Introduction
For some, pregnancy begins after months of tracking ovulation days. For some, it starts unexpectedly. And for others, it begins in a clinic, assisted by fertility experts through treatments like IUI or IVF. No matter how the journey starts, carrying a baby inside you is nothing short of amazing.
Pregnancy brings a mix of physical, mental and emotional changes for the mother. Every pregnancy is unique and so are the symptoms and changes that occur in your body.
Whether you are a first time mom or an experienced mom who has gone through pregnancy before, the journey is never the same. This blog covers everything you need to know to prepare for pregnancy, from knowing when to take a pregnancy test to preparing for labor.
Signs and Symptoms
PMS Vs Pregnancy
PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is a group of symptoms, both emotional and physical, that occurs a few days before the expected period. Studies say that almost 43% of Indian women experience PMS before their period.
Both PMS and early pregnancy have similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two.
To know the difference between symptoms of early pregnancy and PMS, click below.
Very early signs of pregnancy symptoms
Ideally, week 1 of pregnancy is calculated from the first day of your last period. So you are not technically pregnant at 1 week of pregnancy and you won’t have any symptoms. To know what changes your body goes through from week 1 to week 3 of pregnancy, click here to read more.
Typically, the very early signs of pregnancy symptoms start to become noticeable around 4 to 6 weeks of pregnancy for most expectant mothers. Click here to read more about these symptoms.
When to take a pregnancy test?
Healthcare experts recommend taking a home pregnancy test at least a week after their missed period to get accurate results.
Blood test in early pregnancy
To confirm pregnancy, it is important to take a confirmatory blood test also called Beta HCG test.
Pregnancy Scans
Types of scans
Ideally, a pregnant mother with low pregnancy complications would have a minimum of 4 scans. They are:
- Viability scan
- NT scan
- Anomaly scan
- Growth scan
But if the pregnant mother has any specific pregnancy condition or complication, the number of scans might increase to ensure the health of the mother and the baby.
Vital organs supporting baby’s growth and development during pregnancy
- Uterus
- Amniotic sac
- Amniotic fluid
- Placenta
- Umbilical cord
When to start prenatal supplements?
It is recommended to start taking folic acid at least 3 months before planning for pregnancy. Folic acid is a synthetic form of Vitamin B that is crucial to prevent neural tube defects in the baby and helps with the baby’s growth and development.
Ensure to not miss out on any of your prenatal supplements as they are crucial to support baby’s growth and development.
Trimesters of pregnancy
Pregnancy is categorized into three categories:
What to expect during pregnancy?
(a) 10 Gastrointestinal / Digestive Changes during Pregnancy
During pregnancy, there are several digestive or gastrointestinal changes that occur in the body including:
- Nausea / Morning sickness
- Yellow Vomit
- Red vomit
- Heartburn / Acidity / Indigestion
- Gas & bloating
- Food aversions & cravings
- Metallic taste in mouth (dysgeusia)
- Black stool
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
(b) Pain and physical discomfort during pregnancy
Pregnancy is accompanied by several physical changes and discomfort including:
- Back pain
- Abdominal pain / pelvic pain
- Sciatica
- Migraine
- Joint pain
- Leg Swelling
- Varicose veins
- Belly button popping out
(c) Urinary and vaginal changes during pregnancy
A number of urinary and vaginal happen during pregnancy as a result of hormonal changes, growing baby and expanding uterus including:
- Frequent urination
- Urine color
- UTIs
- Incontinence
- Vaginal discharge (white, clear, or brown)
- Brown spotting
- Vaginal swelling
(d) Skin changes during pregnancy
If you are pregnant, you might experience several changes in your skin including:
- Stretch marks
- Itchy skin (especially belly and breasts)
- Darkening skin (melasma)
- Linea Nigra
- Acne/ skin breakouts/ skin tags
(e) Neurological / Sensory changes during pregnancy
Most pregnant mothers experience various neurological and sensory changes as a result of hormonal changes in the body. Te changes include:
- Dizziness / Lightheadedness
- Numbness or tingling
- Heightened sense of smell
(f) Respiratory & Cardiovascular changes during pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is normal to experience some respiratory and cardiovascular changes due to hormonal changes, including
- Shortness of breath
- Nasal congestion
- Increased heart rate / Palpitations
(g) Sleep & Energy during Pregnancy
1. Fatigue/extreme tiredness
Fatigue or extreme tiredness in the body is quite common especially during the first and third trimester of pregnancy. It is due to hormonal changes and increased demand on the body to support the baby’s growth and development.
2. Insomnia / Difficulty sleeping
Difficulty in sleeping or insomnia is yet another common concern for pregnant mothers typically caused due to hormonal changes and discomfort caused by growing belly. If you are unable to sleep even for a few hours, consult with your healthcare provider as sleep is crucial to ensure the growth and development of the baby.
3. Vivid dreams or nightmares
Vivid or realistic and powerful dreams while sleeping is something that usually happens during pregnancy. It can be caused due to factors such as anxiety, stress, and sleep issues. It is recommended to have a proper bedtime routine to fix this condition.
4. Restless leg syndrome / Leg cramps
Restless leg syndrome or the urge to move the legs constantly is a common symptom during pregnancy. It is usually accompanied by leg cramps typically caused due to changes in blood circulation, stress on the legs due to weight gain. Avoid standing or sitting for too long and ensure to keep your legs elevated. You can also try having a warm bath before bed to soothe leg cramps.
(h) Emotional & Mental Discomforts during Pregnancy
1. Mood swings
Mood swings are one of the common symptoms of pregnancy that most expectant mothers experience. It is usually caused due to the hormonal changes that occur in the body during pregnancy. If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to your friends and family about it. You can also go ahead and consult with a counsellor.
2. Mental health
Mental health during pregnancy is as important as physical health during pregnancy. If you are feeling stressed, or anxious, feel free to talk to your doctor or your friends and family. If you are still struggling with your mental health, please contact a counsellor or psychologist.
3. Brain fog / forgetfulness
Brain fog or difficulty in concentrating is another common concern that many pregnant mothers experience. It is due to the hormonal changes in the body and is usually nothing to worry about.
(i) Breast Changes during pregnancy
1. Tenderness & Enlargement
Enlarged breasts are common in pregnancy as the breasts enlarge and change inorder to prepare milk for the baby.
2. Leaking colostrum (early milk)
Leakage of milk or colostrum (first milk) during pregnancy is something that the majority of pregnant mothers experience. This is often caused due to breast tissue expansion and hormonal changes.
3. Darkening of areolas
Darkening of areolas or dark colored skin surrounding the nipple region is due to hormonal changes and it is quite common during pregnancy.
4. Itchiness or tingling
Itching and tingling sensation in the breast region can be caused due to hormonal changes, dry skin and breast growth. If the itching persists, contact your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy – Food Intake
Foods to eat during pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is important to consume healthy, homemade foods to ensure the health of the mother and the growth and development of the baby. It is recommended to eat whole foods including fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. A few of the best foods to eat during pregnancy are:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Dry fruits and nuts
- Pasteurized milk products
- Lean protein
- Pasteurized eggs
It is suggested to stay away from processed, junk, and oily food as much as possible.
Foods to eat when nauseous and pregnant
Nausea and morning sickness is common during pregnancy especially in the first trimester. There are a few foods that can soothe nausea including:
- Banana
- Bread Toast
- Ginger
- Herbal teas such as peppermint tea
- Lemon
- Soups
- Cold foods
- Gooseberry
- Water
Foods to avoid during pregnancy
There are a few foods that pregnant women must completely avoid to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby. These include:
- Alcohol
- High-mercury fish, such as shark and mackerel
- Canned/tinned foods
- Junk food
- High-calorie foods
- Excessive caffeine
- Unpasteurized eggs/milk products
- Uncooked meat and eggs
- Soft cheese
Best fruits during pregnancy
Fruits are a great source of vitamins and minerals during pregnancy. They are also a great snacking option for expectant mothers. There are so many fruits that are considered healthy during pregnancy including:
- Apple
- Orange
- Banana
- Watermelon
- Pomegranate
- Kiwis
- Berries
- Mangoes
- Pear
- Avocado
But it is recommended to consult with your gynecologist before adding any new foods to your diet.
Although most fruits are great for pregnant mothers, healthcare experts recommend avoiding raw papaya as it contains latex and papain leading to uterine contractions.
Nuts and dry fruits during pregnancy
Nuts and dry fruits during pregnancy are super healthy for the expectant mother and the growing baby. They are a great snacking option for pregnant mothers. However, it is important to keep in mind the portions as they are high in fats and calories.
Here is the amount of nuts and dry fruits you can consume during pregnancy
Healthy snacks for pregnant women
Healthy snacks are a great way to keep hunger pangs away especially while you are travelling or working. Here is a list of a few healthy snack options for pregnant mothers including:
- Fruits
- Vegetable salads
- Eggs
- Dry fruits and nuts
- Paneer
- Curd
- Cooked sprouts
Everyday tips to ease discomfort caused by pregnancy symptoms
Oral health during pregnancy
It is crucial to take care of your oral health during pregnancy. This is because, due to the hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, the chances of gingivitis (a form of gum disease) is high. So make sure to consult with your dentist for a routine oral checkup.
Water intake during pregnancy
Drinking enough water is crucial especially during pregnancy in order to ensure the health of both the mother and the fetus. It is recommended to drink a minimum of 2 to 3 litres of water during pregnancy.
It is also important to not chug down a lot of water at once and instead, sip on water throughout the day.
Can I use Indian toilets during pregnancy?
Most pregnant mothers with low pregnancy risks or complications can go ahead and use Indian toilets. But if you have any specific pregnancy conditions and if your doctor has asked to avoid using Indian toilets, please do follow their advice.
Walking during pregnancy
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for pregnant mothers. It is also safe for most pregnant mothers with low risks and complications. However, if you have any specific pregnancy condition and if you are advised to avoid walking, please follow your doctor’s advice. Even if you have low risks and complications, it is still recommended to consult with your doctor before involving in any sort of physical activity during pregnancy.
Climbing stairs during pregnancy
Climbing stairs during pregnancy is mostly okay for those with low pregnancy complications. But if you are someone with a high-risk pregnancy or other complications or if your doctor has advised you to take bed rest, it is important to follow their advice and avoid climbing stairs.
Exercise during pregnancy. Is it safe?
Exercising during pregnancy is a great way to stay active and relieve stress. But if you have conditions such as placenta previa, carrying multiple babies, placental abruption, giddiness, and cervical insufficiency, it is important to avoid exercising.
10 Effective Pregnancy Exercises
- 1. Walking
- 2. Neck and shoulder rotations
- 3. Ankle rotations
- 4. Arm circles
- 5. Sit and stand
- 6. Duck walk
- 7. Butterfly pose
- 8. Cat pose
- 9. Side leg raise
- 10. Malasana
However it is important to consult with your doctor before involving in any sort of exercise or physical activity during pregnancy.
Clothes to avoid during pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is important to avoid wearing tight-fitted, body-hugging and synthetic clothes. Instead, opt for loose and comfortable clothes preferably cotton.
Working during pregnancy
Most pregnant women continue to work during pregnancy. But it is important to ensure that you do not stand for too long as it puts pressure on your legs leading to increased leg swelling and pain.
It is also important to avoid night shifts as much as possible as night sleep is crucial to ensure the growth and development of the baby.
It is recommended to avoid working in industries where you are exposed to chemicals and radiation as they are not safe for the baby.
Sleep during pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is important to get at least 8 to 9 hours of sleep to help with the mother’s mood, energy levels and the baby’s growth and development. But morning sickness and frequent urination make it too difficult to get undisturbed sleep at night.
To get proper sleep at night, here are a few tips you can follow including:
- Getting some exercise in the day
- Have a relaxing night routine
- Limit gadget usage at least an hour or two before bedtime
- Use a pregnancy pillow
If you are still unable to get proper sleep despite following all these tips, consult with your doctor.
Sleeping positions during pregnancy
Finding a comfortable sleeping position during pregnancy is something most pregnant women struggle with. The ideal sleeping position during pregnancy is sleeping on the sides, especially the left side. This is because sleeping in this position enhances blood flow to the placenta and lowers pressure on the uterus.
Intercourse during pregnancy
Whether or not to have intercourse during pregnancy is a common question that most expectant couples have. The answer is, yes you can have intercourse during pregnancy if you do not have any pregnancy complications. But if you have any pregnancy complications or if your doctor has advised you to stay away from having intercourse, please follow their advice.
Smoking during pregnancy
Smoking during pregnancy is a big no. Healthcare experts say that it is essential for a couple to quit smoking a few months before planning for pregnancy. It is also said that second-hand smoking (being exposed to smoke or inhaling the smoke) must also be avoided entirely.
Alcohol during pregnancy
Consuming alcohol during pregnancy must be completely avoided. There is no safe amount of alcohol that is ok during pregnancy. So it is recommended that the couple quit consuming alcohol at least 3 months before planning for pregnancy in order to conceive a healthy baby.
Mistakes to avoid during pregnancy
There are a few mistakes that every pregnant mother must avoid during pregnancy to make sure the baby is safe and her pregnancy progresses well including:
- Drinking alcohol/smoking
- Eating foods that cause indigestion
- Missing out on prenatal appointments
- Consuming too much caffeine
- Using hot tubs
- Ignoring warning signs
- Not getting enough sleep
- Being stressed
- Standing/sitting for too long
- Leaving hospital bag packing to the last minute
- Ignoring doctor visits
Baby movements
When do mothers start to feel baby movements?
Ideally, first-time mothers start to feel baby movements around 18 to 20 weeks. Whereas, experienced mothers start to experience baby movements or quickening from as early as 16 weeks of pregnancy.
Kick count
Kick counting or counting the number of times the baby moves is crucial to monitor the baby’s health.
Ideally, during the third trimester, a baby must kick or flutter at least 10 times in one hour for it to be considered normal.
The baby might be more active after having a meal or after having something sweet and might tend to kick more. If you haven’t felt your baby movements for hours together, there are a few tips you can follow to make the baby move.
- Have a small snack or a sweet treat as babies respond to glucose spike
- Take a small walk or indulge in mild physical activity
- Try talking to your baby or play some music
- Massage your belly gently
- Lay down on your sides
If your baby doesn’t move even after trying out all of these tips, ensure to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Conditions During Pregnancy
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a diabetic condition that develops during pregnancy. For most pregnant mothers, the condition vanishes a few months after delivery. But for some, it might persist after delivery too. It is important to follow a proper diet and medications to keep gestational diabetes under control. This is because, if left untreated, gestational diabetes can lead to high blood pressure, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and increased risk of type-2 diabetes post-delivery.
If you are someone with pre-existing type 1 or type 2 diabetes condition, ensure to consult your doctor about this and plan your medications accordingly.
Hyperthyroidism / Hypothyroidism during pregnancy
Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much of thyroid hormone. If left untreated, it can lead to conditions such as preterm birth, low birth and weight in babies. It is recommended to get proper treatment and medications to keep the condition under control.
Hypothyroidism during pregnancy is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too little amount of thyroid hormone. It can lead to excess weight gain, preeclampsia and hypertension in the mother and can lead to complications in the baby such as preterm birth and low birth weight. It is important to consult your doctor and follow the treatment and medications in order to keep the condition under control.
If you are someone with hypo or hyperthyroid before pregnancy, ensure to consult your doctor about this and plan your medications accordingly.
Gestational hypertension / hypotension
Gestational hypertension is a condition where a pregnant woman experiences high blood pressure during pregnancy. Meaning, the amount of blood pushing through the artery is too high. It usually starts around 20 weeks of pregnancy and subsides after delivery for most expectant mothers.
But if left untreated, gestational hypertension can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, seizure, placental abruption, and low birth weight in the baby. Healthcare experts recommend getting proper treatments and medications to keep gestational hypertension under control.
Decrease in blood pressure during pregnancy is a common term for pregnant mothers and it is called hypotension. But both of these conditions require proper medical treatment as it may lead to potential health complications in the mother and the baby if left untreated.
Mothers with pre-existing high or low pressure issues need to check with their healthcare provider and inform about pregnancy as some blood pressure medications aren’t completely safe during pregnancy.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition where the healthy red blood cell count in the blood is lower than the required amount. It is common during pregnancy. But with proper medications and care, mothers with this condition can give birth to healthy babies.
If you have anemia before pregnancy, it is equally important to consult your doctor and take the necessary supplements and medications to treat the condition as untreated anemia can lead to complications such as preterm labor and low birth weight of the baby.
Hemorrhoids / Piles
Piles or hemorrhoids are caused to increase pressure on the pelvic region during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. In some cases, constipation can aggravate this condition, and keeping yourself hydrated and adding more fiber in your diet can help.
Complications in pregnancy to look out for
A pregnancy is considered high-risk if the mother has one or more of these complications.
- Carrying multiple babies: If a mother is carrying multiple babies such as twins or triplets, has higher pregnancy risks than mothers with a singleton baby. The possible complications include preterm birth, low birth weight of baby, and preeclampsia and Cervical incompetence or opening of cervix
- Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia is a condition during pregnancy where the mother experiences high blood pressure leading to potential health complications for both the mother and the baby.
- Preterm labor: Labor that starts anytime before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered preterm labor. Preterm babies often have complications such as breathing issues, feeding difficulties, infections, and trouble maintaining ideal body temperature.
- Placenta previa: Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta lies very low either partially or fully covering the cervix or the mouth of the uterus.This condition is often accompanied by vaginal bleeding after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- Placental abruption: Placental abruption is a serious condition where the placenta separate from the uterine wall way before childbirth leading to complications such as preterm labor, low birthweight, and even stillbirth.
- Ectopic pregnancy: Ectopic pregnancy is a complication when the fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus typically in one of the fallopian tubes. Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy cannot be continued and requires medical attention to ensure the health of the mother.
- Stillbirth: Stillbirth is a serious fatal condition where the fetus dies after 20 weeks of pregnancy. This can be caused due to various reasons such as infections, multiple babies in the womb, pre-existing health conditions and smoking habits of the mother.
- Miscarriage: Miscarriage is a loss of pregnancy that happens before 20 weeks of gestation. About 80% of miscarriages happen in the first trimester. It could be caused due to various reasons, such as improper fertilisation, chromosomal abnormality, age of the mother, and infections.
- Molar pregnancy: Molar pregnancy is a rare but serious complication that usually occurs in early pregnancy. It happens when a sperm fertilises an empty egg, leading to the growth of abnormal tissue inside the uterus instead of a developing embryo. Unfortunately, a molar pregnancy is not viable and must be treated with a medical procedure to remove the abnormal tissue.
- STI: Sexually Transmitted Infections or STI during pregnancy is a serious condition and it could potentially harm the mother and the baby. It could result in complications such as preterm labor, low birth weight of the baby or even stillbirth.
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: Chromosomal abnormalities are changes or abnormalities in the number, structure or composition of chromosomes leading to several complications including down syndrome, birth defects and developmental delay in the baby.
- Fetal Abnormalities: Fetal abnormalities are structural or functional defects in the baby such as heart defects,cleft palate, down syndrome and genetic disorders. It is also called birth defects.
- Cervical incompetence: Cervical incompetence is a serious condition where the cervix or the mouth of the uterus begins to dilate and shorten way before delivery leading to complications such as preterm labor and miscarriage. This condition often arises without major symptoms of labor. This condition often requires a surgical tournament called cervical cerclage where the opening of the cervix is stitched together to prevent preterm labor.
Mothers with these kinds of complications require more frequent monitoring than those with low-risk pregnancies, and the number of prenatal appointments and scans may also be higher to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
Labor
False pain vs true pain
True pain or labor pain is the pain experiencing childbirth. It is caused by uterine contractions(lighting and relaxation of the muscles in the uterus) and dilation of cervix (opening of the cervix or the mouth of the uterus during delivery).
Difference between Labor and braxton hicks
Full term
A pregnant mother is considered a full-term pregnancy when she reaches 37 weeks of pregnancy. Labor can happen anywhere from 37 weeks of pregnancy and the baby born after 37 weeks is considered to be a full term baby.
Type of delivery
The two main types of delivery are:
Vaginal birth and C-section or Cesarean section.
The type of delivery is usually decided by healthcare experts considering various factors such as:
- Health condition of the mother
- Health condition of the baby
- Pelvic size of the mother
- Size of the baby
- Mother’s history of stillbirth
Vaginal birth
Vaginal birth is the natural way of giving birth to the baby through the mother’s birth canal. This involves uterine contractions, dilation of cervix and mother’s pushing effort to deliver the baby.
Some mothers with certain conditions might require induced labor (an injection to start the labor process) before a vaginal delivery to kick start labor.
A vaginal birth has three stages of labor including:
- Dilation of cervix
- Labor
- Delivery of placenta
A vaginal delivery can last anywhere between a few minutes to even days. Ideally, it takes around 12 to 24 hours for childbirth to happen, but it varies from person to person.
Cesarean section
A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. It is often recommended for pregnant mothers with certain health conditions or complications such as placenta previa, breech baby, prolapsed umbilical cord, or stalled or prolonged labor, to ensure a safe delivery for both mother and baby.
When to consult a doctor?
It is important to consult a gynecologist as soon as you find out that you are pregnant. This is to ensure that you get proper prenatal care to ensure the health of yourself and the baby.
Apart from this, it is also important to not miss out on any prenatal appointment and scan to monitor the baby’s growth and health closely.
It is important to contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Severe pelvic/abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding
- Throbbing headache
- Blurry vision
- Sudden swelling of arms, legs and face
- Leakage of amniotic fluid
Conclusion
Pregnancy is a transformational journey for the expectant couple, especially the mother. From planning for pregnancy to conception to delivery, each stage is different. In order to make this journey smoother, it is important to be aware of what to expect and the necessary precautions to take in order to reduce the severity of symptoms.
No two pregnancies are the same, hence, it is important to discuss your signs and symptoms with your doctor and follow their advice to ensure a safer delivery. With the right prenatal care and support from loved ones, your journey from pregnancy to parenthood can be managed more easily.
