Getting enough folic acid can reduce the risk for neural tube defects (NTDs) and may also reduce the risk for other serious birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.
First, determine the first day of your last menstrual period. Next, count back 3 calendar months and add 1 year and 7 days to that date.
Regular visits to your healthcare provider are an important part of a healthy pregnancy. You and your growing baby will be carefully watched with tests done to assess any potential risks and develop a treatment plan, if needed.
The signs of pregnancy vary from woman to woman, but the most obvious sign usually is a missed period.
Every pregnant woman feels like she’s getting big. But if you’re pregnant with 2 or more babies, you’ll really be growing fast. Be prepared by learning the signs of a multiple birth.
Definitions of terms related to the anatomy of a fetus in utero.
Nausea and vomiting are common in the first trimester, as is fatigue. Other common discomforts are hemorrhoids and heartburn.
Hemorrhoids and varicose veins might seem to be two different, unrelated problems, but they are actually quite similar. And, many women, especially those in the third trimester of pregnancy, have them.
Many hormone levels are affected in the body during pregnancy, with several hormones playing major roles.
Chances are good that you're one of many pregnant people who experience the churning and burning of heartburn or acid indigestion. It typically hits somewhere in the second or third trimester, and it can be miserable.
Much back pain in pregnancy is related to the strain on your back from the weight of your growing baby. Using correct posture can help prevent and even relieve some of the pain.
Average weight gain for women is between 25 and 35 pounds, although slight deviations from this may also be considered normal.
A healthy first trimester is crucial to the normal development of your baby. You may not be showing much on the outside, but inside, all the major body organs and systems of the fetus are forming.
For many people, the extreme tiredness of the first trimester is quite a surprise. And it's an especially hard transition for those who are normally go-getters with lots of energy. Learn more about what causes this fatigue--and what to do to feel better.
First trimester screening combines fetal ultrasound and blood tests for the mother. It’s done during the first trimester of pregnancy, during weeks 1 to 12 or 13. It can help find out the risk of the fetus having certain birth defects.
Managing headaches is especially tricky in the first trimester. This is a time when you should stay away from many medicines.
For many people, pregnancy brings glowing skin, rosy cheeks, and shiny hair. But others can experience skin changes that aren't so attractive, including acne, dark spots, and stretch marks. Read on to learn more.
During this trimester, the weight of your growing baby will multiply more than 7 times — and you will start showing more.
Screening is usually performed by taking a sample of the mother's blood between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy (16th to 18th is ideal).
Today's society is increasingly mobile, and the demands of career and family often require travel during a woman's pregnancy. Here are some tips and guidance for safe travels while you're pregnant.
More than ever, men are actively involved throughout the pregnancy experience. The term expectant father really fits, as men support, worry, and plan right along with their pregnant partners. Some of the more common experiences for expectant dads are included here.
Back pain is common in pregnancy because of your changing body. Here are ideas on what you can do to cope.
A biophysical profile is a test that is sometimes used during the third trimester of pregnancy. It is often done if there is a question about the baby’s health. This may be because of other test results or certain pregnancy symptoms, or because your pregnancy is high risk.
The third trimester marks the home stretch for your pregnancy. You may feel more uncomfortable now as you continue to gain weight. You also may have false labor contractions (called Braxton-Hicks contractions).
Certain tests and screenings may be scheduled during your pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will advise you on which tests you'll need.
Women with high-risk pregnancies often need a close watch for potential problems or complications. Many tests and procedures are available to monitor the health of both mother and baby.
Some of the more common complications of pregnancy are miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and bleeding.
With the correct care, most women can enjoy a healthy pregnancy--even with health challenges, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, infectious diseases, or sextually transmitted infections. Read on to learn more.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have bleeding from the vagina, blurry vision, severe headaches, or other specific symptoms.
Learn more about your child's health