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Thursday, July 20, 2006

Third trimester of pregnancy ( IV )

• Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are varicose veins in the rectum. Although they may occur at any time during pregnancy, they are most common during the third trimester due to the increased pressure of the growing fetus on the veins in the rectum. Constipation may also contribute to their development. Hemorrhoids can cause itching, soreness and bleeding. Women may benefit from drinking a large amount of fluids, increasing fiber consumption and eating whole grains, fruits and leafy green vegetables. Women should also avoid straining during bowel movements.

• Stretch marks. Stretch marks are red, pink, or purple streaks in the skin caused by the stretching of the skin. These scars, which usually appear over the thighs, buttocks, abdomen and breasts, most often develop in the second half of pregnancy. According to the National Women’s Health Information Center, approximately half of all pregnant women get stretch marks. Following delivery, most stretch marks fade to light lines.

• Rashes. During late pregnancy, some women may develop itchy red bumps on the abdomen. Although they are harmless, these bumps can spread to the buttocks, arms and legs, causing discomfort. The rash normally disappears following delivery.

By the 26th week of pregnancy, the fetus is about 13 inches (330 millimeters) long and weighs approximately 1 ¾ pounds (794 grams). It will continue to grow and move, however, activity may be decreased due to the fact that the fetus now has less room. During this trimester, the expectant mother’s body will begin preparing for labor and delivery and the fetus will start moving down into the birthing position. As a result, the woman may notice the fetus moving down (dropping or a process called lightening) in the abdomen. By the end of the trimester, the average fetus is about 20 inches (508 millimeters) long and weighs about 7 pounds (3 kilograms).

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Third trimester of pregnancy ( III )

• Increased perspiration. Pregnant women often experience increased perspiration. This is the result of growth and movement by the fetus. During hot weather, pregnant women may benefit from resting, drinking cold liquids and taking cool showers. This can prevent overheating.

• Shortness of breath. Pregnant women may experience shortness of breath, as the result of the uterus expanding beneath the diaphragm (the muscle below the lungs). Patients may benefit from taking long, deep breaths. Maintaining good posture is also beneficial because it gives the lungs room to expand. At night, women are encouraged to use an extra pillow or sleep on their left side. Pregnant women should contact their ObGyn when they experience shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain or a cough.

• Continued breast growth. Most women experience breast growth throughout pregnancy. During the late stages of pregnancy, hormones cause the breasts to grow even larger in preparation for breastfeeding. By the third trimester, a woman may have an additional one to three pounds (1.4 kilograms) of breast tissue. This may result in tenderness and discomfort. Women may benefit from wearing a more supportive bra, such as a nursing or maternity bra.

• Changes in skin color. During the second half of pregnancy, hormonal changes may cause the skin to darken. Some woman may develop darker nipples or a dark line running from the naval to the pubic hairline (linea nigra). Pregnancy may also cause blotchy brown pigmentations to appear on the nose, forehead or cheeks. They may also appear over the eyes. Known as melasma or chloasma (mask of pregnancy), these changes are particularly common among women with dark hair and pale skin. Most of these skin changes fade or disappear following delivery.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Third trimester of pregnancy ( II )

• Swelling. The body produces and retains additional fluid during pregnancy. As a result, many woman experience slight swelling. It is especially common in the last few months of pregnancy. Swelling most often occurs in the legs, feet and ankles, but also may occur in the hands and face. Pressure from the uterus on the veins that return blood from the feet and legs may also cause swelling in the feet and legs. Swelling may be more severe in warmer seasons or climates.

Women may benefit from drinking fluids and placing a cold compress on affected areas. Patients with swollen legs or ankles may benefit from wearing a larger shoe size and resting whenever possible with their feet elevated. Women experiencing sudden or extreme swelling of the feet, ankles, hands and face, or sudden weight gain, should immediately contact their ObGyn. It may be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.

• Aches and pains. Expansion of the uterus and the abdomen may cause pains in the abdomen, groin or thighs. Pressure from the fetus’s head, increased weight and loosening joints can also cause backaches or aching near the pelvic bone. Backaches may also result from strain on the muscles that support the spine. Women may benefit from lying down, resting, sitting in chairs with good back support and applying heating pads or ice packs to the affected area. In addition, some gentle stretching of the muscles or massage may help ease the discomfort.

Women should contact their ObGyn when pains do not improve after resting or when back pain is accompanied by fever (a sign of infection and other complications). Physicians should also be immediately notified when a patient experiences moderate or severe pelvic pain or any degree of pelvic pain that lasts more than four hours.

Saturday, July 15, 2006

Third trimester of pregnancy ( I )

• Hair changes. Pregnancy can cause changes in the texture and growth rate of hair. In many cases, pregnant women develop thicker hair during pregnancy. This is the result of hormones causing hair to grow faster and fall out less. Others notice that their hair changes color, or that it is drier or oilier than normal. In addition, some women grow hair in unwanted places, such as the face, abdomen and around the nipple. These changes usually disappear after delivery.

• Spider veins. The increased blood circulation during pregnancy can lead to the development of small reddish spots on the face, neck, upper chest or arms. These spots are commonly referred to as spider veins because they appear to sprout tiny blood vessels that resemble the legs of spiders. These marks, which are especially common among women with fair skin, usually fade or disappear after delivery.

• In addition, changes in hormone levels may slow the digestion process and relax the muscles that keep the stomach acids in the proper place. As a result, stomach acids reflux, causing a burning sensation in the throat and chest. Women may benefit from avoiding spicy, fried or fatty foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals. In addition, remaining upright for a period of time following a meal may decrease the heartburn and reflux. Women should contact their obstetrician–gynecologist (ObGyn) when they experience severe or persistent heartburn that does not respond to these treatments.

• Varicose veins. During pregnancy, pressure is placed on the large veins located behind the uterus. This slows the return of blood to the heart and puts pressure on the veins, causing them to swell. As a result, varicose veins may develop. These veins look swollen and cause pain. They may appear to be twisted, bulging and dark purple or blue in color. During pregnancy, varicose veins most often develop on the back of the calves, thighs and vagina. Women may benefit from avoiding long periods of standing, lying on their side and sitting with their legs and feet raised whenever possible.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Third trimester of pregnancy

The third trimester of pregnancy lasts from week 25 to delivery. During this time, many of the discomforts from the second trimester may remain. As the result of a growing fetus placing additional pressure on the maternal organs, existing conditions may worsen and new conditions may develop. In addition, the fetus’s size and position may make it difficult for a woman to get comfortable. Most of these conditions, however, disappear or lessen after delivery. Common changes and symptoms of the second trimester include:
- Expanding abdomen. The uterus is continuing to enlarge. By the 36th week of pregnancy, the uterus extends to the lower edge of the rib cage. The expanding abdomen often causes the naval to bulge.

- Changes in nail condition. During pregnancy, hormones can cause nails to grow faster and become stronger. In some women, however, the nails may become more prone to breakage and splitting. These changes usually disappear after delivery.

- Heartburn and indigestion. Heartburn and indigestion are common during pregnancy, even for those who have never experienced these conditions before. Although they can occur at any time during pregnancy, they typically occur during the third trimester. As the fetus grows, it causes the uterus to push on the stomach. This can result in acid reflux (backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus) and heartburn, particularly after a meal.

- Leaking breasts. As the breasts continue to prepare for breastfeeding, an expectant mother may begin to leak colostrum (a type of milk) in the third trimester. Colostrum is an early rich precursor to the normal breast milk that the body produces. Women with leaking breasts may benefit from placing disposable or cloth nursing pads in their bras.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Second trimester of pregnancy

• Vaginal discharge. Pregnant women may produce a thin, white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea). Consisting of cells from the vaginal lining and normal vaginal moisture, this type of discharge is not a cause for concern although the amount may be greater than before pregnancy. Women, however, should contact their ObGyn if they produce a strong-smelling green or yellowish vaginal discharge or any vaginal discharge accompanied by redness, itching or irritation. These symptoms may indicate a vaginal infection.

• Glowing skin. Pregnant women may experience a “healthy glow” resulting from the increase of blood circulation.

• Dizziness. A woman may experience dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting at any time during her pregnancy. These symptoms may be especially noticeable early in the second trimester. This is due to the additional blood heading toward the uterus and legs and the dilation of blood vessels in response to hormones. Occasional dizziness may occur until the volume of blood expands to fill the vessels. Women may benefit from avoiding prolonged standing, lying on their left side (to relieve pressure on blood vessels) and rising slowly after sitting or lying down. In addition, women should avoid sitting or standing in one position for an extended period of time.

• Nasal problems. During pregnancy, the lining of the nose and airway may swell as more blood flows to the mucus membranes. This can result in restricted airflow. In addition, hormones affect the tissues of the throat, mouth and nose. As a result, pregnant women may experience snoring, congestion and nosebleeds. Women may benefit from drinking water, sleeping on their sides and using a cool mist humidifier in their bedroom. Although these conditions are typically harmless, women should contact their ObGyn when nosebleeds occur often or continue longer than a few minutes.

Monday, July 10, 2006

Second trimester of pregnancy

• Tingling. Many woman experience tingling and numbness in the fingers during
pregnancy. This is due to swelling of tissues in the narrow passages in the wrists. These sensations often disappear after delivery.

• Leg and foot cramps. It is common for pregnant women to experience leg cramps during the second and third trimesters. Frequently occurring at night, these cramps may result from the pressure the uterus applies to the veins which return blood from the legs. Changes in circulation and stress on the leg muscles due to carrying additional weight may also be to blame. In addition, cramps may also be due to changes in the way the body metabolizes (processes) calcium. Women may benefit from stretching the affected muscle or walking, and consuming an adequate amount of calcium.

• Braxton Hicks contractions. During the second trimester, the uterus may begin flexing to build up strength. As a result, a woman may feel contractions in her lower abdomen and groin. These contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are usually painless and unpredictable. Women should immediately contact their ObGyn when contractions become painful or regular. This may be a sign of premature labor.

• Itchiness. Many women experience itchiness as their pregnancies progress. This is due to hormones and stretching skin in areas such as the abdomen. Some women also develop itchiness and redness on their palms and the soles of their feet. These symptoms usually vanish after delivery. Women may benefit from moisturizing and using soaps for sensitive skin. In addition, women should avoid taking hot showers or baths, which can cause dryness. Since heat rash can worsen itching, women should also avoid becoming overheated. Women experiencing itching in combination with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) or fatigue should contact their obstetrician-gynecologist (ObGyn) immediately. This may be a sign of cholestasis, a condition that indicates a serious liver disorder.

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Second trimester of pregnancy

The second trimester of pregnancy consists of weeks 13 to 24. Many women consider this trimester to be easier than the first. Although many symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue, begin to disappear, a number of more evident changes will emerge. Common changes and symptoms of the second trimester include:

• Expanding abdomen. As pregnancy progresses, the uterus becomes heavier and expands to create room for the fetus. By the 12th week of pregnancy, the growing uterus may cause a woman’s abdomen to slightly protrude. In addition, women may gain up to 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms) a month until the end of pregnancy. The uterus will continue to enlarge throughout pregnancy as the expectant mother gains weight and the fetus continues to grow. By the 20th week of pregnancy, the expanding uterus will extend to the level of the naval.

• Bleeding gums. The increased blood circulation experienced during pregnancy can cause the gums to soften. As a result, a woman may have minor bleeding when she brushes her teeth or flosses. Pregnant women may benefit from flossing daily and brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush. Women experiencing persistent bleeding from the gums should contact their dentist.

• Continued breast growth. As pregnancy progresses, the breasts begin to prepare for breastfeeding. Estrogen and progesterone stimulate the milk producing glands in the breasts to enlarge. A small amount of fat may also accumulate in the breasts. As a result, there may be as much as 1 pound (454 grams) of breast tissue, and the woman’s bra size may increase up to two cup sizes. The breasts may continue to be tender during this period of the pregnancy. Pregnant women may improve their comfort by wearing proper fitting and supportive bras.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

First trimester of pregnancy ( II )

• Constipation. Constipation may occur throughout pregnancy, but it is often worst in the first 13 to 14 weeks. A number of factors may contribute to constipation during pregnancy, including an increase in the hormone progesterone, which slows the digestive process. Additional pressure on the bowel and increased absorption of water by the colon may also be to blame. The increased amount of required iron found in prenatal vitamins may also contribute to constipation. Women may benefit from drinking eight to ten glasses of water each day and increasing their fiber intake. Pregnant women should contact their ObGyn when they experience constipation leading to more than two days between bowel movements.

• Headaches. Many women experience headaches during pregnancy, especially during the first and third trimesters. Although their cause is uncertain, headaches during early pregnancy are most likely due to changes in hormone levels and increases in blood volume and circulation. Headaches experienced during the third trimester may be the result of carrying extra weight. Women experiencing a severe persistent headache should contact their physician immediately, especially when dizziness, faintness, nausea or vomiting are also present.

• Acne. Elevated hormone levels can cause glands to secrete more oil. As a result, acne may develop or worsen. Some women, however, experience an improvement in their acne.There are many developments of the fetus during early pregnancy, and by the end of the first trimester the fetus is about 3 inches (76 millimeters) long and weighs about half an ounce (14 grams). The eyes and ears move into their correct positions and the kidneys begin to secrete urine into the bladder. Although an expectant mother is unable to feel the baby move at this point, it does begin to move in response to pushing on the abdomen.

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

First trimester of pregnancy ( I )

• Fatigue. Many women feel exhausted during the first trimester, regardless of how much sleep they are getting at night. This is the result of the body producing additional blood, releasing hormones and preparing to support the pregnancy. During this time women should rest as often as possible. Expectant mothers should try to get around eight hours of sleep a night and nap during the day. During the second trimester fatigue is generally replaced by feelings of increased energy, however, fatigue may return during the third trimester as the body carries the additional weight of the fetus.

• Tender and enlarged breasts. An increase in breast size is another early sign of pregnancy. Breasts usually become swollen and enlarged during early pregnancy as the result of increased levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. The breasts may continue to grow throughout pregnancy. Pregnancy may also cause the breasts to become more sensitive. Women may benefit from wearing a more supportive bra.

• Mood swings. Pregnancy may cause extreme changes in mood in some women. Moods may range from excitement and happiness to irritation and depression. Mood swings may occur at any time during pregnancy but are common in the first trimester and in the weeks before delivery. They may be caused by hormonal changes, anxiety or discomfort. Women experiencing mood swings may benefit from eating fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, getting plenty of sleep, and using relaxation techniques such as meditation.

• Sleeplessness. Most women have trouble sleeping at some point during their pregnancy. This may include difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night and difficulty returning to sleep once awakened. During the first trimester, the same hormones responsible for fatigue can cause lack of sleep at night. Sleeplessness may also appear in the later stages of pregnancy, as an enlarged abdomen makes finding a comfortable sleeping position difficult. Feelings of anxiety and stress may also contribute.