Pregnancy Care
Pregnancy Care
How can you support your partner’s pregnancy?
Women with a well supportive partner have less anxiety and stress during pregnancy. They easily give up bad habits like smoking, drinking alcohol and drug abuse. Babies born to well supported mothers are more healthy with less growth problems. Partners can support the new mothers by educating them about pregnancy, help in making healthy lifestyle choices and taking care of timely ante-natal checkups.
How long does a normal pregnancy last?
A normal pregnancy lasts about 9 months and 7 days i.e. 40 weeks from the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period (LMP).
What happens during the first trimester (the first 13 weeks) of pregnancy?
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms and can occur at any time during the day or night. Mood swings are common. There may be increased frequency of urine. Breast changes start taking place.
What happens during the second trimester (14-27 weeks) of pregnancy?
It is the best time during pregnancy. The abdomen grows and pregnancy becomes more obvious. Energy levels improve, and morning sickness is seen no more. Fetal movements are well appreciated around 20 weeks.
What happens during the third trimester (weeks 28–40) of pregnancy?
There is slight discomfort as the baby grows. There may be breathing difficulty, trouble sleeping, walking quickly, and doing routine tasks.
What lifestyle modifications are needed during pregnancy?
Healthy meals together with plenty of rest and exercise are important. Avoid harmful substances such as smoking, alcohol, and illegal drugs.
Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?
Yes, you can have sex throughout pregnancy unless health care professional has told otherwise.
When is the mother discharged from the hospital?
After the baby is born, mother is kept under observation for 24 hours in case of normal delivery and 3-4 days in cesarean section.
What is postpartum depression?
New mothers commonly feel sad, upset, or anxious after childbirth. Mild feelings of sadness are called postpartum blues or “baby blues.” When these feelings are more extreme lasting for longer than a week or two, it may be indicate a more serious condition known as postpartum depression.
What are the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression?
- The baby blues do not start to fade after about 1 week, or the feelings get worse.
- Feelings of sadness, doubt, guilt, or helplessness that seem to increase each week and get in the way of her normal routine.
- She is not able to care for herself or her baby.
- She has trouble doing tasks at home or on the job.
- Her appetite changes.
- Things that used to bring her pleasure no longer do.
- Concern and worry about the baby are too intense, or interest in the baby is lacking.
- She feels very panicked or anxious.
- She may be afraid to be left alone with the baby.
- She fears harming the baby.
- She has thoughts of self-harm or suicide.