Your newborn's umbilical-cord area requires special care until it heals. Don't be afraid to clean your baby's cord: the quicker the base dries, the sooner the cord will fall off. You should clean the area each time you change your baby's diaper. To clean the cord safely, take a cotton swab, cotton square or cotton round and clean around the base of the cord.
Remember to avoid covering the cord with the diaper, because the cord area should be kept dry and clean at all times. If the diaper is too high, fold it down on your baby before securing. You can also buy special newborn diapers that have a cut-out space for the cord. The cord area should heal in about seven to ten days.
Warning Signs
Call your baby's pediatric caregiver if you notice that the umbilical cord stump:• is soft • has a strong odor • is streaked with red around the navel, or is discharging fluid
It is normal for a few drops of blood to appear when the stump separates.
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Sunday, August 3, 2008
Newborn Skin and Common Conditions
Your newborn's skin is a unique and essential shield that offers protection from the outside world. It plays an important role in maintaining health, and in defending against irritants, toxins and infections. Skin also regulates your infant's internal temperature, and is a tool for exploring the world through touch.
Protect the Protector
For all that it does to protect, your infant's skin needs its own protection. New learnings from fundamental research on infant skin show that infant skin absorbs and loses moisture at a faster rate than more mature skin. In a recent clinical study, 90 percent of mothers thought their infant's skin was not dry, when in fact 60 percent of their infants had signs of dry skin! It's a good idea to protect your infant's skin and keep it healthy, soft and supple by applying a moisturizer frequently, especially after a bath or diaper change.
Made for Infant Skin
It is recommended that you use a moisturizer that is made specifically for your infant's special needs. Your infant's skin is thinner, and it is also more vulnerable to friction (chafing), detergents and other harsh agents. Baby Lotion is hypoallergenic and gentle enough for a baby's delicate skin. It contains no harsh ingredients and can be used every day to moisturize, soften and protect her skin from dryness. Use it after your infant's bath or anytime your infant's skin needs extra moisturizing.
Special Cleansing Needs
Because your infant's skin is exposed to urine, stool and spit-up milk, it needs to be cleaned often. Always make sure you're using a cleanser that is formulated for her skin.
Protect the Protector
For all that it does to protect, your infant's skin needs its own protection. New learnings from fundamental research on infant skin show that infant skin absorbs and loses moisture at a faster rate than more mature skin. In a recent clinical study, 90 percent of mothers thought their infant's skin was not dry, when in fact 60 percent of their infants had signs of dry skin! It's a good idea to protect your infant's skin and keep it healthy, soft and supple by applying a moisturizer frequently, especially after a bath or diaper change.
Made for Infant Skin
It is recommended that you use a moisturizer that is made specifically for your infant's special needs. Your infant's skin is thinner, and it is also more vulnerable to friction (chafing), detergents and other harsh agents. Baby Lotion is hypoallergenic and gentle enough for a baby's delicate skin. It contains no harsh ingredients and can be used every day to moisturize, soften and protect her skin from dryness. Use it after your infant's bath or anytime your infant's skin needs extra moisturizing.
Special Cleansing Needs
Because your infant's skin is exposed to urine, stool and spit-up milk, it needs to be cleaned often. Always make sure you're using a cleanser that is formulated for her skin.
Importance of bonding
The quality of a baby's initial attachment is extremely important. It lays the foundation for your baby's ability to learn, develop confidence, and to form healthy relationships.
• Bonding builds trust Through talking, sharing, touching, playing and any forms of bonding, a baby learns the basics of how to relate to others. As a baby begins to coos back when you communicate with him/her, he/she starts to see you as a trusted person. It's from this emotional connection that babies can begin to develop a sense of who they are and the feelings of security and trust they need to grow up confidently around other people.
• Bonding builds love. Every time you feed the baby, touch him/her, play with him/her, read to him/her and love him/her, he/she is stimulated and feels the love. As the baby gets older, he/she will be very capable of loving other people. Thus, creating a strong, loving bond is vital to a baby's emotional growth.
• Bonding builds sense of security. By promptly responding to your baby's needs in a loving manner will help develop a secure attachment between you and the baby. Imagine a baby crying out loud in his/her crib and no-one is attending to him/her. The emotional connection between the parents and the baby seems broken by the attitude of the parents. The baby would feel insecure as the supposedly most trusted people in his/her early life could not provide him/her with his basic needs: "attention" and "love". Let's hold, talk, sing, rock, read, cuddle and do whatever you can to interact with your little ones. The bonding experience will certainly strengthen the loving relationship between you and your babies.
• Bonding builds trust Through talking, sharing, touching, playing and any forms of bonding, a baby learns the basics of how to relate to others. As a baby begins to coos back when you communicate with him/her, he/she starts to see you as a trusted person. It's from this emotional connection that babies can begin to develop a sense of who they are and the feelings of security and trust they need to grow up confidently around other people.
• Bonding builds love. Every time you feed the baby, touch him/her, play with him/her, read to him/her and love him/her, he/she is stimulated and feels the love. As the baby gets older, he/she will be very capable of loving other people. Thus, creating a strong, loving bond is vital to a baby's emotional growth.
• Bonding builds sense of security. By promptly responding to your baby's needs in a loving manner will help develop a secure attachment between you and the baby. Imagine a baby crying out loud in his/her crib and no-one is attending to him/her. The emotional connection between the parents and the baby seems broken by the attitude of the parents. The baby would feel insecure as the supposedly most trusted people in his/her early life could not provide him/her with his basic needs: "attention" and "love". Let's hold, talk, sing, rock, read, cuddle and do whatever you can to interact with your little ones. The bonding experience will certainly strengthen the loving relationship between you and your babies.
Importance of bonding
The quality of a baby's initial attachment is extremely important. It lays the foundation for your baby's ability to learn, develop confidence, and to form healthy relationships.
• Bonding builds trust Through talking, sharing, touching, playing and any forms of bonding, a baby learns the basics of how to relate to others. As a baby begins to coos back when you communicate with him/her, he/she starts to see you as a trusted person. It's from this emotional connection that babies can begin to develop a sense of who they are and the feelings of security and trust they need to grow up confidently around other people.
• Bonding builds love. Every time you feed the baby, touch him/her, play with him/her, read to him/her and love him/her, he/she is stimulated and feels the love. As the baby gets older, he/she will be very capable of loving other people. Thus, creating a strong, loving bond is vital to a baby's emotional growth.
• Bonding builds sense of security. By promptly responding to your baby's needs in a loving manner will help develop a secure attachment between you and the baby. Imagine a baby crying out loud in his/her crib and no-one is attending to him/her. The emotional connection between the parents and the baby seems broken by the attitude of the parents. The baby would feel insecure as the supposedly most trusted people in his/her early life could not provide him/her with his basic needs: "attention" and "love". Let's hold, talk, sing, rock, read, cuddle and do whatever you can to interact with your little ones. The bonding experience will certainly strengthen the loving relationship between you and your babies.
• Bonding builds trust Through talking, sharing, touching, playing and any forms of bonding, a baby learns the basics of how to relate to others. As a baby begins to coos back when you communicate with him/her, he/she starts to see you as a trusted person. It's from this emotional connection that babies can begin to develop a sense of who they are and the feelings of security and trust they need to grow up confidently around other people.
• Bonding builds love. Every time you feed the baby, touch him/her, play with him/her, read to him/her and love him/her, he/she is stimulated and feels the love. As the baby gets older, he/she will be very capable of loving other people. Thus, creating a strong, loving bond is vital to a baby's emotional growth.
• Bonding builds sense of security. By promptly responding to your baby's needs in a loving manner will help develop a secure attachment between you and the baby. Imagine a baby crying out loud in his/her crib and no-one is attending to him/her. The emotional connection between the parents and the baby seems broken by the attitude of the parents. The baby would feel insecure as the supposedly most trusted people in his/her early life could not provide him/her with his basic needs: "attention" and "love". Let's hold, talk, sing, rock, read, cuddle and do whatever you can to interact with your little ones. The bonding experience will certainly strengthen the loving relationship between you and your babies.
The ways babies bond
When you're a new parent, it often takes a while to understand your newborn's true capabilities and all the ways you can interact:• Touch becomes an early language as babies respond to skin-to-skin contact. It's soothing for both you and your baby while promoting your baby's healthy growth and development.• Eye-to-eye contact provides meaningful communication at close range.• Babies can follow moving objects with their eyes.• Your baby tries — early on — to imitate your facial expressions and gestures.• Babies prefer human voices and enjoy vocalizing in their first efforts at communication. Babies often enjoy just listening to your conversations, as well as your descriptions of their activities and environments.• A breastfed baby will receive regular close contact with her mother, helping an early bond to develop. Unfortunately, this is not always easy, so speak to your health visitor if you need any help or assistance.• Massage provides a more structured method of touching your baby and a way of promoting physical and mental growth as well as the parent-baby bond.• Regular activities such as nappy-changing time are a wonderful time to show your baby just how much you love him. Talk to him, kiss his tummy, tell him what lovely dimples he has and how much you love his smile. This will take your mind off what a messy job it is and show that you love him, no matter what.• Life is getting faster and faster, but slow and steady is best for baby. Stop and spend time with your baby. Relax and enjoy yourself. Your baby will love you no matter what.• Take time for yourself. An exhausted mom will not enjoy her baby. While your baby is asleep or someone is looking after him/her, treat that moment as a special break for you. Have a nice bath, take a quick nap, watch your favorite TV show, read and write emails, do some gardening or anything that you enjoy doing without your baby. You'll find that this special break (no matter how short it is) will help to rejuvenate yourself so that you can go back and be ready to enjoy your baby.
Bonding with your baby
Bonding is defined as the intense attachment that develops between parents and their baby. Bonding is unlike anything you have felt ever before holding your baby in your hands. It is created in a thousand instances of everyday activities -- when you feed to your baby, when you talk to your baby, when you sing a lullaby for him/her, when you respond to her cries by holding him/her in your hands, when you give him/her a shower, or when you change his/her diaper. It is bonding which makes a mom to wake up in the middle of night to feed her baby. In addition to bringing your new family together, bonding will provide your baby with the basis for healthy emotional and physical development.
Research has shown that bonding fosters a sense of security and positive self-esteem and provides an excellent first model for intimate relationships forged later on in life. But bonding doesn't happen in a split second, nor does it have to occur during a particular and critical window of time. Researchers say there is a "sensitive period" in the moments immediately after birth when mothers and newborns seem particularly primed to tune into each other. But this doesn't mean that if you miss this period, you lose the opportunity to develop a close relationship with your child. For many parents, bonding is a byproduct of everyday caregiving. You may not even know it's happening until you observe your baby's first smile and suddenly realize that you're filled with love and joy.
Bonding is really a continuation of the relationship that began during pregnancy. The physical and chemical changes that were occurring in your body reminded you of the presence of this person. Birth cements this bond and gives it reality. Now you can see, feel, and talk to the little person whom you knew only as the "bulge" or from the movements and the heartbeat you heard through medical instruments. Bonding allows you to transfer your life-giving love for the infant inside to caregiving love on the outside. Inside, you gave your blood; outside, you give your milk, eyes, hands, and voice—your entire self.
Most infants are ready to bond immediately. Parents, on the other hand, may have a mixture of feelings about it. Some parents feel an intense attachment within the first minutes or days after their baby's birth. For others — especially if the baby is adopted or has been placed in intensive care — it may take a bit longer.
Research has shown that bonding fosters a sense of security and positive self-esteem and provides an excellent first model for intimate relationships forged later on in life. But bonding doesn't happen in a split second, nor does it have to occur during a particular and critical window of time. Researchers say there is a "sensitive period" in the moments immediately after birth when mothers and newborns seem particularly primed to tune into each other. But this doesn't mean that if you miss this period, you lose the opportunity to develop a close relationship with your child. For many parents, bonding is a byproduct of everyday caregiving. You may not even know it's happening until you observe your baby's first smile and suddenly realize that you're filled with love and joy.
Bonding is really a continuation of the relationship that began during pregnancy. The physical and chemical changes that were occurring in your body reminded you of the presence of this person. Birth cements this bond and gives it reality. Now you can see, feel, and talk to the little person whom you knew only as the "bulge" or from the movements and the heartbeat you heard through medical instruments. Bonding allows you to transfer your life-giving love for the infant inside to caregiving love on the outside. Inside, you gave your blood; outside, you give your milk, eyes, hands, and voice—your entire self.
Most infants are ready to bond immediately. Parents, on the other hand, may have a mixture of feelings about it. Some parents feel an intense attachment within the first minutes or days after their baby's birth. For others — especially if the baby is adopted or has been placed in intensive care — it may take a bit longer.
Q: What are some of the first signs of labor?
A: Sometimes when you're in prenatal classes other women will scare you to death by talking about their 32-hour labors. What you sometimes don't figure out until later on is that they sometimes start the clock running the moment they experience a bit of early labor. The early labor phase tends to be the longest phase of the first stage of labor. It can last for hours or even days.
So these are the kind of symptoms you're likely to experience as your earliest warnings that this is the real thing and you're going to get to meet your baby relatively soon:
Backache
Menstrual-like cramping
Indigestion
Diarrhea
A feeling of warmth in the abdomen
Bloody show (the passage of blood-tinged mucus)
A trickling or gushing sensation if your membranes have ruptured
Bear in mind you may only have a couple of these symptoms, so don't wait for them all to occur. A lot of women also report feeling restless, edgy, and generally uncomfortable as their body prepares for labor.
So these are the kind of symptoms you're likely to experience as your earliest warnings that this is the real thing and you're going to get to meet your baby relatively soon:
Backache
Menstrual-like cramping
Indigestion
Diarrhea
A feeling of warmth in the abdomen
Bloody show (the passage of blood-tinged mucus)
A trickling or gushing sensation if your membranes have ruptured
Bear in mind you may only have a couple of these symptoms, so don't wait for them all to occur. A lot of women also report feeling restless, edgy, and generally uncomfortable as their body prepares for labor.
The Labour Room (Q & A)
Q: What is the shortest period of time you know between the first sign that my body is going into labor to the moment I meet my baby?
A: The length of labor can vary widely and also depends on whether this is your first baby or not. If this is your first baby, you will have plenty of time between the signs of early labor and when your baby arrives. An average first labor runs about 12 hours; however, the range can be as much as two hours to 24 hours plus. A second or subsequent labor averages about half that 12 hours, with the range being anywhere from 30 minutes to 12-15 hours.
So you can see, if this is your first labor you will have lots of time, even once you've entered a more active phase of labor where your contractions are strong and regular. If, on the other hand, this is not your first baby, and you delivered very quickly the last time, you and your doctor may want to consider strategies, including the possibility of inducing your labor to help guarantee that your baby is born in the hospital and not prior to your arrival.
A: The length of labor can vary widely and also depends on whether this is your first baby or not. If this is your first baby, you will have plenty of time between the signs of early labor and when your baby arrives. An average first labor runs about 12 hours; however, the range can be as much as two hours to 24 hours plus. A second or subsequent labor averages about half that 12 hours, with the range being anywhere from 30 minutes to 12-15 hours.
So you can see, if this is your first labor you will have lots of time, even once you've entered a more active phase of labor where your contractions are strong and regular. If, on the other hand, this is not your first baby, and you delivered very quickly the last time, you and your doctor may want to consider strategies, including the possibility of inducing your labor to help guarantee that your baby is born in the hospital and not prior to your arrival.
Aware Of The Pregnancy Risk Factors
There are several pregnancy risk factors that each expectant mother is expected to be aware of. For example, pregnancy and depression is very usual. Some of these factors can even adversely affect the development of the fetus into a healthy baby. Again, you might find some of these factors that are within your control while there are other factors as well that may not be under your control. Following are some of those important pregnancy risk factors. In order to make things much easier for you, it is important for you to understand these things. Smoking
How many times have you heard in your life that smoking is injurious to your health? Pregnancy is something that must be dealt with much care and precaution. Therefore, needless to say that when you are pregnant, do not smoke. Smoking during pregnancy is not only injurious to your health but also for the upcoming baby. When you smoke during pregnancy, the quantity of oxygen that the baby receives is decreased. This, in turn, maximizes the possibilities of bleeding, miscarriage, and morning sickness. Again, when you smoke, you also inhale certain chemicals that may also cause certain other health problems both for you and for your baby. Other possible consequences may also include pregnancy high blood pressure, premature birth, reduced birth weight, stillbirth, and more risk of SIDS. Alcohol
Consuming alcohol during pregnancy is more dangerous than smoking. Medical problems, low birth weight, and behavior abnormalities are some of the possible consequences of consuming alcohol during the pregnancy. Therefore, an expectant mother should stop drinking as soon as she gets the knowledge that she is pregnant and is responsible for a life that is growing inside her.
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Drugs And Herbal Remedies
Sometimes, certain drugs and herbal remedies may also cause certain complications during pregnancy and must be treated an important pregnancy risk factor. Therefore, make sure that you are taking only those medications that has been prescribed by your doctor or health care provider. If you take medications without consulting your doctor, this may sometimes adversely affect the growth of the unborn baby. Exercise During Pregnancy
Exercise during pregnancy is important as it can make things much easier fro you at the time of labor. But, you must keep in mind that only those exercise that your doctor has approved for and that fits on your medical and health condition is the right for you. Always remember that exercise must be of mild nature as over-exertions may be very dangerous both for you and for your baby. It is important for you to start with light exercises and reduce the intensity of exercise when you are close to labor. Walking, swimming, and yoga are some of the good pregnancy exercises and they usually do not cause any pregnancy risk.
There are various other pregnancy risk factors as well that seek your careful consideration. For example, multiple sex partners can increase risk of STD's and increased pregnancy morning sickness. The mother's age is also an important factor. You must keep in mind that pregnancy before 15 years and after 35 years is riskier. Some other factors include heart disease, excessive stress or depression, asthma, and bleeding.
How many times have you heard in your life that smoking is injurious to your health? Pregnancy is something that must be dealt with much care and precaution. Therefore, needless to say that when you are pregnant, do not smoke. Smoking during pregnancy is not only injurious to your health but also for the upcoming baby. When you smoke during pregnancy, the quantity of oxygen that the baby receives is decreased. This, in turn, maximizes the possibilities of bleeding, miscarriage, and morning sickness. Again, when you smoke, you also inhale certain chemicals that may also cause certain other health problems both for you and for your baby. Other possible consequences may also include pregnancy high blood pressure, premature birth, reduced birth weight, stillbirth, and more risk of SIDS. Alcohol
Consuming alcohol during pregnancy is more dangerous than smoking. Medical problems, low birth weight, and behavior abnormalities are some of the possible consequences of consuming alcohol during the pregnancy. Therefore, an expectant mother should stop drinking as soon as she gets the knowledge that she is pregnant and is responsible for a life that is growing inside her.
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Drugs And Herbal Remedies
Sometimes, certain drugs and herbal remedies may also cause certain complications during pregnancy and must be treated an important pregnancy risk factor. Therefore, make sure that you are taking only those medications that has been prescribed by your doctor or health care provider. If you take medications without consulting your doctor, this may sometimes adversely affect the growth of the unborn baby. Exercise During Pregnancy
Exercise during pregnancy is important as it can make things much easier fro you at the time of labor. But, you must keep in mind that only those exercise that your doctor has approved for and that fits on your medical and health condition is the right for you. Always remember that exercise must be of mild nature as over-exertions may be very dangerous both for you and for your baby. It is important for you to start with light exercises and reduce the intensity of exercise when you are close to labor. Walking, swimming, and yoga are some of the good pregnancy exercises and they usually do not cause any pregnancy risk.
There are various other pregnancy risk factors as well that seek your careful consideration. For example, multiple sex partners can increase risk of STD's and increased pregnancy morning sickness. The mother's age is also an important factor. You must keep in mind that pregnancy before 15 years and after 35 years is riskier. Some other factors include heart disease, excessive stress or depression, asthma, and bleeding.
Exercising After Pregnancy
Generally most women can begin a formal exercise program within 6 weeks of giving birth, though this time frame might be slightly longer for some women, including those recovering from a C-section. Most women recovering from a C-section will be able to exercise after there incision has healed and their doctor has cleared them for exercise.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part on how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and few interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may feel up to some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity should generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready for a formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth (note… this is also how long most physicians recommend that women abstain from intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity level before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK ON AN EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical trauma when you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too soon will delay your recovery and could potentially injure your body permanently. It may also take you longer than six weeks to heal fully if you start exercising too soon.
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Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you hit the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Most will encourage light exercise including walking, and some may encourage other types of activity particularly if you were active before you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part on how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and few interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may feel up to some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity should generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready for a formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth (note… this is also how long most physicians recommend that women abstain from intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity level before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK ON AN EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical trauma when you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too soon will delay your recovery and could potentially injure your body permanently. It may also take you longer than six weeks to heal fully if you start exercising too soon.
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Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you hit the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Most will encourage light exercise including walking, and some may encourage other types of activity particularly if you were active before you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.
Exercising After Pregnancy
Generally most women can begin a formal exercise program within 6 weeks of giving birth, though this time frame might be slightly longer for some women, including those recovering from a C-section. Most women recovering from a C-section will be able to exercise after there incision has healed and their doctor has cleared them for exercise.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part on how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and few interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may feel up to some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity should generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready for a formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth (note… this is also how long most physicians recommend that women abstain from intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity level before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK ON AN EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical trauma when you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too soon will delay your recovery and could potentially injure your body permanently. It may also take you longer than six weeks to heal fully if you start exercising too soon.
Advertisement
Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you hit the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Most will encourage light exercise including walking, and some may encourage other types of activity particularly if you were active before you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part on how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and few interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may feel up to some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity should generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready for a formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth (note… this is also how long most physicians recommend that women abstain from intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity level before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK ON AN EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical trauma when you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too soon will delay your recovery and could potentially injure your body permanently. It may also take you longer than six weeks to heal fully if you start exercising too soon.
Advertisement
Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you hit the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Most will encourage light exercise including walking, and some may encourage other types of activity particularly if you were active before you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.
Reasons to Exercise During Pregnancy
Everyone knows that exercise is good for your health. Exercising during pregnancy can have additional benefits. Generally, exercise should be light, especially during the first few weeks of pregnancy while your body adjusts to the changes. Heavy exercise can divert blood flow from crucial areas and most women that exercise regularly should tone down their workouts during pregnancy.
Walking, swimming, and yoga are two popular exercise activities suitable for pregnant women. Other forms of exercise like weight lifting are okay too as long as it is not too strenuous. Most experts recommend exercising 3-4 times a week, unless a medical condition prevents it. If in doubt, always consult a physician first. Listed below are some of the top reasons for exercising during pregnancy.
Exercise can reduce the length of labor and reduce recovery times. The right exercise routines will increase stamina needed for delivery.
Improve emotional health - exercise lowers stress and improves emotional health and can make it easier for the new mother to get through the experience of pregnancy.
Exercise can help with weight management after the child is born. A common concern with most mothers is losing weight after pregnancy. Exercising during pregnancy can make postpartum weight loss easier.
Exercise is good for your unborn baby. By keeping your body healthy, you are also helping out your baby.
Reduced pregnancy side effects - Symptoms like headaches, fatigue, swelling, and constipation are common in pregnant women. Exercising has been shown to reduce the occurence of these symptoms.
Decrease risk of premature birth - exercise has been shown in studies to decrease the risk of premature birth by about 50%.
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Make sure to drink plenty of fluids before exercising, have a nutritious diet, and avoid over exertion. Also, listen to your body - if you start feeling sick or nauseous, then you should stop and rest.
Walking, swimming, and yoga are two popular exercise activities suitable for pregnant women. Other forms of exercise like weight lifting are okay too as long as it is not too strenuous. Most experts recommend exercising 3-4 times a week, unless a medical condition prevents it. If in doubt, always consult a physician first. Listed below are some of the top reasons for exercising during pregnancy.
Exercise can reduce the length of labor and reduce recovery times. The right exercise routines will increase stamina needed for delivery.
Improve emotional health - exercise lowers stress and improves emotional health and can make it easier for the new mother to get through the experience of pregnancy.
Exercise can help with weight management after the child is born. A common concern with most mothers is losing weight after pregnancy. Exercising during pregnancy can make postpartum weight loss easier.
Exercise is good for your unborn baby. By keeping your body healthy, you are also helping out your baby.
Reduced pregnancy side effects - Symptoms like headaches, fatigue, swelling, and constipation are common in pregnant women. Exercising has been shown to reduce the occurence of these symptoms.
Decrease risk of premature birth - exercise has been shown in studies to decrease the risk of premature birth by about 50%.
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Make sure to drink plenty of fluids before exercising, have a nutritious diet, and avoid over exertion. Also, listen to your body - if you start feeling sick or nauseous, then you should stop and rest.
Safe Exercise During Pregnancy
How to Remain Fit While Pregnant
Exercise is healthy and even more so for pregnant women. They should start at the early stages of their pregnancy to prepare the body physically for the added work of the pregnancy, labour and delivery. Follow the tips below for a full body pregnancy workout that is also safe exercise during pregnancy.
Do prenatal exercises which will help strengthen the body structure providing physical comfort, support and good posture.
A brisk walk every day in the fresh air helps to keep muscles in tone. Wear sensible shoes and keep abreast of the distance walked and the weather conditions.
For a more strenuous pregnancy workout than a brisk walk, try activities like running, bike riding and playing tennis. These may be continued after being guided by good judgement.
Use your heart rate as your exercise guide. To check your heart rate, count your pulse for 10 seconds after you stop exercising and multiply this number by 6 to obtain the number of beats per minute. This should be used to monitor your body’s response to exercise. Ensure you remain within 60-65% of your maximum heart rate.
The same exercise routines time after time can become monotonous and boring . A good way to make the safe exercise during pregnancy more exciting and something to look forward to is by adding music. Take your set of headphones to the gym or switch on your stereo at home while doing your workout. Music helps in calming you down and also aids in relaxation. You can also arouse your body with the energy of sounds.
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Frequent breaks should be taken during the pregnancy workout to avoid overheating which may harm the unborn baby and you should also be careful to limit strenuous exercises while pregnant.
Here are some exercise guidelines which should be followed:
Ensure you remain within 60-65% of your maximum heart rate.
Drink as much water as you can during and after exercise.
Avoid oxygen deficiency by not exercising to the point of being totally out of breath. You should be able to talk normally and even sing!
Avoid extreme tiredness by not exercising to the point of exhaustion. Limit stretching and bending exercises from the 26th week of pregnancy until delivery.
Take extra care when exercising in hot weather as when doing strenuous exercises your core body temperature can rise. Excessive heat is unhealthy for you and the baby.
Choose an exercise that is non-weight bearing such as swimming late in pregnancy because of increased pressure and discomfort.
Try to exercise regularly at least three times per week. Avoid vigorous exercise when ill or during hot, humid weather. Always exercise on a wooden floor or a tightly carpeted surface. Avoid extreme stretching exercises due to the relaxation of connective tissue. Undertake a five minute warm up such as slow walking before a vigorous pregnancy workout.
Pregnant women should follow a non weight bearing exercise such as swimming or cycling on a stationary bike which tend to have fewer injuries. When looking to begin safe exercise during pregnancy, it is always a good idea to discuss any planned exercise with your doctor before you begin.
Exercise is healthy and even more so for pregnant women. They should start at the early stages of their pregnancy to prepare the body physically for the added work of the pregnancy, labour and delivery. Follow the tips below for a full body pregnancy workout that is also safe exercise during pregnancy.
Do prenatal exercises which will help strengthen the body structure providing physical comfort, support and good posture.
A brisk walk every day in the fresh air helps to keep muscles in tone. Wear sensible shoes and keep abreast of the distance walked and the weather conditions.
For a more strenuous pregnancy workout than a brisk walk, try activities like running, bike riding and playing tennis. These may be continued after being guided by good judgement.
Use your heart rate as your exercise guide. To check your heart rate, count your pulse for 10 seconds after you stop exercising and multiply this number by 6 to obtain the number of beats per minute. This should be used to monitor your body’s response to exercise. Ensure you remain within 60-65% of your maximum heart rate.
The same exercise routines time after time can become monotonous and boring . A good way to make the safe exercise during pregnancy more exciting and something to look forward to is by adding music. Take your set of headphones to the gym or switch on your stereo at home while doing your workout. Music helps in calming you down and also aids in relaxation. You can also arouse your body with the energy of sounds.
Advertisement
Frequent breaks should be taken during the pregnancy workout to avoid overheating which may harm the unborn baby and you should also be careful to limit strenuous exercises while pregnant.
Here are some exercise guidelines which should be followed:
Ensure you remain within 60-65% of your maximum heart rate.
Drink as much water as you can during and after exercise.
Avoid oxygen deficiency by not exercising to the point of being totally out of breath. You should be able to talk normally and even sing!
Avoid extreme tiredness by not exercising to the point of exhaustion. Limit stretching and bending exercises from the 26th week of pregnancy until delivery.
Take extra care when exercising in hot weather as when doing strenuous exercises your core body temperature can rise. Excessive heat is unhealthy for you and the baby.
Choose an exercise that is non-weight bearing such as swimming late in pregnancy because of increased pressure and discomfort.
Try to exercise regularly at least three times per week. Avoid vigorous exercise when ill or during hot, humid weather. Always exercise on a wooden floor or a tightly carpeted surface. Avoid extreme stretching exercises due to the relaxation of connective tissue. Undertake a five minute warm up such as slow walking before a vigorous pregnancy workout.
Pregnant women should follow a non weight bearing exercise such as swimming or cycling on a stationary bike which tend to have fewer injuries. When looking to begin safe exercise during pregnancy, it is always a good idea to discuss any planned exercise with your doctor before you begin.
Pregnancy Exercise - Do But Do Not Overdo
Pregnancy exercise is very important for the pregnant woman in order to keep herself healthy throughout the incredible journey of pregnancy. It is not good to be lazy just because you are pregnant. You should keep in mind that taking precautions is something different and becoming lazy is something different. If you want a comfortable delivery of the baby, you must do some pregnancy exercise. Researches and statistics have shown that those woman who were doing certain exercises during pregnancy experienced less labor pain and more comfortable delivery. What is more, such a woman is also very much likely to enjoy faster recoveries after the birth of the baby. You should understand that pregnancy exercise is not only beneficial for you but it is also very much beneficial for the new arrival. However, at the same time, it is equally important for you to understand that you are not overdoing these exercises. Moreover, whatever exercise during pregnancy you choose to go for, make sure that your doctor has approved for the same. Benefits of Pregnancy Exercise
The pregnancy exercise if done properly carries a wide array of advantages for both the mother and the upcoming baby. It does not only make the process of delivery much easier fro you, but it also helps you in getting much relief from fatigue and other discomforts that you may face during the pregnancy period. A proper pregnancy exercise also strengthens your back muscles and provides the much needed stress relief. Moreover, it reduces fat and most importantly, it usually results in a faster recovery after the birth of the baby. You experience less labor pain because the pregnancy exercise helps you strengthen your muscles. The list is not over yet. A proper exercise during pregnancy throughout your pregnancy also helps you regain your stamina and energy levels faster, which is very essential for you to look after the new arrival.
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Which pregnancy exercise is the best?
Those exercises during pregnancy that your doctor approves and best fit your health and medical condition is the best for you. There are various kinds of exercises that you may choose from. However, you must keep in mind that not all sorts of exercises fit in every circumstance. There might be a pregnancy exercise that is best for your pregnant friend, but that not be a best choice for you. You should choose those pregnancy exercises that are less likely to cause any kind of injury and help promote your physical fitness. Some of the best exercises during pregnancy can be listed as follows.
Walking,
Swimming,
Stretching
Yoga,
Dancing
Stationary cycling, and
Low impact prenatal aerobics
Walking is supposed to be best pregnancy exercise among all the exercises. However, when you are taking this exercise, it is also important for you to drink good quantity of water in order to stay well-hydrated.
The pregnancy exercise if done properly carries a wide array of advantages for both the mother and the upcoming baby. It does not only make the process of delivery much easier fro you, but it also helps you in getting much relief from fatigue and other discomforts that you may face during the pregnancy period. A proper pregnancy exercise also strengthens your back muscles and provides the much needed stress relief. Moreover, it reduces fat and most importantly, it usually results in a faster recovery after the birth of the baby. You experience less labor pain because the pregnancy exercise helps you strengthen your muscles. The list is not over yet. A proper exercise during pregnancy throughout your pregnancy also helps you regain your stamina and energy levels faster, which is very essential for you to look after the new arrival.
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Which pregnancy exercise is the best?
Those exercises during pregnancy that your doctor approves and best fit your health and medical condition is the best for you. There are various kinds of exercises that you may choose from. However, you must keep in mind that not all sorts of exercises fit in every circumstance. There might be a pregnancy exercise that is best for your pregnant friend, but that not be a best choice for you. You should choose those pregnancy exercises that are less likely to cause any kind of injury and help promote your physical fitness. Some of the best exercises during pregnancy can be listed as follows.
Walking,
Swimming,
Stretching
Yoga,
Dancing
Stationary cycling, and
Low impact prenatal aerobics
Walking is supposed to be best pregnancy exercise among all the exercises. However, when you are taking this exercise, it is also important for you to drink good quantity of water in order to stay well-hydrated.
Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
Stretch marks are the common term for striae, imperfections in the skin. They appear as red lines on skin that has been thinned out. They are slightly depressed compared to other skin and may have a different texture.
Stretch marks commonly appear on the skin of pregnant women as their skin is stretched rapidly as a result of pregnancy. Typical areas they can be found on are the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs and buttocks.Who will get stretch marks?
It is thought that stretch marks are genetic, or rather, that the type of skin that you inherit determines your susceptibility to stretch marks. The darker your natural skin tone is, the less likely that you will develop them. If your mother had stretch marks you will most likely have them too, although it does not hurt to try and prevent them.How to avoid them
Keeping hydrated is one way to avoid stretch marks, as this helps your skin expand without tearing. You can also use specially formulated creams that are available over the counter. They help retain moisture and promote healing in your skin. Common ingredients include cocoa butter, vitamin E and lanolin.How to treat them
If you do get stretch marks, there are several approaches you can take.
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You can wear them proudly as a badge of motherhood and know that around 75 percent of all pregnant women get them.
You can strategically dress to hide them; Bathing suits on the market today come in enough styles that you should be able to find something suitable.
You can continue the use of stretch mark cream to encourage your skin to rebuild.
You can cover them with waterproof body makeup. It comes in many different skin tones and can be found on the Internet or at select beauty counters.
You can have them removed with laser surgery.
You can have them removed with blue light therapy.
You can have a dermatologist prescribe Retin-A cream (if you are not nursing or pregnant).
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.
Stretch marks commonly appear on the skin of pregnant women as their skin is stretched rapidly as a result of pregnancy. Typical areas they can be found on are the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs and buttocks.Who will get stretch marks?
It is thought that stretch marks are genetic, or rather, that the type of skin that you inherit determines your susceptibility to stretch marks. The darker your natural skin tone is, the less likely that you will develop them. If your mother had stretch marks you will most likely have them too, although it does not hurt to try and prevent them.How to avoid them
Keeping hydrated is one way to avoid stretch marks, as this helps your skin expand without tearing. You can also use specially formulated creams that are available over the counter. They help retain moisture and promote healing in your skin. Common ingredients include cocoa butter, vitamin E and lanolin.How to treat them
If you do get stretch marks, there are several approaches you can take.
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You can wear them proudly as a badge of motherhood and know that around 75 percent of all pregnant women get them.
You can strategically dress to hide them; Bathing suits on the market today come in enough styles that you should be able to find something suitable.
You can continue the use of stretch mark cream to encourage your skin to rebuild.
You can cover them with waterproof body makeup. It comes in many different skin tones and can be found on the Internet or at select beauty counters.
You can have them removed with laser surgery.
You can have them removed with blue light therapy.
You can have a dermatologist prescribe Retin-A cream (if you are not nursing or pregnant).
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.
Sleep Problem During Pregnancy
You knew that after the baby is born that you will be getting less sleep every night than you were before. But you probaby did not expect that you would not be able to sleep while you were pregnant!
Early in your pregnancy your body protected the growing baby by requiring that you sleep a lot. But later in your pregnancy you find it difficult to get a good night’s rest.
Getting a good night's rest while you are pregnant can even have an impact on your labor.Causes of restless sleep
Many factors work together to keep you awake at night. Common reasons are:Trouble getting comfortable
As the size of your baby increases, it becomes harder to find a comfortable position to sleep in, particularly if you used to be a back or stomach sleeper. Pregnant women should sleep on their left side. This is because your liver is on your right side, and lying on the left takes the pressure of your uterus off of that organ. Lying on your side also helps your heart to function properly; lying on your back puts pressure on the large vein that carries blood from your legs back to your heart.
If you frequently find yourself turning over onto your back in the middle of the night, put a pillow behind your back to prevent yourself from turning over. Using a pillow at the small of your back will also remove some pressure off of your back. Experiment with pillows and find what works for you. Try using a full body pillow while lying on your left side with your knees bent. A small pillow under your belly bump may relieve some discomfort too.
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Trips to the bathroom
Pregnancy increased the volume of blood that you have in your body by 30 to 50 percent. Your kidneys are working overtime to filter that extra blood, and this process results in that much extra urine. Another reason for increased trips to the bathroom is that the weight of your growing baby puts pressure on your bladder.Breathing trouble
You may be experiencing shortness of breath as your growing uterus moves upward into your diaphragm, resulting in less space for your lungs. You also require more oxygen while you are pregnant which requires you to breathe at a faster rate.
Early in your pregnancy your body protected the growing baby by requiring that you sleep a lot. But later in your pregnancy you find it difficult to get a good night’s rest.
Getting a good night's rest while you are pregnant can even have an impact on your labor.Causes of restless sleep
Many factors work together to keep you awake at night. Common reasons are:Trouble getting comfortable
As the size of your baby increases, it becomes harder to find a comfortable position to sleep in, particularly if you used to be a back or stomach sleeper. Pregnant women should sleep on their left side. This is because your liver is on your right side, and lying on the left takes the pressure of your uterus off of that organ. Lying on your side also helps your heart to function properly; lying on your back puts pressure on the large vein that carries blood from your legs back to your heart.
If you frequently find yourself turning over onto your back in the middle of the night, put a pillow behind your back to prevent yourself from turning over. Using a pillow at the small of your back will also remove some pressure off of your back. Experiment with pillows and find what works for you. Try using a full body pillow while lying on your left side with your knees bent. A small pillow under your belly bump may relieve some discomfort too.
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Trips to the bathroom
Pregnancy increased the volume of blood that you have in your body by 30 to 50 percent. Your kidneys are working overtime to filter that extra blood, and this process results in that much extra urine. Another reason for increased trips to the bathroom is that the weight of your growing baby puts pressure on your bladder.Breathing trouble
You may be experiencing shortness of breath as your growing uterus moves upward into your diaphragm, resulting in less space for your lungs. You also require more oxygen while you are pregnant which requires you to breathe at a faster rate.
Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy
Many women experience round ligament pain starting in their second trimesters of pregnancy. It can be felt as a short, stabbing pain if you suddenly change position, or it may feel like a dull ache that stays with you after a particularly active day. Typical areas of complaint are the lower abdomen and groin.
The round ligaments surround and support the uterus in the pelvis. As the uterus expands during pregnancy, the ligaments stretch; the stretching is what causes the pain. There is a ligament on each side of your pelvisTips to ease the discomfort of round ligament pain
If you are diagnosed with round ligament pain, try these tips to relieve some of your discomfort:
Avoid sudden movements
Shift positions slowly
Apply warm compresses or a heating pad to the area
Hold the area if you think that you are about to sneeze or cough
Rest as much as possible
Try a warm bath to relax the ligaments
Lay in bed on your side with your knees drawn up slightly. Place a pillow under your stomach and one behind your back to relieve some of the pressure.
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.
The round ligaments surround and support the uterus in the pelvis. As the uterus expands during pregnancy, the ligaments stretch; the stretching is what causes the pain. There is a ligament on each side of your pelvisTips to ease the discomfort of round ligament pain
If you are diagnosed with round ligament pain, try these tips to relieve some of your discomfort:
Avoid sudden movements
Shift positions slowly
Apply warm compresses or a heating pad to the area
Hold the area if you think that you are about to sneeze or cough
Rest as much as possible
Try a warm bath to relax the ligaments
Lay in bed on your side with your knees drawn up slightly. Place a pillow under your stomach and one behind your back to relieve some of the pressure.
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.
Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy
Many women experience round ligament pain starting in their second trimesters of pregnancy. It can be felt as a short, stabbing pain if you suddenly change position, or it may feel like a dull ache that stays with you after a particularly active day. Typical areas of complaint are the lower abdomen and groin.
The round ligaments surround and support the uterus in the pelvis. As the uterus expands during pregnancy, the ligaments stretch; the stretching is what causes the pain. There is a ligament on each side of your pelvisTips to ease the discomfort of round ligament pain
If you are diagnosed with round ligament pain, try these tips to relieve some of your discomfort:
Avoid sudden movements
Shift positions slowly
Apply warm compresses or a heating pad to the area
Hold the area if you think that you are about to sneeze or cough
Rest as much as possible
Try a warm bath to relax the ligaments
Lay in bed on your side with your knees drawn up slightly. Place a pillow under your stomach and one behind your back to relieve some of the pressure.
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.
The round ligaments surround and support the uterus in the pelvis. As the uterus expands during pregnancy, the ligaments stretch; the stretching is what causes the pain. There is a ligament on each side of your pelvisTips to ease the discomfort of round ligament pain
If you are diagnosed with round ligament pain, try these tips to relieve some of your discomfort:
Avoid sudden movements
Shift positions slowly
Apply warm compresses or a heating pad to the area
Hold the area if you think that you are about to sneeze or cough
Rest as much as possible
Try a warm bath to relax the ligaments
Lay in bed on your side with your knees drawn up slightly. Place a pillow under your stomach and one behind your back to relieve some of the pressure.
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.
Restless Legs During Pregnancy
Restless Leg Syndrome is described as the uncontrollable urge to move your legs to relieve deep tingling, crawling, or burning sensations. While little research has been done on Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) in pregnancy, some researchers estimate it to occur in up to 20% of pregnant women during their last trimester of pregnancy.
The symptoms generally manifest themselves while you are at rest, like trying to fall asleep or sitting at a desk. While moving around will temporarily relieve symptoms, they will return as soon as you try to rest again. This is a leading cause of sleep problems and fatigue in pregnancy.Causes
There is no known cause for RLS in pregnancy, but certain factors will put you at greater risk for developing the symptoms.
The biggest risk factor is having immediate family members who have suffered from RLS, as half of all pregnant sufferers have the syndrome in their immediate family. Some other theories summarizing why pregnant women suffer from restless leg syndrome include the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy, iron deficiency, circulatory changes, and folate deficiencies.Treatment
Most of the traditional treatments for RLS are not safe for pregnant women, including most prescription medications. However, iron supplements often prove to relieve symptoms—even in women who are not iron deficient. Drinking caffeine or taking antihistamines can make the symptoms much worse or more frequent, so these substances should be avoided.
It also helps to stay active until you’re ready for bed, rather than relaxing (by sitting or laying down) near bedtime. The longer you are inactive the worse the symptoms become, so waiting until you’re ready to sleep before you lay down will increase your chance of falling asleep and staying asleep. Massages, stretches, breathing or relaxation exercises, hot baths, or cold packs may also help relieve the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome in pregnancy. For most women, the symptoms will disappear shortly after delivery.
The symptoms generally manifest themselves while you are at rest, like trying to fall asleep or sitting at a desk. While moving around will temporarily relieve symptoms, they will return as soon as you try to rest again. This is a leading cause of sleep problems and fatigue in pregnancy.Causes
There is no known cause for RLS in pregnancy, but certain factors will put you at greater risk for developing the symptoms.
The biggest risk factor is having immediate family members who have suffered from RLS, as half of all pregnant sufferers have the syndrome in their immediate family. Some other theories summarizing why pregnant women suffer from restless leg syndrome include the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy, iron deficiency, circulatory changes, and folate deficiencies.Treatment
Most of the traditional treatments for RLS are not safe for pregnant women, including most prescription medications. However, iron supplements often prove to relieve symptoms—even in women who are not iron deficient. Drinking caffeine or taking antihistamines can make the symptoms much worse or more frequent, so these substances should be avoided.
It also helps to stay active until you’re ready for bed, rather than relaxing (by sitting or laying down) near bedtime. The longer you are inactive the worse the symptoms become, so waiting until you’re ready to sleep before you lay down will increase your chance of falling asleep and staying asleep. Massages, stretches, breathing or relaxation exercises, hot baths, or cold packs may also help relieve the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome in pregnancy. For most women, the symptoms will disappear shortly after delivery.
Pubic Pain During Pregnancy
Pubic pain (Symphsis Pubic Dysfunction - SPD) is a common ailment of pregnant women.What causes it?
When pregnant, a woman's body releases massive amounts of the hormone, progesterone, which in addition to other functions, is responsible for the softening of tissues and joints in the pelvis.
As the pelvis is a ring structure, once the softening occurs and it becomes wider, this may cause some instability. This can make certain tasks such as rolling over, and opening one's legs, excruciatingly painful.
Some cases of pubic pain are a result of shoulder dystocia during childbirth - stuck shoulders.Managing the pain
Many women opt to wear a trochanter (pelvic support) belt to relieve the discomfort. These belts work by holding the bones in place, reducing the instability.
Kegel exercises and pelvic tilts are effective in decreasing the level of pain, as these help to strengthen the muscles of the pelvis, which helps to stabilize the area.
Applying warmth to the affected area may also be of some benefit.
When pregnant, a woman's body releases massive amounts of the hormone, progesterone, which in addition to other functions, is responsible for the softening of tissues and joints in the pelvis.
As the pelvis is a ring structure, once the softening occurs and it becomes wider, this may cause some instability. This can make certain tasks such as rolling over, and opening one's legs, excruciatingly painful.
Some cases of pubic pain are a result of shoulder dystocia during childbirth - stuck shoulders.Managing the pain
Many women opt to wear a trochanter (pelvic support) belt to relieve the discomfort. These belts work by holding the bones in place, reducing the instability.
Kegel exercises and pelvic tilts are effective in decreasing the level of pain, as these help to strengthen the muscles of the pelvis, which helps to stabilize the area.
Applying warmth to the affected area may also be of some benefit.
Morning Sickness During Pregnancy
Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy is commonly called morning sickness, although it can occur at any time of the day. The majority of pregnant women have some nausea or vomiting in the first trimester, usually starting at about six weeks. Morning sickness then increases until letting up at around 14 weeks. This is not to say that it can not come and go or last for the entire pregnancy for some women.Causes
The exact cause of morning sickness is not known but some factors are thought to contribute to it. The factors are:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hGC) levels rise during the time that morning sickness is the worst. The hormone is thought to somehow contribute to nausea.
Estrogen levels also rise during early pregnancy and are thought to add to feelings of nausea.
Enhanced sensitivity to smells experienced by pregnant women may trigger the gag reflex.
Progesterone production from the corpus luteum (the follicle from which the egg was expelled).
Some women are more predisposed to having morning sickness than others. Factors include:
Carrying a girl
History of migraines
Multiple pregnancy
History of motion sickness
Morning sickness in previous pregnancy
Morning sickness with birth control pills
Your mother had it
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Morning sickness remedies
If morning sickness has got you down, try these tips:
Arise slowly from bed in the morning and eat a few crackers before you get up.
Don’t let your stomach get empty. Eat small frequent meals.
Have high protein snacks.
Avoid smells that offend you and get plenty of fresh air.
Don’t eat greasy or spicy foods.
Drink plenty of water.
Suck on hard candy. When to call the doctor
If morning sickness goes beyond occasional vomiting you may need to see your doctor. Call your doctor if you can not keep anything down for 24 hours or if you begin to lose weight. Also call your doctor if your urine is dark colored, your heart is racing, or you throw up blood. If severe morning sickness is diagnosed by your doctor, treatment may include medication, hospitalization, or IV fluids.
The exact cause of morning sickness is not known but some factors are thought to contribute to it. The factors are:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hGC) levels rise during the time that morning sickness is the worst. The hormone is thought to somehow contribute to nausea.
Estrogen levels also rise during early pregnancy and are thought to add to feelings of nausea.
Enhanced sensitivity to smells experienced by pregnant women may trigger the gag reflex.
Progesterone production from the corpus luteum (the follicle from which the egg was expelled).
Some women are more predisposed to having morning sickness than others. Factors include:
Carrying a girl
History of migraines
Multiple pregnancy
History of motion sickness
Morning sickness in previous pregnancy
Morning sickness with birth control pills
Your mother had it
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Morning sickness remedies
If morning sickness has got you down, try these tips:
Arise slowly from bed in the morning and eat a few crackers before you get up.
Don’t let your stomach get empty. Eat small frequent meals.
Have high protein snacks.
Avoid smells that offend you and get plenty of fresh air.
Don’t eat greasy or spicy foods.
Drink plenty of water.
Suck on hard candy. When to call the doctor
If morning sickness goes beyond occasional vomiting you may need to see your doctor. Call your doctor if you can not keep anything down for 24 hours or if you begin to lose weight. Also call your doctor if your urine is dark colored, your heart is racing, or you throw up blood. If severe morning sickness is diagnosed by your doctor, treatment may include medication, hospitalization, or IV fluids.
Why Do I Have Hot Flashes During Pregnancy?
If you’re experiencing hot flashes during pregnancy, you’re not alone. Anywhere from 50% - 70% of women experience hot flashes or night sweats during pregnancy. Most women experience the sensation of increased warmth while pregnant. You may find yourself kicking off the covers in the middle of the night or trying to squelch an unquenchable thirst. If kicking off the covers is accompanied by soaked sheets, consider yourself normal.
As in menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate during pregnancy. Some studies show that low levels of estrogen are the root cause of hot flashes, but many more studies prove that it’s not a low level, but rather a fluctuating level of estrogen that set them off.
In pregnancy your body is going through so many changes that a hot flash or two may not concern you. But if these hot flashes become embarrassing or unbearable it’s time to seek treatment. Hot flashes during pregnancy must be approached differently than in menopause. Since pregnancy has its own set of "do’s" and "don’ts" hot flash treatment must be handled with caution.
You must find a natural treatment for your hot flashes during pregnancy. That means that hormone therapy and the use of herbs are out. For obvious reasons you don’t want to introduce hormones to control your hot flashes during pregnancy. But staying away from herbs may not be so obvious. Since herbs are natural it seems that you should be able to use them. Not so. Herbs can do all sorts of things to the body and when you’re pregnant, plus interact with other medications you may be taking. Now is not the time to begin experimenting.
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More natural and simple strategies will ease your hot flashes during pregnancy. Begin by wearing layers. Simply slip your sweater off when you begin to feel too warm. Don’t be shy about turning on a fan or turning down the thermostat. When you cool down, readjust the temperature. And do always carry a beverage with you. Not only are the fluids good for you, but they will help fight off your hot flashes during pregnancy.
If the experience of hot flashes during pregnancy is just one more symptom to make your life miserable during pregnancy, hang in there. It does get better. Visit a support chat room or a local support group. It’s amazing what a relief and comfort it is to talk with someone experiencing the same symptoms, aches and pains, and hot flashes as you are.
As in menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate during pregnancy. Some studies show that low levels of estrogen are the root cause of hot flashes, but many more studies prove that it’s not a low level, but rather a fluctuating level of estrogen that set them off.
In pregnancy your body is going through so many changes that a hot flash or two may not concern you. But if these hot flashes become embarrassing or unbearable it’s time to seek treatment. Hot flashes during pregnancy must be approached differently than in menopause. Since pregnancy has its own set of "do’s" and "don’ts" hot flash treatment must be handled with caution.
You must find a natural treatment for your hot flashes during pregnancy. That means that hormone therapy and the use of herbs are out. For obvious reasons you don’t want to introduce hormones to control your hot flashes during pregnancy. But staying away from herbs may not be so obvious. Since herbs are natural it seems that you should be able to use them. Not so. Herbs can do all sorts of things to the body and when you’re pregnant, plus interact with other medications you may be taking. Now is not the time to begin experimenting.
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More natural and simple strategies will ease your hot flashes during pregnancy. Begin by wearing layers. Simply slip your sweater off when you begin to feel too warm. Don’t be shy about turning on a fan or turning down the thermostat. When you cool down, readjust the temperature. And do always carry a beverage with you. Not only are the fluids good for you, but they will help fight off your hot flashes during pregnancy.
If the experience of hot flashes during pregnancy is just one more symptom to make your life miserable during pregnancy, hang in there. It does get better. Visit a support chat room or a local support group. It’s amazing what a relief and comfort it is to talk with someone experiencing the same symptoms, aches and pains, and hot flashes as you are.
Heartburn During Pregnancy
Heartburn is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Although is has nothing to do with the condition of your heart, it does cause a burning sensation in the center of your chest. It may happen after eating or between meals, and be accompanied by burping and a feeling of indigestion.Causes
It is caused by pregnancy hormones that relax the stomach and intestinal muscles, causing slower movement of food through the stomach. The food and gastric acids remain in the stomach for longer periods of time. The relaxing action of the hormones on the stomach also can cause acid to travel back up the esophagus and cause heartburn. Later in pregnancy heartburn is worsened by the upward pressure of the expanding uterus.Treatment
To help with heartburn, try:
Eating small frequent meals so your stomach does not get overloaded.
Don’t lie down for 30 minutes after eating.
If your heartburn is happening later in pregnancy, try getting on your hands and knees to allow your stomach more room to process the food. Being in this position pulls the uterus away from the stomach.
Pay attention to what foods are aggravating your heartburn and avoid them. Typical culprits are spicy or greasy foods.
Eat small portions of fatty foods as they take the longest to digest.
Coat your stomach with some milk or ice cream before you eat.
Take your liquids away from mealtime to avoid over loading your stomach.
Before meals, take a commercial antacid made from calcium. Ask your healthcare provider first though, as some preparations are not recommended during pregnancy.
It is caused by pregnancy hormones that relax the stomach and intestinal muscles, causing slower movement of food through the stomach. The food and gastric acids remain in the stomach for longer periods of time. The relaxing action of the hormones on the stomach also can cause acid to travel back up the esophagus and cause heartburn. Later in pregnancy heartburn is worsened by the upward pressure of the expanding uterus.Treatment
To help with heartburn, try:
Eating small frequent meals so your stomach does not get overloaded.
Don’t lie down for 30 minutes after eating.
If your heartburn is happening later in pregnancy, try getting on your hands and knees to allow your stomach more room to process the food. Being in this position pulls the uterus away from the stomach.
Pay attention to what foods are aggravating your heartburn and avoid them. Typical culprits are spicy or greasy foods.
Eat small portions of fatty foods as they take the longest to digest.
Coat your stomach with some milk or ice cream before you eat.
Take your liquids away from mealtime to avoid over loading your stomach.
Before meals, take a commercial antacid made from calcium. Ask your healthcare provider first though, as some preparations are not recommended during pregnancy.
Managing Headache During Pregnancy
One of the common phases people, especially of women, is headache during pregnancy. Considered as a common complaint during pregnancy, specifically during the first and third trimesters, doctors say it is rarely a signal of a serious problem. During pregnancy, experts say that the possible cause of headache during this time is quite uncertain.
In the first trimester, headaches occur because of hormone changes you experience while in the third trimester, headaches are felt because of your having to carry additional weight and changes in your usual posture.
Aside from these, experts suspect that eating cold foods, added caffeine intake, sleeplessness, general fatigue, sinus congestion, allergies, eyestrain, stress, depression, hunger, and even dehydration.
The most common form of headache experienced during pregnancy is migraine that occurs when the blood vessels in the brain constrict and dilate. Experts say that about one in every five women experience migraine headache at least once in their lifetime and about 15 percent of them get migraines for the first time when become pregnant.
Most pregnant women agree that migraine is characterized by severe throbbing pain in the head and is accompanied by vomiting and dizziness. Although headache during pregnancy is normal, you don’t have to endure it if you cannot really tolerate the throbbing sensation. The most common practice in relieving headache during pregnancy is by taking in pain medications.
Doctors say that acetaminophen is safe to take in as long as proper dosage is administered. But, aside from acetaminophen, painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and most prescription headache medicines are restricted to women who are pregnant. Make sure that you consult your physician first what are the safest medications you can take in if you can no longer tolerate the pain.
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Aside from taking in prescription medication, here are some other ways to relieve headache your experience during pregnancy:
Find out what are the possible causes that trigger the throbbing pain. Stress is actually one of the most common factors that triggers headache during pregnancy. What you can do is to recognize what are the things that stress you out and find a way to avoid them. Aside from identifying and accepting the reasons why are you stressed out, you can also minimize stress by eating regularly and drinking plenty of liquids. You should also rest and exercise whenever you can. Aside from resting, try indulging to relaxing activities such as by meditation, listening to music, or writing. Also avoid taking in or eating products that may cause headache such as alcohol, foods has MSG, artificial sweeteners, aged cheese and cultured dairy products and the like. If possible, try to stay away from people who are stressful and always keep the communication lines between you and your partner open.
Try using compresses to relieve the pain. Apply a warm or cool compress to your forehead or the base of your neck can indeed do wonders for migraines.
If possible, take a shower as often as you can. Since cold showers help constrict dilated blood vessels in the body, it is a simple and easy remedy for headaches. If it’s not possible to take a shower, make sure that you can splash cool water on your face to relieve the pain.
Indulge into a relaxing and soothing massage. A full-body massage administered by a trained therapist can do wonders in untangling the knots of pain in your head during pregnancy. Ask him/her to concentrate on the neck, shoulder, and back muscles to relieve the stress.
Make sure you don’t get hungry or thirsty. Low blood sugar usually causes headaches. Make sure that you have enough sugar to keep you going. Aside from taking in foods, supply yourself with lots of liquid, especially water to keep you well-hydrated.
In the first trimester, headaches occur because of hormone changes you experience while in the third trimester, headaches are felt because of your having to carry additional weight and changes in your usual posture.
Aside from these, experts suspect that eating cold foods, added caffeine intake, sleeplessness, general fatigue, sinus congestion, allergies, eyestrain, stress, depression, hunger, and even dehydration.
The most common form of headache experienced during pregnancy is migraine that occurs when the blood vessels in the brain constrict and dilate. Experts say that about one in every five women experience migraine headache at least once in their lifetime and about 15 percent of them get migraines for the first time when become pregnant.
Most pregnant women agree that migraine is characterized by severe throbbing pain in the head and is accompanied by vomiting and dizziness. Although headache during pregnancy is normal, you don’t have to endure it if you cannot really tolerate the throbbing sensation. The most common practice in relieving headache during pregnancy is by taking in pain medications.
Doctors say that acetaminophen is safe to take in as long as proper dosage is administered. But, aside from acetaminophen, painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and most prescription headache medicines are restricted to women who are pregnant. Make sure that you consult your physician first what are the safest medications you can take in if you can no longer tolerate the pain.
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Aside from taking in prescription medication, here are some other ways to relieve headache your experience during pregnancy:
Find out what are the possible causes that trigger the throbbing pain. Stress is actually one of the most common factors that triggers headache during pregnancy. What you can do is to recognize what are the things that stress you out and find a way to avoid them. Aside from identifying and accepting the reasons why are you stressed out, you can also minimize stress by eating regularly and drinking plenty of liquids. You should also rest and exercise whenever you can. Aside from resting, try indulging to relaxing activities such as by meditation, listening to music, or writing. Also avoid taking in or eating products that may cause headache such as alcohol, foods has MSG, artificial sweeteners, aged cheese and cultured dairy products and the like. If possible, try to stay away from people who are stressful and always keep the communication lines between you and your partner open.
Try using compresses to relieve the pain. Apply a warm or cool compress to your forehead or the base of your neck can indeed do wonders for migraines.
If possible, take a shower as often as you can. Since cold showers help constrict dilated blood vessels in the body, it is a simple and easy remedy for headaches. If it’s not possible to take a shower, make sure that you can splash cool water on your face to relieve the pain.
Indulge into a relaxing and soothing massage. A full-body massage administered by a trained therapist can do wonders in untangling the knots of pain in your head during pregnancy. Ask him/her to concentrate on the neck, shoulder, and back muscles to relieve the stress.
Make sure you don’t get hungry or thirsty. Low blood sugar usually causes headaches. Make sure that you have enough sugar to keep you going. Aside from taking in foods, supply yourself with lots of liquid, especially water to keep you well-hydrated.
Gingivitis During Pregnancy
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue. It is not painful in the early stages and therefore goes undetected. It is a common condition caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Signs and symptoms
Gum tissue will appear red rather than pink, may be swollen, and bleed easily. It is usually painless. The gums may be moveable rather than tight against the teeth. Pregnancy gingivitis is typically seen in the second month of pregnancy, being at its worst at the end of the pregnancy. Gums may remain swollen for months after delivery. The severity of pregnancy gingivitis depends upon the condition of the mouth before pregnancy. A woman who has gum problems before pregnancy may see her gingivitis worsen dramatically.Causes
During pregnancy hormones are produced that are necessary for the continuation of the pregnancy. These hormones, as a side effect, make the gum tissue over react to the bacteria in plaque. Since pregnancy makes a woman’s gums are more sensitive to plaque, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene while pregnant.To avoid developing pregnancy gingivitis
Brush your teeth every day at least once using fluoride toothpaste.
Select a toothbrush that is soft and has rounded bristles, and fits into all the areas of your mouth.
It should take you two to three minutes to effectively clean your mouth.
Floss daily to remove plaque in between your teeth.
See your dentist regularly, even during pregnancy.
Gum tissue will appear red rather than pink, may be swollen, and bleed easily. It is usually painless. The gums may be moveable rather than tight against the teeth. Pregnancy gingivitis is typically seen in the second month of pregnancy, being at its worst at the end of the pregnancy. Gums may remain swollen for months after delivery. The severity of pregnancy gingivitis depends upon the condition of the mouth before pregnancy. A woman who has gum problems before pregnancy may see her gingivitis worsen dramatically.Causes
During pregnancy hormones are produced that are necessary for the continuation of the pregnancy. These hormones, as a side effect, make the gum tissue over react to the bacteria in plaque. Since pregnancy makes a woman’s gums are more sensitive to plaque, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene while pregnant.To avoid developing pregnancy gingivitis
Brush your teeth every day at least once using fluoride toothpaste.
Select a toothbrush that is soft and has rounded bristles, and fits into all the areas of your mouth.
It should take you two to three minutes to effectively clean your mouth.
Floss daily to remove plaque in between your teeth.
See your dentist regularly, even during pregnancy.
Gas During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women have gas and bloating at some point during their pregnancy. Excess gas can cause abdominal pain and discomfort.Causes of pregnancy gas
Pregnancy hormones cause the muscles of your digestive tract to relax, slowing down digestion and causing gas to build up in your system. Excess gas can cause you to be bloated and uncomfortable, and it can cause you to burp and pass gas.
As your pregnancy progresses your uterus crowds your digestive system. This may result in a bloated feeling after you eat. This crowding also contributes to heartburn.Foods that promote gas
Symptoms may be worse after a big meal or after you eat certain foods. Foods that are likely to cause gas are:
High starch foods like potatoes and pasta
Fiber rich foods like oat bran and beans
Cabbage, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, broccoli, asparagus
Onions, pears and artichokes
If you are marginally lactose intolerant, you may have gas from the addition of these foods to your pregnancy diet.
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Treatment
What can you do to reduce the amount of gas you produce?
Swallow less air. Take your time when you are eating your meal. Chew your food thoroughly, and do not carry on a conversation during your meal.
Eat several small meals instead of less frequent larger meals.
Drink from a cup, not a bottle or a straw. Do not gulp as you drink.
Avoid carbonated beverages, chewing gum, and hard candies.
Eliminate fried and fatty foods from your diet.
Drink plenty of fluids to aid digestion.
Exercise regularly to keep your system moving.
Do not use any over the counter products to treat gas or bloating without talking to your healthcare provider first, some are not safe to take during pregnancy.
Pregnancy hormones cause the muscles of your digestive tract to relax, slowing down digestion and causing gas to build up in your system. Excess gas can cause you to be bloated and uncomfortable, and it can cause you to burp and pass gas.
As your pregnancy progresses your uterus crowds your digestive system. This may result in a bloated feeling after you eat. This crowding also contributes to heartburn.Foods that promote gas
Symptoms may be worse after a big meal or after you eat certain foods. Foods that are likely to cause gas are:
High starch foods like potatoes and pasta
Fiber rich foods like oat bran and beans
Cabbage, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, broccoli, asparagus
Onions, pears and artichokes
If you are marginally lactose intolerant, you may have gas from the addition of these foods to your pregnancy diet.
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Treatment
What can you do to reduce the amount of gas you produce?
Swallow less air. Take your time when you are eating your meal. Chew your food thoroughly, and do not carry on a conversation during your meal.
Eat several small meals instead of less frequent larger meals.
Drink from a cup, not a bottle or a straw. Do not gulp as you drink.
Avoid carbonated beverages, chewing gum, and hard candies.
Eliminate fried and fatty foods from your diet.
Drink plenty of fluids to aid digestion.
Exercise regularly to keep your system moving.
Do not use any over the counter products to treat gas or bloating without talking to your healthcare provider first, some are not safe to take during pregnancy.
Constipation During Pregnancy
Constipation troubles about half of all pregnant women at some point during pregnancy. Constipation is a condition marked by abdominal discomfort, infrequent bowel movements, and difficult passage of hard stools. Causes
Constipation early in pregnancy is usually due to pregnancy hormones. They slow the movement of food through the intestines which causes more water to be drawn from the stool. This results in a firmer stool which due to the slower action of the intestines is hard to pass. Later in pregnancy constipation is aggravated by extra pressure on the large intestine from the growing uterus. Iron supplements may also contribute to constipation.Treatment
To treat constipation, try:
Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet. Fiber moves through the intestines without being digested. Along the way it absorbs water. This assists in moving the stools along and makes passing the stool easier.
To add more fiber to your diet, eat plenty of:
Whole fruit – prunes, pears, figs, apricots
Vegetables – carrots, zucchini, cucumbers, celery
Whole grains – bran cereal, whole grain bread
Legumes – all types of beans and peas
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You can also purchase over the counter fiber supplements to enhance the amount of fiber in your diet. Aim for 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day.
Increase your intake of fluids. The addition of fiber to your diet requires that you also increase the amount of fluid in your diet. If you do not have enough fluids in your system, you can actually make constipation worse. Drink 10 to 12 cups of water per day to ensure you are consuming enough fluids.
Increase your exercise. Regular exercise benefits all of your body, including the regularity of your intestines. Schedule 30 minute exercise periods 3 times a week.
Don’t ignore your internal signals. When you have the urge to move your bowels, do not ignore it. If you do, the signal will become weaker over time, and make constipation worse.
During pregnancy it is not recommended that you take laxatives or use mineral oil to relieve constipation
Constipation early in pregnancy is usually due to pregnancy hormones. They slow the movement of food through the intestines which causes more water to be drawn from the stool. This results in a firmer stool which due to the slower action of the intestines is hard to pass. Later in pregnancy constipation is aggravated by extra pressure on the large intestine from the growing uterus. Iron supplements may also contribute to constipation.Treatment
To treat constipation, try:
Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet. Fiber moves through the intestines without being digested. Along the way it absorbs water. This assists in moving the stools along and makes passing the stool easier.
To add more fiber to your diet, eat plenty of:
Whole fruit – prunes, pears, figs, apricots
Vegetables – carrots, zucchini, cucumbers, celery
Whole grains – bran cereal, whole grain bread
Legumes – all types of beans and peas
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You can also purchase over the counter fiber supplements to enhance the amount of fiber in your diet. Aim for 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day.
Increase your intake of fluids. The addition of fiber to your diet requires that you also increase the amount of fluid in your diet. If you do not have enough fluids in your system, you can actually make constipation worse. Drink 10 to 12 cups of water per day to ensure you are consuming enough fluids.
Increase your exercise. Regular exercise benefits all of your body, including the regularity of your intestines. Schedule 30 minute exercise periods 3 times a week.
Don’t ignore your internal signals. When you have the urge to move your bowels, do not ignore it. If you do, the signal will become weaker over time, and make constipation worse.
During pregnancy it is not recommended that you take laxatives or use mineral oil to relieve constipation
Breast Changes During Pregnancy
One of the first things that you notice when you become pregnant is changes in your breasts. Hormones produced as a result of pregnancy increase blood flow to the area and cause changes in the breast tissue. The changes make your breasts feel like they do before you get your period, but worse – swollen, sore, and sensitive to touch. The changes begin a few weeks after conception and last through the first trimester.
Your breasts will also get bigger, starting at about the 8th week of pregnancy, and continuing through your pregnancy. You can expect them grow a cup size, maybe two if this is your first pregnancy. Your breasts in early pregnancy are storing fat and the milk glands are developing in preparation for nursing. As your breasts increase in size, the skin will feel tight and itchy as the skin is stretched, and you may develop stretch marks.
Increased blood flow to the breasts results in the veins becoming more prominent, and visible through the skin. Your nipples and areolas will grow larger and become more pigmented. You may also notice that the small bumps on your areolas - which are called Montgomery’s tubercles and are oil producing glands – grow in number. Colostrum
Most women begin to produce colostrum around the third month of pregnancy. Colostrum is the first milk that your baby will get when he begins to nurse. You may leak colostrum and it can appear thick and yellow early in pregnancy to colorless around the time of delivery.
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Breast Care
The best thing you can do is to wear a support bra, one with no underwire. Under wires can put pressure on milk glands and interfere with milk production. Go to a maternity store or a department store to get fitted for a proper support bra. Choose a cotton bra over one that is synthetic – cotton is comfortable and breathable. Get a maternity sleep bra for support at night.
In your third trimester, get a selection of nursing bras, if you will be nursing. Select a bra that fits you when the chest band is in the tightest position, so you will have room to grow. If leaking is a problem, use breast pads in your bra. Change them several times a day, and allow your nipples to air dry at each change. When you bathe, do not use soap on your nipples so they do not get dried out.
Your breasts will also get bigger, starting at about the 8th week of pregnancy, and continuing through your pregnancy. You can expect them grow a cup size, maybe two if this is your first pregnancy. Your breasts in early pregnancy are storing fat and the milk glands are developing in preparation for nursing. As your breasts increase in size, the skin will feel tight and itchy as the skin is stretched, and you may develop stretch marks.
Increased blood flow to the breasts results in the veins becoming more prominent, and visible through the skin. Your nipples and areolas will grow larger and become more pigmented. You may also notice that the small bumps on your areolas - which are called Montgomery’s tubercles and are oil producing glands – grow in number. Colostrum
Most women begin to produce colostrum around the third month of pregnancy. Colostrum is the first milk that your baby will get when he begins to nurse. You may leak colostrum and it can appear thick and yellow early in pregnancy to colorless around the time of delivery.
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Breast Care
The best thing you can do is to wear a support bra, one with no underwire. Under wires can put pressure on milk glands and interfere with milk production. Go to a maternity store or a department store to get fitted for a proper support bra. Choose a cotton bra over one that is synthetic – cotton is comfortable and breathable. Get a maternity sleep bra for support at night.
In your third trimester, get a selection of nursing bras, if you will be nursing. Select a bra that fits you when the chest band is in the tightest position, so you will have room to grow. If leaking is a problem, use breast pads in your bra. Change them several times a day, and allow your nipples to air dry at each change. When you bathe, do not use soap on your nipples so they do not get dried out.
Braxton Hicks contractions During Pregnancy
Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic tightening of the uterine muscles. They are considered practice contractions and they help your body prepare for childbirth. Braxton Hicks contractions assist in toning the uterine muscle, promote blood flow to the placenta, and soften the cervix.When do they start?
Although they begin very early in pregnancy, most women do not detect them until late in the second trimester or early in the third trimester. Some women never detect them. They may occur throughout the pregnancy increasing as it gets closer to your due date.Signs and symptoms
The contractions may last from 30 seconds to as long as five minutes. They are not painful except for towards the end of pregnancy, when they are considered false labor. They should be irregular in their intensity and timing. Braxton Hicks contractions should be infrequent and should taper off, not increase in intensity or duration. Trigger factors
There are factors that may trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, they are:
You are very active or lift something heavy
The baby is very active
You have a full bladder
You are dehydrated
Sexual intercourse
Touching your stomach
Or towards the end of pregnancy, your weekly doctor exam
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Treatment
If the contractions are making you really uncomfortable, try these techniques to lessen the discomfort of the contractions.
Take a bath or do something that relaxes you.
Change your activity. If you have been lying down, become active. If you have been active, lay down.
Drink some water to see of the contractions are because you are dehydrated.
Have some warm milk or herbal tea. How to distingush from labor
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor. There are things you can do to alleviate the contractions - real labor will not stop because of a change in activity. True labor pains will grow consistently longer, stronger and closer together. If you are unsure if the contractions are preterm labor, contact your doctor right away. If the contractions increase in intensity or are closer together, or if changing your activity does not cause them to taper off, call your doctor immediately.
Although they begin very early in pregnancy, most women do not detect them until late in the second trimester or early in the third trimester. Some women never detect them. They may occur throughout the pregnancy increasing as it gets closer to your due date.Signs and symptoms
The contractions may last from 30 seconds to as long as five minutes. They are not painful except for towards the end of pregnancy, when they are considered false labor. They should be irregular in their intensity and timing. Braxton Hicks contractions should be infrequent and should taper off, not increase in intensity or duration. Trigger factors
There are factors that may trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, they are:
You are very active or lift something heavy
The baby is very active
You have a full bladder
You are dehydrated
Sexual intercourse
Touching your stomach
Or towards the end of pregnancy, your weekly doctor exam
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Treatment
If the contractions are making you really uncomfortable, try these techniques to lessen the discomfort of the contractions.
Take a bath or do something that relaxes you.
Change your activity. If you have been lying down, become active. If you have been active, lay down.
Drink some water to see of the contractions are because you are dehydrated.
Have some warm milk or herbal tea. How to distingush from labor
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor. There are things you can do to alleviate the contractions - real labor will not stop because of a change in activity. True labor pains will grow consistently longer, stronger and closer together. If you are unsure if the contractions are preterm labor, contact your doctor right away. If the contractions increase in intensity or are closer together, or if changing your activity does not cause them to taper off, call your doctor immediately.
Back Pain During Pregnancy
The majority of women who are pregnant will suffer from back pain at some point during their pregnancy. There are various causes of back pain during pregnancy. Most cases of pregnancy backache are nothing to worry about.Types
The three types of backaches associated with pregnancy are:
Pain in the lower back that happens when you are sitting or standing
Pain that is felt in the back of the pelvis and the buttocks
Pain that is felt while in bed in the lower back Causes
Backaches during pregnancy are usually due to:
Strain on the muscles of the back from the extra weight associated with pregnancy
Posture changes as a result of the extra weight – your center of gravity moves forward and can strain the lower back
Abdominal muscles that are weakened or stretched, as the abdomen supports the back What you can do
You may not be able to completely avoid back pain during pregnancy, but you there are things you can do to reduce the discomfort you experience. Try these tips:
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Maintain good posture at all times, keeping your hips tucked forward and your back straight
Wear sensible, low heeled shoes that have arch support – no high heels!
Do not lift any heavy objects. If you are lifting an object off the floor, bend at the knees, rise up slowly and maintain a straight back
Keep frequently used items in an easily accessible place so you do not have to do a lot of bending and stretching
Do not stand for long periods of time, as this puts too much strain on the body. If standing is unavoidable, place one foot up on a footstool to relieve some of the pressure, and alternate feet occasionally.
Sleep on your left side for best circulation, with pillows between your legs to support your back.
Sleep on a firm mattress to support your back while you sleep. If your mattress is too soft, place a board in between the mattress and box springs to give more support.
Support your growing belly with an abdominal support girdle.
For pain relief, try a heating pad and cold compresses.
Check with your healthcare provider to see what exercises they recommend to safely strengthen the muscles of your abdomen and back.
Have your partner roll a tennis ball up and down your back for a relaxing massage. When to call the doctor
You should call your doctor anytime you think something just isn’t right, and when:
The pain is severe
You have a fever
You are in the second or third trimester and you are having lower back pain. You might be having preterm labor.
Pain that seems to radiate out from a set point
Numbness, weakness, or tingling in your legs. (end)
The three types of backaches associated with pregnancy are:
Pain in the lower back that happens when you are sitting or standing
Pain that is felt in the back of the pelvis and the buttocks
Pain that is felt while in bed in the lower back Causes
Backaches during pregnancy are usually due to:
Strain on the muscles of the back from the extra weight associated with pregnancy
Posture changes as a result of the extra weight – your center of gravity moves forward and can strain the lower back
Abdominal muscles that are weakened or stretched, as the abdomen supports the back What you can do
You may not be able to completely avoid back pain during pregnancy, but you there are things you can do to reduce the discomfort you experience. Try these tips:
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Maintain good posture at all times, keeping your hips tucked forward and your back straight
Wear sensible, low heeled shoes that have arch support – no high heels!
Do not lift any heavy objects. If you are lifting an object off the floor, bend at the knees, rise up slowly and maintain a straight back
Keep frequently used items in an easily accessible place so you do not have to do a lot of bending and stretching
Do not stand for long periods of time, as this puts too much strain on the body. If standing is unavoidable, place one foot up on a footstool to relieve some of the pressure, and alternate feet occasionally.
Sleep on your left side for best circulation, with pillows between your legs to support your back.
Sleep on a firm mattress to support your back while you sleep. If your mattress is too soft, place a board in between the mattress and box springs to give more support.
Support your growing belly with an abdominal support girdle.
For pain relief, try a heating pad and cold compresses.
Check with your healthcare provider to see what exercises they recommend to safely strengthen the muscles of your abdomen and back.
Have your partner roll a tennis ball up and down your back for a relaxing massage. When to call the doctor
You should call your doctor anytime you think something just isn’t right, and when:
The pain is severe
You have a fever
You are in the second or third trimester and you are having lower back pain. You might be having preterm labor.
Pain that seems to radiate out from a set point
Numbness, weakness, or tingling in your legs. (end)
Ankel swelling During Pregnancy
A common discomfort of pregnancy, ankle swelling develops in about 3 out of 4 pregnancies. Ankle swelling is often worse later in the pregnancy, at night, and in hot weather. Most cases of ankle swelling that develop during pregnancy will resolve after delivery. Ankle swelling is also known as edema.Causes
During pregnancy the body manufactures extra blood and other fluids to support the baby’s growth. The average amount of fluids the body accrues is around 6.5 Liters. Some of this extra fluid settles in the feet and legs due to the effect of gravity on the body. The weight of the growing uterus is also a factor in ankle swelling. The uterus puts pressure on the veins of the legs, and decreases their ability to return blood to the heart resulting in fluid buildup in the legsSymptoms
You may have ankle swelling if your feet and ankles are:
Swollen
Have skin that is tight in the area
The skin may appear shiny
The skin may appear purplish in color Treatment
To treat swollen ankles during pregnancy:
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Stay off your feet as much as possible
Take periodic breaks if you must stand, and elevate your feet above the level of your heart
Sleep on your left side to improve circulation
Use a footrest when sitting and do not cross your legs
Stay cool in warm weather
Use a swimming pool that it at least 4 foot deep. The water will help support the weight of the baby and improve circulation
Wear loose fitting clothing
Talk with your health care provider about using support hose
Do not wear tight fitting socks or hose that have tight elastic bands around the foot or ankle area
Wear comfortable, loose fitting shoes
Exercise regularly to improve circulation
Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
Increase the amount of fluids you take in. This will help to flush out impurities and improve blood flow. When to call the doctor
Swollen ankles are typically of little concern, but you should call your doctor immediately if you have:
Swelling that comes on suddenly or is very severe, as it could indicate preeclampsia.
Ankle swelling that is accompanied by swelling of the hands and face
Swelling that is only in one leg, ankle or foot
Pain or tenderness in only one leg.
During pregnancy the body manufactures extra blood and other fluids to support the baby’s growth. The average amount of fluids the body accrues is around 6.5 Liters. Some of this extra fluid settles in the feet and legs due to the effect of gravity on the body. The weight of the growing uterus is also a factor in ankle swelling. The uterus puts pressure on the veins of the legs, and decreases their ability to return blood to the heart resulting in fluid buildup in the legsSymptoms
You may have ankle swelling if your feet and ankles are:
Swollen
Have skin that is tight in the area
The skin may appear shiny
The skin may appear purplish in color Treatment
To treat swollen ankles during pregnancy:
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Stay off your feet as much as possible
Take periodic breaks if you must stand, and elevate your feet above the level of your heart
Sleep on your left side to improve circulation
Use a footrest when sitting and do not cross your legs
Stay cool in warm weather
Use a swimming pool that it at least 4 foot deep. The water will help support the weight of the baby and improve circulation
Wear loose fitting clothing
Talk with your health care provider about using support hose
Do not wear tight fitting socks or hose that have tight elastic bands around the foot or ankle area
Wear comfortable, loose fitting shoes
Exercise regularly to improve circulation
Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
Increase the amount of fluids you take in. This will help to flush out impurities and improve blood flow. When to call the doctor
Swollen ankles are typically of little concern, but you should call your doctor immediately if you have:
Swelling that comes on suddenly or is very severe, as it could indicate preeclampsia.
Ankle swelling that is accompanied by swelling of the hands and face
Swelling that is only in one leg, ankle or foot
Pain or tenderness in only one leg.
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