Causes of Constipation during Pregnancy:
Painful bowel movements may have many reasons. But, often it is attributed to hormonal changes and lack of exercise. Following are some causes of constipation:

Supplements:
During pregnancy, the nutritional needs increase drastically because of the fetus development. One cannot fulfill the needs of the body by taking healthy diet. Thus, gynecologists often prescribe vitamin, iron or calcium supplements for ensuring healthy delivery. However, these supplements can sometimes cause problem. Excessive calcium or iron dosage may interfere with normal bowel movement resulting in constipation.

Hormonal imbalance:
Hormonal changes are one of the most common causes of constipation. Pregnancy disturbs the production of progesterone and estrogen hormones. If any of these two hormones is produced in excess it may have a negative impact on several bodily functions like bowel movement and digestion. Fluctuation in these hormone levels can slow down bowel movement, causing constipation.

Developing fetus:
Another reason is growing baby in the womb. The tummy protrudes as the months pass on. This bulged up tummy puts excess stress on lower intestinal muscles. Hence, lower intestines may not eliminate the fecal matter, as they have to support the changes in body posture. Excessive stress on intestines may result in difficulty in stool movement, causing constipation.

Lack of exercise:
During pregnancy, exercise takes a backseat. Though this is normal because of increase in weight, avoiding it completely is not suggested. It is must to reduce physical activity level but that doesn’t mean to remain physically inactive. Lack of physical activity can result in infrequent bowel movement. It happens due to lack of exercise. Intestinal muscles lose flexibility and results in slow movement of stools.

Thyroid problems:
One of the causes of constipation in pregnant women may include thyroid disorders. Thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism can trigger constipation. Regular bowel movement becomes haywire in hypothyroidism and hence most pregnant women complain about constipation.

Home Remedies for Constipation during Pregnancy:
Following are some simple home remedies for constipation:

High fiber diet:
It is must to consume foods that are good sources of fiber such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole wheat breads. This adds bulk to stool and prevents constipation. However, increase fiber consumption gradually in the diet. Avoid processed foods, cheese and sugar. Also, do not take large meals instead take 6 small meals at regular intervals. Chew food properly.

Prune juice:
Pregnant women are suggested to drink prune juice as it has mild laxative properties. This juice provides simple sugars to the body which help to draw fluids to intestines. Additional fluid aids in softening of stool and aids in easier bowel movement. Every morning eat a few prunes or drink a glass of prune juice.

Stool softeners:
Colace is a best stool softener for treating constipation. It has docusate that draws water into intestines and softens the stool in digestive tract. Additionally, as the active ingredients of drug are not absorbed by body, the fetus will not have any danger. However, it is best to consult the doctor before using any stool softener.

Avoid holding bowel movement:
You must not hold stool for a long period after you feel bowel movement. Holding will harden the stool in digestive tract. It becomes dry and cumbersome to get out of body.

Drink more water:
Always keep your body hydrated. Adequate amounts of fluid hydrates the stool and softens it. It facilitates bowel movements and avoids hardening of stool in intestines. Hence, a person must drink 8 glasses of water every day.

Saffron during Pregnancy:
Some people believe that saffron is beneficial in the development of fetus’s skin. It is said that intake of saffron improves the complexion of the baby. There are no evidences to support or deny this statement, but it may be harmful if taken in large amounts.

However, remember that as other pregnant women used it without any problems, it doesn’t mean that it’s safe. It may increase the risk of birth defects or miscarriages as these occur rarely.

Tips to Take Saffron during Pregnancy:
Permissible amount: One must not take 10 grams or more as it can cause contractions. Saffron stimulates the uterus. Before taking it, one must consult the obstetrician. Moreover, one must avoid fake saffron which is available plenty in market.

Experience of other pregnant women: You must consult the other women who had used saffron during their pregnancy. They may share their negative or positive experiences with you. After that you may decide whether to take it or not.

Saffron along with milk: You must add 2 – 3 strands of saffron to milk and consume it. People say that it improves the digestion of the baby and also improves the complexion of the baby. You must use this after the first trimester.

Saffron with the other dishes: You can add a few strands of saffron to rice, soups and many other dishes for flavor. You must not forget to take it in limited amount.

As saffron is a natural product, women should not believe that it is safe. Consult the gynecologist for understanding the benefits and risks of saffron during pregnancy.

If you are unable to conceive do not worry. Read on to learn about effective infertility treatments. Infertility can be rectified with medications, surgery, assisted reproductive technology or artificial insemination. You can also try a combination of these methods. We also reveal useful home remedies that can help you conceive a baby.

Basis of Infertility Treatments
Specific treatments are decided based on:

• Results of tests
• Duration of time the partners have spent trying to conceive
• Age of the couple
• Their overall health condition
• The partners’ preference

Infertility Treatments for Men

• For sexual problems like premature ejaculation or impotence, doctors prescribe medicines and/or behavioral therapy.
• If the problem is less sperm count, then surgery can be tried. If infections affect the sperm count, antibiotics are needed to treat them. Doctors are also capable of surgically removing sperm from the male reproductive organs.
• Sometimes the semen may lack sperm due to blockages in the reproductive system. To correct this, surgery is required.

Infertility Treatments for Women

• Surgery can cure physical problems in women which cause infertility.
• If women suffer from ovulation problems, doctors may prescribe medicines for treatment. These medications have benefits, dangers and side effects. Discuss all these with your doctor before you start taking them.

Medications to Cure Infertility in Women

• Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
• Metformin (Glucophage)
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) analog
• Follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH (Follistim, Gonal-F)
• Human menopausal gonadotropin or hMG (Pergonal, Repronex)
• Clomiphene citrate (Clomid)

Artificial Insemination
This method is also called Intrauterine insemination (IUI). This treatment involves injecting pre-prepared sperm into the female partner. The doctor may use medications to stimulate ovulation before carrying out the IUI procedure.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
ART involves removal of eggs from a woman’s ovaries. These eggs are then combined with sperm to create embryos outside the body. These embryos are inserted into the woman’s reproductive organs. ART is time-consuming and expensive. But, many couples have benefited from this treatment. The common problem is multiple fetuses.

Home Remedies for Infertility

• To increase cervical mucus, consume foods rich in vitamin C. Nitric oxide can also increase cervical mucus and raise blood flow to the sexual organs.
• Consume grape seed extract as it protects sperm and makes vitamin C more effective.
• Evening primrose oil is another good home remedy for infertility as it increases the quantity and quality of cervical mucus.
• To treat infertility, consume foods rich in calcium like yogurt, cheese and milk.
• Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits. Folic acid is a recommended nutrient for treating infertility. Foods rich in folic acid are lentils, orange juice, broccoli and spinach.

Tips to Treat Infertility in Women

• To increase cervical mucus, drink cough syrup during the period of ovulation.
• If your periods are irregular and you have stopped ovulating, consult a gynecologist.
• Go easy on exercise.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothes.
• Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake.
• Maintain a dairy with information on your fertile days.
• Eat nutritious foods like poultry, whole wheat bread, brown rice and oatmeal.
• Drink lots of fluids to increase cervical mucus.
• Smoking is a leading cause of infertility, so if you are smoker quit immediately.

Benefits of Chocolate During Pregnancy:

• Eating chocolate during pregnancy lifts up your mood and it can make you feel positive. This is effective as you will be stressed due to the various changes taking place in the body. You can feel the utmost happiness after eating it during the stress times.
• Chocolate reduces the chances of pre-eclampsia, a life threatening condition which can sometimes occur during pregnancy. The chemical component called theobromine present in the chocolate stimulates the functioning of the heart. It even facilitates blood vessel dilation and relaxes smooth body muscles. Therefore the blood pressure becomes steady reducing the pre-eclampsia risk.
• Iron and magnesium play a major role in fetal growth and brain development. And chocolate is rich in both these minerals. In fact, a pregnant woman who craves for chocolates is believed to be deficient in iron and magnesium.
• Chocolate has got antioxidant properties due to its rich flavonoid content. This helps in improving the cardiovascular health and immune system functioning of the pregnant woman.

The gynecologist may suggest you to stop consuming coffee, but may permit you to eat chocolate as chocolate contains very less amounts of caffeine compared to coffee. One can take 270 mg of caffeine per day and chocolate contains only 5 – 30 mg of caffeine. Therefore, it can be taken in moderate amount with no worries.

Risks of Eating Excess Chocolate during Pregnancy:

Eating excess chocolates may not be good for the baby as it can increase the caffeine amounts in the body and therefore brings problems for both mother and baby. Some of the risks include:

• Interference with iron absorption, therefore causing iron deficiency in mother
• Heartburn, which is the common condition during pregnancy, can be aggravated
• Decreased blood flow to the uterus, resulting in less nutrients and oxygen supply to the fetus
• In later stages, the sleeping pattern of the baby can be affected
• Birth defects or low birth weight may arise

By this, you might have got a clear idea about the benefits and risks of eating chocolate during pregnancy. So it is better to be cautious on the amounts you consume.

Smoking during pregnancy

can have ill effects on both the mother and baby as well. Read through the below lines to know in detail about the consequences of smoking.

Effects of Smoking During Pregnancy:

Following is a list of effects of smoking while pregnant:

Premature delivery:

Premature labor and delivery consequently are the dangers of smoking. As we are aware of the earlier labor and the delivery, it is harmful for the baby, as the vital organs of the baby will not be developed completely. The baby wouldn’t be able to breathe properly and may need some assistance. If the baby is weak, it can result in death of the baby.

Miscarriage:

Miscarriage is the most common effect of smoking while pregnant. There are chances of miscarriage even if you don’t smoke. The chances of miscarriage increase if you smoke in pregnancy. It is a fact that smoking can even kill an unborn baby. Additionally, stillbirth risk also increases with smoking.

Birth weight:

There is no surprise that smoking in pregnancy can result in low weight of the baby at the birth time. The substances in cigar smoke cross placenta in blood stream of baby, which hinders fetus growth. This does not provide sufficient nutrition to fetus growth and development.

Birth defects:

Many birth defects such as cleft lip or cleft platelet are observed in babies. Besides this, the baby may develop mental retardation, cerebral palsy or learning disabilities. Another important thing is that smoking doesn’t let sufficient oxygen to enter bloodstream. In pregnant women, this can have a negative impact on the blood of the baby. This results in increased heartbeat of the baby.

Placenta problems: If they smoke in pregnancy, women can face problems associated to placenta. The placenta may get separated from uterus before the baby’s birth or the placenta may get very low.

Other problems that can develop in babies whose mothers smoked during pregnancy are poor health and behavioral problems. Passive smoking can also harm the fetus.

Dangers of Secondhand Smoke:

Besides harmful effects of smoking on the mother and baby, there are other side effects which can be caused by passive smoking. You might be wondering that even the secondhand smoke have effects on baby. You must know that even secondhand smoke have same effect on the baby and the mother. Following are some effects of passive

smoking during pregnancy

.

• Decreased milk production
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Hypertension
• Tuberculosis
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Persistent sore throat
• Asthma
• Lung cancer
• Constant cough

common pregnancy myths

.

Most Common Pregnancy Myths:

Following is a list of some common myths in pregnancy:

1. The most common classic myth is that if the pregnant woman is carrying low, the baby will be a boy, while it will be a girl if she is carrying high. There is no scientific evidence for this. If you carrying low, it means that you are closer to delivery. Factors like her posture, position of fetus, structure, her muscle size and the amount of fat deposited around abdomen play a vital role in shape and size of the belly.
2. Another common myth is that most women go into labor during full moon phase. This is not true.
3. Sex induces labor. This isn’t true and there is no scientific evidence for proving this.
4. Spicy foods induce labor. Also, there is no scientific logic behind this.
5. Most people say that stretch marks are the natural resultant of the pregnancy. It is a fact that some women do not get them at all.
6. If a pregnant woman craves for sweet foods, then it is a baby girl. Craving salty foods would indicate a baby boy. A pregnant woman craves for many things during pregnancy and there will be no particular cravings, but none of these cravings determines sex of the baby.
7. Another classic myth is that swelling of nose. If the nose of a pregnant woman swells, then she is going to have a girl. The appearance of the mother and the gender of the baby are not at all related. Nose swelling can be due to the increase in estrogen level that increases blood flow to mucus membrane resulting in expansion of nose.
8. Another popular myth is holding the wedding ring over the pregnant belly for detecting the gender of the baby. If the string moves to and fro, it is a boy, while a baby girl if it moves in circular motion. Again it’s not true.
9. If you do not have morning sickness, then a boy is in your way. Nearly 50% of pregnant women experience some degree of morning sickness. It is a myth that women carrying a boy are protected from testosterone hormone by male fetus. According to doctors, relaxin is a hormone which is responsible for nausea in women.
10. Another myth is the heartbeat of the baby. If the heartbeat of the baby is slow, then it is a boy. A girl child is on your way if the heartbeat is faster. Usually the heartbeat of the fetal is between 110 – 160 beats per minutes (BPM). Some people think if the heartbeat is above 140, then it’s a girl and if it’s slow, a baby boy. But there are no evidences to prove this. Anyways the heartbeat of the baby varies from one prenatal visit to next based on fetus’s age.
11. Most people believe that having sex during pregnancy can hurt the baby. The baby is protected by seven skin layers from abdominal wall to amniotic sac. In a pregnant woman, the cervix has hardened and lengthened from anything entering the uterus. In addition, cervix produces mucus for keeping the vagina clean and free from infection. Intercourse can’t touch, reach or harm baby. If there is a complication in pregnancy, the doctor may advise not to have intercourse.
12. Heartburn is one of the most common discomforts during pregnancy. People believe that heartburn during pregnancy means the baby will be born with thick hair all over the body. Women with this have given birth to bald children also.
13. Backaches are common during pregnancy. Some simple changes can prevent backache. Firstly pay attention to the posture. Do not arch the shoulder back by pulling the shoulders back but not the abdomen. Wear flat heel shoes because they do not put pressure on lower back.
14. Most people think that pregnancy and delivery is hereditary. But it is not. The position and size of the baby, lifestyle, attitude and diet play a vital role in determining the difficulty or ease of the pregnancy and delivery.
15. Sleeping on the back may hurt the baby. If you lie for a short period, you won’t hurt the baby. If you sleep on your side, both of you will feel better. Doctors suggest sleeping on left side because it increases blood flow to placenta and uterus.

These are a few

common pregnancy myths

. If you have any queries regarding pregnancy and myths, consult the doctor for suggestions.

We all know that pregnant women should avoid consuming raw seafood, excess caffeine and alcohol. But, what should they eat? In this article we reveal foods that

pregnant women should eat

as these foods are rich in nutrients like magnesium, vitamin A, calcium, protein, vitamin C, fiber, folic acid and iron. Read on to learn more about

what pregnant women should eat

.

Iron Supplements

Nutrition experts say most pregnant women do not consume enough iron to help both mother and fetus. Mayo Clinic says that pregnant women should consume 27 milligrams of iron per day.

Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are essential for pregnant women as they contribute a chunk of the daily requirement of iron. Eat dry kidney beans as they are easier to absorb.

Beef

Lean cuts of beef are recommended as they are rich in iron and proteins necessary for healthy blood and fetal development. Mayo clinic says

pregnant women should eat

about three ounces of beef every day.

Cereal

Cereals are great especially those fortified with calcium, iron and fiber. They also contain folic acid which is important for the good health of mother and baby.

Chicken

Pregnant women should consume about 71 grams of protein every day for good health of mother and fetus. Just three ounces of chicken gives about 28 grams of protein. Chicken also contains invaluable iron content.

Eggs

Cooked eggs are recommended but pregnant women should avoid undercooked and raw eggs. Just one large egg gives about six grams of protein as well as iron. Egg yolks are particularly good.

Peanuts and Peanut Butter

Folic acid in peanuts reduces the risk of birth defects and premature labor. Mayo Clinic suggests that pregnant women should consume 800 micrograms of folic acid a day. Peanuts and peanut butter are recommended to add folic acid and protein to diet.

Oranges

Oranges and fortified orange juice are rich in vitamin C and calcium. They also help in iron absorption.

Cheese

Low-fat cheese is recommended for pregnant women as it contains plenty of protein and calcium. Both these nutrients are essential to maintain the good health of mother and baby. But, you should avoid consuming unpasteurized cheese.

Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in calcium and fortifies the muscular, nervous and circulatory systems, besides teeth and bones. Adequate calcium is important for the fetus, otherwise it will take the nutrient from the mother’s skeleton, which will render her vulnerable to bone breaks and cracks.

Milk

Skimmed milk is recommended as it contains plenty of calcium and protein.

Bananas

These fruits are rich in vitamin C, fiber and vitamin B6. These nutrients are essential to keep the mother and child strong and healthy through the pregnancy period.

Almonds

Almonds are a valuable addition to a pregnant woman’s daily diet as they are rich in protein, magnesium, fiber and calcium

What Pregnant Women Should Eat: Other Recommended Foods

• Dried Apricots
• Whole Wheat
• Lamb
• Pork
• Soy Milk
• Pomegranates
• Tomatoes
• Walnuts
• Pasta
• Apples
• Carrots
• Strawberries
• Dried cherries
• Soybeans
• Broccoli
• Oatmeal
• Okra
• Lentils
• Pineapple

Foods to Avoid

Read on to learn about some foods that pregnant women should avoid:

• Uncooked and raw meat
• Undercooked and raw eggs
• Unpasteurized dairy products and milk
• Seafood and fish
• Deep-fried food items
• Sugary foods and drinks

Summary

What pregnant women should eat

is one of the most important aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. They should be wise in consuming good foods and avoiding bad ones. Here’s to a healthy pregnancy and happy childbirth.

]]> http://www.drgranny.com/2011/10/07/what-pregnant-women-should-eat/feed/ 1 http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/21/pregnancy-with-hepatitis-b-%e2%80%93-what-pregnant-women-should-know/ http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/21/pregnancy-with-hepatitis-b-%e2%80%93-what-pregnant-women-should-know/#comments Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:49:04 +0000 admin http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3695 According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are about 800’000 – 1.4 million persons infected with chronic Hepatitis B in the United States, with a total of about 4’000 acute, symptomatic cases nationwide. The rate of infected males has been higher than the rate of females. But there is still one case per 100’000 population among females. And since most of these women are in the childbearing age,


pregnancy with Hepatitis B

is an important topic.

What is Hepatitis B?

This virus is a widespread, highly contagious pathogen of an infectious liver inflammation (Hepatitis B) which can trigger jaundice and can cause AIDS. This infection can get transmitted for example during sexual intercourse. But a Hepatitis B vaccine can provide immunity in most of young healthy adults.

In the United States, there are approximately 22’000 pregnant women infected with Hepatitis B every year and they can transmit the virus during birth. 90 percent of these patients develop antibodies and acute illness. Some people are chronically infected but have no symptoms. Hepatitis B is the most common viral disease in the world. According to the World Health Organization, one third of the world’s population is infected with this disease.

What Happens when Pregnant with Hepatitis B?

In the United States, pregnant women are required by law to get tested for Hepatitis B during an early prenatal visit and since December 2011 all positive infected pregnant women get reported by law to the local health department.
Furthermore, newborns of infected mothers get a protective vaccination within the first twelve hours after birth, in the age of one and six months because around 20% of women positive for Hepatitis B transmit the virus to their neonates in the absence of immune prophylaxis in the womb, during childbirth and breastfeeding. The child’s risk to get infected is related to the health of the mother. A poor immune status increases the risk of transmission since the higher the amount of virus in the blood of the mother, the higher the risk for transmission. Also, it causes pre-term labor and pre-term birth in a higher transfer rate.

But because of various preventive measures, it was possible that the risk of transmission got reduced to less than 1 % and therefore.

What If The Child Gets Infected?

Unlike adults, Hepatitis B of infants who have been infected by their mother during birth is often chronic. Around 90 percent of infected newborns have to live with dangerous consequences of chronic Hepatitis.

Which measures should be sought in a pregnancy with Hepatitis B?

Since a post-exposure prophylaxis and an active immunization transmission right after birth prevents a transmission from mother to child in approximately 95 percent cases, many other actions than these must not be taken. Infected mothers can even breastfeed and the type of birth – natural or caesarean section – doesn’t play a subordinate role either.

How Can I Protect Myself from a Hepatitis B Infection?

• An active vaccination against Hepatitis B is the safest protection against infection.
• Use condoms when having sex.
• Don’t share any item that could have blood from an infected person on it such as razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers, medical instruments.
• Don’t share drug needles.
• Don’t touch sores and rashes of infected persons.
• Clean blood spills with household bleach.
• Persons who are infected must not pre-chew food for infants.
• If you are exposed to the Hepatitis B virus, get immune globulin within 14 days.

Even though the risk to transfer the virus to the newborn is very small, a


pregnancy with Hepatitis B

can’t be underestimated. Speak with your doctor about it or get advice from a specialist office.

Further information is also available on the website of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov).

]]> http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/21/pregnancy-with-hepatitis-b-%e2%80%93-what-pregnant-women-should-know/feed/ 0 http://www.drgranny.com/2011/05/11/mood-swings-during-pregnancy/ http://www.drgranny.com/2011/05/11/mood-swings-during-pregnancy/#comments Wed, 11 May 2011 05:23:26 +0000 admin http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3215 A few minutes of happiness and a sudden move towards dark and deep depression havoc in a second. Do you feel that you are on roller coaster of emotions during pregnancy? This article helps you to deal with


mood swings during pregnancy

.



Depression, body image issues, personal feeling regarding control, self-esteem issues and emotional liability are the major emotions which prevail during pregnancy. It is must to understand both emotional and physical changes to understand the situation and also to have a positive experience. So, read on to know more about the causes of mood swings and simple methods to balance them.

What causes Mood swings?

• Changes in hormone levels in body are the major causes of mood swings. During pregnancy, your body is full of hormones such as progesterone and estrogen and the imbalance of these can cause emotional changes.
• As discussed earlier, with physical changes which your body experiences may make you feel that you are unattractive and hence, depressed about your physical appearance. Other effects may also affect you like heartburn and fatigue.
• Stress during pregnancy can also be another cause of mood swings in women during pregnancy. If it is your first pregnancy, you might be wondering what have you done and is this the right time to have a baby.
• You might be questioning yourself whether you are capable of being a good mother to take care of your baby. In this situation, you might be in a state of confusion.
• A fear of an increased financial responsibility may worry, resulting in mood swings.

How to Overcome Mood Swings?

• Laugh:

  Ensure that you get enough dose of laughter every day. Remember to stay happy always and you will not face any mood swings.

• Meditation and yoga:

  To be free from emotions and to calm down, you must practice meditation and yoga.

• Speak up:

  Suppressing your emotions can make you to rip off your hair. Speak out your feelings to your partner about the fears, concerns, sadness and joys. It will definitely make a difference.

These are a few methods to overcome


mood swings during pregnancy

. If you think these methods are not working and if you are feeling blue still, consult the counselor who helps you to cope with mood swings.

]]> http://www.drgranny.com/2011/05/11/mood-swings-during-pregnancy/feed/ 0 http://www.drgranny.com/2011/04/19/early-pregnancy-symptoms/ http://www.drgranny.com/2011/04/19/early-pregnancy-symptoms/#comments Tue, 19 Apr 2011 05:31:27 +0000 admin http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3120 Becoming a mother itself is a blessed feeling. Most people say this. To enjoy those moments you must know


early pregnancy symptoms

. A woman desperately waits for this happiest moment in her life. To enjoy each and every moment after conception, you must know the


early pregnancy symptoms

. So let us discuss in detail about some early signs of pregnancy.



Early Pregnancy Symptoms:

It is must to understand the signs and symptoms of pregnancy because these symptoms may be related to other health conditions. Some women may experience these symptoms a week after conception while some after a few weeks or they may not be present at all. Following are the most common


early signs of pregnancy

.

• Implantation bleeding:

  This can be one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. The embryo implants itself to the uterine wall about 6 – 12 days after conception. In some cases, women may experience spotting and cramping also.

• Missed period:

  This is the first sign of pregnancy. Although, a woman may bleed when she is pregnant, it could be less than the normal flow.

• Increase in basal temperature:

  An increase in basal temperature is another sign of pregnancy. After ovulation the temperature may increase and it may persist till next menstrual period occurs.

• Tenderness in breast:

  As the hCG hormone concentration increases, breasts may become swollen and tender. The veins in the breast may become invisible and nipple may become dark, erect and extremely sensitive.

• Cramping:

  Some of the women begin developing cramping immediately after a week or after ovulation. Cramping during early pregnancy is also referred to as implantation cramping. This occurs when embryo implants itself into the lining of the uterus and thus uterus prepares itself to carry a baby for 9 months.

• Morning sickness:

  This is another most common early pregnancy sign. A woman experiences this in the morning but some may experience it throughout the day.

• Dizziness or fatigue:

  Due to several hormonal changes, a woman may feel sluggish and tired, particularly if she stays hungry for a prolonged period. She may also suffer from fatigue, lightheadedness and dizziness.

• Frequent urination:

  It is an unpleasant symptom which shows a couple of weeks after conception. As the uterus swells and fetus grows, there is much pressure on bladder that makes a woman to urinate more.

• Food cravings:

  Because of hormonal fluctuations, some women develop an irresistible liking to some foods particularly sweets. This situation becomes so intense that women may become depressed and irritated if their cravings are not gratified.

• Mood swings:

  This is very common during pregnancy even though this comes into control in second trimester. Women become very excited and happy at one situation and dull and sad the next moment, due to fluctuations in hormones. The partner must be supportive and must understand her condition.

• Constipation and heartburn:

  As the uterus swells, it exerts more pressure on stomach and other body parts that results in slowing down the digestion process. This may result in constipation and heartburn. The digestion process slows down to absorb more vitamins and minerals, resulting in constipation. Heartburn during pregnancy develops because foods remain in stomach for a longer period and thus, it produces more acids. You can overcome this by drinking plenty of water and eating vegetables, fruits, bran cereals and so on.

• Lower back pain:

  This is the most common symptom during pregnancy. The change in the body, increase in body weight and swelling of uterus because it prepares itself for the baby, can result in lower back pain. Back pain can also occur due to sleeping posture during this time. Cramping can also be observed. Women can notice cramps in the morning and while sleeping because body relaxes at this moment. To get relief from back pain and cramps, do some exercises.

Often


early pregnancy symptoms

resemble premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Although a longer luteal phase and high body temperatures are some indications of pregnancy, to ascertain your pregnancy, you may conduct a pregnancy test at home. Some symptoms may not be pleasing, but you can smoothly sail through those situations by thinking about the life growing inside you.

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