Checklist: Before Your Baby Arrives

As you get ready for your baby's arrival, you may feel that you need to know everything there is to know about parenting. Try not to overload yourself with too much information. Before your baby is born, learn what to expect during your baby's first three months. Visit your local library or bookstore and explore this site for more information.

The following checklist will help you be better prepared for your baby's arrival:

1. Look into parenting classes - they can be very helpful for first-time parents. Find out about these classes from the hospital where you plan to have your baby, your OB/GYN, friends and family.

2. Learn about labor and delivery options such as Lamaze and Bradley.

3. Choose a pediatrician. About 3 months before you're due, start compiling a list of candidates. Ask for names of pediatricians from friends, relatives, neighbors, and coworkers with kids, and even your obstetrician, midwife, or insurance company. If possible, schedule a prenatal consultation about two months before your due date.

4. Prepare a telephone or email list to keep friends and family informed.

5. Pack your suitcase for the hospital. Remember to take along:

• Nightgown and slippers.
  
• Toiletries, including toothbrush and hairbrush. Don't forget supplies for dad (perhaps even a change of clothes!).
  
• Clothes for your return home: choose comfortable clothes you wore mid-pregnancy or later.
  
• Clothes for your baby to wear when coming home: undershirt or onesie, and an outfit with snap closures.
  
• Receiving blanket (your local weather will determine if additional blankets are needed).
  
• Baby wipes.
  
• Camera / video camera.
  
• Nursing bra and nursing pads for breastfeeding moms.
  
• Optional : Make sure your baby's car seat has been installed properly before you go to the hospital. Some hospitals will not allow you to take your baby home without a car seat. Many police precincts will be happy to inspect your seat to ensure that it has been installed properly.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding - Tips for a Balanced Diet

Author: Stuart Hutchings

The most critical thing about dietary requirements during pregnancy is that you should start to consider these BEFORE conception. Critical development of your baby starts at conception. Eating well before pregnancy will give your body a good store of nutrients for your baby to draw on during pregnancy.

The objective is to ensure that your body has all of the nutrients it needs for optimum health. It is important to eat from all of the main food groups as no single food can provide all of the essential nutrients that the body needs. This is why the need for a ‘balanced’ diet is often emphasised.

There are two areas to consider:

1. Getting the appropriate amount of calories, a balance between the calories that you eat and the calories that you burn.



2. Consuming a combination of various essential nutrients in the correct proportions, this will lead to good nutrition.

These essential nutrients are grouped as follows:

· Carbohydrates

· Fats

· Fibre

· Minerals

· Protein

· Vitamins

· Water

Obtaining a balance of these nutrients means eating a variety of foods from all of the five basic food groups in the correct proportions, no single food can provide all of the essential nutrients that the body needs. The western diet today tends to have too much fat and too little fibre for some a small shift can mean a major health benefit.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) uses the commonly accepted food groups to describe a healthy diet:

· Bread, potatoes and other cereals

· Fruit and vegetables

· Milk and dairy products

· Meat, fish and alternatives

· Foods containing fats; foods and drinks containing sugars

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) describes these dietary guidelines through its new food pyramid; MyPyramid. It’s food grouping is fairly similar, although broadly speaking the fruit and vegetables is spilt into two groups instead of one.

Whichever way these groups are split, eliminating one food group from your diet could risk developing a nutrient imbalance and deficiencies.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provide dietary guidelines that describe a healthy diet as one that:

• Emphasises fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low fat milk and milk products


• Includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts


• Is low in saturated fats, transfats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars
  

Recommendations are very similar from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK.

During pregnancy your requirements for calories and nutrients change, the requirements for nutrients double but the calorific need only increases 15% so it is important to make sure that what you eat counts!

Key tips:

· A good variety of food intake

· Plenty of fruits, grains and vegetables

· Ensure EFA levels are adequate

· Drink at least 6 – 8 glasses of water a day

· Reduce fat intake, especially saturated and trans fatty acids

· Reduce sugar intake

· Reduce salt intake

· Eliminate alcohol, smoking and drugs

Vegans and vegetarians do not need to worry as long as their diets are well-balanced; careful planning may be required. If it is not then there may be a need for supplementation to boost necessary nutrients or vitamins. The requirements for Vitamin B12 (found in manufactured foods), Vitamin D (may just require extra doses of sunshine!), iron, zinc and calcium all increase during pregnancy and this can lead to deficiency if not corrected.

Another often forgotten nutrient is omega3 fatty acids, this plays an important role in brain function and development. Some women can enter pregnancy already deficient in this important nutrient; sources include fatty fish, flax seed and walnuts. But be careful of certain fish and their mercury content.

More detailed recommendations can be found on the respective government website or you can go to diet & nutrition at From Little Acorns Academy

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/pregnancy-and-breastfeeding-tips-for-a-balanced-diet-628043.html

About the Author:
Stuart is a father of four children, with a passionate belief that all children have the potential to be great in their own way.
He is a contributor towards the content at From Little Acorns Academy

How to Conceive a Baby Boy - Tips For Future Moms and Dads

By Gillian Reynolds

Although many people relish the idea of not knowing whether they are expecting a boy or a girl, many of us simply aren't that way. It's not uncommon for couples to dream about having a baby of a specific gender. A son is a great gift and if you are crossing your fingers that you'll soon be the parent of a little boy, it's not just up to Mother Nature anymore. When you are considering how to conceive a baby boy, there are a few methods that just may work for you.

The first thing to consider when it comes to how to conceive a baby boy is timing. There's a lot of advice being bandied about that suggests that if you have your heart set on a boy that you should try and have intercourse as close to ovulation as possible. This means that you need to track when you ovulate and then plan on trying to get pregnant within twenty four hours of that day. This can be a bit tricky, but if you have tracked when you ovulate it can be quite effective.

It's also been said that eating certain foods is also a great approach. When it comes to how to conceive a baby boy you want to eat red meat and drink colas. This applies to both the soon to be mom and the dad. Salty foods may also play a part in creating the right environment for conceiving a baby boy. Although not scientifically proven it's an old wives tale that many mothers of sons swear by.

Drinking coffee may also help the man who is trying hoping to be dad to a newborn son. Caffeine may actually stimulate the Y chromosome making them more active. Again, this hasn't been proven but for the man who already enjoys his caffeine fix, it may prove helpful.

There are methods that do work when it comes to choosing the gender of your baby. For more suggestions, including a method that is 100% guaranteed to help you conceive either a baby girl or a baby boy, visit this informative site.

Don't let nature decide the gender of your baby. If you have your heart set on a boy or girl, find out what you can do to ensure you get the little boy or girl you desperately want. There are proven ways to pick your baby's gender that are guaranteed to work.

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Baby Kitchen Safety Tips

By Jan Bay

Every new parent should make it a priority to learn good baby kitchen safety habits. Nobody wants to believe that they are guilty of dropping the ball where their children's health and safety are concerned and yet the number of toddlers that are treated for burns that they got in their own kitchens is shockingly high. We spend an enormous amount of money on products and gadgets that secure newborns in the car and the stroller, but harnesses and belts are not all that it takes to keep your child out of harm's way.

Unsteady babies can manage to engage themselves in accidents anywhere in the home. Table corners and area rugs that had previously been considered harmless suddenly take on new personalities as dangerous stumbling blocks that can send us on our way to the emergency room in an instant. Childproofing the den or living areas of the home can be as simple as picking up loose items and eliminating sharp edges by installing some bumpers and guards; but what about the kitchen? Is it possible for a parent to create a one hundred percent baby proof kitchen?

Safety latches on the cabinet doors and drawers are an important part of the baby kitchen safety package, but don't depend on them because babies learn to disable baby proofing door handles very quickly. Perhaps the best bit of baby kitchen safety advice that I can offer is to make the kitchen off limits. This recommendation is especially important for times when the stove is on.

Sometimes you might find yourself in a pinch for time when baby is awake and find yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to have baby in the kitchen. Days like this, when you are under pressure to get things done or are behind on your work will really put your baby kitchen safety practices to the test.

Many moms rely on the baby's high chair to keep their baby safe in the kitchen. The first rule of thumb would be to locate the high chair as far from the cooking area as possible. However, you should be aware that even if your little one is corralled in the high chair at what you might consider to be a safe distance, a dropped pot or an unintentional splash of hot food can travel much further than you could ever imagine.

The bottom line is that it's never a good idea to have a baby underfoot while you are busy cooking dinner. It might be a good idea to cook while baby is taking a nap or wait until dad comes home and can watch baby while you prepare your meal. If daddy is too tired to help out, feed him a salad and a sandwich. Perhaps the next time you ask for his assistance, he will be more cooperative.

The combination of Jan Bay's love of interior decorating and child rearing motivated the building of her site, UNIQUE BABY GEAR IDEAS which features numerous articles on nursery design, reviews of modern baby gear and the creation of modern nurseries for babies.Use of this article requires an active link to Unique Baby Gear Ideas.

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Critical Strategies to Get Pregnant Fast

By Benjamin Wise

Nutrition is a critical consideration, especially if you have an underlying problem like diabetes. Go over the food pyramid, and eat in accord with it. You can normalize any blood sugar problems as well as give yourself more energy throughout the day by having six small meals a day, instead of three larger ones, and try to eat a little protein and a complex carbohydrate for breakfast every morning (an egg and slice of whole-wheat toast is ideal.)

Start taking a prenatal vitamin too, to ensure you get that folic acid in as well. There is evidence that certain foods also have an impact - whole milk, for instance, may help you get pregnant - but nothing certain yet so don't just jump on the bandwagon.

Weight, doctors are learning, is a critical consideration. You need a BMI of at least 22 to have a normal chance of conceiving. Being just a little overweight is okay. However, if you creep up into the obese category, with a BMI of 30 or above, your fertility will begin to drop significantly. That means having that cheese on your sandwich is probably a good thing, but eating two sandwiches - maybe not so much.

Time your menstrual cycle. For most women, fourteen days after the first day of her period is the day of ovulation. Talk to your doctors about how to measure basal temperatures, mucus, and all the other fertile signs, but you can probably expect it to be right around the fourteenth day, plus or minus a couple of days.

If you want a number of useful techniques and strategies--not just one. then select any of these links.

Learn how to Get Pregnant Get a free report on how to Avoid 7 common mistakes and Get Pregnant Faster.

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On Your Feet: High Heels' Effects on the Body

Carefully read this...to ladies like to wearing high heels.



Impact:

1. The knee
Osteoarthritis - due to excess force on the inside of the knee


2. The calf
Pain in the calf - due to muscles shorten and tighten


3. Toes (Morton's Neuroma)
Pain and numbnes in toes - due to thickening of tissues around a nerve 3rd and 4th toes with narrow toebox high heels.


4. Achilles tendon
Pain in the tendon - due to tendon shorten and tighten up.



And...many more...Just wonder why womens like the pain?

Wearing Shoes During Pregnancy

By Sarah Freeland

It may become a temptation to keep your same old shoes during the entirety of your pregnancy, however that should not be common practice. While most women won't notice a change until later in their pregnancy, it is important to keep almost constant tabs on your foot health. This is especially true when your baby bump becomes larger, and begins to put more pressure on your lower back. Finding the right pair of shoes not only has the ability to make you feel better physically, but can be added as an accessories to your favorite outfit. One of the most tale tell signs that you are ready for a new pair of shoes, is that your previous pair seems to be getting a little tight. I would suggest to not ignore your body's warning, as this can lead to longer and more uncomfortable recovery from the problems caused by poor fitting shoes.

While most women consider their maternity wear during pregnancy with a harsh view, many seem to neglect an every day necessity. It is important during your pregnancy to find a properly fitting and well supported shoe during your pregnancy months. According to the American College of foot and ankle surgeons, it is suggested that pregnant women wear square toed shoes; because they offer extra room. They also highly suggest that you opt for shoes that have a broad, low heel since ballet flats and moccasins may not be the best choices due to the lack of ankle support. It is suggested that you have your foot size checked after the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy; as the ligaments within the foot of a pregnant woman will begin to soften, and may become up to a half size bigger which will make older shoes tight. It has also been speculated, that a decent pair of shoes that aids in circulation may help to prevent varicose veins as well; there are multiple reasons for you to consider making your next purchase of shoes.

It is a misconception that you need to steer clear of a heel during pregnancy, however a slight heel on your shoe tends to be better for your posture. They also tend to be far better on your back than either a high heel or the totally flat shoes such as a ballet flat. I would suggest purchasing shoes that are made of either leather or canvas, as they allow your feet to breath well. While shopping for your shoes, you may wish to consider athletic shoes as they provide good support for the arches, and heels of your feet; and tend to lend themselves well to both home or work environments.

Shopping for baby apparel and toddler shirts? The baby clothing industry today is vast and caters to every taste. Add style to your baby with a designer t-shirt, a rock onesie or a funky diaper bag. We carry black baby clothes, baby hoodies, cool maternity clothes, baby onesies and maternity tops. Find the perfect baby shower gift or a unique onesie.

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Why Can't I Get Pregnant?

By Leslie Nelson

Have you been trying to get pregnant without success? Would you like to find out how to get pregnant? Do you have PCOS, blocked fallopian tubes, or have irregular cycles?

There are many ways to get pregnant without help from a medical professional. First off, your body must be ready for pregnancy. It must be healthy.

Here are some tips to get started:

1. Start exercising
2. Stop Drinking Caffeine
3. Start taking a prenatal vitamin
4. Stop Smoking
5. Stop drinking alcohol
6. Start Relaxing and Stop Stressing

These are just a few steps in the right direction.

Secondly, you must get your mind healthy. Stop stressing about getting pregnant. Just sit back and relax. Make sex enjoyable again, stop making it a task. Get romantic again with your partner. Think positive about getting pregnant.

Third, you must know the methods to get pregnant. Just because one way worked great for one couple, it doesn't always mean its going to work the same for you. Get to know your body by knowing your cycles. A common myth is that you ovulate 14 days after the first day of your period. Some women do ovulate on day 14, but there are a lot of women who don't. Watch for signs of ovulation.

Fourth, your spouse, significant other, partner, must also be healthy. He must take the same steps you are taking to be healthy. But instead of taking the prenatal vitamins, he should be taking a multivitamin.

Just relax. Get Back to the romance. Be spontaneous!

Getting Pregnant Naturally

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Conception Tips and Tips For Getting Pregnant For Those Who Are Trying To Conceive

By Brian Gardner

CONCEPTION TIPS

Conception takes place in three basic stages: ovulation, then fertilization, and the division of the fertilized egg, which then implants in the uterus - which it isn't until then when pregnancy is considered successful! To better understand the process, we have explained in greater detail below each step of the process. If you are trying to conceive, keep reading these conception tips and your chances of getting pregnant are greater.

WHAT IS OVULATION

Ovulation usually occurs midway through a woman's menstrual cycle. At this point, the follicle which outgrows the others, ruptures and the egg is released. The site of this release is called the stigma, and the follicle goes on to form the corpus luteum.

The corpus luteum produces progesterone which is a hormone responsible for nurturing the baby until the placenta takes over. Barely visible to the naked eye, your baby at this point isn't bigger than a pencil dot. Keep reading if getting pregnant is what you want!

Tiny hairlike projections called cilia move the released egg from the ovary along the fallopian tube to the uterus. If conception is successful, chances are this will take place toward the outer end of the fallopian tube, near the ovary.

The egg usually has no more than 12 hours to be fertilized, otherwise it will die, the follicle will dry up and the uterine lining will be shed. If this happens, the menstrual period will begin, and conception and getting pregnant will be unlikely.

However, if the egg becomes fertilized, then the progesterone levels will increase, the uterine lining will thicken, and conception will be considered a success! To make things easier to understand, we will breakdown a typical woman's menstrual cycle and help with these conception tips:

DAYS 1-5 OF YOUR CYCLE:

We start the menstrual period when you first start to menstruate. So day one is the day you begin to have discharge. It is very important to record this date, as we will need it to calculate your estimated ovulation date.

DAYS 6-11:

These days are called 'dry days', as you are not menstruating nor are you fertile. Your body at this stage is simply preparing to release the egg. If you are having problems getting pregnant, read on. The next part of your menstrual cycle will be the opportunities to conceive.

DAYS 12-18:

These are the days when you will be at your most fertile. Your body will release the egg during the course of these 6 days, so this is the best time to be having sex.

DAYS 19-32:

If you are only having sex now during this period, then I am afraid to say you have missed your chance, and will have to wait for the cycle to begin again. It is highly unlikely that you will have any success in falling pregnant during this time.

SIGNS OF OVULATION

Most women are unaware when they ovulate. Roughly 25% experience lower abdominal pain, which is located primarily near the ovary that's ovulating. The pain is caused by irritation of the fluid or blood from the ruptured follicle. Although this is a symptom of ovulation, it's not always considered a reliable sign that ovulation is occurring. While trying to conceive, it's important to understand ovulation and getting pregnant depends on this. Read more conception tips.
To better ensure that you are ovulating, a more concrete sign is the change of cervical mucus which is secreted by the cervix. Normal after menstruation, the consistency of the cervical mucus is somewhat scant - thick, and usually stick, this makes it impenetrable to sperm.

As ovulation draws near, the cervical mucus becomes thinner and wetter, allowing the sperm to travel through it at higher speeds, and with greater ease. Getting pregnant is imminent.
Lastly, another sign of ovulation can be found by taking your body temperature. A small, yet distinct rise in body temperature is caused by the increase in the level of progesterone. Even though this increase might only be .5 degrees F, women can still detect this. While trying to conceive, this is a great indicator.

The most optimum time for conception to occur is when ovulation has just happened or is imminent. To better ensure your chances to become pregnant, making love during this time would result in the best chance for getting pregnant and having a baby!

YOUR CHANCES OF CONCEIVING

Fertility varies significantly between couples, as it can take one the first month to conceive, while with others, it can take years. On average, couples will conceive 25% of the time the first month, 60% of the time within 6 months and 80% of the time within one year. Keep trying to conceive, even if you are unsuccessful at first.

There are several risk factors involved that might prevent or delay conception. These may include smoking, drinking alcohol, certain medications, obesity, exposure to heat and chemicals, drug use, and a few others. Causing poor sperm count and quality, this can create an unsuccessful journey towards the fallopian tube.

To improve your chances of conceiving, the following is a list of activities and habits that will make your pregnancy more imminent:

Regular exercise Not only will regular exercise improve your well-being, it will also help reduce stress. In addition, it can also result in good sleep, and promotes relaxation.

A general health check Visiting your doctor on a regular basis will help ensure that you are in tip-top shape while you are trying to conceive.

Track your ovulation Keeping a menstrual calendar is very effective while trying to conceive. Since ovulation usually occurs 14 days after menstruation, it is easy to know what timeframe is most optimum to conceive. You can check your basal body temperature, as well as purchase ovulation detection kits found at most local grocery and drug stores. Making love at least every other day during your fertile period will result in the best chances to conceive.

Avoid smoking Not only does smoking damage your overall health, it can also affect your partner's sperm count.

Eat a well-balanced diet The most important thing to take is folic acid, as it is a catalyst in the process of conception. In addition, be sure to receive ample amounts of vitamin B12, which is found in meat, fish, eggs and milk.

Brian Gardner is the Founder of PregnancyEtc.com - An Online Pregnancy Resource For 9 Months & Beyond. Having recently experienced pregnancy firsthand with his wife Shelly, Brian has dedicated his efforts towards pregnancy research. The development of http://www.pregnancyetc.com was to ensure that expecting parents had a place to find information on pregnancy and babies.

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Twins Pregnancy...A Father's Point of View

By Dan Brunkow

So you’re expecting twins. Congratulations!
Are you still in shock? I sure was. The thought of bringing two babies into the world at one time scared the heck out of me, especially since I was already the father of two boys (ages five and three). I remembered how much work the first year was with both of them, with all of the diapers, the bottles, the sleepless nights, etc… I wondered how in the world we were going to do it with two babies? I immediately started stressing out about all of things that we were going to go through once the babies were born. Little did I know at the time that the most stressful part of having twins was already upon us…the pregnancy.

I did not know at the time that a twin pregnancy is not at all like a single pregnancy. With our first two pregnancies, it was relatively low impact for me (I know, all of the women reading this are rolling their eyes, especially my wife). But to my wife’s credit, it’s true. I figured I had about eight months to play as much golf as I could before the birth of the twins, and that’s when I would really have to become involved. After all, my work was already done for the time being, right? Boy, was I wrong!

There are many things that happened during the pregnancy that surprised me, or that no one told me about. I’d like to tell you about some of those things here, so maybe you’ll be a little more prepared for what happens during a twin pregnancy than I was.
First, pre-term labor is fairly common in a twin pregnancy. I didn’t even know what pre-term labor was until it happened to my wife. This was definitely the most stressful thing about the pregnancy, and it’s something that I don’t remember anyone warning me about. Maybe my wife mentioned it to me, but you know how it is, there was probably a ball game or something. My wife went to a routine check-up at about the 25th week of pregnancy. After being gone for an abnormally long time, she phoned me from the hospital and told me that they were keeping her overnight because she was having contractions. What a shock! I couldn’t understand how that could be so early in the pregnancy. The babies were less than 3 lbs. each at the time, so we were both extremely worried. They wound up giving her medication to stop labor and kept her in the hospital for a couple of days. This was the first of four trips to the hospital to stop labor. The good news was that the medication that they gave her successfully stopped the contractions each time, and she was able to carry the twins past 36 weeks.

Second, prepare for bed rest. My wife wound up going on bed rest for about the last four weeks of the pregnancy. This is a very common occurrence for a twin pregnancy, so you need to prepare yourselves for it. We were fairly lucky because my wife was a stay at home mother, so we did not have to worry about her taking time off from her job. We were also very fortunate that my mother-in-law was able to come and stay with us during that time to help with our two boys and to help out around the house. I’m not sure what we would have done without her. My advice is to recruit family and friends if you can to help out. But however you do it, take bed rest very seriously. Make sure you’re wife stays off of her feet. There’s a good reason why many mothers of twins are put on bed rest by their doctor, and that’s so she doesn’t go into labor too early. You want your wife to carry those babies as long as she can for the health of your twins. Oh, and needless to say, golf was just not an option while my wife was on bed rest.

Third, don’t expect a full-term pregnancy. It very rarely happens with twins. The goal of a twin pregnancy is to carry them at least 36 weeks. Once you reach that mark you are considered to be out of the ‘danger zone’. Even though 36 weeks is the target, many twins are delivered earlier. What this means is that you have less time to get everything ready for the new arrivals. I would suggest getting the babies room ready earlier, start buying those baby items that you need to purchase, get things done around the house that need to be done. During this pregnancy, you may not have time to wait until the last minute!

Finally, you are about to embark on an emotional and stressful, next few months. It was truly an emotional roller coaster for us. I’ll never forget our fourth trip to the hospital because of pre-term labor. My wife started having contractions again at around week 34. The babies were both more than 5 lbs., so we were sure that they would just let it go and we could finally deliver the twins. We thought that the twins were big enough and strong enough to be born safely, so I packed up the overnight bag and the camera and we headed for the hospital, positive that we were going to finally have the twins that day. After all of the other trips to the hospital, we were ready. Once we got to the hospital we were immediately put in a delivery room. And then the contractions stopped…all by themselves. We asked the doctor to induce labor, and he refused, for the safety of the twins. Of course he was right, but we were both devastated. We were just emotionally and mentally exhausted. My wife cried all the way home.

My best advice to you is to try to stay calm, help and support your wife (she truly is doing most of the work), and trust your doctor’s advice. Remember, you’re goal is to try and carry the babies at least until week 36, which will greatly decrease the chance of complications with the birth of your twins. Do everything you can to make this happen. Trust me, even though a twin pregnancy is a very trying time for the mother and the father, its well worth it once those twins arrive!

About the Author

Dan Brunkow is the owner and moderator of http://www.twinadvice.com/. TwinAdvice.com is a site dedicated to providing parenting advice to parents of twins, from parents of twins.

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Successful Weight Loss After Pregnancy

By Beverley Brooke

How fast you lose weight will depend on a number of factors, including the amount of weight you gained during your pregnancy.
Most women will lose anywhere from 10-14 pounds within the first 2 weeks of delivery. This weight may be attributed primarily to the loss of excess fluid in the body, the baby's weight, the placenta and amniotic fluid. Some women might lose a little bit less, and others might lose a little bit more.

As the uterus shrinks back down to its normal size and your hormone levels continue to fall, you will lose weight. Most women gain at least 7 pounds of fat during pregnancy. This fat is meant to help women store energy while breastfeeding. How fast this weight comes off will depend on a number of factors including: genetics, your overall health, diet and exercise.
You should expect that it will take a little bit of time to lose the weight you gained during pregnancy. It did after all take you nine months to put that weight on! Many women have successfully lost weight however, in just a few short months after a delivery.

Some women will hang on to the last few pounds they have to lose until they stop breastfeeding. Your body may want to cling to a few extra pounds to ensure you have enough energy to provide adequate milk for the baby. Every woman's experience is unique with respect to this.
The good news is that with a solid nutritional program and with moderate exercise, you can expect to lose the weight you gained during pregnancy within a reasonable time frame.
Most women will be back to their pre pregnancy weight within nine months of delivering IF they follow a regular exercise program and eat healthily after delivery. That said some women will lose their pregnancy weight in as little as six to twelve weeks!

Article by Beverley Brooke, visit http://www.pregnancywizard.com/exercise-fitness/weight-loss-after.php for more on weight loss after pregnancy

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Sex Education, Family Planning Can Prevent Abandoned Babies

General
July 10, 2008 20:31 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 (Bernama) -- Sex education and family planning are important to prevent unwanted pregnancies and abandoned babies since every 10 days, a baby is abandoned in the Klang Valley.A recent study initiated by the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) Malaysia noted that abandoning babies was a serious social issue and there was a need for a safe haven for abandoned babies.Statistics from the Malaysian police indicate that about 100 babies are abandoned every year in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued here Thursday, UNFPA said at least 200 million women wanted to use safe and effective family planning methods, but were unable to do so because they lacked access to information and services or the support of their husbands and communities."More than 50 million of the 190 million women who become pregnant each year have abortions and many of these are clandestine and performed under unsafe conditions."The World Population Day, which falls tomorrow, provides a chance to raise awareness of the many benefits of family planning, including maternal health, gender equality and poverty reduction," it said.In the statement, UNFPA assistant representative Yeoh Yeok Kim said comprehensive sex education was also a strategy to curb and halt the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country.

"The Malaysian AIDS Council reported that more than 80,000 people in Malaysia have contracted HIV/AIDS and 10,000 people have died of AIDS since 1986," she said.The UNFPA ia an international development agency that promotes the right of every woman, man and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity.It supports countries in using population data for policies and programmes to reduce poverty and to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, every young person is free of HIV/AIDS, and every girl and woman is treated with dignity and respect.
-- BERNAMA

Coping With an Unplanned Pregnancy

By Patty Hone

Your period is late and you start to think maybe you might be pregnant. Maybe you are afraid to go take a test because you don't want to find out the results. You may be asking yourself "how could this happen"? If you find yourself pregnant with an unplanned pregnancy all kinds of emotions may run through your mind. Perhaps you are secretly excited about this but scared to tell your husband. Maybe you are not married and scared about facing motherhood alone. Maybe you do not want any more children and the prospect of having another baby is the worst thing you could imagine right now. There are many scenarios that lead up to unplanned pregnancies. Mistakes in judgment happen, condoms break, birth control pills fail, even tubal ligations and vasectomies fail.

Once you get over the initial shock of finding out that you are pregnant you will have some tough decisions to face. Do you want to carry this pregnancy, how are you going to tell your friends and family, how are you going to handle the emotions and pressures that people will put on you. The first thing you should do is try not to panic. Although this may seem like an extreme emergency, in reality you have time to make a decision. Try to take some time to collect yourself and think about your options. You will not be the first mom to not be excited about the news of a new baby. Try not to beat yourself up. Take responsibility for your actions but wallowing in guilt is not going to help the situation. Before you talk to anyone about your decision take some time to decide what you want to do. If you want to keep this baby, have an abortion, or consider an adoption that is your decision and talking to someone about the situation may cloud your judgment. Yes your partner should probably be involved in the decision-making, ultimately; you are the one that is going to have to live with your choices. Try to make some plans in your head for what you would like to do before you talk to anyone.

After you have had time to think about things and to collect yourself, you may want to get some counsel from friends, family or maybe a minister. Find someone that you know will be supportive of your decision to confide in. You need to have support during this time. You don't want to be surrounded by people that are going to beat you down for your mistake or pressure you into doing what they want. Surround yourself with a support group. If you have no one to turn to you can seek help from support groups geared for this situation. If you do not plan to have an abortion, you may want to steer away from groups that endorse this and perhaps find a faith based support group.

Eventually you are going to have to tell some people. You don't have to tell everyone and you can tell people about this in your own time. Your partner may not be the first person you want to tell and that's okay. When you are ready find a time to sit down and talk to him. The longer you go without telling him the harder it will be. Sometimes it is easier to tell him earlier and let him adjust to the situation than it is to wait and have him angry for not telling him sooner. Either way if you think that he will be unhappy it is going to be hard to tell him the news. Prepare yourself for the reactions and when you are ready just tell him. There are no right words to say. Try to avoid blaming or taking the blame. This situation doesn't happen with only one person involved. It is not all your fault or all his fault. It is a shared responsibility that the two of you will have to deal with.

If your partner, friends and family are not initially supportive that's okay. It is not their life or their pregnancy. They are not the ones who have to live with your decision. You are. Try not to let unwanted comments get to you. You can use humor to lighten the mood. If you are excited about this and they are not, then share your excitement. You can use I statements to let them know how you feel. If others fail to respect your decision and do not have anything positive to offer, you might want to simply explain that the discussion is off limits and refuse to talk about it with them. Whatever your choice may be, in the end it is your decision.

About The Author

Patty Hone is a wife and mommy to three kids. She is also the owner of Justmommies.com. Justmommies is an online community for mommies to make friends and find support. Please visit our website.

email@justmommies.com

Pregnancy, Diabetes, and Your Feet

By Christine Dobrowolski, DPM

There are so many changes the body undergoes during pregnancy that it becomes easy to ignore the changes in the feet. During pregnancy the body releases hormones that allow the ligaments to relax in the birth canal. The ligaments in the feet also relax, causing the foot to lengthen and widen. Many will complain of a shoe size increase by one or two sizes. In most circumstances, this flattening and widening of the foot is benign and no problems result.

In the diabetic, this change in foot size is important to recognize. Despite the increase in foot size, many moms will continue to wear the same size shoes. As a diabetic, properly fitting shoes are of utmost importance. Increased pressure on the foot can cause areas of rub or irritation and potentially result in ulceration. Once there is an ulceration, one is at risk for infection, delayed healing and further diabetic foot complications.

Diabetic neuropathy is the single greatest risk factor for developing foot ulcerations. Neuropathy is the loss of sensation in the feet commonly caused by diabetes. Many individuals will develop neuropathy before they are diagnosed with diabetes. Others will develop neuropathy years after being diagnosed with diabetes. Luckily, gestational diabetes is not typically associated with neuropathy.

Unfortunately, type I diabetics develop neuropathy much earlier than type II diabetics and may have neuropathy during their pregnancy. Regardless of the type of diabetes, it is still extremely important to have the feet evaluated to assess the status of the nerves. Even mild neuropathy increases the risk of ulceration. Wearing shoes which are too small causes an increase in friction and an increased risk of skin breakdown.

Wearing properly fitting shoes during and after pregnancy is of particular importance. Although the ligaments relax in the foot during pregnancy, they do not stay relaxed. The post-pregnancy foot is at higher risk for developing foot problems. There are multiple reasons contributing to the increased risk. The flattened foot places excess stress on the ligament that holds up the arch. The weight gain from pregnancy places excess stress on the feet. Moms are also carrying their baby, added weight which transmits to the feet. Moms are staying at home more often and walking around in slippers and flexible shoes which are generally not supportive.

To decrease your chances of foot problems during and after pregnancy follow these steps:

1. Check your feet everyday: This is an absolute necessity if you are a type I diabetic or if you have diagnosed neuropathy. It is a good habit to practice. Look for cuts, sores, bruises, openings or areas of irritation. Remember, if your nerves are not functioning properly, then you may not feel everything in your feet. If you cannot reach your feet, have a family member check your feet or place a mirror on the floor and put your feet over it.

2. Check your shoes before you put your foot in them.

3. Don't walk around barefoot: Wear a supportive shoe, one that has a rigid sole and bends only where the foot bends (at the toes). If a shoe seems too confined, find a slipper which has a semi-rigid sole, or try a clog or slip-in shoe with a more rigid sole. The remaining aspect of the shoe can be soft and flexible and allow for swelling, but the sole should be rigid from the heel to the ball of the foot.

4. Buy shoes that fit your feet: Be aware of the changes your feet are going through. The feet are most likely widening and lengthening. Make sure the shoes don't cramp the toes. Your feet will not shrink after the birth.

5. Watch out for folds in your socks: A simple fold can cause rub or irritation on your feet. Swelling will be greater by the end of the day and the small crease that didn't bother you in the morning can rub an open sore or blister on the toes. Serious consequences in diabetics can include ulceration and infection.

6. Dry your feet and between toes after showers: Increased moisture between your toes can lead to skin breakdown and eventual ulceration.

7. Don't be a victim of fashion: Most moms will avoid high fashion during pregnancy, but many try squeezing into that strappy heel after. Wearing high heeled shoes puts excess stress on the ball of the foot, cramps the toes and increases the chances of ankle sprains. Tight shoes will increase the chance of ulceration for those with neuropathy.

8. Test the bath water before stepping in: If you have neuropathy, you will not recognize when the temperature is too hot. Check the water by inserting your hand into the water to wrist depth.

9. Don't use a heating pad on your feet: Although the idea of heat on your feet may sound soothing after a long day, the heat will increase swelling and inflammation. Sore feet respond better to ice. Roll your foot over a frozen sports water bottle to help ease the achiness in the arch. Wear a sock while doing this and don't put ice directly on your feet. The heating pad can cause burns in those who have neuropathy.

10. Don't use any medication on the skin: Be careful of topical medications during pregnancy and during breast-feeding. Consult your doctor before use. Don't use medicated corn pads from the local drug stores if you have neuropathy.

11. Visit your podiatrist: At the first sign of a problem, make an appointment with your podiatrist. Prevention is much easier than treatment.

Christine Dobrowolski is a podiatrist and the author of Those Aching Feet: Your Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment of
Common Foot Problems. To learn more about Dr. Dobrowolski
and her book visit http://www.skipublishing.com/ or at
http://www.northcoastfootcare.com

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Pregnancy and Pre-natal Vitamins

By Monica Nelson

Pre-natal vitamins are important to the health of a growing baby. They are also important to pregnant mothers because their bodies are going through so many changes.

Our diets today are often deficient in key nutrients found in pre-natal vitamins that help a baby's development in the womb. One deficiency that has been found is the lack of enough folic acid, one of the B vitamins.

Rectifying vitamin deficiency can be done by modifying your diet and by taking pre-natal vitamin supplements. It is easiest for your body to absorb nutrients from foods, but since it can be difficult to take in enough of those key vitamins and minerals during pregnancy, most doctors recommend that you also take pre-natal supplements.

The most important pre-natal vitamin is folic acid, which is the synthetic form of the naturally occurring folate. If folic acid is taken in the first four weeks of pregnancy, it can reduce the risk of the baby having an incomplete spinal column, or neural tube defect by up to 70%.

Because folic acid is most useful very early in the pregnancy, most doctors recommend that women trying to conceive begin supplementing their diet with 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid per day. In fact the U.S. Public Health Service recommends that all women of childbearing age take this supplement as a preventative measure, in the case of an unplanned pregnancy. Many once-daily multi-vitamin supplements include this in their product.

While folic acid is most important in the first trimester, most doctors recommend it throughout the pregnancy. Spinach and chicken liver are great natural sources of folate. Folate is often added to breakfast cereals and breads; this addition will be written on the nutrition label.

Calcium is another critical supplement for your baby for the same reasons that it is important for you; calcium helps the baby develop strong bones and teeth. One of the best sources of calcium is cheddar cheese (real cheese, not the plastic-like "cheese product" made from hydrogenated oil with orange
color added). Calcium is also found in yogurt, milk, kale, etc.

In addition to dairy products, calcium citrate is often added to cereals and other non-dairy products like orange juice.

When taking calcium supplements it may be safest to take calcium citrate which is made from citrus fruit.

Small amounts of vitamin D are important for calcium absorption. The good news is that you can absorb this vitamin through exposure to the sun. Most prenatal supplements provide this vitamin.

Iron is important for the baby's development of red blood cells, which deliver oxygen to the baby. Supplementing iron into your diet is mostly important for the mother's health. Insufficient iron might lead to fatigue and anemia. On the other hand, too much iron can hurt both the mother and the baby. Be very careful with iron supplements!

The baby will generally get all of the iron he needs, even if that means leaving the mom anemic. By the end of the pregnancy a mother will have twice as much blood in her body as she did before. Therefore pregnant women may need more iron as non-pregnant women. Another important fact is that coffee and tea can decrease iron absorption.

The best and safest way to get the right amount of iron is to take the balance multi-vitamin and mineral pre-natal supplements that your doctor recommends. You might save money if you ask your doctor which over the counter pre-natal vitamins may contain the same ingredients as prescription versions.

Pre-natal vitamin supplements are even more important for women who have poor nutrition, women who are carrying twins, and women who have a closely spaced pregnancy.

For women that are healthy and eat a balanced diet, pre-natal supplements are still important to insure against the possibility that the women are not getting enough of any given nutrient. Many women who were careful to eat right were still found to be low in folic acid for example.

Vitamin supplements, in particular those with iron, can be tough to swallow for the expecting mother because of the infamous 'morning sickness,' that is far from relegated to the morning hours.

Many women have found that beginning to take pre-natal vitamins a month or more before conception can diminish morning sickness and therefore make taking the pre-natal vitamins during pregnancy an easier pill to swallow. Taking prenatal vitamins when you are not pregnant does not cause any problems. These vitamins are not that different than regular daily multi-vitamins, except that they do not contain any herbs or herbal supplements that could cause problems. Be very careful to avoid most herbal supplements when pregnant. Talk to your doctor.

Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. All information here is intended for general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, diet or fitness regimen.

Monica Nelson writes articles that offer helpful information on subjects such as women's health, weightloss, pregnancy symptoms, prenatal vitamins and what to expect in your pregnancy week by week.

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Glutathione for a Healthier Pregnancy

By Priya Shah

All parents-to-be nurture the dream of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

But the modern environment and diet is deficient in many factors essential for the health of mother and fetus. One of those factors is antioxidants.

The role of antioxidants like folic acid in preventing birth defects like spina bifida and cleft palate is well known. It is now included in all prenatal vitamin supplements.

But the role of antioxidants like glutathione and Vitamin E in pregnancy is often overlooked.

Antioxidants and glutathione status play an important role in the development and growth of the fetus, maintenance of a healthy pregnancy - and even before pregnancy, in fertility and conception.

Glutathione is the body's master antioxidant. It helps to regenerate stores of other antioxidants like Vitamin C and E.

It also protects both mother and fetus from the damaging effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.

Many pregnancy complications and birth defects have been linked to oxidative stress, free radical damage and low glutathione levels in the mother and fetus.

The role of glutathione in the development of the foetus and placenta is crucial. Glutathione (GSH) can control cell differentiation, proliferation, and cell death - essential functions in the developing embryo.

In the placenta, glutathione detoxifies pollutants before they reach the developing child. Most substances or factors which cause birth defects (teratogens) are known to exert their embryotoxic effects because they cause oxidative stress.

The human placenta possesses a significant amount of glutathione S-transferase (GST) capable of detoxification or activation of drugs and pharmaceuticals during the critical period of organ development in the fetus.

Some drugs are known to cause birth defects in the growing fetus by generating free radicals, and depleting GSH stores.

In the early embryonic stages, the fetus is sensitive to the toxic and teratogenic effects of chemicals, whereas it is sensitive to carcinogenic effects during late fetal stages.

Carcinogens administered to the mother can be transferred through the placenta and induce cancer in the fetus. Many carcinogens are much more active in the fetus than in adults and they tend to act as abortifacients and teratogens as well.

Environmental and lifestyle factors are known to cause oxidative stress and lower glutathione levels - resulting in birth defects, abortion and miscarriages in pregnancy.

Some of the known teratogens (causing birth defects) in pregnancy include:

o Radiation
o Pesticides and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
o Air pollution
o Heavy metals (mercury, cadmium, arsenic)
o Vinyl chloride
o Acryonitrile
o Excess Oxygen (hyperoxia)
o Anti-psychotic and anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs)
o Thalidomide
o Cigarette smoke
o Alcohol (ethanol) consumption

Maternal health factors that increase free radicals and cause birth defects include:

o Diabetes
o Pre-eclampsia
o Infection and Inflammation

Glutathione and other antioxidants attenuate oxidative stress in pregnant women with inflammation or maternal conditions like diabetes and pre-eclampsia, and in fetuses at risk for developing cystic fibrosis.

Supplementation with glutathione precursors and antioxidants can decrease the incidence of birth defects and protect both mothers and the fetus from the damaging and possibly fatal consequences of pregnancy complications.

Glutathione (GSH ) also prevents or minimizes the oxidative stress that occurs during labor and the birth process.

Perinatal or birth asphyxia/hypoxia (deprivation of oxygen supply to the brain) in preterm deliveries and labor can lead to cerebral palsy, respiratory distress syndrome, irreversible brain injury, and permanent neurological and intellectual handicaps.

Administration of the glutathione precursor, N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC), to the pregnant mother partially prevents oxidative stress during the birth process in premature infants.

Currently, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology advises all pregnant women to take a prenatal vitamin containing antioxidants.

In addition, they advise eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, the best sources of antioxidant protection.

Read a detailed report with references on the role of glutathione in pregnancy

------------------------
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid the use of supplementary glutathione. Women who are pregnant or nursing should discontinue all supplements except as directed by their healthcare providers.
-------------------------------------------

Copyright © 2004 Priya Shah

_____________________________________________
About the author:

Priya Shah is the Editor of The Glutathione Report, a newsletter featuring regular updates on the health benefits of glutathione. Get a Free report on Glutathione in Health and Disease
____________________________________________

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Newborn Baby Caring Tips

Having a baby is always something to look forward to. It is especially exciting for first-time parents, however, it is understandable that first-time moms have a few hundred questions they need answered when it comes to taking care of their children. When he cries uncontrollably in the middle of the night and refuses milk or any other pacifier, would you know what’s wrong with him?

Fortunately, there are baby experts who can help every parent get through their anxiety of whether or not they are raising their baby well. When in doubt, consult your pediatrician, turn to friends, your own mother, and baby books to help you understand your baby. Bear in mind that the helpful advices you get are just suggestions, instinctively as a parent, you will know whether to follow some of the advice you’ve been receiving or not.

1. When your baby cries don’t think twice about going to him and either getting him or caressing him. If he is hungry, he will welcome your milk or his bottle. If he isn’t, try burping him maybe he feels irritated because of a full stomach or he has gas. You can also try laying him on his stomach and slowly rub his back; this will soothe him and put him to sleep.

2. Read to your child before bedtime from newborn up. With a newborn, you might find yourself reading to a sleeping baby since they sleep most of the time, however reading to him even when he is already sleeping will remind him later on about the soothing effect of your voice. He will learn to associate reading before bedtime with sleeping.

3. Start him on a schedule as early and as much as possible. Getting him used to a routine will help him recognize the daily activities the two of you will be doing from feeding to play time to nap time. Let his body clock tell him what it’s time for so you won’t have a hard time with bathing, feeding and such once he reaches his terrible two’s age.

4. Make a variation of his food. Feeding him the same pureed vegetable or fruit over and over will likely result in him eating very little if at all. You can check the internet for baby recipes if you’re stumped on what else to feed him. You can try pureeing a cooked meat dish like casserole or stewed beef.

5. Never leave your baby in the playpen or crib unattended. You might think that a crib or playpen is heaven sent because you can leave your baby for awhile to give you a little free time to finish your other chores but, crib accidents are one of the topmost reasons for babies getting hurt.
He can get tangled up in the playpen’s material or his head could get stuck in the crib. Put him within plain sight of you or put him in his stroller where you can take him with you wherever part of the house you’re at.

article by Wyatt Doolittle

Pregnancy Week by Week: Week 33 - Week 40

Week 33
You may now be able to distinguish the baby’s bottom from, for example, a foot or knee. You feel its movements as prods and kicks – it may be too big now to swoop around in the amniotic fluid.
Your baby has probably adopted the most usual head-down position, in which it will stay until the birth.

Week 34
Through the walls of the uterus, the baby can differentiate between dark and light, and is bathed in a red glow when sunlight is on your tummy.

Week 35
You may have backache. This is because ligaments and muscles supporting the joints in the small of your back soften and relax.
The baby’s bottom presses against your diaphragm. At this stage of its development, the baby measures approximately 44 cm and weighs around 2.5kg.

Week 36
Clinic visit may be every week from now on. If this is your first baby, it will probably engage some time this week or soon after, or may have done so already. Your lump will be noticeably lower down, and your breathing will be easier, although you may need to pass urine more often, and your sleep may be interrupted.
The baby is almost fully mature, and any time now the presenting part may drop down into your pelvis ready for birth. It is about 49 cm long.

Week 37
If you have chosen a hospital birth, you will have a chance to tour the birth rooms of the hospital. The baby is rehearsing breathing movements, although there is no air in its lungs. In this way amniotic fluid passes into the baby’s trachea, sometimes giving it hiccups!

Week 38
There is little space for maneuvers, and you may be aware that the baby moves less now. Instead of whole body movements, there are only jabs from the feet and knees, and the strange, buzzing sensation inside your vagina as the baby’s head moves against your pelvic floor muscles.
The baby may be putting on as much as 28 g a day at this stage.

Week 39
Your cervix is ripening in preparation for labour. You may feel heavy and weary and have strong contraction. The amniotic fluid is renewed every three hours.
The baby’s bowels are filled with greenish black meconium, excretions from the baby’s alimentary glands mixed with bile pigment, lanugo and cells from the bowel wall – this will be its first motion after birth.

Week 40
The long awaited day is near, and you probably feel fed up with being pregnant. You may have a mixture of apprehension and excitement. You may notice slight diarrhea.
The baby is about 55 cm long. You feel sharp kicks under your ribs at one side or the other. The presenting part presses against the softening cervix. You are very close to the time when you will be able to hold your baby in your arms and see your baby face to face.

article by Sheila Kitzinger

Main Pregnancy Problems In Womens

All pregnant women will agree that the first few months of pregnancy are unpleasant, to say the least. You may experience morning sickness, swelling in the legs and ankles, abdominal pains and cramps, heartburn, constipation, fatigue, bladder problems, and a myriad of problems in between. The goal of this article is to help you deal with these issues and feel better.

Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is probably the most common of the pregnancy symptoms. Don't be fooled; morning sickness nausea will come at any time of the day, not just in the morning. To help prevent nausea in the morning, wake up slowly. Try eating some plain crackers or dry cereal before getting out of bed. Avoid warm places; heat can increase nauseas feelings. Keep fresh air flowing by opening windows, or turning on exhaust fans. Cooking things in the microwave will emit fewer odors than cooking in the oven or stovetop. Eat something salty before meals, avoid greasy or spicy foods, and try not to drink fluids with your meals. Spread your meals out throughout the day, into about 6 smaller meals. Try taking your prenatal later in the day, and ask your doctor about vitamin B6 and ginger supplements. Sipping on fizzy water with lemon in it, or non-caffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger can help calm nausea.

Abdominal Pain or Cramps
There are many changes going on in your body. A lot of stress is being put on your abdominal muscles, which can cause sharp pains and cramps. To relieve these pains, try using a warm heating pad. To prevent these pains, try strengthening your abdominal muscles. Talk to your doctor to find out which kinds of exercises are best for you.

Swelling
Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience some swelling. Wearing support hose can help to control your weight gain in your legs and ankles. Avoid standing for long periods of time. Wear well-fitting shoes, or buy inserts designed especially for pregnant women. Avoid diuretics, as these will lead to increased swelling. Stay off your feet as much as possible, and elevate your legs when sitting. Lying down is even better than sitting.

Constipation
To combat constipation, you should exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat lots of fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables, and whole grain cereals and breads.

Fatigue
Fatigue can come from sleepless nights due to aches and pains or vivid dreams, or simply from too much stress. The most effective method for dealing with fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take several naps during the day. Eat a well balanced diet, including about an extra 300 calories per day. Iron deficiency is a leading cause of fatigue, so be sure to get enough. Although it may seem counter-productive, fatigue can often be relieved by exercising. Exercise will be refreshing and will leave you feeling energized.

Heartburn
Many of the remedies associated with nausea will also help you deal with heartburn. In addition, chew fennel or papaya enzymes, and avoid wearing tight clothing.

Bladder Problems
Bladder problems can be among the most bothersome of pregnancy related issues. First and foremost, drink plenty of water. Avoid junk food, refined starches, coffee, sugar, tea, and foods high in acidic content. Avoid using soap on your genitals. Be sure to empty your bladder and wash with water after intercourse. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Try to include cabbage, leeks, and garlic in your diet, drink 3 glasses of cranberry juice every day, and take a vitamin C supplement.

Some women get more problems than others, but they generally get a little easier during the second trimester. In general, just make sure to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, get some exercise regularly, eat a well balanced diet, and try to keep an optimistic mindset.

Article by Sandeep Kumar

Pregnancy Week by Week: Week 25 - Week 32

Week 25
You may get cramps now and later on in your pregnancy. Avoid pointing your toes down. The baby may also press against your bladder, causing you to want to pass urine.
The baby’s bone centers are beginning to harden, and tiny veins are visible through the baby skin.

Week 26
You may notice pink streaks in your skin where it has been stretched from underneath. These marks will fade gradually after the birth.
When you speak your voice goes down into your body, and your baby can hear you. The baby’s body is covered with fine, downy hairs, and the skin is beginning to change; instead of being paper-thin and transparent, it is gradually becoming opaque.

Week 27
You will put on weight fairly consistently now until about the 36th week of pregnancy. Start thinking about what to get for the baby and buy things before you become so big that shopping becomes an unpleasant chore.
The baby’s skin is much wrinkled, but it is protected and nourished by a layer of vernix. Around this time, the baby’s eyelids become unfused and it opens its eyes for the first time.

Week 28
Colostrums may leak from your breasts. From now on you may be visiting the doctor every two weeks.
Your baby’s heartbeat speeds up when you speak, and he or she can recognize your voice after birth. The baby is about 38 cm long, weighs around 0.9kg, and its limbs are beginning to fill out and look more rounded.

Week 29
You probably feel as if all your internal organs are being crowded out by the baby. This is pressure on your diaphragm, liver, stomach and intestines.
By now the baby head is more or less in proportion with the rest of its body.

Week 30
It is important to remember to maintain good posture when you are standing or sitting, even though the weight of the baby seems to be dragging you off balance.

Week 31
You may find you get every breathless climbing the stairs or with any mild exertion.
However breathless you are, the baby is getting enough oxygen through the placenta. The baby weighs 1.8 kg. if the weather is hot or you have had a heavy meal, the baby may drowsy.

Week 32
At each heath visit, the doctor will feel the baby’s position. At the same time, they assess the baby’s rate of growth and check its heart.
The baby is 42cm long. It is perfectly formed, but the fat reserves beneath its skin are only gradually laid down. If the baby were to be born at this time, it would still need to be cared for in an incubator and might need help breathing.

article by Sheila Kitzinger

Pregnancy Week by Week : Week 17 - week 24

Week 17
You may sweat more than usual (due to the extra blood in your system) and your nose may feel congested, too. Both are common in pregnancy and will return to normal after the birth. You nay notice that your vaginal secretions are heavier, too.
The growing baby has by this stage pushed the top of the uterus to halfway between your pubic bone and your navel. From now on the baby weighs more than its placenta. The baby will be moving around the uterus and touching its toes and face. It may be aware of – and even be temporarily startled by – loud sounds from outside your body.

Week 18
If this is your first baby, you may become aware of the first prods and general signs of movement, which are definitely nothing to do with indigestion! At last you know that there really is a baby in there! If you are having trouble sleeping at night, you may be able to make yourself more comfortable with extra pillows.
Measuring about 20cm in length, your baby is now beginning the process of testing its reflexes. Babies often move especially energetically during the evening and bounce around like a cork in water. As well as kicking, the baby is now also grasping and sucking. Some babies find their thumbs while still in the uterus and are confirmed thumbs-suckers even before they are born.

Week 19
Now is not too early to start practicing deep relaxation, steady, rhythmic breathing and gentle exercises. Set aside some time each day for this. You may find you are putting on weight on your buttocks as well as your abdomen. Buds for the baby’s milk teeth have formed, and those for the permanent teeth are developing.

Week 20
You will notice your baby is more and more active (often in the evenings), and may be able to see some of its movements. The growing uterus is pushing up against your lungs and pressing your tummy outwards. Your navel may pop out and stay that way until after the birth. Your chest (rather than breasts) has expended and if you do not already have an adjustable bra, now is the time to buy one.
The baby is about 25cm long. Sebum from the sebaceous glands mixed with skin cells and begins to form the protective vernix, which clings to the lanugo all over the baby’s skin, especially on the hairier parts and in creases.

Week 21
You may have heartburn and bring up small amounts of acid fluid. Ask your doctor to recommend antacid tablets. If you take antacid, ensure you have a diet rich in iron and vitamin C.
The baby weighs just under 450g, is moving about freely in the amniotic fluid and kicking, sometimes high in your tummy, at other time low down.

Week 22
Your gums may be swelling because of the pregnancy hormones in your system.
The baby’s fingernails are forming. It is settling into a regular pattern of activity and sleep. It is frequently most active while you are resting, and you may feel that you have a jumping bean inside you.

Week 23
Different parts of the baby can be felt (palpated) through your abdominal wall. You may feel a stitch – like pain at times down the side of your tummy; this is the uterine muscle stretching, and the pain will probably go away after you have had a rest.
Contraction may be more noticeable and more frequent at this stage, gripping and massaging the baby. The baby’s fingernails are almost fully formed.

Week 24
By now the baby’s heart can be heard through a stethoscope or fetal trumpet. The top of your uterus reaches to just above your navel. You may have pain in one or both sides of your lower abdomen, caused by stretching of ligaments attached to your uterus.
The baby is about 32cm long and weighs over 0.5 kg. its vital organs are maturing but its lungs may not be sufficiently developed for survival outside the uterus.

article by Sheila Kitzinger

When is your Baby Due??

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This chart will help you to estimate the date that your baby is due. Look along the column at the figures set in bold type to help you to find the 1st day of your last period. The date below, it is 280 days later and is your estimate day of delivery.

"It is perfectly normal for a baby to arrive 2 weeks before or 2 weeks after this date".

article by Sheila Kitzinger

Pregnancy Week by Week : Week 9 to week 16

Week 9
You may notice an improvement in your skin; this is due to pregnancy hormones. However, your gums may be softer because of these hormones, and you need to be especially careful about dental hygiene.
The baby’s limbs are developing rapidly by this stage, and fingers and toes are beginning to be defined on the hands and feet. The head is starting to look rounded and there is an obvious neck.
The baby is moving about gently to exercise its muscles, although you cannot feel it. At this point it weighs only about as much as a grape.

Week 10
Your uterus has expanded to the size of an orange, but is still hidden away within your pelvis. You should be wearing a bra with good support by now. If you buy a bra that fits your breasts but is adjustable to allow for later chest expansion, you may not need to get another size during the rest of your pregnancy.
The placenta, to which the baby is attached, begins to produce progesterone in a process that is completed by the end of the 14th week, when progesterone is sufficient for the placenta to take over the function of the corpus luteum. The baby’s ankles and wrists are formed, and fingers and toes are clearly visible. The baby has now grown to about 4.5 cm long.

Week 11
If you have felt nauseated during the last week, the sickness may gradually lessen from now onwards. The amount of blood circulating through your body has started to increase, and will go on increasing until about the 30th week. You should be discovering what childbirth classes are available, since they often get booked up early.
Your baby’s testicles or ovaries have formed at this point, as have all its major organs. These will not develop much further, although they continue to grow inside the uterus. The baby is relatively safe from the risk of developing any congenital abnormalities from the end of this week.

Week 12
You will probably have your first antenatal visit this week. The doctor or midwife may be able to feel the uterus by external examination, as is has risen above your pelvis. Arrangements will be made for future appointments, probably once a month until you are 32 weeks pregnant.
The baby’s head is becoming more rounded and its eyelids have formed. Its muscles are developing and it is moving about inside the uterus much more. It is now about 6.5 cm long but still weighs only 18 g.

Week 13
If you had morning sickness this may have gone by the end of this week. From now on your uterus will be enlarging at a regular and noticeable rate. The bag of water that surrounds the baby cushions it from bumps, keeps it at a constant warm temperature and enables it to move freely, turn its head, stretch and bounce around. Your midwife may be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat using a hand-held ultrasound device.

Week 14
You are less tired than you were at the beginning of pregnancy and probably feel fit and active. You may notice a dark line (the linea nigra) down the centre of your abdomen. This will begin to fade after the baby is born. Your nipples and the area around them are also starting to darken. Your uterus is the size of a large grapefruit.
The baby has eyebrows and a small amount of hair has appeared on its head. Its heart can be heard by ultrasound. The baby drinks some of the amniotic fluid and can pass urine. It is receiving all of its nourishment from the placenta and measures about 8 – 9 cm in length.

Week 15
Your clothes are getting too tight. Do not try to cram into tight jeans. To cope with the increased amount of blood circulating in your body and the baby’s need for oxygen, your enlarged heart has increased its output by 20 per cent.
The hair on your baby’s head and brows is becoming coarser. If it has a gene for dark hair, the pigment cells of hair follicles are beginning to produce black pigment.

Week 16
You feel butterflies in your tummy that might be the baby moving. Your waistline is starting to disappear. If you have not already done so, book childbirth education classes. An “early-bird” class might be available to discuss diet, exercise, posture, emotion and health.
The baby is completely formed. From now on its time in the uterus will be spent growing and maturing until it reaches the stage of development where it can survive independently. The baby is 16cm long and weights nearly 135 g.

article by Sheila Kitzinger

Pregnancy Week by Week : Week 1 to Week 8

This week-by-week guide to what happens to you and your baby during pregnancy starts with the third week - the week of conception. You may not be absolutely certain when what was, so be flexible and read about the week before and the week after, too.

Week 3
You have ovulated, and an egg is travelling along one of the two Fallopion tubes towards your uterus. one of the millions of sperm that your partner ejaculated during intercourse has fertilized the egg while it is still inside the Fallopian tube. Your baby is a cluster of cells that multiply as they continue on their journey along the Fallopian tube.

Week 4
You have probably not noticed anything different, although some women have a strange, mettalic taste in their mouths.
The fertilized egg has arrived in your uterus and, after floating in the uterine cavity for about thee days, has embedded itself in the uterine lining. it is nourished from blood vessels in the lining of your uterus, and the placentais beginning to form around it.

Week 5
You are beginning to think that you might be pregnent. Your period is late, but you cannot be sure, because you may feel as though it is about to start at any time. Your breasts are slightly enlarged and tender, and you may find you need to pass urine more often than usual.
The embryo is about 2mm long and would be visible to the naked eye by now. its body has elongated, and a series of tiny bumps has developed along its rounded "back". These will eventually become the spine. The head is becoming distinguishable from the body, and the brain has two lobes. The embryo looks a little like a minute seahorse.

Week 6
You may be feeling nauseous first thing in the morning or when you are cooking a meal. Your vagina has become a bluish or violet colour. From the sixth day after your period was due, sometimes even earlier, you can find out by a urine test whether or not you are pregnant. Your uterus is now the size of a tangerine.
The baby was developed a head and trunk, and a rudimentary brain has formed. Tiny limb buds are starting to appear. By the end of this week the baby's circulation is beginning to function. The jaw and mouth are developing and ten dental buds are growing in each jaw.

Week 7
You may sometimes feel dizzy or faint when standing for a long time. Your breasts are noticeablylarger and small nodules may have appeared and the areolae, while your nipples may have become more prominent. Pregnancy can be confirmed by a vaginal examination.
The limb buds have developed rapidly and look like tiny arms and legs. At the end of these limbs are small indentations that later become fingers and toes. The spinal cord and brain are almost complete, and the head is assuming a human shape. The baby is about 1.3 cm long.

Week 8
You may have "gone off" certain foods and fancy others that were not your favourite food before. Many pregnant women can no longer drink alcohol, even if they previously enjoyed it, and a dislike of cigarettes and tobacco smoke is common. Your hair may seem less manageable than usual. You may also have a slight vaginal discharge.
The baby has all its main organs in a rudimentary form. The eyes and ears are growing. The face is taking on a human shape, and the baby is just under 2.5 cm long.

article by Sheila Kitzinger