Preservation of pregnancy in the early stages.  What you need to know about early pregnancy: symptoms, tests, tests

Preservation of pregnancy in the early stages. What you need to know about early pregnancy: symptoms, tests, tests

It is fundamentally wrong to perceive pregnancy as a painful condition. This is a natural physiological process, and if the expectant mother is healthy and feels good, she does not need any special one, and it makes no sense to radically change her lifestyle.

However, you should listen to the needs of your body and the advice of a doctor. General recommendations would be:

  • reduce physical activity;
  • spend less time at the computer;
  • monitor your diet;
  • refrain from drinking alcohol;
  • walk more outdoors.

In the first trimester, there are no tangible changes in the general condition of the woman. In some cases, the usual way of life may be interfered with early.

To cope with this symptom, sometimes it is enough to change the diet and allocate more time for rest.

The second trimester is characterized increased fatigue, the need for oxygen in the body increases. During this period, it is advised to spend more time outdoors, walk.

The last trimester is considered security. And therefore, you should not strive to work until the last days of pregnancy.

Pregnancy is also a period when you can pamper yourself a little and listen to your inner biorhythms.

If it would be an unaffordable luxury for a working woman to lie in bed for an extra hour in the morning, then in anticipation of the baby, it would be quite justified not to jump up neither light nor dawn.

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Pregnancy can be accompanied by other unpleasant pain symptoms. In particular, various kinds that can make themselves felt from the first days of pregnancy.

They can be completely harmless, which can be easily dealt with by taking or applying a warm heating pad, or they can be a signal of serious problems. If the spasms get worse, it is important to exclude exacerbations of chronic and other diseases.

Sometimes pregnant women are perplexed by what appears on the stomach. This is a completely harmless manifestation - a consequence of the work of hormones.

The intensity of the color of such an unusual decoration can be avoided if you try to be less in the open sun.

About the importance of hormonal examinations

During pregnancy, complex and rather interesting processes take place in the body. Everything from microscopic hormones to organ systems is tuned to ensure the formation and development of new life.

You do not yet know that conception has occurred, but the brain is already sending a signal to synthesize ten times more - a hormone that protects the embryo from death in the first weeks of existence.

As studies show, HCG does not always cope with its function and such a phenomenon as is very common - when conception ends, barely having time to begin.

The reasons for the interruption are hormonal disruptions, blood diseases and other pathologies. And without careful research, it can be very difficult to establish them.

A study of the hormonal background can tell a lot about the ongoing pregnancy and the condition of the fetus. An important diagnostic value is the definition for women:

Low hormone levels gives grounds to suspect the pathology of the fetus.

The test showed two stripes - clear, bright, convincing. They confirm that a miracle happened and now you will have a child. This news causes a state of euphoria, which, however, is quickly replaced by anxiety: what to do next? How to behave in a new status, should I go to the doctor, when and where to register for pregnancy, what tests and examinations should I undergo? Do I need to collect any documents for maternity leave, how long do I need to work, what is a birth certificate, when and how to choose a maternity hospital, whether to conclude a contract? In general, you need a clear guide to further actions, so to speak, step-by-step instructions for pregnancy. It is this instruction that we have decided to bring to your attention.

Visit to the gynecologist and the first ultrasound.

You need to go to the doctor's office without delay as soon as you find out about the onset of pregnancy. The first appointment with a gynecologist will include an external examination, examination on a gynecological chair, ultrasound and a blood test for hCG.

According to the results of this express examination, the doctor will be able to accurately confirm the fact of the onset of pregnancy (or refute it, because the tests are sometimes “mistaken”), determine the term and exclude the ectopic localization of the embryo. In addition, at the first appointment you will receive information about further medical measures: visits to other doctors - this may be necessary in the presence of chronic diseases - additional tests, the date of the next visit to the gynecologist and ultrasound.

We correct the lifestyle

Now it is necessary to revise the daily routine, work schedule and physical activity. The first weeks of pregnancy are a critical period in the development of the fetus: any overload, stress and illness of the expectant mother during this period can adversely affect the health of the baby and the course of pregnancy. Night walks, clubs and noisy parties will have to be postponed until better times. In the first weeks of pregnancy, you should try to be less in crowded places in order to avoid the risk of infection and injury. Try to get enough rest, sleep and walk in the fresh air.

It is necessary to immediately refuse overtime work, business trips; if possible, move the start and end times of the working day to avoid crowds in transport during rush hour. You have every right to all these pleasant changes in the work schedule in accordance with labor legislation.

In the first weeks, it is worth temporarily abandoning sports; later, in the normal course of pregnancy, it will be possible to return to sports - of course, adjusted for the “interesting situation”.

It is useful for a newly-made expectant mother to walk and swim; but cycling, running, skating and skiing should be abandoned as soon as pregnancy becomes known. Try not to make sudden movements and not to lift weights: the maximum recommended weight is 3 kg, evenly distributed in both hands.

You should also adjust your diet: it is important for a pregnant woman to eat right. It is necessary to abandon canned food, synthetic drinks and products with artificial food additives, do not abuse spicy, fatty and fried foods.

We take vitamins

From the first days of pregnancy, expectant mothers are recommended to take folic acid - vitamin B9. This vitamin provides the necessary rate of growth and development of the baby in the early stages, is the main means of preventing non-developing pregnancy and the formation of malformations of the nervous system and heart of the fetus. In addition, folic acid provides better absorption of iron, which is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin. The recommended daily dose of vitamin B9 tablets is 800 mcg.

Another "vitamin of the first days of pregnancy" - E; it is necessary for the body of the expectant mother to synthesize the main hormone of pregnancy - progesterone, which ensures normal tone and blood supply to the uterus.

Second ultrasound

The second time ultrasound is performed for a period of 8-12 weeks. The purpose of the study: to confirm the prolongation - the successful course and development of pregnancy, to determine the compliance of the size and development of the fetus with the expected gestational age, to exclude the formation of malformations. According to the results of the second ultrasound, the expectant mother is recommended to start regular visits to the gynecologist to monitor the course of pregnancy.

Pregnancy record

It is advisable to start systematic medical monitoring of the development of pregnancy for a period not later than 12 weeks; it is better to register early - simultaneously with the second ultrasound examination.
Early registration for pregnancy and the beginning of regular medical supervision can significantly reduce the risk of exacerbations of chronic diseases and pregnancy complications. Women registered no later than 12 weeks are paid a one-time allowance in the amount of half the minimum wage upon maternity leave. When registering at the antenatal clinic, the expectant mother should present a passport, a compulsory medical insurance policy and the results of medical examinations for the last year, including the conclusion of the first ultrasound and test data. In the future, the expectant mother is recommended to visit the doctor at least 12 times during pregnancy. For periods up to 28 weeks, it is worth going to the doctor at least 1 time per month, from 28 to 37 weeks - at least 2 times a month, and starting from 38 weeks - every 7-10 days. If there are special indications, for example, if additional examinations are necessary based on the results of tests or health reasons, the doctor may recommend unscheduled visits at any of the listed dates.

We hand over analyzes

A referral for the necessary laboratory tests is issued by the doctor at the first visit, i.e. when registering for pregnancy. The standard set of studies conducted at week 12 includes:

  • clinical (general) blood test;
  • general urine analysis;
  • blood chemistry;
  • coagulogram - a blood test for clotting;
  • determination of the group and Rh-affiliation of blood;
  • blood test for HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis;
  • a study for the presence of torch infections: rubella, toxoplasmosis, coxsackie, herpes, cytomegalovirus, papillomavirus, chlamydia, urea- and mycoplasmosis, gardnerellosis. These diseases are hidden and can pathologically affect the development of the fetus;
  • smear of flora from the vagina;
  • at the discretion of the doctor, a screening examination for congenital diseases - a blood test for alpha-fetoprotein and hCG may be recommended.

Despite the frightening size of the list, all tests can be taken at one time - for this you need to know the days of blood sampling and the necessary preparations. For example, a biochemical blood test should be taken on an empty stomach, and on the eve of the study for RW (syphilis) you should not eat a lot of sweets: failure to follow these rules can lead to incorrect test results. In the presence of chronic diseases or as prescribed by other doctors, such as a general practitioner or endocrinologist, the list may expand. In the future, many tests will have to be retaken: for example, urinalysis - at each visit to the gynecologist; complete blood count - at least twice per trimester; analysis for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis - once in the second and third trimester; a smear for flora - at least once per trimester. Repeated studies for the same infections are necessary, since theoretically the expectant mother can get sick during pregnancy.

Related specialists

Adjacent in obstetrics are called doctors of other specialties, the examination of which helps the gynecologist to choose the right tactics for managing pregnancy. To monitor the course of pregnancy, examinations by a general practitioner, endocrinologist, oculist, dentist and ENT are most relevant, however, if there are health problems, consultations of other doctors may be necessary, for example, a nephrologist - a specialist in kidney diseases, a neurologist, a phlebologist - a specialist in vein diseases - or a cardiologist . Bypassing related specialists should begin no later than 12 weeks and be completed by 16 weeks of pregnancy. As part of the examination, the therapist needs to do an electrocardiogram. If necessary, doctors can invite the expectant mother to an appointment again in the second and third trimester of pregnancy or prescribe additional diagnostic tests.

Screening study

At 16-18 weeks of pregnancy, the expectant mother is recommended to undergo the so-called "triple test", which allows to identify a risk group for the formation of fetal malformations. For this, a pregnant woman's venous blood is examined for the amount of alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin and estriol. A change in the amount of these substances produced by the tissues of the fetus and placenta may indicate the presence of a serious anomaly in the development of the fetus, such as Down's syndrome. If the test results are positive, the expectant mother is sent for genetic counseling.

Third ultrasound

The next ultrasound examination is recommended for a period of 18–20 weeks; by this time, the formation of the placenta is completed, as well as the laying of the main organs and systems of the fetus. Sonography at this time allows you to assess the degree of development of the cardiovascular, nervous and urinary systems of the fetus, the correspondence of the development and size of the baby to the gestational age, determine the placenta attachment and the level of blood flow in its vessels, evaluate the structure of the placenta and umbilical cord. The third ultrasound is included in the recommended scope of screening studies for the detection of genetic abnormalities and fetal malformations.

Physical exercise

After the 20th week of pregnancy, when the main “critical” periods have already passed, it is worth discussing with the doctor the possibility of sports being allowed at this time. Recall that active expectant mothers who went in for sports before pregnancy should discuss the correction of habitual physical activity at the first visit to the gynecologist. If the pregnancy proceeds without complications, dosed physical activity is not only allowed, but also strongly recommended: good muscle tone and elasticity of the ligamentous apparatus make it easier to endure weight gain during pregnancy and the discomfort of labor pains. It is better to give preference to stretching exercises, such as yoga for pregnant women, Pilates and body flex. Pregnant women can go in for swimming, special aqua aerobics for expectant mothers and even belly dancing. A necessary condition is the complete exclusion of sudden movements, the load on the press and lifting weights; all of these exercises are best performed under the supervision of a trainer who is competent in selecting loads for pregnant women. In the absence of special recommendations from a doctor, you can engage in "permitted" sports for 40-60 minutes 2-3 times a week until the very birth.

Exchange card

This document can be considered a “pregnancy passport”: it contains all the necessary medical information about the health of the expectant mother, the features of this and previous pregnancies, the results of tests and examinations, the drugs received and the conclusions of specialists.

"Exchange" consists of three parts; the first is filled in by the doctor in the consultation, the second by the obstetrician-gynecologist who delivered the baby, the third by the neonatologist who observed the baby in the maternity hospital after birth. With the help of this important document, continuity in the transfer of information about the health of mother and baby between the antenatal clinic, the maternity hospital and the children's clinic is carried out. According to Order No. 30 of February 10, 2003, the exchange card is issued to the expectant mother by the attending physician of the antenatal clinic no later than the 23rd week of pregnancy. From the moment of receipt, the "pregnancy passport" must always be in the purse of the expectant mother, along with a general passport and a compulsory medical insurance policy: they may be needed in case of unforeseen emergency hospitalization.

Courses for future parents

The choice of courses should be decided by the 25th week of pregnancy: the most complete and interesting cycles of lectures are calculated on average for two months of visits in the mode of 1-2 classes per week. You can start attending courses earlier: most of the topics will be informative and relevant even in the first weeks of pregnancy, and many classes include useful physical exercises in addition to lectures. Courses are needed for the correct psychological attitude for childbirth, the acquisition of skills for self-pain relief of contractions, which include postures, massage, relaxation and breathing techniques, and caring for a newborn.

A standard set of lectures usually includes topics on the features of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, fetal development, the main aspects of medical care for a pregnant woman, a woman in labor, a puerperal woman and a newborn in the maternity hospital, breastfeeding, complementary feeding, the development of a child in the first year of life, an overview of maternity hospitals in your city. In most courses, in addition to lectures, practical classes are held - obstetric gymnastics and childbirth training, where they work out the technique of anesthesia. Classes for expectant parents are best attended with a partner. Such courses can be found at the antenatal clinic or maternity hospital; there are also independent commercial clubs for future parents. When choosing courses, pay attention to the qualifications of teachers (usually lectures are given by medical specialists and psychologists), gymnastics trainers, the convenience of the location of the courses and the time of classes, the opportunity to attend lectures with your husband and choose individual topics of interest to you.

Maternity leave

A disability certificate for pregnancy and childbirth is issued by an obstetrician-gynecologist who monitors the course of pregnancy for the following periods:

with a normal pregnancy - from the 30th week for 140 calendar days (70 days before delivery and 70 days after delivery);
in case of multiple pregnancy - from 28 weeks to 180 calendar days;
in case of complicated childbirth, postpartum leave is increased by 16 calendar days and the total duration of the decree is 156 (70 + 16 + 70) calendar days.

birth certificate

Making maternity leave at 30 weeks of pregnancy, the expectant mother can receive another important document. This is a birth certificate intended for additional payment for the services of doctors at the antenatal clinic, maternity hospital and children's clinic from the federal budget. The birth certificate project started on January 1, 2006; its goal is to improve the quality of medical care for expectant mothers and babies in public medical institutions.

The certificate consists of three coupons: the first goes to pay for the services of a antenatal clinic, the second - a maternity hospital and the third - medical care in a children's clinic. In the consultation, the certificate is handed out at 30 weeks, subject to registration no later than 12 weeks and visits to one doctor of the antenatal clinic at least 12 times during pregnancy; by agreeing to take the certificate, the expectant mother shows that she is satisfied with the medical care received. In case of irregular observation, late registration, medical care on a commercial basis, or in case of dissatisfaction with the pregnant woman with the level of medical services provided, a birth certificate is not issued at the consultation. In this case, the expectant mother will receive a birth certificate already at the maternity hospital. It should be emphasized that a birth certificate is not a mandatory document for planned or emergency hospitalization in a maternity hospital, regardless of which maternity hospital is chosen and under what insurance conditions - under the compulsory medical insurance policy or on a paid basis - the expectant mother will be served.

Fourth ultrasound

The last ultrasound recommended during normal pregnancy is after 32 weeks. By this time, the fetus has already formed, occupies a stable position in the uterus, and the doctor, based on the results of the study, can evaluate its physical development, location, presentation, estimated size by the end of pregnancy, the amount of water, the state of the placenta, blood flow in the vessels of the placenta, umbilical cord and uterine arteries. These data allow you to draw up a proposed plan for childbirth, determine the degree of risks and the need for additional medical training.

Cardiotocography

This study is advisable to conduct after the 32-34th week of pregnancy. The method allows you to assess the well-being of the fetus in terms of frequency and variability, i.e. changes in his heart rate. To do this, within 20-40 minutes, the baby's heart rate is taken using an ultrasonic sensor and recorded on a paper tape in the form of a graph. In addition, the CTG chart shows moments of baby movements and an increase in uterine tone. By changes in the pulse, the frequency of fetal movements and increases in myometrial tone, it is possible to assess the risk of developing fetal hypoxia and premature onset of labor.

Choosing a maternity hospital

This important process should be started no later than the 34-36th week of pregnancy. When choosing, one should take into account such criteria as the remoteness of the maternity hospital, the dates of preventive treatments (“washes”), the technical equipment of the maternity hospital, the level of comfort of the delivery wards, if necessary, the presence of a special medical specialization, the ability to choose a doctor and individual management of childbirth, the presence of a partner during childbirth, joint stay of mother and baby in the postpartum ward.

Getting to know the nursery

Having previously decided on the choice of the maternity hospital, after the 36th week it is worth going to it personally and “look around”. It is better to study the route options to the maternity hospital in advance, see where the entrance to the admission department is located, familiarize yourself with the admission rules for admission to antenatal hospitalization and childbirth, find out the time of visits, conversations with doctors and receiving programs. When planning an individual birth at 36 weeks, you can get acquainted with the doctor and conclude a contract for the birth.

Things and documents in the hospital

This must be done no later than the 38th week of pregnancy in order to take everything into account, double-check and not fuss at the very last moment. A list of things allowed for hospitalization in the antenatal, labor and postnatal departments can be requested from the information desk of the maternity hospital or from the insurance agent when concluding a contract for childbirth. The requirements for clothing and personal belongings that you can take with you can be very different in different maternity hospitals, so do not be too lazy to find out the rules in the chosen maternity hospital in advance. It is better to collect things separately for each compartment, packing them in plastic bags. Of the documents for hospitalization, you will need a passport, a compulsory medical insurance policy, an exchange card, a birth certificate and a contract for childbirth - if any; it is better to make photocopies of these documents in advance for the admission department of the maternity hospital. You can immediately take a package with things and documents for childbirth with you, but bags with things for the postpartum department can be transferred to the maternity hospital only after the baby is born, so it is better to sign them in advance and provide instructions for relatives.

Can hair be dyed? Is a hot bath bad? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Falls during pregnancy - should I go to the doctor?

It's easy to get scared if you fall during pregnancy, but your body is designed to protect your unborn baby. The injury must be severe enough for you to harm the child. The walls of the uterus are strong strong muscles that ensure the safety of the child. The amniotic fluid acts as a cushion. In addition, in the early stages of pregnancy, the uterus is blocked by the pelvic bone, which also serves as additional protection. Even if you fell, don't worry, your child most likely didn't have a problem.

After 24 weeks, a direct blow to the abdomen can cause complications, so you need to see a doctor.

If you are concerned about your child's condition after a fall, see a doctor. You need to contact us immediately if:

  • As a result of the fall, pain, bleeding, or a severely bruised abdomen appeared.
  • The waters began to recede.
  • There is severe pain or tension in the abdomen, uterus, and pelvic area.
  • The fights started.
  • Fetal movement is not felt.

In most cases, the child is fine. But to make sure of this, the doctor may prescribe some examinations.

Flu shot during pregnancy - is it worth it?

Yes, the flu shot is safe during pregnancy. Vaccinations are recommended for all pregnant women during the flu season - usually from November to March - unless you are allergic to egg white or had complications from previous vaccinations.

Pregnancy puts extra strain on the heart and lungs. It can also affect the immune system. This increases not only the risk of getting the flu, but also getting serious complications, such as pneumonia. Vaccination can prevent these troubles.

If you are getting a flu shot, ask for the flu shot, not the spray vaccine. For vaccination, an inactivated virus is used, which is safe for both the mother and the fetus at any stage of pregnancy. For spray, the vaccine is made from a live virus, and it is better not to use it during pregnancy. Both the vaccine and the spray vaccine can be used before pregnancy, but you have to wait a few weeks after the spray to conceive.

Vaccines for other types of influenza differ, but are generally considered acceptable for pregnant women. The risk of complications from swine flu is higher during pregnancy, and a mother can provide protection even to a child who cannot be vaccinated. If you have any doubts about a vaccine, get all the information you can and talk to your doctor.

Are other vaccinations safe during pregnancy?

If you are going to travel or there is a risk of infection, the doctor may recommend other vaccinations: from hepatitis A and B, meningitis and some others.

During pregnancy, you should not be vaccinated with a live influenza vaccine, as well as against measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox and against the papillomavirus.

Cold during pregnancy: how to treat it correctly?

When you have a cold, you feel bad. In addition, with a common cold, pregnant women are advised only edema remedies, cough syrups and antihistamines. None of this is going to cure a cold, so here are a few tips to help you feel better while your body is fighting the virus:

  • Drink more fluids. Water, juice, tea, broth - that's what you need. They will compensate for the loss of fluid during a runny nose and high fever.
  • Give yourself a rest. Bustle overtaxes the body.
  • Monitor the temperature and humidity in the room. The room should be warm, but not hot. If the air is dry, use a humidifier to help relieve a runny nose and cough. But make sure your humidifier is clean to prevent bacteria and mold from growing in it.
  • Soften your throat. Gargle several times a day with warm salt water or drink warm water with lemon and honey to soothe a sore throat and ease a cough.
  • Use saline nasal drops. Such drops are sold without a prescription, they are effective, safe and do not irritate the mucous membrane.
  • For aches and heat, use safe products. Use antipyretics and pain relievers that are recognized as safe during pregnancy.
    If the symptoms are more severe and all the suggested measures do not help, consult a doctor.

Can acne creams be used during pregnancy?

Pregnancy acne is not a specific form of acne. It's just that many acne worsens during pregnancy. In most cases, the cause is increased production of sebum due to hormonal changes. The best way to deal with acne during pregnancy is to:

  • Washing twice a day. Use a mild cleanser and lukewarm water.
  • Daily shampooing. Make sure that the hair does not fall on the face.
  • Cosmetics without fat. Choose water-based and non-comedogenic.
  • Try not to touch your face with your hands. Fat and sweat from the skin, getting on the face, cause additional irritation.
  • Any medicine applied to the skin or taken orally will enter the bloodstream, so you need to be careful during pregnancy - even with over-the-counter drugs.
  • There is no consensus on the safety of many means, so it is better to consult a doctor every time.

Some acne medications should be avoided because they can cause birth defects. First of all, it is Accutane, Differin and some others. Be sure to consult your doctor!

Allergy during pregnancy: how to treat?

First of all, try to find out what is causing the allergic reaction, and if possible, avoid contact with it. Many of the common allergy medications - including antihistamines and decongestants - are not recommended during pregnancy. If you have a stuffy nose, a runny nose or other allergy symptoms, it is better to use the following methods:

  • Rinse your nose. Dissolve a quarter teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Pour the solution into a special bottle or into a large rubber bulb. Bend over the sink, tilt your head to the side. Insert the tip into the nostril that is on top, close the other with your finger. Click on the pear. The solution will flow through the nasal passages into the mouth. Spit and blow your nose. Repeat for the other nostril. Washing can be done several times a day.
  • Breathe in steam from a hot shower or humidifier. The humidifier must be clean so that there are no bacteria.
  • Massage the forehead and near the nose with your fingers. It can relieve nasal congestion.

Lactose intolerance during pregnancy - how to get enough calcium?

For many women, the ability to digest lactose improves during pregnancy, especially as it progresses. So even if you are lactose intolerant, you may be able to consume milk and dairy products when you become pregnant without any adverse effects.

For women over 19 years old, including pregnant women, the recommended daily dose of calcium is 1000 mg, for pregnant women under 19 years old - 1300 mg. These recommendations are difficult to follow if you do not drink milk and do not eat other dairy products - the best source of calcium.

If you are still lactose intolerant or do not like milk and dairy products, try the following:

  • Most people who are lactose intolerant can drink a cup of milk with a meal without any unpleasant consequences. If this seems like a lot to you, drink half a cup twice a day.
  • Eat lactose-reduced foods, including milk, cheese, and yogurt.
  • Yogurt and fermented foods such as cheese are better tolerated than plain milk. In yogurt, the lactose is already partially digested by the bacterial cultures of the yogurt.
  • Try lactase enzyme tablets to help digest lactose.
  • Choose from other calcium-rich foods: sardines, bone-in salmon, tofu, broccoli, spinach, and juices and other calcium-fortified foods.

Is it possible to dye and lighten hair during pregnancy?

When you use hair dye, a small amount of it may penetrate the skin. However, paint cannot harm a developing baby.

There are several studies on the effects of hair coloring before and during pregnancy. An association between hair coloring during pregnancy and certain childhood cancers has been suggested, but has not been confirmed. Most researchers consider the link between hair coloring during pregnancy and the development of brain tumors in children implausible.

If you decide to dye your hair during pregnancy, do it according to all the rules. Have someone else apply the paint and then help you wash your hair thoroughly. If you are afraid to dye your hair during pregnancy - do not do this or consult your doctor.

How safe are hot baths and saunas during pregnancy?

A bath will help you relax and relieve muscle tension without any harm to your health. But too hot a bath is dangerous, and saunas should also be avoided. 10 or more minutes in a hot bath will raise your body temperature and cause a condition called overheating. Some studies have found an increased risk of miscarriage and neural tube defects if women were exposed to high temperatures during the first 4-6 weeks of pregnancy. Exposure to heat at any time during pregnancy causes overheating and lowers blood pressure, which reduces the oxygen supply to the fetus and can make you dizzy.

If you still want to take a hot bath, take the following precautions:

  • Do not sit in the bath for more than 10 minutes.
  • Do not sit close to the hot water outlet.
  • Get out of the bath as soon as you start to sweat or feel at least some discomfort.

X-ray during pregnancy - how safe is it?

Oddly enough, x-rays during pregnancy are not considered dangerous. In many cases, the benefit outweighs the perceived risk. An abdominal x-ray during pregnancy exposes the fetus to radiation. If the radiation causes changes in the rapidly growing cells of the fetus, the child may be slightly more likely to have birth defects or later develop diseases like leukemia. However, it is believed that X-ray examination during pregnancy poses a very slight danger to the developing fetus. Most x-rays - hands, feet, head, teeth, chest - do not expose the reproductive organs and the fetus to radiation. A lead apron and collar can be worn to block scattered radiation.

If you need an X-ray, tell your doctor that you are pregnant. An ultrasound can be done instead of an x-ray. If your child needs an X-ray, do not keep them at this time if you are pregnant. Have someone replace you.

If you had x-rays before you found out you were pregnant, don't worry. Remember, the danger is negligible. It is unlikely that you received enough radiation to have problems. However, if you have been treated with radiation, such as for cancer, the risk can be significant. Possible consequences should be discussed with your doctor.

Are mobile phones, computers, microwave ovens dangerous?

These devices use a form of electromagnetic energy called radio frequency energy, which consists of electrical and magnetic waves moving through space. Radiation from such devices is of a different kind and much weaker than X-rays.

However, some researchers and environmentalists believe that if exposed to such radiation for a long time, for example, talking on a mobile phone for a very long time without a headset, you can get a dangerous level of RF exposure. There has been information about a link between constant cell phone conversations and certain types of tumors.
brain, but there is no reliable evidence for this.

There have also been speculations about the impact of frequent cell phone conversations during pregnancy on brain developmental disorders, and then behavioral abnormalities in the child. The relationship between living near a telephone tower and pregnancy problems has also been studied. But no evidence has been found for these assumptions. At the moment there are no grounds for alarm. If it still bothers you, use your mobile phone less often or use a hands-free headset.

Are airport scanners dangerous for pregnant women?

These scanners are of two types. One uses non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (millimeter waves), similar to those used for radio signals. This type of radiation, used for a hundred years, does not affect the state of health. Another type of scanner uses "reflected" ionizing radiation, exposing a person to very weak x-rays. The radiation of the scanner is so weak that X-rays do not penetrate the body.

Neither type of scanner is dangerous to the fetus. The risk for a woman, even with repeated transillumination, is negligible.

Are cleaning products dangerous?

Regular use of common household cleaners will not harm the developing fetus. It is better not to use stove cleaners: their fumes are not useful. Also, whether you're pregnant or not, don't mix baking soda and bleach, as this creates toxic fumes. When working with cleaners, try not to inhale the fumes. Wear protective gloves so that substances do not come into contact with the skin. Also, if possible, use vinegar and baking soda, which do not contain caustic toxic components.

Can repellents be used during pregnancy?

Insect repellent active ingredients are safe if the instructions for use are followed. They effectively protect against dangers such as West Nile or Lyme disease. It is clear that the danger of such diseases is immeasurably greater than the potential for the minimum amount of a substance to enter the bloodstream through the skin. For peace of mind, you can play it safe and go out less where there is a need to use repellents, especially in the first.

Is paint fumes harmful?

Try not to deal with oil paints, as well as those based on lead and mercury. This is usually old paint that you might happen to scrape off. Do not work with solvents. Even if you are painting some small surface, be careful. Work in a well-ventilated area, wear protective clothing and gloves. Do not eat or drink where you paint. Also be careful if you use a ladder. The shape of the body has changed, and this could upset the sense of balance

Why is cat litter dangerous during pregnancy?

To avoid infection during pregnancy, ask another family member to handle the cat litter. If you do have to do this, wear rubber gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Wear gloves in the garden too.

Is it true that teeth deteriorate during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the condition of the teeth is not the very first problem, but it is very important. There is a huge amount of false information and prejudices on this topic, but practically no useful advice is given. Common dental problems during pregnancy include:

  • Destruction of teeth. Increased acidity in the mouth increases the risk of tooth decay. Vomiting can further exacerbate the problem, as the teeth are exposed to acid from the stomach.
  • Loosening of teeth. Elevated levels of progesterone and estrogen affect the bones and ligaments that support the teeth, and they can become loose.
  • Gum disease. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause gingivitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue. In severe cases, untreated inflammation can lead to preterm labor and low birth weight.

So how do you keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy? Use the easiest way. Brush your teeth regularly and thoroughly. Use rinses containing fluoride. If you feel sick in the morning, after vomiting, rinse your mouth with a solution of baking soda 1 teaspoon in a glass of water.

Can I visit water parks and attractions during pregnancy?

There is no consensus on this. Therefore, it is better to consult a doctor first. Studies show that a sudden stop - such as a car collision - can cause injury, which during pregnancy can cause placental abruption - a serious complication of pregnancy. Such an injury can also be received on the attraction.

Many amusement parks have pregnancy restrictions. Before you go there, find out this point.

Another note: maybe during pregnancy it is better to just sit by the pool, and not fly from the water slides?

The first pregnancy is a special event in the life of every woman. At this time, expectant mothers are intensely looking for information about what they have to go through over the next nine months. Lack of experience sometimes leads to the fact that pregnant women rush from one extreme to another, not knowing how to behave correctly during this crucial period. What should a woman who is preparing to become a mother know?

Features of the course of the first pregnancy

In most cases, the expectant mother learns about her situation by delaying menstruation. The test shows the coveted two strips, and now the pregnant woman is enthusiastically making plans for the near future. While waiting for a baby, every minute is valuable, and this period is a chance to take a fresh look at your life and reconsider your priorities. The most important thing is now happening inside - a new life is born there. What awaits a woman from the moment of conception to the very birth?

Soon after the delay of menstruation, the expectant mother will feel how her body is preparing for global changes. In the first 6-8 weeks, most pregnant women experience such a phenomenon as toxicosis. Do not be afraid of nausea and vomiting in the morning - this is how the body gradually gets used to new conditions for itself. At the same time, the chest increases, drowsiness and general weakness appear. All these changes appear gradually, clearly signaling to a woman about her new and very pleasant status.

As the baby grows, the belly will gradually increase. Already in the fourth month of pregnancy, a woman will notice that her old clothes have become cramped. Expecting a baby is a great opportunity to update your wardrobe. At the same time, it is important to choose not only beautiful, but also comfortable loose-fitting clothes that will not put pressure on a growing tummy. Don't forget about low-heeled shoes. With an increase in the duration of pregnancy, the back muscles will experience more and more stress, and there is no need to further complicate your life by wearing high-heeled shoes.

During the first pregnancy, fetal movement is first felt at 18-20 weeks. At first, these will be light single kicks, but as the gestation period increases, the movements will become more intense. Thin women feel the baby move a week or two earlier than expectant mothers who are overweight.

Many women with the onset of their first pregnancy note that their mood is constantly changing. It is at this time that you can simply allow yourself to be natural - and remember that many quirks and whims are allowed to pregnant women.

What to do with the onset of the first pregnancy?

After the pharmacy test unambiguously confirmed the completed conception, you should definitely get an appointment with a gynecologist. At the first appearance, the doctor will carefully examine, measure blood pressure and issue directions for tests. It is very important for a specialist to know what is happening in a woman's body - this will give the doctor the opportunity to draw up an optimal plan for managing her pregnancy.

During the waiting period for the baby, you need to regularly visit your gynecologist. Up to 30 weeks, a visit to the doctor is carried out twice a month, then every week. If you have any complaints (abdominal pain, incomprehensible discharge, high blood pressure), you should visit the doctor outside the schedule. In emergency situations (bleeding from the genital tract, severe pain), doctors from specialized obstetric departments will come to the rescue.

When should a woman expecting her first child go to the maternity hospital? There is no single answer to this question. If the expectant mother feels well, her baby is actively moving, she can calmly wait for the start of contractions at home. In the presence of serious chronic diseases, with a complicated course of pregnancy, as well as any violations of the fetus, a woman should go to the hospital in advance to prepare for childbirth. Planned hospitalization of primiparous occurs at a period of 39-40 weeks.

Optimal age

People planning a pregnancy often ask themselves the question, at what age is it best to give birth to the first child? Experts say that the optimal time for the first pregnancy is the period from 20 to 25 years. At this age, a woman's body is already fully formed and ready to endure and give birth to a healthy child. At the same time, the expectant mother, as a rule, has not yet managed to get a bouquet of chronic diseases that significantly complicate the course of pregnancy.

The first birth after 30 years does not always go smoothly for a woman. At this age, the ligaments are already losing their elasticity, and the birth of a baby is accompanied by various anomalies of labor activity. Pregnancy often occurs against the background of preeclampsia and high blood pressure. However, pregnancy after 30 years has its advantages. At this age, women take the issue of raising children much more seriously and are ready to take responsibility not only for themselves, but also for the little man who will soon be born.

It happens that a woman only after 40 years decides to have a baby. In modern medicine, this age is considered late for the first pregnancy. After 40 years, the reproductive functions of the female body gradually fade away. It will be quite difficult to carry and give birth to a healthy child without additional hormonal support. In addition, after the age of 35, the likelihood of having children with genetic defects increases dramatically. The recovery period after childbirth is also increasing, which does not always go as easily as in younger mothers. A woman who decides to have a baby after 40 must carefully weigh the pros and cons and be fully aware of the consequences of her decision.

The first pregnancy is an event that will be remembered forever. Remember that the joy of meeting a baby cannot be compared with anything. This moment will overshadow all fears and anxieties and will be the best reward for all the long nine months of waiting.

In the very early stages of pregnancy, your unborn baby is just beginning to form, so this period is very important for the further course of the entire pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby. It is at the very beginning of pregnancy that there is a great risk of catching some kind of infection, which exposes the formation of the fetus to great danger. In addition, without knowing about their pregnancy, many women do not strive to lead a healthy lifestyle and expose the body to the harmful effects of alcohol, smoking and other bad habits, may experience heavy physical exertion or use drugs that are contraindicated during pregnancy. Therefore, it is not surprising that a woman wants to know about the signs of pregnancy in the early stages, and be able to determine it as quickly as possible in order to exclude possible threats to the fetus.

Often there is an increase in body temperature. This is a completely normal phenomenon that should not disturb a pregnant woman. Body temperature may be normal, but the basal temperature in pregnant women is always elevated and should not be lower than 37 ° C. Basal temperature is measured immediately after sleep by the rectal method. This must be done before you get up, otherwise the indicator may be incorrect.

Many women determine pregnancy in the early stages by signs such as nausea, enlargement and soreness of the mammary glands, dizziness, fatigue, and drowsiness. These signs do not always indicate pregnancy. The main sign that allows you to determine pregnancy in the early stages is an increase in the blood of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone begins to be produced in all pregnant women, and with each subsequent day its amount increases. The most accurate and early result for the presence of hCG will give a blood test. Pregnancy tests can also quite effectively detect pregnancy from the first day of a missed period.

Most women experience increased vaginal discharge. Slightly yellowish, odorless discharge is not dangerous and should not bother a pregnant woman. Also, the appearance of pinkish discharge on the first day of menstruation is considered the norm. The real danger is the presence of bleeding. This applies to both early pregnancy and later. Drawing pains in the lower abdomen, accompanying such secretions, may indicate an ectopic pregnancy in the early stages, as well as the danger of miscarriage. In this case, you should consult a doctor. Timely treatment will help to avoid serious consequences for the health of a woman in the event of an ectopic pregnancy and save the child in the event of a threatened abortion.

In general, in order for an early pregnancy to proceed normally, the following basic recommendations should be followed. During the first trimester, it is best to avoid taking any medications. This can lead to abortion or the development of defects in the fetus. Even medicinal herbs are contraindicated: lingonberry leaf, St. John's wort, tansy, etc. Any nervous tension or experience is highly undesirable for the development of the fetus and can also be the cause of a threatened abortion. You should stop taking alcohol, smoking, using drugs, coffee, malnutrition and malnutrition. Heavy physical activity, in particular lifting weights, falling, hard work, is also dangerous for pregnancy.