Pregnancy 101

Being pregnant is a time that is filled with excitement, anxiety and confusion. One of the first things you will need to do is confirm that you are in fact pregnant. The most common sign of pregnancy is missed, late or unusual periods. Other signs can include:

• light spotting
• cramping
• swollen or tender breasts
• fatigue
• nausea
• back and head-aches
• increased urination
• darkening of skin around nipples
• food cravings

If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms and been sexually active, you may be pregnant and should consult with a gynecologist. Your gynecologist will be able to do blood tests and confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

My First Prenatal Visit

Once you have confirmed that you are pregnant know that each woman experiences pregnancy in a different way, and no matter how many times a particular woman has been pregnant, each of her pregnancies will be different, too. Pregnancy is a physical and emotional transformation like no other.

The staff at The Woman’s Clinic is well educated and trained to handle your developing needs and concerns. Our aim is to see you through a healthy pregnancy and help you feel comfortable with the changes going on in your body. They are more than willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have and will be there beside you during every step of the pregnancy to help you have the best pregnancy possible.

The joy of pregnancy and parenthood cannot be experienced without some level of pain and discomfort, which for most women is temporary. Morning sickness is one of the most well-known symptoms of pregnancy. Most mild cases of nausea or vomiting do not harm you or your baby’s health. Morning sickness only becomes a problem when you cannot keep any food or fluids down and you begin to lose weight. Getting up slowly in the morning and sitting on the side of the bed for a few minutes might help ward off some of the morning sickness. Eating dry toast or crackers also may help. It’s important to get plenty of fresh air and taking a short walk could help. If your naseau or vomiting become severe it is important to contact your gynecologist. Your gynecologist may also be able to provide you with additional ways to help reduce or eliminate morning sickness.

Other common pregnancy complaints are:

• appetite changes
• backaches
• breast changes
• constipation
• dizziness
• hair loss
• heartburn
• hemorrhoids
• insomnia
• leg cramps
• migraines
• nausea
• nerve pain
• overall aches and pains
• skin changes
• sleeping
• stretch marks
• swelling
• urination frequency
• vaginal discharge

If you any of these conditions become prolonged or increase in intensity be sure to talk with your gynecologist. Don’t be afraid to talk to your gynecologist about any questions or concerns you may have. Feel free to call The Woman’s Clinic at 601-808-5383.

Another common change that women experience during pregnancy is mood swings, which are more common during the first and third trimesters. These emotional changes can range from fatigue, physical stresses to shifting hormonal levels. Below are some of the ways to help keep yourself calm and as stress free as possible and to help bring you some emotional balance.

Adequate sleep – We recommend that you get on average 8 hours of sleep per night. If you are having trouble sleeping you can use Tylenol, Tylenol pm and Benadryl in moderation, but consult with your gynecologist before doing so.

Good nutrition – Just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean you have to double your calorie intake in order to “eat for two.” Most women only need an extra 300 calories per day to appropriately gain weight during their pregnancy.

Relaxation- don’t be afraid to take a day just to sit back and relax or have a manicure or pedicure.

Physical Activity- get out and take a walk but be sure to talk with your gynecologist before starting any excersie routines

Massage – We recommend pregnancy massage after 13 weeks by a therapist who is licensed in pregnancy massage

Spend time with family and friends

Yoga or meditation

Do something fun: shop, see a movie, go out to eat