel nothing short of a precious vessel, glowing with health and radiance given only to those experiencing the miracle of growing a child.
About a week later, wearing the pallor of death, I was running away from the smell of my husband’s lunchtime tuna fish sandwich knowing I’d never been so violently ill my entire life.
The Reality
Although it’s rumored there are actually women who sail through pregnancy untouched by any ills or discomfort, I was not one of them. If I’d ever experienced a pregnancy glow, I’m certain I could only have been radioactive.
I was told to expect a little morning sickness. I didn’t anticipate 24/7 progesterone poisoning, body aches, or never ending fatigue. And in all the happy tales of pregnancy recounted to me, I'm certain I'd have remembered hearing if pure, unadulterated misery were mentioned as a symptom of gestation.
Sitting in my obstetrician’s office near the end of the first trimester, she asked how I was feeling. “Sick.”
“Good.” She replied.
Seeing my defeated look, she offered a small respite. “You’ll start to feel better after week 12 or 13.”
I crossed the days off my calendar waiting for magical week 13. It came and went. My never ending nausea did not. I was sick, tired, and sick of being both.
I'd been told how sharing a child together would make my marital relationship more intimate. I, on the other hand, hated my husband. No matter he and I had joyfully consented to make this child together, or that he worried and did the best he could to make me feel more comfortable. Somewhere in the back of my mind, as I watched him lie peacefully asleep at night while I was awake fending off nausea, all I could think was, “this is your fault.”
And so it went for the entire duration of nine months. I knew beyond any shadow of a doubt, if I ever survived this go-round on the pregnancy rollercoaster, there would be no more children in my future, ever. Motherhood just wasn’t all that it was cracked up to be.
The Grand Debut
Jacob Lyle arrived in early fall that year, bearing 10 perfect fingers and toes, a head full of brown hair and big blue eyes. He was bruised and battered from birth, yet, to my eyes, perfection unlike the world had ever seen before.
Suddenly, my entire life made sense. At 23-years old, I wasn’t yet sure what I wanted to be when I grew up, or what my future held outside of being a wife to my husband. With the arrival of Jacob, I knew exactly why I was here—to be the mother of this beautiful child. Having Jacob filled my life with a sense of awe and wonder I had never known. I was a mother, and that was enough.
Altered Expectations
While I had expected sleepless nights with my newborn, what I hadn’t expected was how much I would enjoy them. I gladly gave up sleep to have the chance just to hold my tiny son in my arms and look at his sweet face.
I expected life to change. I never expected the very foundations of my world to be rocked. It came as a total shock that the simple act of becoming a mother—wasn’t simple.
Previous to motherhood, tragedy in the world was sad. After the birth of my son, it was heart-wrenching. No longer could I watch a movie or read a news report depicting harm to a child without emotion. Every child became my child. What if it were Jacob who was sick? What if it were Jacob who was injured?
Issues I’d previously given no thought suddenly became of substantial importance. Was there truly a difference between breastfeeding and formula feeding? Should we circumcise? If I vaccinated my child, he could have a serious adverse reaction. If I chose not to vaccinate, he could become very ill.
I became an information addict and read every book on childcare I could get my hands on and spent endless hours researching my concerns and second guessing my decisions. The rest of my waking hours were spent staring at Jacob as he slept, assuring myself he was still breathing and would only continue to do so thorough my conscious willing of it. Fortunately, he survived my new mother paranoia and came out relatively unscathed-- or at least, I will assume so until I’m presented with a bill for therapy.
Personal Truths
I had gone into motherhood with the words of many fostering my belief I’d have a baby, but life would eventually go back to normal again by the magical six-week check-up (at which point I'd also have lost all my baby weight). What I didn’t know when I gave birth was normal was gone forever, along with any peace of mind, my figure, and any hope of a good night’s sleep, but that I’d never trade a moment of my new life to have it back again.
Motherhood, I’ve come to find, is a journey rather than a destination. And while we may endeavor to share experiences with a new mom-to-be, the truths of motherhood remain personal and hers alone to find. The only certainty is the journey is well worth traveling.
I only wish I could talk to that teenager one more time.
About The Author
Barbara Eastom Bates is the author of the upcoming release, "Basic Training for Brides-to-Be," and editor-in-chief of Operation Military Spouse, http://www.operationmilitaryspouse.com.
opmilspouse@yahoo.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barbara_A._Eastom_Bates

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10 Pregnancy Risk Factors that Every Pregnant Woman Should be Aware of

Many factors affect the development of a fetus into a healthy child, some which are beyond your control and others that are within your control. Here are ten of the most common pregnancy risk factors that can be controlled or influenced:
1.Smoking - Smoking is not only bad for you, but bad for your baby as well. Smoking during pregnancy reduces the amount of oxygen that the baby receives and increases the risk of miscarriage, bleeding, and morning sickness. Chemicals inhaled while smoking may lead to other health problems with the baby. Reduced birth weight, premature birth, increased risk of SIDS, and stillbirth are other possible consequences. Pregnant women should also avoid second hand smoke.



2.Alcohol - Drinking can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, including symptoms like low birth weight, medical problems, and behavior abnormalities. As soon as you know you are pregnant, stop drinking. For more detailed information on problems that can be caused by alcohol, visit http://www.nofas.org.
3.Caffeine - There are many conflicting studies about caffeine and pregnancy and some believe that caffeine is not as harmful as it was once thought to be. Nevertheless, the FDA warns against caffeine consumption during pregnancy and suggests quitting or reducing consumption at the very least. Caffeine has been shown to affect fetal heart rates and awake time (fetuses grow when sleeping). Decaffeinated coffee can also be harmful since producers often add additional chemicals to remove the caffeine. Caffeine can also increase risk of stretch marks. Suddenly quitting coffee intake can cause headaches; so most experts recommend gradually reducing the amount consumed.
4.Drugs and Herbal Remedies - Always be careful about drugs or herbal remedies that are not prescribed by a doctor. These substances may affect the development of your unborn child.
5.Nutrition - Good nutrition is crucial to a developing child, particularly getting enough folic acid. Lack of folic acid can cause birth defects. At least 400-1000 micrograms of this B vitamin is suggested (about ten times more if you've already had a child with neural tube birth defects) starting one month before pregnant and throughout the entire pregnancy. Leafy vegetables, orange juice, and beans are some natural sources of folic acid. Many stores sell vitamins with folic acid.
6.Exercise - Moderate exercise is helpful as it improves the mother's mental state and can increase oxygen flow to the fetus. However, over-exertion can be dangerous. Most experts recommend reducing your exercise intensity during pregnancy. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga are popular for pregnant women.
7.Prenatal Care - Regular doctor visits are important to your baby's development. The body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. Some side effects may be completely normal, whereas other may not. Regular monitoring by a professional will help ensure that your baby will be born healthy.
8.Multiple sex partners - Multiple sex partners can increase risk of STD's, which in turn may lead to birth and pregnancy complications, like low birth weight or premature birth.
9.Exposure to chemicals - During pregnancy, reduce exposure to unnatural chemicals, particularly pesticides in food. Many people now eat organic produce, which is grown without chemicals. The simplest precaution to take before consuming vegetables or fruits is to wash them thoroughly. Also, removing the outer surface of vegetables can be helpful since most pesticides will rest on the outside of the vegetable or fruit.
10.Other factors - Many other factors can affect fetal development, including heart disease, the mother's age (before 15 years and after 35 years is riskier), asthma, excessive stress or depression, diseases, and bleeding. Consult your physician if you are affected by any of these conditions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Criss_White

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