Pregnancy detection and things to consider for a healthy baby

Introduction

The time during which a fetus grows and develops inside a pregnant woman's uterus is called pregnancy. After ovulation, sperm fertilizes an egg to cause pregnancy—fertilized eggs implant in the uterus. A pregnancy develops after successful implantation.

On average, a pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, or a little over nine months, from the last menstruation cycle until delivery. If you pay attention to your body, you can identify a pregnancy and have a happy pregnancy if you catch the complications listed below.

Signs you might be pregnant

1. Absence of menstruation or a lighter flow

If your period comes every month, missing your period is the best and earliest way to tell if you're pregnant. Early in pregnancy, you can experience spotting or mild bleeding.

2. Tiredness

Pregnancy fatigue is normal, especially in the first 12 weeks. You may feel exhausted, nauseous, emotional, and upset due to hormonal fluctuations.

3. Sore breasts 

Your breasts may swell and hurt, with a tingling sensation before your period. The veins and nipples may darken and become more prominent.

4. Peeing 

Increased urination needs, even during the night, are possible. Constipation and an increase in vaginal discharge are other symptoms of pregnancy.

5. Abnormal sensitivity to scents and sense of taste

You may have a metallic taste in your mouth and seek new meals. You become more sensitive to some aromas, such as the smell of food or cooking.

When to test for pregnancy?

Most pregnancy tests work on the first day of a missed period. Do the test at least 21 days after your last incident of unprotected intercourse if you don't know when your period is due.

A pregnancy test using a urine sample works at any time of the day. Pregnancy test kits are available at local pharmacies and even some supermarkets. 

How exactly does a pregnancy test function?

Human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), a hormone that begins to be produced around six days after fertilization, is detected by all pregnancy tests. Most pregnancy tests are available in boxes with one or two long sticks. 

After urinating on the stick, the result will appear on the bar within a few moments. Always check the directions because all tests are slightly different.

Pregnancy Complications

Some women experience health issues during pregnancy, while others may already be at risk for complications due to preexisting conditions. 

Some of the most typical issues are as follows:

1. Anaemia

Low levels of healthy red blood cells are a sign of anaemia. Treating the underlying cause of anaemia will help restore the number of healthy red blood cells. Vitamin and mineral supplements, such as iron and folic acid, can aid this. 

2. Infections of the Urinary Tract (UTI)

A UTI is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract. The symptoms include urinary tract irritation, fever, exhaustion, dizziness, frequent urination, Stomach pain, Blood in the urine or a strong odour, and backache. 

With just a urine sample, your doctor can diagnose a UTI and cure it with antibiotic treatment in as little as two days. 

3. Issues Related to Mental Health

The symptoms include Loss of enthusiasm for previously enjoyed pursuits, Mood, energy, and hunger swings, a lack of self-confidence, embarrassment, or guilt. Talk to your doctor about a history of depression for an effective treatment strategy.

4. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) 

These mothers are also more likely to experience adverse pregnancy and childbirth outcomes, such as premature birth, low birth weight, and infant mortality. 

5. Diabetes While Expecting

Women with well-managed diabetes are more likely to have successful pregnancies and healthy infants.

6. Overweight and obesity

Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, stillbirth, and caesarean section are only a few of the pregnancy issues related to maternal weight. 

7. Infections

Screening and treatment for these infections, as well as immunizations, are beneficial.

Bottomline

One can confirm a suspected pregnancy by taking a home pregnancy test or visiting a doctor for lab testing. Contact a medical professional and follow up regularly for a seamless pregnancy experience and a healthy baby. 

Let your healthcare team know what you're eating and drinking, and follow their advice on supplementing your diet. 

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Hyderabad - Kondapur. Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment.