Wednesday 20 August 2008

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Ups and Downs When Having a Baby


This huge event begins a whole new chapter in your life. It is always good to know about the health of your reproductive system and getting pregnancy basics, before you plan a child. The best thing about being pregnant is the fact that you will bring your child into this world and nothing can be a better experience than that.

Most Private Health funds require you have appropriate cover for at least 12 months prior to your baby being born. Most will also cover your baby if he / she is to be admitted for any reason during this time, however some funds have exceptions and limits so it's important to check with them first.

Calendar method: This involves keeping a written record of each menstrual cycle on a calendar. The first day of your period is Day 1. Circle Day 1 on the calendar. Do this for eight to 12 months so you know how many days are in your cycle. Lack of energy and fatigue is also one of the common early signs of pregnancy as well as frequent urination.

While morning sickness is one of the early signs of pregnancy that generally goes away after the first trimester, there are women who experience morning sickness during their entire pregnancies. Heartburn is a burning feeling in the middle of the chest that extends up towards the back of the throat. It is caused by acid that moves from the stomach back up the esophagus. This happens because hormonal changes during pregnancy relax stomach muscles, and because as the baby grows, more pressure is put on the stomach. Morning sickness is said to be brought on by changes in a pregnant woman's hormones.

In the third trimester, some pregnant women begin to leak colostrum from their breasts. Colostrum is the first milk that your breasts produce for the baby. It is a thick, yellowish fluid containing antibodies that protect newborns from infection. During pregnancy there is a huge increase in the amount of blood in the body. This can cause veins to enlarge. Plus, pressure on the large veins behind the uterus causes the blood to slow in its return to the heart.

Omega 3 essential fatty acids are important in pregnancy for your baby's brain, eye and vision development. Oily fish such as mackerel, herrings and sardines are good sources. If you're a vegetarian, try linseed or flax seed oil. Weight gain during pregnancy is variable, but the average weight gain recommended during an entire pregnancy is 10-13kg. The expected rate of weight gain during pregnancy is:

During the first three months (first trimester) - approximately 0-1.5kg weight gain.
Three months to end of pregnancy (second and third trimesters) - approximately 2kg per month weight gain. Your body needs vitamin D to help absorb calcium. It is made naturally in our bodies in response to sunlight. The government's Food Standards Agency recommends that all pregnant women take a supplement of 10mcg of vitamin D daily.

In general, women can choose to deliver at a hospital, birth center or at home. Nowadays, most hospitals and birth centers offer birthing classes like Lamaze and breastfeeding support. If you are considering the homebirth choice you should ask your insurance company about their policy on homebirths. Some health insurance companies cover the cost of care for home births and others don't.

Walking is one of the best exercises around - and it doesn't even require special equipment. All you need is a good pair of shoes, fine weather and your baby, of course! Pregnancy and weight gain are like peas and carrots - they go together and it's healthy for you. Therefore, when trying to lose those pregnancy pounds, be sensible and don't entertain extremes: no junk food binges and no celebrity diets.

Pregnant teenagers face many of the same obstetrics issues as women in their 20s and 30s. However, there are additional medical concerns for younger mothers, particularly those under 15 and those living in developing countries. Parents, older family member, and even friends should talk to each other about the risks and consequences that can result from a teen pregnancy.

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About the Author

"Discover the Secrets of Having A Baby" - Is it your first child? Are you Becoming A Parent for the first time? No One Ever Goes Through The Process With Complete Knowledge And Preparation. So Look At This Ebook With Audio education from http://onestopeproducts.com/

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