Your body goes through many changes when you are pregnant. Do not be overwhelmed. There is plenty of advice that will help you through the journey. At the center of every expectant mother, is the question of what to do when something unexpected happens. With the help of your doctor and by paying attention to the changes your body makes, you can be prepared for anything unexpected that may occur during your pregnancy.
One of the most important things to remember is that every woman is different in pregnancy. Morning sickness is a great example. Some women experience frequent morning sickness, while others do not experience any. It is a good idea to keep track of when you are feeling sick. Morning sickness can be a normal part of pregnancy; however, for some women it can be a sign for an underlying health problem. The best advice is to write down how you feel and ask your doctor. It is easy to forget how sever a feeling can be, so writing it down will help give your doctor a more complete picture of your morning sickness to determine if it is normal or may be an indicator of something else.
Weight gain is another standard part of pregnancy. Some women gain very little, while others put on the pounds. Rapid weight gain in pregnancy can be a sign of an underlying issue, such as gestational diabetes. This is the main reason why doctors check blood pressure and blood sugar during each visit. Keep track of your weight, and do not be afraid to ask your doctor the parameters for normal weight gain. If you are concerned with mild weight gain, ask your doctor for simple exercises you can do while pregnant to maintain your physical fitness.
Pay attention to contractions and any bleeding. Contractions and bleeding early in pregnancy can be signs of a miscarriage. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Sometimes drugs can be administered to prevent miscarriages, and your doctor can also prescribe bed rest. Later in pregnancy, contractions that feel irregular can also be a sign something is wrong with your baby. Talk to your doctor and about what should feel normal and what an abnormal contraction feels like. Remember, you knowing your body is the best way for you to bring a healthy baby into the world.
Some of the biggest risks that you can be around when pregnant are drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. Both can cause low birth weights of infants and also developmental problems. Hopefully, every pregnant woman should abstain from using drugs, tobacco, or alcohol. It is also a good idea for the partner of the mother to also abstain from using drugs, tobacco, and alcohol to show support of the mother. If you are pregnant and use any of the previous things mentioned, you should communicate this to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to help you with the cessation of your bad habits.
Knowing your body and sharing information with your doctor are the most important step in planning for the unexpected during pregnancy. By keeping a pregnancy journal, and making sure you go to the doctor regularly, you can optimize the health resources you have available to you and your unborn child.