WOMEN - Alarming rise in depression cases DURING pregnancy 'because of mounting pressure to juggle career and financial burdens'

Alarming rise in depression cases DURING pregnancy 'because of mounting pressure to juggle career and financial burdens'

• 20,000 women observed to have some form of mental health complaint
• Midwives say women are trying to juggle career, and be a perfect mother
• Women said to be 'ashamed' to admit they are depressed when they are expected to be enjoying a period of happiness and anticipation
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By SOPHIE BORLAND FOR THE DAILY MAIL

PUBLISHED: 22:32 GMT, 31 December 2014 | UPDATED: 23:19 GMT, 31 December 2014

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Rising numbers of women are developing depression while they are pregnant due to the growing expectations of motherhood

Rising numbers of women are developing depression while they are pregnant due to the growing expectations of motherhood, experts have claimed.

Around 20,000 women were observed to have some form of mental health complaint before they gave birth last year, more than three times the number detected four years ago.

Midwives and academics blame the sharp increase on the mounting pressures faced by women who try to juggle a career, cope with financial burdens and still be a perfect mother.

The rise is also thought to be caused by the fact that doctors are now better at detecting mental health problems. 

However, the condition is still not as widely recognised by doctors and midwives as postnatal depression. 

Experts also think many women are ashamed to admit they are depressed when they are expected to be enjoying a period of happiness and anticipation.

Research has shown that up to one in seven women develop prenatal depression, which can range from mild anxiety through to compulsive behaviours such as excessive hand-washing.

The condition is thought to be partly triggered by the surge of hormones women have to deal with during pregnancy, and partly caused by the emotional strain of the change which is about to occur in their lives.

The latest figures from the Department of Health have revealed that in 2012/3, around 20,000 women had been diagnosed with a mental illness when they gave birth compared to just 6,700 in 2008/9.

Elizabeth Duff, senior policy advisor at the NCT – formerly known as the National Childbirth Trust – said: ‘There are a lot of pressures.

‘Women are having to plan their maternity leave and when they go back to work.

‘Not all employers are very sympathetic and we are aware women delay telling colleagues and their managers that they are pregnant and struggle through when they are not feeling well.

 'They go on working until the last minute, which can just leave them not having enough time to rest and make emotional preparations.’ 

She added: ‘Depression can be triggered by financial problems and any woman is going to have to face a loss of household income, on top of the cost of a new baby.’

FAMILIES SPEND AN AVERAGE OF £100 A WEEK TO PAY FOR CHILDCARE 

Families are spending an average of more than £100 a week to pay for childcare in many parts of the country, figures have revealed.

The average gross weekly pay in England is currently £421.60. But out of the 132 local authorities which replied to a Labour childcare survey, 100 said that the cost of putting a child in nursery for 25 hours a week is now more than £100.

This means that the average cost of part-time childcare is now more than £100 in 76 per cent of areas polled.

In Bexley, South-East London, parents were paying an average of £195 a week for 25 hours of nursery care for a child under two – the equivalent of 46.5 per cent of the area’s average weekly income. In Thurrock, Essex, a place for a child older than two cost £185 a week for 25 hours of care, more than 47 per cent of the average weekly income.

MP Alison McGovern, Labour’s childcare spokesman, said: ‘Labour gets that increased help with childcare is good for families and good for the economy.

‘However families are facing a cost-of-living crisis under David Cameron, coming under increasing pressure from soaring childcare costs, falling childcare places and reduced support from this Tory-led Government.’

She added: ‘We would extend free childcare for three and four-year-olds with parents in work from 15 to 25 hours, worth £1,500 per child per year.’

Louise Silverton, director for midwifery at the Royal College of Midwives, said members of the College had found they were increasingly recording that women were developing depression and anxiety during pregnancy.

She believes this is partly due to the deluge of health advice given to pregnant women – on things like cutting back on alcohol and avoiding unpasteurised milk – which only serve to make them more anxious.

She also said women undergo many more scans compared to 30 years ago, and suggested that this makes them nervous far earlier on in the pregnancy.

She went on to say: ‘There are growing stresses on women to be perfect. Pregnancy is a time of very mixed emotions. I wouldn’t say that 35 years ago they used to sail through but they 

didn’t particularly worry.

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Midwives and academics blame the sharp increase on the mounting pressures faced by women who try to juggle a career, cope with financial burdens and still be a perfect mother

‘They didn’t have so many expectations about what sort of mother they were going to be. 

There was far less pressure. We didn’t tell women too much about what they should eat or drink, but now everybody worries.’ Previous research has shown that between 10 and 15 

per cent of women suffer from some form of antenatal depression, making it as common as postnatal depression.

Professor Ian Jones, chairman of the campaign group Maternal Mental Health Alliance, believes there are several explanations for the rise in cases.

He said: ‘The first is that it reflects a real increase in the number of women developing 

prenatal mental illness – a wide range of conditions ranging from extremely severe cases to mild depression and anxiety.

‘However the second explanation is that we are getting better at recognising these 

conditions. Women before who were developing illnesses weren’t being picked up, referred 

or recognised.

‘But it’s clear that many women suffer from mental health problems during pregnancy and 

some still don’t get the help they need.’

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2893012/Alarming-rise-depression-cases-pregnancy-mounting-pressure-juggle-career-financial-burdens.html#ixzz3NYyDStIu 

WOMEN - Bleeding during pregnancy

Blood loss through the vagina during pregnancy is 

a common occurrence, especially during early pregnancy.

Blood loss from the vagina during pregnancy is fairly common, affecting about 30 per cent of women. About half of these women will miscarry while the other half will go on to have an otherwise normal pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Most miscarriages occur during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Bleeding usually occurs within the first trimester and is known as 'threatened miscarriage', while blood loss after 24 weeks is called 'ante-partum hemorrhage'.

Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/

WOMEN - Causes of bleeding during pregnancy

It may be difficult to identify the reason why bleeding 

is occurring but there are a few possible causes.

 

Reasons for bleeding during pregnancy include:

Implantation bleed: occurs about 10 to 14 days after fertilisation when the fertilised egg becomes buried in the uterine lining causing light spotting or streaking of blood. Bleeding usually stops after a day or two.

Cervical changes: harmless changes to the cervix, such as an increased blood flow and softening of the cervix may cause bleeding after sex or an examination.

Breakthrough bleeding: when bleeding occurs during pregnancy at the time you'd normally expect your period, ie four, eight and 12 weeks of pregnancy. This occurs because hormone levels are not high enough to stop a period occurring. It normally stops after the first trimester.

Miscarriage: a miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the baby can survive outside the womb. Sometimes there's no apparent cause for a miscarriage but most are the result of the foetus not developing properly. Bleeding is the most common sign of a miscarriage.

Ectopic pregnancy: when the fertilised egg implants in an area outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancies cannot develop normally and are an emergency situation needing medical attention.

Placenta praevia: when the placenta partially or totally covers the cervical canal and may cause severe vaginal bleeding before or during delivery. Different degrees of severity can occur with this condition.

Placental abruption: the placenta partially or completely separates from the wall of the uterus. Heavy bleeding and pain are symptoms and the condition requires hospital admission.

A 'show': vaginal bleeding close to birth can occur as the cervix thins and relax in preparation for labour. When this happens the plug of mucus sealing the opening of the cervix comes away resulting in a blood-tinged discharge. This is a normal sign of impending labour.

Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/

WOMEN - What do you do if you bleed during pregnancy?

Vaginal bleeding should always be reported to a doctor, 

especially when a pregnancy is beyond the first 20 weeks.

 

For bleeding during prenancy, tests may include a vaginal examination, blood tests - to check hormone levels - and an ultrasound to provide a picture of the pregnancy.

In cases where symptoms aren't severe and during early stages of pregnancy, you may be monitoring and sometimes kept overnight in hospital. (If bleeding occurs during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy you are often simply told to watch and wait.)

In other cases hospitalisation may be required until birth. 

Home care during "watch and wait" includes:

• Bed rest
• Using pads, not tampons, during the bleeding
• Taking mild painkillers
• Avoiding sex
• Alerting a doctor to any changes

Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/

PREGNANCY CARE - 7 Ways To Treat Nail Fungus Naturally During Pregnancy: Its Causes

BY SALINA ON OCTOBER 24, 2013

Nail fungus refers fungal infection affecting any part of the nail bed, nail matrix or the plate. This condition is primarily associated with cosmetic concerns; but can also lead to disfigurement, pain and functional impairment. This condition is not life threatening but can often be very stigmatism and worrying for some.

Estimates suggest that the prevalence ranges between 3 to 8% of the general population. It is more frequently observed in individuals with suppressed immunity, chronic condition and during pregnancy.

Causes Of Nail Fungus During Pregnancy

Here are some of the risk factors that are associated with nail fungus,

• During pregnancy, a female’s immune system undergoes significant alterations.
  This increasing risk of suffering from nail fungus. Poor dietary regimen and elevated stress can both act as contributing factors.

• Females suffering from diabetes during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing nail fungus. Diabetes results in poor blood sugar regulation and hyperglycemia (i.e. increase blood sugar levels). This promotes growth of fungus and bacteria, especially on the skin.

• Trauma to the nail during pregnancy can also increase the chances of nail fungus.

• Excessive sweating or a humid and warm climate can increase the probability of nail fungus during pregnancy.

• Use of certain medications, especially steroids can hamper immunity.
  Altered immunity can lead to increased risk of developing nail fungus. Such medications are often prescribed in cases of renal dysfunctions or COPD during pregnancy.

• Poor skin hygiene, communal bathing and engaging in sporting activities can also lead to nail fungus.

Reports suggest that most of the nail fungus infections are caused by Malassezia furfur. About 8 to 10% of nail fungus are caused by Candida albicans, while another 1 to 5% may be attributed to Scopulariopsis breyicaulis. However, there is usually no difference in the clinical manifestation or treatment protocol.

7 Natural Ways To Treat Nail Fungus In Pregnancy

Here are some essential tips to treat nail fungus during pregnancy. Most of these tips are natural, home based, safe and effective.

1. Local application of tea tree oil is effective in most cases. Tea tree oil has strong anti fungal properties. This essential oil should be used in a dilution of 5%. Dab the essential oil on a cotton pad and apply it at the site. Repeat this twice a day.
2. Local application of paste of turmeric with any base oil like coconut is helpful. Turmeric has strong anti-microbial properties and is effective against all forms of nail fungus.
3. Consume three flakes of garlic each day. Garlic is a natural immune booster and fights infections. Garlic consumption is safer compared to oral antibiotics or oral anti-fungals. Consume garlic flakes with raw honey to increase its efficacy.
4. Keep the nail bed as dry and clean as possible. Immediately after a bath, dab the site with dry cotton to avoid keeping the area moist. Moisture can promote fungal growth.
5. Increase intake of foods rich in Vitamin C. Include lemon, lime, oranges, mangoes, etc in your regular diet. Alternatively increase vitamin c supplements. This helps boost natural immunity and protects against fungal infection.
6. In case of pain, add a table spoon of turmeric and tablespoon of raw honey to a glass of milk. Drink twice a day. Honey and turmeric help improve natural immunity and reduce inflammation, respectively.
7. Finally, protect the infected nail bed from trauma or injury. A superadded injury can prolong the infection and increase risk of spread to surrounding nails.

Source: http://www.simple-remedies.com/

PEOPLE - Mood Challenges During Pregnancy

January 26, 2012  • By Andrea Schneider, LCSW Postpartum Depression Topic Expert Contributor

A lot of attention has been paid to postpartum depression, due in part to celebrities such as Brooke Shields, Marie Osmond, and Gwyneth Paltrow helping to destigmatize the most common complication of childbirth. As an advocate, therapist, mother, and survivor of postpartum depression, I am happy that medical communities and the public at large are becoming familiar with perinatal mood/anxiety disorders (PMADs, the clinical term). However, there is still much work to be done.

Most women of childbearing age are not aware of the potential to develop depression or anxiety during pregnancy. A myth exists that pregnancy is a period that is protective of emotional health. Media images portraying pregnant women blissfully anticipating birth with swollen bellies may further trouble women who feel down or anxious while pregnant and may further compound a sense of helplessness or a drop in willingness to reach out for help.

The reality is that for some 10% of pregnant women, antenatal/prenatal depression presents as a challenge. And 6% of pregnant women will experience anxiety. The percentages are likely higher and underreported. Most at risk are pregnant teens and those in poverty, where the rates of mood challenges surrounding childbirth are considerably higher.

The good news is that depression and anxiety during pregnancy are very treatable, as is postpartum depression. What’s key is making sure women are getting the proper screening at several points during their pregnancy and throughout the first year after giving birth. Women’s hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and any prior or family history of depression or anxiety are all risk factors for women to develop this very treatable mental health challenge.

Mothers-to-be who are feeling down or anxious should reach out for help and contact Postpartum Support International at www.postpartum.net. Volunteers from around the world and in every state in the U.S. can connect women and their families to therapists, psychiatrists, doulas, lactation consultants, and support groups. Women also can receive comfort and resources by reading Postpartum Progress at www.postpartumprogress.com. Some of the most helpful books I have recommended to my own clients in relation to depression and anxiety during pregnancy are the following:

Pregnancy Blues: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Depression During Pregnancy, by Shaila Misri, MD (2006)

Pregnant on Prozac: The Essential Guide to Making the Best Decision for You and Your Baby, by Shoshana Bennett, PhD (2008)

Beyond the Blues: Prenatal and Postpartum Depression: A Treatment Manual, by Shoshana Bennett and Pec Indman (2011 edition)

The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook: Practical Skills to Help You Overcome Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Obsessions, and Compulsions, by Pamela Wiegartz (2009)

The good news is that such challenges are treatable, and a woman can expect to recover with swift treatment and minimal disruption to her well-being and that of her family, but prompt treatment (psychotherapy, social supports, self-care plan, and in some cases, medication management) is vital. Negative outcomes should a woman not seek treatment include pregnancy complications (constriction of blood flow to fetus can occur, as well as premature delivery) and a continuous episode of anxiety/depression that spans out past pregnancy into the critical first year of the baby’s life; complications are deleterious without intervention and can impact maternal-child bonding as well as impair child development. Therefore, screening at regular intervals (each trimester and throughout the first year postpartum) are key in preventing/treating perinatal challenges. Should a woman feel like she is experiencing anxiety or depression, she needs to know it’s not her fault and her complication can be remedied with prompt interventions by skilled, trained perinatal practitioners. Relief will occur with proper treatment, and women can move on to enjoy and embrace the miracle of mothering.

Source: http://www.goodtherapy.org/

HAIR LOSS DURING PREGNANCY - Causes and How to Prevent Hair Loss

BY ADMIN ON JANUARY 19, 2011

Hair loss during pregnancy is relatively common and should not cause excessive anxiety.  The hair loss may aggravate after delivery, and persist for a few months. The hair loss is temporary, and will be replaced within 6 to 12 months.

Is Hair Loss During Pregnancy Normal?

• Even as some women have healthy hair during pregnancy, some complain of extreme hair loss.
• Pregnancy-related hair fall is due to fluctuating hormones and is perfectly normal.

Causes Hair Loss During Pregnancy

The primary cause is hormonal fluctuations, especially, fluctuating estrogen level. Another important cause is dietary errors and deficiencies.

How to Prevent Hair Loss During Pregnancy

• Vitamin and mineral supplements may be prescribed by your physician.
• Stress plays a pivotal role in general health and well being. It can actually increase the severity of hair fall. Practice de-stressing techniques daily.
• Follow a nutritious and well balanced diet. Consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, legumes, milk and whole grains.
• Step up the intake of the following foods: soy, tofu, soy milk, kidney beans, milk, cottage cheese, carrots, and limes. They are dubbed as hair foods.
  They promote hair growth, check hair fall and nourish the roots and scalp.
• Avoid washing your hair frequently.
• Avoid over-styling the hair. Steer clear of tight pigtails, hair weaves, tight hair rollers and braids; they tend to pull and stress the hair roots and scalp.
• Consult your gynecologist to guarantee a balance of hormones.
• Use shampoos and conditioners comprising of biotin and silica.

Source: http://www.simple-remedies.com/

PREGNANCY TIPS - 17 Things No One Ever Tells You About Being Pregnant

17 Things No One Ever Tells You About Being Pregnant

The hilarious, horrifying, and just plain weird things that you probably won’t read in all those pregnancy books

PUBLISHED: JULY 17, 2014  |  BY ASHLEY OERMAN

Pregnancy is pretty amazing. You’re creating a mini human who will probably look like a tiny, chubby, bald version of you and your partner. Plus, you’re going to love this small fry for the rest of his or her life. What could be better? But before you get to snuggle your brand new baby, you’ve got about nine months of quality time with that bump. And while your mother, grandmother, aunts, and friends may have given you amazing advice and some free baby gear (score!), there are a few things they might have left out.

So we asked real women for advice, truths, and important lessons that they really wish they knew before they got pregnant:

“You will suddenly notice every other pregnant person around you.” —Margaret C.

“You could have some crazy dreams. Keep a dream journal because they will be so wacky that when you read it later it might sound like an LSD trip.” —Jenn Y.

“People lied to me and said don’t worry about how much you eat, you’ll lose it straight after birth. Lies, all lies!” —Jay P.

“You might not have morning sickness, painful labor, fatigue, or discomfort.” —Amanda M.

“You lose things. Once I lost the potato I had just mashed for dinner, found it the next day still in the saucepan, lid on, in the saucepan cupboard.” —Natasha H.

“Do not sneeze in your third trimester or you will pee your pants.” —Jennifer W.

“Being pregnant means that every woman in sight automatically thinks it’s OK to touch your tummy.” —Sally B.

“You might get home from the office and close your eyes for a second only to wake up the next morning.” —Merry A.

“The baby could hiccup four or more times a day in your belly. You will notice. And when baby stops moving and you start panicking, drink something very cold, baby will move like never before.” —Begi L.

“It feels a little weird to not be pregnant after having the baby.” —Lauren H.

“You might not have any cravings like everyone said you would. I actually wanted to eat the grilled chicken and broccoli and not the chicken fingers and fries.” —Donna N.

“You can crave smells as well as foods.” —Deirdre M.

“Take so many notes and pictures for the memories later. You’ll love going back and seeing the pictures and re-reading all the stories.” —Jenn P.

“For the entire second trimester, you are stuck in the limbo stage of looking 'almost pregnant' Nobody will offer you a seat or hold a door for you because they aren't quite sure if you're pregnant or not.” —Andrea R.

“That your tummy actually gets in the way to a point where you could burn it while baking and preparing food on the stove.”  —Jeanette U.

“Gas, gas, and more gas.” —Lauren B.

“Your lady parts will not look the same until after the pregnancy.” —Crystal G.

Source: http://www.womenshealthmag.com

MISCARRIAGE - Signs, Symptoms & Causes

By Elaine J. Hom, Live Science Contributor   |   April 07, 2014 05:10pm ET

A miscarriage is the loss of pregnancy before the 20-week mark in the pregnancy. Because the embryo or fetus cannot live on its own that early in the pregnancy, the pregnancy is aborted. The medical term for a miscarriage is spontaneous abortion.

Many people don't realize that miscarriages are fairly common. Ten to 25 percent of clinically recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage. This generally happens early on, in the first three months. It's an emotional and difficult event for any person involved.

A miscarriage that occurs very soon after implantation, resulting in bleeding that occurs around the time of a woman's expected period, is called a chemical pregnancy. Many women who undergo chemical pregnancies don't realize they even conceived and miscarried. This often occurs around the fifth week of pregnancy, before anything can be seen on an ultrasound.

What causes miscarriages?

Miscarriages can be caused by a number of things, including invasive prenatal tests like chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis. Many women tend to blame themselves for a miscarriage. But it's rarely the fault of the woman. The only behavioral risks that can increase miscarriage are smoking, heavy alcohol use, illicit drug abuse and heavy caffeine use. Nicotine can cross the placenta and interfere with blood supply and fetal growth rate, causing smokers to have twice the rate of miscarriage as nonsmokers. Drinking more than two alcoholic beverages a day is also linked to miscarriage. Contrary to what some believe, sex, exercise, medications, or minor trauma do not cause miscarriages.

However, severe trauma can increase the risk of miscarriages, as well as serious infections. The embryo or fetus may also have a chromosome that causes it to develop abnormally, leading to a miscarriage. This can include a blighted ovum, when no embryo develops; intrauterine fetal demise, when the embryo stops developing; or a molar pregnancy, a noncancerous tumor that develops in the fetus. This is not a sign of chromosomal problems in future pregnancies, however. It tends to happen by sheer chance at the point when the fertilized egg divides and continues to grow. This causes at least 60 percent of all miscarriages, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

The condition of a woman's uterus and cervix play a large role in the development of the fetus. An abnormally shaped uterus, or uterine septum, can cause a miscarriage because the embryo can't implant or receive the nourishment it needs to survive. A weakened or incompetent cervix can't hold a fetus in, which can also lead to miscarriages, often later in the pregnancy.

Other risk factors for miscarriage include a woman's age and health — the older a woman is, the higher the risk of miscarriage. Severe chronic illnesses, like uncontrolled diabetes, immunologic diseases, or thyroid disease, can also increase the risk. A woman's weight also plays a role — underweight or overweight women are more likely to miscarry than other women. Those women who have had two or more miscarriages in a row may also be more prone to have future miscarriages.

Signs and symptoms

Common signs of a miscarriage include vaginal spotting or bleeding, dull lower backache or pressure, severe abdominal pain or cramping, and/or fluid or tissue being discharged from the vagina. These symptoms also apply to less serious conditions, but Planned Parenthood recommends consulting with your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms. The Mayo Clinic recommends placing any discharged tissue in a clean container to your doctor for follow up tests.

Septic miscarriages can be caused by uterine infections. These have the added symptoms of fever, chills, lower abdominal tenderness, and a foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

Preventing miscarriage

Because miscarriage is often due to chromosomal abnormalities and outside of the woman's control, there aren't many ways to prevent it. The best that you can do is to keep your body as healthy as possible and limit any environmental factors, such as exposure to chemicals or radiation. It's important to eat healthy, keep at a healthy weight, exercise regularly, take folic acid, and live a healthy lifestyle without alcohol, cigarettes, or illicit drugs.

Chances of a miscarriage

Age plays a major factor in the chances of miscarriage. Women under the age of 35 have a 15 percent chance of miscarriage, while women between 35 and 45 have a 20 to 35 percent chance. Women past the age of 45 have a 50 percent chance of miscarriage. For women who have already had a miscarriage, they have a 25 percent chance of having another.

Treating miscarriage

After a miscarriage, the main goal of treatment is to avoid hemorrhaging and infections. The earlier in the pregnancy, the more likely it is that the woman will not need any further medical attention, as the body is likely to expel all of the fetal tissue on its own. If this does not happen, the doctor may need to perform a dilation and curettage, known as a D&C. Drugs may be prescribed to help with the bleeding, which needs to be monitored at home. The American Pregnancy Association recommends calling your healthcare provider if you notice any increases in bleeding or chills and fever.

It's also important to consider the mental toll that miscarriage can take on a person. Emotional recovery can be a long and difficult road. Keep lines of communication open with your loved ones, healthcare provider, and consider a support group or resources like MEND or A Place to Remember.

Source: http://www.livescience.com

LABOR PAIN - Is the Baby Coming? | Signs of Labor

By Elaine J. Hom, Live Science Contributor   |   April 02, 2014 04:13am ET

Every labor story is different. What one woman experiences can vary quite a bit from another woman, but there are definitely signs that can let you know if you are in the early stages of labor. Your body will begin to change weeks before the baby is due to arrive. A few subtle changes will begin to occur, signifying to you to prepare for the arrival of the baby.

If you are far along in your pregnancy, you may have noticed difficulty breathing. This is because the baby's pressure on your diaphragm causes you to be out of breath. But if you can suddenly breathe again, this means the baby has settled deeper into your pelvis and is preparing to make its arrival soon. Though the lowering of the baby makes it easier for you to breathe, you may notice increased pressure on your bladder, causing more trips to the bathroom. It may even change your pregnancy appearance.

Urge to nest

Some women feel an urge to "nest" in the days before they go into labor. Pregnancy is generally exhausting, but the nesting urge brings a new wave of energy. You may suddenly feel motivated to rearrange furniture, go shopping, make lists, and other productive tasks. But remember that you're going to have a baby soon, so conserve your energy and don't overdo it.

Your body will begin to show other physical changes in the last month of pregnancy. The cervix will begin to stretch and thin, showing that the lower portion of the uterus is getting prepared for the delivery process. A thin cervix allows for the cervix to dilate more efficiently and easily, so this effacement stage is a sure sign of upcoming delivery. Your doctor can check for this up to two months before the delivery date, and the effacement statistics are generally given in percentages. For a vaginal delivery to begin, a woman's cervix must be 100 percent effaced.

A bloody show, or the expulsion of the mucus plug, can show up days, hours, or even minutes before a woman goes into labor. However, this usually happens between two and six weeks before giving birth. This mucus plug is created by your body to protect the cervical opening from bacteria entering the uterus, keeping the baby safe. As the effacement process begins, the plug is expelled as a clear, pink, or bloody tinged mucus or discharge. However, heavy bloody discharge can be a sign of a problem — the Mayo Clinic recommends contacting your healthcare provider if this occurs.

'My water broke!'

Though the movies often show a dramatic surge of fluid as a woman's water breaks and goes into labor, this actually only happens to about one in 10 women. This usually happens at home, often in bed. The amniotic fluid should not be confused with leaked urine, which is also a common symptom of pregnancy. The fluid is clear and odorless — if you determine the fluid to be amniotic fluid, then you should contact your healthcare provider. The quality of the fluid is also important – if the discharge is green or foul smelling, this can be a sign of infection. 90 percent of women begin labor within 24 hours after their water breaks.

The cervix will begin to dilate as it opens in preparation for the labor process. Dilation is measured in centimeters, and a fully dilated cervix is 10 cm (about 4 inches). Your healthcare provider will be able to tell you how dilated your cervix is, and when it's time to prepare for childbirth. It is common for the cervix to begin dilation two weeks before active labor begins, often at one to two centimeters. The beginning of the dilation process usually indicates that the baby will arrive in a few weeks.

Contractions

The most common indication of labor is regular uterine contractions. As they begin, record the exact time contractions begin and how long they last. They often feel like a lower backache that comes and goes, similar to menstrual cramps. In the early part of the labor process, contractions can be as far apart as 20 to 30 minutes. As the process continues, contractions generally occur at shorter and shorter intervals. At five minutes apart, the American Pregnancy Association recommends calling your healthcare provider.

Labor contractions should not be confused with Braxton Hicks contractions. These can begin as early as the second trimester, and are often referred to as "practice contractions." The muscles of the uterus tighten for about a minute and allow women to practice breathing exercises. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, infrequent, and unpredictable. They don't generally increase in intensity or frequency.

Conversely, labor contractions are regular and predictable. They become progressively closer, longer, and stronger, and are on more of a schedule. They are often accompanied by a bloody show, and the cervical changes will be marked by your healthcare provider. Labor contractions are the surest sign of labor, but there is always the possibility of a false alarm.

Source: http://www.livescience.com

PREGNANCY CARE - Pregnancy Diet and Nutrition | What to Eat, What Not to Eat

By Elaine J. Hom, Live Science Contributor   |   April 23, 2014 10:54pm ET


There's a reason they say you're "eating for two" when you're pregnant. In addition to the nutrients that your body usually needs, you now have a baby growing inside of you who is relying on you to provide what it needs to thrive and develop. The best way to ensure this is with a healthy diet that is balanced with the minerals and nutrients that the baby needs.

Misconceptions about diet

Your body is going to undergo a number of changes, including increasing blood volume, a growing uterus and lactation. These changes require energy, and that must come in an extra 300 calories a day during the second and third trimesters. They should not be junk or empty calories, however. It's important to eat a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, proteins and whole grains.

Just because you are eating for two does not mean you get to double your caloric intake or eat whatever you want. You will have cravings, but this is not, as many believe, your body letting you know what it needs. Pregnant women crave all sorts of foods and combinations (ice cream and pickles, anyone?), and this has little to do with what your body needs.

Some people believe that the less weight you gain during the pregnancy, the easier labor will be. This is not only untrue, but places the baby in serious danger. Mothers must gain enough weight during pregnancy or put their babies at risk for premature birth and the complications that come with it, like lung and heart problems. Aim for gaining two to four pounds total during the first trimester, then three to four pounds per month in the second and third trimesters.

What you need

Make sure that you are getting enough folate and folic acid. A B vitamin that prevents neural tube defects (like spina bifida), folate (or its synthetic form, folic acid) can be found in supplements or fortified foods. Roughly 600 to 800 mg per day before conception and throughout pregnancy can decrease the risk of premature birth as well. You can find folic acid in fortified cereals, or the naturally occurring folate is also found in leafy greens, citrus fruits, and legumes.

Calcium is important for strong bone and teeth, and helps the circulatory system run normally. It also has positive benefits to the muscular and nervous systems and helps regulate the body's fluids. Pregnant women should aim for 1,000 mg a day, while pregnant teens need to aim for 1,300 mg a day. To get calcium, consume dairy products, like milk or yogurt, or vegetables like broccoli or kale. Calcium is also in fortified cereals and many fruit juices. With some of the same benefits as calcium, vitamin D helps build the baby's bones and teeth. Aim for 600 IU per day, either through a supplement, fatty fish or fortified milk/juices.

As mentioned earlier, your blood volume increases to help the baby make a blood supply. This means your body needs iron, which makes hemoglobin. Iron deficiencies can cause fatigue, increase the risk for premature labor and low birth weight, plus make you more susceptible to infections. Make sure you get at least 27 mg a day, through sources like lean meats, fortified cereals, beans, or spinach.

In the second and third trimester, protein becomes more important. Protein is vital to help your breast and uterine tissue grow during pregnancy, as well as helping with the increased blood supply. It is necessary for the growth of the baby, including fetal brain tissue, and you'll need to take in between 75 and 100 grams per day. The good thing is that there are many protein sources, like lean meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. For vegetarians, legumes, tofu, and dairy products are a great source of protein.

Vitamin C is crucial for the immune system's ability to heal, tooth and bone development, and metabolic processes. Aim for 85 mg a day through citrus fruit or juices, as well as other types of fruit.

The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting with your health care provider before taking any supplements. Your doctor can help you find the right prenatal vitamin for you, depending on your needs.

What not to eat

Pregnancy affects your immune system, making you and the baby more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Because you don't want to endanger the baby, you should try to avoid the following foods:

• Soft cheeses from unpasteurized milk may contain E. coli or listeria. Eat hard cheeses instead, or cheese made from pasteurized milk
• Raw cake batter or cookie dough may contain salmonella. No matter how tempting it is, don't lick the bowl!
• Alcohol should not be consumed by pregnant women or those trying to conceive. This can cause behavioral and developmental problems for the baby, even just moderate drinking. Heavy drinking can cause serious problems, such as malformation.
• Fish with high levels of mercury, such as shark, swordfish, mackerel or tuna. You can instead consume up to 12 ounces a week of fish and shellfish low in mercury, such as salmon, catfish and shrimp.
• Raw or undercooked fish, such as sushi, may contain any number of parasites or bacteria that could harm you and the baby. Fish should be cooked to 145 degrees, and be low in mercury. Raw shellfish, such as oysters or clams on the half shell, can contain vibrio bacteria. These should also be cooked to 145 degrees.
• Anything unpasteurized that should be, such as juice, cider or milk. These may contain E. coli or other bacteria. If drinking fresh-squeezed juice, bring it to a rolling boil for at least a minute before drinking.
• Processed meats, such as deli meats or hot dogs, may contain listeria. Even if the meat is precooked, make sure it is properly reheated to at least 165 degrees.

Use common sense when eating food. If you cannot verify its source or the safety of its preparation, it's not worth the risk. When in doubt, don't eat it.

Source: http://www.livescience.com

PREGNANCY - Having a Baby | Stages of Pregnancy

By Elaine J. Hom, Live Science Contributor   |   April 17, 2014 03:36am ET

Having a baby is a joyous and wonderful experience, but many people don't understand the stages of pregnancy or know what to expect with each one. Human pregnancy generally lasts for 40 weeks and is divided into three stages, or trimesters. Let's start with understanding what happens at conception.

Conception and implantation

Every month inside a woman's ovaries, eggs begin to grow in follicles, which are small fluid sacs. During ovulation, which generally happens two weeks before a period, one of the eggs will erupt from the follicle and the egg is released. The follicle then develops into the corpus luteum, which releases a hormone that thickens the uterine lining in preparation for fertilization.

The egg travels into the fallopian tube, where it sits for about a day, waiting for a sperm to fertilize it. If sperm is not present for fertilization, the egg moves through the uterus and disintegrates, the thick uterine lining is shed, and the period begins. But if a sperm is present, the egg fertilizes and changes its properties so that no other sperm can enter. At this point, the egg becomes an embryo, and its genes and sex are set — two X chromosomes denote a girl and an X chromosome and a Y chromosome denote a boy.

After conception, implantation begins. The embryo stays in the fallopian tube for anywhere from three to four days, and as it moves toward the uterus, the cells begin to divide and develop. Once it reaches the uterus, the embryo attaches or "implants" to the lining of the uterus. This can cause spotting or light bleeding for a couple of days for the woman. At this time, the uterine lining thickens, and the cervix is sealed by a mucus plug, which will stay in place until birth.

Through the first week, levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) will begin to rise, created by the cells that become the placenta. As pregnancy progresses, hCG increases and can be detected more easily, either via blood or urine tests. For home pregnancy tests, this is usually around three to four weeks into the pregnancy. At the same time, the cells start to grow as clumps, forming the baby's first nerve cells.

First trimester

From week 1 to week 12, the hormonal changes begin and start to affect pretty much every organ in the body. Symptoms include tiredness, swollen breasts, upset stomach or nausea, food cravings, mood swings, and headaches. Weight gain or loss may begin at this point as well.

These symptoms will require changes to your daily routine. Consider going to bed earlier, or eating frequent and small meals. You can also talk to your doctor about suggestions for combating your symptoms — you don't want to take any medication or supplements without first consulting a healthcare provider.

As the pregnancy progresses, many of these discomforts will pass. Some women may not even experience any of the negative symptoms associated with the first trimester. It's important to remember that every pregnancy is different.

Within the first trimester, there are a number of developments occurring with the embryo. At four weeks, the brain and spinal cord have begun to form, as well as the heart and limb buds. The embryo is now about 1/25 of an inch (1 millimeter) long. By eight weeks, the major organs and body structure have begun to form, and the heartbeat is at a regular rhythm. Sex organs begin to form, and the face begins to take shape as well. After eight weeks, the embryo, now called a fetus, is nearly an inch (2.5 centimeters) long.

At 12 weeks, the fetus begins to use nerves and muscles together, like making a fist. The external sex organs are almost developed, and eyelids close to protect the eyes. At 3 inches long, the fetus weighs almost an ounce.

Second trimester

Weeks 13-28 are often easier on women than the first 1-12, often referred to as the "golden period" of pregnancy. The nausea and fatigue may begin to go away, but physical changes will become more apparent. The abdomen will begin to expand, and the back, abdomen or thighs may begin to ache. Stretch marks will become more apparent as the areas expand, and skin may begin to darken on the face and nipples. On the face, this is often referred to as the mask of pregnancy.

Some more alarming symptoms may include numb or tingling hands, caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. The abdomen, palms or soles of the feet may begin to itch, and the ankles, fingers and face may begin to swell. However, if the itching is combined with nausea or jaundice, the FDA's Office of Women's Health recommends contacting a doctor immediately, as this could be a sign of liver disease. Sudden or extreme swelling also warrants a call to the doctor, as this could be a sign of preeclampsia.

At 16 weeks, the fetus' skeleton begins to form, as well as skin. Four weeks later, defining hair features such as eyebrows and eyelashes begin to form, and the fetus can now hear and swallow. Before this trimester is over, the fetus, now up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and weighing about one and a half pounds (680 grams), will begin to move inside the womb. Sex organs will develop by the 24th week, and bone marrow begins to develop inside the bones.

Third trimester

Weeks 29-40 of pregnancy may include many of the second trimester symptoms, plus breathing problems and frequent urination. As the fetus grows, it puts more and more pressure on the mother's organs. Additional symptoms include hemorrhoids, leaking tender breasts, belly button sticking out, and false labor pains. The fetus may move lower in the abdomen, and also turn into a head-down position for birth. The cervix begins the effacing process to become thinner and softer, helping the birth canal open during the birthing process. As the due date nears, the doctor should be checking this progress with vaginal exams.

At 32 weeks, the fetus' bones are finally fully formed, but are still soft. You may notice some forceful jabs and kicks. The fetus' senses will start to heighten, including opening and closing eyes. At this point, he or she will gain more weight per week and will be around 16 inches (40 cm) long and roughly 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms).

By the end of the 37th week, the fetus' organs can function on their own, and he or she is considered full-term. Most fetuses at this point will fall between 19 and 21 inches (48 to 54 cm) and weigh between 6 and 9 pounds (2.7 to 4 kg), but a healthy baby can come in many different sizes. Infants delivered before 37 weeks are considered premature, and may have difficulties breathing or digesting. Development and growth may also be stunted.

Source: http://www.livescience.com