Timing Intercourse: Ovulation Prediction and Fertility ChartingThe purpose of fertility charting is to learn when you ovulate, your most fertile time, so you can time intercourse and increase your chances of pregnancy. Much of this website is dedicated to the nuances of fertility charting, which includes techniques like taking your basal temperature, monitoring cervical fluids, observing cervix position, ovulation testing, and keeping tracking of the physical symptoms of ovulation. To learn more about these fertility-increasing techniques,.
The point of all of this is to know when the "egg drops" so you can have the sperm ready and waiting. If you can predict that you are going to ovulate on a certain day, then you will know when to start making love. This will radically increase your odds of conceiving and you will get pregnant faster for sure.
Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle refers to the cyclical development and then shedding of the endometrium, the lining of the uterus. Understanding your menstrual cycle is important if you want to chart your fertility patterns, predict ovulation, and increase your chances of becoming pregnant.
A woman's fertile period during her menstrual cycle, on average, lasts about seven days: seven days before ovulation (the release of the egg), the day of ovulation, and the day after ovulation. After this, chances of conception decrease quickly, as the egg has a short life-span of about 24 hours.
Given this somewhat narrow window of opportunity for conception, understanding the menstrual cycle can help increase a woman's chances of becoming pregnant. The key is to predict ovulation with as much precision as possible. Of course, both the length and regularity of menstrual cycles vary greatly among women - so successful ovulation prediction depends both on understanding the general dynamics of the menstrual cycle, as well as a woman's own unique cycles and patterns.
The Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Prediction
The menstrual cycle is divided into two parts: pre-ovulation and post-ovulation. The ovarian cycle refers to the cyclical development and expelling of the egg from the ovary. Though the length and regularity of a menstrual cycle may differ, the average duration of a complete menstrual cycle is 28 days (though healthy cycles can run from 21-36 days). Below you will find an overview of a typical menstrual cycle with an image map based on a 28 day cycle length.
Pre-Ovulation
"Day 1" of the menstrual cycle is the day bleeding begins. Bleeding - or "menstrual flow" - last about three to five days. By the seventh day of the cycle, eggs in the ovaries begin to ripen due to various hormonal changes. Between the seventh and the eleventh days, the lining of the uterus begins to thicken and it is possible to observe changes in the presence and consistency of cervical fluids. After the eleventh day, luteinizing hormone cause the egg that is most ripe to be released from the ovary and begin its travel down the fallopian tubes to the uterus. For women with a 28-day cycle, ovulation (the release of the egg) should take place on about the 14th Day - or the very middle - of the menstrual cycle. Post-Ovulation
The period after ovulation is called the luteal phase, and it is marked by a slight, but clearly measurable, increase in body temperature. Following ovulation, the egg travels the fallopian tube toward the uterus. If the egg is fertilized by a sperm (conception), then " implantation" should take place in the uterus (if implantation takes place outside the womb, this is an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy can occur in several places - but the most common is in the fallopian tube). Pregnancy begins if "implantation" occurs. If the egg is not fertilized, it will "expire" in about 24 hours. Without fertilization, levels of certain hormones will decrease , causing the lining of the uterus to break down and shed - otherwise known as menstruation, or a woman's "period". The first day of bleeding is "Day 1" of the next menstrual cycle.
The first part of the cycle, from menstruation to ovulation, may vary from 14 to 20 days in length. The length of the pre-ovulation phase is often different from one woman to another - but it can also differ from month to month for an individual. It is during first part of the cycle that fertilization can occur. Of course, regular menstrual patterns can be altered by illness, insomnia, stress, physical exertion, and physical and emotional changes.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Be Aware of Possible Infertility Issues
Be Aware of Possible Infertility Issues Infertility touches about one in five couples. That means about about 15% of couples will have some difficulty in getting pregnant. However, most of these issues are not insurmountable, and can be corrected by diet and health changes, by using a fertility supplement, or by taking a prescription fertility drug. Male fertility issues (issues relating to sperm count or motility) can also play into infertility problems. Being aware of potential infertility symptoms is important, and these include absent cycles, very long or very short menstrual cycles, failure to show signs of ovulation. etc. Learn more about infertility problems.
Stay Upbeat, Decrease Stress, Even AcupunctureEasy for me to say, right! We certainly understand that trying-to-conceive is not the most stress-free time of life, particularly if you have been trying for several cycles or longer. Who wants to spend the rest of their lives waking up each morning to the giddy beep of a basal thermometer? Or peeing on ovulation tests and making a mess all over the place? Still, decreasing sources of stress and anxiety is important, and will help you conceive sooner. Also, make sure you are taking positive steps to keep things in perspective:
if you are feeling down or anxious, try exercising, taking calming walks, meditation, distracting hobbies etc. You may also wish to consider yoga or acupuncture, and there is plenty of literature available linking increased fertility (cycle balance) to fertility-acupuncture. If you are taking medications for depression or anxiety, do talk with your doctor before getting pregnant to make sure those meds are safe!
Sexual Positions for PregnancyThough the jury is still out on if, or to what degree, sexual position impacts your odds of conceiving, many doctors and fertility experts suggest that the missionary position is the ideal "pregnancy position". Man-on-top (or missionary position) ensures deepest penetration so the sperm are nearest the cervix during ejaculation. Woman-on-top or standing positions may have gravity pulling sperm the wrong way. Another alternative is to lay down with your hips elevated following intercourse so gravity works the right direction, toward the cervix and uterus. Gender Selection: There are also theories that suggest that differing sexual positions might not only help you get pregnant, but also increase your odds of having a boy or a girl. Learn more about sexual position and gender selection.
Throw out the Old Habits, Bring in the NewIf you want to increase the odds of conceiving, having intercourse regularly is the key. This may seem obvious, but some couples do not have the time or energy for frequent love-making in today's face-paced world. A good habit is to start making time for that special rendezvous - and try to keep things romantic! Change your schedule. Be spontaneous.
Other habits from the old days that might need to go out with the condoms? Lubes. Using a lubricant can act as barrier to sperm and create a difficult, sperm-hostile environment in the vagina. The only lubricant that does not function as a barrier to sperm is Pre-Seed, a product specially designed by reproductive specialists. Pre-Seed is a sperm-friendly lubricant that may actually assist in conception by providing a moisturizing gel that emulates fertile cervical fluids.
Stay Upbeat, Decrease Stress, Even AcupunctureEasy for me to say, right! We certainly understand that trying-to-conceive is not the most stress-free time of life, particularly if you have been trying for several cycles or longer. Who wants to spend the rest of their lives waking up each morning to the giddy beep of a basal thermometer? Or peeing on ovulation tests and making a mess all over the place? Still, decreasing sources of stress and anxiety is important, and will help you conceive sooner. Also, make sure you are taking positive steps to keep things in perspective:
if you are feeling down or anxious, try exercising, taking calming walks, meditation, distracting hobbies etc. You may also wish to consider yoga or acupuncture, and there is plenty of literature available linking increased fertility (cycle balance) to fertility-acupuncture. If you are taking medications for depression or anxiety, do talk with your doctor before getting pregnant to make sure those meds are safe!
Sexual Positions for PregnancyThough the jury is still out on if, or to what degree, sexual position impacts your odds of conceiving, many doctors and fertility experts suggest that the missionary position is the ideal "pregnancy position". Man-on-top (or missionary position) ensures deepest penetration so the sperm are nearest the cervix during ejaculation. Woman-on-top or standing positions may have gravity pulling sperm the wrong way. Another alternative is to lay down with your hips elevated following intercourse so gravity works the right direction, toward the cervix and uterus. Gender Selection: There are also theories that suggest that differing sexual positions might not only help you get pregnant, but also increase your odds of having a boy or a girl. Learn more about sexual position and gender selection.
Throw out the Old Habits, Bring in the NewIf you want to increase the odds of conceiving, having intercourse regularly is the key. This may seem obvious, but some couples do not have the time or energy for frequent love-making in today's face-paced world. A good habit is to start making time for that special rendezvous - and try to keep things romantic! Change your schedule. Be spontaneous.
Other habits from the old days that might need to go out with the condoms? Lubes. Using a lubricant can act as barrier to sperm and create a difficult, sperm-hostile environment in the vagina. The only lubricant that does not function as a barrier to sperm is Pre-Seed, a product specially designed by reproductive specialists. Pre-Seed is a sperm-friendly lubricant that may actually assist in conception by providing a moisturizing gel that emulates fertile cervical fluids.
Birth Control Medications
Clearly, trying to get pregnant while on birth control will certainly impair your chances. However, many women think that once they stop the pill, they will get pregnant instantly, or at least their cycles are expected to return to normal right away. The fact is, while you may indeed become pregnant your first cycle off the birth control pill or patch, the odds are it will take some time for your hormones to get back to normal - or for your cycle to become "clockwork" again. Once your cycle is balanced and normalized, it becomes much easier to predict ovulation and know when you are most fertile.
Pregnancy No-No's: Smoking, Drinking, and CaffeineSmoking is not only bad for your health, it may be bad your baby's health as well. Duh. Drugs, smoking, and alcohol can result in premature babies, unhealthy birth-weights, miscarriages. Needless to say, stop taking drugs or smoking even before you start trying to get pregnant. And avoid second-hand smoke as well. Coffee? Caffeine,
if possible, should also be largely avoided, though very minute amounts of caffeine (as found certain types of green tea) may actually increases the odds of conceiving. In general, coffee is not advised during pregnancy. Alcohol? Of course, these beverages should be avoided, as alcohol is indeed linked with increased chances of birth defects and fetal malformations.
If you are trying-to-conceive, try to cut drinking out of your life well before your first positive pregnancy test. If you have questions about smoking, drinking or caffeine intake, please contact your doctor regarding optimizing preconception and pregnancy health. If you are on prescription drugs or using herbal medications, talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant.
Pregnancy Diet, Weight, and Hormonal BalanceTip the scales in your favor. If you are either overweight or underweight, it's likely that your odds of conceiving may be, to differing degrees, somewhat decreased. This is because being overweight or underweight can impact your health and hormonal balance. The right balance of hormones during your cycle is of central importance for menstrual cycle regularity - and for ovulation to take place.
If you are planning on conceiving and you are overweight, consider talking with your doctor about a diet and exercise plan tailored to your unique needs. If you are underweight, or run marathons, etc, your cycle balance may be out of whack as well. Again, your doctor is the best resource here. What's important to remember is that a healthy body mass index will support hormonal balance, cycle regularity, and regular ovulation. This means you will get pregnant faster.
Pregnancy No-No's: Smoking, Drinking, and CaffeineSmoking is not only bad for your health, it may be bad your baby's health as well. Duh. Drugs, smoking, and alcohol can result in premature babies, unhealthy birth-weights, miscarriages. Needless to say, stop taking drugs or smoking even before you start trying to get pregnant. And avoid second-hand smoke as well. Coffee? Caffeine,
if possible, should also be largely avoided, though very minute amounts of caffeine (as found certain types of green tea) may actually increases the odds of conceiving. In general, coffee is not advised during pregnancy. Alcohol? Of course, these beverages should be avoided, as alcohol is indeed linked with increased chances of birth defects and fetal malformations.
If you are trying-to-conceive, try to cut drinking out of your life well before your first positive pregnancy test. If you have questions about smoking, drinking or caffeine intake, please contact your doctor regarding optimizing preconception and pregnancy health. If you are on prescription drugs or using herbal medications, talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant.
Pregnancy Diet, Weight, and Hormonal BalanceTip the scales in your favor. If you are either overweight or underweight, it's likely that your odds of conceiving may be, to differing degrees, somewhat decreased. This is because being overweight or underweight can impact your health and hormonal balance. The right balance of hormones during your cycle is of central importance for menstrual cycle regularity - and for ovulation to take place.
If you are planning on conceiving and you are overweight, consider talking with your doctor about a diet and exercise plan tailored to your unique needs. If you are underweight, or run marathons, etc, your cycle balance may be out of whack as well. Again, your doctor is the best resource here. What's important to remember is that a healthy body mass index will support hormonal balance, cycle regularity, and regular ovulation. This means you will get pregnant faster.
Clearly, trying to get pregnant while on birth control will certainly impair your chances. However, many women think that once they stop the pill, they will get pregnant instantly, or at least their cycles are expected to return to normal right away. The fact is, while you may indeed become pregnant your first cycle off the birth control pill or patch, the odds are it will take some time for your hormones to get back to normal - or for your cycle to become "clockwork" again. Once your cycle is balanced and normalized, it becomes much easier to predict ovulation and know when you are most fertile.
Pregnancy No-No's: Smoking, Drinking, and CaffeineSmoking is not only bad for your health, it may be bad your baby's health as well. Duh. Drugs, smoking, and alcohol can result in premature babies, unhealthy birth-weights, miscarriages. Needless to say, stop taking drugs or smoking even before you start trying to get pregnant. And avoid second-hand smoke as well. Coffee? Caffeine, if possible, should also be largely avoided, though very minute amounts of caffeine (as found certain types of green tea) may actually increases the odds of conceiving.
In general, coffee is not advised during pregnancy. Alcohol? Of course, these beverages should be avoided, as alcohol is indeed linked with increased chances of birth defects and fetal malformations. If you are trying-to-conceive, try to cut drinking out of your life well before your first positive pregnancy test. If you have questions about smoking, drinking or caffeine intake, please contact your doctor regarding optimizing preconception and pregnancy health.
If you are on prescription drugs or using herbal medications, talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant. Pregnancy Diet, Weight, and Hormonal BalanceTip the scales in your favor. If you are either overweight or underweight, it's likely that your odds of conceiving may be, to differing degrees, somewhat decreased. This is because being overweight or underweight can impact your health and hormonal balance. The right balance of hormones during your cycle is of central importance for menstrual cycle regularity - and for ovulation to take place.
If you are planning on conceiving and you are overweight, consider talking with your doctor about a diet and exercise plan tailored to your unique needs. If you are underweight, or run marathons, etc, your cycle balance may be out of whack as well. Again, your doctor is the best resource here. What's important to remember is that a healthy body mass index will support hormonal balance, cycle regularity, and regular ovulation. This means you will get pregnant faster.
Pregnancy Tips to Help You Conceive
Ovulation-calculator.com was created to help couples get pregnant - naturally, healthily, and quickly - by providing tons of information on fertility, on details about the menstrual cycle, and on the tools to help women "take charge of their fertility" and predict when they will most likely ovulate. However, before you even start fertility charting, there are a number of basic tips that will help you ensure a regular cycle and promote a healthy pregnancy.
In fact, effectively predicting ovulation, in large part, requires that you take care of the preconception preliminaries and focus on the more basic aspects of trying-to-conceive. Let's take a look at some fundamental tips for getting pregnant, and feel free to follow the links to other helpful pages that will elaborate on each topic in detail!
Folic Acid, Prenatals, and Omega-3 SupplementsAlmost every doctor will tell you that, if you are considering have a baby, you should start taking a prenatal vitamin now, one that contains at a very minimum of 400mcg folic acid. As you likely know, folic acid is the B vitamin that has been shown, time and again, to decrease the risk of certain birth defects - particularly serious defects that revolve around the brain, spinal cord, or neural tube.
The important thing to remember, here, is that you should be taking a prenatal vitamin before you become pregnant, as physiological fetal structures like the neural tube begin developing very early in pregnancy - even during the first weeks. Another bright note: some research indicates that simple prenatal vitamin supplementation may increase your odds of conceiving. For women seeking cycle regularity or hormonal balance, a supplement like FertilAid for Women integrates a complete prenatal vitamin with fertility-improving herbal components like vitex.
So, if pink is the new black, as they say, then Omega-3 fatty acids are the new folic acid. Let me clarify: Today, most women are well-informed about the benefits of folic acid in promoting fetal health. What women might not know is that Omega-3 fatty acids are increasingly viewed as the next important supplement for ensuring a strong pregnancy and healthy fetal/infant development (particularly for your baby's eyes and brain). Omega-3s provide nutrients that support brain development, increased attention spans, and ensure more comfortable deliveries. You can purchase an impurity-free Omega-3 supplement from Fairhaven Health - Pregnancy Plus Omega 3.
In fact, effectively predicting ovulation, in large part, requires that you take care of the preconception preliminaries and focus on the more basic aspects of trying-to-conceive. Let's take a look at some fundamental tips for getting pregnant, and feel free to follow the links to other helpful pages that will elaborate on each topic in detail!
Folic Acid, Prenatals, and Omega-3 SupplementsAlmost every doctor will tell you that, if you are considering have a baby, you should start taking a prenatal vitamin now, one that contains at a very minimum of 400mcg folic acid. As you likely know, folic acid is the B vitamin that has been shown, time and again, to decrease the risk of certain birth defects - particularly serious defects that revolve around the brain, spinal cord, or neural tube.
The important thing to remember, here, is that you should be taking a prenatal vitamin before you become pregnant, as physiological fetal structures like the neural tube begin developing very early in pregnancy - even during the first weeks. Another bright note: some research indicates that simple prenatal vitamin supplementation may increase your odds of conceiving. For women seeking cycle regularity or hormonal balance, a supplement like FertilAid for Women integrates a complete prenatal vitamin with fertility-improving herbal components like vitex.
So, if pink is the new black, as they say, then Omega-3 fatty acids are the new folic acid. Let me clarify: Today, most women are well-informed about the benefits of folic acid in promoting fetal health. What women might not know is that Omega-3 fatty acids are increasingly viewed as the next important supplement for ensuring a strong pregnancy and healthy fetal/infant development (particularly for your baby's eyes and brain). Omega-3s provide nutrients that support brain development, increased attention spans, and ensure more comfortable deliveries. You can purchase an impurity-free Omega-3 supplement from Fairhaven Health - Pregnancy Plus Omega 3.
WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR
Pregnancy Test
A home test kit for pregnancy is a safe, non-intrusive and cost effective method of confirming pregnancy. Positive results are usually right. If you still have doubts, consult your doctor for a urine test or blood test to confirm pregnancy. Once the pregnancy is confirmed, you need to plan your pregnancy. Keep a pregnancy journal. Jot down how you feel, important pregnancy week-by-week information, and things you would like your baby to read when she grows up. This is a great gift for the baby. You could also share some of the entries from the journal with your partner.
WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR
Call for an appointment if you suspect you are pregnant, are currently pregnant and are not receiving prenatal care, or if you are unable to manage common complaints without medication.
Call your health care provider if you suspect you are pregnant and are on medications for diabetes, thyroid disease, seizures, or high blood pressure. Notify your health care provider if you are currently pregnant and have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, chemicals, radiation, or unusual pollutants.
Call your health care provider if you are currently pregnant and you develop fever, chills, or painful urination. It is urgent that you call your health care provider if you are currently pregnant and notice any amount of vaginal bleeding, the membranes rupture (water breaks), or you experience physical or severe emotional trauma. Hypertension is the term doctors use for high blood pressure. Blood pressure readings are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and usually given as 2 numbers.
For example, 140 over 90 (written as 140/90). The top number is your systolic pressure, the pressure created when your heart beats. It is considered high if it is consistently over 140. The bottom number is your diastolic pressure, the pressure inside blood vessels when the heart is at rest. It is considered high if it is consistently over 90. Either or both of these numbers may be too high. Pre-hypertension is when your systolic blood pressure is between 120 and 139 or your diastolic blood pressure is between 80 and 89 on multiple readings.
If you have pre-hypertension, you are more likely to develop high blood pressure at some point. Blood pressure is the force with which blood pushes against the artery walls as it travels through the body. Like air in a balloon, blood fills arteries to a certain capacity—and just as too much air pressure can cause damage to a balloon, too much blood pressure can harm healthy arteries. Blood pressure is measured by two numbers—systolic pressure and diastolic pressure.
Systolic pressure measures cardiac output and refers to the pressure in the arterial system at its highest. Diastolic pressure measures peripheral resistance and refers to arterial pressure at its lowest. Blood pressure is normally measured at the brachial artery with a sphygmomanometer (pressure cuff) in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and given as systolic over diastolic pressure.
Considerations
Normal menstrual flow lasts about 4 days, produces a total blood loss of 30 to 80 ml (about 2 to 8 tablespoons), and occurs normally every 28 days (plus or minus 7 days). Vaginal bleeding may be something to worry about for women over age 50 (postmenopausal). The risk of malignancy increases with age. Make sure that bleeding is coming from the vagina and is not from the rectum or in the urine. Inserting a tampon into the vagina will confirm the vagina, cervix, or uterus as the source of bleeding. A careful exam by your health care provider is frequently the best way to sort out the source of the bleeding. This exam can be accomplished even while you are bleeding. Do not delay getting an exam just because you are currently bleeding.
A home test kit for pregnancy is a safe, non-intrusive and cost effective method of confirming pregnancy. Positive results are usually right. If you still have doubts, consult your doctor for a urine test or blood test to confirm pregnancy. Once the pregnancy is confirmed, you need to plan your pregnancy. Keep a pregnancy journal. Jot down how you feel, important pregnancy week-by-week information, and things you would like your baby to read when she grows up. This is a great gift for the baby. You could also share some of the entries from the journal with your partner.
WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR
Call for an appointment if you suspect you are pregnant, are currently pregnant and are not receiving prenatal care, or if you are unable to manage common complaints without medication.
Call your health care provider if you suspect you are pregnant and are on medications for diabetes, thyroid disease, seizures, or high blood pressure. Notify your health care provider if you are currently pregnant and have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, chemicals, radiation, or unusual pollutants.
Call your health care provider if you are currently pregnant and you develop fever, chills, or painful urination. It is urgent that you call your health care provider if you are currently pregnant and notice any amount of vaginal bleeding, the membranes rupture (water breaks), or you experience physical or severe emotional trauma. Hypertension is the term doctors use for high blood pressure. Blood pressure readings are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and usually given as 2 numbers.
For example, 140 over 90 (written as 140/90). The top number is your systolic pressure, the pressure created when your heart beats. It is considered high if it is consistently over 140. The bottom number is your diastolic pressure, the pressure inside blood vessels when the heart is at rest. It is considered high if it is consistently over 90. Either or both of these numbers may be too high. Pre-hypertension is when your systolic blood pressure is between 120 and 139 or your diastolic blood pressure is between 80 and 89 on multiple readings.
If you have pre-hypertension, you are more likely to develop high blood pressure at some point. Blood pressure is the force with which blood pushes against the artery walls as it travels through the body. Like air in a balloon, blood fills arteries to a certain capacity—and just as too much air pressure can cause damage to a balloon, too much blood pressure can harm healthy arteries. Blood pressure is measured by two numbers—systolic pressure and diastolic pressure.
Systolic pressure measures cardiac output and refers to the pressure in the arterial system at its highest. Diastolic pressure measures peripheral resistance and refers to arterial pressure at its lowest. Blood pressure is normally measured at the brachial artery with a sphygmomanometer (pressure cuff) in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and given as systolic over diastolic pressure.
Considerations
Normal menstrual flow lasts about 4 days, produces a total blood loss of 30 to 80 ml (about 2 to 8 tablespoons), and occurs normally every 28 days (plus or minus 7 days). Vaginal bleeding may be something to worry about for women over age 50 (postmenopausal). The risk of malignancy increases with age. Make sure that bleeding is coming from the vagina and is not from the rectum or in the urine. Inserting a tampon into the vagina will confirm the vagina, cervix, or uterus as the source of bleeding. A careful exam by your health care provider is frequently the best way to sort out the source of the bleeding. This exam can be accomplished even while you are bleeding. Do not delay getting an exam just because you are currently bleeding.
Information about Pregnancy
Prior to modern medicine, many mothers and their babies did not survive pregnancy and the birth process. Today, good prenatal care can significantly improve the quality of the pregnancy and the outcome for the infant and mother.
Good prenatal care includes:
Good nutrition and health habits before and during pregnancy
Frequent prenatal examinations to detect early problems
Routine ultrasounds to detect fetal abnormalities and problems
Routine screening for:
Sexually transmitted diseases
Rubella immunity
Blood type problems (Rh and ABO)
Diabetes
Genetic disorders -- if a family history or the age of the mother presents a high risk
Blood pressure abnormalities
Urine protein
Women who choose to have an abortion usually do so in the very early stages of the pregnancy (usually before 12 weeks gestation). Abortion is legal through the 24th week of pregnancy. The abortion procedure, however, becomes more difficult with advancing gestational age, and many providers do not perform pregnancy terminations in the second trimester.
Women who plan to continue a pregnancy to term need to choose a health care provider who will provide prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum services. Provider choices in most communities include:
Physicians specializing in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN)
Certified nurse midwives (CNMs)
Certain family practice physicians
Certain family nurse practitioners (FNPs) or physician assistants (PAs) who work with a physician
Family health care providers, or generalists, can help manage women throughout normal pregnancies and deliveries. If there is a problem with the pregnancy, your doctor will refer you to specialist.
The goals of prenatal care are to:
Monitor both the mother and baby throughout the pregnancy
Look for changes that may lead to a high-risk pregnancy
Explain nutritional requirements throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period
Explain activity recommendations or restrictions
Address common complaints that may arise during pregnancy (for example, backache, joint pain, nausea, heartburn, headaches, urinary frequency, leg cramps, and constipation) and how to manage them, preferably without medications
Women who are considering becoming pregnant, or who are pregnant, should eat a balanced diet and take a vitamin and mineral supplement that includes at least 0.4 milligrams (400 micrograms) of folic acid. Folic acid is needed to decrease the risk of certain birth defects (such as spina bifida).
Pregnant women are advised to avoid all medications, unless the medications are necessary and recommended by a prenatal health care provider. Women should discuss all medication use with their providers.
Pregnant women should avoid all alcohol and drug use. They should not smoke. They should avoid herbal preparations and common over-the-counter medications that may interfere with normal development of the fetus.
Prenatal visits are typically scheduled:
Every 4 weeks during the first 32 weeks of gestation
Every 2 weeks from 32 to 36 weeks gestation
Weekly from 36 weeks to delivery
Weight gain, blood pressure, fundal height, and fetal heart beats (as appropriate) are usually measured and recorded at each visit, and routine urine screening tests are performed.
Good prenatal care includes:
Good nutrition and health habits before and during pregnancy
Frequent prenatal examinations to detect early problems
Routine ultrasounds to detect fetal abnormalities and problems
Routine screening for:
Sexually transmitted diseases
Rubella immunity
Blood type problems (Rh and ABO)
Diabetes
Genetic disorders -- if a family history or the age of the mother presents a high risk
Blood pressure abnormalities
Urine protein
Women who choose to have an abortion usually do so in the very early stages of the pregnancy (usually before 12 weeks gestation). Abortion is legal through the 24th week of pregnancy. The abortion procedure, however, becomes more difficult with advancing gestational age, and many providers do not perform pregnancy terminations in the second trimester.
Women who plan to continue a pregnancy to term need to choose a health care provider who will provide prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum services. Provider choices in most communities include:
Physicians specializing in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN)
Certified nurse midwives (CNMs)
Certain family practice physicians
Certain family nurse practitioners (FNPs) or physician assistants (PAs) who work with a physician
Family health care providers, or generalists, can help manage women throughout normal pregnancies and deliveries. If there is a problem with the pregnancy, your doctor will refer you to specialist.
The goals of prenatal care are to:
Monitor both the mother and baby throughout the pregnancy
Look for changes that may lead to a high-risk pregnancy
Explain nutritional requirements throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period
Explain activity recommendations or restrictions
Address common complaints that may arise during pregnancy (for example, backache, joint pain, nausea, heartburn, headaches, urinary frequency, leg cramps, and constipation) and how to manage them, preferably without medications
Women who are considering becoming pregnant, or who are pregnant, should eat a balanced diet and take a vitamin and mineral supplement that includes at least 0.4 milligrams (400 micrograms) of folic acid. Folic acid is needed to decrease the risk of certain birth defects (such as spina bifida).
Pregnant women are advised to avoid all medications, unless the medications are necessary and recommended by a prenatal health care provider. Women should discuss all medication use with their providers.
Pregnant women should avoid all alcohol and drug use. They should not smoke. They should avoid herbal preparations and common over-the-counter medications that may interfere with normal development of the fetus.
Prenatal visits are typically scheduled:
Every 4 weeks during the first 32 weeks of gestation
Every 2 weeks from 32 to 36 weeks gestation
Weekly from 36 weeks to delivery
Weight gain, blood pressure, fundal height, and fetal heart beats (as appropriate) are usually measured and recorded at each visit, and routine urine screening tests are performed.
Early Pregnancy Symptom - How To Detect Pregnancy
An early pregnancy symptom draws your attention to the fact that you might have conceived. By paying attention to your body and listening to it, you may discover pregnancy almost right after conception. Every early pregnancy symptom confirms pregnancy. If the early pregnancy symptom is not usual, it may be a signal for you to see a doctor immediately.
Read up more on pregnancy week-by-week symptoms and the development of the baby. This will help you prepare for pregnancy, childbirth and life after having a baby. Many women who are tuned to their bodies can detect early pregnancy symptom almost as soon as it appears. Others may not know until a few weeks later. This article discusses the various pregnancy symptoms - and how to recognize signs of pregnancy.
Many women go into an anxious tizzy if their period is overdue. However, a missed period is not a reliable indicator of pregnancy, at least not as an early pregnancy symptom. Sometimes, periods can be delayed due to a variety of factors like medical treatment, stress etc. Looking for early pregnancy symptom like swollen breasts might be a better option then.
Here Are Signs Of Early Pregnancy To Watch Out For
· Implantation Bleeding - Implantation bleeding takes place almost right after conception. When the fertilized egg attaches to the walls of the uterus, some women might experience spotting. This is nothing to worry about, unless the bleeding is heavy.
Cramps - Cramping is another early pregnancy symptom. When cramping occurs, many women feel pain and slight contraction in the uterus. This symptom is very like the cramping you might feel during menstrual periods. Cramping is a first indicator of pregnancy for many women.
Tender Breasts - Your breasts might feel tender or painful to touch. This symptom is confused for the onset of periods. However, apart from increased sensitivity of the breasts, you might also notice the breasts have become slightly larger.
Morning Sickness - Another icon of pregnancy, morning sickness is your body's way of telling you about hormonal changes happening in your body. Increased sense of smell and taste are partly responsible for the queasy feeling. An early pregnancy symptom that is synonymous with pregnancy, morning sickness can strike you at any time, day or night.
Read up more on pregnancy week-by-week symptoms and the development of the baby. This will help you prepare for pregnancy, childbirth and life after having a baby. Many women who are tuned to their bodies can detect early pregnancy symptom almost as soon as it appears. Others may not know until a few weeks later. This article discusses the various pregnancy symptoms - and how to recognize signs of pregnancy.
Many women go into an anxious tizzy if their period is overdue. However, a missed period is not a reliable indicator of pregnancy, at least not as an early pregnancy symptom. Sometimes, periods can be delayed due to a variety of factors like medical treatment, stress etc. Looking for early pregnancy symptom like swollen breasts might be a better option then.
Here Are Signs Of Early Pregnancy To Watch Out For
· Implantation Bleeding - Implantation bleeding takes place almost right after conception. When the fertilized egg attaches to the walls of the uterus, some women might experience spotting. This is nothing to worry about, unless the bleeding is heavy.
Cramps - Cramping is another early pregnancy symptom. When cramping occurs, many women feel pain and slight contraction in the uterus. This symptom is very like the cramping you might feel during menstrual periods. Cramping is a first indicator of pregnancy for many women.
Tender Breasts - Your breasts might feel tender or painful to touch. This symptom is confused for the onset of periods. However, apart from increased sensitivity of the breasts, you might also notice the breasts have become slightly larger.
Morning Sickness - Another icon of pregnancy, morning sickness is your body's way of telling you about hormonal changes happening in your body. Increased sense of smell and taste are partly responsible for the queasy feeling. An early pregnancy symptom that is synonymous with pregnancy, morning sickness can strike you at any time, day or night.
Friday, February 27, 2009
How Does Home Pregnancy Test Works
A home pregnancy test kit is used to detect a specific hormone called hCG (human Chronic Gonadotropin), which is also called as “pregnancy hormone," which exists only in the period of pregnancy. This hormone is found in the urine or blood of a woman if she is pregnant, which is usually formed after 6 days of the conception. The amount of HCG increases in the body rapidly and it will be doubled for every two days. To get accurate results, it is better to perform the test after a week of the missed period. Instructions For Pregnancy TestThere are some necessary instructions of home pregnancy testing that helps in conducting the test precisely. The following are some of them:• Use FDA approved Kits: Before buying a testing kit, enquire whether the device is an FDA approved and is regulated by the US government. This is because the determined devices are sensibly safe and effective to test and get the correct results. • Study the precautions carefully: To understand all the precautions for testing, read the instructions carefully, which are provided with the testing device. These precautions explain the right way of testing and help in acquiring accurate results.• Get the device to normal temperature: Many people store the test kit in the refrigerator till they use it. But it has to be brought to the room temperature before using the device.• Contact your doctor: In certain cases there may be false results due to improper way of testing. In such circumstances it is better to contact your doctor and take their suggestions. It is a better option to confirm the test results when supposed that their test results are wrong.The above information provides a brief idea about the utilization of home pregnancy test kits and the precautions while using them.DrugAlcoholTest.com is an online store offering Drug Test and drug screening products in several formats including blood, Urine and Oral Drug Testing Kits. These drug-testing kits can be used discreetly for at home drug test or for random employee saliva drug test. Some of the popular products are Saliva Drug Test, Breathalyzer and Marijuana Drug Test Products.
SIGN & SYMPROMS OF PREGNANCY
Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters First trimester (0-12 weeks) Second trimester (13-28 weeks) Third trimester. /last trimester (29-40 weeks) First Trimester - Presumptive/subjective symptoms of early months of pregnancy are :
1. Amenorrhea - Cessation of menstruation during the reproductive period in an otherwise healthy individual having previous normal periods is due to pregnancy unless proved otherwise.
2. Morning sickness - It is present in 50% of cases and is more pronounced in first pregnancy. It appears following the missed period till the end of first trimester. It can be in form of nausea on rising from the bed or vomiting and loss of appetite.
3. Frequency of micturition (increased frequency of urination) - It is more during 8-12th week and symptoms disappear after the 12th week.
4. Breast discomfort - Feeding of fullness and pricking sensation is present from 6-8th week.
5. Easy fatigability is a frequent symptom.
Objective Signs
1. Breast Changes - Breast signs are valuable only in primigravidae (in first pregnancy) changes are evident from 6-8 weeks. There is enlargement of breast and delicate veins visible under the skin.Nipple and areola became more pigmented especially in dark women. Thick yellowish secretion can be expressed from nipple as early as 12th week.
2. Pelvic changes - Uterus remains a pelvic organ till 12th week. These changes may help in the diagnosis of pregnancy.Vaginal Sign - Copious non-irritative mucoid discharge from the vagina. Uterine Sign - Pregnant uterus feels soft and elastic and is enlarged in size. Regular and rhythmic uterine contractions can be elicited during bimanual examination by 4th week.
Second TrimesterThe symptoms of nausea & vomiting and frequency of micturition usually subside. The new features that appears are:
1. Quickening: It denotes the perception of active fetal movement by the women. It is felt about 16-18th week. It can be a useful guide to calculate the expected date of delivery.
2. Progressive enlargement of the lower abdomen.
3. Appearance of secondary areola in breast at about 20th week
4. Chloasma: pigmentation on the forehead and cheek may appear at about 24th week.
SignsThe symptoms of nausea & vomiting and frequency of micturition usually subside.
The new features that appears are:
1. Linea nigra - A linear pigmented line appears on abdomen below umbilicus in midline and can be seen from 20th week.
2. Striae (both pink and white) are visible on the lower abdomen.
3. Uterus is further enlarged till above the umbilicus and is ovoid in shape.
4. Imegular spasmodic infrequent and painless contraction can be felt on the uterus - Braxton Hicks contractions.
5. Active foetal movement can be felt by 20th week.
6. 5. Foetal heart sounds can be hard with a stethoscope by 18-20 weeks. It is the most conclusive clinical sign of pregnancy.
Third TrimesterSymptoms
1. Amenorrhoea Persists.
2. Enlargement of the abdomen is progressive which produces mechanical discomfort to the patient such as palpitation or dyspnoea following exertion.
3. Lightening - At about 38th week a sense of relief of the pressure symptoms is obtained due to descent of the head of the fetus into pelvis.
4. Frequency of micturition reappears.
5. Foetal movements are more pronounced.
Signs
1. Cutaneous changes - Increase in pigmentation and striae.
2. Uterine shape becomes spherical from cylindrical beyond 36th week.
3. Braxton Hicks contractions are more evident.
4. Palpation of the foetal parts become much easier
5. Foetal heart sound is heard distinctly
6. Radiology or sonography gives conclusive evidence of pregnancy.
1. Amenorrhea - Cessation of menstruation during the reproductive period in an otherwise healthy individual having previous normal periods is due to pregnancy unless proved otherwise.
2. Morning sickness - It is present in 50% of cases and is more pronounced in first pregnancy. It appears following the missed period till the end of first trimester. It can be in form of nausea on rising from the bed or vomiting and loss of appetite.
3. Frequency of micturition (increased frequency of urination) - It is more during 8-12th week and symptoms disappear after the 12th week.
4. Breast discomfort - Feeding of fullness and pricking sensation is present from 6-8th week.
5. Easy fatigability is a frequent symptom.
Objective Signs
1. Breast Changes - Breast signs are valuable only in primigravidae (in first pregnancy) changes are evident from 6-8 weeks. There is enlargement of breast and delicate veins visible under the skin.Nipple and areola became more pigmented especially in dark women. Thick yellowish secretion can be expressed from nipple as early as 12th week.
2. Pelvic changes - Uterus remains a pelvic organ till 12th week. These changes may help in the diagnosis of pregnancy.Vaginal Sign - Copious non-irritative mucoid discharge from the vagina. Uterine Sign - Pregnant uterus feels soft and elastic and is enlarged in size. Regular and rhythmic uterine contractions can be elicited during bimanual examination by 4th week.
Second TrimesterThe symptoms of nausea & vomiting and frequency of micturition usually subside. The new features that appears are:
1. Quickening: It denotes the perception of active fetal movement by the women. It is felt about 16-18th week. It can be a useful guide to calculate the expected date of delivery.
2. Progressive enlargement of the lower abdomen.
3. Appearance of secondary areola in breast at about 20th week
4. Chloasma: pigmentation on the forehead and cheek may appear at about 24th week.
SignsThe symptoms of nausea & vomiting and frequency of micturition usually subside.
The new features that appears are:
1. Linea nigra - A linear pigmented line appears on abdomen below umbilicus in midline and can be seen from 20th week.
2. Striae (both pink and white) are visible on the lower abdomen.
3. Uterus is further enlarged till above the umbilicus and is ovoid in shape.
4. Imegular spasmodic infrequent and painless contraction can be felt on the uterus - Braxton Hicks contractions.
5. Active foetal movement can be felt by 20th week.
6. 5. Foetal heart sounds can be hard with a stethoscope by 18-20 weeks. It is the most conclusive clinical sign of pregnancy.
Third TrimesterSymptoms
1. Amenorrhoea Persists.
2. Enlargement of the abdomen is progressive which produces mechanical discomfort to the patient such as palpitation or dyspnoea following exertion.
3. Lightening - At about 38th week a sense of relief of the pressure symptoms is obtained due to descent of the head of the fetus into pelvis.
4. Frequency of micturition reappears.
5. Foetal movements are more pronounced.
Signs
1. Cutaneous changes - Increase in pigmentation and striae.
2. Uterine shape becomes spherical from cylindrical beyond 36th week.
3. Braxton Hicks contractions are more evident.
4. Palpation of the foetal parts become much easier
5. Foetal heart sound is heard distinctly
6. Radiology or sonography gives conclusive evidence of pregnancy.
Risk factors for ectopic pregnancy
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Rate of ectopic pregnancy in women with previous known PID is increased 6-10 times higher than in women with no previous history of PID.
A published study of 745 women with one or more episodes of PID that attempted to conceive showed that 16% were infertile from tubal occlusion. Of those that conceived, 6.4% had ectopic pregnancies.
Pelvic inflammatory disease is usually caused by invasion of either gonorrhea or chlamydia from the cervix up to the uterus and tubes. The infection in these tissues causes an intense inflammatory response. Bacteria, white blood cells and other fluids (pus) fill the tubes as the body combats the infection. Eventually, the body wins and the bacteria are controlled and destroyed. However, during the healing process the delicate inner lining of the tubes (tubal mucosa) is permanently scarred. The end of the tube by the ovaries may become partially or completely blocked, and scar tissue often forms on the outside of the tubes and ovaries. All of these factors can impact ovarian or tubal function and the chances for conception in the future. If pelvic inflammatory disease is treated very early and aggressively with IV antibiotics, the tubal damage might be minimized, and fertility maintained.
Progestin contraceptives
Progesterone-bearing IUD's and ectopics: 16% of pregnancies were ectopics.
Pregnancy after tubal ligation
Tubal sterilization and ectopics: After non-laparoscopic tubal ligation about 12% of pregnancies are ectopic.
After laparoscopic tubal coagulation about 51% of pregnancies are ectopic.
Previous tubal surgery
Rate of ectopic pregnancy in women with previous known PID is increased 6-10 times higher than in women with no previous history of PID.
A published study of 745 women with one or more episodes of PID that attempted to conceive showed that 16% were infertile from tubal occlusion. Of those that conceived, 6.4% had ectopic pregnancies.
Pelvic inflammatory disease is usually caused by invasion of either gonorrhea or chlamydia from the cervix up to the uterus and tubes. The infection in these tissues causes an intense inflammatory response. Bacteria, white blood cells and other fluids (pus) fill the tubes as the body combats the infection. Eventually, the body wins and the bacteria are controlled and destroyed. However, during the healing process the delicate inner lining of the tubes (tubal mucosa) is permanently scarred. The end of the tube by the ovaries may become partially or completely blocked, and scar tissue often forms on the outside of the tubes and ovaries. All of these factors can impact ovarian or tubal function and the chances for conception in the future. If pelvic inflammatory disease is treated very early and aggressively with IV antibiotics, the tubal damage might be minimized, and fertility maintained.
Progestin contraceptives
Progesterone-bearing IUD's and ectopics: 16% of pregnancies were ectopics.
Pregnancy after tubal ligation
Tubal sterilization and ectopics: After non-laparoscopic tubal ligation about 12% of pregnancies are ectopic.
After laparoscopic tubal coagulation about 51% of pregnancies are ectopic.
Previous tubal surgery
first trimester
The first 13 weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period is referred to as the first trimester, this is a very delicate time for the fetus. The fetus is so small that too much of the wrong thing or not enough of the right thing can cause brain damage, spina bifida and other defects. It is important to quit smoking, drinking and taking drugs when pregnant. It is also imperative to get 0.4 mg of folic acid a day. Check out nutrition labels. Some cereals offer 100 percent of the daily recommendation in just one serving. Other folic-friendly foods include orange juice, rice, pasta, breads and leafy greens. Mothers should not change cat litter boxes or eat undercooked meat during pregnancy, which can contain harmful toxoplasmosis that an adult's immune system can ward off, but against which a developing baby has no defense. Paint fumes, poisons and other chemical fumes can also have harmful effects on a baby.
For the health of the baby, it is important to see a physician regularly. An Ob/Gyn can show women how their personal health relates to their baby’s health, monitor the health of the baby and help new mothers with any questions they may have.
There are certain things to expect in the first trimester. First, women may still experience some spotting during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Breast tenderness also usually accompanies the first trimester as milk glands are forming. Breasts grow during this time, the areola darkens and nipples become more erect. Increased levels of progesterone in the body and the pressure of the uterus on the bladder can cause frequent urination. Sleepiness is another common symptom in the first trimester. Usually during this time, women need about ten hours of sleep a night. Women who work should rest after they get home from work and arrange to have someone help with the housework. Low blood pressure can cause fainting during the first trimester as a large amount of blood is flowing to the uterus and the progesterone causes smooth muscles of the blood vessels to dilate. Increasing fiber and fluid intake can help avoid constipation, which is very common in the first trimester. Lower back pain can also be a nuisance during this time. top
For the health of the baby, it is important to see a physician regularly. An Ob/Gyn can show women how their personal health relates to their baby’s health, monitor the health of the baby and help new mothers with any questions they may have.
There are certain things to expect in the first trimester. First, women may still experience some spotting during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Breast tenderness also usually accompanies the first trimester as milk glands are forming. Breasts grow during this time, the areola darkens and nipples become more erect. Increased levels of progesterone in the body and the pressure of the uterus on the bladder can cause frequent urination. Sleepiness is another common symptom in the first trimester. Usually during this time, women need about ten hours of sleep a night. Women who work should rest after they get home from work and arrange to have someone help with the housework. Low blood pressure can cause fainting during the first trimester as a large amount of blood is flowing to the uterus and the progesterone causes smooth muscles of the blood vessels to dilate. Increasing fiber and fluid intake can help avoid constipation, which is very common in the first trimester. Lower back pain can also be a nuisance during this time. top
signs of pregnancy
The most common sign of pregnancy in women is a missed period. One of the best ways to confirm pregnancy in this case is to perform a self-pregnancy test, which is very accurate when done correctly. A pregnancy test through a physician should be administered if there is a negative response when the test has been administered correctly. Even if a home pregnancy test is negative, treat the body as though pregnant until the physician disproves it.
Other than the missed period, signs of pregnancy include breast tenderness and nausea. Pregnancy also can cause a change in sleep patterns. Some women are constantly sleepy while others are unable to get any sleep. Frequent urination, lower abdominal cramps, backaches, food cravings, and darkening of the areola are other symptoms.
Women can experience any of these indicators for reasons other than pregnancy. However, women who experience several at one time should consult their physician immediately and test for pregnancy. top
Other than the missed period, signs of pregnancy include breast tenderness and nausea. Pregnancy also can cause a change in sleep patterns. Some women are constantly sleepy while others are unable to get any sleep. Frequent urination, lower abdominal cramps, backaches, food cravings, and darkening of the areola are other symptoms.
Women can experience any of these indicators for reasons other than pregnancy. However, women who experience several at one time should consult their physician immediately and test for pregnancy. top
pregnancy & menopause
Many couples struggle with getting pregnant. In many cases, these couples need to consult with a health care professional to explore alternative options to traditional conception. However, there are a few lifestyle adjustments that couples can make that can increase chances of fertility.Lifestyle adjustments to increase the chances of pregnancy:
Have intercourse more than three times a week. If unsuccessful after twelve months, consult a physician.
Be sure to have intercourse during your most fertile days (days 5 to 14 of your menstrual cycle).
Men may need to wear loose-fitting undershorts as opposed to tight fitting briefs. Briefs can lower sperm count, as this garment increases temperature within the scrotum.
See a gynecologist if these changes are not effective. An Ob/Gyn can offer alternative pregnancy methods that require medical supervision.
preparation for pregnancyIt is helpful to begin to prepare for pregnancy at least a year in advance. That allows time to get to a healthy body weight slowly by eating nutritious foods, to stop smoking and drinking and to get off birth control. Getting the body to a healthy weight is a crucial step to take before pregnancy since mothers who are overweight are more likely to have stillborn babies and encounter other health issues like diabetes and hypertension. Dieting during pregnancy can lead to fetal complications and should never be attempted. A healthy diet with recommended prenatal amounts of folic acid and iron is crucial three months before conception. Getting off birth control allows a woman's period to stabilize making it easier to predict the due date, which helps prevent against miscarriages. The first few weeks into the first trimester are crucial to having a healthy baby yet many women don't even realize they are pregnant during this time. Preparing to be pregnant before trying to conceive is extremely helpful to the health of the fetus.
Men should also avoid stress and drinking three months before conception, which will help regulate hormone levels in sperm.
Another good game plan when preparing for conception is to visit the gynecologist. A physician can recommend multi-vitamins and using a barrier method like a condom rather than taking hormones to keep from getting pregnant. The physician can discuss medical history and recommend individual health precautions before and during pregnancy. Daily medication may be altered to keep from harming the fetus. Also mothers-to-be should be updated on all immunizations, especially rubella. Be sure to get help for depression or anxiety as well. Mental health is another crucial aspect to the developing baby. top
Have intercourse more than three times a week. If unsuccessful after twelve months, consult a physician.
Be sure to have intercourse during your most fertile days (days 5 to 14 of your menstrual cycle).
Men may need to wear loose-fitting undershorts as opposed to tight fitting briefs. Briefs can lower sperm count, as this garment increases temperature within the scrotum.
See a gynecologist if these changes are not effective. An Ob/Gyn can offer alternative pregnancy methods that require medical supervision.
preparation for pregnancyIt is helpful to begin to prepare for pregnancy at least a year in advance. That allows time to get to a healthy body weight slowly by eating nutritious foods, to stop smoking and drinking and to get off birth control. Getting the body to a healthy weight is a crucial step to take before pregnancy since mothers who are overweight are more likely to have stillborn babies and encounter other health issues like diabetes and hypertension. Dieting during pregnancy can lead to fetal complications and should never be attempted. A healthy diet with recommended prenatal amounts of folic acid and iron is crucial three months before conception. Getting off birth control allows a woman's period to stabilize making it easier to predict the due date, which helps prevent against miscarriages. The first few weeks into the first trimester are crucial to having a healthy baby yet many women don't even realize they are pregnant during this time. Preparing to be pregnant before trying to conceive is extremely helpful to the health of the fetus.
Men should also avoid stress and drinking three months before conception, which will help regulate hormone levels in sperm.
Another good game plan when preparing for conception is to visit the gynecologist. A physician can recommend multi-vitamins and using a barrier method like a condom rather than taking hormones to keep from getting pregnant. The physician can discuss medical history and recommend individual health precautions before and during pregnancy. Daily medication may be altered to keep from harming the fetus. Also mothers-to-be should be updated on all immunizations, especially rubella. Be sure to get help for depression or anxiety as well. Mental health is another crucial aspect to the developing baby. top
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