Internet human health care and pregnancy
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How does Internet human health care help in human pregnancy? Women and teens have so many questions that they previously had to make an appointment with a doctor to ask and get answers. Nowadays, Internet human health care makes it possible to get answers to various relevant questions without a doctor’s appointment. Education of new medical students is possible through Internet human health care. Existing doctors can get educated through Internet human health care. |
| Self completion medical history form - Pregnancy |
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Annotation or Definition
What is human pregnancy? What should you know about human pregnancy? How does a woman get pregnant? How do you conclude in the first trimester that a woman is pregnant? How long does a normal pregnancy last? What complications can occur during pregnancy? What are the symptoms or signs of complications during pregnancy? What medicines are contraindicated during pregnancy? What procedures should not be done during pregnancy? What are various obstetrical and gynecological emergencies? Adolescent Girls Teen. What is an adolescent girl? What are other names for adolescent Girl? What do you know about an adolescent girl? Here are further guidelines. Abortion (Medical termination of pregnancy.) What is abortion? What are the indications of medical termination of pregnancy? What should happen if these guidelines are violated? Who may violate these guidelines? Do you know any such situation or incident? Here are further guidelines. Communication Guidelines for Healthy Sex How do I get my spouse to communicate better with me? How can I get my spouse to open up and talk with me? How can I communicate effectively with my spouse? Contraception What is contraception? What different types of contraception are there? Here are further guidelines. Diet Is there anything you should do around the time of conception like eat anything specific or take supplements? Discomforts of Pregnancy What questions do you have about feeling sick or uncomfortable while you are pregnant? Diagnosing Pregnancy How do you know if you are pregnant? What are the signs of pregnancy? How can you detect pregnancy? Emergencies Human Pregnancy Emergencies Emergency Contraception Pregnancy Complications Questions What are examples of human pregnancy emergencies? What human pregnancy emergencies or complications need on-the-spot diagnosis and treatment? What symptoms, signs, and/or complaints indicate a human pregnancy emergency? What complications can occur during pregnancy? What is the difference between emergency contraception, the "morning after pill", and the "day after pill"? What medicines are contraindicated during pregnancy? What procedures should not be done during pregnancy? What are various obstetrical and gynecological emergencies? Is Bleeding During Pregnancy cause for alarm? What are the stages of Cervical Dilation? Do I have Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms? Can my Gestational Diabetes Symptoms mean something else? Can I stop Intrauterine Growth Retardation? Can Placenta Abruption and Placenta Previa be caused by me? When Post Term Pregnancy begin? What do Preeclampsia Symptoms mean and what can I do? Can Pregnancy Anemia be cured with diet? When will this Morning Sickness and Nausea end??? Is Preterm Labor dangerous for my baby? What are the Signs of Miscarriage? When should I Call the Doctor if I am worried? What medical history and physical examination is required in a pregnancy emergency? Here are further guidelines. Exercise during pregnancy Are there any types of exercise that aren’t safe during pregnancy? Does pregnancy change how your body responds to exercise? Once your baby is born, when can you start exercising again? >/font> Female Sexual Problems When is the right time to seek help for sex issues? How can counselling help sex issues? What are female sexual problems? What causes female sexual problems? How do you know when to seek help? How do you get help? Fertility myths Are women with bigger breasts usually more fertile? Gender Prediction Questions Will (Oriental) Birth Calendar predict a baby boy or a baby girl? Is the (Oriental) Pregnancy Calendar really accurate? Does an ovulation calculator really work? Infant Feeding How do you plan to feed your baby? What questions do you have about breastfeeding? Labor and Birth Questions How do I time labor contractions? What is Braxton-Hicks? What should I Expect in Labor and Birth? What happens in the delivery room after the Baby is Born? What Happens immediately after Birth? Labor, Delivery and Recovery Rooms Labor, Delivery and Recovery Rooms Lifestyle If you could recommend one lifestyle change over all others to enhance your chances of getting pregnant what would it be? Medical history relevant to this medical condition What medical history should you seek relevant to this issue? What human pregnancy emergencies or complications need on-the-spot diagnosis and treatment? What symptoms, signs, and/or complaints indicate a human pregnancy emergency? Medicolegal cases Is this a medicolegal case? If this is a medicolegal case, what are the details? Miscarriage What is a Miscarriage? Why do miscarriages occur? What are the chances of having a Miscarriage? Here are further guidelines. Ovulation Is there an average number of days post last day of your period, that you ovulate? Premature Labor What health complications can result from premature labor? Here are further guidelines. Prenatal Nutrition Premarital care What is fidelity? What are conjugal rights? What are his rights? What are her rights? Here are further guidelines. Prenatal care What type of family centric counseling is mandatory before conception? Here are further guidelines. Parenting What is included in parenting advice? Here are further guidelines. Periods Can you still get pregnant if you have sex during your period? Premature Labor Pregnancy Nutrition & Fitness Questions What's your pregnancy nutrition IQ? When can I start Postpartum Fitness regimen? Where can I find Pregnancy Diet and Fitness tips? What is the best level of Pregnancy Fitness? How fast will my Pregnancy Weight Gain come off? Quiz: Test Your Pregnancy Nutrition IQ Postpartum When will the uterus return to normal size? When can women resume sexual intercourse after pregnancy? Here are further guidelines. Pregnancy Calendar Questions Pregnancy Week by Week Pregnancy Month by Month(Fetal Development/ Physiology of normal pregnancy. ) What is the first trimester (week 1-week 12)? What is the second trimester (week 13-week 28)? What is the third trimester (week 29-week 40)? How will my baby develop week by week? What are the changes that happen to a woman's body during her 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy? What are all the Pregnancy Terms I should know? Can I find any General Pregnancy Information here? What do they look at during Prenatal Testing? How do I keep track of my Pregnancy Weekly? What happens in the First Month of Pregnancy? What happens during my Pregnancy in Month 2? What is important for my Pregnancy in Month 3? What happens during my Pregnancy in Month 4? What is important for my Pregnancy in Month 5? What happens during my Pregnancy in Month 6? What is important for my Pregnancy in Month 7? What happens during my Pregnancy in Month 8? What is important for my Pregnancy in Month 9? What happens during my Pregnancy in the First Trimester? What is important for my Pregnancy in the Second Trimester? What happens during my Pregnancy in the Third Trimester? Pregnancy Danger Signs Pregnancy, birth control, fertility Q: What are the symptoms of pregnancy? Q: What days of the month can a woman get pregnant? Relevant anatomy, physiology, or biochemistry Human female reproductive system What human anatomy should one know relevant to this medical condition? What human physiology should one know relevant to this medical condition? What human biochemistry should one know relevant to this medical condition? What is the female reproductive system? Where is the female reproductive system found? What does the female reproductive system do? How does the female reproductive system work? STD symptoms, treatments, and prevention Q: How are herpes and warts transmitted? What are the risks? Q: Can you tell me about visible sores on genitalia or other body parts? Q: What is BDSM? Sex Sexual positions Sexual Positions for Intercourse Is there a particular sexual position that can help you get pregnant more easily? How long does it take to get pregnant? Here are further guidelines. Symptoms and signs What are the first symptoms of pregnancy? How long after conception does the fertilized egg implant? What is the most accurate pregnancy test to use? Is cramping during pregnancy normal? Why do pregnant women feel tired? What is the difference between an embryo, a fetus and a zygote? Early Pregnancy Questions - Are You Pregnant? How can I calculate my due date? Thinking about Trying To Conceive? What are the common Early Pregnancy Symptoms? Will my Breast Tenderness go away soon? Can I do anything about my Pregnancy Constipation? Are Pregnancy Food Cravings and Aversions for real? How bad will my Pregnancy Dizziness get? Is there a reason I have so much Pregnancy Fatigue? When will this Frequent Urination during Pregnancy stop? Why am I having these Headaches during Pregnancy? What is Implantation Bleeding, and what are the symptoms? Does Pregnancy really cause Lower Back Pain? If I have Missed my period does that mean I am pregnant? Why do I have Mood Swings? Do I have Morning Sickness? What are the Signs and Symptoms of Early Pregnancy? Smoking I know smoking affects your fertility but if you give up is the damage permanent? Sleep Problems in Pregnancy How does pregnancy affect sleep? How should I position myself for sleep during pregnancy? How much sleep do you really need? Why does pregnancy cause fatigue? Stretch marks Is there anything you can do to prevent stretch marks? Trying to Conceive (Getting Pregnant) Ultrasound in Pregnancy What is ultrasound? How does ultrasound work? Why is an ultrasound done? What will happen during the ultrasound? What can an ultrasound find? Does a normal ultrasound mean I will have a healthy baby? Is ultrasound safe? What are the benefits of ultrasound? How is ultrasound used in women's health care? How is ultrasound used during pregnancy? How many ultrasound exams will I have during my pregnancy? Where is an ultrasound exam done? Who performs the ultrasound exam? What type of ultrasound exam will I have? What do I need to do to prepare for a transabdominal ultrasound exam? What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound exam? What is a specialized ultrasound exam? What are the types of specialized ultrasound exams? What is Doppler ultrasound? What are 3D and 4D ultrasound? What is sonohysterography? What are the risks of ultrasound exams? Here are further guidelines. Weight Are women who carry fat in their stomach area more likely to have difficulty conceiving than those who carry weight all over? What to Eat During Pregnancy What questions do you have about what you should eat while you are pregnant? What do you eat on a typical day? |
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Communication Guidelines for Healthy Sex Q: How can I communicate effectively with my partner? A: Many of the questions we get at the switchboard involve communication with one’s partner as an underlying component. Communication can be very difficult, even between people who genuinely want to understand each other. But communication is also a skill, and like any skill, it can be improved with practice and knowledge. In that spirit, here are 13 “keys to effective communication” that one of our switchboard volunteers has developed. 1. Environment and availability. Is this the right time and place to be having this discussion? A crowded theater is probably not the best place to hash out relationship problems. Are both parties available to talk here and now? If one or both partners are sleepy, inebriated, upset, or in the middle of something else, it will be difficult to have a clear and productive exchange. Be sure that you have time enough to talk it out, that you will be relatively free of distractions, and that you are in a safe place to discuss what you need to discuss. 2. Commitment and desire. Do both partners actually want to talk about the issue at hand? Do you both agree on what that issue is? Are both partners ready and willing to have this discussion? If not, one partner is likely to be talking at a partner who is tuned out, rather than with a partner who is engaged. 3. Individual clarity. Before starting a serious discussion, it is important to have some degree of clarity about your own thoughts and feelings. Do you know what your goals for the discussion are, and where your limits might be? Has your partner had any chance to think about the issue at hand, or will this be a surprise to him/her? Does one or both of you need more time to sort out individual positions before working on the interpersonal issue? 4. Hidden agendas. Is there a discrepancy between the overt agenda (i.e., what you agree that you are going to talk about) and any covert agendas (i.e., what you really want to get out of this interchange). Seduction is a common covert agenda: you say you want to talk about a given issue, but you actually want to get into the other person’s pants. 5. Body language and nonverbal communication. What you say can be emphasized or undermined by how you say it. If you are shouting about how calm you are, your message is confused and confusing. Think of yourself as an actor with a script: do your tone and carriage match your lines? How about your partner? 6. “I” statements. Rather than talking about your partner’s flaws, inadequacies, errors, and ignorance, try to focus on your own feelings, thoughts, and needs. “I feel hurt and lonely when you stay out late” is much less likely to be perceived as an attack than “You’re late again; you don’t give a damn about our relationship.” It is easier for your partner to hear the former than the latter. “You” statements tend to engender defensiveness and arguments, rather than empathic attunement. Beware of the false “I” statement: “I feel that you are wrong.” 7. Paraphrasing and active listening. Try to repeat back to your partner what he or she just said to you before responding. This serves two purposes. First, it shows your partner that you are listening carefully to what they are saying; second, it gives your partner an opportunity to clear up any misperceptions or misstatements. 8. Questions. Asking your partner to clear up things you don’t understand is central to achieving a positive outcome. This is the opposite of mind reading, where you assume that you know what your partner means without asking. Questions come in two basic flavors: open-ended and closed-ended. Closed-ended questions seek out a specific piece of information (and no more), while open-ended questions invite a partner to give as much information as s/he wants. Closed-ended questions can be used (or perceived) as traps (e.g., “Do you feel angry when I say that?” as opposed to “How do you feel when I say that?”). “Why” questions, however innocent, are often perceived as hostile: try to avoid them if possible. 9. Negotiation. Once you and your partner have clarified your concerns and positions, you are ready to begin negotiating a solution: “Here’s the issue, here’s what I need, here’s what you need, what shall we do about it?” 10. Compromise. Within your limits, where can you meet your partner? Is there any middle ground? If either of you is completely unwilling to compromise or change, your discussion is unlikely to be productive. If both of you have some give and take, and both are willing to bend, your chances of successful resolution are good. Compromise is not the same as caving in: if you are in no position to stand firm, you are in no position to compromise. 11. Consensus. Having discussed the issue, are both parties agreed on the content of the discussion? If changes are to be made, do both parties understand what is to happen, when, and how? Changes that are measurable and verifiable (e.g., “I agree to be home or to call by ten o’clock.”) are less likely to cause further conflict than changes that are vague or “fuzzy” (e.g., “I agree to be more supportive.”). 12. Closure. When you are done, check to see how you and your partner are feeling. Are there residual hurt feelings that need to be addressed? 13. Follow-up. Agree to check back in after some time has passed to see whether the agreed-upon changes are working, whether any new information has entered the picture, or if anyone has further issues or feelings that need to be talked through. Rather than leave it open, it is best to agree on a specific time to check back in. 14. Both partners need to make a commitment to engage in a discussion about intimate concerns. 15. Choose a quiet time for discussion when you are not likely to be interrupted. Give your undivided attention to being with your partner. 16. Sit reasonably close to each other and maintain eye contact. Be aware of the tone and volume of your voice. 17. Avoid blaming, name-calling, accusations and sarcasm. 18. Deal with only one issue at a time. 19. State specifically and clearly what you feel and need. Use "I statements", rather than "you statements." (Example: Say "I felt rejected when you didn't want to hug last night" rather than "You're so cold; the way you treat me is cruel.") 20. Maintain an optimistic perspective that change is possible. Avoid bringing up resentments from the distant past. Refrain from using the words "always" or "never". 21. Listen to your partner. Strive to understand each other's feelings and needs. Communicate that understanding to your partner. (You can communicate understanding and still have a different opinion or perspective than your partner). 22. When discussing sexual intimacy concerns, keep in mind that partners are apt to feel scared, embarrassed, or hurt. Emphasize what you like and what works well before making a new request or discussing something that bothers you. 23. Avoid getting sidetracked on irrelevant issues; "It happened in 2005." "No, it was 2004." Refrain from "I'm right, you're wrong" arguments. 24. Explore and discuss various options for change. Work together to brainstorm how individual needs can be met and feelings addressed more effectively. Make the issue the "problem", not each other. 25. See intimate problems as a normal, natural part of a relationship. Turn them into opportunities to learn and grow as a couple. 26. If you and your partner agree to a solution to the problem, try it out, then plan to discuss in the near future how the solution is working for both of you. 27. Give yourselves permission to table discussion of an issue if you feel no progress is being made. You each may get new insights and understandings thinking about it independently. Make sure you resume discussion within several days. 28. Seek professional help when needed. Don’t allow unresolved sexual issues to fester and erode your positive feelings for each other. Emergencies What human pregnancy emergencies or complications need on-the-spot diagnosis and treatment? |
| Maliciously impregnated (medico-legal case that needs emergency contraception). |
| Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery |
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What symptoms, signs, and/or complaints indicate a human pregnancy emergency? Here are further guidelines. |
| What symptoms, signs, and/or complaints indicate a human pregnancy emergency? |
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If you know any female of childbearing age maliciously impregnated, report an emergency (emergency contraception). Danger signs during pregnancy Call your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms during your pregnancy: Abdominal or epigastric pain Dizziness, blurred or double vision and spots before your eyes Fever over 101° and chills Hard, rigid abdomen with severe pain Noticeable decline in fetal movement Painful, difficult or scanty urination Persistent vomiting Sudden gush of fluid from the vagina Severe headaches Swelling around the eyes with accompanying swelling of the hands (some swelling in the legs and feet can be normal) Seizure(Convulsion) Vaginal bleeding |
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What are examples of human pregnancy emergencies?
There are at least 13 human pregnancy emergencies. |
| Abruptio Placentae |
| Ectopic pregnancy |
| Placenta previa |
| Preeclampsia & Eclampsia |
| Premature rupture of membranes |
| Obstetrical emergencies during labor and delivery |
| Amniotic fluid embolism |
| Placenta accreta |
| Shoulder dystocia |
| Uterine inversion |
| Uterine rupture |
| Umbilical Cord Prolapse |
| Obstetrical emergencies postpartum |
| Postpartum Hemorrhage |
| Postpartum infections |
| Health problems during pregnancy | ||
| Problem | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Anemia – Lower than normal number of healthy red blood cells |
| Treating the underlying cause of the anemia will help restore the number of healthy red blood cells. Women with pregnancy related anemia are helped by taking iron and folic acid supplements. Your doctor will check your iron levels throughout pregnancy to be sure anemia does not happen again. |
| Depression – Extreme sadness during pregnancy or after birth (postpartum) |
| Women who are pregnant might be helped with one or a combination of treatment options, including:
A mother's depression can affect her baby's development, so getting treatment is important for both mother and baby. Learn more about depression during and after pregnancy. |
| Ectopic (ek-TOP-ihk) pregnancy – When a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube |
| With ectopic pregnancy, the egg cannot develop. Drugs or surgery is used to remove the ectopic tissue so your organs are not damaged. |
| Fetal problems – Unborn baby has a health issue, such as poor growth or heart problems |
| Treatment depends on results of tests to monitor baby's health. If a test suggests a problem, this does not always mean the baby is in trouble. It may only mean that the mother needs special care until the baby is delivered. This can include a wide variety of things, such as bed rest, depending on the mother's condition. Sometimes, the baby has to be delivered early. |
| Gestational diabetes – Too high blood sugar levels during pregnancy |
| Most women with pregnancy related diabetes can control their blood sugar levels by a following a healthy meal plan from their doctor. Some women also need insulin to keep blood sugar levels under control. Doing so is important because poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of:
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| High blood pressure (pregnancy related) – High blood pressure that starts after 20 weeks of pregnancy and goes away after birth |
| The health of the mother and baby are closely watched to make sure high blood pressure is not preeclampsia. |
| Hyperemesis gravidarum (HEYE-pur-EM-uh-suhss grav-uh-DAR-uhm) (HG) – Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy — more extreme than "morning sickness" |
| Dry, bland foods and fluids together is the first line of treatment. Sometimes, medicines are prescribed to help nausea. Many women with HG have to be hospitalized so they can be fed fluids and nutrients through a tube in their veins. Usually, women with HG begin to feel better by the 20th week of pregnancy. But some women vomit and feel nauseated throughout all three trimesters. |
| Miscarriage – Pregnancy loss from natural causes before 20 weeks. As many as 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Often, miscarriage occurs before a woman even knows she is pregnant | Signs of a miscarriage can include:
* Spotting early in pregnancy doesn't mean miscarriage is certain. Still, contact your doctor right away if you have any bleeding. | In most cases, miscarriage cannot be prevented. Sometimes, a woman must undergo treatment to remove pregnancy tissue in the uterus. Counseling can help with emotional healing. See our section on Pregnancy loss. |
| Placenta previa – Placenta covers part or entire opening of cervix inside of the uterus |
| If diagnosed after the 20th week of pregnancy, but with no bleeding, a woman will need to cut back on her activity level and increase bed rest. If bleeding is heavy, hospitalization may be needed until mother and baby are stable. If the bleeding stops or is light, continued bed rest is resumed until baby is ready for delivery. If bleeding doesn't stop or if preterm labor starts, baby will be delivered by cesarean section. |
| Placental abruption – Placenta separates from uterine wall before delivery, which can mean the fetus doesn't get enough oxygen. |
| When the separation is minor, bed rest for a few days usually stops the bleeding. Moderate cases may require complete bed rest. Severe cases (when more than half of the placenta separates) can require immediate medical attention and early delivery of the baby. |
| Preeclampsia (pree-ee-CLAMP-see-uh) – A condition starting after 20 weeks of pregnancy that causes high blood pressure and problems with the kidneys and other organs. Also called toxemia. |
| The only cure is delivery, which may not be best for the baby. Labor will probably be induced if condition is mild and the woman is near term (37 to 40 weeks of pregnancy). If it is too early to deliver, the doctor will watch the health of the mother and her baby very closely. She may need medicines and bed rest at home or in the hospital to lower her blood pressure. Medicines also might be used to prevent the mother from having seizures. |
| Preterm labor – Going into labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy |
| Medicines can stop labor from progressing. Bed rest is often advised. Sometimes, a woman must deliver early. Giving birth before 37 weeks is called "preterm birth." Preterm birth is a major risk factor for future preterm births. |
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Infections during pregnancy During pregnancy, your baby is protected from many illnesses, like the common cold or a passing stomach bug. But some infections can be harmful to your pregnancy, your baby, or both. This chart provides an overview of infections that can be harmful during pregnancy. Learn the symptoms and what you can do to keep healthy. Easy steps, such as hand washing, practicing safe sex, and avoiding certain foods, can help protect you from some infections.
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What is pregnancy? You are pregnant when you have an embryo or fetus developing in your uterus. If any of these signs and symptoms apply to you, there is a good chance you are pregnant. The first symptom is a must, the others are possibilities. In other words, if your breasts are tender but your period has come, you are not pregnant - you must have a missed period. A male sperm penetrates an egg and fertilizes it. This usually happens in the woman's fallopian tube after ovulation (the matured egg was released from one of her ovaries). Sperm has 23 chromosomes, including one of two types of sex chromosomes - X chromosome or Y chromosome. A sperm with an X chromosome that fertilizes an egg will produce a girl, while a Y chromosome sperm will produce a boy. Each egg also has 23 chromosomes. 46 chromosomes are required to make a human. The fusion of sperm and egg makes 46. As soon as it is fertilized, the zygote starts to divide; it continues doing so until there is a cluster of cells. After five to seven days of dividing and growing, it attaches itself to the wall of the uterus (womb) and puts out root-like veins called villi. The villi make sure the embryo is well anchored to the lining of the uterus. These villi will eventually become the placenta, which feeds and protects the embryo/fetus. Diagnosing Pregnancy How do you know if you are pregnant? Although for many women, missed menstrual periods are the first clue of pregnancy, it is by no means a reliable indication. Actually, doctors can not prove you are pregnant until the baby's heartbeat can be heard at about 10 or 12 weeks with an ultrasound device. But with lab tests and a medical examination, they can make a pretty accurate diagnosis of pregnancy. What are the signs of pregnancy? In addition to missed periods, some of the early possible signs include morning sickness, food cravings, frequent urination and swollen, tender breasts. You may experience all or just a few of these signs. How can you detect pregnancy? Both the blood and urine tests performed in a laboratory have an accuracy rate of about 95% for detecting pregnancy. The blood test can detect pregnancy as early as 8 to 10 days after conception. The lab urine test can detect pregnancy as early as 20 days. Home pregnancy tests can be almost as accurate as the lab urine test, but only if they are performed correctly. It is also important to note that a positive result from these home tests is more likely to be correct than a negative one. When should you call your doctor? If you are experiencing any of the early signs of pregnancy, it is wise to consult your physician. If you are pregnant, the earlier you begin prenatal care, the better. Here are further guidelines. What are some common signs of pregnancy? Signs of pregnancy: 1.Missed period. 2.Nausea with or without vomiting. 3.Tiredness. 4.Dizziness. 5.Breast changes. 6.Breast tenderness. 7.Frequent urination. 8.Positive home pregnancy test Nausea generally affects pregnant women during the first three to four months of the pregnancy. Tiredness tends to be more acute during the first and last three months. How do I know if I am pregnant?If you suspect you are pregnant, you have two options towards finding out: ¦See your doctor. ¦Buy a home pregnancy test. If the home pregnancy test confirms you are pregnant you should go to a doctor or midwife for further confirmation. Not only will the doctor find out whether you are pregnant, he/she will also make sure you receive proper advice and support right from the start. In the UK midwives are usually based at GP (general practitioner, primary care physician) surgeries, a midwife unit, or a local hospital. Pregnancy is diagnosed by detecting the presence of HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in the woman's blood or urine. GCG is a pregnancy hormone which is present in a woman as soon as she becomes pregnant, even before her period is due. The more HCG there is in the woman the higher are her chances of having a multiple pregnancy. However, this needs to be confirmed with an abdominal, or transvaginal scan. The scan can tell how many embryos there are, as well as checking where exactly in the womb the embryo is located. What is the difference between emergency contraception, the "morning after pill", and the "day after pill"? Actually, there is no difference. Emergency contraceptive pills are often called "morning after pills" and sometimes even "day after pills" because you can use them after sex to prevent pregnancy. Most of the time, when someone mentions “emergency contraceptive pills,” “morning after pills,” or the “day after pill,” they are talking about using the same hormones found in regular daily oral contraceptive pills to reduce your chances of becoming pregnant if you had sex without using contraception, you think your birth control failed, or you were made to have sex against your will. Even though there’s no difference between what these terms refer to, calling emergency contraceptive pills “morning after pills” or “day after pills” can be misleading because you can use them right away – and you may have up to 120 hours (five days) after sex to take the pills and still prevent pregnancy, depending on how close you are to ovulating. EC should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Sperm can live in a woman's body for 5 days after sex. Research shows that ulipristal acetate (ella) can be taken up to 5 days without a decline in effectiveness, and progestin-only EC (like Plan B One-Step, Next Choice One Dose, My Way or Levonorgestrel Tablets) may be effective only through the 4th day after sex. However, keep in mind that ella is effective closer to the time of ovulation than progestin-only EC (but neither pill works after ovulation has occurred). You may not know exactly how close you are to ovulating; therefore, it is important to take EC as soon as possible no matter which pill you use. It may take time to get a prescription and fill it, or find a pharmacy that carries EC, so call your doctor or pharmacy as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Some people get confused and think that emergency contraceptive pills, or morning after pills, are the same as “abortion pills”. They aren’t. Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy before it begins, and works primarily or perhaps exclusively by delaying or inhibiting ovulation; it does not cause an abortion. What is the difference between an embryo, a fetus and a zygote? The embryo exists from the implantation of the zygote (fusion of sperm and ovum) to when all the organs are formed (around 12 weeks) when it becomes a fetus. When the sperm and egg meet (fuse) a zygote is produced. The cells of the zygote start multiplying (dividing) many times. The zygote grows and develops in the fallopian tubes. The moment it is implanted in the wall of the uterus it becomes an embryo. The difference between a zygote and an embryo is the timing. The embryo continues developing until most of the organs are formed - around the 12th week. When all the organs are there it becomes a fetus. The word zygote comes from the Greek word zygotes, meaning "yoked". The Greek word zygon means "yoke". The word embryo comes from the Medieval Latin word embryo, which comes from the Greek word embryon, meaning "young animal, fruit of the womb, that which grows". The word fetus comes from the Latin word fetus, meaning "offspring, bringing forth, hatching of young". The development or the embryo is rapid - specialized cells create the vital organs, including the bones, muscles, blood, and the nervous system. When the embryo becomes a fetus it is about 1 inch (2.4cm) long. Most of its internal organs are formed. The external features, such as the ears, mouth, nose, and eyes are evident, while fingers and toes start to appear. As the fetus gets bigger, so does the uterus. The fetus is surrounded by a fluid, called amniotic fluid. Just before a woman gives birth her "waters break", that water is the amniotic fluid. The fetus lives in this fluid and swallows it constantly. An amniotic test can be carried out during the pregnancy to find out about the baby's health. Most pregnancies last from 37 to about 42 weeks. Health care professionals calculate the delivery date 40 weeks from the date of conception (the date the sperm and egg fused). According to the ________ Health Service, UK, only about 1 in every 20 births actually takes place on the due date. A baby who is born before 37 weeks after conception is considered pre-term (premature). A pregnancy has 3 trimesters ¦The 1st trimester These are the first 13 weeks of the pregnancy. The baby develops the fastest during this period and becomes almost fully formed by the end of it. Women say this trimester is when they are most likely to feel tired, nausea, and breast tenderness. ¦The 2nd trimester This is from the 14th to 26th week of the pregnancy. During this trimester it becomes obvious that the mother is pregnant. As well as weighing more because of the growing baby, the expanded uterus, the placenta, and the amniotic fluid, the mother lays down extra reserves of fat. The baby continues to grow and develop. During the second trimester the mother will feel the baby's movements, as will others if they place their hands on the mothers stomach - sometimes movement may be observed without touching. ¦The 3rd trimester This is from week 27 until the baby is born. During this trimester the baby will build up fat stores, and continue growing rapidly. The baby's lungs will develop, as will his/her sense of hearing, taste and sight. The mother may experience backache and find it harder to get into the right position for a good night's sleep. The mother will also be urinating more often as the baby and everything around him/her presses against her bladder. She may also experience contractions that take place many days or weeks before the birth - they are called Braxton Hicks contractions - these are not the contractions of labor. Infant Feeding How do you plan to feed your baby? What questions do you have about breastfeeding? Facts: Breastmilk is the best food for your baby. Pregnancy, birth control, fertility Q: What are the symptoms of pregnancy? A: The most common symptom of pregnancy is a missed period. While symptoms like sore breasts, nausea, and fatigue are common, these can mean other things like a flu-like virus or hormonal changes. The following books may be useful: o Our Bodies, Ourselves: A New Edition for a New Era by Boston Women’s Health Collective, published by Touchstone An excellent introduction to sexuality for women and girls, and discusses physical as well as behavioral aspects of sex. o Changing Bodies, Changing Lives: A Book for Teens on Sex and Relationships by Ruth Bell [Buy] This book, from the original authors of Our Bodies, Ourselves, provides information on the physical and emotional aspects of puberty, sexuality, healthcare, sexually transmitted diseases, safer sex and birth control, living with violence, mental health, and eating disorders. Q: What days of the month can a woman get pregnant? A: There are days a woman can get pregnant and days when she can’t. Figuring out those days is the tricky part. One of the most common ways people try to figure out “safe” and “fertile” days is called the rhythm method. Because of the guesswork involved the rhythm method can be complicated and is prone to error. The first day of your period is called Day 1. You then count all the days till you get your period again. The total number of those days is the length of your menstrual cycle. Fourteen days after you ovulate (when an egg is ready to meet the sperm) you get your period. That means if you ovulate on Day 20, your cycle will be 34 days total (20 + 14). Or, if you ovulate on Day 8, you’re cycle will be 22 days long. You could assume that because your cycles are usually 28 days that you ovulate on Day 14 (28 minus 14) of your period. But how do you know you are going to ovulate on day 14 of this cycle? The truth is, you don’t. Your next cycle may only be 18 days. This means you are going to ovulate on Day 4 (18 minus 14). Because sperm live for about five days, and are viable (strong enough to possibly make you pregnant) for about three days, this means that if you have sex on your period you could get pregnant. Or your cycle may be 35 days this time. This means on Day 21, when you think the egg is no longer going to be around, it’s actually ripe and ready to get fertilized and make you pregnant! The Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) is the best way to know when you are ovulating and when you aren’t. The Fertility Awareness Handbook is a great place to start learning how to use this method. It may be a little confusing to understand right away, which is why Planned Parenthood teaches classes on FAM. It takes a big commitment and being (or becoming) very comfortable with your body. It involves taking your temperature every morning before you get up, checking your cervical mucus twice a day, and keeping track of these findings on a chart. If this sounds like something you would like to do (it’s a great way to find out more about your body) contact your local Planned Parenthood for a FAM class. Otherwise, stick with using birth control every time you have intercourse. Unless, of course, you want to have a baby! Sleep Problems in Pregnancy How does pregnancy affect sleep? The key to relieving fatigue is rest. However, many pregnancy symptoms can disturb your sleep, including: Nausea and vomiting Frequent urination Anxiety Back pain Fetal movement Abdominal discomfort Leg cramps Shortness of breath Heartburn Changes in your respiratory system during pregnancy can also worsen certain conditions, such as sleep apnea. How should I position myself for sleep during pregnancy? To minimize discomfort during sleep: Favor your left side. Research suggests that lying on your left side can help improve blood flow to your baby and to your body. Also, try to keep one or both knees bent. Don't worry, however, if you wake up in a different position.Use pillows. To prevent discomfort, consider using pregnancy or support pillows between your bent knees, under your abdomen and behind your back.Elevate your head. Elevating the head of your bed can prevent or decrease heartburn or snoring.What can I do to rest comfortably? You can take steps to manage sleep disturbances during pregnancy. For example: Maintain a sleep routine. Regularly go to bed and wake up at the same time. If you need more sleep, try napping early in the day.Watch your fluids. Drink plenty of fluids during the day. To prevent frequent urination at night, cut down on how much you drink late in the day.Eat healthy foods. Strive for a balanced diet rich in vitamins. A healthy diet can help you improve your energy levels and keep your pregnancy weight gain on target. To prevent heartburn, eat small, frequent meals and avoid fried foods, carbonated drinks, citrus fruits or juices, and spicy foods.Keep active. Regular physical activity during pregnancy might help prevent excess weight gain and leg cramps, as well as help reduce stress and boost energy. Although exercise is safe for most pregnant women, make sure you have your health care provider's OK before beginning an exercise program.Stretch. Stretching your calf muscles before bed may help prevent leg cramps during pregnancy.Practice relaxation techniques. Breathing techniques, in particular, can help reduce tension.Use nasal saline sprays or mechanical nasal dilators. These can relieve the nasal congestion that often occurs during pregnancy. Also, avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.Set the mood. A dark, quiet and comfortably cool environment can help encourage sleep.Relieve pain safely. If minor pain caused by muscle stretching or your increased weight during the late stages of pregnancy is keeping you up, occasional use of acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) might help.If you continue to have trouble sleeping during pregnancy or you're concerned about your fatigue, talk to your health care provider. How much sleep do you really need? You've heard the standard advice: Get eight hours of sleep a night. But is that true across the board? The answer seems to be that it depends. Age As you would expect, infants and toddlers need the most sleep — nine to 10 hours at night plus naps during the day. School-age children, including teens, do best with nine to 11 hours a night. Most adults require seven to eight hours of sleep each night. While older adults need about the same amount of sleep as younger adults, older adults tend to sleep more lightly and for shorter periods than do younger adults. Older adults often compensate by spending more time in bed at night or napping during the day. Pregnancy Changes in a woman's body during early pregnancy can increase the need for sleep. Yet pregnancy symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, frequent urination, back pain, leg cramps, and heartburn, may make it difficult to sleep. Health problems and medications People who have chronic asthma or bronchitis tend to have more problems falling asleep and staying asleep than healthy people, either because of their breathing difficulties or because of their medications. Other chronic painful or uncomfortable conditions — such as arthritis, congestive heart failure, gastric reflux and sickle cell anemia — also can make it hard to get enough sleep. Certain commonly used prescription and over-the-counter medicines contain ingredients that can keep you awake. These ingredients include decongestants and steroids. Heart and blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can make it difficult to fall asleep and can cause more awakenings during the night Sleep deprivation If you're sleep deprived, the amount of sleep you need increases. And if you consistently skimp on sleep, a sleep debt builds up that affects your health and quality of life. Many people try to make up for lost sleep during the week by sleeping more on the weekends. But if you've lost too much sleep, sleeping in on a weekend can't completely erase your sleep debt. In addition, sleeping later on the weekends can affect your biological clock, making it harder to go to sleep at the right time on Sunday nights and get up on time on Monday mornings. Genetics Do some people just need fewer hours of sleep a night? Yes, it's estimated that somewhere between 1 and 5 percent of the population are short sleepers — people who sleep six hours or less a night without ill effects. The need for less sleep tends to run in families, as does the need for more sleep, which suggests a genetic basis for sleep duration. The sweet spot Studies suggest that getting less than seven hours — or more than nine hours — of sleep a night is associated with increased risk of health problems and psychiatric disorders, especially mood disorders, and a higher mortality rate. Beyond the numbers The most important factor in determining how much sleep you need is whether you routinely feel sleepy during the day. Do you tend to fall asleep in low stimulus situations, such as long drives, reading, watching television, talking on the phone or completing desk work? If you do, you're likely not getting enough sleep. Take steps to increase the amount of sleep you're getting. If that doesn't help you feel more rested and alert during the day, consult your doctor. He or she can look for possible underlying causes, such as sleep apnea, that can be treated to improve your sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness. Why does pregnancy cause fatigue? During early pregnancy, levels of the hormone progesterone soar and your metabolism is running high. This can make you feel exhausted. At the same time, lower blood pressure and increased blood production might team up to sap your energy. If you have another child or children to care for, you might experience even more fatigue. While fatigue typically lessens after the first trimester, you'll likely feel tired again toward the end of your pregnancy as your baby increases in size. Trying to Conceive (Getting Pregnant) Ovulation Is there an average number of days post last day of your period, that you ovulate? You ovulate 14 days before the first day of your next period, which, if you have a regular 28 day cycle is also 14 days after your last period, but if your cycle is not that predictable it can be difficult to know. Diet Is there anything you should do around the time of conception like eat anything specific or take supplements? You should eat a healthy well balanced diet, give up smoking and alcohol and maintain a healthy weight (Body Mass Index 18.5 - 25) and you should take folic acid supplements daily ideally for three months before conception and for the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of spina bifida. Spina bifida is a defect in the development of the spinal cord of the baby and it has been shown that taking folic acid supplements significantly reduces the chances of this happening. The incidence is about one in a thousand births but before we recommended folic acid supplements it was nearer 45 in every thousand births. Pregnancy Nutrition & Fitness Questions What's your pregnancy nutrition IQ? Which of the following vitamins can be harmful to your baby when taken in large doses? a. Vitamin A b. Vitamin C c. Vitamin B6 d. All of the above All of the above correct! Which of these vitamins may help ease nausea? a. Vitamin B6 b. Vitamin C c. Vitamin E d. Both vitamin B6 and vitamin E (wrong) The correct answer is a. Which nutrient has been proven to prevent birth defects? a. Manganese b. Pantothenic acid c. Folic acid d. All of the above The correct answer is c. Which of these nutrients do most women have a hard time getting enough of during pregnancy? a. Protein b. Iron c. Vitamin C d. Protein and vitamin C Iron correct! Which of these vitamins do you probably need a supplement of if you're not in the habit of exposing your skin to the sun regularly? a. Vitamin D b. Vitamin A c. Thiamin d. None of the above Vitamin D correct! A deficiency of which of these nutrients is linked to miscarriage and other pregnancy complications? a. Flouride b. Zinc c. Chromium d. Zinc and chromium The correct answer is b. During pregnancy, a severe deficiency of zinc can cause miscarriage, preeclampsia, low birth weight, and other problems during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Your body needs this essential mineral for the production, repair, and functioning of DNA, the basic building block of cells. Zinc is found in some meat, fish, and fortified cereals. But you may still fall short of the 11 mg you need a day while you're pregnant. Fortunately, your prenatal vitamin should provide you with the zinc you need. A deficiency of which of these nutrients puts you baby at risk for serious diseases that affect the nervous system, brain, and heart? a. Thiamin b. Riboflavin c. Pantothenic Acid d. None of the above Thiamin correct! Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1, converts carbohydrates into energy for both you and your baby and is essential for your baby's brain development. It also aids the normal functioning of your nervous system, muscles, and heart. A severe deficiency can lead to beriberi, a collection of serious diseases that can affect the nervous system, heart, and brain. Deficiencies are rare in this country, though, because many foods are fortified with thiamin. And fruits, vegetables, and dairy products contain small amounts. In addition, your prenatal vitamin probably has you covered. Which of the following vitamins helps your body absorb iron? a. Vitamin E b. Riboflavin c. Vitamin C d. All of the above The correct answer is c. Both you and your baby need vitamin C daily – it's the cementing agent that holds new cells together. It helps your baby grow and builds strong bones and teeth. And it helps your body absorb iron. Try to include a vitamin C-rich food with every meal to get the most iron out of the other foods you eat. Quiz: Test Your Pregnancy Nutrition IQ A pregnant woman should eat how many extra calories per day? 300 500 1000 Correct! You chose: 300 A woman of average weight should gain how many pounds during her pregnancy? 15 to 25 25 to 35 35 to 45 The correct answer is: 25 to 35 Folic acid, a key nutrient to the growth of your baby, can be found in which foods? Dark, leafy greens Peas and beans Citrus fruits and juices Whole-grain breads and cereals All of the above Correct! You chose: All of the above Women should have 0.4 milligrams a day of folic acid to help prevent neural tube defects. This vitamin can be found in many food sources, including spinach, collard and turnip greens, romaine lettuce, broccoli, asparagus, whole-grain breads and cereals, citrus fruits and juices, organ meats (such as liver), peas, and beans. True or false: It's okay to have an occasional glass of wine during pregnancy. True False Correct! You chose: False The March of Dimes (MOD) reports that every sip of alcohol during pregnancy can increase your baby's risk of birth defects and mental retardation. There is no "safe" level of alcohol consumption when you're pregnant. Pregnant women should increase their daily calcium intake by: 20 percent 30 percent 40 percent The correct answer is: 40 percent Which of the following sources of carbohydrates offers the least nutritional value? Whole-grain cereals Brown rice White bread Pasta Correct! You chose: White bread True or false: It is recommended that most pregnant women take vitamin supplements, including folic acid, iron, and calcium. True False Correct! You chose: True Which of the following is the minimum recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables during pregnancy? 3 servings of vegetables and 2 of fruits 2 servings of vegetables and 3 of fruits 4 servings of each The correct answer is: 3 servings of vegetables and 2 of fruits Fruits and vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber to aid digestion, according to the MOD. Which of the following foods are a good source of protein in a vegetarian diet? Beans Nuts Soy products All of the above The correct answer is: All of the above During pregnancy, calories from fat should be limited to what percentage of your daily diet? 30 percent 40 percent 50 percent Correct! You chose: 30 percent The recommended daily allowance of iron for pregnant women is: 5 milligrams 10 milligrams 30 milligrams Correct! You chose: 30 milligrams Iron prevents fatigue and is necessary to create the red blood cells that deliver oxygen to your baby. The recommended daily allowance of iron for pregnant women is 30 milligrams. Pregnant women should drink 8 glasses each day of: Water A combination of water and juice Anything liquid The correct answer is: Water Drink plenty of fluids -- especially water -- during pregnancy. While water is best, juice is another healthy option, according to the MOD. But keep in mind that juice is high in calories, while water has none. Avoid or limit caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and soda. True or false: Low-fat dairy products contain less calcium than high-fat dairy products. True False Low-fat dairy products contain an equal amount of calcium as high-fat products -- only less fat. In fact, the MOD recommends a daily intake of 3 to 4 servings of low-fat milk, yogurt, or cheese. Which of the following types of food are good sources of iron? Shellfish Red meat Leafy greens Potatoes All of the above Correct! You chose: All of the above Pregnancy Danger Signs If you are pregnant and any of these occur, call your health care provider: Blurred vision, spots, or light flashes with or without a headache A hot, reddened painful area on your calf or behind your knee Pain or burning when you urinate, or unusually frequent urination Temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit lasting longer than 24 hours Sudden severe or continuous pain or cramping in the lower abdomen Bleeding or spotting from your vagina Injury to your stomach Sudden, severe swelling of your hands, feet or face Sores or blisters on your genitals (possibly herpes) Symptoms of vaginal infection - itching, burning and increase of unusual discharge Involved in a car accident Severe headaches or difficulty with vision Continuous leaking of small amounts of fluid from the vagina or gush of water from the vagina Baby does not move for more than one day after the 20th week of pregnancy or decreased fetal movement Five or more uterine contractions in one hour before 36 weeks Diarrhea, nausea or vomiting lasting longer than 24 hours Sexual positions Is there a particular sexual position that can help you get pregnant more easily? People often say that positions that allow the deepest penetration can aid conception which is based on the theory that deep penetration allows the sperm to be closer to the cervix, but as far as I know there is no research that proves this to be the case. How long does it take to get pregnant? If 100 couples are trying to get pregnant, 90 of them will succeed in the first year and 95 will be pregnant within two years. To maximize your chances of conceiving you should aim to have sex regularly around the time that you ovulate. This is fourteen days before your next period. If your cycle is not regular it can be difficult to know when you ovulate and you may find it useful to use a Clearblue Digital Ovulation Test or Fertility Monitor to help pinpoint your peak fertile days. Periods Can you still get pregnant if you have sex during your period? Yes. If you have a regular cycle it is highly unlikely but it is possible that out of the blue you would have a 2 week cycle which would mean that you were ovulating during a bleed, so you should always assume that it is possible. Lifestyle If you could recommend one lifestyle change over all others to enhance your chances of getting pregnant what would it be? The best thing you can do is to maintain a healthy weight. A Body Mass index 18.5 – 25 is ideal. You can calculate you BMI by dividing your weight in kilos by the square of your height in meters. Smoking I know smoking affects your fertility but if you give up is the damage permanent? No - your fertility improves if you give up. We know that smoking has a detrimental effect on a woman's fertility. It is thought to cause problems with ovulation and implantation and there is also some concern that the chemical in tobacco smoke could even be toxic to sperm. The good news is that these effects seem to be reversible when you give up. Symptoms and signs What are the first symptoms of pregnancy? Missing a period is usually the first signal of a new pregnancy, although women with irregular periods may not initially recognize a missed period as pregnancy. During this time, many women experience a need to urinate frequently, extreme fatigue, nausea and/or vomiting, and increased breast tenderness. All of these symptoms can be normal. Most over-the-counter pregnancy tests are sensitive 9-12 days after conception, and they are readily available at most drug stores. Performing these tests early helps to allay confusion and guesswork. A serum pregnancy test (performed in a provider's office or laboratory facility) can detect pregnancy 8-11 days after conception. How long after conception does the fertilized egg implant? The fertilized conceptus enters the uterus as a 2- to 8-cell embryo and freely floats in the endometrial cavity about 90-150 hours, roughly 4-7 days after conception. Most embryos implant by the morula stage, when the embryo consists of many cells. This happens, on average, 6 days after conception. The new embryo then induces the lining changes of the endometrium, which is called decidualization. It then rapidly begins to develop the physiologic changes that establish maternal-placental exchange. Prior to this time, medications ingested by the mother typically do not affect a pregnancy. What is the most accurate pregnancy test to use? Serum beta–human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is the hormone produced by the syncytiotrophoblast beginning on the day of implantation, and it rises in both the maternal blood stream and the maternal urine fairly quickly. The serum hCG test is the most sensitive and specific, and the hormone can be detected in both blood and urine by about 8-9 days after conception. This test can be performed quantitatively or qualitatively. Urine pregnancy tests differ in their sensitivity and specificity, which are based on the hCG units set as the cutoff for a positive test result, usually 2-5 mIU/mL. Urine pregnancy tests can produce positive results at the level of 20 mIU/mL, which is 2-3 days before most women expect the next menstrual period. The kits are very accurate and widely available. The test can be completed in about 3-5 minutes. The kits all use the same technique—recognition by an antibody of the beta subunit of hCG. Falsely high readings of the hCG hormone can occur in cases of hydatidiform molar pregnancy or other placental abnormalities. Also, test results can remain positive for pregnancy weeks after a pregnancy termination, miscarriage, or birth. On the other hand, false-negative test results can occur from incorrect test preparation, urine that is too dilute, or interference by several medications. Serum pregnancy tests can be performed by a variety of methods. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is the most popular in many clinical laboratories. This test is a determination of total beta-hCG levels. It is performed using a monoclonal antibody to bind to the hCG; a second antibody is added that also interacts with hCG and emits color when doing so. This form of ELISA is commonly called a "sandwich" of the sample hCG. Radioimmunoassay (RIA) is still used by some laboratories. This test adds radiolabeled anti-hCG antibody to nonlabeled hCG of the blood sample. The count is then essentially determined by the amount of displacement of the radiolabeled sample. The hCG level doubles approximately every 2 days in early pregnancy. However, it should be noted that even increases of only 33% can be consistent with healthy pregnancies. These values increase until about 60-70 days and then decrease to very low levels by about 100-130 days and never decrease any further until the pregnancy is over. Is cramping during pregnancy normal? Early in pregnancy, uterine cramping can indicate normal changes of pregnancy initiated by hormonal changes; later in pregnancy, it can indicate a growing uterus. Cramping that is different from previous pregnancies, worsening cramping, or cramping associated with any vaginal bleeding may be a sign of ectopic pregnancy, threatened abortion, or missed abortion. Other physical effects that are normal during pregnancy, and not necessarily signs of disease, include nausea, vomiting, increase in abdominal girth, changes in bowel habits, increased urinary frequency, palpitations or more rapid heartbeat, upheaving of the chest (particularly with breathing), heart murmurs, swelling of the ankles, and shortness of breath. Why do pregnant women feel tired? Fatigue in early pregnancy is very normal. Many changes are occurring as the new pregnancy develops, and women experience this as fatigue and an increased need for sleep. Lower blood pressure level, lower blood sugar levels, hormonal changes due to the soporific effects of progesterone, metabolic changes, and the physiologic anemia of pregnancy all contribute to fatigue. Women should check with their health care provider to determine if an additional work up, prenatal vitamin changes, and/or supplemental iron would be beneficial. Female Sexual Problems When is the right time to seek help for sex issues? How can counselling help sex issues? What are female sexual problems? What causes female sexual problems? How do you know when to seek help? How do you get help? When is the right time to seek help for sex issues? Sexual counselling can be enlightening, as family myths and cultural taboos are explored and debunked. If sex has been exciting at one time, but no longer seems so, why has the change occurred? Has it always been disappointing? In a good relationship, with trained help, there should be the opportunity to find answers. How can counselling help sex issues? Relationship counselling can help explore the physical communication and the understanding of what sex means to two particular people. Sex may be mechanical and a way to maintain a safe distance for one person. In such cases, the partner may mourn the lack of intimacy and trust which would allow them to feel safe and enjoy sex. Withdrawal of sex can happen when a person has no alternative way to express their anger and disappointment – so the forbidden feelings are acted out in the bedroom. Control and power are often issues in difficult sexual relationships as one partner may be unconsciously exerting the control and power they feel they lack outside the bedroom. If the problem is around a dysfunction, a couple can be referred for psychosexual therapy with a suitably qualified person. If you and your partner are experiencing problems with sex, you are not alone. Recent studies reveal that nearly 40 percent of women of all ages report having sexual problems. It just isn't the kind of thing people want to admit. But you deserve to have a pleasurable sex life and there are professionals who can help. What are female sexual problems? There are a variety of sexual problems that women experience, either alone or with a partner. The term "sex" is not limited just to intercourse, and can also refer to a variety of intimate sexual activities such as fondling, self-stimulation (masturbation), and oral sex. Sexual problems are generally defined as any problem that occurs in the course of sexual activity, including: •Not being in the mood •Trouble becoming aroused, which usually involves being too "dry" Difficulty having orgasms •Pain during sex or pain related to sexual activity •Most women experience these from time to time. It is when they are persistent that they become problematic for the woman and her partner. You should seek help more promptly if you are experiencing physical pain. What causes female sexual problems? Sexual problems can be influenced by a wide variety of factors. There are two main components-biological and psychological-and usually they interact. Biological problems usually involve such things as hormonal imbalances, infections (like yeast infections), or diseases (like diabetes or multiple sclerosis) that have potential side effects like pain during sex or excessive dryness. There are certain times in a woman's life when she is more prone to sexual problems because of hormonal changes. For example, some women experience a range of sexual responses right after childbirth and during menopause. Also, some commonly prescribed medications, like certain antidepressants, can lead to sexual side effects. There is also the psychological aspect. This can include such things as the many conflicting cultural messages one learns about sexuality Gender messages are especially influential, impacting how a woman views her sexual self, including body image, roles, power, and her view of her partner. From birth throughout her life every woman is developing a unique "sexual story" influenced by culture, gender, family of origin, and personal experiences. The "story" takes on the beliefs and meanings that she attributes to her sexuality Couples must negotiate their personal "sexual stories" as they develop their own style of sexual communication and activity This should be an ongoing process, since everyday life problems may get in the way of intimacy and sexuality. Job worries, pressures of juggling work and family, substance abuse, depression, and financial worries can all influence how you feel sexually In our fast paced world, having a lot on your mind, as most people do, can get in the way even when you want to focus on being intimate. Over time psychological troubles can create biological problems and vice versa. It all starts to blur together so you can't even really pinpoint where the issues started. You just know you want help. How do you know when to seek help? It really depends on the woman and her partner. Sometimes a problem seems to go away pretty quickly on its own. But, if this is something that is really worrying or frustrating you or your partner and does not seem to go away no matter what you try, or if you are experiencing considerable pain or discomfort, it may be time to consider professional help. How do you get help? Help is available through both individual or couples therapy. Many people will use a combination of the two. When a couple begins therapy, the therapist may refer one or both partners to a physician to rule out any medical conditions that could be contributing to the problem. The therapist or physician should fully inform you of the reasons for the medical procedure. A physician can also help with issues surrounding medication, like experimenting with the dosage of your medication to reduce sexual side effects. There are some hormonal treatments for women that are helpful during and after menopause. For now, there are no drugs available to help improve women's sexual functioning like there are for men, though some may be available in the next few years. Therapy can help women, either alone or with a partner, who are experiencing sexual problems. Most therapists are used to talking to couples about their sexual lives and will not be embarrassed if you bring it up. The therapist is there to help the woman and her partner gain understanding of some of the relationship dynamics and background issues that may be influencing the problem. The therapist can also provide you with information about human sexuality and sexual functioning, and answer your questions. Signs of a relationship sex issue Sex is no longer on the agenda. Sex is difficult or painful for one partner. Sex causes disappointment. One partner has gone off sex. Sex is the subject of rows and sulks. Families pass on unspoken messages about sex which can cause unnecessary distress in couples. Often individuals need to explore their own sexuality away from such pressures. What feels good and what feels disappointing? Attitudes inherited from childhood or out of ignorance can cause unnecessary misery. Cultural pressure may require a detached and analytical re-examination to allow a couple to make their own rules. Sometimes traumatic sexual experiences from childhood or past relationships can emerge in a present relationship. With trust these can be explored and resolved. Causes of sex issues physical – due to alcohol, drugs or illness pregnancy aging or loss of self-esteem anxieties and Stress loss of status or change in circumstances betrayal of trust. 1 in 3 females are sexually abused in childhood. 1 in 5-7 males are sexually abused in childhood. 1 in 4 women are raped sometime in their lifetime. 1 in 2 sexually active people will contract a sexually transmitted disease by twenty-five years of age. 1 in 4 people suffer from a sexually transmitted disease sometime in their lives. 1 in 3 women have at least one abortion by the time they are forty-five years of age. 1 in 7-10 people develop a sexual addiction. 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men report that sex gives them no pleasure. Fertility myths Are women with bigger breasts usually more fertile? No, I don't think so. I have never seen any evidence to suggest this is the case. |
| Human Pregnancy Emergencies |
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Pregnancy Q: What should you know about human pregnancy? Q: What is human pregnancy? Q: How does a woman get pregnant? Q: How do you conclude in the first trimester that a woman is pregnant? Q: How long does a normal pregnancy last? Q: What complications can occur during pregnancy? Q: What are the symptoms or signs of complications during pregnancy? Q: What medicines are contraindicated during pregnancy? Q: What procedures should not be done during pregnancy? Q: What are various obstetrical and gynecological emergencies? |
| Diagnosis and Management of Intrauterine Growth Restriction |
| Diabetes in Pregnancy |
| Ectopic Pregnancy |
| Hypertension in Pregnancy |
| Postpartum Blues, Depression and Psychoses |
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Address Menstrual history Pregnancy history Surgical history Medical history Social history Contraception history Human Pregnancy Emergencies What is your name? _________________________ What is your date of birth? _________________________ Where and when were you born? _________________________ What is your gender? _________________________ Address What is your mailing address? ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ Where are you located now? ________________________ What was your mailing address from birth until now? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ Where do you live now? _________________________ How long have you lived at this address? _________________________ What is your contact information including current mailing address, telephone, e-mail, and any other details, and person to contact in case of emergency? _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ How long do you plan to live at this address? _________________________ Menstrual history What was the first day of your last menstrual period? (dd/mm/yy) Don’t know _________________________ Are you sure of that date? Yes No N/A _________________________ How many days does your period last? days _________________________ How many days are there between your periods? days _________________________ Are your periods regular? Yes No N/A _________________________ Pregnancy history How many times have you been pregnant in total (including this one)? _________________________ Deliveries
_________________________ Miscarriage, abortion, and ectopic
_________________________ Yes No If yes, please bring copy to your appointment _________________________ Have you had any pain during your current pregnancy? _________________________ Have you had any bleeding during your current pregnancy? _________________________ Have you had any nausea or vomiting during your current pregnancy? _________________________ Are you currently breastfeeding? _________________________ Surgical history Have you ever had any operations? _________________________ Yes No
_________________________ Yes No Have you or anyone in your immediate family ever had any problems with any anaesthetic? _________________________ Yes No N/A Medical history Do you use any prescription medicines? _________________________ Yes No If yes, please bring them with you _________________________ Do you use any other medicines such as herbal or homeopathic rememdies? If yes, please bring them with you _________________________ Yes No Do you have, or have you ever had any of the following: Asthma Yes No Other breathing problems Yes No High blood pressure Yes No Heart disease Yes No Heart valve problems Yes No Heart attack Yes No Stroke Yes No Migraine headaches Yes No Blood clots in your legs, arms or lungs (DVT) Yes No Bleeding disorder (like haemophilia) Yes No Clotting disorder (like Factor V Leiden) Yes No Anaemia Yes No Sickle cell disease Yes No Thalassaemia Yes No Seizures/fits/epilepsy Yes No Brain tumours Yes No Mental health problems Yes No Adrenal problems Yes No Liver problems Yes No Gallbladder problems Yes No Any other gastrointestinal problem Yes No (like ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome) Thyroid problems Yes No Do you have, or have you ever had, any of the following: Breast cancer Yes No Cancer of any kind Yes No What was the date of your last cervical smear? Abnormal cervical smear Yes No Treatment to your cervix (neck of the womb) Yes No Uterine fibroids Yes No Abnormally shaped uterus Yes No Pelvic infection Yes No Sexually transmitted infection Yes No Hepatitis Yes No Have you ever been told you are at Yes No increased risk of CJD or vCJD for public health purposes? Do you have any other medical problems not mentioned here? Yes No Social history Do you smoke tobacco? _________________________ Yes No Do you use any recreational drugs? _________________________ Yes No Contraception history Were you using any contraception at the time that you got pregnant with your current pregnancy? _________________________ If yes, what were you using? Do you have a copper coil (IUD) or Mirena coil (IUS) currently in place? _________________________ Yes No To the best of my knowledge, the information I have provided is correct and complete. Signature Date Medicolegal cases Is this a medicolegal case? _________________________ If this is a medicolegal case, what are the details? _________________________ |
| What human pregnancy emergencies or complications need on-the-spot diagnosis and treatment? |
| Maliciously impregnated (medico-legal case that needs emergency contraception). |
| Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery |
| What symptoms, signs, and/or complaints indicate a human pregnancy emergency? |
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If you know any female of childbearing age maliciously impregnated, report an emergency (emergency contraception). Danger signs during pregnancy Call your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms during your pregnancy: Abdominal or epigastric pain Dizziness, blurred or double vision and spots before your eyes Fever over 101° and chills Hard, rigid abdomen with severe pain Noticeable decline in fetal movement Painful, difficult or scanty urination Persistent vomiting Sudden gush of fluid from the vagina Severe headaches Swelling around the eyes with accompanying swelling of the hands (some swelling in the legs and feet can be normal) Seizure(Convulsion) Vaginal bleeding |
Human female reproductive system
Illustration depicting female reproductive system (sagittal view).
Illustration depicting female reproductive anatomy.
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Stretch marks Is there anything you can do to prevent stretch marks? The hormones of pregnancy and rapid changes in weight make some women prone to stretch marks. Normal weight gain in pregnancy is around 25 - 35lbs and you should try not to put on a lot more than this although that is only a rough guide and will also depend on your pre pregnancy weight so check with your midwife. Lots of people recommend using moisturizers containing vitamin E. I'm not sure that there is evidence to support this but it certainly won't do any harm. I used them in all three of my pregnancies. |
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What is ultrasound? How does ultrasound work? Why is an ultrasound done? What will happen during the ultrasound? What can an ultrasound find? Does a normal ultrasound mean I will have a healthy baby? Is ultrasound safe? What are the benefits of ultrasound? How is ultrasound used in women's health care? How is ultrasound used during pregnancy? How many ultrasound exams will I have during my pregnancy? Where is an ultrasound exam done? Who performs the ultrasound exam? What type of ultrasound exam will I have? What do I need to do to prepare for a transabdominal ultrasound exam? What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound exam? What is a specialized ultrasound exam? What are the types of specialized ultrasound exams? What is Doppler ultrasound? What are 3D and 4D ultrasound? What is sonohysterography? What are the risks of ultrasound exams? |
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What is ultrasound?
Ultrasound is energy in the form of sound waves. The most common type of ultrasound exam is called two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound. In this type of ultrasound, a transducer sends sound waves through the body. The sound waves hit tissues, body fluids, and bones. The waves then bounce back, like echoes. The transducer receives these echoes, which are converted into images of the internal organs and—during pregnancy—the fetus. Ultrasound comes from a machine that creates an image of the inside of your body. It shows what your baby looks like while still inside your womb (uterus). Ultrasound can tell you—and your health-care provider—many things about your baby, such as: • the size of the baby • how well the baby’s heart works • how well other organs (such as the spine, brain and kidneys) are growing • the anticipated date of birth The moving pictures from the ultrasound machine are like a movie. The pictures appear on a computer screen. How does ultrasound work? Ultrasound pictures are made from sound waves which are too high pitched to be heard by the human ear. The sound waves travel through your skin and are focused on a certain part of your body by a scanning device called a “transducer.” It picks up the sound waves as they bounce back from organs inside the body. Ultrasound is different from x-rays because it does not use radiation. This makes it safer for you and your baby. Ultrasound is used in many areas of medicine. Why is an ultrasound done? An ultrasound can help to check on many aspects of a healthy pregnancy, such as: • the number of babies • whether the baby ’s size is right for his/her age • how the baby’s internal organs are growing • whether the placenta (afterbirth) is in the correct place • whether there are problems with the mother’s uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries Experts in Canada recommend that all women have an ultrasound when they are pregnant. The best time to do this is between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. You might be asked to have ultrasound at other times during your pregnancy. Your health-care provider may suggest this: • to see what position the baby is in • to check the placenta (afterbirth) • to view how much fluid is around the baby • to check the baby’s growth and well-being • to check for signs of a possible genetic problem What will happen during the ultrasound? Before you go for an ultrasound, you will get information on how to prepare and where to go. Sometimes, women are told to arrive with a full bladder, but not so full it causes pain. This helps the sound waves travel better through the skin and tissues. You may be asked to change from your own clothing into a medical gown. The person who does the ultrasound is called an ultrasonographer. Once you are lying down on the examining table, clear gel will be put on your skin. The gel allows the transducer to move easily on your skin and helps the sound waves to transmit into your body. You may feel light pressure on your tummy but no pain. An ultrasound exam takes about 30 minutes. If more tests are needed, it could take longer. Sometimes, the ultrasound must be done through the vagina (birth passage). A special kind of transducer is placed into your vagina. Most women feel no pain during this type of ultrasound. What can an ultrasound find? You should make sure you are fully informed about why you are having an ultrasound. It is an important way to learn about problems. The results of an ultrasound may mean you will need to have more tests. Talk to your health-care provider before you have an ultrasound to make an informed decision. For most pregnant women, ultrasound assures them that their baby is healthy and all is well. Sadly, for a few, the ultrasound will find signs that all is not normal. Remember that the screening test only indicates an increased chance for concern and cannot tell you for sure if the baby does have a specific condition. Your health- care provider will be told if the ultrasound shows any signs of abnormality. They will discuss this with you. You may be referred to a centre that has expert doctors with experience in the field of fetal abnormalities. Does a normal ultrasound mean I will have a healthy baby? Ultrasound can detect many, but not all, abnormalities. Finding an abnormality depends on many factors, including the age and position of the baby, as well as the size and type of abnormality. The clarity of the pictures depends on the ultrasound equipment and how well the ultrasound can pass through the mother’s abdomen. For example, ultrasound will be less clear when the mother’s abdomen is thick or scarred. Is ultrasound safe? Ultrasound has been used on pregnant women for more than 30 years. Studies continue to make sure ultrasound is safe. So far, there is no reason to think that it harms mothers or babies. As with all medical tests, the benefits must always be greater than the risks. Health Canada regulates ultrasounds in Canada through two laws: the Medical Devices Regulations of the Food and Drugs Act and the Radiation Emitting D evices Act. This helps to ensure that ultrasounds are safe when used for medical reasons. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada and Health Canada have produced guidelines on diagnostic ultrasound. They state that ultrasound should not be used for any of these reasons: • to have a picture of the baby, solely for non-medical reasons • to learn the sex of the baby, solely for non-medical reasons • for commercial use, such as trade shows or making videos of a baby What are the benefits of ultrasound? Ultrasounds provide pregnant women with important medical information. It helps Canadian women have healthy babies. Ultrasound must be used carefully to ensure that mothers and their babies benefit from what it offers. If your health-care provider recommends that you have an ultrasound, make sure you know: • why it is needed • the risks that may be involved • how it will be done How is ultrasound used in women’s health care? Ultrasound can be used to diagnose and monitor certain problems, such as a pelvic mass, a breast lump, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or infertility. It also can be used during pregnancy to monitor the fetus. How is ultrasound used during pregnancy? Ultrasound is used during pregnancy to find out whether the growing fetus inside your uterus is developing normally. It can be used to check the anatomy of the fetus for defects or problems. It also can be used to find out the following information: • Age of the fetus • Location of the placenta • Fetal position, movement, breathing, and heart rate • Amount of amniotic fluid in the uterus • Number of fetuses Ultrasound may be used to screen for certain birth defects, such as Down syndrome. Ultrasound also is used during chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis to help guide these procedures. How many ultrasound exams will I have during my pregnancy? You may have at least one standard exam during your pregnancy. This ultrasound exam usually is performed at about 16–20 weeks of pregnancy. Some women may have an ultrasound exam in the first trimester of pregnancy. If a problem occurs during pregnancy, such as bleeding or pelvic pain, ultrasound may be used to help find the cause. Where is an ultrasound exam done? An ultrasound exam may be done in a health care provider’s office or a hospital. Who performs the ultrasound exam? It may be performed by your health care provider or a specially trained technician. How is the ultrasound exam performed? During an ultrasound exam, the transducer is either moved across your abdomen (transabdominal ultrasound) or placed in your vagina (transvaginal ultrasound). What type of ultrasound exam will I have? The type of ultrasound exam you have depends on what types of images your health care provider needs and why the exam is being done. If you are pregnant, it also depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy. Transvaginal ultrasound often is used in early pregnancy. Transabdominal ultrasound often is used after about 10 weeks of pregnancy. Your weight also can determine which type of exam is needed. What do I need to do to prepare for a transabdominal ultrasound exam? If you are having a transabdominal ultrasound exam, wear loose-fitting clothes. This will allow your abdomen to be exposed easily. You may need to drink several glasses of water during the 2 hours before your exam. This will make your bladder full. A full bladder is helpful because sound waves pass more easily through liquid than through air. What happens during a transabdominal ultrasound exam? For this exam, you will lie on a table with your abdomen exposed from the lower part of the ribs to the hips. A gel is applied to the surface of the abdomen. This improves contact of the transducer with the skin surface. The handheld transducer then is moved along the abdomen. What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound exam? For a transvaginal ultrasound exam, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown or undress from the waist down. You do not need to fill your bladder before the test. You will lie on your back with your feet in stirrups, like for a pelvic exam. The transducer for this exam is shaped like a wand. It is covered with a latex sheath, like a condom, and lubricated before it is inserted into the vagina. What is a specialized ultrasound exam? A specialized ultrasound exam often uses additional technology to examine a particular organ. If your health care provider suspects a problem based on other tests, you may have a specialized ultrasound exam. What are the types of specialized ultrasound exams? Specialized ultrasound exams include Doppler ultrasound, three-dimensional and four-dimensional (3D and 4D) ultrasound, and sonohysterography. What is Doppler ultrasound? This test is done during pregnancy using transabdominal ultrasound. Sound waves are used to measure blood flow in the fetus’s umbilical cord or other blood vessels. It also can be used to listen to the heartbeat. A health care provider may order this test if the fetus is not growing normally or with other tests to detect fetal anemia. What are 3D and 4D ultrasound? In a 3D ultrasound exam, multiple 2D images are taken at various angles. The images then are assembled into a 3D image. A 4D image is similar to a 3D image, but it shows movement. A 3D or 4D ultrasound sometimes is done when a specific problem is suspected during pregnancy, such as a problem with the placenta or fetus. What is sonohysterography? This test is used to look for problems within the uterus, often as part of an infertility evaluation. For sonohysterography, you first have a transvaginal ultrasound exam. Next, a catheter (a thin tube) is inserted through the cervix. A saline solution (salt water) is injected through the catheter into the uterus. The saline makes the inside of the uterus easier to see with ultrasound. What are the risks of ultrasound exams? Currently, there is no reliable evidence that ultrasound is harmful to a developing fetus. No links have been found between ultrasound and birth defects, childhood cancer, or developmental problems later in life. However, it is possible that effects could be identified in the future. For this reason, it is recommended that ultrasound exams be performed only for medical reasons by qualified health care providers. Glossary Amniocentesis: A procedure in which a needle is used to withdraw and test a small amount of amniotic fluid and cells from the sac surrounding the fetus. Amniotic Fluid: Water in the sac surrounding the fetus in the mother’s uterus. Anemia: Abnormally low levels of blood or red blood cells in the bloodstream. Cervix: The lower, narrow end of the uterus at the top of the vagina. Chorionic Villus Sampling: A procedure in which a small sample of cells is taken from the placenta and tested. Down Syndrome: A genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome and characterized by intellectual disability, abnormal features of the face, and medical problems such as heart defects. Fetus: The developing organism in the uterus from the ninth week of pregnancy until the end of pregnancy. Placenta: Tissue that provides nourishment to and takes waste away from the fetus. Sonohysterography: A procedure in which sterile fluid is injected into the uterus through the cervix while ultrasound images are taken of the inside of the uterus. Transabdominal Ultrasound: A type of ultrasound in which a device is moved across the abdomen. Transducer: A device that emits sound waves and translates the echoes into electrical signals. Transvaginal Ultrasound: A type of ultrasound in which a device specially designed to be placed in the vagina is used. Trimester: One of the three 3-month periods into which pregnancy is divided. Ultrasound: A test in which sound waves are used to examine internal structures. During pregnancy, it can be used to examine the fetus. Umbilical Cord: A cord-like structure containing blood vessels that connects the fetus to the placenta. Uterus: A muscular organ located in the female pelvis that contains and nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy. |
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Weight What questions do you have about weight gain during pregnancy? What do you eat on a typical day? Facts: Eat a healthy diet. 25-35 pounds for normal weight woman 15-25 pounds for overweight woman 25-40 pounds for underweight woman Eat foods high in fiber. Drink plenty of liquids. Eat small frequent meals. Avoid spicy and/or greasy foods. Are women who carry fat in their stomach area more likely to have difficulty conceiving than those who carry weight all over? Carrying weight around your middle is associated with higher risk of heart disease than carrying the same weight on your hips and thighs. Being overweight can be associated with reduced fertility but I don't think it makes any difference where you carry that weight. Being Active Feeling Good How do you feel about being active while you are pregnant? What do you do now to be active? |