By: Gen Mason

Finding out that you're pregnant is a very happy time. There are so many things to do like buying a crib, diapers, stroller, and much, much more!

Nine months seems like an eternity when you first find out you're pregnant, but it really is not. There are so many milestones that happen and so much to do it will go by in a flash.

So you're pregnant, what is a due date and when is it?

Your due date is the date that is given to you of when you can expect to go into labor. The dates are not usually very accurate. More often women go into labor with 2 weeks of the expected due date.

The most accurate way to determine a due date is when the woman knows the day of conception. This rarely happens so normally due dates are determined by using the 1st day of the woman’s last period. Normally the total gestation time is added to the 1st day of the last period minus 2 weeks.

Example:

The total gestation time is 40 weeks (9 months). If the woman's last period was on October 1st, 2005, you would add for weeks to that date and the date you would have then would be July 1st, 2006. You take away 2 weeks from this date and you have June 15th, 2006. So your due date would be June 15th.

This method is called the LMP Method (last menstrual period).

Two weeks are taken away from the 40 weeks because it is said that women can ovulate within 2 weeks of their last period.

Another interesting way to calculate your due date is called Naegle's Rule. As with LMP, Naegle's Rule also uses the first day of your last period.

Calculate the 1st day of your last period.
Count back 3 months from that day
Add 7 days

This is another easy way to calculate your due date.

Ultrasounds can also give an expecting mother her due date. Ultrasound technicians use the ultrasounds to determine the baby's age by looking at different body parts and organs.

There are also many online websites for expectant mothers that offer pregnancy due date calculators. These calculators often use the LMP method by asking you to put in the first day of your last period and calculating your due date from there. The calculators not only give the mothers a due date to anticipate, but can also be used to mark the different milestones of pregnancy.

For example:

the time when a baby develops organs
2nd trimester
3rd trimester
and your due date

In ancient times women used the different phases of the moon. When a woman suspected that she could be pregnant she would look at the moon and what phase it was in. Over time she would count how many times the moon was in that phase. At the 10th time the moon entered into that phase and the 10th period she missed, the woman would know she was due soon.

Dr. Naegle (with Naegle's Rule) determined that the ancient way was also an accurate way to determine a due date since a woman's cycle seems to follow by the moon’s cycle.

Although the ancient way is no longer used it normally came pretty close. Whether you want to calculate the moon's phases or use LMP to calculate it, there are many, many ways to find out a round about date as to when your new baby will be born!




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Gen Mason is a loving mother of 2 beautiful children. To learn about losing weight during and after pregnancy go to Pregnancy Without Pounds

Amoxicillin Is Okay For Pregnant Women And Pets
By: Michael Connelly

When the antibiotic known as Amoxicillin was discovered and developed by Beecham Research Laboratories in 1972 it was an instant success. With very few side effects, it proved to be very good for the treatment of bacterial infections. It is particularly adept at treating anaerobic infections, which are the stubborn kind that can grow without the aid of oxygen. Before long it was being widely prescribed for conditions that ranged from ear infections, to bladder infections to strep throat.

In addition to treating these common ailments there are also some other uses of Amoxicillin that are not so common.

Amoxicillin has a very interesting history. It was developed as a synthetic improvement to Penicillin after scientists discovered that it had many flaws that could be improved upon. For example, Penicillin does not absorb well into the intestinal tract, resulting in a 70 percent loss when taken orally. It can also be broken down by certain bacteria such as staphylococci allowing it to develop a resistance.

To remedy the problems associated with Penicillin the scientists at Beecham Labs went to work on producing a wonder drug that had its strengths, but without any of the weaknesses. The result is an antibiotic that covers a broad spectrum of bacterial infections. Today, Amoxicillin has become the most commonly used antibiotic in the World. But some of the things that it can be used for may surprise you.

If you remember back in 2001 during the time just after our country was attacked by terrorists you will recall that there was an anthrax scare going around the United States. A U.S. Post Office and several politicians received envelopes laced with traces of this deadly disease and the idea of a biological attack started a nationwide panic.

Hysteria swept across the Country in 2001 and everyone soon wanted to know how they could prevent anthrax from infecting their bodies if they happened to be a victim of a biological weapon attack. The big questions at the time were how to avoid getting this disease and how to cure it if you happened to be so unfortunate to actually get it.

The public soon discovered that there are basically 3 different antibiotics used for the prevention of anthrax infections. There is Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline and Amoxicillin. Ciprofloxacin is the most widely used antibiotic for treating this disease, and then there is Doxycycline which is also commonly used. But these two drugs can cause problems for women who are pregnant, so the only one left for them would be Amoxicillin.

There have been no conclusive studies performed on the effects that Ciprofloxacin has on pregnant women and their babies. But there have been several studies of this subject using Doxycycline and the evidence shows that problems can occur with the teeth and bones of some fetuses. So, a study on Doxycyclene that yielded negative results for pregnant women and their fetuses and no accepted studies at all on Ciproflaxin for this issue narrowed the list down to one from the three available anthrax antibiotics that can be safely taken by pregnant women.

Studies of pregnant women who used Amoxicillin have yielded no negative results for the women and their babies. While the drug will cross the placenta it is still considered to be safe for use during a pregnancy. Because of these findings doctors are much more likely to prescribe it to pregnant women who would like treatment for the prevention of an anthrax infection. Not exactly your everyday use for this versatile antibiotic, but a very useful one nonetheless

Amoxicillin is also used to treat pregnant women who have Chlamydia.

Amoxicillin is one of the most widely prescribed antibiotics to our best friends and household cats too. Just like us, dogs and cats can get bacterial infections that can be deadly if left untreated. For example, pets that are owned by people who live in rural areas can be victims of a coyote attack or attacks from other wild animals when they wander outside in the back yard. If a pet is lucky enough to survive an attack by a wild animal they will more than likely have wounds that can get infected. Veterinarians who treat such wounds will need to prescribe an antibiotic to the wounded pet, and the most commonly used one is Amoxicillin.

Pet medicine is usually administered orally in a pill form that is basically the same one people take but with a smaller dose inside. The normal dose of Amoxicillin for dogs and cats is 5 to 10 milligrams per pound, taken every 12 to 24 hours.

The best way to administer a dose of Amoxicillin to a dog is to put the pill inside a small snack and give it to them. With cats, you can open the pills up and pour the contents into their food and then mix it in.

While the side effects that are associated with Amoxicillin use and people are relatively mild and uncommon they can be serious in some rare cases. Most mild reactions involve nausea and diarrhea. In rare cases people experience such things as severe skin rashes, jaundice, extreme fatigue and paleness of the skin. Amoxicillin should only be taken when prescribed by US licensed physicians and purchased from US licensed pharmacies, as with all prescription drugs and FDA approved drugs.

Amoxicillin is the most widely prescribed antibiotics in the World for some of the most commonly contracted bacterial infections such as strep throat and ear infections. However, there are some lesser know uses that are a bit out of the ordinary. Pregnant women, dogs and cats all have their own specific uses for this prescription drug that was created back in 1972 by a group of pharmaceutical scientists at Beecham Research Laboratories who wanted to make an antibiotic like Penicillin, only better.




Information about the Author:

Michael Connelly is an Author, Artist and award-winning Filmmaker who writes on a variety of topics that effect people in their every day lives. www.savealotonpharmacy.com

Pregnancy Articles: http://www.article-buzz.com

By: Julia Sullivan

Adolescent pregnancy in ninety nine percent of the cases is unwanted and is the major consequence of adolescent sexual activity, other than STDs. This issue has affected youth, families, educators, health care professionals, and government official. A study on the high school adolescents has concluded that forty eight percent of the males and forty five percent of the females are sexually active. One fourth of the high school students had sexual contact by fifteen years of age. The average age of boys is sixteen and a girl is seventeen, who have had intercourse. Ninety percent of adolescents, in the age range of fifteen to nineteen, say their pregnancy is unintended.

Seventy four percent of females above fourteen years and sixty percent of females below fifteen years have reported to have involuntary sex. Fifty percent of the adolescent pregnancies are within the time period of six months after the initial sexual intercourse. More than nine hundred thousand teenagers are reported to have become pregnant every year in the United States. Fifty one percent of the adolescent pregnancies result in live birth, thirty five percent result in induced abortion and fourteen percent result in stillbirths or miscarriages. Four out of ten adolescent females get pregnant, before they turn twenty, at least once. Twenty five percent of adolescent deliveries aren't the mother's first child. When a teenager gives birth to her first child, she increases the risk of begetting another child. One third of the adolescent parents are themselves result of adolescent pregnancies.

There are many reasons why adolescents choose to become sexually active at an early stage in life. The reasons can be early pubertal development, poverty, sexual abuse in childhood, lack of parent's attention, lack of career goals, family and cultural patterns of early sex, substance abuse, dropping out from school and poor school performance. Factors which discourage an adolescent to become sexually active are stable family environment, parental supervision, good family income, regular prayers, connectedness with parents and living with complete family and both the parents. The factors which are responsible for the consistent use of contraceptive among adolescents are academic success, anticipation for successful future, and involvement in a stable relationship.

There are many medical risks associated with adolescent pregnancies. Adolescents who are less than seventeen years are at a greater risk of developing medical complications, when compared to adult females. The risk is even more in teenagers below seventeen. The weight of the child, given birth by an adolescent, is very low in these pregnancies. It is usually below 2.5 kilogram. The rate of neonatal birth is also three times greater in adolescents, when compared to adults. Other problems caused by adolescent pregnancies are prematurity of the child, birth of underweight child, poor maternal weight gain, poor nutritional status, anemia, STDs and hypertension induced due to pregnancy.

Although there is an increase in the use of contraceptive methods by adolescents during their first sexual contact, only sixty three percent of the high school students have said to use condom while having sex previously. Adolescents, who use prescription contraceptives, delay their doctor's visit until the time they become sexually active for over a year.

According to a research, youngsters who have participated in sex education programs which gave them knowledge about contraception methods, abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases and youngsters who involved in discussions in order to get a clear picture, used contraceptives and condoms effectively without any increase in sexual activity. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has said that the solution for unwanted adolescent pregnancies and STDs are barrier contraceptive use and abstinence.



Information about the Author:

To read about first signs of pregnancy and bleeding during pregnancy, visit Pregnancy Facts.

Pregnancy Articles: http://www.article-buzz.com

By: Julia Sullivan

Choosing a baby name for your child is almost like choosing his identity. Ever heard about the association of a person's name with his personality? That's how our names really work. A name molds a person's identity like a cookie-cutter. So, better get that best baby name for your son or daughter. Read on for some tips on how to provide that best baby name for your little angel.

1. Stop it already with the dictates of your family's tradition. Choosing the right baby name does not have to always rely on what your elderly relatives deem to be the best baby name. It is your baby's name, not theirs. So, better act like it. Once your baby is born he will be stuck with that baby name for life. That means it's not wise to just settle for any baby name that will suit your grandma's or auntie's taste.

2. Take a look of a picture of his future. You don't want your baby to be always called with a monicker that will forever ridicule him or will allow his playmates to make a big laughingstock out of him, right? Research about the meaning of the baby name you are eyeing to give to your baby. Don't consider Beelzebub as a prospective baby name just because you heard it from a TV show and you find it cute. Don't use Rodelfa just because a certain Mexican TV show's hunky lead actor is called Rodolfo. Just plainly saying yes to your gutfeel, thinking of the people that pops into your head upon hearing somebody spout a certain name, trying to follow a fad by naming your baby a certain celebrity's (sometimes notorious) or NOT THINKING AT ALL in giving your precious one his or her baby name are huge no-nos!

3. Consider reading the initials of the baby name you are planning to give your baby. Make sure they don't stand for anything funny, disturbing or something utterly stupid. Christine Sue Irving? What will happen on the next episode? Alvin Stephen Stuart? He'll surely remember not to get near any hole. Fran Ursula Catherine Klein? Uh-oh! See? Can you imagine the sickening situation you may put your child into when he or she grows up?

4. Go check your family tree once and for all. Some can't still get away from some traditions regarding baby name decisions, especially when they have a special bond with a certain family member that they want that person's name to be a part of their baby's name. If your planning to still follow the tradition of putting a part of your elder relatives' names on your baby's name, you have to know whether anybody else in your family use that name too. You don't want to confuse people when they're calling a name that's owned by two. Ask around.

5. Don't go for the overkill. Being too creative on thinking of a baby name can backfire, I'm telling you. Examples are too unique spellings. It will be hard for the kid to keep on spelling his or her name to people who only know the common spelling of such name.

6. Decide with your partner in coming up with the best baby name for your sweet baby. It wouldn't be nice to be always blamed when people ask who chose that awful baby name, right? Okay, kidding aside. Sharing on this kind of decision-making is a good way of furthering your bond as a couple, not to mention the possibility of coming up with a better baby name. Remember that the "two heads are better than one" thought also applies to dealing with the troubles of finding the most suitable baby name for your baby.

Sound, appeasing relatives and friends and avoiding embarrassing initials and discovery of disgusting meanings are some of the major concerns that should be considered in your quest for the perfect baby name. You might find them a bit taxing. But in the long run, you'll see that doing your homework will make your baby thank you when the right time comes. Happy baby naming!


Information about the Author:

Information on early signs of pregnancy can be found at the Pregnancy Facts website.

5 Effective Ways To Naturally Boost Male Fertility
By: Gabriela Rosa

Male factor represents approximately 40% of the reason some couples have difficulty conceiving. In many cases and with sufficient time, natural methods of treatment can make a dramatic improvement in the quality of sperm parameters--although at least 120 days of targeted treatment is required before definite improvements can be possible.

The key to optimum fertility is to be as healthy as possible prior to a conception attempt. This will not only improve your chances of a natural or assisted conception, but it will significantly improve your chances of having the healthiest possible baby. In addition research shows that couples who, together, undergo a comprehensive natural fertility program prior a conception attempt are at least 47.1% more likely to conceive through IVF and have approximately 78% chance of naturally overcoming infertility.

As far as sperm are concerned--heat, toxic environmental exposure and oxidation are enemies that are best avoided. The key is to be as diligent as possible with leading a healthy lifestyle, whilst implementing effective natural strategies. Here are some tips you can start implementing now:

1) Be Cool
As best as you can try to avoid overheating the testicles--boxer shorts ARE better than briefs--AND stop crossing those legs! Research shows that squashing the testes for long periods can harm nerves and temporarily impede blood flow. This can cause tingling and numbness in the entire reproductive region and lead not only to infertility but also eventually to erectile dysfunction. If your job involves sitting for long periods, be sure to get up and walk around to cool things down a little and avoid using heated car seats all together. You will definitely also need to avoid baths, spas and saunas.

2) Watch Where You Put That Thing!
The last place you should put your mobile phone is in your pocket! Sperm cells are very sensitive to radiation of any kind and your sperm parameters will negatively suffer from the exposure. In order to optimise your fertility, it is best if you and your partner can avoid and protect yourselves as much as possible from all types of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Ensuring you don't have any electric equipment in the bedroom is already a great positive start, because the hours you spend sleeping are potentially the only time in your day you are not constantly being radiated.

3) Antioxidants PLUS!
Nutrients and herbal medicines can have an amazingly nourishing and restorative effect on the body, which can be used to support healthy sperm production. However, each individual has different requirement and an assessment of your needs, as well as what other supplements or medicines you are currently taking is really important before embarking on any new supplementation. Resolving depletion or deficient states in your body can make a world of difference to optimizing your fertility!

4) Toxins Kill
Not only can toxins have a negative impact on general health, they literally kill or damage sperm to a level which renders them unable to effect a healthy conception, causing infertility and/or being a contributing factor in recurrent miscarriages. A lot of chemicals in our environment are hormonal disruptors and have a part to play. The key is to avoid chemicals in every form as much as possible from cleaning products and pest control to paints, building materials, heavy metals and more. The basic rule: Do your homework before using any new product or chemical 'solution' presented to you. And ensure to use every possible and available protection from chemicals and other toxic hazards in the workplace.

5) Clean Up Your Diet and Lifestyle
Cut out the junk food, cigarettes, alcohol, caffeine, sugar and base your meals on fresh, unprocessed, vital foods--everyday! The healthier your diet and lifestyle, the most optimum your fertility--it is that simple. Of course these are not the only factors in naturally boosting fertility; however they are vital pillars in The Natural Fertility Solution Program based on my 11 Pillars of Fertility to ensure you do everything possible to take home the healthy baby of your dreams.

Making positive changes to optimise your health will also have a remarkably positive impact on your fertility--and the benefits don't stop there! In ensuring you are doing your best you are also making a decision about your legacy in the form of your offspring. Start making consistently better choices today--your prospective child's life depends on them.

(c) 2008 Gabriela Rosa

Information about the Author:

Leading Sydney naturopath and natural fertility specialist Gabriela Rosa publishes two ezines 'Natural Fertility Booster' and 'Natural Health Booster'. If you're ready to optimise your health and fertility, get your FREE tips www.boostyourfertilitynow.com or www.boostyourhealthnow.com

Pregnancy Articles: http://www.article-buzz.com

By: LesleyLyon

When the sperm of the man gets fertilized with the eggs of woman in the reproductive system, pregnancy occurs. Childbirth occurs about 38 weeks from fertilization-more or less 40 weeks from the last menstruation. The scientific term for pregnancy is ‘gravid’ and pregnant female is referred to as ‘gravida’. The developing human during initial week is the embryo and from two months till the birth, it is known as fetus.

Generally, human pregnancy is divided into three trimester periods of different stages of pre-natal development. In the first trimester, the embryo is under the peril of mis-carriage, in the second trimester, the development is well monitored and in the third trimester, the feasibility of the fetus to survive with or without medical help is high.

Since every pregnancy is different, there are various pregnancy symptoms. Some of the prominent symptoms are missed period, nausea, tender breasts, fatigue, frequent urination or fluid retention and aches and pains.

For women who have a predictable menstrual cycle, missed period will be a clear indication of pregnancy. Another characteristic symptom of pregnancy is vomiting combined with morning sickness. Women suffering with such a symptom may suddenly experience repugnance to food and certain smells for two to eight weeks after conception.

Early in the pregnancy, a pregnant women’s breast may become tender, swollen and even painful which may be attributed to hormonal changes. Fatigue is a frequent pregnancy symptom-it could be intense even for an energetic woman-which can also be attributed to hormonal imbalance or lack of sleep. Head ache and back ache are common for pregnant women which are caused due to the stretching and thickening of the ligaments supporting the expanding uterus and they will be felt only during the second trimester. The release of the hormone.

Progesterone enables ligaments to soften and stretch around the pelvis and back which causes backache.

During pregnancy, hormones enhance the blood supply to cater to the growing fetus. This causes swelling of gums accumulation of food in the teeth, leading to tooth decay, and gum infection. Regular brushing of teeth after every meal can rectify this but taking x rays should be avoided.

Drinking lots of water and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables may help to avoid anemia or constipation, which are quite common during pregnancy. Fainting also can happen to some when the brain is deprived of adequate blood supply. Insomnia, anxiety and poor diet may cause fatigue, which can be rectified by getting good sleep. A dramatic or sudden increase in hormone level along with low blood sugar and tiredness causes morning sickness, which may subside after the first trimester.

There may be certain complications arising during pregnancy like ectopic pregnancy (embryo developing out of the uterus) anti phospho lipid syndrome (because of repeated miscarriages) low lying placenta or cervical incompetence. It is better to have periodical check ups with the Doctor to avoid complications at the time of delivery of the child.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
The web guide on pregnancy - http://www.myhealthinfo.info deals extensively with pregnancy related topics. You can find useful resources on a proper weight management during pregnancy on http://www.healthopts.com

By: LesleyLyon

Teenage pregnancy is defined as pregnancy in girls aged 19 years or less. There are a number of factors both social and personal leading to early pregnancy. The major causes of teenage pregnancy include lower educational levels and higher race of poverty. Teenage pregnancy carries a social stigma in many countries but in a developing world where teenage pregnancy is not a social stigma, it is usually within marriage. In some societies, early marriage and traditional gender roles are the main factors for teenage pregnancy. In India it is common in traditional rural communities but in Africa, it is a proof of young woman’s fertility. Adolescents may attribute another reason for teenage pregnancy to lack of knowledge to prevent pregnancy. Rape is the major factor for teenage pregnancy under age fifteen. Studies show that eleven to twenty per cent of teenage pregnancies are a direct result of rape.

In industrialized countries like UK, sex with a minor is treated as statutory rapes. But it varies with age such as in UK it is sixteen, in Italy, it is under fourteen and in Spain and Netherlands, it is under twelve.

Teenage pregnancy rates are mainly associated with poverty. Niger and Bangladesh, which are economically poor, have higher number of teen age mothers whereas rich countries like Switzerland and Japan have fewer rates. There is also a discrepancy in the age between the teen-age girl and her partner by twenty years or more. The risk of teenage pregnancy increases for women who have experienced fairly dissension in childhood, domestic violence and abuse, one third of which could be prevented. Fathers leaving their family contribute to a large extent to the cause of teenage pregnancy.

Experts opine that there are four root causes for teenage pregnancy. The first one is lack of information, the second being mixed messages about sex and relationship, third social deprivation and fourth girls’ mothers were teenage mothers.

Sex education can reduce the rate of teenage pregnancy effectively, say the experts. Better support for teenage mothers, making them return to education, support and advice and better childcare can reduce levels of teenage pregnancy. Compared to other methods, the approach by Dutch Government has been successful, that is, the curriculum lays stress on values, communication and attitudes, negotiation skills and biological aspects of reproduction. Most pregnant teenagers are subject to nutritional deficiencies and complications in pregnancy result in death.

Teenage pregnancy can affect the education of the concerned woman, since they drop out of school, which in turn affects employment and social status. There is another angle to this menace namely the psychological development of the infant. Such children are deprived of affectionate behaviors like touch, smiling, etc. from their teenage mothers.

Different kinds of prevention programs can be adopted. Some of them are abstinence program to encourage avoiding pre-marriage sexual involvement, knowledge based programs to teach adolescents about their bodies and detailed information on contraceptives. School based clinics provide easier access to information.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
The web guide on pregnancy - http://www.myhealthinfo.info deals extensively with pregnancy related topics. You can find useful resources on a proper weight management during pregnancy on http://www.healthopts.com

By: LesleyLyon

One of the most magnificent periods of a woman’s life is pregnancy, which is the time to be joyful indulging in wildest dreams with unconcealed excitements.

Whatever is eaten during pregnancy is responsible for the health of the mother and baby as well. A meager diet during pregnancy will have life long consequences on the mental as well as physical health of the child and hence a balanced healthy diet is utterly necessary. A balanced diet will free the pregnant woman from complications like heartburn and digestive disorders. It also gives vital nutrients needed during pregnancy especially during the earlier months, when the cell division is more vigorous. Daytime food should be protein rich to be easily digestible.

Balanced diet basically means a range of foods chosen from six major nutrient groups namely protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, water and minerals. A balanced diet consists of first class protein – three helpings of vitamin C foods, two helpings of Vitamin A foods, three helpings of green leafy and yellow vegetables or fruits and also other fruits and vegetables, whole grain and carbohydrates (four to five helpings), and rich foods (two helpings) and eight to ten glasses of water.

Protein is found in abundance in paneer, yogurt, milk, peas, and all kinds of nuts, beans and dhall. Carbohydrates are rich in sugar, bread, cereals, rice and potatoes. Fish oil, egg yoke, milk cheese butter and sprouts, spinach, beet roots and fruits like banana, peach and apricot contain Vitamin A. Vitamin B is found in beans, peas, Soya, sea foods, all kinds of meat, all kinds of nuts, milk, cheese, cream, etc. Citric fruits are rich in Vitamin C. Vegetables like cabbage, lettuce, carrot, and radish also contain Vitamin C but it is advisable to eat them raw because, Vitamin C gets destroyed on cooking.

All types of meat contain iron, and it is also found in eggs, spinach, cabbage and sprouts. Milk and milk products like cheese, butter, cream, all kinds of nuts, fish and egg contain calcium, which is very much needed for the bones of the growing embryo. Fats and sugar should be consumed in moderation because walnuts, sesame seeds, and even cereals contain invisible fats, which disturb the absorption of important nutrients like calcium and also put on weight. Fruits should be consumed along with the peel because the fiber lies just beneath the peel. Fiber adds mass to the diet and relieves constipation. Also a yellow or orange colored vegetable or fruit five times a week, plenty of fruit juice, water and a salt food are necessary to increase blood volume. Vitamin and folic acid supplements in the form of tablets can be taken as per the Doctor’s recommendation.

In the last trimester, calcium that is necessary for bones is released to the baby. At that time, increased dairy, soy and seaweed will be helpful. Raspberry leaf tea stimulates milk production of the pregnant mother and also softens up the cervix to prepare for the birth of the child. Therefore it can be taken during the last trimester.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
The web guide on pregnancy - http://www.myhealthinfo.info deals extensively with pregnancy related topics. You can find useful resources on a proper weight management during pregnancy on http://www.healthopts.com

By: LesleyLyon

Pregnancy is the time when every woman is motivated since she wants to do the best for herself as well as the baby. In this way, even for women who have not exercised before, pregnancy is the time to start by beginning with simple ones with stretching, relaxation, meditation and deep breathing. Thus exercises relieve simple day-to-day problems of pregnancy but precautions should be taken not to be hard and fast on exercises. Since during the first trimester, maximum number of mis-carriages take place, it is important to be extra careful and start exercising from first trimester onwards. If the pregnancy is normal and the woman can do normal activities, exercises can be carried on until the time of childbirth. Exercises should be a combination of physical and relaxation kind.

During pregnancy, a gentle way of keeping active and agile is doing yoga. The magnificent effects of yoga asanas ensure a smooth pregnancy, natural childbirth and restoration of body shape after childbirth. It also does wonders on the physical and mental development of the fetus.

Yoga has five important tools for pregnancy.

Yoga exercises: At the subtle level, exercises ensure optimum blood supply and nutrients to the developing fetus and a relatively easy childbirth.

Pranayama: This gives abundant oxygen supply to the child.

Mudras and Bandas: They have powerful effect on the reproductive organs of the woman.

Meditation: Fears conflicts and trauma, which are so common during pregnancy, can be alleviated through meditation and it also brings an inexplicable bondage between the mother and the child.

Deep relaxation: Yogic sleep is very effective for childbirth preparation as it gives mental and physical relaxation.

Following these practices gives a delightful pregnancy and a chance for the best development of the child. Yogic exercises also help in relieving fluid retention, which is quite common in the last month. It also raises the level of energy and slows down the metabolism to restore calm. Pranayama also reduces nausea and mood swings quite prevalent during the first trimester. Even in postnatal care, yoga exercises restore the uterus abdomen and pelvic floor, relieving back tension and breast discomfort.

Women who have had frequent mis-carriages and bleeding during pregnancy and who have twins or low birth weight babies are advised not to exercise. Women with frequent backache feel relieved after exercises. Of all the exercises, walking for twenty to thirty minutes is the easiest and the best because it makes the blood flows right down evenly. But exercises need to be supervised and done in a controlled manner during pregnancy.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
The web guide on pregnancy - http://www.myhealthinfo.info deals extensively with pregnancy related topics. You can find useful resources on a proper weight management during pregnancy on http://www.healthopts.com

By: LesleyLyon

The foremost objective throughout the pregnancy should be to stay robust and healthy for the growth and development of the baby and the mother. The pregnancy period (Latin word meaning three months) is divided into three divisions of three months each, the first, second, and third trimesters covering 40 weeks of gestation period.

The first trimester is the term of pregnancy from conception to 12 weeks that is invariably marked by nausea, increased fatigue, and vomiting and high emotional compassion due to hormonal changes.

For the baby, which is called an embryo at this stage, the heart lungs and brain begin to develop and the heart will beat by the 25th day. During the second month, the embryo now called the fetus develops limbs, stomach liver, brain, spine and the central nervous system. By the end o f first trimester i.e. during the 3rd month of pregnancy the baby is about 3”in length and baby’s sex is determined. Facial features are well developed and the baby moves its legs and head. There will be a weight gain of 3 to 4 pounds for the mother.

The various “gifts” of pregnancy during the first trimester are food aversion and changes, heartburn and indigestion, complex change, frequent urination, constipation and dizziness. Such problems can be mitigated through changes in habits, nutritive diet, light exercises, taking sufficient rest and drinking ample water.

Pregnancy period from 13th to 27th week is the second trimester. The nausea and fatigue that was prevalent during the first trimester will subside and the baby grows fast showing movements of the limbs. The umbilical cord that carries oxygen and nourishment to the foetus thickens. For the healthy growth of the baby light exercises nutritious food and good personal hygiene are essential.

During the fourth month the baby is about 6 ounces in weight grows rapidly about 8 to 10 inches long. By the end of the 5th month, the physician can hear the baby’s heartbeat. Sounds from outside the uterus will be audible and the baby responds to sound and music. During the sixth month except for the fat under the skin, the baby is fully formed but weighs only about 11/2 pounds. The baby sucks the thumb and can open the eyelids and at this time, brain tissue also increases.

The period from the 28th week of pregnancy till the childbirth is the third trimester. The baby continues to grow in size and shows changes in physical appearance. Adequate oxygen supply should be provided to the fetus through deep breathing. Precautions should be taken against lifting of heavy weights and standing for a long time and taking care has to be taken in eating timely and regular balanced diet and doing mild exercises like walking. During the seventh month the baby kicks and stretches and changes its position, which can be felt by the mother. It is natural to have swelling of the feet. By eighth month the baby’s face becomes smooth resembling that of a newborn and continues to put on weight. During ninth month the baby’s weight gain is about ½ pound per week. At 40 weeks it is full term. The baby settles further down the mother’s pelvis and it is still growing and moving but has less room to move about. Since one pound of weight gain per week is essential for the mother during this period, 300 extra calories day, prenatal vitamins, at least eight glasses of water and 1000mg of calcium should be taken. The immune system of the baby is not yet mature and therefore it continues to take antibodies of the mother through the placenta.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
The web guide on pregnancy - http://www.myhealthinfo.info deals extensively with pregnancy related topics. You can find useful resources on a proper weight management during pregnancy on http://www.healthopts.com

Why Pregnant Women Find A Great Friend In A Donut Pillow
By: Muna Wanjiru

A donut pillow is especially created and shaped so as to come to the help of those people who suffer from a tail-bone affection, or who, for some reason cannot properly sit in a vertical position. Hemorrhoids, surgery, tail bone injury and even colon problems can prevent one from sitting because of the hard to bear pain. A donut pillow is firm and shaped like a torus with an empty space left right in the middle, so as to minimize the pressure in the area. The name of such medical pillows is also very suggestive for the shape of the object, as it pretty much resembles a donut.

Thanks to the empty space in the middle or the so-called carved area, one may sit without making the coccyx bear all the body weight; a donut pillow can be placed anywhere one needs to sit, from a chair to the coach. The prices for various sizes are more than accessible; these pillows are actually manufactured for medical purposes and they target anyone, regardless of the financial status. Furthermore, depending on your weight, you could choose between small, medium or large models, most of them made of polyurethane foam.

Pregnant women also find a great friend in a donut pillow as this great item distributes body weight evenly, and there is not too much pressure on the bones in the coccyx area. You will definitely sit more safely and comfortably without being bothered by the slightest pain. A donut pillow is usually made of one single piece of molded foam, which is necessarily wrapped in cotton or polyester dressing that is easily washable. Furthermore, in case you suffer from a chronic problem that troubles you on a regular basis, the donut pillow is likely to last for a pretty long time, as the design covers long-term durability too.

A ring shaped donut pillow will anatomically fit your body, and enhance comfort for any seating surface. Have a look at what such pillows look like on the many web pages that promote such products. Between cotton and polyester dressings, the former are definitely preferable during the hot season, as they prevent sweating, whereas the latter are more difficult to use in summer time as the synthetic texture of the material creates a more difficult to tolerate contact surface with the body. Nevertheless, dressings or casings can be changed or alternated if it ever be the case.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Muna wa Wanjiru Has Been Researching and Reporting on Pillows for Years. For More Information on Donut Pillow, Visit His Site at DONUT PILLOW

Pregnancy Advice on Foods and Supplementation
By: lambpie

Throughout the course of your pregnancy your body has a demand for a larger volume of essential nutrients. In the following article we will details some of the most commonly used supplements taken during pregnancy and also detail foods you should avoid.

1. Folic acid – Folic acid is found in the B group of vitamins and can be found in many foods. Foods that are high in Folic acid include many fruits including Papaya and Kiwi fruit. Additionally vegetables such as Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Spinach and Cabbage are also good sources of Folic acid.

Taking Folic acid whilst pregnant has been shown to protect your unborn baby from neural tube defects such as Spina Bifida. A babies spine develops early in pregnancy and as such folic acid should be taken as soon as contraception stops and up to the 12th week of pregnancy.

2. Iron – During your pregnancy ensure you are eating plenty of iron rich foods. Good sources of iron include red meat, bread, green vegetables and many breakfast cereals. Be aware that whilst liver contains large amounts of iron it should be avoided whilst you are pregnant.

3. Vitamin D – Our primary source of vitamin D is sunlight. Be careful not to burn but try to spend some time outside. If this isn’t possible you may be short of vitamin D and may need to see your GP.

Foods to avoid during your pregnancy.

1. Vitamin A – During your pregnancy ensure that you don’t have too much vitamin A in your diet as this can harm your baby. Avoid foods containing liver such as pate and also check with your GP before taking multi vitamins or cod liver oil supplements.

2. Some fish – whilst fish is generally good for us there are certain fish types that should be avoided during your pregnancy. Restrict Tuna and avoid Shark, Swordfish, Marlin and Shellfish.

3. Foods that may contain Listeria – such as soft and blue veined cheeses, pate, potato salad and coleslaw and also ready meals should be avoided.

4. Foods that may contain Salmonella – Such as raw eggs, unpasteuised milk, raw poultry and raw meat.

5. Toxoplasmosis – This is an infection caused by a parasite in cat faeces which can also be present in undercooked meats and unwashed fruit and vegetables. Ensure meats are well cooked and fruit and vegetables are thoroughly washed.

6. Caffeine – Caffeine affects the way your body absorbs iron and should subsequently be limited or avoided completed. High caffeine levels can result in a baby having a low birth weight or worse cause a miscarriage. Ensure that your caffeine intake is no more than 300mg a day which is equivalent to three mugs of instant coffee.

7. Alcohol – During your pregnancy you should avoid alcohol. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause a variety of problem including low birth weights and birth defects.

The above is a simplistic guide to the most common food types, if you have concerns about particular foods or supplements during your pregnancy visit your GP for detailed advice.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
This article has been produced by Emma’s Diary, your complete online pregnancy advice and information resource.

How To Plan A Baby Shower Without Breaking The Bank
By: Madonna Lee

Everyone feels happy and joyous when a close friend or relative announces that she is expecting a baby. Even though somewhere in the world, a baby is born literally every second, the fact that someone you know is expecting a child is very special news. For some expectant women this may be the most exciting thing that is ever going to happen to them. Some people spend years trying to fall pregnant so the occasion for them can be overwhelmingly emotional. Whatever the circumstances this news is a great reason for a celebration and this is usually in the form of a baby shower.

The baby shower event is traditionally the occasion where friends and relatives get together to celebrate the impending arrival and to share some tips and give presents that the parents-to-be will find useful for their baby.

Generally, the planning of the baby shower is entrusted to the best friend or sister of the mum-to-be and for these ladies here are some great tips on how to plan a baby shower that is successful and enjoyed by all guests.

How To Plan A Baby Shower With The Minimum Of Resources

First off the baby shower party needs to be a fun-filled occasion where everybody laughs and has heaps of fun. The guests need to be able to spend a little bit of time to congratulate the mother-to-be on the wonderful news. What it does need not to be, however, is a drain on resources – particular money.

If you are the planner of the event then the first item on your agenda is to put together a guest list. This is best done in consultation with the mother-to-be to ensure no one important to her is left off the list. Once you have the list (which ideally should, for logistical reasons not exceed 30 guests), you then need to send out the baby shower invitation cards.

Rather than rush out and buy ready made cards why not get on to your computer and create some beautiful individual and unique invitation cards. As a suggestion you could scan and add a photo of the mother-to-be for that special touch. Remember to include all the required information for example date, time, venue, name of the host, RSVP as well as contact details.

The next step is to make a list with details about decorations, food, designing tips, cards for the mother-to-be and so on. Ideally decorations could be handmade and as much as possible reflect the sex of the baby. If the baby’s sex is not yet known you could use a combination of pinks and blues in the decorations. Always hang plenty of balloons and ribbons and have pretty flowers arrangements to create the party atmosphere and magical ambiance.

As for the food why not get all the guests to show off their baking prowess and arrange to have them bake, cakes, muffins, tarts, slices and biscuits. This is an inexpensive way for everyone of the guests to contribute to the cost of the occasion. Generally it is not necessary to provide the guests alcoholic drinks at baby shower parties but you could make a mildly alcoholic fruit punch for everyone to enjoy.

Don’t forget with a little bit of ingenuity and care you could work out how to plan a baby shower at minimal cost without compromising in any way on the fun of the occasion and the enjoyment of all the guests and the mum-to-be. So get your creative thinking cap on and have some fun.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
For innovative ideas on how to plan a baby shower on a budget visit Baby Shower Events.

By: Steve Mallard

Breastfeeding has many advantages for both the baby and the mother. There are many substances in breast milk that can’t be found in cow’s milk. More so, there are fewer complications associated with breast milk than with cow’s milk.

It has been advertised time and again that it is best for the babies if they are breastfed for the first six months even up to two years. So why is breast milk so beneficial for the baby? First of all, only breast milk contains colostrums which are essential for the baby to take. Commercially-made milks cannot simulate the colostrums made by a mother. The colostrums contain natural antibodies and immune globulins that are responsible for keeping the baby free from illness for the first few months of its life.

Another advantage breast milk has over cow’s milk is that it allows the mother to save as cow’s milk can be expensive. The baby can better adapt to breast milk. Their feces are not smelly and they don’t have any difficulty defecating compared to cow’s milk. Breastfeeding has also been approved to be one of the family planning methods that a family can observe.

Since breastfeeding has been given so much importance, many women have been made aware. However, despite the awareness, many mothers still report of breast problems associated with lactation. These problems are most often than not, associated with improper breast feeding techniques. In order to lower down the incidence of breast related problems due to lactation, it is important that mothers observe the proper techniques of breast feeding. Ultimately, both the mother as well as the baby will benefit from the proper observance of these techniques.

First of all, you need to prepare your breast for milk-production. There are various nipple exercises to perform in order to prepare your nipple to deliver the breast milk to your baby. One of these exercises would involve routinely pinching the nipple.

Second and what most mothers fail to realize is how to keep the nipple clean before the baby latches on to it for feeding. When you plan to breast feed, you should avoid using soap on your nipple. If this cannot be avoided, your nipple should be wiped using a soft cloth soaked in clean water to make sure your nipple is clean before your baby feeds from it.

Third and perhaps the most important step is to allow your baby to properly latch on to your nipple. You will know when your baby is latched on properly when your baby’s mouth covers the entire areola and not just the nipples. It is essential that your baby should latch on properly so that he or she can properly stimulate the “let-down reflex” of your breasts wherein the milk will go down the ducts and out your nipple.

To aid your baby in latching on properly, you should make use of their rooting reflex. This is manifested in the first few months of life. You stimulate your baby’s cheek, near their mouth using your nipple and their head will automatically turn towards the stimulation. Their mouth will open and be ready for receiving your nipple. Once you’re done, you can aid your baby to stop latching on by inserting a clean pinky finger into the side of their mouth and propping it slightly open. Your baby will stop sucking and you can remove your nipple.

To prevent sore nipples and breast engorgement you have to monitor the amount of time your baby sucks with each nipple. It is usually advisable to spend 10-15 minutes each breast to make sure that the breasts are completely emptied of milk. This will prevent breast engorgement. The next time your baby feeds on your breast, let your baby feed from the last breast he or she fed on. This will completely empty the milk on that breast before you move on to the other breast.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Written by Janice Mallard M.D, expert on Breast Feeding and Pregnancy Symptoms.
Tags: home-and-family, pregnancy, breast feeding tips, pregnancy symptoms, breastfeeding guidelines, baby feeding

Diet, Lifestyle Changes Cut Some Infertility Risk
By: Angela Lipsick

Women who followed at least five certain lifestyle and diet behaviors were about 80 percent less likely to have infertility from ovulatory disorders than women who followed none of the behaviors, a Harvard study concludes.

The analysis of 17,544 married women participating in the ongoing Nurses' Health Study II found those with the highest fertility scores: ate less trans fat and sugar from carbohydrates; consumed more protein from vegetables than from animals; ate more fiber and iron; took more multivitamins; had a lower body mass index (BMI); exercised for longer periods of time each day; and consumed more high-fat diary products and less low-fat diary products.

The relationship between these behaviors and reduced risk of infertility was similar for women regardless of age and whether they'd been pregnant in the past, said the Harvard School of Public Health authors of the study, which was published in the Nov. 1 issue of the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology.

"We analyzed what happens if you follow one, two, three, four, or more different factors. What we found was that, as women started following more of these recommendations, their risk of infertility dropped substantially for every one of the dietary and lifestyle strategies undertaken. In fact, we found a sixfold difference in ovulatory infertility risk between women following five or more low-risk dietary and lifestyle habits and those following none," lead author Jorge Chavarro, a research fellow in the school's department of nutrition, said in a prepared statement.

"The key message of this paper is that making the right dietary choices and including the right amount of physical activity in your daily life may make a large difference in your probability of becoming fertile if you are experiencing problems with ovulation," senior author Walter Willett, chair of the department of nutrition, added.

According to the researchers, infertility affects one in six couples, in the U.S. and Europe and ovulatory problems have been identified in up to 30 percent of those cases.

increase fertility with diet go to the site for more complete info on infertility and diet, getting pregnant faster.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
angela lipsick http://how-to-get-pregnant-now.com increase fertility with diet go to the site for more complete info on infertility and diet, getting pregnant faster.

Healthy Way to Shed Weight After Pregnancy | Post Pregnancy Weight Loss
By: Ellena Boss

The very first thing to remember is that it took 9 full months for us to put on pounds, losing it quickly is not doable. yes we all wish differently, but the very important thing to remember is to shed pounds the healthy ways!

The very important thing is that both of yours (baby and your) health is well and the pounds will come off. If you are nursing, you have to take a great care with any diets. Actually, the only thing you can try to lose pounds is avoid junk food and supplement it with fruits and vegetables. If you are nursing, and are deciding to go on any diet, it is very important to talk to dietary consultant because you need to make sure both you and your little one are getting enough nutrition.

I was advised to begin exercising 2 months after I had my second child. But I pushed too fast and my joints were hurting, so take it easy! Second, pump in as much of vitamins into your body, since your body still needs to recover. It normally takes around 9 mo. to a year for full recovery. For me, in my third month after the delivery, I started losing a lot of hair, so proper nutrition is a must. Never let your health in at risk, because of few extra pound. They will come off!

When you recover enough, I urge you avoid any extreme diets. Staying hungry will actually make you lose less pounds, because your metabolism slows down a lot when you are starving. Because of it, it burns less calories. In addition your energy level will reduce as well, and you have to have the energy to take care of your little one. What you need to find out is which food is good to eat, that also burns more calories. In the mean time you have to learn which foods to avoid. If it is a low fat, may not mean it is not fattening.

In my research to find healthy ways to losing pregnancy pounds, I came across a guide that was designed for all women pounds loss, not only for losing weight after pregnancy! However, what surprised me was the fact that this eBook, actually explained which foods had to be avoided at all times. I lost the pounds fast, I also learned a lot more about nutrition. Now, my whole family has a better lifestyle. The best part was that it was all a healthy way to lose weight after my pregnancy, and I was able to keep it off!




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
As a full time employed mother, taking care of my kids, while eating healthy food and exercising is difficult! But learning about nutritions has enhanced our lives!

The Best Way to Lose Weight After Pregnancy | Post Pregnancy Weight Loss
By: Ellena Boss

The most important first thing to keep in mind is that it took nine full months for us to put on weight, losing it over night is not possible. yes we all wish differently, but the most important thing to keep in mind is to lose weight the healthy ways!

The most important thing is that both of yours (baby and your) health is well and the weight will come off. If you are breast feeding, you should take a great care with any nutrition. Actually, the only way you can try to lose weight is avoid junk food and supplement it with vitamins loaded food. If you are breastfeeding, and are deciding to go on any diet, it is necessary to talk to nutritional specialist since you need to make sure both you and your baby are getting required nutrition.

I was advised to start exercising 2 months after I had my daughter. However I started too fast and my joints were hurting, so take it easy! Additionally, take in as much of nutrition into your body, since your body still has to to recover. On Average takes around nine months to a year for complete recuperation. Personally, in my third month after having a baby, I was losing a lot of hair, so proper nutrition is a must. Do not let your health in at risk, because of few extra pound. They will come off!

When you recuperate enough, I urge you avoid any extreme diets. Staying hungry will most likely make you lose less weight, since your metabolism slows down a lot when you are starving. In addition, it burns less calories. In addition your energy level will reduce as well, and you need the energy to take care of your baby. So you need to find out is which food is healthy to eat, that also burns more calories. In the mean time you have to learn which foods to avoid. If it is a low fat, it does not mean it is not fattening.

In my search to discover the best ways to shedding pregnancy weight, I I found a guide that was written for all women weight loss, not only for losing weight after pregnancy! However, what intrigued me was the fact that this eBook, actually explained which foods had to be avoided at all times. I lost the weight fast, I also learned a lot more about nutrition. Now, my entire family has a healthier lifestyle. The best part was that it was all a healthy way to lose weight after my pregnancy, and I was able to keep it off!




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
As a full time working mom, taking care of my children, while cooking healthy meals and exercising is not easy! But learning about nutritions has enhanced our lives!

By: Robin

Eating a variety of foods from all of the food groups is the best way to ensure you are getting the calories and nutrients you need. The USDA's Food Guide Pyramid is a good guideline for pregnant women; it ensures you consume the following minimum number of servings in each food group (about 2,500 calories):

9 servings from the bread, cereal, rice, and pasta group. Examples of a single serving from this group include a slice of whole-wheat bread, 1/2 cup cooked cereal, half a bagel, or 1/2 cup of pasta. Be sure to include whole­grain and whole-wheat starches as well as other starches higher in fiber.

4 servings from the vegetable group. Examples of a single serving from this group include 1 cup of raw leafy vegetables, 1/2 cup of other vegetables, raw or cooked, or 3/4 cup vegetable juice. Choose a variety of vegetables-the darker the color, the more nutrients a vegetable has.

3 servings from the fruit group. Examples of a single serving from this group include a medium apple, a small banana, a small orange, 1/2 cup chopped fruit, or 3/4 cup fruit juice. Choose a variety of fruits daily, as raw fruits are higher in fiber than juices.

3-4 servings from the milk, yogurt, and cheese group. Examples of a single serving from this group include 1 cup of milk or yogurt, 1.5 ounces natural cheese, or 2 ounces processed cheese. Use fat-free or low-fat milk, nonfat or low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cheese.

6-7 ounces (2-3 servings) from the meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs, and nuts group. Examples of a single serving from this group include 3 ounces poultry, fish, or lean meat; 1 ounce meat = 1/2 cup cooked dried beans, a whole egg, 1/2 cup tofu, 1/3 cup nuts, or 2 tablespoons peanut butter. Choose lean meats and trim fat from meat before cooking. With poultry, remove skin. Include cooked dry beans often as the main dish in meals.

A common pitfall to the healthy diet is skipping breakfast. When you skip breakfast, you are forcing your body to go ten to twelve hours without food-and going that long without nourishing your baby. When you are famished, it is easy to choose the wrong foods and eat too much of them, so skipping breakfast may cause you to eat more calories than you intended.

Carving Up the Calories

The calories in all the healthy foods that make up the USDA Food Guide Pyramid are made up of three basic nutrients: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. These three nutrients are known as the macronutrients because we need them in larger amounts. Even though each macronutrient has a particular function in the body, they work together in partnership for good health and for a healthy pregnancy. During pregnancy, the required amounts of some of these nutrients change only slightly.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
For more Pregnancy tips. Check out the digital vaporizer and health doctor information

By: Robin

You now have your nutritional intake on track, but there are plenty of other factors to consider before you become pregnant. You have a lot to think about, including your health-care provider, fertility, lifestyle changes, current health problems, and family history. Planning ahead and being prepared can be the formula for a less complicated and safer pregnancy.

If you are currently being treated for a chronic health problem such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, systemic lupus, seizure disorder, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, heart problems, migraines, or any other condition, you should speak with your doctor before you try to conceive to understand how your health could affect your pregnancy. Your doctor may need to refer you to a specialist and/or change or eliminate certain medications to reduce any possible risk to the fetus. You may have to be much more vigilant about managing your condition and make sure your condition is well under control before you become pregnant.

In addition, you should ensure that all regular medical screening is up to date before you try to conceive. This may include annual pap smears, mammograms (for women over thirty-five), cholesterol screening, and diabetic screening. This should include your partner also. Making sure you are both healthy before you try to conceive can increase your chances of becoming pregnant.

Your Family History

Some conditions or diseases are genetic, recurring throughout some family histories. Examples include hemophilia (a blood disorder), sickle-cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, thalassemia (or Cooley's anemia), celiac disease, Gaucher disease, Canavan disease, Niemann-Pick disease, and some birth defects. If you or your partner has a family history of a significant genetic disorder, and you suspect that either of you may be a carrier, then genetic testing may be advised. A carrier does not necessarily have the disorder but does carry a gene that could be passed on to the next generation. You should discuss your concerns with your doctor or health-care provider before you get pregnant.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
For more Pregnancy tips. Check out the digital vaporizer and health doctor information

By: Richard Corcoran

Some women enjoy the thought of being pregnant. Others fear it. But are there common symptoms that can help a women to determine early on if she's pregnant?

Pregnancy symptoms differ from woman to woman. Some women experience symptoms of pregnancy within as little time as a week of conception. Others experience no pregnancy symptoms at all until they begin to show the "baby bump." Still others may experience different pregnancy symptoms when pregnant with different children.

If you experience some of the very early pregnancy symptoms listed below and believe that you may be pregnant, you should do a home pregnancy test. If you are still in doubt, arrange with your doctor or pregnancy help clinic to have a pregnancy test. The reason why this is important is that if you are pregnant and have bad lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking, or even taking prescription drugs - you could be inadvertently harming the developing fetus in your body.

Here are 5 common symptoms that might indicate pregnancy:

1. You just missed your normal menstrual period.

This is number one on the list of indicators that are a warning sign that you may be pregnant. It's true that just because you missed a period does not necessarily mean that you're pregnant. There are many other reasons that could cause you to miss a period, such as - fasting, extreme amounts of exercising, prescribed or non-prescribed medications, eating disorders, chronic illnesses, and many more. Nevertheless, if your menstrual period is normally pretty consistent and like clockwork, and it doesn't appear on schedule - this is a red flag and you should consider taking a pregnancy test.

2. Your breasts have become amazingly sensitive.

Tender or swollen breasts sometimes occur just before a period. But these all also signs that conception has taken place and that you could be pregnant. If your breast are swollen beyond normal this is a sign that the body is preparing itself to produce milk. Many women report that they discovered they were pregnant when their breasts became so sensitive that even the slightest brush against them hurts. Others described it as a tingling sensation

3. Heightened sensitivity to smells.

When a woman is in the early stages of pregnancy, she may notice that she is becoming hypersensitive to smells of all types - but especially foods. aromas - foods and others. In fact, you may become so hypersensitive to the smell of certain foods that they cause an involuntary gag reflex or bring about a feeling of nausea. You may also find yourself having an aversion to what were formerly your favorite foods, because of the smell.

4. Excessive bloating.

Bloating can be an indication that you're pregnant. The problem is hormones. When conception occurs, the hormone progesterone floods your system. As the increased progesterone envelopes your body it slows down your digestive processes and leads to gas and bloating.

5. Dizziness.

Are you all of a sudden having periods of dizziness? Once conception takes place, the developing embryo will need food. This food will be drawn from your body. Specifically, it will use the blood sugar from your body as fuel to grow. If you aren't eating enough, this can lead to your feeling faint because of low blood sugar.

Any or all of these symptoms does not mean that you are pregnant. Each of them could be caused by other factors as well. But they are all symptoms that are common in women that have become newly pregnant.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Richard Corcoran is senior writer for http://www.fertilitycausestreatments.com which specializes in providing information on fertility and first signs of pregnancy problems that couples may be experiencing.

Packing your hospital bag – What do you need for a hospital birth?
By: Kate Pryse-Lloyd

When to pack your hospital bag?

Hospital bags are often left to the last minute, as there are so many other preparations required for a new baby. At the end of 36 weeks your baby is full-term so could arrive at any time, this is when you should have your hospital bag packed, if you have not already done so.

Where to start?

Do not panic. We have compiled a list of essential items for your birth bag; this list is a culmination of midwives' suggestions and mothers' feedback over the last 2 years. Do not forget that partners love to be involved. You could delegate some, or all, of the task of putting your hospital bag together while you relax in preparation for the big day.

What to pack in your hospital bag?
Some people pack a whole suitcase for their hospital births and a few are unprepared and just manage to bring themselves. This list covers the essential items you should take to support your hospital birth and why. There is also list of suggested luxury items afterwards which mothers have found comforting and relaxing to have with them in hospital:

Essential Hospital Birth Bag Items
During Labour

* Sponge For cooling mother during labour

* Lip Balm Thirsty work can leave you with dry lips

* Bendy straws Makes it easier to drink from glasses or cups if you are focussed on labour

* Hair band To keep hair out of your face

* Tissues There won’t be a dry eye when your baby arrives

* T-shirt/Spare top Useful for either the mum or the birth partner if their top gets soiled or
wet during the birth.

After Labour

* Nursing Pads Useful whether you choose to breastfeed or not

* Flannel Soaked in warm water and placed on your perineum after the birth to relieve soreness

* Pants Either cotton or disposable pants which you are willing to throw away after use

* Maternity Towels

* Absorbent Mat (you can also buy disposable changing mats instead)
Great for protecting the bed, chairs, car seat. Useful for when waters have broken and also to use in the first 48 hours after childbirth.

Wash Bag

* Toothbrush

* Toothpaste

* Shampoo / Conditioner

* Body wash

* Hairbrush

* Deodorant


Baby Bag


* Baby grow

* Newborn nappies

* Baby hat and mittens

* Hooded baby towel
For wrapping up your baby when it’s first born

* Cotton buds or wet wipes

Luxury Hospital Birth Bag Items
Home from Home

* Night dress Which does up at the front so you can breast feed your baby easily

* Dressing gown

* Slippers

Relaxation

* Massage oil and massager

* Lavender oil Lavender promotes relaxation and is a popular choice of oil for use in labour. It can be added to massage oil, or to water and sprayed around the room

* Music and music player To create a calm ambience for you to labour and give birth in


And finally...
Don’t forget to put your baby seat in the car so that you can take your new baby home safely and start enjoying the new addition to your family.




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Kate Pryse-Lloyd is co-founder of the company Hello Baby. She has been providing services and products to aid childbirth since 2006 and actively promotes women's choice in childbirth.
Tags: pregnancy, hospital bag, hospital bags, hospital birth, packing your hospital bag, what to take to hospital, birth bag, birth bags, hospital births

By: Marie Castell

By preparing early you can give both yourself and your baby the very best chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Before getting pregnant, think about whether there are any family or hereditary medical conditions that need to be considered.

If you and your partner have been using any form of contraception you will obviously need to stop!

There is a great likelihood of conceiving if you have intercourse around 5 days before you ovulate. Many doctors advise having sex 2-3 times a week throughout your cycle to stand the best chance of conception.

Both potential moms and dads should take extra care of their diet and lifestyle when they are considering having a baby.

If either or both of are smoking or drinking, it would be a great idea to cease altogether or at the very least cut it down drastically.

You must also improve your diet. It is important to build up a good store of vitamins and minerals before you get pregnant.

You need folate. Women are often advised to take 400 micrograms of folic acid supplements from twelve weeks pre-pregnancy until twelve weeks into the pregnancy. Folic acid is also found in dark leafy green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli as well as oranges and enriched breakfast cereals and wholemeal bread.

Even if you are not yet pregnant, you still have a risk of high blood pressure and diabetes if you are overweight. So, try to lose excess weight carefully by following a calorie-controlled diet and getting some exercise regularly.

Also be mindful of stress. It can be detrimental to both you and your baby as it can cause high blood pressure and even spontaneous labour in some cases.

Although there is a lot of conflicting advice about how much caffeine is safe, it is generally believed that moderate consumption is fine. You may want to cut down if you drink a lot of coffee or other caffeine- rich drinks, especially in the early weeks of your pregnancy.

Unfortunately some working environments can lead to fertility problems or even pose a risk to the developing baby. Workplaces that may be a risk include those that work with some chemicals, X-rays, lead and anaesthetic gases. You must be wary of these environments.

Finally, if you think carefully about the new life you will be bringing into the world, and make the necessary changes to your lifestyle and diet, then at least you know you are giving your longed-for baby the very best chances of developing into a healthy human being.

And you can enjoy your pregnancy in the knowledge that you have done your very best. Enjoy your precious nine months!




Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Marie Castell is a free lance writer and editor who loves to educate people in many different topics. She also writes for the Pregnancy Notebook Website and the Pregnancy Notebook Blog Site. If you want more pregnancy information, you can visit www.pregnancynotebook.com to read more tips.
Tags: home-and-family, pregnancy, pregnancy tips, pregnancy

Headaches During Pregnancy, Are They Normal. Do You Know How To Ease Your Pregnancy Headaches?
By: Hannah Bajor. C.N.M.,M.S.N. Pregnancy Success & Health Coach

Headaches during pregnancy are very challenging as over the counter pain killers are not recommended. Read on to see what you can do to relieve the pain from your headaches during pregnancy.

First of all let’s address why some pregnant women suffer from headaches during pregnancy. Within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy the surging hormones play a part in the development of pregnancy headaches. The 40% increase in blood volume that occurs during pregnancy increases pressure within the blood vessels and this itself can cause pregnancy headaches. Headaches during the last month of pregnancy may also be caused by a condition called pre eclampsia, which is associated with high blood pressure, swelling and protein in the urine.

It is normal to have headaches during pregnancy because of the above reasons plus the following:
Stress
Lack of sleep
Vomiting
Low blood sugar
Dehydration
Caffeine withdrawal
Nicotine withdrawal
Poor posture
Pregnancy related vision changes

What you can do to ease your pregnancy headaches:

Reduce stress.
Get more sleep.
Treat your early morning sickness.
Eat regularly to avoid low blood sugar levels.
Drink adequate amounts of high quality water.
Get chiropractic adjustments and advice to correct your posture.
Avoid over the counter medication especially during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Consult a homeopath or an acupuncturist for treatments to relieve your pain.
Pregnancy headaches are sometimes relieved with either hot or cold compress around your forehead and on the back of your neck.
Have someone massage your shoulders and neck during acute pregnancy headaches.
Rest in a dark room and practice deep relaxation breathing.
Relaxing in a warm bath or shower sometimes reduces the stress and tension.
The fruit mangosteen is well known to support every system in the body. It is all natural and can relieve and prevent pregnancy headaches.

You tried all the above and you still have a pregnancy headache:

At this point it would be appropriate to call your doctor or midwife for advice.
Have your eyesight checked as you may need glasses or a change in glasses.

If you experience any of these symptoms below with a headache call your physician or midwife immediately as these are signs of a severe pregnancy complication called pre-eclampsia:
Blurred vision
Right sided abdomen pain
Swollen hands and face
Sudden weight gain
Feeling very agitated or restless

Pregnancy headaches can be very painful and very frustrating, as it is not recommended that you use over the counter medication during pregnancy. I have assisted pregnant women in the past to make their headaches a little more manageable or made them go away with a one on one coaching-healing phone sessions.

Many of my pregnant clients have experienced improvement of their pregnancy headaches by taking mangosteen juice. Wondering where to get more information about a high quality mangosteen and mineral product? Mangosteen is present in different quantities in different products. For a high quality mangosteen products look up great minerals for pregnancy.





Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Download absolutely FREE an AMAZING MESSAGE From A 7 Week Old Baby To Humanity. Click COOL PREGNANCY MESSAGE

Learn how an energetic healing can help you during your pregnancy click PREGNANCY HEADACHE HEALING!

Great Pregnancy Coaching http://www.PregnancySuccessCoach.com