8 Early Pregnancy Symptoms - How To Find Out If You Are Pregnant

You feel queasy. You're experiencing a headache. You just don't feel too good. Blame it on yesterday's seafood? Or are you catching a cold? Or could it be that you're pregnant? How can you tell the difference?

This article will hope fully lead on the right path. We will discuss early pregnancy symptoms and signs that you should keep an eye out for.

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One of the most telling sign of being pregnant is a delay in your menstruation. If you miss your period and have been sexually active, then you should take a pregnancy test kit. Keep in mind that many women still get bleeding, but it will be lighter and for shorter days.

Besides missing your period, you could also experience some spotting or light bleeding. This normally takes place very early in the pregnancy stages, somewhere between 6 to 12 days after the conception. This happens when the tiny embryo clings itself onto the wall of your uterus.

Once you are pregnant, there will be changes to your body. One significant change is the swelling of breasts. Women tend to get swollen breasts as early as 1 - 2 weeks into the pregnancy. The breasts are sore and tender and can be a discomforting experience for women. Besides breasts tenderness, women could also experience the darkening of the areolas. The nipples tend to grow darker when you are pregnant.

One thing that sends shivers down the spine of soon-to-be mothers is the morning sickness or nausea. Nausea is experienced by many pregnant women anytime between weeks 2 - 8 after conception. And even though it's called morning sickness, you can get it at anytime of the day. You might not have to throw up, but the queasy feeling is still there. The good news, it will not last forever. Some women are very fortunate in the sense that they never have to go through morning sickness. However there are some unlucky women who go through morning sickness right through their pregnancy.

When you're pregnant, you could experience extreme tiredness or fatigue. This can keep you in bed, as you're often sleepy or just don't want to get out of bed. This is normal for an expecting woman.

And if that's not hard enough, another symptom of pregnancy is the frequent urination. You may feel like you just want to sit near the bathroom all day, or that your bladder just can't hold it in any longer. Pregnant women have to put up with this and make extra trips to the bathroom every day.

Expecting women also experience aches - backaches and headaches. Early in the pregnancy, you may experience lower backaches. Backaches are also common throughout the entire time you are pregnant. Your body has to cope with a growing belly and this can strain your back, thus you may experience a dull backache all this time. As your body changes, so do your hormones. As a result of this, you may find yourself experiencing headaches early in your pregnancy.

And of course, who can forget the food cravings of the pregnant woman. Of course it might not be a longing to eat odd combinations of food like sardines and chips, but many pregnant women feel a craving for some types of food. This craving could also last for the entire pregnancy.

The above are the most common symptoms that a woman may go through in the early stages (and some till the end) of pregnancy. Should you experience these symptoms, get a pregnancy test kit or meet with your doctor. Do remember that the symptoms might vary, as everyone is unique and that each woman is different.

8 Early Pregnancy Symptoms - How To Find Out If You Are Pregnant

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Common Problems During the Third Trimester of Your Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time when a woman glows with the anticipation of her new joy,a new life she is bringing into this world, this is a time of wonder, a time of amazement, a time that can feel like an eternity when common complaints of pregnancy can make you feel less than glowing!

Yes indeed pregnancy is wonderful but back aches, breathlessness, rib pain and high blood pressure can all leave you worn out and overwhelmed. Fortunately there are natural solutions for common complaints that really do work.

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In the third trimester most women begin feeling just as bad if not worse than they felt in the first trimester of pregnancy. There may well have been fewer problems in the second trimester from what was felt in the first but in the third trimester you may well come back to realise just how very, very pregnant you are.

Back aches and rib pain is experience in nearly every pregnancy and can range from fairly mild to extreme.

The pain of a back ache is usually in the lower back and goes down the legs; this can be aggravated by standing for long periods of time. Twisting or turning as well as poor positioning while sleeping also causes and contributes to back pain.

Hormones are playing a part in this situation and will allow your joints and ligaments to loosen to assist your body and prepare it for birth. Massages for the back and strengthening exercises can help as well as proper alignment from a qualified chiropractor. Wearing flat supportive shoes and sleeping on a firm mattress can help too.

The rib pain that is often felt is usually caused by the uterus pressing into the abdomen and in turn into your ribs. Tiny baby feet will find their way under the rib cage as well as baby stretches in the head down position preparing for birth. There is little that can be done for this complaint other than wearing comfortable loose clothes and stretching the abdomen a bit with an exercise ball or by leaning into a wall as you face it.

Along with the rib pain many women experience breathlessness, like there is just not enough room for baby and lungs too, this is kind of often the case. Often breathlessness and rib pain will subside a little after week 36 when the baby drops into the birthing position. Propping up with pillows while lying down or even sitting can help move the baby off of the diaphragm. Experimenting with positions to find what is most comfortable and effective is about the only solution.

High blood pressure can be common and must be addressed in pregnancy. High blood pressure in pregnancy needs to be carefully monitored by a health care provider to avoid serious complications such as eclampsia and even death. Some ways to prevent high blood pressure before it begins is a healthy diet, avoiding caffeine, spicy foods and nicotine and exercising regularly. Mild to moderate high blood pressure can often be controlled by deep relaxation, meditation, eating raw garlic, parsley and onion as well as cucumber. Always follow the recommendations of the health care provider and check with him or her before any herbal or other supplements.

Just as there are many different complaints in the third trimester there are many different solutions and one of the best ways to obtain information is in mass numbers of experience. Reading books, web sites and message boards often can provide the information that not only matches the symptom but the personality as well. Searching out the camaraderie of others who are going through it too gives a sense of community that can ease those blues.

Always remember to check with a health care provider before following herbal or any advice that creates a feeling of doubt...better to be safe.

Common Problems During the Third Trimester of Your Pregnancy

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Cramps During Early Pregnancy - Tips To Help Reduce The Pain

Cramps during early pregnancy are something that happens to many women. Your body is changing and getting ready for your baby to grow.

Many women will experience mild cramps during the first few weeks of pregnancy. In fact, a lot of women think that they are getting ready to start their periods because they feel cramping. This article will teach how why you cramp in early pregnancy and when to call your doctor.

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Your uterus consists mainly of muscle and other surrounding tissues that enable it to expand during pregnancy and to contract when it's time for childbirth. These actions are triggered by hormones.

Some women may feel light cramping when the fertilized egg implants itself into the uterine wall. This can take place as early as six to eight days after fertilization. You may experience some light bleeding or "spotting" when the egg implants itself.
Another reason for cramping in early pregnancy is that hormones have triggered your uterus to expand to get ready for the growing baby. These cramps may be uncomfortable and feel a lot like period cramps. This is perfectly normal as long as they don't become severe and are accompanied by heavy bleeding. Cramps are most likely to occur after sexual activity or when your bladder is full.
The round ligaments support your uterus. As your uterus grows the round ligaments must expand to support it. This may cause a feeling of cramping or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. It should go away with rest. However, if the cramping becomes severe and is accompanied by heavy bleeding, fever, or any other unusual symptoms, contacts your doctor right away.There are ways to treat cramps during early pregnancy. A good way to relieve cramping is by applying heat. A heating pad to the lower abdomen works wonder for cramps but be careful to not get it too hot. You may take acetaminophen for pain relief if needed. Sometimes this will help take the edge off of the cramps. But ibuprofen or other NSAIDS should not be taken during pregnancy. Never take any drugs unless it is allowed by your doctor.

Take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest and eating right. The changing hormones in your body can slow down digestion and make you constipated, which can cause abdominal pain. If you feel that you may be constipated, increase your fiber and water intake.

Finally, another way to help relieve cramps in pregnancy is to abstain from sex. Sex does not hurt you or the baby but may increase the cramping and cause some spotting. The combination of cramping and spotting can make you think that you are having a miscarriage.

Cramps during early pregnancy are quite common. Cramps should be mild and never unbearable. However, if they become severe or are more prevalent on one side and are accompanied by any other unusual symptoms, let your doctor know right away.

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Cramps During Early Pregnancy - Tips To Help Reduce The Pain

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5 Early Signs of Pregnancy

Extremely early signs of pregnancy- are there any? Yes no doubt there are the signs which very early indicate that one is pregnant. The fertilized egg implants itself after about seven days of conception. The moment implantation happens, the early pregnancy signs begin to appear. The hormone level start to change and the body start reacting to these new hormonal levels.

The initial anxieties of pregnancy are completely over shadowed by the overwhelming and unpleasant symptoms known as morning sickness.

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The term 'morning' can be misleading as the symptoms often continue throughout the day. Morning sickness can, of course, start before you know you are pregnant, almost as soon as conception has occurred. It may be what alerts you to the fact that you have conceived.

These early pregnancy symptoms can be quite distressing especially if you are still reeling from the discovery that you are pregnant. Where there are mixed feelings about the pregnancy and thoughts of possible termination, this can be intensely distressing as the sickness brings a constant reminder of the reality of the pregnancy.

The onset of morning sickness can be very sudden. It is not unusual to go to bed wondering why you don't feel any different yet and to wake up feeling like you've been hit by a bus. All manner of symptoms, physical and emotional, can occur in early pregnancy and are explained by the umbrella term 'morning sickness'. The list below features a range of experiences women report:

Tiredness

Tiredness/exhaustion: the tiredness of early pregnancy can be worse than the sleepless nights after the baby is born. Women may find themselves wanting to sleep much longer or more often than usual and yet sleeping may have little impact on the feelings of tiredness and lethargy. It's not unusual to spend a whole day in bed and still feel tired! This can be very disabling and the early weeks of pregnancy can seem unending. You may begin to worry: how will I cope with a baby if I can't cope with feeling tired now? Fortunately this malaise does lift as the pregnancy progresses.

Nausea

Nausea and vomiting: along with tiredness, the persistent sickness that some women experience can be the most debilitating part of pregnancy. It can affect all aspects of your life, making carrying on with everyday life almost impossible. Despite its debilitating effects it is only in extreme circumstances that vomiting leads to medical intervention or hospitalization. There is in fact little that can be done to stop vomiting in pregnancy and most women simply try to endure it and adapt their lives as much as possible, hoping that the symptom will soon pass.

Food Cravings

Strange tastes, going 'off' foods or cravings. Many women report a metallic taste in their mouths. Classically women reject certain foods or develop preoccupations with particular foods. There may be good adaptive reasons why women 'crave' certain foods, perhaps their bodies are identifying their nutritional needs. However, the preoccupation often with one item makes this seem unlikely. In extreme cases non-food items such as coal have been the object of cravings, which would be hard to explain in physiological terms.

Headaches

Headaches, general aches and pains.

Mood Swings

Tearfulness, angry outbursts, anxiety symptoms. Nevertheless at the time these feelings can be confusing for both parents-to-be especially in a planned and wanted pregnancy.

Remember to take care of yourself even before becoming pregnant. Avoid drinking and quit smoking. Eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. Besides the above mentioned 5 early pregnancy signs try to learn as much as you can because only with proper knowledge you can assure a healthy pregnancy thus a healthy baby.

5 Early Signs of Pregnancy

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Perimenopause Pregnancy - What Are the Odds and Risks When You Are Over 35?

A woman's body undergoes so many changes in a woman's lifetime. Oftentimes, these changes and symptoms indicate the age of a woman or the transition stages that she goes through to wit: when a girl hits her teens-she experiences menstruation -indicating that her body is ready for childbearing. When a woman hits her late 30's onwards-she experiences the first signs of perimenopause which is defined as the process of change a woman feels leading to menopause. Perimenopause lasts no less than two years to over eight years. Then in her 50's a woman goes through her menopause-which is the end of her menstrual period. So, the various phases a woman's body goes through cannot belie her real age.

Perimenopause is the period when a woman's body experiences a decline in the production of ovum (egg supply) both in quantity and quality. This results in a change in hormones and premenstrual syndrome symptoms (PMS) that are more intense or of a different nature than previously felt. Perimenopause marks the beginning of the end-beginning of the decline of a woman's child bearing stage.

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What are the odds of a woman getting pregnant when she is over 35?

The woman's ovulation and menstruation becomes irregular when a woman's supply of ova or egg continues to decline. The decline in a woman's egg supply results in diminished fertility and is most noticeable after the mid 30s.

In their 40's, the menstrual cycle of a woman becomes increasingly irregular and may do so until menopause and this also compromises fertility. Often, health-conscious women in this age group do not seek prenatal care when they become pregnant; they often assume that the skipped period which is the first sign of pregnancy is instead the first sign of menopause.

What are the risks of a woman getting pregnant when she is over 35?

As an outcome of irregular production of hormones Perimenopausal pregnancy becomes high risk-officially, pregnancies at age 35 are high risks. However, if a woman is fit and healthy, she may enjoy the energy usually associated with a younger woman, if and when she becomes pregnant at age 35 and over. Doctors say that a woman's physical well-being during pregnancy depends more on who she is than how old she is. Nevertheless, a woman should be aware of chronic conditions that complicate pregnancy where it first becomes evident. These chronic conditions can be diabetes or high blood pressure. Also, even if one is in tip top shape, starting at the age of 35, there is an increasing risk for pregnancy-specific conditions including gestational diabetes.

Pregnancies at 35 and over, have the odds of giving birth to a baby with a chromosomal problem such as Down syndrome where a baby is born with an extra chromosome. Getting pregnant during perimenopause also gives the risk of miscarriage from amniocentesis, which is a diagnostic test given to look for chromosomal defects by examining the amniotic fluid. This test calls for the fluid being removed through a needle inserted in the mother's abdomen. Although the risk is still minimal, the risk is significantly higher when compared to a woman in her twenties. Other risk a woman may encounter at perimenopause pregnancy is Placenta Previa, where the placenta grows near the cervix and causes bleeding.

Perimenopausal pregnancy when over 35 and over 40, medically speaking, is the most difficult age for pregnancy. At this decade, a woman has used up the highest-quality ova, slowing down conception. The ova that are now left in the body are those that take the longest to respond to the body's cues for release, and which also don't function well during fertilization. This condition or state of the ova further raises the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage.

It is with interest to note however that while is now at this age that is hardest, to get pregnant, the likelihood to carry multiples - in itself another high-risk pregnancy -- even without medical intervention is not far-off. A possible reason could be that the shift in hormone levels during menopause stimulates the release of more than one egg at ovulation -- like a natural fertility drug.

Standard tests on pregnancies become risky when given to pregnant women over 35 since it entails the removal of tissue from the placenta risking a miscarriage albeit a low level.

Pregnancy after the age of 35 may worsen chronic conditions as well as early signs of aging, such as stiff, sore joints. Varicose veins may multiply and worsen. A slower metabolism may result in much weight gain, lethargy and sluggishness.

So, would you dare defy the odds and face the risks and get pregnant when you are over 35?
Later pregnancies have physical downsides as doctors are quick to point out but a list of other advantages balance the risks. For starters, greater financial stability, may enable one to focus more on motherhood. Having proven themselves professionally, women in their mid-thirties and over, may be more flexible and patient having faced more challenges in their lifetime.

Perimenopause Pregnancy - What Are the Odds and Risks When You Are Over 35?

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5 Early Symptoms of Pregnancy - What Happens Right Away?

Do you suspect that you are pregnant? For some females, the early symptoms of pregnancy are observed during the first couple of weeks after conception. If you are pregnant, the proof is in the pregnancy test. But even prior to missing a period, you may suspect or wish that you are pregnant. Here are some of the early pregnancy symptoms that you may experience:

1. Fatigue - This ranks high among the early symptoms of pregnancy. During the earliest stages of pregnancy, the hormone progesterone's level increases. In high sufficient amounts, progesterone makes a woman feel sleepy and at the same time, lowers blood pressure, lowers blood sugar levels and increases the production of blood - which team up to drain your energy.

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2. Nausea with or without vomiting - this is more commonly termed as morning sickness. This condition can occur at any time of the day or even at night. This is one of the most classic signs of pregnancy. For majority of females, the queasiness starts as early as 14 days after conception.

3. Tender and swollen breasts - a woman's breast may give one of the first signs of pregnancy. As early as 14 days after conception, hormonal changes may take place, making your breast tingly, tender or sore. Your breast may also feel heavier and fuller.

4. Slight cramping or bleeding - there are cases of the presence of a small amount of spotting or vaginal bleeding during the early stages of pregnancy. This phenomenon is called as the implantation bleeding which occurs when the fertilized ova attaches to the lining of the uterus which takes place about ten to 14 days after fertilization.

5. Headaches - increased blood circulation brought about by the changes in hormonal levels may trigger frequent mild headaches.

Unfortunately, these early symptoms of pregnancy are not unique to pregnancy alone. Some of these signs can indicate that you are getting sick or that your menstrual period is just about to start. Likewise, you can also be pregnant without having to experience any of these signs. The sooner your pregnancy is confirmed, the sooner that you can start off with an appropriate prenatal care.

Remember, some of the earliest signs of pregnancy may be subtle, not obvious. Whenever there is any question that you might be experiencing early signs of pregnancy, do a home pregnancy test.

Although each of these are considered typical early symptoms of pregnancy, they may happen earlier or later than the order in which they appear on the following list.

5 Early Symptoms of Pregnancy - What Happens Right Away?

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Common Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Symptoms of pregnancy can start before your first missed period. Here are some early pregnancy symptoms to consider if you are suspicious.

Within two weeks after conception some women notice changes in their breast; this may be the first sign of pregnancy. The sudden increase of hormones can make your breasts tender and sore. Some women describe their breast as feeling heavier and fuller.

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As the levels of progesterone rise, fatigue is often another symptom of early pregnancy. Some women have a difficult time getting anything done because all they want to do is sleep. This can be the result of excessive levels of progesterone. The side effect is low blood sugar, pressure and increased blood production. The combination of the side effects will simply zap your energy. Be careful, low blood sugar can also make feel like your going faint.

Another early pregnancy symptom reported by some women is a small amount of spotting. Implantation bleeding is the result of the fertilized egg attaching to the uterus. Typically this form of bleeding happens 10 to 14 days after fertilization. The good news is that it doesn't last long. It is not uncommon to experience abdominal cramps similar to what you experience during your regular cycle.

The classic symptom is of course morning sickness, which can strike at any time during the day. Not all but some women claim to feel queasy within two weeks of conception. The hormones are thought to be behind this bit of evil. High levels of estrogen will cause the stomach to empty more slowly, which can cause you to feel nauseated. The heighten sense of smell can intensify the nausea, so write down any various odors that seem to bring about an uneasy feeling.

Sudden cravings for foods you normally would say no too might be a sign alluding to an early pregnancy. Cravings are common especially in the first trimester when hormones are changing rapidly.

Again with the hormones, increased blood circulation in the early stages of pregnancy can trigger frequent but mild headaches. As the blood vessels dilate and your blood pressure drops feelings of lightheadedness is common.

Estrogens crazy cousin progesterone slows down the colon. The obvious result is constipation yet another early symptom of pregnancy.

Keep an eye on the people around you; if you notice strange looks it may be the result of your mood swings brought on again by the drastic changes in your hormones. It's not unusual to be emotional and weepy in the first trimester.

I'm sorry to say that these early pregnancy symptoms are a blessing and a curse. Keep in mind the fact that you are feeling sick is a good sign. On the other hand, you may not experience any of these symptoms, which is not a bad thing. Don't forget if you suspect your pregnant make an appointment with your doctor, we only want the best for you and your baby.

Common Early Pregnancy Symptoms

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Complications During Pregnancy

Any woman who has ever had a baby will tell you that her worst nightmare while she was expecting was pregnancy complications. Fortunately, for most women the nine months from conception to birth pass by fairly smoothly, but in some cases difficulties or issues will arise. But before you start panicking, remember that most of these problems are easily solved, while others may make this time a little more inconvenient or unpleasant, but there will still be a healthy baby at the end. And yes, there are those times when these complications can result in a still-birth or a miscarriage, but this does not have to be the inevitable outcome or a constant source of worry throughout.

Monitoring the Stages of Pregnancy

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One of the best ways to head off complications during pregnancy is to follow the old adage, "Prevention is better than cure" Register with a good prenatal clinic near your home, and go for regular checkups.

Many places have free or subsidised prenatal testing, provided by their public health service. Find out the rules and procedures where you live and where to get the best access to competent health professionals.

Once you have registered at the clinic or with the healthcare provider of your choice, you will take regular blood tests, urine tests, and do ultrasounds at various points. Your weight gain will also be monitored, as well as changes in the shape of the uterus as your baby develops. Additionally, you will be offered the choice of taking various prenatal genetic tests, depending on your age and other individual factors. At various points, the doctor will do a sonogram, listening to your baby's heartbeat.

By doing all of these tests, you are most likely to head off any potential trouble at the earliest stages. At the same time, you will feel reassured whenever the doctor tells you that everything is developing nicely and that you are having a healthy pregnancy. You will also have a reliable place to ask all of your pregnancy questions.

Below are some of the complications that you are being tested for and are seeking to avoid:
Anaemia - This is insufficient iron in the blood to deal with the growing number of red blood cells that appear in the body while you are expecting. If you are anaemic, you will feel weak and constantly exhausted. You may also lose far more blood during the birth and can become less resistant to infection. Gestational Diabetes - Some women find that they develop diabetes in pregnancy. If they have never had diabetes before, chances are that it will go away after the baby is born. Nonetheless, this is a condition that must be watched because it can make the baby grow too large, possibly necessitating a Caesarean section, or it can put the baby at higher risk of jaundice. Most clinics will test your glucose and sugar levels at various points to find out if you are developing gestational diabetes. The good news is that this condition can be controlled with the help and vigilance of your healthcare provider. Preeclampsia - Preeclampsia is an unusual condition due to which the mother develops high blood pressure, water retention, and protein in the urine. Very occasionally, preeclampsia leads to seizures and can even have fatal consequences for both mother and child. For this reason, you will be tested several times over the coming months for protein levels in your urine. It most usually develops towards the end, from about 20 weeks on, and is more common in the first pregnancy than in later ones.There are various types of preeclampsia, and in some cases the baby has to be induced, even if this means a preterm birth. However, treatment does not always have to be this radical, and if caught early enough preeclampsia can be treated through bed rest, changing the diet, avoiding stress, or having to go into hospital for a while. If you experience high blood pressure, dizziness, sudden swelling in the wrists or ankles, headaches, and disturbances in your vision, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare professional.

Constantly monitoring your blood pressure and protein testing will go a long way to helping you catch this condition before it spirals out of hand. Do not stress about it. Just do the relevant tests and don't worry about it unless there is a reason to do so.

Unforeseen Problems - Pregnancy Bleeding

Apart from the complications that you are screened for, sometimes certain things may arise unexpectedly. For example, as you are well aware, one of the first pregnancy symptoms is missing a period. In theory, you will not see any blood from then on until you actually give birth. So what do you do if you find that you are bleeding during pregnancy? What does this mean?

In very early pregnancy, you might have a tiny bit of spotting due to a partially repressed period. At that stage, your hormones might not have caught up with your new state and you will still have a very scanty period. This, however, is quite rare. Sometimes, bleeding is caused by a cervical erosion, which when the cervix is inflamed and sore. This can be for a variety of reasons, from venereal disease to a reaction to the previous use of an IUD.

On the other hand, bleeding can also be the first sign of a miscarriage. Is the blood heavy? Is it red, indicating that it is fresh, or brown, showing that it is old and possibly from another source? Do you feel cramps or pain with it? When and how did it start?

Sometimes, bleeding can be a sign of placenta previa, when the placenta moves to cover all or part of the cervix. Depending on the extent and type of previa, it can also be diagnosed before any bleeding occurs. In this case, the woman is often put on bed rest and told to refrain from sexual intercourse until the situation resolves itself. If there is bleeding, the situation is more complex and sometimes, depending on various factors, the baby is delivered with an emergency Caesarean section, or the woman may have to remain on bed rest until the end of the pregnancy. In this situation, constant blood transfusions and certain injections may be given until the mother can deliver. Placenta previa is even more serious if it occurs at term, as it can cause various complications for the baby.

In light of everything written above, it is important to remember that you should never ignore pregnancy bleeding and just assume that everything will be all right. If there is even just a little bit of blood, you should contact your healthcare provider as soon as you can. And if the clinic is closed, or you are experiencing heavy bleeding and cramps, don't wait around. Get to the nearest emergency room and find out exactly what is going on. Only a medical professional is really qualified to tell you what is going on and what can be done.

Expecting the Unexpected - Twin Pregnancy Complications

Carrying twins does not exactly fall into the same category as bleeding or preeclampsia. There is actually nothing more delightful than the birth of an extra, healthy baby. However, a twin pregnancy definitely has more risks associated with it than a regular singleton birth. First of all, you will feel far more uncomfortable and heavy while you are expecting. All the hormones are more in evidence, so you may experience stronger pregnancy signs, as well as more intense varicose veins and back pain, both of which can feel a lot worse especially towards the end because you will also be carrying extra weight. Obviously, you will feel more tired for the same reason and will need more rest.

But discomfort is not the only problem here. Multiples are higher risk pregnancies. For example, the risk of miscarriage is higher. There is even the phenomenon of "vanishing twin syndrome," when one twin is lost and reabsorbed into the mother's body without any outward signs of loss beyond an empty sac or a disappearing foetus on an ultrasound image.

Due to overcrowding in the womb, you are also far more at risk of preterm labour. The babies effectively almost push each other out. Around 70% of twins are delivered before the 38th week, though usually after the 28th week.

Another syndrome to watch out for is preeclampsia (see above), which has a higher incidence among women carrying twins or multiples. For this reason, such women are monitored more closely and are constantly tested for high blood pressure and protein levels in the urine.

If you are expecting twins, don't allow these potential complications to worry you. All you need to do is do the necessary tests, pay close attention to your diet and general health and make sure that you never get dehydrated. It is also vitally important that you rest enough and do not allow yourself to get too stressed. Obviously, if you see or feel anything that is worrying you or seems unusual, you must not wait around. Consult with your healthcare professional immediately.

Preterm Labour - What is It and What Do You Do?

One of the complications in pregnancy that many women dread is preterm labour, which refers to going into labour before the 38th week. There are various reasons why a woman may go into labour too early. For example, she may have an incompetent cervix, which means that her cervix will not support the baby till the very end of the pregnancy. This kind of complication can be foreseen and may mean that the mother has to go on bed rest either at home or in hospital until it is safe enough for her to deliver the baby, or her cervix may be given a stitch that is only removed during labour.

Other reasons for preterm labour are various types of infections, placenta problems, too much physical work, various structural problems with the uterus and/or cervix, and more. Some of these reasons are unforeseen, so you should be alert for any possible signs of early labour.

If you feel certain symptoms, like steady contractions before they are supposed to happen, vaginal bleeding, severe cramping in the pelvic area that is different from anything you have felt until now, intense pelvic pressure, severe pain when you urinate, or a sudden, unexpected gush of clear water, get medical assistance right away.

A Word of Reassurance

While it is important to know about various complications with pregnancy, it is also vital to be relaxed while you are expecting. For some reason, people often like to share their horror stories with you almost as soon as they find out that you have conceived. But while it may be fun to spread the word about the "miracle birth" and "how I nearly died," this can be terrible source of worry for an expectant mother.

The most important thing to do is make sure that you are as healthy as possible before conception and during the months afterwards. Always do the necessary testing and never miss checkups, as they are a vital part of monitoring a healthy pregnancy and your preparation for birth. The rest is not in your hands. Therefore, you should always be alert, but not obsessed. Think how many women around the world conceive and deliver babies without any pregnancy complications at all.

Complications During Pregnancy

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Early Pregnancy Symptom - Know the Indicators

Any woman trying to get pregnant just cannot bear to wait patiently to find out if she has achieved her objective. She wants to find out sooner than later if she is pregnant. Your body is an excellent indicator of early pregnancy symptoms. It is very important to monitor your body very carefully and be alert to even the minutest of the changes within. Though no two pregnancies are the same, some women may experience early pregnancy symptoms within just a few days of conception, while others may have no body changes till about a few weeks of conception.

Early sign of pregnancy

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Monitor your body carefully to recognize early pregnancy symptoms. Advancing pregnancy week by week, gives rise to many changes in the body, both internally as well as externally. Some changes are:

Nausea: Morning sickness or frequent vomiting occurs very early in the pregnancy. Many women mistake it for food poisoning or stomach disorder.

Heartburn: Indigestion, acidity and heartburn are also early pregnancy symptoms and stay till late stages of pregnancy.

Enhanced sense of smell and taste: Lots of women become very sensitive to the taste and smell of common food items. Those items trigger nausea.

Dizziness and fainting: Enhanced smells, taste and nausea make many women avoid food and skip meals. This results in low blood sugar level and dizzy spells or fainting.

Constipation: Lack of proper diet and slow metabolism during pregnancy results in frequent constipation.

Frequent urination: This happens as early as first week of pregnancy due to the pressure of growing uterus on the urinary bladder.

Tiredness: Exhaustion and tiredness are the common symptoms of pregnancy in first trimester.

Enlarged nipples and tender breasts: As the body prepares itself for breastfeeding, the nipples enlarge and breasts become swollen, tender and sore to touch during early pregnancy.

Spotting: Some women may experience some light bleeding or spotting 8-10 days after ovulation, coinciding with the date of next due period.

Missed period: This is the clinical, classic early pregnancy symptom. Some women may experience cramping and low back pain as just before the arrival of periods feeling without any signs of bleeding.

Irritability: Nausea, tiredness, cramps, backache, enhanced smells and fluctuating hormones make many pregnant women extremely irritable.

Change in complexion: The raging hormones cause skin spotting, acne or other complexion changes in the first trimester of the pregnancy.

Weight loss: Many women lose weight during early pregnancy due to food fetishes. One must eat healthy foods at frequent intervals to maintain the nutrient level of the body.

Watch out for these early pregnancy symptoms and try to remain active and healthy for these nine months.

Early Pregnancy Symptom - Know the Indicators

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How to Identify Pregnancy Symptoms

Pregnancy is associated with several symptoms and when you know them well, it is easier to deal with the situation. Mothers-to-be should educate themselves about the various stages of pregnancy and the signs and symptoms.

Typically, pregnancy is divided into three stages, the first, second, and third trimester. Depending on the trimesters, your pregnancy symptoms will change. It helps to know what to expect when you are expecting.

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Pregnancy Stages And Symptoms

As the name suggests, trimester means three months. Pregnancy symptoms changes every three months. In this article, we shall discuss about the different stages and its symptoms.

First trimester - In this stage there are signs of frequent urination, sore breasts, morning or evening sickness, fatigue, and tiredness. Some women may also experience spotting and elevated body temperature in the morning.

A change in taste and smell is also indicated during this phase. Some women experience a metallic taste in their mouth, while others dislike stuff that they loved earlier. Change in taste and eating habits is one of the common sign of pregnancy symptoms.

Some women experience mood swings and often feel gloomy. At such times, it is important for the spouse to deal with the situation sensitively. These changes or symptoms occur due to the hormonal changes. These symptoms subside when the body adapts to the hormonal upheavals.

Second trimester - During this stage, there are physiological changes in the body. The growing baby causes an increase in the size of womb. This condition exerts pressure on the intestinal tract and may lead to constipation. This condition worsens during the third trimester when the womb grows even bigger.

The second trimester causes other pregnancy symptoms like swelling in the feet and ankles due to weight gain. It is important to exercise during this stage as light exercise helps a great deal in controlling weight and staying fit.

Third trimester - This stage may cause severe backache to the would-be-momma due to the growing belly. Your back is usually arched due to the baby weight and that may cause lower back pain. The intestinal tract is further affected due to the pressure exerted by the womb and leads to constipation.

Chronic constipation may then lead to heartburn due to indigestion. Some women also suffer from high sugar levels, i.e. diabetes and may require a strict diet control to combat the condition. However, this pregnancy symptom is temporary and will cure itself after child birth.

How to Identify Pregnancy Symptoms

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How To Stay Fit In Each Pregnancy Trimester

Your topmost priority should be to keep yourself healthy during each pregnancy trimester. This is because a healthy mother delivers a healthy baby. Here are certain tips to keep you in the pink of health during your pregnancy and let your enjoy each day of creating a new life!

The First Three Months

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At the first trimester of pregnancy, you are amidst various pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness, fatigue, dizziness, constipation, sore breasts, frequent urination, hyper sensitivity, and much more. Here's what you should do in first trimester of pregnancy:

Take frequent, small meals throughout the day to combat the feeling of nausea. Indulge in a light exercise regime daily after consulting your doctor. Walking is the best physical activity at this time. It tones your muscles and joints, enhances blood oxygen circulation, and keeps you cheerful. You can also swim and cycle. However, stay away from forceful and dangerous sports. Drink lots of water. Rest is a must at this stage. Do not deprive yourself of the 8-hour beauty sleep. Simply smile and welcome the new phase of life!
The Mid Three Months

The second trimester of pregnancy is a comparatively easier stage. Morning sickness and fatigue will alleviate. At this stage, there is rapid development of your baby. Your umbilical cord will increase in thickness to supply adequate oxygen and nutrition to the growing baby. Here's what you should do in second trimester of pregnancy:

You may experience a shift in your body's center of gravity. Therefore, there are chances of losing balance. So, avoid activities that require balancing. Simple yoga is best. Indulge in light walking and swimming. Take care of your personal hygiene. Continue eating a nutritious diet. Read books and relax. This is a pleasant phase with not many upheavals. Prepare for the last stage of pregnancy, which is a tough one.
The Last Three Months

The third trimester of pregnancy is full of changes in your body. The baby has completed its development and is ready to come out. You will experience back pain, headaches, constipation, indigestion, gas, fatigue, and other such problems. Due to the increase in the size of baby, it exerts force on your nerves and blood vessels, leading to discomfort. Here's what you should do in the third pregnancy trimester:

Practice deep breathing to ensure a good supply of oxygen to your baby. It also helps to endure labor pains better. Sufficient rest is a must. Indulge in light exercises as recommended by your doctor. Your exercise should focus on strengthening your pelvic muscles. It will help in delivering smoothly. Continue taking a well balanced diet. In fact, you are going to get strong food cravings during this time. Do not lift heavy objects. Avoid standing on your feet for prolonged periods of time. Do not lie on your back, (you are going to find it difficult to do so, anyway) as it exerts pressure on your blood vessels and nerves.

Follow the tips and stay fit in each pregnancy trimester.

How To Stay Fit In Each Pregnancy Trimester

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The Effects of Pregnancy on the Eyes

Your Eyes and Pregnancy

What you need to know Pregnancy is a truly wondrous experience. Every woman is aware that there are changes to her body that are entirely natural and obvious but many do not know or consider the effects of pregnancy upon the eyes.

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It is important that you know of the changes that take place with your vision and eye health but do not be alarmed.

The vast majority of reasonably healthy women suffer no lasting eye health or vision problems during pregnancy and very many do not notice any changes whatsoever.

Natural bodily changes take place during pregnancy due to hormonal effects upon many organs, including the eyes.

These normal eye changes are brought about by a progressive decrease in the pressure of the fluid within the eye and associated fluid retention in the ocular tissues

Do Not Be Alarmed.

1. The sensitivity of the cornea progressively decreases throughout pregnancy, particularly during the last three months. This results in a risk to contact lens wearers who may damage the surface of the cornea more than usual. This can lead to red, sore eyes and an intolerance of contact lenses.

It is unlikely to cause any problems if there is no visual impairment or only corrective glasses are worn.

2. Ocular fluid retention can affect refraction and results in a temporary change in vision. Spectacle or contact lens wearers can find their existing prescription is either too weak or too strong. It is best to avoid having an eye test until six weeks or more after giving birth as it more than probable that vision will return to normal.

3. The pressure of the fluid in the eye, known as intra-ocular pressure, decreases. It is unlikely that this will be noticeable unless Glaucoma was diagnosed and being treated prior to pregnancy. Glaucoma is caused by raised intra-ocular pressure and is a serious condition affecting the ocular nerve. The resulting decrease in intra-ocular pressure during pregnancy is an advantageous side effect enjoyed by sufferers.

4. Some pregnant women suffer from dry eyes, which are normally only temporary and will disappear after giving birth. Ask your optrometrist for eye drops. He will know which drops you should use that will not have any detrimental effects on you or your baby. Otherwise the traditional and well known home beauty treatments will solve the problem. Rest with cotton wool soaked in witch hazel or simply cucumber slices laid on your eyes can only be beneficial. Try an eye mask straight out of the fridge.

5. Puffy or swollen areas around the eyelids are a frequent side effect during pregnancy. Drinking plenty of water and keeping to a healthy diet will actually limit water retention and relieve any discomfort.

6. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to migraine headaches and sensitivity to bright lights.

Be sure to check with your medical advisors before taking any medication to relieve the symptoms.

There are pre-existing health problems that can affect the sight which should be considered before deciding to become pregnant and should be fully discussed with your physician and ophthalmologist.

It is recommended that Diabetics see their ophthalmologist at least once a year to be aware of diabetic eye disease.

This eye disease has a tendency to worsen during pregnancy so it is very important to increase the frequency of visits starting immediately you become aware of being pregnant.

Sufferers of diabetic eye disease should consult with their ophthalmologists before planning a pregnancy.

Blood can clot more quickly when pregnant so it is important to remain sensibly active and mobile throughout the term to keep the blood circulation from slowing. If not thrombosis of the cerebral blood vessels may develop which may lead to field of vision problems and other neurological defects.

Pre-eclampsia, which is caused by high blood pressure developing during pregnancy can have a severe effect upon the eyes. Bleeding in the retina may lead to permanent vision impairment and should be treated without delay.

In rare cases, a form of skin cancer called Malignant Melanoma can develop during pregnancy.

Due to the hormonal changes that take place, the progress of this cancer becomes quicker and first indications can appear in the eye.

Another result of the changes to the body is the occasional development of diminishing vision accompanied by blank areas in the field of vision and headaches.

This is caused by pressure on the optic nerves as a result of some Pituitary Gland tumors suddenly enlarging.

WARNING

If you are using any type of medication whatsoever including most importantly eye drops for Glaucoma check with your physician and your opthalmologist without delay.

Certain treatments for eye problems can have a catastrophic effect on an unborn baby.

There are alternative medications that can be prescribed that have no harmful side effects on mothers and their unborn babies.

Copyright 2006 Jaks Lloyd

The Effects of Pregnancy on the Eyes

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Dealing With Acid Reflux In Pregnancy

Anyone that has gone through pregnancy will be able to testify that the pain of giving birth is far from the only pain that comes with it. Throughout the nine months of pregnancy there is increased hormone production and this can result in things such as morning sickness and a stronger sensitivity to smells. Late on in pregnancy, however, can be one of the most unpleasant stages as acid reflux in pregnancy can result. This is due to the pressure of the baby becoming large as we will see.

So, why exactly does acid reflux in pregnancy occur? As the baby becomes larger and larger the uterus will press harder against the diaphragm and this can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to begin to malfunction. The LES is designed to allow food to flow in one direction only. However, a malfunctioning LES means that stomach contents such as acidic gastric juices may be able to backwash from the stomach and get through to the esophagus and burn its tender tissues.

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As mentioned, pregnant women will experience an increase in hormone production in their body, specifically estrogen and progesterone. This happens to cause the muscles of the uterus to relax and better be able to accommodate the ever growing baby. However, the uterus is not the only thing that becomes relaxes as the muscles of the LES may also loosen. This can cause constipation and of course, increased acid reflux for the woman.

If you already suffer from acid reflux then undergoing pregnancy may progress your condition from manageable to a very sever case. In the worst instance, you may require to go to hospital to have it treated.

Throughout pregnancy, the future mother and their doctor will both want to keep the amount of medication taken to a minimum. For this reason, adopting natural remedial action is usually the best advice. This means keeping an eye on your diet even more so than you normally would during pregnancy. The key is to avoid the foods that trigger acid reflux of which I am sure many are among your favorite foods. The main culprits to avoid are fatty animal products, citric foods, alcohol, soft drinks, garlic, chocolate, mint and high-fat dairy products. Smoking at any stage in one's life is highly unadvisable and even more so during pregnancy, least of all because it also contributes to the acid reflux problem.

So, we know which foods to try to eat in moderation or eliminate altogether from your diet. But, is there anything that you can eat when you feel acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn to try and ease the pain? One such natural remedy is ginger, which if chopped into small pieces and chewed slowly can reduce the pain of acid reflux in pregnancy. There are other things you can try, completely unrelated to diet. One of these is to wear as loose fitting clothes as possible any further undue pressure on your stomach only increases the problem. Also sleeping with your head in a more elevated position than normal can help to give you a better night's sleep and avoid overnight acid reflux.

And a good night of sleep may be a rare thing for you once your pregnancy is over so I am sure you will feel the benefit of taking these steps to reduce your acid reflux.

Dealing With Acid Reflux In Pregnancy

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