Pollutants in the air are something many people worry about, and in some areas of the country this information is reported on the evening news. It turns out, this fear is not unfounded. There is mounting evidence from studies conducted around the country that exposure to air pollutants during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of complications, negative outcomes at birth and problems throughout infancy and early childhood.

Several studies have looked at particulate and nitrous oxide emissions from vehicle exhaust and the effect of this exposure on the developing fetus. Most pregnant women are exposed to some level of fumes from vehicles, but the level varies throughout the country.

A new study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health suggests that fetal growth may be slowed by exposure to air pollution, resulting in low birth weight and smaller head circumference. The study gathered data on over 400,000 pregnant women in the state of New Jersey from 1999 through 2003.

Data on the air pollution levels was gathered from EPA monitoring sites located near the homes of pregnant women. This information was used to determine the level of air pollution exposure during pregnancy. Based on this information, average pollution levels were assigned to study participants.

The results showed an increased risk of low birth weight baby with higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter. The study showed a higher risk among low income women, who were more likely to live in congested areas with heavy traffic congestion and the related air pollution. Researchers found a higher correlation between air pollution and birth weight when an increase in exposure to pollution occurred in early and late pregnancy.

A separate study showed negative effects on the IQ in children with exposure to air pollution in the womb. This study was conducted by the Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health at Columbia University and published in the journal Pediatrics.

The study focused on women in Harlem and the Bronx. These areas were chosen because they are known to have heavy pollution from traffic. As in previous studies, women living in areas with high levels of pollution were found to be most at risk. These areas are generally located in the inner city areas of major cities throughout the country, including New York City.

For this study, the women carried portable air monitors throughout the study, which gathered data on the exact level of air pollutants in the mother’s environment. This method allowed researchers more accurate data about air pollution exposure levels throughout the pregnancy, compared with estimating the actual level.

The Columbia researchers gathered data on the level of air pollution throughout the pregnancy of each study participant. When the children were five years of age, they were given IQ tests. The children with high levels of prenatal exposure to air pollutants had an average IQ that was four or five points lower than in children exposed to lower levels of pollution.

A University of California study published in Environmental Health Perspectives studied the effect of air pollution on the fetus. This study was conducted on babies born between 1997 and 2006. Researchers found that women who were exposed to higher levels of air pollution during pregnancy were more likely to have a preterm birth. In addition, these women were found to be at higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia, a potentially serious complication of pregnancy for mother and baby.

This study used data collection sites to gather information about air pollution, similar to the New Jersey study, but constructed data collection centers within two miles of the study participants’ homes. This was done to gather more accurate data about exposure without creating estimates, which are less reliable.

Previous studies into the link between air pollution and the health of babies and children have found a relationship between asthma and exposure to air pollutants. As a result of these studies, experts believe exposure to air pollution during critical periods of fetal development and throughout infancy increases the risk of a child developing asthma in childhood.

Although there have been several studies, there remain unanswered questions and opinions vary about how air pollution affects the baby. Some believe the exposure to air pollution could reduce oxygen and nutrients getting to the fetus. Reduced oxygen levels have been linked to problems such as low birth weight, lower IQ and preterm birth. Others believe exposure to pollution may alter cell activity in the fetus in some way. Further study will have to answer these questions and shed more light on the effect of air pollution on the fetus.

Premature Labor affects about 12% of babies in the U.S. and can happen as early by 28 weeks. Early detection is important.

by Patricia Hughes

Preterm or premature labor affects about 12 percent of babies born each year in the United States, according to statistics from the March of Dimes. Preterm labor is classified as labor that begins at or before the 36^th week of pregnancy. Most preterm births occur after 32 weeks, but 6% of all preterm births happen by the 28^th week of pregnancy. Early detection is crucial for doctors to stop the labor or provide other potentially life saving treatments for the baby and mother.

There are some warning signs of preterm labor. Some things to watch for include:

Contractions that occur at least ten minutes apart can be a sign of early labor and can be mild enough in the beginning to be confused with Braxton Hicks contractions, or false labor. These contractions may or may not have regular intervals, but if you have having at least four or five an hour, call your doctor or midwife.

Cramping: The severity of cramping or pain in the abdomen can vary, depending on the individual. In many cases, this has been described as similar to the cramping experienced during a typical period.

Discharge: Most pregnant women experience some degree of discharge during their pregnancies. Any changes in vaginal discharge, particularly clear fluid, spotting or bleeding should be reported to your doctor or midwife immediately. Any fluid loss should be reported to your health care provider. Some women mistakenly think they will feel a gush of fluid if the membranes rupture, but it can be a slow trickle, if blocked by the baby's head.

Infection: Certain infections, particularly Beta strep, urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases can play a role in preterm birth. The best way to reduce this risk is to treat any infections, report symptoms to the doctor and for your health care provider to carefully monitor you for signs of preterm labor.

Low Back Pain: Lower back pain can be an early warning sign of preterm labor, as well as a discomfort of pregnancy. Sudden lower back pain should be reported to your doctor, since it can be a sign of early labor. What is sometimes mistaken for normal discomfort can actually be back labor.

Pressure: feeling pressure in the pelvis or the vagina can be a signal of early labor. Feeling the baby pressing down or feeling the baby dropping into the pelvis before the 36^th week of pregnancy can be a sign things are happening too soon. Report these symptoms to your doctor or midwife.

If the baby's movement changes pattern, particularly a noticeable reduction in movements, notify your doctor as well. Report any of these symptoms to your health care provider immediately. Don't worry that you are overreacting. It's better to overreact than to actually be in preterm labor and allow it to continue untreated.

Premature Labor Risk Factors

Although about 40 percent of preterm births have no explanation, there are some risk factors that make preterm labor more likely. Some of these factors involve the baby and others are maternal risk factors. Fetal conditions that increase the risk of a preterm labor, include having a multiple pregnancy, congenital abnormalities in the baby and fetal death often result in preterm labor. Women with multiple pregnancies, carrying babies with congenital abnormalities, those who have a history of preterm labor or other risk factors will have more monitoring of the fetus during the pregnancy.

There are certain factors that put a mother at increased risk of going into early labor. Some conditions that can increase the risk of preterm labor include abnormalities of the cervix or uterus, ruptured membranes, infections, abnormalities of the placenta, such as placental abruption or placenta previa. Certain lifestyle factors, such as drug abuse and maternal smoking also create a greater risk of early labor. Openly discuss any issues with your health care provider, so you can be more closely monitored and problems found earlier.

What to Do:

If you have symptoms of preterm labor, call your doctor or midwife immediately. You will most likely be sent to the labor and delivery unit of your hospital for a complete evaluation. The exact steps taken may vary, according to the circumstances, but some common evaluation tools include electronic fetal monitoring, examination of the cervix, testing discharge for the presence of amniotic fluid and ultrasound.

The March of Dimes offers this handy guide to the symptoms of preterm labor, treatments and what to do if you suspect you are experiencing preterm labor.

Biography
Patricia Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four. Patricia has a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University. She has written extensively on pregnancy, childbirth, parenting and breastfeeding. In addition, she has written about home décor and travel.

by Jennifer Shakeel

If you are anything like me, this is probably the hardest trimester of pregnancy to get through. I say this for a couple of reasons, it is so close to the time that your baby is going to be born that you just can’t stand it. You want to hold him or her, hear the cooing, see the perfect little fingers and toes. I can tell you that this excitement does not go away even when this is your third child.

The second reason I think this is the hardest trimester to get through is because by now, you are feeling pregnant. The aches, the restless nights, this is when you are going to put on the bulk of your weight and frankly, you are just tired of being pregnant. That is where I am at right now, counting down the days. To help, I am going to know tell you what you can expect with your growing baby this trimester and the changes in your body.

Month 7

By now you are feeling the movements of that little acrobat inside you. The movements are going to range from bucking kicks and a flurry of smaller movements. I can tell you from experience that each baby is different. My first child was a wild acrobat that kicked like crazy. My second child really didn’t kick, but stretched all the time. These are different feelings I tell you. It was always fun to watch my second child’s head push up or his feet as he stretched.

Now at 28 weeks baby is starting to put his or her head down. This perfectly normal and automatic and the baby seems to like this position. Baby is also able to sense the difference between light and dark in the uterus. This can impact the sleep wake cycles of baby. Guess what, baby can hear too! Not just the sounds of your heart beat or the gurgling of your stomach, but he or she can hear your voice! So talk to you belly, have your spouse talk to your belly. My son says good night to his soon to be here little sister every night. To get an idea of what the sounds are like, think about the last time you were under water and could hear the people talking around you.

By now, baby is developing eyelashes as more subcutaneous fat is deposited. If you are having a boy then it is now that the testes are descending. Baby is almost 14 inches long and weight about 2.5 pounds. If you were to have baby now, they have a very good chance of surviving.

Month 8

Baby is getting ready to entire the world at this point. The best way to help you get through this month is to remember that everyday your baby is in your uterus at this time is 2 less days he or she would have to spend in the hospital if baby was born now. The red cell production is being done completely by the baby’s bone marrow. Baby is urinating every day into the amniotic fluid at this point. Baby passes about a .5 liter per day.

As far as baby’s eyes are concerned the irises can now dilate and respond to light. Baby is able to open and close their eyes at their will now. The finger nails have reached the end of the fingers, there are some babies that come out needing a nail trim. Had a lot of indigestion during your pregnancy chances are you are expecting your baby to come out with a full head of hair. Know that old wives tales are not always true and it is perfectly normal for baby to come out with flowing locks… or no locks at all.

In the last month baby has packed on about 2 pounds most of which is fat and muscle tissue. This brings baby’s weight to almost four pounds now and they are almost 16 inches long!

Month 9

It is a rare that I get very far into this month. I always go early. Based on my nursing experience, research I am going to tell you what to expect of baby this month. A full term pregnancy is basically a 40 week pregnancy. Typically most women give birth between 36 and 40 weeks. If you haven’t delivered by week 40 they will induce labor. The due date they give you is really just a best guess. The majority of babies will come either 2 weeks before the due date to two weeks after your due date.

Baby’s organs have been completely developed for a while now. This month baby is working on the finishing touches before being born. I call this the in uteuro primping. Just like those last touches you do in the mirror before going out, this is what baby is doing. The lungs are secreting the final burst of surfactant so that the lungs completely expand at birth. The kidneys are producing plenty of urine and he or she is adding another half pound for every week until they are at 37 weeks. Then weight gain slows down. The average weight of a baby is 7.5 pounds and they are 18 to 22 inches long. 

Baby is going to give your body signals as to when they are ready to come out and that is going to induce labor.

You and Your Body this Last Trimester of Pregnancy

You start off the trimester with gaining about 5 pounds your 7th month… guess what, you will continue to put on 3 to 4 pounds each month until you give birth. Like I said, this is where all the weight comes. Fun! Fun! My advice, go out and buy new maternity clothes. You will feel better. Trust me.

You will probably notice that you are little more moody. My husband informed me that this was the month that he noticed I would get upset quicker and it would take me longer to calm down. I had a short fuse… no patience. Fortunately that subsided.

Sleep… ahhh, something you are surely missing in this trimester. I say that it is your mind and body’s way to prepare for long nights with a new baby. To help you get a better nights sleep try drinking something wrong and lay on your side. I can tell you that if I lay on my right side I fall asleep quickly, if I lay on my left it takes me forever to fall asleep. This isn’t saying that I stay asleep, I am usually up three and four times a night, and it takes nothing to wake me up. Again, I know that it is mother natures way of preparing me for a new baby.

That last month, you are going to notice that your belly is changing shape as baby changes positions and begins to drop. This should help breathing, as it should become easier. However, you will notice that you are visiting the potty more often.

I advise that you start making the birth plan. Have plan A and plan B for getting to the hospital when you go into labor. Pack a hospital bag and a diaper bag. If you already have children talk to friends and family to make arrangements for who can help you and hubby while you are in the hospital so that your other children are having their needs met. Know that you can be in the hospital for a day or days. With my first I was in and out in 22 hours. With my second I was in the hospital for 7 days, out for 4 days and we were back for another 5 days. Make a plan! It is better to have the plan and not need it then to try to deal with chaos after having a baby.

Good luck! Many blessings to you and yours with the birth of your precious little baby!

by Jennifer Shakeel

Welcome to Your Second Trimester!

As hard as it may be to believe you are now entering the most exciting phase of pregnancy, at least as far as I am concerned. Of course I enjoy being pregnant until the end of the seventh month and then after that I am tired of being pregnant and want the baby. While a pregnancy is suppose to be 40 weeks long, many last about 35 at the longest.

Anyway, during the second trimester of pregnancy it is time to take a look at what you have to expect. Week by Week things are certainly changing. We are going to go month by month again and let you know about the magic that is happening inside of you and then end with what you are feeling. Hopefully the morning sickness has subsided for you, and that you are getting that burst of energy they say you are suppose to get in the second trimester.

Month Four of Pregnancy

Where is baby at during month four of your pregnancy? Right now the placenta that spent the first trimester growing has now taken over hormone production of the vital hormones that are needed for you to sustain being pregnant. Baby is also producing his or her own bile and insulin. As gross as it may sound your baby is even urinating now every 45 minutes or so. The urine goes into the amniotic fluid.

The heart is getting a good work out now as well, pumping about 25 quarts of blood each and every day. By the time baby is born your baby’s heart will be pumping 300 quarts a day! The tiny little teeth your baby has are all formed now and they are even beginning to have a scalp hair pattern. Even if you aren’t feeling it yet, baby is very active right now.

Right about now you baby weighs about 3 ounces and is the size of a small Subway sandwich. It is possible to see the sex of the baby during an ultrasound right now, however that ultrasound isn’t going to be as reliable as if you wait a few more months. With my first pregnancy they told me the entire time I was having a boy, including by ultrasound. Thankfully we didn’t go out and by anything, because we were all surprised during the delivery when the doctor said, “Oh here he… she comes!” Beautiful and precious, I was ready to do it again. I wouldn’t trade here for the world!

Month Five of Pregnancy

It is possible for you to feel baby move now. Don’t worry if you don’t just yet, it doesn’t mean that there is anything wrong. Typically it is mom’s who have had a baby before or first time mom’s that are very thin that will notice the early movements. You should be able to detect the sleep wake cycles of your baby.

Growth wise there are not any new organ structures forming at this stage of your pregnancy. Finger and toe pads are forming, and finger prints are developing. While last month the baby teeth buds were all there, this month the permanent teeth buds are forming this month. If you are having a girl, her ovaries are starting to develop primitive eggs.

Incidentally, did you know that females are born with the amount of eggs they are going to have for the rest of their life. Which is what causes concerns in women who get pregnant later in life. Males however produce new sperm every three months. I have to tell you honestly, that as a nurse I didn’t know that until this pregnancy, when my age is a bit of a concern. Talking with my nurse friends they didn’t know that either. So I thank the genetic counselor for giving me that bit of knowledge.

If you were to get an ultrasound this month the gender of your baby is going to be more apparent though still not completely accurate. Baby is now covered with lanugo, which is really just very fine hair and he or she will begin to develop vernix which is a lotion like substance that is going to cover their skin. Baby weighs about 10 ounces right now and is 9.8 inches in length.

Month Six of Pregnancy

Here is it! The month you have been waiting for! Those funny feelings in your belly are your baby! It is important that now you are feeling baby move that if movement stops for an extended period of time, like a day, you call your doctor.

As far as growth goes, eye brows are forming and the lanugo that started last month is darkening in color. I said that baby is moving, he or she is also practicing breathing. You might be noticing some contractions, these are what they call “practice” contractions and they aren’t going to hurt you or baby. Baby might not be head down just yet because he or she is still small enough to move all over the place… and trust me… you are going to feel baby move all around!

You are more likely to notice baby’s movements when you are trying to rest. Consider this practice for mother hood. Baby is usually still when you are up and moving around because your movements are rocking him or her to sleep. Once you stop they figure that it is play time and they are flexing those arms and legs and doing their own little baby dance.

Brown fat is also being deposited in baby now. This is a good thing because it will help baby regulate their body temperature at birth. The brown fat will continue to be deposited the rest of the pregnancy and will stop at birth. He or she weighs a little over 1 pound now and is almost a foot long, so almost the size of a one liter bottle of soda.

If baby was to be born now, he or she does have a chance at survival. How big of a chance is dictated by a number of factors.

What About You?

Well there is no doubt that you are putting on weight, which is a good thing. It is also a natural thing. Depending on which pregnancy this is for you and how obsessed you are with your weight will dictate on how hard this weight gain is for you. With my first I couldn’t wait to look pregnant, I gained 55 pounds with that one. My second I was sick the whole time, only gained 20 pounds. With this one I knew the moment I was pregnant, and my body made it evident. I couldn’t fit in my clothes at all, from the get go. I haven’t gained a lot of weight with this one so far, but I am also obsessed with my weight this time. So I keep telling myself that it is all natural, and fine and I can work it all off afterwards.

You should be paying attention to your diet, and if you have any concerns, be sure to consult with your health care provider. The more pregnant you get the more iron your body needs. Don’t worry about supplements, just get a lot of leafy green veggies. Your circulation is also going through some changes. The need to stand and move more often is going to be increased and this will continue from here on out. If you are going from laying down to getting up make sure that you take it slow, it is more likely the more pregnant you get to develop orthostatic blood pressure problems. So when you pop up out of bed without sitting first, you may notice that you are a little light headed. Take it easy.

In the next article we are going to cover the third trimester! My favorite trimester because it means that I am closer to having the little bundle of joy in my arms instead of in my belly!

In the meantime, if you are looking for additional information, be sure to check out the Mayo Clinic Pregnancy Center for some great information: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pregnancy/PR99999

by Jennifer Shakeel

Congratulations! You just found out that you are pregnant! Whether this is your first child or not the excitement is just as intense. Trying to figure out what to expect and when is just as exciting. From one expecting mother to another, let me tell you that you are in for a journey like no other!

Unless you were trying to conceive, chances are that you found out you were pregnant and you are already about two months along. Don’t worry, if that is the case you haven’t missed much with the growing fetus inside you. I am sure that you have felt everything, while you couldn’t put your finger on it, something was different. You didn’t feel like yourself. You might have been more tired than usual, felt like you were coming down with the flu. These symptoms are probably still going on. This is what is called morning sickness.

Don’t kid yourself into thinking that it only happens in the morning or that every pregnant women experiences it. With my first I didn’t get morning sickness. With my second I was nauseated the entire pregnancy. With this pregnancy I spent most of the first trimester tired, nauseated, unable to eat and in the bathroom. 

So what is going on inside of you. The first month of pregnancy actually was the last period that you had and lasts through ovulation. Technically speaking your are not really pregnant at this time. However doctors need to know the first day of your last normal period to better calculate your expected due date.

Month One

You conceived within 24 hours of ovulating. This takes places for most women two weeks before their period. The egg and the sperm partnered up in the Fallopian tube and then spent the next 7 to 10 days down the Fallopian tube to the uterus. The egg is fertilized by now and is going to take up residency in the lining of the uterus. As soon as that happened the signals went out through your body telling it you are pregnant and ovulation was halted.

The “baby” is called a blastocyst right now and measures about .1 – .2 mm. By the time your fourth week of pregnancy rolls around the needed villi are formed an the yolk sac is helping your body sustain the pregnancy until your placenta is fully formed. All of this is going on while you were not feeling quite yourself.

Month Two

This is where all the fun, but really critical stuff happens. Let’s back up, the first trimester is vitally important to the healthy of your baby. Right now in the second month this is when the blastocysts will become an embryo. It is in the second month that there will be heart that will start to beat. At first the heart beat will be very slow, then it will get faster and then slow down again as the pregnancy progresses.

If you were to get an ultrasound you would see that the embryo looks a lot like a kidney bean, with a flutter inside of it. It looks nothing like a human right now. But as the second month progresses things happen. You will be able to tell where the head is and where the bottom is. There will also be limb buds that will sprout, the stomach, lungs, liver and kidneys are all starting to grow. While the embryo knows whether or not it is a boy or a girl, the only way you are going to find out is if you has genetic screening done.

Your baby is about 8 – 11 mm from the top of the head to the bottom of their bum. For most women, this is the month that you actually find out that you are pregnant, unless you are like my husband and I and had been trying for a year for the baby. We knew right away. You know and you are excited, and you can’t wait to be showing! Don’t worry it will come in time… sooner than you think.

Month Three

Congrats! You are finishing your first trimester. For many women that were plagued with morning sickness, the good news is that it should be coming to an end. I say should, but there are no guarantees. Mine, with this pregnancy, lasted into the second trimester, and that burst of energy they say you are suppose to get in the second trimester, ummm… I am still waiting for it and I am almost done with my pregnancy.
 
Anyway, taking a look at the little growing bundle of joy inside you. Right now his or her bones have started to harden. While you don’t feel it, your baby is moving in there and their eyes are wide open. This is because the baby hasn’t developed eye lids yet, but they do have the external parts of the ear.

This month the external genitalia has also begun to develop. Sorry, you still aren’t going to be able to tell even with the best ultrasound whether you are having a boy or a girl. It is in this third and triumphant month that your baby goes from being an embryo to a fetus! Woohoo!

The fetus’s head is the biggest part of their body at this point, it is about half the size of the entire body. Don’t worry, your baby won’t come out that way. Currently the head is large, but the brain that is houses is very similar to the brain will be like at birth. Your baby is approximately 14 grams and is now a little over 3.5 inches long. By the end of this month, your doctor should be able to hear the heart beat with a Doppler.

What About You

So we have gone over what is going on with the baby, and have hinted at what you might have been experiencing. Yes, only hinted. By the end of your third month, you might have already found that your clothes are not fitting like they used to. While you don’t really have to rush out and get maternity clothes right now, it is a good time to start looking.

I have already told you that you probably aren’t feeling like yourself. You are tired, and the thought of having a nap is the best thought you have had in days. I can not stress enough that if at no other time have you ever listened to your body, now is the time. If you feel tired, try to take a nap. Even if it is only for 15 minutes. Get the extra rest your body is asking for.

I am sure that you are starting to have to visit the bathroom more frequently. This doesn’t mean that you should stop drinking. It is really important that right now you increase your water intake and decrease your caffeine intake. You should also be taking prenatal vitamins and making healthier eating choices. The reason here is two fold, one you need the nutrients to make sure you are healthy throughout your pregnancy. Secondly your growing baby needs those nutrients to make sure he or she is growing properly.

Oh, we can not forget all the fun feelings you are having. Mood swings are common during the first trimester as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes you are going through. Relax, make sure that you talk with partner. You have six more months to get through.

The decision to have a baby is often filled with a variety of different emotions. Although bringing a new baby into this world is a joyous occasion, pregnancy can often bring on a variety of different symptoms. One of the most common symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue.

During the early stages of pregnancy, your body is trying to work double time in order to keep up with all of the changes that are occurring. Some of the changes that are occurring include an increase production of hormones, as well as an increased blood flow. Along with the increased blood flow, the heart is pumping faster and harder to accommodate the additional blood flow. The increased blood is necessary in order for the growing fetus to get the nutrients it needs.

One of the primary reasons for extreme fatigue during early pregnancy is due to the increased production of progesterone. Progesterone is known to cause you to become sleepy as well as a natural depressant for the nervous system.

Another reason that can be attributed to fatigue during early pregnancy is because of all the extreme emotions that occur when a woman is pregnant. It is quite common for a pregnant woman to start crying to no other reason than a surge of hormones in her body.

Extreme fatigue is also a cue for a pregnant woman to get as much sleep as possible, before the arrival of the new baby. The body needs to be well rested for the upcoming labor and birth. As well, it is quite common for a new mother to get very little sleep after the new baby arrives.

If you are suffering from early signs of morning sickness, this can also contribute to fatigue during early pregnancy. Nausea and even vomiting can make a person feel extremely run down and exhausted.

In most instances, the extreme fatigue will only last a short while. While each case is different, most pregnant women begin to start feeling better by the second trimester. Unfortunately this feeling won’t last the remainder of the pregnancy. Around the seven month you will begin to start feeling run down and worn out again. This is simply because you are carrying around a lot more weight than what you are used to, as well as having your sleep interrupted by aches and pains, a moving baby, heartburn and frequent trips to the bathroom.

There are a variety of different things you can do to help your body cope with all of the changes that are going on. One of the first things you can do is go to bed earlier than normal. As well, try to take a short nap during the day. Even if you can only get a quick 15 minute nap in, it will rejuvenate you enough to make it through the rest of the day.
You will also want to try to minimize your social and household commitments. If you work outside of the home, you may want to consider cutting your hours back. If possible, take a vacation or sick day during the middle of the week to help build up your energy. Proper diet is also essential to help build up your energy. As well moderate exercise will help you to feel better.

If you are still feeling run down into your second trimester, you may want to consult your physician. Although there are cases where women feel run down throughout their entire pregnancy, you will want to rule out other reasons for your feeling exhausted such as depression. Before you know it, your pregnancy will be over and you will be enjoying your new bundle of joy.

No part of this article may be copied or reproduced in any form without the express permission of More4Kids Inc © 2009 All Rights Reserved

 by Patricia Hughes

When you are pregnant your doctor, family members and pregnancy books will all stress the importance of getting enough rest. This is good advice. Rest is very important for pregnant women. Fatigue is a big problem for many women, particularly in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. Unfortunately, during those trimesters sleep disturbances are very common.

The First Trimester

The biggest problem in the first trimester is fatigue. You can feel like you just can’t get enough rest, even when you go to bed earlier. The fatigue is caused by hormonal changes in the body. There are some experts and mothers that believe there may be a biological function for this fatigue. Pregnant women take naps and go to be early when they are tired. This may be intended to help protect the baby in the early weeks of pregnancy.

The only way to deal with fatigue is to get more rest. You can’t survive on coffee or other sources of caffeine as you would if you were not pregnant. It can be difficult to rest during the day, especially if you work full time or are home with other children. Working women can try to rest during lunch breaks. If sleep is not possible, try closing your eyes and just taking a break.

If you are home with children, try to take a nap with your little ones. If your child or children have outgrown naps, you can designate a rest time in the afternoon. Reading stories or quietly coloring with your feet up can give you a short break in a hectic day. Make up for lost rest by getting to bed a bit earlier in the evening.

The Third Trimester

Fatigue returns with a vengeance in the third trimester. As your baby grows, the pregnancy becomes more physically demanding on your body. To make matters even worse it is difficult, if not impossible, to find a comfortable position to sleep. The pregnant belly can get in the way of finding a good position. Body pillows can help. Three or four bed pillows can be used to support the body to help induce sleep.

When you do find a comfortable position, you may be awakened for a trip to the bathroom. Frequent urination is the result of the baby pushing on your bladder. There isn’t too much you can do about this problem. You can try limiting drinks in the two hours before bed time. Some women find that even when they limit fluids, the bathroom trips remain frequent.

Insomnia

This can be a problem throughout pregnancy, but is also more common in the early and late months. The insomnia could be caused by changing hormone levels. Stress is another big reason for insomnia. Finding out you are pregnant is a life changing event. It is very normal to be worried about finances or other issues related to the new arrival. These pressures can resurface in the final months when the big day is near.

The worst thing you can do if you are suffering from insomnia is to lie in bed and think about the fact that you can’t get to sleep. Get out of bed and leave the bedroom. Try doing something that will make you tired, such as reading, a warm glass of milk or relaxing music. When you are feeling tired, go back to bed and try to get to sleep. You can take comfort in the fact that this too shall pass and you will be able to rest again. Of course, by then your baby may spoil those plans!

When you have discovered you are pregnant, you will soon start thinking of when and how to tell your family and friends. Some couples keep it a secret for a little while and others can’t wait to spread the news.

There are endless possibilities for fun and creative ways to share the news. Of course, you could just make the announcement at the next large family gathering and take care of it all at once. Some people prefer the more personal approach of telling friends and family members individually or in small groups.

Let your personality be your guide. If you love surprises and excitement, there are many creative and unique ways to tell your family and friends. If you are more reserved and don’t feel comfortable doing something huge, go with the subtle approach and just tell the people in your life in person or on the phone.

How to Tell:

Some couples use a little gift to tell grandparents or other family members. This can be a framed ultrasound picture, if you have had an ultrasound. A T shirt or mug that reads “I Love Grandma” or “I Love Grandpa” is a fun surprise for the future grandparents. Other engraved gifts or photo albums with Grandma or a similar expression are good ideas if you go the gift route.

A holiday theme works well if you are planning to tell your family around the holidays. A baby bootie inside an Easter egg, Christmas stocking or jack o lantern is a fun way to surprise the future grandparents and family members with the news.

For family members and friends who live far away, you may want to send an announcement or electronic greeting. Use your imagination and design an announcement or e mail announcement to send to your loved ones.

When to Tell:

There are a few different opinions concerning when to tell family and friends about the new baby. The decision is up to you and your partner. Some couples wait until the first trimester has passed, since the risk of miscarriage drops at this time. Often couples who have had a miscarriage in the past will wait longer to share the news the second time around.

Waiting until the threat of miscarriage has passed will prevent having to share the news of the miscarriage with so many people. Even worse, it prevents a friend from accidentally talking about the baby because she hasn’t heard about the loss. Sometimes women feel drained and don’t want to talk about it with all their friends and family. In this case, it makes sense to wait.

Maybe you can’t wait or don’t want to wait. That is fine too. Telling family and friends about the baby is an exciting time. Some couples can’t wait to shout it from the roof tops. For these couples, telling sooner is the best choice. In the event of a miscarriage, they are surrounded with plenty of love and support. In the end, it is up to you and your partner to make the best decision for your new little family.

I can not think of a more exciting and possibly stressful time in a woman’s life then when she is pregnant, especially for the first time. Anxiety over getting enough sleep and making sure you are eating a proper diet to take care of the tiny little being growing inside of you. I am sure you are curious about how the baby is doing, where it is at development wise, when is gender determined and the list of questions go on and on. This is an exciting time! So let’s take a look at our growing baby through the nine months, see where you are and what you have to look forward to.

In the first month, most women do not even realize that they are pregnant. It is now that the egg is fertilized and conception occurs. You may find it funny to know that your uterus will increase 1000 times its current capacity. Once the egg is fertilized gender is determined immediately. It is important to note that it is not the woman that determines gender, it is the sperm from the man that determines gender. Implantation usually takes place 10-14 days after conception. This can cause some spot bleeding and can make some women think they are starting their period. This spot bleeding is usually light and only last a day or so.

The first month also is when the foundation for the nervous system is developing. The brain, spinal cord, hair and skin are already there. The heart and circulatory system is rapidly forming as well. Though the heart and circulatory are only in their very primitive they are the foundation for the life support system that will support your child for the rest of their life.

Starting the second month, the embryo is about 1/5 of an inch long. The very first heartbeats begin. If you were to have an ultrasound right now, you probably won’t even recognize the little being as a baby. While you can’t hear the little heartbeats, you can see them on the screen during your ultrasound. The wonderful rhythmic beat of the baby’s heart echoes with your own heart beat.

In the second month, the umbilical cord also develops and this is baby’s lifeline while in utero. The blood is pumping now and all four heart chambers are working and making sure that the baby’s body is getting what it needs. The other organs in the body begin to develop now as well. Arm and leg buds appear.

Once you get to ten weeks, the embryo is a whole inch long. The facial features, limbs and hands and feet as well as fingers and toes are noticeable. The nervous system is now responsive.

Looking into your second trimester the fetus is over 3 inches and weighs about an ounce. Muscles and sex organs begin to form. The eyelids, fingernails and toenails form and you will see some spontaneous movements. At week 18, your fetus is 5 inches long and can act like a “baby.” The baby blinks, grasps and can move his or her mouth. Now hair is growing on the head and body of the baby. The fetus is able to suck, swallow and make irregular breathing sounds.

During the second trimester, the fetus can also feel pain. The skin is rather transparent and the muscles begin to lengthen and the bones get harder. The liver and other organs are now producing appropriate fluids. The eyebrows and eyelashes are appearing and the fetus is making more active movements. By the 22nd week the fetus weighs almost a ½ pound and is about 10 inches from head to toe. The sweat glands have developed and the skin is now more opaque then transparent.

The third trimester is probably the most exciting time as the arrival of your new baby is fast approaching. By week 26, your baby can inhale and exhale and even cry. The eyes are formed completely and the taste buds have developed on the tongue. If the baby was to be born now, if the baby received intensive medical care, it would have a 50% chance of survival.

The fetus is perfectly able to survive outside of the womb at week 30. If born now, the baby would be considered premature. The baby is ready to live outside the womb at 40 weeks. This the end of the normal gestational period. When your baby is born, it is born with a waxy protective substance all over the baby called Vernix. This vernix will absorb quickly once the baby is outside of the womb.

This is the progress of your baby from conception to birth. This is an exciting time, take care of yourself and your baby. 

No part of this article may be copied or reproduced in any form without the express permission of More4Kids Inc © 2007 All Rights Reserved

Pregnancy Without Pounds

by Patricia Hughes

Your baby is just about ready to be born. The lungs finish developing this month. When they are developed, they release a substance called surfactant. This helps the baby breathe at birth. Recent research suggests this substance may have another purpose. It is believed it may signal the mother’s body to begin the labor process.

The baby is settling down into a fetal position. As the baby moves lower in the pelvis, breathing may become easier. This is called lightening. The baby rolls and moves, but kicks are lighter. You may notice more regular pattern of sleeping and waking. Some mothers say their newborns continue these patterns after birth.

Keep in mind that your due date is only an estimate. Babies can be born any time between thirty seven and forty two weeks. You should be ready to go to the hospital. If you haven’t packed your bag yet, now is the time. Finalize all plans for child care for your older children, if this is not your first pregnancy. Good planning will help make things smoother when the big day arrives.

The baby is full grown this month. He is gaining about a half a pound each week. The baby will be born weighing between six and ten pounds. About seven and a half pounds is considered average. The average length is between eighteen and twenty two inches in length.

After the thirty sixth week of pregnancy, you will have weekly visits at the doctor’s office. At thirty eight weeks, some doctors and midwives do an internal exam. This is to look for any changes in the cervix. Keep in mind that this isn’t an exact science. Many women have had a visit that showed no changes in the cervix, only to go into labor that night. Don’t be discouraged if the cervix isn’t dilating at this visit.

You may notice your Braxton Hicks contractions are coming more frequently. They may be stronger as well. As they get stronger, you may wonder if labor is approaching. If you aren’t sure, drink some water and lie down. This change of positions is often enough to stop Braxton Hicks contractions. Real labor would continue to progress even after you lie down.

Talk to your doctor about labor. Ask about the protocol in that office. Each doctor handles this differently. Ask when you should call the doctor. Should you call first or go straight to the hospital. Most doctors tell patients to come when the contractions are at least five minutes apart, lasting for one minute and have been that way for an hour. If you have had a fast labor in the past, you may be told to come in sooner.

For many women, the last month of pregnancy is the most difficult. Backache is very common during the last month. You may be very tired. Frequent trips to the bathroom and difficulty in getting comfortable can interfere with sleep. Try to rest during the day to make up for lost sleep at night. Keep in mind that the pregnancy is quickly coming to an end. You will be holding your new baby very soon.

Biography
Patricia Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four. Patricia has a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University. She has written extensively on pregnancy, childbirth, parenting and breastfeeding. In addition, she has written about home décor and travel.

No part of this article may be copied or reproduced in any form without the express permission of More4Kids Inc © and All Rights Reserved

The baby’s body continues to develop and prepare for birth. The bones are getting stronger. The brain and nerves continue to develop. This development will continue after the baby is born. The bone marrow is producing red blood cells this month. Your baby is nearly ready to be born. If he were born this month, he has a good chance for survival. Here are a few things you can expect and plan for during the eight month of your pregnancy.

The fetus is more sensitive to light and sound. The pupils in his eyes dilate in response to light. He opens and closes his eyes frequently. Hair is growing on the head. The finger nails have reached the end of the finger tips. The baby has taste buds developed. He can taste sweet and sour in the fluid. He hiccups and cries by the end of the month.

After 32 weeks, you will have doctor’s visits every other week. This allows the doctor to monitor the baby to help prevent complications. These visits will be similar to the other visits. The doctor will check the baby’s heart rate and will measure the fundal height. The position of the baby will be checked to be sure he is in the head down position.

Bring a list of questions to ask the doctor about labor and birth. Discuss your birth plan and make any changes. Give a copy of the plan to the doctor and the hospital. Be sure to pack a copy in your hospital bag, just in case. Go over the details of the plan with your labor coach to make sure your needs are understood.

During the eight month of pregnancy you will be feeling regular, strong movements. You will begin to feel bony parts, such as heels, knees and elbows sticking out periodically. As the baby pushes up on your lungs, you may feel short of breath. This is normal and will get better as the baby drops into position for birth.

Labor day, forgive the pun, is approaching quickly. You may begin to feel nervous or fearful about the birth at this stage of your pregnancy. Talking can help calm these fears. Find a family member or friend who has had a baby to talk with about your fears. We all know mothers who love to share horror stories with pregnant women. This is not the person to choose. Talk to someone who had a positive birth experience. She will help build your confidence in your ability to give birth if this is your fist time.

If this is not your first baby, begin to prepare your older child. Some hospitals offer sibling classes. Ask your doctor or call the hospital to inquire about these classes. They can be a great way to prepare your child. Classes cover the basics of new born care. A video is often shown of a new baby.

Sometimes the classes include a tour of the maternity floor. Your child will get to see where you will be staying when you have the baby. The tour usually includes a birth room and an empty patient room. They may get to peek in the nursery window and see a newborn baby. Visiting the maternity floor can make your child feel less anxious when you have to leave for the hospital.

Your almost there!! Don't forget to check out our article: The 9th Month of Pregnancy.

What are some of the early signs of labor? Are you ready? After 9 months it all comes down to this. Most women are both excited and a little nervous at the same time. During pregnancy, the greatest fear of a woman who has never conceived a child before is labor pain. Many pregnant women are afraid that they will miss the signs of labor, making them unprepared for their child’s delivery. The amazing thing about pregnancy and the female body is that no pregnant woman can miss the early signs of labor because her body will provide her with clues to tell her that the start of labor is approaching.

For some women, labor only lasts a few hours, while others experience more than a day of labor. Although this part of pregnancy is the most dreaded time, many women say that it is as rewarding as it is a scary experience.

See Also: Childbirth and Calming the Fear of Labor or Natural Pain Relief Childbirth Options

Majority of women experience the early signs of labor weeks before the actual delivery. These signs will help the mother to prepare her body for the approaching delivery. If this is your first pregnancy, expect the early signs of labor to occur weeks before the estimated schedule of your delivery. Otherwise, you can expect these signs to be present a few hours before delivery.

Is It Time For Labor?

During pregnancy, so many changes in a woman’s body occur. Once a woman becomes pregnant, her entire body gradually changes to prepare her for delivering the baby into the world.

A pregnant woman’s body guides her through this natural process from the start to finish by signaling specific clues. The early signs of labor are one of those clues. Identifying each of these early signs can help pregnant women become emotionally and physically prepared in giving birth to her new baby.

How To Identify Each Sign

As your pregnancy comes to an end, the baby’s head usually begin to slide down lower into your pelvis as your uterus becomes soft. This process is known as engagement or dropping, which allows the mother to breathe more easily. Some women experience the dropping of their babies weeks before the baby is born. When this is the case, mothers can expect to conceive any time soon.

One of the most obvious signs of labor is known as pelvic pressure. This condition occurs after dropping and often gives mothers discomfort. This occurs because you baby is giving extra pressure on your bladder and bowel. Pelvic pressure can cause swelling of legs, sharp twinges, aching pubic bones and backaches.

Other early signs of pregnancy labor include vaginal discharge, nesting instinct (an emotional condition wherein the mother prepares for the baby’s arrival by cleaning every thing in the house), Braxton Hicks contractions (stretching of the lower part of the uterus), shivering, trembling and diarrhea.

The last three signs of labor are probably the most important part of pregnancy. These include bloody show, rupture of membranes (water breaking) and regular contractions, which are all signs that labor will happen in a few minutes or hours. These three signs of labor work by helping the mother and baby to work together during the delivery.

Bloody show, which is also known as mucus plug, work as the cervix begins to dilate while the mucus plug begins to dislodge. It is called “bloody show” because a brownish red liquid usually appears. Although this sign of labor usually suggest that labor is near, other pregnancy reports that the “show” occur weeks before the labor starts.

Rapture of membrane or water breaking during pregnancy is the most popular sign of labor. If your water breaks, be ready to go into labor within the next 24 hours. When this happens, the regular contractions normally begin, intensify and signal your body that the baby is getting close.

The last sign of labor is regular contractions. These contractions work by pushing the baby slowly through the lower uterus and thus, your baby is almost within your reach. Pregnancy contractions, along with other early signs of labor, allow doctors, mothers and the baby to work together for a smooth delivery.

Don't forget to check out all our articles on Childbirth and Labor

In the seventh month, the fetus can hear her mother’s heart beat. She knows Mommy’s voice and is starting to hear voices outside mom’s body. She can hear the voices of her family. The baby is also aware of changes in light. She can detect light and dark, especially extremes, such as bright sun light.

The baby’s eyes are open and eye lashes are growing. If the baby is a boy, the testicles will descend this month. Your baby may suck her thumb. By the end of the month, the baby weighs between two and two and a half pounds. She is between thirteen and fifteen inches long. If the baby were to be born now, her chances of survival increase.

As the baby grows, it is getting crowded in the uterus. The baby won’t be able to move as feely in the fluid. This results in lighter movements felt by the mother. The kicks may not be as strong as living conditions get cramped. Sometime after twenty eight weeks the baby will settle into a head down position. Most will stay in this position for the rest of the pregnancy.

At your monthly visit, the doctor will listen to the baby’s heart rate and check the fundal height. This is important for detecting problems such as too much or not enough amniotic fluid. The nurse will check your weight and blood pressure. A urine sample will be taken to check protein and sugar levels.

You may have a glucose tolerance test at this visit. This checks how well your body is metabolizing sugars. It is useful for detecting gestational diabetes. You will be given a glucose solution to drink. Blood will be drawn to determine how well you are processing the sugar.

If you fail this test, you will be given a three hour test. This involves drinking the solution and having blood drawn over a three hour period. This gives a better indication of how the body is processing sugar over time. Don’t panic if you have to go back for the three hour test. Most women who fail the one hour test pass this one.

You may begin to feel some of the discomforts of the third trimester. Some of the common discomforts include constipation, heart burn, headache, indigestion, nasal congestion, back ache and leg cramps. As your belly grows, your center of gravity shifts. This may make you feel clumsy. Your growing baby may also make sleeping more difficult.

Many women begin feeling Braxton Hicks contractions during this month. These are practice contractions. They are not very painful, but feel more like a tightening. These contractions don’t cause the cervix to efface or dilate. Real contractions get stronger and closer together. The general rule of thumb is to call if you have more than four contractions in an hour.

Some women begin to notice colostrum in the breasts. This is the baby’s first milk. Don’t worry if you don’t have colostrum leaking. This is not an indication that you will have trouble breastfeeding. Many women have no noticeable colostrum and go on to have a great experience breastfeeding.

Don't forget to check out our next article. The 8th Month of Pregnancy.

by Patricia Hughes

What are some of the changes in the sixth month of pregnancy. First, the fetus is moving a lot this month. The baby is still small enough to move freely in the fluid and changes positions often. She breathes in fluid and swallows it. This helps the baby develop the muscles used in breathing and eating.

The fetus continues remarkable growth and development. Fat is beginning to form under the surface of the skin. This will keep the baby warm and regulate body temperature after birth. Fine hair, called lanugo, grows all over the body. A waxy substance called vernix helps protect the baby’s skin in the watery environment of the womb.

The facial features look like a miniature newborn baby. The finger and toe nails are growing as well. Meconium is forming in the intestines. This is a black, tar like substance that you will see in the baby’s first stool. The baby has come a long way in six short months.

This mini baby looks almost fully formed. The lungs are not developed yet. If the baby were to be born now, she would spend months in the NICU. By the end of the month, the baby will weigh between one and one and a half pounds. She will be between eleven and fourteen inches long.

It’s important to continue to have regular prenatal care. The doctor or midwife will be able to monitor you and the baby. Complications are easier to prevent and treat if the mother has good care during the pregnancy. Most visits are the same. You will be weighed and your blood pressure will be checked. You will need to give a urine sample. The doctor will listen to the baby’s heart rate and measure the fundal height.

You will be feeling more movements this month. As the baby gets bigger, the movements get stronger and more frequent. You may begin to notice patterns in the time when the baby is active or asleep. Physically, you may experience symptoms such as indigestion, heart burn, bleeding gums, constipation and aches in the lower abdomen.

Some women notice an increased appetite around this time. Eat when you are hungry. Many doctors recommend six smaller meals spaced throughout the day. Choose healthy foods for snacking between meals. This will ensure the best nutrition for your baby. Eating healthy also helps control weight gain.

As your belly grows, you may find your abdomen itches. This is due to the skin stretching as the baby grows. Dry skin may make the itching worse. Body lotion may help with the itching. Apply a moisturizing lotion after you shower to help keep the skin soft and reduce the itch.

How do you plan to feed your baby? Experts agree that breast-milk is best for babies. There are many benefits to both mother and baby from breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about breastfeeding. The key to success is knowledge and support. Read about breastfeeding to gain knowledge. Consider joining a support group such as La Leche League.

If you want to breastfeed, sign up for a class. These are offered at hospitals and birthing centers all over the country. Ask your doctor or call the hospital for information and to register for the class. These classes offer valuable information and cover common concerns. Taking a class will increase your confidence and help ensure success.

Don't forget to check out our next article: The 7th Month of Pregnancy

by Patricia Hughes

The fetus continues to develop at an amazing pace. The internal organs are formed and continue to mature. The muscles are developing this month. The baby’s movements and kicking are good for this development. The baby turns from side to side. He may switch from head up to head down positions frequently.

The pads of the fingers and toes are developing. Your baby’s unique fingerprints are forming this month as well. The baby teeth are forming in the gums. The facial features continue to develop this month. The eyelashes and eyebrows are beginning to grow. The baby’s gender is now visible on the ultrasound. If the baby is a girl, her eggs are forming inside her ovaries.

The baby’s skin is red and wrinkled. The baby is tiny, but is really looking human now. The fetus is also staring to act like a new baby. He will startle at loud sounds outside the uterus. He is beginning to have regular cycles of sleeping and staying awake. By the end of the month the baby weighs about ten ounces and is nine inches long.

You may continue to feel energetic this month. Morning sickness has disappeared for the majority of women. Your belly is starting to look pregnant. If you felt too sick to exercise in early pregnancy, you may decide to start now. Always talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Find something that is low impact and that you enjoy. Take a walk after dinner every night. A prenatal yoga class can be relaxing as well as healthy. Some of the positions and breathing used in yoga may be helpful in labor as well. Swimming is another good choice for pregnant women. The natural buoyancy in the water helps relieve pressure in later pregnancy. Swimming also works the muscles and is a cardio work out.

You have probably been thinking more about the day when your baby is born. You may be forming definite opinions about the birth experience you want for you and your baby. Consider writing a birth plan to spell out your wishes during labor.

Some things included on a birth plan include information on how you want to labor, the atmosphere in the room, fetal monitoring, IV fluids and pain relief. Include information about what you want in each of these areas. Keep in mind that some things can happen that limit your choices. If a potential problem is detected with intermittent monitoring, continuous monitoring may be needed.

Consider the time just after the baby is born. What do you want to happen? Who will cut the cord? This is usually the father or the doctor. Ask your partner how he feels about cutting the cord. Do you want the baby placed on your abdomen after the birth? If you plan to breastfeed, include information on the birth plan. Ideally, the baby should have time at the breast within the first thirty minutes after birth.

A variety of procedures may be done to the baby. This varies from state to state. A common procedure is to put antibiotic eye drops in the baby’s eyes soon after birth. Vitamin K shots are also common. These are used in case the baby has a problem with blood clotting. In some cases, these can be delayed a short time to allow the parents to bond with the baby. The drops make the baby’s vision blurry and some parents want time to gaze into the baby’s eyes before the drops are given.

Think about what you want in your birth plan. If you have any questions, be sure to ask the doctor at your check up. For example, if you are considering fetal monitoring options, ask the doctor for his thoughts. A few good questions can tell you a lot about how supportive the doctor will be regarding your choices.

Don't forget to check out our next article. The 6th Month of Pregnancy