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

From conception to 12 or 14 weeks from the last normal menstrual cycle marks the first trimester of pregnancy. During this period, the mother-to-be often experiences morning sickness (vomiting and nausea), tiredness, tender breast and frequent urination during this stage. In order to prevent nausea, it is advised to eat small frequent meals. An alternate period of activity and rest is recommended for the expectant mother. Walking is the best physical activity during this stage.

Often considered as the “Golden Period” of pregnancy is the second trimester. During this stage, the physically demanding signs and symptoms of pregnancy have subsided. There are better sleep patterns, a paramount sign of advancement in the healthy pregnancy process. It is also during this time that the most joyful moment is experienced by the mother-to-be. The first heartbeat of the baby can be heard; moreover, an ultrasound usually done in around 19 weeks may make one feel the diverse movements of your bundle of joy. The ugly stretch marks, which is a cause for worries for women may become visible. Do not scratch the abdominal area to lessen the chances of pregnancy stretch marks.

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

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

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

Giving birth will no doubt be one of the most magical moments of a woman’s life and to ensure that your child is strong and happy, it is important you do all you can to have a healthy pregnancy.

After giving birth, a paternity test can be done in the event that there’s a need to prove who the father of your baby is. The legal paternity testing requires a DNA material from both the baby and from the alleged father. The DNA paternity test is almost 100% accurate.

Tags: Pregnancy

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