Starting from the first day of the last regular period to the day when you deliver your baby, pregnancy lasts for nearly forty weeks. After the discovery of a pregnancy, if expectant mothers already know various stages that they will undergo, it becomes easier for them to cope up with the complications involved and take care of themselves in a better way. According to the World Health Organization, everyday, nearly 1500 women are affected by complications related to pregnancy.
Early Stage
The symptoms of pregnancy depend on various factors and vary from person to person. The most obvious sign of pregnancy is the absence of a menstrual cycle. The fetus grows rapidly during the early stage of pregnancy. Thus, it is good for the baby if you detect pregnancy early and maintain a proper diet. After six to twelve days, the embryo becomes implanted on the walls of the uterus. This results in cramps and bleeding known as implant bleeding. Other symptoms such as dizziness, vaginal discharge and frequent urination are very common.
The First Trimester
The first trimester of pregnancy is exciting but energy depleting. It becomes necessary for expectant mothers to communicate with their doctors and undergo a general physical examination. Their doctors should help them to determine the expected due date depending on their last period. He would also recommend some prenatal vitamins. Expectant mothers will experience symptoms such as dizziness and nausea. As their pregnancy moves forward, they also notice tenderness and swelling in their breasts and nipples. Frequent urination and swelling of the abdomen is also expected. Developing an exercise regimen and diet plan are prudent actions.
Second Trimester
During the second trimester, the baby develops rapidly in size. It becomes necessary for expectant mothers to recognize their limitations (in terms of nutritional deficiencies) and take adequate care of themselves. They should not lift heavy items. The second trimester is often characterized by craving for certain foods. Expectant mothers should schedule a glucose test to attempt to detect the possibility of any gestational diabetes. A baby begins to develop hair during this trimester. Expectant mothers may also experience some swelling in their legs and feet, with some pressure on their backs. This presents another reason to maintain their health with the proper fitness.
Third Trimester
This is the most tiresome period of pregnancy. The baby has almost completely developed and continues to gain size and weight. Enhancements occur in the baby's brain as well as her lungs. With the baby's growth, its mother will feel pressure on her bladder as well as her pelvis. Her baby will exhibit a lot of movement and will seem to have exhausted all of its space. According to Babynames.org, the baby gains nearly 28 grams per day, during the third trimester.
Pregnancy Due Date
Expectant mothers must become prepared mentally as well as physically for their delivery date. At this stage, they will show signs such as false contractions, mucous plug and water breaking. Other signs include constipation, diarrhea and back pain. It becomes necessary for expectant mothers to consult their doctors and labor coaches to help them to settle the anxiety related to childbirth. The baby's normal weight should average around 7.6 pounds.
