Baby Care

Archive for the ‘Pregnancy’ Category

Although it is unlikely that anyone is going to advocate extreme sports holidays or long haul flights as a way of relaxing during your pregnancy, getting away from it all can be a great idea. If your partner can accompany you, even better, as this will give you both the opportunity to enjoy time as a couple, before your new arrival makes his or her entrance. If you are still working, perhaps it is necessary to travel for business, and therefore you may not have a choice about leaving town. Whatever the reason, here are gurgle’s top tips for pregnant travellers to help make your trip as stress free and enjoyable as you can.

• Manage long journeys. Avoiding long-distance travel is the ideal, but if you can’t do that, try to break up your journey into manageable chunks. If you are travelling by car or train, try to break your journey for rest stops and fresh air, and if you are flying long haul, try to avoid the early and later stages of pregnancy and make sure you get up and walk around the plane three or four times during the flight to improve circulation.

• Aim to travel in your second trimester. This is probably the perfect time to travel during your pregnancy, as you should be over the initial bouts of morning sickness and fatigue, and yet not feel too heavy and lethargic as you may do in your final trimester. Check with your airline before you travel to see what their policy is on pregnant travellers. Most airlines will not let you travel after 34 weeks and you may need a note from your midwife to confirm which week of pregnancy you are in.

• Carry your maternity notes. You may already have your maternity notes with you, but if not, just ask your midwife or doctor. It is wise to carry these with you when you are travelling, so that people are alerted to any special conditions should there be an emergency situation.

• Carry snacks to maintain blood sugar levels. To stop yourself from getting hungry and suffering from fatigue, make sure you have a healthy supply of food to nibble on in transit. Try organic sun-dried apricots, bananas or raw vegetables such as carrots, for an instant lift.

• Hydrate yourself. Make sure you sip water throughout your journey. It is easy to become dehydrated, especially in an aeroplane, and this can make you feel groggy, tired and wreak havoc on your skin. Another handy hint is to carry a facial spray. It is possible to buy sprays that contain refined water, or sprays, which contain aromatherapy oils, to keep your skin hydrated.

• Get comfortable. It is likely to be worth your while to invest in a special support pillow. There are lots of different companies nowadays, which design and produce cushions and pillows for pregnant women. They will support your lower back or help you get comfortable while in transit.

• Exercise. Stretching your limbs and walking gently is important and helps you to combat conditions like thrombosis during air travel. If you are driving, take rest stops to walk off the stiffness that car journeys create. In addition, this way you can make frequent stops for the bathroom!

• Relax your mind. Whether it is some gentle music, an audio book or a meditation aid, invest in some new listening material for a long journey. That way, you can pop on some headphones and forget about the world for a while.

• Investigate vaccination requirements. If you are travelling to a different country, ensure that you understand what the vaccination requirements are. Some vaccines may not be suitable for pregnancy and you may need to make alternative plans, if this is the case.

• Moisturise your skin frequently. As well as helping to avoid stretch marks, using good moisturisers on your skin will help you to feel fresh and supple. Try sweet almond oil for your stomach and a natural plant-based cream for your face.

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg doesn’t progress along the fallopian tube to the uterus to implant there (ectopic actually means ‘out of place’). In an ectopic pregnancy, the egg implants outside the uterus – usually in the fallopian tube (around 95 percent of ectopics implant in the fallopian tube, although ectopic pregnancies also can occur in the ovary, cervix, or abdominal cavity) and develops there.

Ectopic pregnancy is rare but if it occurs it can be fatal because the fallopian tube is unable to stretch to accommodate the developing baby and may eventually rupture, causing heavy bleeding. Thankfully, very few ectopic pregnancies progress this far nowadays and very few result in death, due to modern antenatal screening tests.

What causes an ectopic pregnancy?
You’re at higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy if you’re an older mum, if you’ve already had a previous ectopic pregnancy, or if you smoke. Taking drugs to stimulate ovulation also raises your risk, as does becoming pregnant while taking contraceptives or with an IUD in situ. You’re also more susceptible if you have a fallopian tube abnormality, or have had prior surgery, such as a caesarean.

An infection or inflammation of the fallopian tube also can lead to an ectopic pregnancy if the tube becomes partially or completely blocked as a result. Pelvic inflammatory disease, which can be caused by sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, is a common cause of blockages, along with endometriosis (a condition where cells from the lining of the uterus grown elsewhere in the abdominal cavity).

What are the signs of ectopic pregnancy?
One of the reasons ectopic pregnancy is so hard to diagnose is that the symptoms mimic those of a normal pregnancy. With an ectopic pregnancy you’ll still miss a period, may feel more tired than usual, you may feel sick, and your breasts may tingle and feel tender to the touch.

Things will appear to be normal at first but usually before week 10 of your pregnancy you’ll start to notice pain (that can become severe and chronic) on one side of your abdomen, and pain when you go to the toilet. You’ll also bleed – the bleeding is usually either lighter or darer than your normal period, and may also be more watery. At this point it’s common for women with an ectopic pregnancy to assume they are having their period and weren’t actually pregnant at all, or to think they must be having an early miscarriage.

The real giveaway sign that you have an ectopic pregnancy is pain in your shoulder, which occurs if the fallopian tube ruptures and causes internal bleeding. The blood irritates a specific nerve that causes referred pain in the shoulder. You’ll also feel lightheaded and dizzy, and look very pale, due to loss of blood.

Ectopic pregnancy can be diagnosed via blood tests – your levels of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) will be lower than normal if you have an ectopic pregnancy – or, depending on how far along you are, with a transvaginal ultrasound. Your doctor may also carefully insert a needle into the space at the very top of your vagina, behind the uterus and in front of the rectum, since the presence of blood in this area can indicate bleeding from a ruptured fallopian tube.

If you aren’t very far along, these test results may be inconclusive and it’s possible your doctor might adopt a wait-and-see approach under close medical supervision, measuring your hCG levels every day or so (in a normal pregnancy hCG levels double every two days). However, more than half of all women who experience an ectopic pregnancy have no symptoms until they collapse due to fallopian tube rupture and internal bleeding.

Treating ectopic pregnancy
Unfortunately, ectopic pregnancies aren’t viable so if yours is discovered before serious complications arise your doctor may suggest surgical removal of the embryo using keyhole surgery techniques. If your fallopian tube is damaged beyond repair you may be advised to have it removed too, since any scarring could result in another ectopic pregnancy if you get pregnant again. Alternatively, if the pregnancy is detected early enough, you may be able to have a special injection of methotrexate to halt any further embryonic development and dissolve existing cells.

Getting pregnant again after ectopic pregnancy
Some women who have had an ectopic pregnancy have difficulty getting pregnant again, though his is more likely if they were already having fertility problems. Unfortunately the fact you’ve had an ectopic pregnancy does raise your risk of having another by about 15 percent.

You may have heard that you lose a tooth for every pregnancy, but that’s just an old wives’ tale. Oral health is a reflection of your overall health, however, so maintaining proper dental care during pregnancy is especially important.

Pregnancy Gingivitis
It’s quite common to have dental problems during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make gum tissues more susceptible to the bacteria in plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding gums. This “pregnancy gingivitis” can be prevented by brushing and flossing each day. Having your teeth professionally cleaned early in your pregnancy may help prevent most gum problems, too.

Frequent snacking on sugary foods can also contribute to gingivitis. Continually bathing the teeth in plaque and bacteria can cause your gums to swell and bleed, so if you’re eating more often, make sure to brush your teeth more often as well.

The best way to improve gingivitis during pregnancy is to practice excellent oral hygiene. Remember the basics:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional teeth cleanings.

Periodontal Disease and Premature Birth
Proper dental care is especially important during pregnancy, since serious gum disease (periodontal disease) has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. A study by the University of North Carolina showed that women with periodontal disease were seven times more likely to have a baby born too early or too small. Researchers believe that the bacteria that cause periodontal disease enter the bloodstream through the mouth and travel to the uterus, where they trigger the production of prostaglandins, which may cause premature labor. If a baby is born too soon, it can’t reach its full potential weight.

Pregnancy Tumors
During your second trimester you may notice a red, raw, painless lump on your gums. This is called a “pregnancy tumor,” and although it isn’t cancerous, it should be taken seriously. These localized swellings are usually found between the teeth and are believed to be caused by excess plaque. Pregnancy tumors can be surgically removed after the baby is born if they haven’t subsided on their own.

What If I Need a Major Dental Treatment?
Regular dental care is important during pregnancy to prevent oral infections, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, which might affect the baby. Most dentists recommend that you delay major dental treatments until after your baby is born, however. If your pregnancy isn’t obviously showing, be sure you inform your dentist when you arrive for your appointment, since some procedures or medications may be harmful to your unborn child.

If you have a dental emergency, by all means seek appropriate treatment. Although dental anesthetics such as novocaine or lidocaine can pass through the placenta, the doses used in most dental procedures are considered safe. If you do need an anesthetic, make sure it’s given in needle form, since inhaled or intravenous anesthetics increase the odds of miscarriage in the first trimester. Epinephrine is sometimes added to local anesthetics to make them last longer, but it’s recommended that you avoid this use during pregnancy, since it can increase the risk of some minor birth defects.

Antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and erythromycin are safe to use during pregnancy, but avoid tetracycline, which can permanently discolor your unborn child’s developing teeth.

Under emergency circumstances, an X-ray may be necessary to help your dentist determine the health of your teeth and jaw. If not having the x-ray done poses a risk to your health, then have the X-ray– the risk will be minimal, since your uterus will be shielded with a lead apron.

What’s Good for You is Good for Your Baby
Generally speaking, if a dental procedure improves your overall health, it’s probably good for your baby as well, so go ahead with it during pregnancy. Unfortunately, most women don’t visit their dentist during pregnancy, even if they have dental problems. Remember– taking care of yourself is the best way to ensure the health of your child, so do what’s best for both of you and maintain your regular dental care.

For women who have genital herpes, the worry of passing on a herpes infection onto their baby is understandable, but it is not as likely as you might at first think. Most women who have this condition go on to have perfectly normal pregnancies and labors.

The risk of you passing the virus on to your baby comes if you have an active infection during your pregnancy. If this herpes attack is not your first ever attack, then according to NHS information, your baby still only has an 8% chance of being infected, because of the immunity you will both have had time to acquire. So if your herpes infection predates your pregnancy, the risk to your baby is fairly minimal.

If you have your first ever attack of herpes during the early stages of pregnancy, you will be given antiviral drugs to clear up the infection. The biggest risk of passing the infection to your baby comes if you have a herpes attack during the last six weeks of pregnancy.

In these late stages, the baby will have up to a 50% chance of being affected. Again, you will be given antiviral drugs and will probably need to have a cesarean section in order to make certain the baby does not come into contact with the sores that are signs of active infection. A tiny percentage (about 1 in 100,000) of babies will develop neonatal herpes, which may damage the skin, brain and eyes of the newborn.

Symptoms of genital herpes
Genital herpes is spread through sexual intercourse with an infected person. The symptoms of a first time genital herpes outbreak may feel like flu. You may have fevers, chills, muscle aches and headaches. Small bumps on your vaginal area develop into blisters, which burst open into painful sores. The whole area can feel itchy and inflamed and you may have vaginal discharge and pain when you urinate.

There is no cure. The virus lives dormant in your body and for some people, they rarely get attacks, while for others, they experience them more frequently. The first attack can last for a few weeks, but subsequent attacks are usually less painful and get gradually less severe as your body builds up immunity.

If you are planning a pregnancy, or have recently discovered that you are pregnant, and have genital herpes, you must talk to your GP, so that your pregnancy can be carefully monitored.

Recent studies have suggested that antenatal depression is in fact more common than postnatal depression; indeed some research has suggested that as many as 1 in 10 women will experience antenatal depression. This is a fact that’s hardly surprising when you take into account all the hormones flying around your body when you’re expecting!

Pregnancy is a life-changing experience and therefore quite a lot to contend with, as you face both physical and emotional changes. Although it’s quite normal to experience mood swings and emotional highs and lows during pregnancy, if these symptoms are prolonged or if you suffer from any of the following symptoms, you could be suffering from antenatal depression.

What are the symptoms?

There are certain symptoms to look out for which might indicate antenatal depression. These include:

*an inability to concentrate
*feelings of irritability and/or anxiety
*feeling particularly low or sad and crying excessively
*a general lack of interest in anything
*sleeping problems: either a desire to sleep all the time or difficulties in sleeping
*compulsions, such as constantly washing your hands or cleaning things
*issues with food – either a loss of appetite or a tendency to comfort eat
*low self-esteem
*feeling isolated and not wanting to mix with others
*low energy levels
*feelings of guilt and/or panic
*agoraphobia – finding it difficult to leave the house or developing a fear of open spaces
*pessimistic feelings. If these develop into thoughts of a suicidal nature you must talk to your GP immediately

What are the causes?

Pregnancy, for many, is an incredibly exciting time and mums-to-be with antenatal depression may wonder why they’re suffering from this condition, when having a baby is meant to be such a joyous experience. There is no way to predict who will or won’t experience antenatal depression, but there are some contributing factors which are attributed as causes:

* If you’ve decided to take on another major challenge, such as moving house or a new job, then this is likely to add to your stress levels.
* Financial difficulties can also add to your worries, as you may have concerns about how you will provide for your child.
* If you’ve suffered from depression in the past or have a family history of depression, you might be more likely to experience this condition during pregnancy.
* The more complicated your pregnancy, the more prone you might be to antenatal depression; if you’ve been suffering from extreme bouts of morning sickness.
* You might have an increased likelihood of suffering from antenatal depression if you have recently experienced a bereavement.
* Pregnancy can be a stressful and worrying time, especially for first-time mums, as you don’t know what to expect. You may find yourself particularly anxious if it’s taken you a long time to conceive or if you’ve previously experienced a miscarriage.
* It’s important to have a good support network during pregnancy; it’s a time when you really need your friends and family around you, as you will be experiencing a range of physical and emotional changes. If you don’t have this support, it can lead to feelings of isolation which can contribute towards depression.
* You are also more likely to suffer from antenatal depression if your pregnancy was unplanned, as it may take you some time to adjust to the idea of being pregnant – especially if you’re going it alone.
* If you have ever been the victim of abuse you are also more likely to suffer from depression.

Is antenatal depression linked to postnatal depression?

There is no direct link between antenatal and postnatal depression; just because you feel depressed during pregnancy it doesn’t mean these feelings will continue once your baby is born.

What can I do to help?

The best course of action to take if you think you might be suffering from antenatal depression is to consult your GP or midwife immediately. You will be given a proper diagnosis and you may be referred to a counselor. Your doctor might prescribe anti-depressants, depending on the severity of your case.

Eating a healthy diet and taking gentle forms of exercise can also help to boost your self-esteem and mental well-being during pregnancy. Read our feature on Diet for a healthy pregnancy and Exercises recommended through pregnancy to learn more.

It may sound silly, but opening up to your friends and family members can help. This is often easier said than done when you’re feeling depressed, as all you want to do is cut yourself off from the rest of the world, but it’s never a good idea to bottle things up. It doesn’t matter whom you talk to; it could be anyone from a best friend to a neighbor. It’s the very act of talking; the other person is there to listen and help to relieve your burden. You might also find it helpful to chat to other pregnant mums – some of whom may be feeling the same way as you. Joining a pregnancy yoga group and attending antenatal classes are both great ways to meet other mums-to-be; your midwife should be able to recommend groups and classes in your local area.

Most importantly, you should never feel guilty for feeling depressed or low; this is not your fault and there is nothing you could have done to prevent it. The earlier you seek the help of a professional, the better, as the sooner you are diagnosed, the sooner you will be on the road to recovery;you can then begin to enjoy your pregnancy and start to look forward with excitement and anticipation to the birth of your baby.

Women who previously had Cesarean sections can worry that the scar will not be strong enough to support subsequent pregnancies.

The wound in the uterus is almost fully healed three months after delivery, which is why women are told to wait a while before attempting to drive or to lift heavy objects which could put a strain on the uterine scar.

Evidence shows that the uterine scar gets stronger and stronger over time, and that the risk of the scar separating remains small even with a small interval between pregnancies. Gaps of less then six months still have a small but higher risk.

Doctors still advocate women not getting pregnant for at least a year after having Cesarean, so the body has time to heal and the women are emotionally ready for another baby.

There are more complex issues to consider such as your age, how easily you conceived the first time and how ready you feel to go through it all again.

Plenty of women go on to have perfectly normal pregnancies and deliveries even when the gap between pregnancies is short, but bear in mind that pregnancy and birth take their toll on your body, so it’s probably best to leave it for at least six months before trying again.

At least two studies have pointed to the incidence of potential risks if you get pregnant within six months of having a Cesarean. These include a higher risk of your baby being premature and also a slightly higher risk of uterine rupture.

Will I have to have another Cesarean?
In the past women have been told ‘once a Cesarean, always a Cesarean’. This is because of the risk of uterine rupture from the strain of labour contractions on your scar. But this view is changing all the time. Some doctors feel it is safer for women to attempt a VBAC (vaginal delivery after Cesarean, pronounced vee-back) because of the strain on the scar tissue that any repeat Cesareans may have. Seventy per cent of mothers who attempt labour after a Cesarean have successful VBACs.

The general rule is, if the same reasons you had the first Cesarean exist with your second pregnancy, for instance if your baby is breech, you have twins or multiples, you have a very large baby or you fall into a high-risk category, you will probably have a Cesarean again. If you have a straightforward pregnancy there is no reason why you shouldn’t attempt a VBAC.

With all this in mind, the gap that you decide to have between your last pregnancy and the next one is up to you. Some women they will find themselves pregnant again soon after having their first baby, and it’s worth remembering that the risks mentioned above are very small. Even in the case of uterine rupture, the risk is still small and there are steps to take such as avoiding induction when attempting a VBAC. It is more important that you feel ready for a second baby when planning one. Many women who got pregnant relatively soon after a Cesarean found that they had straightforward pregnancies and labour and birth.

How many Cesareans can I have?
There is no set limit for the number of Cesareans a women could or should have. A first Cesarean is fairly straightforward, but subsequent Cesareans can be more complicated and you will need to discuss your individual concerns with your midwife and consultant. Damage to the bladder and bowel during subsequent Cesareans can be an issue, as is the increased risk of infection with a Cesarean. You will be advised by the medical team who assess your pregnancy about a repeat Cesarean but ultimately it is up to you.

The middle months of your pregnancy, or your second trimester – which start around week 12 and continue to week 26 – are the best time to enjoy your pregnancy. Morning sickness, the bane of expectant mums begins to subside and resolve (in most cases), energy levels return and you get better sleep. The risk of miscarriage is also much lower in the second trimester.  And while the symptoms of early pregnancy are now behind you, the third trimester discomforts, when your growing baby puts increased demands on your body, are still some time away.

Even so, as you prepare to make the most of this golden trimester; head off on weekends away, shop for maternity clothes, attend childbirth classes – you need to continue taking care of health because the second trimester is not always hassle-free.

Here is the low-down on mid pregnancy discomforts and how to ease them.

Constipation:
You may notice your stomach looking bloated or experience constipation at this stage of pregnancy because of hormonal changes in the body that relax the bowel and stop food and waste products from moving through the system so easily. To avoid suffering from constipation, drink lots of fluids and eat fibre-rich foods. Piles can also pose a problem if you have constipation, so try not to sit on the loo straining for ages.

Stretch Marks:
As your body starts to change and adapt to your growing baby, you may notice stretch marks slowly appearing on your lower abdomen and sometimes your breasts. Unfortunately there is not much you can do to stop them occurring. Do ask your mother whether she had stretch marks because it seems some women are pre-disposed to them, especially if their mum’s had them. The good news is that they fade with time and are hardly noticeable after a while. The best way to tackle stretch marks, even if they have already started to develop, is to keep your skin super-hydrated by drinking masses of water daily and moisturizing your body with a safe skincare product.

Lower immunity:
You may find yourself suffering from colds and sniffles more frequently because your pregnancy alters your immune system, making you more susceptible to viruses floating around. The best way to protect yourself is to stay fit and healthy with a good diet and gentle exercise.

Breast Tenderness:
Your breast tenderness is not likely to last past the fourth month, when your hormones will stabilize a bit more; although it is possible that they will feel different for the rest of the pregnancy. It is best to stop wearing underwired bras in pregnancy because the wire could affect the delicate changes taking place inside your breasts. Instead invest in one or two non-underwired, comfortable and supportive bras.

Dizziness:
Sometimes in this stage of pregnancy you may start to feel dizzy from time to time especially if you lie on your back. This is because the weight of your uterus presses onto the veins that carry blood from the lower part of your body back to your heart. The flow of blood is then reduced slightly from your brain making you feel dizzy and faint. This can be dangerous for you if you faint and injure yourself or the bump. Avoid lying on your back during the second and third trimester. Instead lie on your left side or prop a pillow underneath you so that you are tilted when lying down.

Low blood sugar levels can also make you feel dizzy in pregnancy. So make sure you eat little snacks between meals to keep your blood sugar up. If you start to feel faint, have a sit-down and a snack. Bananas are great because they provide a rapid source of energy and their natural sugars and potassium can help to reduce swelling, another pregnancy feature that can start to happen soon. Make sure you drink lots of water to avoid dehydration, which can contribute to feelings of dizziness.

Aches and Twinges:
It is also about now that a few pregnancy aches and pains start to happen as your body supports the extra weight of your growing bump. You might start to develop backache from the pressure of your growing baby on your back. Pregnancy yoga can help, as can making sure you are sitting with a good posture at your desk (no crossing those legs).

If you experience slight twinges accompanied by other symptoms, for instance nausea or vomiting, it’s probable that you have gastroenteritis or food poisoning. Neither is likely to harm your baby, so don’t panic. The best thing to do is to get lots of rest and keep yourself hydrated. If you think you have food poisoning, you should consult a doctor just to make sure that you and your baby are fine.

You may also start to notice your feet and ankles puffing up and causing some discomfort. Rotate your feet on your ankles when sitting down, and avoid crossing your legs. Put your feet up whenever you can.

Urine Infection:
If you’re experiencing pain while you pass urine, you could have a urine infection. Don’t worry if it transpires that you are suffering from such an infection, as it can be easily treated with a course of antibiotics.

Round ligament pain:
During your second trimester, you may experience twinges called ’round ligament pain’ in your lower abdomen or groin area. These short, sharp stabbing sensation, or ache, will be felt deep inside your lower groin and abdominal area. You might feel somewhat uncomfortable when you experience these pains, but after 24 weeks, they should fade away. The twinges associated with round ligament pain are often intensified when you’re standing or moving about. It can happen when you are walking, if you cough, or change your body’s position (perhaps as you get out of a car).  To alleviate this, take breaks and when you’re sitting, try to put your feet up to take the pressure off your abdomen. You can also soak in a hot bath, put a warm heat pad on your groin, and sit down until it passes.

The pain should only last for a few seconds, so if you are experiencing a more continuous type of pain, such as a fever, vomiting, painful abdominal cramps, bleeding or backache, you MUST get in touch with your doctor or midwife immediately. In any case, it is probably a good idea to get a diagnosis from your GP to confirm that the discomfort you are feeling is in fact round ligament pain.

Clumsiness:
You may notice you’re more clumsy during pregnancy, knocking things over, stubbing your toes or wobbling slightly as you walk. The reason for this is that your center of gravity has changed because your uterus, baby and therefore most of your weight is focused on the middle of your body. Nothing much you can do here other than stay away from slippery flooring, wear proper footwear and be extra careful when handling delicate (breakable) items.

Breathlessness:
As you near the end of your second trimester, your uterus moves further up your ribcage, squashing your lungs, which may make you feel breathless. If you experience any acute breathing difficulties: shortness or rapidity of breath, seek medical advice immediately. In case of breathlessness, check with your GP that you are not anemic, as you may need an iron supplement.

Tiredness:
You may find you feel tired in the afternoon, a time when you are more bloated and your body retains more water. Pregnancy yoga can help to combat this with a series of stretches that will help to make you feel healthier and also help to stretch those ligaments, especially around the pelvis. The more flexible you are, the easier labour (should) be.  The afternoons are also when you’ll probably feel more tired after being on your feet all day. Try to schedule in an afternoon nap if you can, and if you are still at work, try eating fruit or raisins as a healthy but energizing snack around 3pm. Exercising in pregnancy keeps the blood circulating around your body so try to do a short walk every day.

When to call the doctor
Most women sail through their second trimesters without any major cause for worry other than the usual niggles. But do keep a watch for the following symptoms and tell your doctor or midwife if, at any stage of pregnancy, you get:
•    Flashes before your eyes,
•    Itchy or very swollen hands or feet,
•    Severe pain in your pelvis, abdomen or legs,
•    Nausea and vomiting that doesn’t stop, or
•    Bleeding.

Even if you do not get these symptoms, but feel unwell or sense something wrong, do not hesitate to inform your doctor immediately about it. Rest assured your doctor has been through this with other mums too, before you came along and he is not going to think of you as this over-reacting, hyper mum-to-be. When in doubt always check.
Also, gestational diabetes and high blood pressure are other common conditions which affect many women during pregnancy. If you have any symptoms of these, your doctor will closely monitor your health all through your pregnancy to ensure that everything is under control.

As your due date approaches you’re bound to feel excited about the prospect of holding your baby for the first time. But you’re also likely to feel nervous about the birth itself, especially if this is your first baby. And if you already have a child whose birth was complicated, the fear that history might repeat itself is likely to prey on your mind.

One of the best things you can do to assuage your fears is to find a GP or midwife who shares your philosophy when it comes to birth, and can help you draw up a birth plan of how you’d like your baby’s delivery to be. If you feel you and your GP or midwife don’t click, find another as far ahead of your due date as possible, so you can rest assured that your labor will take place under the care of someone who is in tune with your hopes and wishes.

Another good tactic is to arm yourself with the facts about labor and birth. Read up as much as you can about it and attend childbirth education classes, especially if this is your first baby. The tutor will explain the process and physiology of childbirth, which should help allay any fears you have over your physical ability to give birth. She’ll also explain what might happen if you do have any complications during your labor.

Here are some tips for soothing the most common labor fears and worries:

I’m afraid I won’t know I’m in labor.
Fear not – women who don’t realize it’s the real thing until they feel the urge to push are few and far between. There are various signs that tell you you’re in early labor, including cramping pains across your lower back, and more intense Braxton Hicks contractions. If you’re at all suspicious you’re in labor, call your GP or midwife for advice. They’ll likely want to see you to make sure – and don’t feel embarrassed if it’s false alarm because that’s way better than hanging on so long that you get the urge to push in the car on the way to the hospital!

I’m panicking over the idea of an emergency birth.
The fact is that labor and birth are a long process – typically 15 to 20 hours from first contraction to the moment of birth – with a first baby, making an emergency home birth extremely unlikely. So ignore those movies where the plucky pregnant heroine has to be whisked to hospital at the very first twinge. However, if this is a second or subsequent baby, your cervix will know exactly what it’s supposed to do and the process will usually happen faster, assuming your baby is in a good birth position. As a rule, whether it’s your first or a subsequent baby, as soon as contractions become regular you should make your way to the hospital or birthing center.

I’m worried my water will break at the store.
Only about 10 percent of women’s water breaks before labor actually starts. For many women it happens when labor is well underway, and for some it happens just before the actual delivery. And just to reassure you further, if your water does break in a public place it won’t be the flood of epic precautions that you might have seen on TV and in the movies, because once it happens your baby’s head will move down and seal the exit of your uterus, slowing any flow to a trickle.

I’m terrified of the pain.
We won’t lie to you: labor is painful, though if your pain threshold is high you might find it isn’t completely unbearable. There are tactics you can use to help you cope – breathing techniques, keeping up and active, and natural and/or narcotic pain relief. You also can find out about epidural anesthesia – ask your midwife if the hospital where you are going to have your baby has 24-hour anesthesia, so you’ll be able to opt for an epidural at any time if the pain becomes too much to bear. The bottom line is that you don’t have to suffer the pain of labour if you don’t want to.

I’m scared at the thought of having an epidural.
You may hear birth horror stories that include accounts of epidurals not working properly – for example, they may only numb one side of the body so that the pain of contractions is felt in the other side. This is a remote possibility but it’s very unlikely to happen to you because complications like this are so rare. Short-term side effects, such as a headache afterwards, are more common but they’re easily treated.

I’m nervous about pooping while I push.
This is a possibility you’re bound to obsess over before the delivery but we can assure you that at the time you’re pushing it’ll be the very last thing on your mind. In any case your GP or midwife will have seen it all before and will actually view it as a positive sign that your baby is moving along the birth canal and all is going well.

I’m worried I might need a cesarean.
Although the cesarean rate has increased and headlines imply it’s the birth method of choice for most women, you’re likely to view the prospect with trepidation as your due date nears. You might worry about the surgery itself, as well as the pain you might suffer in the aftermath and your ability to care for your baby if you do need one. Ask your midwife to carefully explain the reasons why a cesarean might be necessary. You’ll only be presented with that option if it’s absolutely necessary for the safe delivery of your baby. If it does happen during your labor, make sure you’re absolutely clear as to why it’s being done. Common reasons include your baby being in an awkward position or your cervix not dilating far enough to allow for her passage out of the uterus.

If your brain has turned to mush now you’re pregnant, you’re not the only one! Many women report being forgetful and absentminded at different stages during pregnancy – in fact it’s referred to as pregnancy brain, and also pregnancy ‘mumnesia’!

Don’t panic about it though – although pregnancy affects women physically, it also affects you mentally too, so while your pregnancy forgetfulness might be frustrating, it’s perfectly normal. In fact, some studies suggest that up to 68 percent of mums-to-be suffer memory lapses, 54 percent have difficulty concentrating (especially when tackling new and/or unfamiliar tasks) and 52 percent suffer from absentmindedness. And don’t expect it to clear up the minute you have your baby – it can continue for the first year or so after the birth, although most will agree this is down to continuous sleepless nights in the early days!

What is pregnancy forgetfulness?

Forgetfulness is the main symptom of pregnancy brain: you’ll forget where you left your purse, and your friends may inform you that you keep repeating yourself! Pregnancy hormones are likely to blame (those hormones have a lot to answer for!): progesterone often causes fatigue in the first trimester (weeks 0-12), and tiredness contributes to short-term memory loss. Its worth remembering that Oxytocin has been shown to have amnesia-like effects during pregnancy and research indicates that the brain cell volume actually shrinks during the third trimester (weeks 29-40).

Evolution may play a role – some experts suggest that this forgetfulness is designed to shield you from outside distractions that may prevent you from focusing on your baby, and that you need to see it as a sign that you need to simplify your life so that your newborn is your main focus.

The emotional side of pregnancy plays a part in your forgetfulness. Many women report their symptoms are worse during the first and third trimesters, and if you think about it that makes sense. In the first trimester you’ll be overwhelmed by starting on this incredible journey and exhausted by the changes your body is going through. In the final trimester you may not be sleeping well, and may be worried about the birth, your baby’s health, and the changes you are about to experience.

Don’t worry, pregnancy brain isn’t actually harmful  – but where it can cause problems is after your baby is born, if your memory lapses are putting her safety at risk. If for example, you are forgetting to buckle her into her car seat or you keep losing your car keys on a regular basis you may need some extra help. Getting more sleep can help – but often this is easier said than done.

Tips to help you cope with pregnancy forgetfulness.
Sleep is a key factor in helping you combat the effects of pregnancy brain. Get as much as you can and don’t fight the overwhelming fatigue that can strike in the first trimester – go to bed early if you need to, cut back on socialising, and eat a healthy, energy-boosting diet. Sleep may be difficult to come by as your baby’s due date nears. Use pillows to support your bump in bed at night, and if you find you’re having to get up several times to go to the bathroom, cut back on the amount of fluid you drink after 6pm. Drink plenty of fluids during the day to avoid dehydration, which can exacerbate memory problems and confusion. Avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee and soda, as caffeine is a diuretic and can cause you to become dehydrated.

Another good coping strategy is to write down things that you really need to remember – for example, appointments, reminders of when your baby needs his next vaccination ¬ on a dry-wipe board or chalkboard and hang it somewhere prominent so you can’t help but see it. Keep a notepad and pen in your purse for reminders when you’re out and about. Remember that you also can use your, Blackberry, laptop, or other electronic organizer to remind you about things and help you stick to a routine.

Pregnant women deserve to look just as good as their non-pregnant counterparts. You can look and feel great during your first, second and through your third trimester. There is no reason to walk around wearing sweatpants when various fashionable and often inexpensive maternity wear exists. There are also some tips and tricks you can use to minimize the expense often associated with buying maternity fashions.

The first step toward looking great during pregnancy is feeling good about the changes occurring in your body. Some women grimace at the idea of gaining weight, though they are overly excited about having a baby. Remember that a pregnant woman is the most beautiful woman on earth. The better you feel about yourself the more likely you are to look and feel great, even in a pair of your husband’s old sweatpants and a dirty t-shirt. Fortunately, you can get by with a few well selected pieces that will keep you feeling fashionable and hip throughout your pregnancy.

First Trimester Fashion
During your first trimester of pregnancy you can probably stick with most of the items already hanging in your closet. This is especially the case if this is your first pregnancy. Most women don’t start showing until sometime in the early second trimester. Most women find during the later half of their first trimester their pants begin to feel a little snug. The rubber band trick works well for keeping pants and jeans comfy until you really need to move into maternity clothes. Simply loop a rubber band through the button and top loop of your pants to provide you a little extra fastening room.

Second Trimester And Beyond
Once you hit your fourth or fifth month you’ll start expanding and looking for maternity wear to accommodate your growing figure. Fortunately you can find fashionable and chick maternity wear without breaking your bank. One of the easiest solutions is buying a 4-piece kit that provides you with some basic maternity essentials you can mix and match through your pregnancy. You should look for the following pieces:

* Stretch pant that accommodates your growing belly
* Slim skirt with belly panel
* Dress
* 3/4 sleeve top

Aside from these essentials there are other items you may want to include in a basic maternity wardrobe. While your personality, budget and personal preferences will ultimately decide the style of clothing you prefer, there are a few items you can buy as separates that will last you your entire pregnancy. Some women consider the following items must haves during their pregnancy.

1. Tunic length sweater – This will help keep you warm on chilly days and will adjust to accommodate your belly as it grows.
2. Stretch Pants – Stretch pants are a must have during pregnancy. If you get a khaki or black pair you can be sure they’ll go with anything at any time of the year.
3. T-shirt – Or two for that matter. You can buy one or two tees that go with and under just about anything.
4. Button Down Shirt – You can dress this up and accessorize for work or other more formal functions.
5. Undergarments – There is maternity underwear you can buy, though most women find they can get away with a larger size bikini version of their normal underwear. You may decide midway into your pregnancy however to buy a well fitting maternity bra. Be sure if you do you buy one that will accommodate your increasing breast size as your pregnancy continues.
6. Tank Top – Every pregnant woman should have a tank top they can wear throughout their pregnancy. You’ll find as your pregnancy continues you tend to feel hotter and hotter. You may be surprised to find yourself lounging on the couch in a tank top in the dead of winter.
7. Jeans – Every pregnant woman should have a pair of jeans that fits them well. You don’t have to resign yourself to a panel pair of ugly jeans. There are plenty of hip styles that fit under the belly during early pregnancy, and those with flattering panels or full stretch capability for later in pregnancy. Look for jeans with built in stretch in order to maximize your comfort throughout your pregnancy.

Accessorizing During Pregnancy
You can get buy with a skirt, dress, pair of slacks and couple of blouses even if you work in corporate American during your pregnancy. The key to freshening your outfit is accessories. The more accessories you have the better. You can accessorize your outfits from day to day to keep them looking and feeling fresh. That way the fiftieth time you show up to work in your slim fit pregnancy skirt, you don’t feel like a fashion flunky. Flowers, bright scarves, chunky jewelry, pins… find anything and everything you can use to accentuate your features and liven up your maternity wear.

While having a huge maternity wardrobe may be convenient, most women find it is really unnecessary during pregnancy. Stick to a few basic yet classic pieces and you’ll find you look and feel great from months one to nine.