Healthy Pregnancy

Healthy Pregnancy Chapter 5 Section 1

Early signs of pregnancy • Within a few weeks women may experience: • Missed period • Full feeling or mild ache in lower abdomen • Feeling tired or faint • A frequent, urgent need to use the restroom • Swollen, tender, and sore breasts • Nausea and/or vomiting (usually in the morning)

Medical Care • Determine pregnancy (at home test or clinic testing) • Schedule first doctor’s visit with obstetrician • Most hospitals have teams with more than one doctor/nurse that work together to ensure the health of mom and baby • Find a doctor YOU are comfortable with

The First Exam • Check blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and weight • Discussion of medical history • Pelvic exam • Urine analysis for infection and diabetes • Blood tests for anemia and Rh factor • Check for immunity for rubella • Calculation of due date (9 months and 1 week after the first day of her last period)

Later Checkups • Once a month until 6-7 months then it goes to twice a month • In the 9th month – once a week • Monitor health of the baby and mom • 24-28 weeks they will do a glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes and preeclampsia (high blood pressure) • Father or support person that will be at the birth is also welcome at checkups

Discomforts of Pregnancy • Report to doctor if/when: • Excessive nausea and/or vomiting (its normal for 1-4 months) • Sleepiness – common for early in pregnancy (4-6 months more energy, then tired again) • Heartburn – stomach pain, not actual heart problems, if excessive should ask doctors for relief

Discomforts, cont. • Shortness of breath – pressure from the baby’s growth in late pregnancy • Varicose (swollen) veins – pressure on the blood vessels in the legs, gather and sit close to the skin’s surface, plenty of exercise and keeping legs elevated can help relieve • Lower back pain – low healed shoes, proper lifting, or exercise to strengthen back before pregnancy • Constipation/hemorrhoids • Tooth decay

Serious Complications • Vaginal bleeding • Unusual weight loss or weight gain • Excessive thirst • Problems with urination • Severe abdominal pain • Persistent headaches • Severe vomiting • Fever • Major swelling • Blurred vision or dizziness • Prolonged headaches

Nutrition During Pregnancy • Single most important requirement during pregnancy • Protein - lean • Vitamins: folic acid, A, B, C, and D • Minerals: Iron, calcium, phosphorus • Carbs and Fats: whole grains, avoid high sugar and fat foods • Pg 153-154

Nutrition and Teens • Special requirements to support growth of mom and baby • Iron supplements may be needed • Calcium and phosphorus (be mindful of lactose intolerance in milk) • Vegetarians and vegans must be careful to get enough protein

Weight Gain • Typically gain 24 to 30 lbs (pg 156) • The first 3 months may not gain any due to morning sickness • Not gaining enough weight could result in fetal death or prematurity

Other Personal Care • Make sure you get plenty of rest • Exercise – do not start a strenuous routine but moderate is important • Practice good hygiene – keep skin clean, maintain a healthy temperature, bathing may help with relaxation • Should not radically change your habits and activities • Finding maternity clothes that will allow the baby to grow

Emotional Health • You have to discuss things with your spouse • Spend time with those that are supportive • Hormonal changes may lead to mood swings • Work to reduce stress: • Avoid sugar and caffeine • Exercise • Take a time out • Relaxation • Discuss concerns • Take classes for expectant mothers

Depression • Emotions and physical changes change feelings • Outside help may be needed • Find a friend or a place on the internet that provides support groups • Sometimes even books can assist with concerns and improve outlook

Preparing for Baby’s Arrival Chapter 5 Lesson 2

Preparing for Baby

Healthy Pregnancy