Pregnancy

Here are definitions of medical terms related to pregnancy: Alpha-fetoprotein: A fetal protein normally present in the blood and amniotic fluid of pregnant women. High or low levels can be associated with certain birth defects. The protein is also abnormally present in adults with liver cancer. Amniotic fluid: The fluid in which the fetus develops. Amniotic sac: A […]

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on pregnancy: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists  http://www.acog.org March of Dimes  http://www.modimes.org Childbirth.org  http://www.childbirth.org National Institutes of Health  http://www.nih.gov National Institute of Child Health and Human Development  http://www.nichd.nih.gov/ American Pregnancy Association  Pregnancy Symptoms – Early Signs of Pregnancy Cord Blood Banking Information Provides information

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to pregnancy: Having a baby is one of the most important events in a woman’s life. Most women worry about whether the baby they are carrying is healthy. Early and regular prenatal care is the best insurance against problems in pregnancy. Prenatal tests usually

While a missed period is one of the biggest clues that a woman is pregnant, it’s usually not the first sign. Some women suspect they are pregnant before their menstrual cycle is late. Symptoms that might indicate you are pregnant include: Tenderness of the breasts and nipples Fatigue (1-6 weeks after conception) Frequent urination (6-8

The entire process of pregnancy-from conception to birth-takes about nine months, or 40 weeks of pregnancy. The pregnancy is divided into three-month periods known as trimesters. The First Trimester (Weeks 1 to 13) The first three months of fetal development are, perhaps, the most important. During the first 60 days, most of the baby’s organs

Women should plan a doctor’s visit early in pregnancy. A woman’s health during those first weeks is crucial to normal fetal development. Many doctors schedule prenatal visits monthly for the first 28 weeks of pregnancy, every two weeks from 28 to 36 weeks, and weekly during the last month. Prenatal visits usually include routine blood

Some tests, called indicated tests, are usually reserved for women who are considered at increased risk due to something her medical or genetic history or an abnormal result in a screening test. However, some indicated tests, such as ultrasound, are being used more often during pregnancy, regardless of whether the mother or fetus is at

Most pregnancies are uncomplicated and end with the birth of a normal, healthy baby. Early diagnosis and treatment of any complications will often prevent serious problems. Regular check-ups can help you learn to recognize the difference between the normal changes and those that can indicate a problem. Problems during pregnancy include: Birth defects Ectopic pregnancy

No two births are alike. Labor is a series of changing conditions, and no amount of examination can predict how a woman or her baby will respond. What Type Of Delivery Is Best? The mother’s health and/or baby’s condition will largely determine the type of delivery. Vaginal birth is the traditional style of delivery in which

Here are some frequently asked questions related to pregnancy: Q: Is spotting a reason for concern? A: One in five women experience light spotting early in pregnancy. However, heavy bleeding can indicate a serious problem. Call your doctor right away at any sign of blood. Q: How much do I need to eat when I’m pregnant?