Planning For Working Mothers - Getting Pregnant And Dealing With Work

Getting pregnant while you have a busy professional life is something that requires you to give a lot of thought to your pregnancy. You will have to carefully plan changes in your personal as well as professional life. Pregnancy planning will enable you to cope with the changes better.

Issues to Face while Pregnant

Working women have mixed reactions to getting pregnant as they are faced with a lot of tough decisions. While they are happy about the life that they are creating they wonder what choices to make, to be a stay-at-home mom or be a working mom. If they decide to continue to work they have to contend with maternity leave issue, shortages of funds as maternity pay if available is available only for a period of 6 weeks, when to get back to work, who will take care of the baby, breast feeding the baby etc. Pregnancy planning stage is the time to make major decisions and discuss things with your partner. You may have to carefully estimate the costs and provide for them.

Hazards in the Workplace You Must Avoid

If you work in an environment that is hazardous to your health as well as your baby's be sure to consult your physician. Pregnant women should not come in contact with heavy metals, solvents, chemicals, radiation, disease causing agents [especially health care workers?], dry cleaning fluids, anesthesia etc. if you consult your physician before getting pregnant in the Pregnancy planning stage, you may change your job or consider an extended break from work.

Maternity Leave Benefits

Women who work can take maternity leave without fear thanks to the Family Medical Leave Act which mandates that businesses with more than 50 employees provide 12 weeks unpaid maternity leave without repercussions. Many working women make use of their vacation leave, sick leave to extend their maternity leave. But as each company may have unique rules it is better to study and understand your firm's policies on maternity leave before you talk about it to your seniors. Pregnancy planning stage will be ideal to determine how you will handle morning sickness and other discomforts that may be a part of your life after getting pregnant.

Preparing for Pregnancy in the Workplace

Talk to other female members in your firm and find out how the company dealt with them. If you plan carefully when it actually happens you are prepared and not caught off guard. You will need to eat healthy, so plan on having three nutritious meals a day with many healthy snacks in between such as salads and fruits. While you consider getting pregnant you may wonder when is the right time to tell your boss and colleagues you are pregnant. It is usually after the first trimester that women tell their bosses. Before you do be sure to be clear what you plan to do, to return if so exactly when you plan to get back to work, if not to be a stay-at-home mom. Pregnancy planning time can be used to sort out these issues so that you have no confusion or hesitation when the moment arrives for you to choose.

You may help the firm by planning to organize your work and help your replacement learn the ropes easily by being as co-operative as possible. Plan to write your plans and present them to your bosses and show them that you can be flexible to a certain extent.

Before getting pregnant it will be wise to review your financial situation and determine if you feel comfortable to rely on your partner to provide for you and the child. Pregnancy planning may help as you get the time to think about your future and opt for part time work that you may do from home ensuring that you are financially independent to a certain extent.

Organize Your House For Pregnancy - Getting Pregnant And Preparing Your Home For A Baby

Getting Pregnant and preparing your home for the baby can be a wonderful experience. It is better to get your house ready for your baby when you are in your second trimester as it will make life much less stressful during the later stages.

Preparing Your house For The Baby's Arrival

The house will need to be organized and ready as you may have not much time for such chores once the baby arrives. It will be better to find the right place for all items and to get into the habit of placing things in the place meant for them. This way the house may need little attention apart from the regular cleaning regime.

Pregnancy planning helps you get things ready without much ado. You will need to consider moving to a bigger place if you need more room. You may purchase a bassinet to ensure that the baby sleeps in your room during the initial stages. Once the baby is a bit older you may consider moving him to another room or share a room with the sibling if it is your second pregnancy.

The baby needs a crib that is comfortable and a soft firm mattress to sleep in. You may consider purchasing a diaper changing table that also has draws to hold the baby's cloths, diapers, blankets, powder, moisturizer, creams, jelly etc. the table has to be solid and wide enough for you to change the diaper comfortably. A soft blanket may be placed on top to make it comfortable for the baby too.

Babies grow at such speed that in no time they seem to be crawling all over the place. So it is never too soon to make your entire house baby safe. Ensure that all electrical outlets are covered. The time you have during pre pregnancy may be used to see to it that all sharp and hazardous objects are safely assigned a place that children cannot reach. Lock cupboards that hold your cleaning supplies and soaps. Consider baby gates that may help secure your home making it child safe. Making all these changes is one part of getting pregnant that you will not fail to enjoy. Another necessity is a car seat that is safe and secure. A stroller or a pram may be purchased too to ensure that you and the baby may go out for a refreshing walk.

Pre pregnancy planning helps you get ready for the changes as well as in organizing your house. You may buy a few baby clothes, blankets, diapers etc. to prepare in advance. While getting pregnant be certain that you have organized your house. The baby's room has to be clean, airy and quiet. Make sure that if you paint your house do so before you are pregnant as it is not advisable to expose yourself to paint fumes after getting pregnant.

A positive outlook will help during pregnancy so make sure that your house is clean, tidy and cheerful. If you feel you may not be up to cleaning the house during pregnancy you may consider hiring a part-time help or opt for a house cleaning service. It is recommended that healthy pregnant women stay active so it may help you if you did the work if your physician does not object. It can be a boon if your partner offers to help you with the chores and does his part to ensure that the house stays organized when you have little time to do it yourself.

Many people advise pregnant women to be surrounded by serene and happy pictures such as pictures of smiling babies as they help to create the right atmosphere, helping the women relax during stress. Getting pregnant is a wonderful phase, be sure you are well prepared and ready to enjoy that unforgettable experience. 

Things To Look Out For While Planning A Pregnancy

Planning a pregnancy has a lot of advantages as it gives you the time to ensure that an optimum environment is created enabling the child to grow up healthy.

Pregnancy planning will usually begin with a visit to a health care practitioner who may do a check up. This will alert the physician to any problems that may arise while getting pregnant or once you are pregnant. Women who are above 35 contemplating pregnancy may need extra care as there are chances that complications may arise such as congenital abnormalities in the infant.

Pre Pregnancy Health Issues To Be Wary Of

Most women are healthy and have healthy babies, but not all women are so lucky, some may have to deal with issues such as Anemia, hypertension and diabetes. If you plan on getting pregnant beware of pre pregnancy health issues such as Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Genital herpes, Chlamydia, HIV etc. Vaccinations against German measles, hepatitis b and tetanus may be required too. The physician may also be keen to know if you have any hereditary diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis, Hemophilia, Sickle Cell Disease, Tay - Sachs disease and Thallasaemia. Sexually transmitted infections and UTI are also harmful for mother and child.

What Changes In Lifestyle to Adopt

Several lifestyle changes have to be made while planning a pregnancy such as cessation of smoking, drinking, drug or substance abuse etc. as they increase the risk of miscarriages, low birth weight babies etc. Food and nutrition plays a very important role while planning a pregnancy. It is necessary to opt for well balanced, regular and nutritious meals that are rich in fiber, starch and vitamins. Green leafy vegetables, fruits, fortified cereals, dry fruits, nuts are recommended. It is not recommended to eat raw fish, shark, marlin or sword fish, undercooked meat and soft cheese or un-pasteurized milk. Physicians usually recommend folic acid, calcium and multi-vitamin supplements to ensure that the baby develops normally in the pre pregnancy stage. Morning sickness and swollen feet are common complaints, so ensure that you eat healthy and do the recommended exercise to stay healthy and fit.

Health Hazards to Stay Away From

While planning a pregnancy be sure that you do not expose yourself to hazards such as radiation, solvents, pint fumes, anesthesia, dry cleaning fluids, heavy metals etc. Do not stand for long periods or do strenuous exercise. Take regular breaks by walking around a bit and eating healthy snacks. Do maintain your weight so that you do not develop complications due to obesity.

Planning Ahead During Pregnancy

You have to make provisions for the rising costs by perhaps adhering to a budget as you may not get paid leave for delivering your baby. Start saving before planning a pregnancy as it will greatly reduce stress if you know that you are financially secure. Talk to your partner and decide if you will be a working mom or a stay-at-home mom. Look out for a reliable baby sitter/day care center if you plan to return to work. It will be easier if you purchased the necessary goods before the baby is born such as the crib, bassinet etc. to get your house in order as postponing it can lead to increased stress and worry as you may have little time left when the baby arrives.

Planning a pregnancy can be fun and an exciting event that you may share with your partner. Be calm, have a positive attitude, eat healthy and stay fit, trust in god and soon you will be holding that bundle of joy in your arms and will know that no matter what sacrifices you make, it was worthwhile, for nothing is more precious than the health and well being of the unique life that you created.

What Your Partner Can Do to Help You with Pre-Pregnancy Planning

It’s very important that you get your partner involved in pre-pregnancy planning. Not only do you truly need his help and support during this time, but his involvement at this early stage will help him to feel more connected to the pregnancy and the baby when it arrives. Additionally, the baby will benefit from his involvement in making lifestyle changes and preparations.

There are many ways that your partner can assist in pre-pregnancy planning. First of all, you must determine if you and your partner are healthy enough to have children and are both fertile. If you’re having problems with conception, you may need to consider other options for your baby. Additionally, you may want to consider other factors, such as Rh compatibility testing, which can be a determining factor in the genetic health of your baby.

Another thing that you’ll need to do to ensure the health of your baby involves lifestyle changes. This may include quitting smoking or rearranging the house to more “baby-safe” configuration. You may also have other changes to be made, such as stopping a hair loss medication that can prevent or complicate pregnancy. You can also get a good idea of what’s to come and how to handle that change in the pre-pregnancy stage. Read magazines and books that will help you learn what to expect and how to prepare for it.

Financial planning is another important part of pre-pregnancy planning, and should definitely be handled by a supportive partner. Financial changes and budgets will need to be altered to cover expenses for the new baby. Additionally, insurance and other financial needs will need to be accessed before you get pregnant. Financial matters can be stressful, and stress can often make pregnancy difficult. Therefore, it’s best if you have your partner’s full cooperation in this part of pre-pregnancy planning.

On a happier note, one of the really fun and exciting parts of pre-pregnancy planning is setting up for the baby. It’s never too early to start a college fund, build a crib or decorate a nursery. This can be a great project for both you and your partner – it will really help your partner become as excited about the pregnancy as you are. It will also give him a chance to have some input on the nursery and have some fun building and painting. You’ll also feel relieved to have this finished in plenty of time for the baby and you won’t be worn out from doing it all on your own.

Finally, your partner can be there to simply support you and help you maintain a healthy lifestyle for you and your baby. It can be easy for women to give in to their cravings during pregnancy, even if you know it’s not healthy food. The best way to avoid gaining too much weight or not getting enough nutrients is by planning your diet ahead of time. Your partner can help you by learning what’s best for you to eat, so that he can be there to make sure you get it while you’re pregnant.

The Importance Of Genetic Counseling - Genetic Counseling During Pregnancy

Genetic Counseling is sought by certain couples who consider it as part of pregnancy planning. During a genetic counseling session the family history plus personal medical history of the couple will be examined. The objective of a genetic counseling session is to diagnose, identify risk factors, and explain health risks if any and its effects to the couple making them understand the risk if any to their pregnancies. They may guide you to support groups to help you deal better with any condition that has been identified. This session during pre pregnancy planning will alert you to the possible disorders that you may pass on to your child. This will help you decide if you want to start a family and alert you to any possible problems that may affect the infant that you plan to have.

Some couples are referred for genetic counseling during the pre pregnancy stage to alert them about possible health issues due to exposure to teratogens such as harmful chemicals, heavy metals, radiations, drug, and alcohol/substance abuse. This may help alert them to any possible risks that may exist and prepare them to receive counseling on how to create an environment that is safe for the parents and child.

Some genetic screening tests that are performed during pregnancy are the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test to detect birth defects such as neural tube defect, spina bifida and anencephaly. Ultrasound tests can identify spina bifida, heart defects, and malformations of the head, face, body, and limbs. Amniocentesis is used to detect genetic and developmental disorders. Chorionic villus sampling helps detect down's syndrome etc.

Many couples are daunted by the costs, but there are many agencies that offer financial aid. The cost of genetic counseling varies ranging between $150 and $2000 but is usually within $100 and $300. Many health insurance policies cover the costs.

In the event that the tests [you can have them repeated elsewhere] are not too good, you always have the option of adopting a child. Not only will you get to be parents of a healthy baby, you will be giving the baby what it needs the most, a family who cares for it and who loves it.

A genetic counseling session need not be frightening, think about it in a positive way. You are in the process of creating the right environment for your child, make extra sure that the baby is healthy. 

When to Consider Genetic Counseling

•     If the age of the woman is more than 35 years
•     If the couple is closely related to each other
•     If they have a birth defect or disorder themselves such as cystic fibrosis
•     If they have a child who is mentally retarded
•     If they have a child who has been diagnosed with a genetic disorder
•     If they have a history of miscarriages or still born babies
•     If they have previous instances of SID
•     If they have exposure to hazardous teratogens
•     If they have infertility related problems
•     If they have a family history of any disease condition
•     If there is physical deformity in a parent
•     If the family has early onset of diseases such as heart disorders, Alzheimer's, etc.
•     If they have a history of epilepsy
•     If they have infections during pregnancy

If the counselor feels it is necessary certain tests such as carrier tests and screening tests may be performed. In carrier test the parents are tested for conditions such as Thalassemia which is a blood disorder primarily affecting those of the Mediterranean, African and Southern Asian descent; Cystic fibrosis which is a disease of the lungs and digestive system that is common in Caucasians; Sickle cell disease which is a blood disorder that mainly affects African-Americans; and Tay-Sachs disease which causes fatal brain damage and is more common in people of Eastern European Jewish ancestry. Conditions such as Huntington's disease and hemophilia too can be identified. Screening tests will eliminate the need to perform intrusive diagnostic tests during pregnancy.

Your Pregnancy Planning Checklist

The time to start planning for your pregnancy is months before you conceive. To give your baby the best start in life, you want to be as healthy as you can be before you conceive. The following are some of the things you should consider before you begin trying to get pregnant.

First of all, you need to be properly nourished and at a healthy weight. For some women, this many mean gaining or losing a few pounds. Even if you’re at a healthy weight, it may mean making healthier choices and avoiding empty calories. You should also start taking a prenatal vitamin at least one month before you plan to start trying to conceive.

You should plan to have a full checkup with your doctor before you begin trying to conceive. Any preexisting conditions, such as high blood pressure, hyper- or hypothyroidism, or diabetes, should be in control before you conceive. If you’re taking any other prescription medications, talk with your doctor about whether they’re safe to continue during pregnancy or if you’ll need to change medications. Normal well woman care, such as a pap smear and mammogram, should also be completed before you become pregnant. 

In addition, if your immunizations aren’t up to date, you should take booster shots before you become pregnant. Talk to your doctor about any immunizations you might not have had, such as Hepatitis B or cytomegalovirus and see if your doctor thinks those things would be beneficial for you.

Plan to see your dentist before you conceive as well and have any necessary dental work completed. Pregnancy can make your gums sensitive, so you’ll want to avoid having dental work done while pregnant if you can. Be sure to have your teeth cleaned according to your regular recommended schedule.

Next up, you’ll need to choose a health care provider to oversee your pregnancy. Many women continue with the same care provider they used for gynecology, although some women prefer to choose a different obstetrician. Other women find that they need a specialized obstetrician or even a perinatologist to care for them during their pregnancy. It’s a good idea to choose your care provider before you become pregnant, if you can. This gives you plenty of time to interview potential care providers and find the one who best meets your needs. 

Also, before you begin having unprotected sexual intercourse, you and your partner should also be checked for any sexually transmitted diseases. If your partner smokes or has other health habits that will be detrimental to you and any potential child, those habits should be discontinued as soon as possible.

If you smoke, quit. You may want to use nicotine replacement therapy to help you quit. In addition, if you drink, you should stop this as well. Even if you only drink socially, it’s a good idea to stop drinking before you begin trying to conceive. This way, you’ll never have to wonder if you had that drink before or after you were pregnant. The same advice goes for using over the counter medications. Talk with your doctor about what’s safe for use during pregnancy and only use those medications as necessary once you begin trying to conceive.

With a little preparation, your pregnancy can begin and proceed smoothly, leaving you free from worries about your health or behaviors in the days leading up to your pregnancy. 

Dangers of Unplanned Pregnancies – The Consequences You Need to Know About

When a pregnancy takes you by surprise, it can take you a while to sort out how you feel about the situation. You may be happily surprised or quite saddened by this turn of events. However you react to the pregnancy and however you ultimately feel about it, there are certain dangers you need to be aware of.

First of all, a great deal of your baby’s development takes place in the early weeks of pregnancy, particularly the development of the neural tube – the foundation for the baby's nervous system. There are a group of serious birth defects of the neural tube that can be prevented if the mother-to-be has adequate levels of folic acid – a member of the B complex of vitamins – in her system at the time of conception. A woman who isn’t planning to conceive may not be consuming adequate amounts of this important nutrient – by the time she discovers she’s pregnant, the baby could have already developed a birth defect. 

In much the same way, women who aren’t planning to become pregnant may have other lifestyle habits that could affect the health of a developing baby. This includes smoking, drinking alcohol, taking prescription or illegal drugs, and having unprotected sex. Women who smoke are more likely to have babies who are underweight, which can lead to a variety of problems for the baby. In addition, women who drink alcohol can have babies born with fetal alcohol syndrome, which can lead to lifelong consequences for the baby. Prescription or illegal drugs can also affect the baby’s development. Finally, having unprotected sex can lead to sexually transmitted diseases which can be passed on to the baby.

In addition, women who aren't planning to become pregnant may have chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma or high blood pressure, that aren’t being properly controlled. All of these conditions can affect the mother's health and the health of her baby if left untreated. In these cases, proper control is essential for a good outcome. It’s best to have any chronic conditions under control before conception.

For example, in the case of asthma, a mother who’s unable to breathe well can’t provide the necessary oxygen to her baby. Or, a woman who has diabetes and doesn’t control her blood sugar levels may have a baby that suffers from high blood sugar levels and macrosomia. Uncontrolled high blood pressure in pregnancy can also lead to pre-eclampsia, a serious condition for both mother and her baby – one that can become fatal if it develops into eclampsia. 

There are also the financial consequences of an unplanned pregnancy to take into consideration. If a pregnancy is unplanned, the mother-to-be or father-to-be may not have health insurance that will cover the pregnancy and baby. There could also be issues with work or school that could impact the family's financial status. For example, pregnant teens are less likely to finish high school or obtain a GED, which makes it more difficult for them to get a good paying job. Pregnant women also need to consider whether or not they’ll have the necessary financial support while they’re on maternity leave.

If you aren’t prepared to deal with these consequences, you aren’t ready to have children. Use protection during every instance of sexual intercourse until your situation changes. 

Weight Planning - Managing The Pregnancy Weight Gain

Pregnancy weight needs careful attention as it influences the health of the mother as well as that of the child. It is a proven fact that the weight of a woman has a significant impact on her chances to get pregnant. Underweight as well as overweight women have fewer chances for pregnancy as the fertility of a woman is influenced by her weight.

Underweight women run the risk of delivering smaller babies as well as pre-term babies. Low birth weight babies have a higher rate of mortality than normal babies. These babies have a higher chance for developmental disorders and suffer ill health frequently. Overweight women run the risk of developing complications such as diabetes, hypertension, hemorrhage, difficult labor, varicose veins, backache, extreme tiredness, and have an increased chance for neural tube defect in the fetus.
Weight And Pregnancy

Pregnancy planning stage will be the ideal time to get yourself in shape ensuring that you are neither too thin nor obese. A woman with normal weight has better chances for conception as well as developing healthy babies. Losing weight during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby, so ensure that with the right diet and exercise you have the right weight for your height during pre pregnancy phase.

Different Weights to Put On During Pregnancy

Pregnancy weight is something that many women are worried about. It is normal for a woman [body mass index between 20 and 27] to gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy. The average woman gains around 4 to 6 pounds during the first trimester and then around a pound each week. If a woman gains more than 5 pounds in a week it is necessary to consult your physician immediately as it may be a sign of pre-eclampsia. Similarly no weight gain over a period of 2 weeks or more during the second and third trimester needs to be monitored. Under weight women whose body mass index is below 20, may gain between 28 and 40 pounds. If the woman is overweight with a body mass index above 27 she can gain between 15 and 25 pounds. If you are obese with a body mass index more than 29 you may gain 15 pounds during pregnancy. A normal weight woman may gain 35 to 45 pounds in the case of twin pregnancy. Pregnancy weight gain is a healthy process that you need not worry about, as with proper exercise and adhering to a nutritious diet you may lose it in no time after delivery.

The baby usually weighs around 7 to 7.5 pounds; amniotic fluid makes up 2 pounds, as does the placenta, 4 pounds of fluids, 2 pounds of extra breast tissue, uterine tissue and blood, and about 7 pounds of fat. Thus you may start losing within the first few weeks after delivery and if you do regular exercise and breastfeed your child it may get easier to manage your pregnancy weight and get back your normal weight.

Meals to Control Your Weight Gain

It is therefore important to eat nutritious and balanced meals that help to maintain your weight gain during pregnancy. Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, foods rich in iron, folic acid, calcium, vitamin b etc. Doctors usually recommend supplements of folic acid and multi-vitamins to ensure the healthy development of the baby. Do not eat junk food catering to your taste but choose foods wisely, foods that are nourishing and satisfying. Be sure to watch out for the list of foods that you have to avoid such as undercooked meat and eggs, soft cheese, raw fish etc.

The rate at which women gain their pregnancy weight varies among different women, so do not worry unless it is extreme, either too much too soon or too less for a longer period of time. Visit the physician regularly and monitor your pregnancy weight as well as health.

Health Issues - Things To Be Wary Of During Pre Pregnancy Planning

Pre pregnancy planning is recommended as some women may have certain health issues to contend with. The women are so busy with their careers that by the time they decide to have a child they may have to deal with complications that may affect expectant women, especially those who are above the age of 35 years. The common health issues that women may have to deal with are numerous.

Older women above the age of 35 are warned about the incidence of congenital abnormalities in infants. Neural tube defect, spinal bifida etc. are also possible defects that the infant may suffer from. The mothers have to be fit as they may be prone to pre existing disease conditions such as hypertension and diabetes which may be dangerous if not monitored carefully.

Health Issues To Consider During Pre Pregnancy Planning

•     Hypertension: this condition is fairly common in older women who opt to get pregnant as well as in twin pregnancies. Pre pregnancy planning can help you stay fit through regular exercise which can control hypertension to a certain extent. This pregnancy has a lot of risks such as pre eclampsia, separation of the placenta, fetal death due to placental insufficiency. Thus frequent visits to the doctor and careful monitoring is required of every aspect such as food, weight, condition of the body etc. you may have to ask the physician to prescribe medication for hypertension that will not have a harmful effect on the developing fetus.
•     Diabetes: some women may already have diabetes during the pre pregnancy planning stage, some may contract gestational diabetes. Severe diabetes may cause birth defects of the heart and spinal canal as well as fetal death in some cases. The children are also susceptible to metabolic problems after birth. Careful monitoring of the weight and the disease as well as diet and the foods included is required for pregnancy planning of those who are at risk from diabetes.
•     Fertility Problems: male infertility or female infertility may be cause of concern in some cases. Treatments are available such as drugs, surgeries and herbal cures. To be safe during the pre pregnancy planning stage, make use of the ovulation calendar to chart the fertile period. A women's most fertile period is the 14th day after periods. Having sex before ovulation and after ovulation may help.
• Diseases Of The Heart: valve defects, hole in the heart, rheumatic and atherosclerotic heart disease are some things that some women have to deal with during pre pregnancy. Their condition will be completely assessed by a physician to determine if it is safe for them to have a baby. Complications such as miscarriage, fetal death, pre term labor may arise. The mothers may be advised bed rest and carefull monitoring to ensure that both mother and child continue to remain healthy.
•     Other Diseases: There are some women who have kidney problems, thyroid problems, cancer, tuberculosis etc to deal with during the pre pregnancy planning stage. They may be required to undergo a check up to ensure that it is safe for them to get pregnant or be told when it can be considered safe for them to try and get pregnant.
•     Genetic Disorders: Thalassemia, Cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, Sickle cell disease, Huntington's disease and hemophilia are among the most common genetic disorders.
•     Exposure To Teratogens: certain substances are harmful for a mother-to-be such as exposure to heavy metals, solvents, radiation, dry cleaning fluids etc. and are to be avoided
•     Urinary Tract Infections And STD: these conditions require treatment before pregnancy can be planned.
•     Lifestyles: alcohol, drug, substance abuse, smoking, are harmful and women are asked to stay away from them in the pre pregnancy planning stage.

Stay aware of these health issues during pre pregnancy planning stage and follow a healthy lifestyle.

Pregnancy Planning For Older Moms - Pregnancy Planning For Older Women And The Risk Associated

Pregnancy planning for older women seems to be the current trend as the number of mothers above the age of 35 seems to be ever increasing. More and more women are getting pregnant in their thirties, forties, fifties etc. due to the improvements in health care and medical advancements and changes in the social set up. Though an increase in the age of the mother increases risk factors, more women are getting pregnant above 35 years of age and giving birth to healthy babies.

It is a fact that older women have delays in pregnancy as there is a decrease in fertility as the women ages. This is because they ovulate less frequently and the chances of problems such as endometriosis increases with age. Though infertility may be a common problem in older women, most of them are easily treated and corrected. Older women who are considering pregnancy planning have to visit their physician to ensure that they are not suffering from some of the common conditions in their age group such as hypertension and diabetes. Pregnancy planning for older women makes it necessary to monitor them regularly as well as pay special attention to their lifestyle and food habits. They may need to take appropriate medication that the doctor prescribes as safe during pregnancy.

Older Woman pregnancy planning requires careful supervision by the healthcare practitioner as well as the couple who may have to act as per the advice of their physician. With proper treatment and careful monitoring such older women may also enjoy a healthy pregnancy as well as give birth to healthy babies. The fathers have to lead a healthy lifestyle too and be supportive as the mothers may require extra care and attention.

Such complications may be avoided if proper techniques of pregnancy planning for older women are adopted.

The question that many ask is when is the best time to get pregnant? The best time is when your body is fit and healthy without any dangers of complications. This can be achieved by adopting a lifestyle that is conducive to the healthy growth and development of the baby. Couples may also read books to answer questions such as when's the best time to get pregnant.

Pre pregnancy stage is perfect to get your body into shape, making sure your weight is ideal and by abstaining from smoking, drinking, alcohol and drugs. Stay away from teratogens and eat a diet as per the recommendations of your physician.

Pregnancy planning for older women ensures that the health of the baby and the mother is secured by careful monitoring and medical care.

Risks That Older Moms Face

    Miscarriages are fairly common among older mothers than among much younger mothers. Women between ages 35 and 40 have a 20% chance of miscarriage whereas older women of 44 to 50 have nearly a 50% chance for miscarriage.

    Placental problems seem to increase with age. Placenta pervia is a condition in which part or all of the cervical opening is covered by the placenta. This may cause severe bleeding posing a threat to the life of both mother and child.

    Pregnancy occurring in the fallopian tubule is another complication that older mothers may have to deal with.

    Older women run the risk of having a child that may have congenital abnormalities such as down's syndrome. Tests such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling may eliminate the fears of such disorders during the later stages of their pregnancy.

    Increased chances of fetal distress and prolonged, difficult labor are other risk factors.

    The incidence of caesarian birth is higher too among older women.

    The older the woman the higher are her chances of having a twin pregnancy.

Folic Acid For Pre-Pregnancy Days - Why Doctors Recommend Folic Acid For Pre-Pregnancy

Folic acid for pre-pregnancy is recommended by nearly all physicians as necessary supplements to be included with the regular diet. This is because folic acid helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spine [neural tube defects]. Folic acid or folate is a b vitamin that is essential for the proper growth and development of the brain, spine and skull of the fetus. Folic acid also prevents heart defects, cleft lip and palate etc. Folic acid is necessary for blood and protein production as well as to ensure enzyme functioning. Folic acid is necessary for the proper formation of healthy blood cells and 400 mcg are recommended daily in the pre conception stage. 

The doctors recommend that the women consume folic acid 3 months prior to pregnancy and continue until the second trimester.

Foods that are rich in folic acid are green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, peas, French beans, legumes, citrus fruits and juices [oranges], peanuts, whole grains, white flour, enriched pasta and enriched cornmeal, berries, grapefruit, cantaloupe, banana, nuts and spinach. Bread and fortified breakfast cereals are also good sources of folic acid.

Women who have had a previous child with neural tube defect, women who suffer from epilepsy and those who have diabetes need to consult their physician before taking supplements of folic acid while they consider pregnancy planning. This is because they have a higher risk of NTD babies. NTD babies may have poorly developed brains and die soon after birth. Spina bifidia may cause permanent paralysis of the lower body, loss of bladder and bowel control in the new born baby. NTD usually develop within the first 30 days of conception, so it is essential that women adopt proper conception planning techniques. Women who have had a NTD baby and who take a higher dosage of Folic acid for pre-pregnancy and during the pregnancy reduce the chances of NTD by as much as 70%. Folic acid supplements have to be taken as food sources of folic acid are harder to absorb.

Importance Of A Well Balanced Diet

The diet and nutrition planning has to be given due attention during pre pregnancy care. Calcium supplements and multi-vitamin supplements are also recommended. Foods rich in calcium are milk and milk products, sardines or salmon, tofu, broccoli, spinach etc. Calcium is vital for formation of bone and teeth, muscle contraction and nerve functions. Iron supplements are needed too during pre pregnancy as it is needed for RBC production in the fetus as well as to prevent complication such as anemia during pregnancy. Lean red meat, spinach, fortified whole-grain breads and cereals, dry fruits, etc. are good sources of iron.

While planning to get pregnant be sure to consult your physician and take adequate supplements of Folic acid for pre-pregnancy. It is recommended to consult your physician and opt for a check up and follow his instructions in order to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Avoid junk foods, maintain your body weight by eating nutritious regular meals and do take the recommended nutritional supplements during pre pregnancy as well as during the course of your pregnancy.

Obese and older women have to take the recommended supplements folic acid for pre-pregnancy as their babies have a higher risk of developing neural tube defects. Most neural tube defects are detectable before birth. But if you take Folic acid for pre-pregnancy as well as during pregnancy you may greatly reduce the possibilities of birth defects. Eat healthy, exercise as per the guidance of the doctor, maintain an ideal body weight and abstain from smoking, drinking, drugs etc., avoid contact with hazardous substances at work or at home from the pregnancy planning stage to protect your health as well as that of your child. Do take folic acid for pre-pregnancy during pregnancy and give your baby a better chance for leading a healthy, normal life.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes – What to Change When You're Expecting

When you’re pregnant, you’ll want to do everything you can to have a healthy pregnancy and baby. This means making some specific changes in your diet and lifestyle. The following are some of the changes you’ll want to make.

First of all, when you begin trying to conceive, go ahead and make the changes you’ll need to have in place when you’re pregnant. For example, if you smoke, stop. If you drink alcohol, stop. This way you won't have to worry if you had those two margaritas before or after you conceived.

In addition, you should see your health care provider for a pre-conception check-up. If you have any chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, asthma or diabetes, get them under control. Or, if you’re taking any prescription medications, talk with your health care provider about whether they’re safe to use during pregnancy or if you should change medications. Start taking prenatal vitamins now so that you’ll be sure to have enough folic acid available when you conceive.

Other lifestyle changes you may need to make could include your work environment. If you’re regularly exposed to chemicals that could be hazardous to your baby, for example, you may need to change your work environment. If your work requires you to stand for long periods of time, you may need an adjustment as your pregnancy progresses. Or, if your work is physically demanding, you may need to be accommodated as your baby grows. And if you’re exposed to loud noises, speak with your supervisor; after all, your baby will soon be able to hear too.

You’ll also need to eliminate certain foods from your diet while you’re pregnant. For example, no more sushi, no unpasteurized fruit juices, no soft or unpasteurized cheeses, no raw eggs, no uncooked or undercooked meats, and no fish that could carry heavy metals. It’s also a good idea to avoid luncheon meats and other foods processed with nitrites and nitrates. Avoid swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, as these fish may contain mercury. 

In addition, don’t eat raw fish, raw seafood or ceviche. Unpasteurized cheeses you should avoid include brie, feta, blue cheese, camembert, queso blanco, queso fresco, and panela (the last three of which are Mexican-style cheeses). It’s safe to eat small quantities of liver, but you should otherwise avoid eating large quantities of any organ meats. Make sure any fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed before consuming them and don’t eat raw sprouts, as they can harbor dangerous bacteria.

Give up junk food as much as possible – it contains no nutritional value and keeps you from eating foods that are better for you. Also, choose whole grain products over products made with enriched wheat flour whenever possible.

Being pregnant also means giving up or greatly reducing your intake of beverages with caffeine, including coffee, tea and soft drinks. If you aren’t already in the habit of drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water each day, begin to get into the habit – pregnancy will be very demanding on your body and it’s important to stay hydrated as much as possible. 

How To Enhance Male Fertility - Male Fertility Boosters

Male fertility is an issue that many people are unaware of and need to contend with. It is said that nearly 30% to 50% of couples who have trouble making a baby are affected by the Male fertility issue. The main reason for this problem is the inability to produce adequate quantities of healthy sperms. It could also be due to problems in getting the sperm into the woman due to impotency, premature, inhibited or retrograde ejaculation. Many couples who are keen on pregnancy planning feel frustrated when their repeated attempts seem to fail and consult their physicians who usually run fertility checks on both partners. Male fertility test is not conducted usually until the couples have been trying to make a baby for more than a period of a year.

Tips To Help Prevent Male Infertility

•     Regular exercise
•     Practicing relaxation techniques
•     Staying fit- not obese nor underweight
•     Eating a well balanced diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Ways To Increase Sperm Count

There are several ways in which one can increase sperm count. Increasing dietary antioxidant intake by increasing consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables has been recommended. Regular helpings of apples, green leafy vegetables, peppers, oranges etc. is recommended as these are said to be foods that increase sperm count.

Diet plays an important role in influencing male fertility issues. Vitamins to increase sperm count such as vitamin C, E, multi vitamin tablets and nutrients like zinc, folate and selenium are to be included in the diet.

There are several sperm count enhancers available such as herbs, massage oils etc. herbs such as Maca, ginseng, astralagus, saw palmetto, Flax seed oil, sun flower and pumpkin seeds, fish oils etc. are said to aid in raising sperm count. There are several over-the-counter products claiming to aid in increasing male fertility. Consult your physician before you try them.

The pre pregnancy stage can be utilized to get you ready physically and mentally for childbirth. Try to lead a lifestyle that will help increase your chances such as abstaining from smoking, drinking, drugs etc. regular exercise and drinking plenty of water is also recommended. Avoid wearing tight fitting cloths, carrying cell phones and laptops.

Remember there are other options available and try not to get too tense while trying to make your partner pregnant. Stress has a negative influence and can delay conception. Read books and magazines to learn as much as you can and above all have a positive attitude.

Causes Of Male fertility

•    Varicoceles are dilated scrotal veins that impair proper sperm development by inhibiting proper drainage of blood, this is an easily correctible condition.
•     Sperm disorders due to problems in their production and development are common too. Low sperm count, abnormal shaped sperms, no sperm production at all are some of the defects that can cause infertility.
•     Retrograde ejaculation is when the semen drains into the bladder due to malfunctioning muscles and nerves of the bladder which do not close the bladder during orgasm, and can be caused due to diseases, operations, or as a result of medication.
•     Obstruction that may block the normal passage of sperm
•     Low hormone levels
•     Genetic abnormalities
•     Side effects of certain medication such as anabolic steroids,
•     Illnesses such as mumps orchitis and epididymitis.
•     Diseases such as cancer of the pituitary
•   Exposure to excessive heat through hot tubs, saunas etc. radiation, toxins, heavy metals or chemotherapy
•     Drug, alcohol or substance abuse
•     Excessive smoking
•     Psychological and physiological impotency

The good news is that almost half the cases of male fertility are curable by a simple surgical procedure or with medication. There are methods such as in vitro fertilization or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection to help couples. 

Most Fertile Period - Determining Your Fertile Period

The most fertile period for a woman is the specific time of the month when her chances of getting pregnant are the highest. Think of your friends who have had an unplanned pregnancy – it was because they had sexual intercourse during this most fertile period. A woman's menstrual period is on average approximately 28 days long (can be shorter or longer) and involves a special process called “ovulation”. During this process, one of the women's ovaries will release an ovum (the egg) that will travel through the fallopian tube down to the uterus. Ovulation occurs in the middle of the cycle, approximately 14 days after the beginning of the menstrual period – so about 2 weeks after a woman has her “period”. The exact timing is different in every woman. If you wish to get pregnant, it is crucial to have sexual intercourse within the time period 2-3 days before or up to 12-24 hours after ovulation. If intercourse occurs too soon before ovulation, or if it occurs a few days after ovulation, the chance of becoming pregnant is very low. If the male ejaculate (sperm) is able to travel through the uterus to the fallopian tubes at the exact time when the egg is there waiting, then fertilization occurs. Now, the egg and sperm are fused together as one – the “embryo.” A few days later, the newly fertilized egg will implant itself in the uterus, and the woman is pregnant! Usually, the woman will not know she is pregnant until she misses her period. You can confirm you are pregnant by performing a Urine Pregnancy Test, which can be purchased at any pharmacy/grocery store. The urine pregnancy test measures a special hormone in the urine that will only be present if you are pregnant.

Many couples do not understand the concept of the fertile period. This leads both to unplanned pregnancies as well as couples who get very upset and frustrated that they can' get pregnant. This is why it is very important to understand the above information.

The first day of the menstrual period is the day the woman begins to have her menses, otherwise known as her “period. During days 5-10 the ovaries are getting ready to release an egg that will be ready to be fertilized. At this time, the uterus is also getting ready to accept the fertilized egg. The uterus has to be ready so the embryo can develop into a baby.

On average, the egg (ovum) is released on day 14 but can range from days 13-16 in different women. The egg then travels down the fallopian tubules. The ovum has a life span of only about 12 to 24 hours – so sexual intercourse must occur right before or during this time period to have a chance for becoming pregnant. If there is no sperm waiting in the fallopian tube to fertilize the ovum, the ovum will break down and the woman can't get pregnant. 2 weeks later the woman will have her period.

If you have had trouble getting pregnant for a few months, you can actually calculate when your most fertile period will be! The cheapest and easiest way it to keep a calendar and keep track of how many days there are in between the first day of your last two periods. Odds are, you are “ovulating” right smack in the middle of that time. Some women are unlucky and will feel pain in their ovaries every 2 weeks before their period – this pain is actually ovulation! So while you might be unlucky to experience this pain, you are lucky in that you will know when you are most fertile! There are also many commercially available products that will analyze your basal body temperature and changes that occur in the cervical mucous to tell you when you are pregnant.

During ovulation, the body temperature increases by 0.5 to 1.6 degrees above a woman's normal temperature. Thus, taking your temperature can help identify your fertile period. Additionally during ovulation, the cervical mucous is clear and stretchy unlike other days when it is pasty and thick. These methods are not exact – but you can purchase special products at pharmacies that will help you determine your most fertile period. You can consider these options if you have been having trouble for a few months.

How do I know if I can even get pregnant?

Don't worry, not everyone gets pregnant the first time they try! Especially if the woman is not in good health (overweight, diabetes, etc…so stay healthy and avoid all alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes!) In fact, it takes a lot of couples several months of trying. Doctors will not consider that you have fertility problems unless you have been having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for an entire year. If you have reached this point, make an appointment with your physician, and they can help try to figure out and fix the underlying cause. And don't worry too much if you reach this point, because there are still several options available for helping you to become pregnant!

How To Determine The Fertile Period

To determine the fertile period of a woman it is necessary to understand the menstruation cycle. It varies between 23 and 35 days among women (average = 28 days) and it is divided into two phases. The first phase is before ovulation; doctors call this phase the “follicular phase” and the “proliferative phase”. The second phase is after ovulation; doctors call this phase the “luteal phase” and the “secretory phase”.

When is the Best Time to Get Pregnant?

When it comes to planning your pregnancy, you need to make sure you are ready to have a baby! There are four very important things you should consider before deciding to have a child. When you have considered and met all the requirements, all that’s left is finding the right time. Once the timing is perfect, you’ve found the best time to get pregnant! Many of these things can be handled in your pre-pregnancy planning process.

The first way to tell that it’s the right time to get pregnant is that you have a strong relationship with your partner. You and your partner will have to make many important decisions and compromises as you become pregnant and as your child grows up. Don’t forget, the first decision to make is if and when you should attempt to get pregnant. Raising a child is hard work and the only way to be sure that you can make it through these trials and tribulations is by having a strong relationship with your partner from the very beginning. If you aren’t ready to commit to this person for the rest of your life, you certainly aren’t ready to bring a child into the world.

The second thing to consider is finances. You need to be able to handle the expenses involved in becoming pregnant, having the baby, and raising your child. Make sure you have good heath insurance to help cover the high costs of having a baby. You will have several doctor appointments throughout the course of your pregnancy. You see the doctor frequently, so make sure both you and your baby are healthy during the pregnancy. You may also have to take medicine if you develop diabetes or high blood pressure during your pregnancy. Also, your baby will have multiple doctor visits for the first year of life. You should also make sure that you have good savings in order as well as the disposable income required to purchase all the items you’ll need for your baby (diapers, clothes, toys, crib, etc). Remember, you will need to take at least some time off of your job to give birth and then take care of your baby, so you will need to have some money saved. You also need to be prepared financially in case you have to take extended time off if you or your baby has to be in the hospital. Remember, a healthy pregnancy will lead to a healthy baby that will not require hospitalization!

The third thing to consider when deciding if it’s the best time for you to get pregnant is your personal health. You can check with your doctor to make sure that your health is stable, and that no alterations to current treatments need to be made in order for you to have a healthy pregnancy.

Finally, when you know you’re ready to have a baby, you need to determine the best time to get pregnant. This is usually done using a variety of methods. Women generally ovulate about two weeks into their menstrual cycle. Therefore, if you have a normal twenty-eight day cycle, the best time to get pregnant is on the fourteenth to sixteenth days of your cycle.

If you want a better picture of when your best chances of conceiving are, you may want to purchase a basal thermometer. Your basal temperature will go up about one half to one and one half degrees when you ovulate. You may also notice as you start monitoring your cycles more closely that you actually cramp a bit when the egg drops, letting you know immediately that the timing is right. You can also tell by testing the elasticity of vaginal fluids. Your doctor can give you more information on tracking your fertility using any of these methods.

You can, of course, go really high tech and be absolutely certain of the best time to get pregnant by purchasing an ovulation kit. These kits come with everything you need to determine when you’re ovulating. These kits take all the guesswork out of the equation, and allow you to get pregnant much faster than by guesswork alone.

Pregnancy – Having a Healthy Pregnancy

There are many things that you should do in order to have a healthy pregnancy. You need to consider not just what to do during the pregnancy, but what you can do before and after as well to maintain your health and that of your coming baby. You can get a lot of really specific, personalized details about this from your doctor, but the following segments should give you a clear idea of the general things you can do to have a healthy pregnancy.

Starting Out Healthy

In order to have a healthy pregnancy, you have to be healthy before you get pregnant. Make sure that you visit your doctor as soon as you begin to consider pregnancy. You should have a pap test, as well as a mammogram and a general physical. Your doctor will let you know if you’re at your healthiest weight, make sure you have good heart health and assist you with any other health concerns before you get pregnant.

Another thing to do before you get pregnant is to start a vitamin regimen. Vitamin B12 and folic acids can really make a difference in your health during pregnancy, as well as the health of your baby. Pregnancy also takes a lot of calcium and iron out of your body, so you should be sure that you’re adding these to your diet as well.

Staying Healthy Throughout the Pregnancy

You can stay healthy throughout your pregnancy by making sure you follow your doctor’s advice and maintain your current nutrition and vitamins. Keeping your stress level low will also help you and your baby to stay healthy as the pregnancy wears on.

Most importantly, you need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise program. Your cravings will try to take over, but you need to remember to eat healthy and maintain the goal wait determined by you and your doctor. You should also maintain an exercise program approved by your doctor – no matter how swollen your feet are or how much your back hurts.

All of these things will keep you and your baby healthy during your pregnancy. In fact, they’ll also help you remain healthy after you have the baby. The healthier you eat and the more exercise you get while you are pregnant, the easier it will be to regain your pre-pregnancy figure and shape after the baby is born.

Staying Healthy After the Pregnancy

Immediately after you have your baby, you’ll feel very tired and worn down. You may become so busy taking care of the baby and your home that you neglect to take care of your own health – this is a huge mistake.

Pregnancy takes a lot out of you, and taking care of a newborn baby makes it difficult to regain your former level of health and comfort. You need to take the initiative, no matter how tired you are, to get back into your exercise routine as soon as you and your doctor feel you are physically able. You should also maintain your healthy diet and get as much sleep as possible by sleeping when your baby naps.

Planned Pregnancy Is Good For You And Your Baby - Things To Consider While Planning Pregnancy

Many people who are planning pregnancy and desire to have a healthy baby consider a talk with a health care practitioner and read books to guide them through each and every stage of preparing, conceiving and delivering their child. A visit to a physician can help identify ways you can improve your chances of getting pregnant and how you can avoid things that have a detrimental effect on pregnancy. Several things are taken into account while planning pregnancy such as the age, health, medical conditions if any, family history, vaccinations, exercise, abstinence from harmful substances and past pregnancy history etc. of the parents. When pregnancy planning is adopted the parents increase the chances of having a normal, healthy baby.

Pre Planning Your Pregnancy

Conception planning can be your insurance against things going wrong during pregnancy. When you have decided to create a new life, it is your responsibility to make sure that you give the child the best chance to have a normal, healthy and happy life. This begins from the pregnancy pre planning stage by having a physical examination to ensure that you are healthy and fit to have a baby. Eating a well balanced and nutritious diet that is rich in fiber, vitamins and folic acid and taking additional supplements that may be recommended by your physician will help get your body ready for the intense demands of pregnancy and childbirth. Emphasis is placed on staying fit mentally and physically while planning pregnancy and during child birth. A regular exercise regime and abstaining from vices [smoking, drinking, and drugs] and over-the-counter medication are crucial too.

There are several tools available to help you get pregnant when you want to such as a pregnancy planning calendar. Consult your physician especially if you are planning for second pregnancy and you had complications during the first pregnancy. Be sure that you are physically fit as inter pregnancy weight gain can lead to complications during the second pregnancy. Maintaining the right body mass index and trying relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation are said to have a positive effect.

Another factor that has to be considered while planning pregnancy is financial planning. Many people get caught up with the idea of a child and get a shock when they see the pile of mounting bills. This can cause friction and tension between the couple which may have adverse complications such as hypertension in the mother. The regular visits to the physician, hospital bills, the shopping for baby products which can be a seemingly never ending list, making provisions for the baby in the house such as a crib, a bed, a baby seat etc. are all there in your list of things to do. Let's face it, babies are expensive, but if you plan carefully and take care of finances such as arranging for a health insurance, the process of pregnancy and child birth may be much more affordable. Pay checks from your employer usually stop 6 weeks after the birth of your child, so it will help if you start cutting down unnecessary expenditure and start saving.

Pre pregnancy planning is a must as many people are not aware how important it is. If you plan your pregnancy and are careful you may not end up taking medication that may cause complications in the event that you were pregnant and unaware of it.

If you are planning pregnancy be sure that you seek professional advice as well as read books that provide positive guidance. Try and establish a better and stronger relationship with your partner as pregnancy and childbirth may add a strain to your relationship with your partner. But if you understand and empathize with each other, you could be each other's biggest support. Thus planning pregnancy has many advantages.

24 Weeks Pregnant

You are now moving into your 7th month of your pregnancy when you start your 24th week. This means that you are 2/3rds of the way to delivering your baby.  Your bundle of joy is getting ready for his or her life on the outside and is making great strides to getting there.

By week 24 of pregnancy, your little one will be approximately 8.4 inches in length and will weigh around 1.4 pounds. You can expect your baby to gain around 6 ounces this week and each week here after. The weight your baby is gaining will be mainly muscle, organs, tissues and bone mass. By the end of the week, your baby may tip the scales at a whopping 1.5 pounds. At this point in your pregnancy, your baby has a basic control over his or her senses such as: vision, touch, taste, smell and hearing.  You baby can also swallow as well. The head of your baby may seem a bit large in comparison with its body right now but it will all even out.

Here is a breakdown of some of the progress your baby has made:

    The inner ear of your baby is fully developed

    The blood vessels that are in the lungs are now developing

    The eyelashes on your little one are just about complete

    Your baby’s white blood cells are starting to form as well, which will help fight disease and infection

You now know more about your body then you ever did before and you are glowing with the changes that nature has bestowed upon you. Your breasts are now preparing to produce milk to feed your baby and you will continue to see changes in your breasts as they start to fill with milk and the areolas continue to grow. You will notice that your breasts are getting more and more tender each day as they make the necessary changes.  Now would be a good time to start looking into nursing bras or to talk with your doctor if you are not going to breast-feed.  There are many benefits for you and your baby where breast-feeding is concerned so make this decision wisely.

Some of the other things that you may or may not have trouble with or feel would be leg cramps, lower back pain, constipation, heartburn and difficulty getting comfortable to sleep. You can use a body pillow that helps women sleep while pregnancy as it cradles your body and relives pressure where needed. You may also see that you are forgetful but do not worry as this is normal with all pregnancies. You can expect a prenatal visit to your doctor this week as well. Your doctor will be checking all of the same things that he or she has been doing all along and will most likely have you do a glucose test. Be sure to keep a list of questions for your doctor to go over with him or her at each visit.

The Process Of Conception And Fertilization - The Importance Of Planning Pregnancy

Pregnancy planning is not given much importance by many people who end up being surprised by the physical, mental and financial strain that an unplanned pregnancy can cause. Several factors have to be considered if you aim to give birth to a healthy and well formed child. If you believe in pregnancy planning then things may be much easier than you expected as you had planned carefully and are prepared.

    It is necessary for both partners to adapt a smoke, alcohol and drug free life. Partners are advised to avoid exposure to hazardous materials [pesticides and solvents] and other work-place hazards. At times the partners may have trouble such as low sperm count, impotency, premature ejaculation etc. There are several ways to enhance male fertility such as drug therapy, and other herbal remedies.

    The health of the baby is influenced by various factors such as family history, genetics, mental and physical well being of the parents, diet, etc. It will be useful if you read some books on pre pregnancy planning to help you plan correctly, be sure to consult a physician who you trust.

    Diet and exercise play an important role in pregnancy planning and many doctors recommend folic acid and vitamin supplements during the pregnancy planning stage as they have helped reduce birth defects to a certain extent.

Pregnancy planning involves so many aspects such as getting ready for taking a break from work, anticipating various changes to your lifestyle as a result of the new born baby, the hard work and strain that taking care of an infant necessitates. It is necessary for both of you to stay committed to each other and be resilient to the accompanying changes, be healthy and mentally strong, with the goal of producing an environment where the child will flourish and grow.

Factors To Be Considered While Planning For Pregnancy

    It is a big commitment to have a child, be sure that you have selected the right kind of partner before planning a pregnancy. Select one who loves you, will understand and accept the changes that are to occur, supports you, who will do his part to see that the baby will be born healthy and one who will care for both of you after the birth.

    If you are having problems, it will be best to sort them out as stress and emotional strain can have an adverse effect on the health of the mother and the child.

    

Many couples use contraceptives, so if you pre plan your pregnancy as per the advice of your physician, you will get ready mentally and physically for the changes during the pregnancy planning stage. It is best to wait for about 2 months at least to avoid getting pregnant without using any medication, so ask your physician what methods you can adopt to avoid an accident during this stage.

    A thorough medical check-up of both parents will help doctors determine if there are any problems and if so to take the necessary action. Once the doctors have given you the go ahead sign you may use a pregnancy planning calendar and determine the right time to create your baby.

    Ovulation calendars will help increase your chances of getting pregnant when you want to.

    It takes time for some people who have stopped using contraceptives may be even up to a year at times, use that time to exercise regularly, eat a well balanced diet and avoid stuff that may be not be conducive to pregnancy, do remember conception planning is vital for ensuring a healthy baby. Conception occurs when the sperm fertilizes the ovum forming a cell with 46 chromosomes. It starts to divide and moves from the fallopian tubes into the uterus where it attaches itself and develops into that bundle of joy that you crave to hold in your arms!

Need For A Healthy Child - The Advantages Of Pre Pregnancy Planning

Pre pregnancy planning is vital if you desire to have a healthy child and a normal pregnancy. One of the biggest decisions that couples can make is to have a child. It is necessary to fully understand what new responsibilities and tasks it entails before both of you decide to have a baby. It could be a disaster if you become pregnant and find out that you were not compatible after all, this will have an adverse effect on the mother's health as well as the proper development of the baby. Pre pregnancy planning is necessary not only to increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy but also ensure that you are prepared for the additional responsibilities.

Pre Pregnancy Preparation

Planning a pregnancy is important as it can ensure that you create an environment that is right for bringing a child into the world helping the child stay fit mentally and physically. A thorough physical check up can alert you to any problems that may need extra attention during pregnancy. Things to consider will be vaccinations against Rubella, Hepatitis B, as well as screening for genetic disorders, disease conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, seizures and other diseases such as UTI and sexually transmitted diseases.

Planning pregnancy involves staying fit by eating healthy and exercising. It will be helpful if you avoid eating junk and fatty foods, smoking, coffee, drug and alcohol etc. Many physicians recommend supplements of vitamins especially vitamin b and folic acid as they help prevent birth defects to a great extent. Avoid eating undercooked food especially meat. A diet rich in folic acid such as orange juice, green leafy vegetables, beans, fortified cereals is recommended as a part of your Pre pregnancy planning.

If you had been taking contraceptives, be sure you consult the doctor to find out when it is safe to get pregnant after stopping the medication. Doctors usually recommend at least two normal menstrual cycles before it can be considered to be safe to get pregnant. Track your period cycle as it will help determine when you are ovulating and when you have the maximum chances of getting pregnant. Learn about what method to adopt to avoid getting pregnant in the meantime. It may take some people 6 to 12 months to start ovulating after discontinuing contraceptives. You may benefit if you attend pre conception counseling from your physician. Read books on how to plan your pregnancy and the things that you need to avoid, it will help you a lot as many wannabe mothers do not know how critical Pre pregnancy planning is.

Pre pregnancy planning is necessary for at least 2 to 4 months prior to pregnancy. This will help you get yourself ready for a healthy childbirth. A well planned diet with necessary supplements, avoiding contact with chemicals, potential carriers of infections such as cats which can cause Toxoplasmosis etc. may be a start of your pre pregnancy planning routine. Regular exercise, especially yoga is said to be good. If you have to take certain medications, be sure that you consult your physician. If you plan on getting pregnant as early as possible, be sure you carry out a blood group compatibility test to avoid complications and take corrective action.

It is not only women who have to adapt to these changes but also men. Pre pregnancy concerns men too such as those who work with certain chemicals; those who smoke, drink or do drugs will need to get rid of their habits if they need to create an environment that is conducive to conception, healthy pregnancy and birth. A health check up may alert them about potential problems such as low sperm count, infertility etc. and help them seek corrective treatment.

The other important aspect of pre pregnancy planning is ensuring that you have sufficient health insurance cover as well as the necessary finances to meet the rising expenditure.