Fetal Development: 29 weeks

Here comes the details of what happens as I enter the 29 weeks gestational age.

I am becoming bigger and fuller day by day.
And now when I turn to my sides or yawn or even hiccup my mum feels all the movements. That is expected ..right? I am occupying much space of my mom's belly now and you don't expect a grown up person to tiptoe all the time in the time.My mom can see my movements from outside also and gets excited and happy. But sometimes (shhh specially during night time when she goes to bed) if I do some gymnastics or acrobatics to impress my mom and pappa then she is very disturbed and annoyed ;)
I feel more relaxed at night time when she goes to sleep..but mom cannot understand this thing :(
ok mom .. i will try to make my movements more restricted at night.

Fetal development at 29 weeks:

Your baby is now as heavy as a butternut squash- that's about 2.5 pounds heavy and is over 15 inches tall from head to heel.

The muscles and lungs are on its way to becoming more developed and matured. The head is bigger than before- this is to allow more space for growth. Since these are major developments that are taking place, you need plenty of vitamin C, iron, folic acid, and protein to help aid in the normal growth and development of the baby inside your womb. And since the baby's bones are also rapidly growing, you need more calcium in your diet to balance the demands needed by the baby. You can get enough calcium from sources like cheese, yogurt, and milk.

The baby's fats continue to deposit under the skin - making the previously wrinkled skin smooth. These are the white fats, which actually serve as an energy source for the baby. And this explains why you baby is so energized during this period. You can feel more vigorous kicks than before. And the baby responds more quickly to light, sound, and movement.

The brain can now control the breathing patterns and the control the body temperature. Your baby's eyes can now move in the sockets.

Your little one is now more sensitive to sound, light, smell, and taste. The buds for permanent teeth are starting to form in the gums.

By this time, you should be expecting your baby to move or kick at least ten times in an hour. Of course, babies are not all made equal; some are more active than others. But if you get worried, try keeping tack of your babys's movements during a cuople of hours, and discuss the result with your midwife. And remember that even unborn babies do sleep, but usually not for several hours.

Your Body changes:

29 weeks pregnant, your tummy is now big enough that you can no longer see your legs when you are in a standing position; maybe not even your toes.

Forty percent of pregnant women develop varicose veins during this time of the pregnancy. These may be of great concern especially to

those who want to wear skirts. But tell you what, that's better compared to varicose veins in the rectum or in the vulva. Spider veins are not varicose veins. Don't get confused. Spider veins are just due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and will just fade after the baby is born.

Varicose veins can sometimes be painful, but some experience no discomfort from them. These are said to be hereditary in nature. So if your mom had them during her pregnancy, then it is most likely that you will have them, too.

Always remember that the best way to prevent varicose veins is to avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing. You can use support hose and to have your foot elevated several times a day.

You may also continue to experience same old situations, but heartburn and constipation are more common this time.

Ever wonder why they are common during pregnancy?

It is because of your pregnancy hormone, which is the progesterone. Progesterone is a smooth muscle tissue relaxant - necessary to prevent early contraction during pregnancy. This hormone not only relaxes the smooth uterine muscles but also the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract, making digestion slower, leading to accumulation of waste in the large intestine. And remember that the large intestine absorbs water - leading to constipation.

Progesterone also relaxes the valve that is responsible for back flows of gastric acid, causing the acid to back up, giving that unpleasant and burning sensation or what is commonly known as heartburn. If you experience this at night, talk to your midwife. If is absolutely horrible to wake up at night because of stomach acid coming up. At there is medication available even for pregnant women.

www.easybabylife.com/29-weeks-pregnant

Guide to Childbirth:

I have very little to comment on this entire process of birth. I am myself feeling nervous from now on..can think of mom..how nervous and tensed she might be !

But these are the steps that are involved and every momma giving birth should prepare for in the last few weeks of her pregnancy

Here goes the details:

Preparing for Childbirth:The ninth month of pregnancy is all about preparing for childbirth. After the entire pregnancy, you're nearly there!

Mother

* You may experience low backache, heartburn, and Braxton Hicks Contractions.
* Hopefully you have finished or will be finishing your childbirth classes to prepare for labor and childbirth.
* You will still have prenatal care appointments with doctor or midwife and potentially see your doula.

Baby

* Your baby's brain is growing a lot at the end of pregnancy.
* Deposits of brown fat, which will keep your baby warm after birth, are being made.
* Your baby's lungs are also developing.

The Mucus Plug and Breaking Bag of Waters:As you near the end of the your 40 weeks, and even after 40 weeks, you may be watching for signs of labor. These signs of labor are good indicators that your baby is ready to be born.

Mother

* You may lose your mucus plug all at once or slowly before labor begins. Sometimes you will not see the mucus plug until labor is well under way.
* Some women notice increased vaginal discharge as labor nears.
* While your labor may start with the breaking of the bag of waters, this is not as common as you might think.

Baby

* You may notice that your baby feels like s/he is down lower. This is called dropping or lightening. This may not happen until labor has started.

Contractions During Childbirth:Contractions during childbirth are what is best known about labor. A contraction is simply the uterine muscle tightening and releasing, opening the cervix, the mouth of the uterus.

Mother

* The discomfort or pain caused by contractions can often be alleviated by changing positions. You may use relaxation, visualization, vocalization and other comfort measures to decrease the pain of contractions as well.

Baby

* Your baby is still moving during labor. This is typically less movement than before labor, but many moms can still notice the movements that their baby is making.
* Fetal monitoring may be used to monitor contractions as well as your baby's heart rate.

How the Cervix Opens to Give Birth:As your labor progresses, the contractions of labor will change the cervix. Your cervix needs to open or dilate to 10 centimeters before your baby can be born.

Mother

* Your labor contractions will come at regular intervals that get stronger, longer and closer together.
* Your cervix thins out (effaces).
* Your cervix opens (dilates).

Baby

* Your baby moves down in your pelvis as labor progresses (station).

Fetal Head Molds:Contractions also help your baby's head mold. This is how your baby is able to fit through your pelvis.

Mother

* Movement may help your baby's head to mold more quickly.
* Changing positions definitely helps you with pain management of contractions in labor and childbirth.

Baby

* The baby simply keeps moving downward towards being born in a normal labor. This is the pressure needed to mold the bones of the

baby's skull. This is what gives some babies a cone shaped head. This molding is generally slight and goes away without any treatment within a few hours or days of birth.

If an Epidural is Used:Some women will choose to use epidural anesthesia. You may make this decision prior to labor or during labor.

Mother

* Will be given an IV and IV fluids prior to the epidural.
* Will have the epidural catheter placed.
* After the epidural has taken effect a urinary catheter may also be used.
* Will be restricted to bed as movements are hindered. There are positions for labor that can still be used.
* If your labor slows, interventions, like Pitocin or breaking your water (amniotomy), may be used to speed labor.

Baby

* Constant fetal monitoring will be used during the epidural procedure and afterward.
* Some babies will experience changes in the heart rate with any medication, the nursing staff will be watching your baby for signs of fetal distress.

Baby's Head is Born:This is an intense part of labor. The baby is about to be born, there is excitement, hard work and, well, labor, to be done.

Mother

* May need to slow pushing efforts, particularly if being coached.
* May feel the "ring of fire" as the baby is crowning.
* Will usually feel a great release and decrease in pain as baby is born.

Baby

* Makes final twists and turns to be born.
* May need suctioning for meconium, if present.
* Comes immediately to mom's belly or breast after birth.

Third Stage - Placenta:Typically everyone is so caught up in the baby that the placenta is usually only monitored by the midwife, doctor or nurses.

Mother

* Uterus continues to contract.
* Placenta will usually detach on its own from the uterus within 5-30 minutes.
* Holding and nursing the baby will speed the process.
* May be asked to push to aid in the expulsion of the placenta.

Baby

* Breathing and crying.
* Settling with mom, skin to skin.
* Attempts to breastfeed.

Bonding with Your Baby:

This time immediately after birth is a special time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your baby nurse immediately after

birth. You can have your doula or nurses help you with breastfeeding, but usually laying the baby skin to skin in this newborn period is

enough to get your baby seeking the breast and nursing without a lot of assistance.

Mother

* May shiver from the birth, warm blankets help.
* Uterus continues to contract. Nursing will help the process of involution.
* May be excited, tired, happy and all at once.

Baby

* Usually in a quiet alert state right after birth.
* Best if placed directly skin to skin on mom for warming.
* Will actively seek the breast if unhindered by clothing, medication and age (not premature).

http://pregnancy.about.com/od/laborbirth/

Braxton Hicks Contractions:

Now its time for mom to learn something very serious!!
These terms are very commonly used by doctors and by veteran moms. But what they really mean? They sound like some kind of difficult technical terminology that we should use in chemistry and physics lab..but actually they are more physiological ones and every pregnant should know about all these issues from their third trimester on.

These contractions may come anyday after you enter 27 weeks, but instead of worrying and rushing to the hospital try to note the ddifferences between normal labor and these false labor pain.
The following data will help mom to know the actual difference between the two and also guide her during that time with some relief measures.

What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Sometime towards the middle of your pregnancy (or even earlier), you may notice the muscles of your uterus tightening for anywhere from 30 to 60 seconds. Not all women feel these random, usually painless contractions, which get their name from John Braxton Hicks, an English doctor who first described them in 1872.

Why do Braxton Hicks contractions occur?

Experts have different opinions about Braxton Hicks contractions and their true purpose. Some believe that they play a part in getting your cervix ready for labour (also called "ripening").

Others believe that Braxton Hicks contractions do not lead to changes to the cervix and that ripening only occurs in pre-labour, when the first co-ordinated contractions of labour start or in labour itself.

How can I tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and real labour contractions?

Most women pregnant for the first time will often ask their doctor or friends this question, and the answer is maddeningly vague: "You'll know real labour when it begins." And they're right. Labour contractions are noticeably longer as well as more regular, frequent and painful than Braxton Hicks contractions. Also, labour pains will increase in frequency, duration, and intensity as time goes on, while Braxton Hicks remain unpredictable and non-rhythmic. Braxton Hicks may reduce in intensity or cease when you change positions.

What if the Braxton Hicks contractions become painful?

As your pregnancy progresses, these contractions may become more intense and even painful at times. When they start to become more intense and frequent, they may feel like the real thing. However, the contractions will still be irregular in intensity, frequency, and duration, and can taper off and then disappear altogether. In other words, if you ever notice that your contractions are easing up in any way, they are probably Braxton Hicks.

Some healthcare professionals recommend that you use Braxton Hicks contractions as an opportunity to practise the breathing exercises you'll learn in your antenatal class.

What should I do if they're uncomfortable?

• Many women notice that the contractions come more frequently when they do light physical activity, such as shopping. If you feel discomfort, it sometimes helps to lie down, or, conversely, to get up and take a walk, both of which can ease any pain you feel.

• A warm bath sometimes helps, too.

• Drink plenty of fluids. The contractions may be due to thirst and dehydration as well.

When should I call my doctor?

Call if your contractions are accompanied by watery or bloody vaginal discharge. Until you reach term (37 weeks gestation), call your doctor if the contractions are accompanied by lower back pain, if you feel more than three or four contractions an hour, or if they're coming at regular intervals; these are signs of premature labour. If you're past 37 weeks, there's no need to call your doctor until your contractions last 60 seconds each and are five minutes apart.

http://www.babycenter.in/pregnancy/


True Labor VS Braxton Hicks

The beginning of labor is different for every woman, and every pregnancy!

How can you tell the difference between your body's "practice contractions" known as Braxton Hicks, and The Big Show? Braxton Hicks contractions can sometimes be very difficult to differentiate from real labor, and sometimes can only be determined by a vaginal exam. The main difference is Braxton Hicks contractions will not dilate your cervix or help baby drop lower into the pelvis in preparation for birth as true labor will. Remember, if there is any doubt, call your caregiver or hospital.

Some basic differences between the two:

* Braxton Hicks contractions may subside after you drink a couple glasses of water, empty your bladder, and lie on your left side for an hour or two. True labor will persist after these interventions.
* Usually Braxton Hicks will remain irregular and short, true labor contractions may begin as irregular contractions, but will become more regular, longer, closer together, and stronger with time.
* In true labor, contractions may become stronger while walking, and do not cease while resting. Braxton Hicks contractions will not be affected by walking, and resting might make them stop.
* You may feel nauseated, have diarrhea, or vomit with true labor. With Braxton Hicks you will not.
* There may be bloody show in true labor as your cervix dilates, this won't be present with Braxton Hicks unless you have had a recent vaginal exam.
* Braxton Hicks contractions are often felt in the top of the uterus or in the groin area. True labor often starts in the lower back and radiates to the front.

How To Time Your Contractions:

First write down the time at the beginning of one contraction and again at the beginning of the next. The time between actually includes the contraction itself, and the time in between contractions. So if your contraction lasts 60 seconds, and there are four minutes until the next one, your contractions are 5 minutes apart.

A good rule of thumb:

* First time mom's should come to the hospital or call their caregiver (if a home birth) when contractions reach three to five minutes apart for a full hour.
* For veteran moms, come to the hospital when your contractions have been five to seven minutes apart for a full hour.

Most mothers are more comfortable spending the beginning part of labor at home, rather than in the hospital. However, if at any time you feel you need to be checked out by the hospital or your caregiver do so! Don't be embarrassed or upset if you are told you're having 'false labor', or are in the very early stages of labor. That baby will arrive eventually, I promise!

http://ohbabyblog.blogspot.com/


Braxton-Hicks Contractions:

Braxton-Hicks contractions are usually painless contractions of the uterus. Some women report painful sensations or more often, uncomfortable tightening of the abdominal wall. The Braxton-Hicks contractions are usually intermittent and come and go without an increase in intensity. The sometimes painful contractions are usually felt beginning after the twenty-eighth week of pregnancy. This sensation is due to the increasing amounts of estrogen and also due to the fact that the uterus is experiencing distention. These really are the same sort of pains felt during menstruation. Some women find them more frequent, usually after the pregnancy is well established.The contractions may occur every ten to twenty minutes any time after the twenty-eighth week and may not be felt by some women at all.

Other women feel them continually with intensity. Sometimes, the severity of the pain is due to the fact the women is a primigravida and is more aware of changes in her body. Or, a multigravida may be more aware of Braxton-Hicks contractions due to multiple pregnancies. They are usually most noticeable toward the end of the pregnancy although the contractions can be experienced any time after the pregnancy is into the second month or so.

Sometimes, the fact that the uterine contractions are happening close to the end of the pregnancy, they prompt women to go to the hospital because the Braxton-Hicks contractions are mistakenly considered to be true labor pains. Thus, Braxton-Hicks contractions are also known as false labor pains. Probably, if statistics were quoted, it would be found that nine out of ten women especially during their first pregnancy go at least once to the hospital experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions.

http://www.braxton-hickscontractions.com/


Pregnancy tends to come with a host of different discomforts, ranging from morning sickness, to bladder problems, to nosebleeds. As your pregnancy progresses, you may begin to notice a tightness in your uterus. This tightness is actually referred to as a Braxton Hicks

contraction, and it is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. Read on to find out more about Braxton Hicks contractions and how to tell them apart from the real signs of labor.

What are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
The majority of women experience frequent Braxton Hicks contractions during the different stages of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions are actually a tightening in the muscles of the uterus. Your brain sends your body signals to prepare for labor by contracting the uterine muscles, resulting in these uncomfortable contractions. Usually lasting between 1 and 2 minutes, Braxton Hicks contractions can occur throughout your pregnancy, strengthening in the last months before delivery.

Braxton Hicks contractions are named after the scientist who first discovered them in 1872. Thanks to him, we now know why women feel this strange tightening in their abdomens during pregnancy. The discovery of Braxton Hicks contractions has helped to clear up the mystery of false labor and the whole labor process.

Why do Braxton Hicks Contractions Occur?
The contractions that you experience throughout your pregnancy aren’t just there to annoy you – they actually do have a purpose. Braxton

Hicks contractions seem to be a part of the stages of pregnancy development. It is thought that Braxton Hicks contractions help your body to prepare for actual labor. They are commonly called "practice contractions" as they help your uterus prepare for the contractions it will experience during labor. Without Braxton Hicks contractions, your labor contractions would be longer, more painful, and less effective at pushing your baby out. Braxton Hicks contractions felt later in pregnancy also help to soften the cervix.

When do Braxton Hicks Contractions Begin?
Although Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as a couple of months into the first trimester of pregnancy, they usually begin around the 28th week of pregnancy. If you have already given birth to a child before, you may notice that your Braxton Hicks contractions begin earlier than usual and are more intense.

Braxton Hicks contractions are most common in the third trimester. Unfortunately, Braxton Hicks contractions typically last until the baby is delivered, and can get very uncomfortable as your due date nears.

What do Braxton Hicks Contractions Feel Like?
Some women do not feel much discomfort with their contractions, while others definitely feel stronger Braxton Hicks contractions. Usually, Braxton Hicks contractions are painless, causing only minor discomfort and annoyance. As you begin to get closer to your due date though, you may notice that your Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming stronger.

Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be infrequent and irregular, and can sometimes pop up out of nowhere. They usually don’t last long, though it depends on your particular pregnancy; some women have Braxton Hicks contractions that can last as long as 5 minutes.

When you experience a Braxton Hicks contraction, you might be able to feel the muscles in your uterus contracting. It will cause your stomach to become rigid and hard, which you will be able to feel if you touch your belly. This rigidity typically lasts only for a few minutes.

You may also feel moderate pain in the front of your abdomen which will then radiate down your body.

Common Braxton Hicks Triggers
Many women notice that certain things trigger their Braxton Hicks contractions. Common triggers include:

* baby moving inside your body
* heavy exertion or exercise, especially carrying things
* touching your abdomen
* sexual intercourse
* dehydration

What’s the Difference Between Braxton Hicks and Labor?
Many women worry that they won’t be able to tell the difference between their Braxton Hicks contractions and the real signs of labor. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

* Braxton Hicks contractions don’t increase in intensity, unlike labor pains.
* Labor pains will increase in frequency, whereas Braxton Hicks contractions will eventually disappear.
* Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be irregular, and occur sporadically. Real labor pains usually have a pattern to them.
* Braxton Hicks contractions don’t cause pain, but merely discomfort, unlike real labor contractions.

How to Stay Comfortable with Braxton Hicks Contractions:
If your Braxton Hicks contractions are really causing you discomfort, there are some things you can do to help minimize their effects. Try some of these tips the next time you have a Braxton Hicks contraction.

* Change your activity or position when you feel a Braxton Hicks contraction coming on. Usually a simple change in movement can help alleviate discomfort and even make the contractions go away.
* Try resting for a little bit. Lie down on your left side and drink a glass of water.
* Stay hydrated. Dehydration can often cause your muscles to spasm, and may trigger Braxton Hicks contractions.
* Empty your bladder often. Bladder irritation can trigger more intense Braxton Hicks contractions.
* Practice your labor breathing techniques while you are experiencing your Braxton Hicks contractions. Slow, deep, and rhythmic breathing can help alleviate discomfort.

http://www.pregnancy-info.net/braxton_hicks.html

Leg cramps during Pregnancy:

Nowadays Mamma sometimes is having tremendous leg pains..middle of the night she will start to feel this discomfort.
Generally I am awake in the night time and can feel what is going around me that time. I like to play around and enjoy my time in mum's small bump at that time..this is my happpy hour ..hee hee
Though mum is little annoyed due to this..but I can't resist myself be awake that time.

But nowadays mom is starting to be awake at night too due the pain and cramps.
I feel helpless and donot know how to help her at that point of time. Probably I will also start to have leg cramps as I am also resting all the time in the womb with my legs folded and gradually my space inside the womb is getting more and more cramped as I am getting bigger in size :(
Poor me..what will I do if I have leg cramps?

Oh god..I am becoming so selfish from now only..no no ..right now we will concentrate on my mum's problem of leg cramps..
Mom has searched the net and has got some reasons and solutions to this problem..I will put the data in front of you too for your advantage

Painful cramps in calves: how can they be stopped?

many pregnant women get these lower leg cramps, often in the middle of the night. Experts aren't sure what causes "charley horses" (the nonclinical name for painful cramps in your calf muscles). Although they can be extremely painful, charley horses are — luckily! — usually momentary.

What might help:

* Do calf stretches before bed to prevent the cramps from occurring. But make sure not to point your toes.
* Straighten your leg and flex your foot when you get a cramp. A gentle massage of the calf may help relax the muscle.
* Make sure you are drinking enough fluids during the day.
* Get regular exercise, which can help reduce cramps.

It was once thought that leg cramps were caused by low levels of nutrients like calcium in the blood, but there's no good evidence that taking supplements is helpful in treating or preventing leg cramps. If the leg pain doesn't resolve, is severe, or is accompanied by swelling, warmth, or redness in the leg or difficulty walking, talk with your health care provider right away.

http://kidshealth.org/parent/question/infants/leg_cramps.html


How to Prevent Leg Cramps During Pregnancy:

Many pregnant women wake up to painful leg cramps in the middle of the night. Some experts think cramps are caused by the weight increase brought on by pregnancy, while others believe they are due to an excess of phosphorus or a shortage of calcium or potassium. Here are some tips to help you avoid them altogether.

• Stretch your legs a few times a day, especially before bedtime.
• Rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes to increase circulation.
• Resist pointing your toes as you crawl into bed.
• Avoid crossing your legs or standing for long periods of time.
• Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas.
• Eat calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, fish with bones (salmon or sardines), green leafy vegetables, almonds and tofu.
• Reduce your intake of phosphorus-rich foods such as soft drinks, processed meats and snack foods.

http://www.ehow.com/


Leg Pain in Pregnancy : Cramps, Varicose Veins, and Thrombophlebitis

Leg cramps

Leg cramps are a famous misery of pregnancy. They range anywhere from a fleeting musclular pulling all the way to hopping around in agony. There are many factors which may contribute to the increased tendency toward leg cramps in pregnancy, and there is no agreement among doctors as to which factors are the more important causes. Among them are:

*Pressure of the baby's head on the nerves of the pelvis can fire off the leg muscles.
*Alterations in calcium and magnesium, not only because of the altered physiology of pregnancy but also because of alterations in circulation due to swelling and changes in blood volume.
*Increased exertion on muscles due to changes in weight and center of gravity later in pregnancy. In other words, leg muscles that do just fine when non-pregnant, but prove to be out of shape with the increased physical demands of pregnancy.

Remedies for leg cramps have been dismal failures. Massaging the cramps is the most immediate remedy, but that can be like chasing your own tail. Taking extra calcium in supplements sounds like a good idea, but that is probably voodoo. In my practice, these remedies have fallen short of relief. What I have seen work the best is continued exercise to keep the leg muscles in shape, but this assumes good exercise and toned muscles before pregnancy, too.

As impotent as this information seems in trying to prevent or relieve this common misery, the good news is that the phenomenon is harmless, in spite of the severity. Now you know everything I know about leg cramps in pregnancy, which is pretty sad.

But here's the most important thing: REPORT ALL LEG PAIN TO YOUR DOCTOR.

Thrombophlebitis

Leg cramps may be harmless, but it is crucial to differentiate this pain from the pain of thrombophlebitis, which is an inflammation of the deep veins of the legs. Thrombophlebitis is an emergency and a very big deal, because deep leg veins so inflamed can develop blood clots that can fling off toward your lungs and endanger your life suddenly.

Now before there is a flood of hysteria about leg cramps possibly being thrombophlebitis, please know that there is a
simple method of distinguishing between the two. With sporadic leg cramps, the legs should not hurt when there is not a cramp. Squeezing the calf muscles shouldn't be painful in between these episodes. On the other hand, squeezing the calf muscles causing pain any time would be be very disturbing.

The treatment for thrombophlebitis involves anticoagulants ("blood thinners"), which are medicines that decrease the blood's ability to clot. The management of the doses of the anticoagulants can be quite tricky, so it is necessary to hospitalize such patients for a while.

On the one hand we have leg cramps, which are an inconvenience at worst; on the other we have thrombophlebitis, which is extremely dangerous if not diagnosed and treated. Thankfully, it's easy to tell the difference with a simple squeeze of the calf muscles. And if there's any doubt, ultrasound can look at the deep leg veins to see if there are any clots.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are not dangerous, and they are NOT thrombophlebitis. Varicose veins are a problem with gravity and the weight of the baby on the drainage of superficial veins back up toward the heart. Varicose veins are mere engorgement of these structures and have nothing to do with clots in the deep veins of the legs. Although they can hurt, they don't present as the danger that deep blood clots are. Because they are a result of partial obstruction of their drainage, wearing those nasty grandma stockings can help keep them compressed. There are other specialty girdles that are sold that can help all the way up to varicose veins of the vulva, too.

http://www.gynob.com/legcramp.htm

Baby Hiccups in womb:

Oh it has started again..
Hic..hic...hic...
I am now becoming tired of this activity..initially was feeling this as a new found activity and was really enjoying it..but now getting tired these days :(

Have you read "Destination moon" of Tintin series by Herge?
Do you remember the twin characters Thomson and Thompson?
They had some style of hiccups when they found themselves with team of Tintin on their way to moon :)
I feel the same way nowadays..like always bubbles coming out from my tiny little mouth hiccuping regularly the amniotic fluid..
This is really weird !

Doctors say that because I am developing my lungs for the outside world and trying to breathe hence I am having these type of hiccups..

Initially mum was a little scared when I used to hiccup...she used to think what is that spasm going inside?
But now after reading a lot of posts in the net and searching about the issue she is at peace..
But that does not make ME any calmer..this is awkward and irritating even if you are a little person like me in the womb or a fully grown up person ..right?

Why Do Babies Hiccup So Much In The Womb?

Many pregnant women wonder what their baby is doing when they feel those rhythmic movements later in pregnancy. Most are surprised to learn their baby has the hiccups! That is right, many babies have the hiccups while they are in the womb and some babies have the hiccups multiple times per day. But, what causes this and why do babies hiccup in the womb anyway?

There has not been an overwhelming amount of research on fetal hiccupping in the womb, although there is some speculation as to why it happens. First of all, only more mature fetuses hiccup in the womb because their central nervous system is adequately developed in order to allow this to happen. It is believed that the fetus breathes in amniotic fluid or drinks it. When this happens and the amniotic fluid enters and exists the fetus lungs then the diaphragm contracts and hiccups results. Fetal hiccups appear to be extremely normal and almost all moms will feel the babies hiccups at least once if not on a regular basis.

Keep in mind that when you r fetus is hiccupping there is nothing wrong. You donot need to call your doctor or midwife, unless you feel something else is going on, and you donot need to freak out. Simply relax and enjoy feeling your baby move inside you.

A fun thing to do is to keep a record of when your babies hiccups en utero. This can be a fun piece of information to store in your baby book or share with your child when he/she is older.

Almost all women will feel their fetus hiccuping at least once during the pregnancy if not more. Some women donot recognize the rhythmic movement as hiccuping, but most do. In addition, some babies will hiccup on a daily basis and others even more frequently.

If your baby is hiccuping on a regular basis then you can feel free to mention it your doctor however you will be assured that hiccuping is normal and it in now way affects your child youre your heath.

http://www.thelaboroflove.com/articles/why-do-babies-hiccup-so-much-in-the-womb/



Is it normal for my baby to be hiccuping in the womb?

Yes. Fetal hiccuping is a normal phenomenon that's been felt by many pregnant women and has been observed on many an ultrasound. Your baby may have started hiccuping intermittently beginning in the late first or early second trimester, although you wouldn't have been able to feel the hiccups at that early stage.

Some women notice episodes of hiccups — which feel like a series of little rhythmic movements — a number of times a day, while other women only notice them once in a while.

Hiccuping is common in newborn babies, too, so after you give birth, don't be surprised if your little one hiccups occasionally.

http://www.babycenter.com/


My Baby Has Hiccups!

Hiccups can be a big worry for many pregnant women and new moms. Why does their baby have them? Is their baby in pain from them? What can they do about them? Rest assured, most of the time the baby is not in pain, and the mother is more bothered by the fact that the hiccups have appeared, than the baby is having them.

Hiccups in Utero
Pregnant women often mention feeling their baby having hiccups while in the womb and wonder what causes this. These hiccups can start in the first trimester, but won’t be felt by mom until late in the second trimester or during the third trimester. Rarely do the hiccups bother the mother-to-be, however some moms might worry that it is hurting their baby.

The exact cause of your baby’s hiccups is unknown. However, many specialists believe that your baby’s hiccups may be helping to strengthen the diaphragm muscle in order to help the baby breathe both in the womb and once they are born. In many cases your baby will have the hiccups at the same time everyday.

Not only can hiccups be felt by the mom-to-be, but it can also be detected during an ultrasound and picked up on a Doppler while at the doctor’s office for a routine visit. After a woman has been assured that these hiccups are normal and are not bothering their baby, then they become something that can be looked forward to on a daily basis, much like their baby kicking.

Hiccups After Birth

If your baby had hiccups while in utero, it is very plausible that he will have the hiccups after he is born. Some babies that did not have them in utero may still have them after birth. Hiccups can start after birth as early as the day your baby is born. Like the hiccups your baby might have had in utero, these hiccups are generally not painful for your baby.

Hiccups after birth occur when the diaphragm muscle contracts causing your baby to take quick short breaths. Normally these hiccups go away after only a few minutes. If they are really bothering you, try burping your baby more often during feedings. To get them to stop you can try to feed your baby whether you are nursing or bottlefeeding. The constant sucking and swallowing can help that muscle relax and help the hiccups stop.

http://www.babiesonline.com/articles/baby/babyhashiccups.asp


Baby Hiccups

During the first few months you can be sure that your baby will hiccup at regular intervals, particularly when he/she gets excited or just after a feed. This is quite normal and is nothing to be unduly alarmed about. Hiccups are just one of the many normal behaviours and reflexes that are common for newborn babies that parents (particularly first time parents) need to be aware of and get used to. In fact, chances are that the mother even felt the baby hiccup from time to time while still in the womb. Indeed, studies have revealed that hiccups can start as early as the 6th week after actual conception!

The exact reasons for newborn babies suffering hiccups more so than other, older, infants is not generally agreed upon by the medical profession, but undoubtedly much has to do with the relative immaturity of your baby’s internal organs. As your baby develops and matures, so too will the hiccuping reduce in intensity and frequency.

There isn’t a lot you can do to stop the hiccups in a newborn baby. Certainly the old wives-tale solutions for adults (such as standing on your head, breathing into a paper bag, getting a scare etc.,) should not be tried on your infant. In fact, probably the only thing you can do is to patiently wait the hiccups out and try to comfort or distract your baby while the hiccups persist. Frequent burping during feeding may decrease the instances of hiccups, but once they start there is very little that you can do.

Hiccups can last for anything from a minute or so right up to half an hour or an hour at a time but they do not harm your baby in any way. You may find however that as your baby gets older, he/she will tend to get frustrated during periods of hiccuping. By this stage however your baby should be easier to distract and keep occupied and hopefully this in turn will make it possible for you to help your baby stop hiccuping once he/she starts.

Remember, at the end of the day it is only really the parents who get bothered by baby’s hiccups. They don’t bother your baby at all (in fact he/she probably wonders why everyone doesn’t hiccup!), so the only things you need to give your baby each time hiccups develop are a little bit of patience, and a lot of TLC.

http://www.burpingbaby.net/baby_hiccups.htm

Insulin in Gestational Diabetes:

Mama has started her daily dose of insulin!
She tried her best to keep the levels of glucose low for almost 2months, but now as she is getting bigger and gaining weight she is having problems in her regular exercises and walking, that in effect is increasing the blood glucose level to some extent.

Taking insulin everyday is not a matter of joke.
Doctor has prescribed insulin 3times a day, 30minutes before breakfast, lunch and dinner. I have heard that rapid action insulin can be given safely to pregnant ladies with GDM. There are somne types of insulin available like short acting, intermediate, long acting. But these are not very safe to be used in GDM.

In the initial stage mom was very nervous and also reluctant to take this injection everyday. As you already know she is taking proluton depot injection every week and that is also so much painful. Hence she had some fears that again taking 3injections everyday will make her life miserable!
But as she understood that she can safeguard her pregnancy her taking insulin injections daily, she made up her mind that whatever pain she will have she will sustain it but she cannot get me in trouble. I love you momma! You are doing so much for me. Whenever I think of your pain and anguish I am really speechless..you are a Mother-one in a million..I promise you I will repay you one day no matter what !

Now everyday she is pricking herself with diabetes pen needle.. Everyone say that they do not hurt too much and taking insulin by pen is so much simple and easy. But I will tell you the real fact. It does pain..specially if the needle becomes old or is used for 2days consecutively. You may say it does not pain in comparison to the normal syringe injections.

Mom was searching the net and has come to know a few facts and figures about taking insulin in gestational diabetes.

Take insulin and/or other medications as prescribed

What is it?

Even if you do everything your health care provider tells you to manage your gestational diabetes, you still might need to take insulin during your pregnancy to keep it under control. You already know that insulin moves glucose out of your bloodstream and into your cells to use as energy; you may need extra insulin to lower your blood glucose level. The only way to get extra insulin into your body is to inject it under your skin with a needle. Taking insulin is the same as any other part of this treatment plan. It's just another way to help you stay healthy.

Why do I have to do it?

You may have to include small amounts of insulin in your treatment plan if:

* Your blood sugar level is too high.
* Your blood sugar level is high too many times.
* Your blood sugar level remains high, but you are not gaining much weight or are not eating poorly.
* You cannot safely add physical activity to your treatment plan.

In these cases, the best action for maintaining a healthy pregnancy is to add insulin. Insulin does not hurt the fetus. The daily records that you keep help your health care provider decide when and if it's time to begin insulin. That's why it's important to keep good records.
Here are some other things you should know about insulin:

* If you need to take insulin, it does not mean that you didn't try hard enough or that you failed at taking care of yourself. It just means that your body has a high level of insulin resistance and needs some help getting glucose level back into healthy range. (Refer to the Knowing your blood sugar level and keeping it under control: How do I know I'm doing it right? section of this booklet for more details on the healthy range for glucose.)
* Taking insulin does not mean you have type 1 diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes have to take insulin shots every day of their lives because their bodies don't make enough insulin. As a woman with gestational diabetes, taking insulin does NOT mean that you now have type 1 diabetes. It only means that your body needs some extra help to balance its insulin and glucose levels. After your baby is born, your diabetes will likely go away, and with it, your need to take insulin.
* An increase in the amount or dosage of insulin you need does not mean that your pregnancy is in danger. The amount of insulin you take will probably increase as your pregnancy goes on. Because your insulin resistance increases as your pregnancy continues, your body needs more insulin to overcome this resistance. The goal is to keep your blood sugar under control, no matter how much insulin it takes. Most women take two insulin shots each day, but you may get better glucose control with three injections.
* You may need more insulin if you are under high amounts of stress or if you are sick because your blood sugar level gets higher on its own in these cases. Some medicines can also cause blood sugars to rise above the healthy range.

How do I do it?

Your health care provider will teach you how to give yourself insulin shots, if you need them. Use this answer sheet to write down what your health care provider tells you about your insulin treatment.

When do I do it?

How often you need insulin shots will depend on your body. Your health care provider will tell you how often to take the shots and at what times of day. Make sure you follow his or her advice about taking insulin to help ensure the safety of your pregnancy.

Special instructions for women taking insulin

* Follow a regular eating schedule. Your health care provider can tell you when to take the insulin and when to eat your meals so that the timing of both is correct. Do not skip or delay meals and snacks when taking insulin because this can affect your glucose-insulin balance.
* Know the symptoms of low blood sugar. If your blood sugar level drops below 60 at any time, you have hypoglycemia (hypo means low, and glycemia means sugar). Low blood sugar can be dangerous. Hypoglycemia is not common in women with gestational diabetes, but you are at greater risk for it if you take insulin. The table shown here describes some reasons that low blood sugar might occur and some of its symptoms.

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS OF LOW BLOOD SUGAR

Why does low blood sugar occur?
* Too much exercise
* Skipping meals or snacks
* Delaying meals or snacks
* Not eating often enough
* Too much insulin

How might I feel if I have low
blood sugar?
* Very hungry
* Very tired
* Shaky or trembling
* Sweating or clamminess
* Nervous
* Confused
* Like you're going to pass out or faint
* Blurred vision

Or…You might feel fine.

* Know when your insulin is working its hardest. Low blood sugar is more common at these times, depending on how your body uses insulin and glucose.
* Be careful about doing physical activity, but remain active. Because both insulin and physical activity lower your blood sugar level, when combined they can cause your blood sugar level to drop very quickly. Test your blood sugar before you do any physical activity. If your level is low, eat something and test again to make sure your level is higher before you start an activity. Be smart about how much physical activity you do, how much you eat, and how much insulin you take.
* Be prepared. Take your insulin supplies with you when you go out, especially if you are going to be gone a long time. You should also take some form of sugar with you, in your purse, in your car's glove compartment, or in your pocket, in case your blood sugar drops too low. The best form of sugar for an emergency is glucose paste or glucose tablets. You can buy these at the drug store or pharmacy. Ask your health care provider for more information.
* Test your blood sugar if you start to feel dizzy, faint, or tired.
* Report any abnormal blood sugar level to your health care provider right away, in case a change in your treatment plan is needed.

taken from:http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/gest_diabetes/

Gestational diabetes: Giving yourself insulin shots

If you have gestational diabetes and you have not been able to keep your blood sugar levels within a safe range by changing the way you eat and by exercising, you will need insulin shots.

Key points

* Taking insulin can help prevent high blood sugar. High blood sugar can lead to problems for you and your baby.
* Insulin is given as a shot into the fatty tissue just under the skin. In pregnant women, insulin usually is given in the upper arm or thigh.
* At first, you may feel nervous about giving yourself insulin shots. But, after a little while, it will become a routine part of your day. It is not hard to learn how to do, and any sting you might feel will not last long. More than 500,000 people in the United States do this every day. You can, too.
* It is also important to:
o Have the right dose of insulin, especially if you are giving two types of insulin in the same syringe.
o Practice how to give your shot.
o Store the insulin properly so that each dose will work well.


What does it mean to prepare and give an insulin shot?

Insulin comes in small glass bottles (vials) and cartridges. Each type of container is sealed with a rubber lid. One vial or cartridge contains many doses. To remove a dose of insulin from:

* A vial: You will use an insulin syringe to get the insulin and to give yourself a shot.
* A cartridge: You will use a pen-shaped device called an insulin pen. The cartridge fits inside the pen and the dose of insulin is set with a dial on the outside of the pen. The pen (with the cartridge inside) is used to give the medicine. There are disposable and reusable insulin pens. Each pen works slightly differently.

Note: If you are using an insulin pen, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how to use the pen correctly. Giving insulin with these pens is not covered in this information.

To give an insulin shot, the needle (attached to the syringe) is inserted through the skin. The medicine is pushed from the syringe into fatty tissue just below the skin. In pregnant women, insulin usually is given in the upper arm or thigh.

Your doctor may have you take two types of insulin at the same time. Most types of insulin that are prescribed to be taken at the same time can be mixed together in the same syringe.

Why give insulin?

Normally, insulin is made by the pancreas. Insulin helps sugar (glucose) enter cells, where it is used for energy. It helps our bodies store extra sugar in muscles, fat, and liver cells. Later, that sugar can be released if it is needed. Without insulin, the body cannot use sugar, causing the blood sugar level to get too high.

If you have gestational diabetes during pregnancy, your pancreas cannot produce enough insulin. If regular exercise and changing the way you eat do not keep your blood sugar level within a safe range, you will need to take a man-made form of insulin. Keeping your blood sugar level within a safe range prevents complications for you, for your unborn baby (such as growing too large for normal delivery), and for your baby after birth (such as low blood sugar levels).

People who have type 1 diabetes and some people who have type 2 diabetes also need to take insulin.

How to prepare and give an insulin shot

Your doctor will help you learn to prepare and give yourself insulin shots. Here are some simple steps to help you learn how to do it.
Get ready
To get ready to give an insulin shot, follow these steps:

1. Gather your supplies. You will need an insulin syringe, your bottle of insulin, and an alcohol wipe or a cotton ball dipped in alcohol. Most people keep their supplies in a bag or kit so they can carry the supplies with them wherever they go.
2. Check the insulin bottle label, expiration date, and contents. When you use an insulin bottle for the first time, write the date on the bottle. On the 30th day after opening it, throw the bottle away. Insulin may not work as well after 30 days.
3. Wash your hands with soap and running water. Dry them thoroughly.

Prepare the shot

Your preparation will depend on whether you are giving one type of insulin or mixing two types of insulin.

* To prepare a shot with a single type of insulin, follow the instructions in the slideshow of steps for preparing a single dose of insulin.
* To prepare a shot containing two types of insulin, follow the instructions in the slideshow of steps for preparing a mixed dose of insulin.

Prepare the site

Before giving your shot, take the time you need to do the following:

* Choose the place. See a diagram of shot areas for guidance. If you give your shots in different places on your body each day, use the same site at the same time of day.
* Clean the area. If you use alcohol to clean the skin before you give the shot, let it dry.
* Relax your muscles in the area of the shot.

Give the shot

Follow these steps for giving an insulin shot:

1. Slightly pinch a fold of skin between your fingers and thumb of one hand.
2. Hold the syringe like a pencil close to the site, keeping your fingers off the plunger. Usually the syringe is at a 90-degree angle to the skin site. If you are thin, you may need to insert the needle at a 45-degree angle. This will prevent the insulin from being injected into muscle, causing it to be absorbed more quickly.
3. Quickly push the needle all the way into the pinched-up area.
4. Push the plunger of the syringe all the way in so the insulin goes into the fatty tissue.
5. Remove the needle slowly at the same angle that you inserted it. If you bleed a little, apply pressure over the area using your finger, a cotton ball, or piece of gauze. Do not rub the area. Check your blood sugar more frequently on the days when bleeding occurs.
6. Replace the cover over the needle. Although syringe manufacturers do not recommend it, some people reuse their syringes until the needle becomes dull or bent. If you plan to reuse your syringe, see precautions when reusing syringes.

Clean up and storage

After giving your shot:
* Store your insulin properly so that each dose from the bottle will work well.
* Do not throw your used syringe, needle, or lancet in a trash can. You can dispose of it in a metal container that either has a lid that screws on or a lid that you tape down tightly. You also can buy special containers for disposing of used needles and syringes. Talk with your local trash disposal agency or your doctor about how to get rid of the container.

Other suggestions for success and safety

To help you be safe and successful in giving your insulin shots:

* Teach someone else to give your insulin shots. Have that person give you a shot from time to time so they will know how to do it in case of an emergency.
* Do not mix other medicine with insulin without your doctor's instruction. If you are taking two types of insulin, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether they can be mixed in the same syringe.
* Never share syringes with another person because of the risk of getting diseases that can be transferred through blood, such as HIV or infection of the liver (hepatitis).

Insulin injection areas for gestational diabetes

These pictures show the areas of the body where insulin can be injected. You can give yourself a shot in:

* The top outer area of the thighs. Insulin usually is absorbed more slowly from this site, unless you exercise soon after injecting insulin into your legs.
* The upper outer area of the arms.
* The buttocks.

Change the spot where you give the shot slightly each time, so that you do not get bumps or pits in your skin. For example, use the right upper arm 5 times in different places, then use the left upper arm in 5 places.

Precautions when reusing insulin syringes:

Some people with diabetes use their insulin syringes more than once to save money. Talk with your doctor before reusing your syringes. Some people with diabetes should not reuse their syringes, including people who have:

* Trouble seeing clearly.
* Trouble using their hands.
* Infections or open wounds.

Some precautions to take if you reuse syringes:

* Put the cover back on the needle after use. The safest way to do this is to place the cover and syringe on a flat surface and slide the cover over the needle without letting the needle touch either the flat surface or your fingers. Only the inside of the cover should touch the needle. Do not hold the syringe straight up; you may accidentally stick yourself.
* Do not clean the needle with alcohol. Alcohol removes the silicone covering on the needle, causing it to become dull.
* Store the syringes at room temperature. It is best to store them with the covered needle pointing up to prevent insulin from blocking the needle opening.

Dispose of reused syringes in safe containers when:

* The shot hurts when you use the syringe.
* The needle becomes dull. Needles usually are dull after being used more than 5 times.
* The needle is bent or has touched something other than your skin.
* You notice redness or signs of infection at the place where you have given the shot. Let your doctor know if you have an infection.

taken from:http://health.yahoo.com/diabetes-treatment/

Fetal Development: 28 weeks

I am a big man now!!
I can kick, i can swallow, swing, twist, turn, open my tiny eyes, sometimes hic-hic-hiccups do happen but all have to swallow is amniotic fluid, that is the reason ;)
I am gradually feeling more comfortable in my mom's tummy..though my mom is getting more and more uncomfortable with my weight ..he he..

i can hear all that is going all around me..sometimes i feel like peeping to the outside world to see what that noise was all about..some noises are distracting but some are real comfortable.
I have also heard that we get nowadays CDs which have tracks of noises of water trickling down, or sound of wind whispering through the leaves of trees and some peculiar noises like that which may make a baby in the womb rest calmly and develop their IQ in their mother's womb. Will be able to comment more on that topic once papa gets the CD from his office colleague and both me and mom listens to the tunes :)

For now let me give a glimpse of how I look and how mom feels at this moment of 28weeks of gestation period!

28 weeks of gestation period :

By your 28th week of pregnancy, your baby is about 16 inches long and weighs 3-1/2 to 4 pounds. The skin is wrinkled but will become less so as more subcutaneous fat, the layer of fat just under the skin, is laid down in the next few weeks. Fine downy hair, called lanugo, and a waxy white protective substance covering the skin, called vernix, are present on the baby's body. The baby's eyes are open. The eyebrows and eyelashes were formed in the fourth month. The baby sucks its thumb and its taste buds have developed. The baby kicks, stretches, and moves frequently in the uterus. These movements, which are readily observable to others, are often keenly felt by the mother. Some mothers may find that the pressure of the growing uterus against the stomach by this week causes heartburn. The fundus, the top of the uterus, is now about one-third of the distance between the umbilicus (bellybutton) and the xiphoid cartilage. Constipation may also occur due to uterine pressure on the lower colon, as well as hormonal slowing of peristalsis (the process of excreting waste). Uterine growth combined with increased maternal weight gain contribute to a recurrence of fatigue similar to that during the early weeks of pregnancy.

By the 28th week, changes in the breasts prepare them for lactation. First colostrum, then milk, is produced by the grape-like clusters of tiny sacs (alveoli) deep within the breast tissue. Clusters of alveoli form lobules, which consolidate to form 15 to 20 lobes. Each lobe connects to a lactiferous duct. As the ducts extend toward the nipple and areolar areas, they widen into the lactiferous sinuses. These sinuses (or milk pools) release the milk through 15 to 20 tiny nipple openings when the baby nurses.

The baby's organs and systems are quite well developed by the 28th week of pregnancy. If born now, the baby would probably survive but would need intensive, specialized care. The final two months of gestation are important for further maturation of all body systems and organs. Full term gestation best prepares the baby for a smooth and healthy adjustment to life outside of your uterus.

taken from:http://www.childbirthconnection.org/

28 weeks pregnancy:

Your baby's crown-to-rump length is approximately 10 inches and the total length of your growing baby is around 15.75 inches. Your baby weighs about 2.4 pounds at this point. Your uterus is a little more than 3 inches above your bellybutton. Your weight gain at this time should be between 17 and 24 pounds.

Blood vessel in the umbilical cord. For several months, the umbilical cord has been the baby's lifeline to the mother. Nourishment is transferred from the mother's blood, through the placenta, and into the umbilical cord to the baby. If the mother ingests any toxic substances, such as drugs or alcohol, the baby receives these as well!

You will probably begin visiting your caregiver once every two weeks. Week 28 is an important week for testing. You will probably be having your glucose tolerance test, an iron level test and if you are Rh negative, you should have an antibody test. The antibody test will determine if you and your baby will have any reactions to each other's blood differences. The glucose test will check for gestational diabetes.

Your baby's brain continues to develop and is now forming the folds and grooves of a fully developed brain. The amount of tissues within the brain also continues to increase in large amounts. The hair that covers your baby's scalp is also getting longer. Your baby is now large enough for presentation to be determined and your doctor might be able to find out if your baby is at risk for being breech. If your baby is breech, don't panic. There is still time for the baby to rotate.
taken from: pregnancy.about.com/.../pregnancycalendar

Diet during pregnancy:

Nowadays I am feeling so hungry!

I have heard that gradually as I grow and start having fat in my little body, I will need some extra calories ..is it true?
I think ..yes..otherwise why should I be hungry all the time?
Probably you guys are thinking such a small body and so much hunger! But believe me I share all my nutrients with my mum :)
How can i leave her hungry knowing the fact that she is suffering from gestational diabetes and is following diet so religiously all the time..

Dietitians always say that pregnant women should have all healthy and nutritious diet all the time

Diet:

A well balanced diet is more important when you are pregnant, since what you eat has to meet your unborn baby's needs as well as your own requirements. The first three months of pregnancy is important as most of the physical and mental growth of the baby takes place during this time. The principal organs both external and internal and the nervous system of the baby form within this period. So it is important to eat well from the beginning itself even if you have discomforts like nausea etc. Like wise babies growth is rapid during the last three months of pregnancy. A nutritious diet during this period is essential for normal birth weight of the baby.

A nutritious diet with enough proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins are essential during pregnancy. Your diet should consist of a variety of foods selected from the five basic food groups. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain products like breads or cereals, meat, fish or other protein alternatives, milk and other diary products etc provide a nutritious diet. Keep off canned and processed foods, spicy foods, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, sugary foods such as cakes, cookies, candies, sodas and colas and reduce your salt intake as far as possible.

Eat as wide a variety of food as possible but in moderation. Too much of any one food can even be harmful if it leads to excessive gain in weight. Try to have three meals every day, or six smaller meals if you have problems with nausea or heartburn. A total up to a total of 2,200 or 2,800 calories is essential for a healthy pregnancy. Besides the natural diet, prenatal vitamins especially iron, calcium, folic acid are often prescribed routinely through out the pregnancy by the doctor.

Some of the essential nutrients

Folic acid: Folic acid is the most vital nutrient pregnant women need. This is needed for the development of baby's nervous system, especially in the first few weeks. Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects (defects of the spine, brain, or their coverings) and other birth defects like cleft lip and congenital heart disease. By consuming at least 4 milligrams (mg) of folic acid every day before getting pregnant and during the first three months of pregnancy, you can help reduce the risk of these defects. Folic acid is found in dark-green leafy vegetables (like spinach or kale), liver, yeast, beans and citrus fruits, and in fortified cereals and bread. Folic acid is easily lost while cooking, so steam green vegetables or eat them raw.
Iron: Iron is needed to fuel hemoglobin production for you and your baby. Iron also helps build bones and teeth. A shortage of iron can cause a condition called anemia. If you have anemia, your doctor will give you iron supplements to take once or twice a day. You can help prevent anemia by eating more iron-rich foods like potatoes, raisins, dates, broccoli, leafy green vegetables, whole-grain breads and iron-fortified cereals.

Calcium : This is vital for the healthy development of your baby's bones and teeth, which start to form at about week eight. You will need about double the quantity of calcium than is normal. At least three servings of milk, yogurt, or cheese is essential to meet expectant mother's calcium needs. Apart from diary products, good sources include leafy, green vegetables. Diary products are also high in fat, so if possible choose low fat varieties such as skim milk. The recommended daily amount of calcium during pregnancy and breast feeding increases significantly from 800-1200mg.

Protein : Try to eat a variety of protein rich foods, because your needs increase during pregnancy. Vitamin B6 is needed for the proper utilization of protein. Fish, meat, nuts, peas, beans and diary foods such as milk and eggs all supply protein, but animal sources can also be high in fat, so limit your intake of these and choose lean cuts of meat whenever possible.

Vitamin C : This will help to build a strong placenta, enable your body to resist infection and aid the absorption of iron. It is found in fresh fruit and vegetables and supplies of the vitamin are needed daily because it cannot be restored in the body. A lot of vitamin C is lost by prolonged storage and cooking, so eat fresh produce and steam green vegetables or eat them raw.

Fiber : This should form a large part of your daily diet, since constipation and piles are common in pregnancy and fiber will help prevent it. Besides rich sources like fruits and vegetables, brown rice, nuts, cereals including oats, beans, peas and pulses etc are good sources of fiber.

Water: Water plays a key role in your diet during pregnancy. It carries the nutrients from the foods you eat to your baby, and also helps prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, excessive swelling, and urinary tract or bladder infections. Most importantly, drinking enough water, especially in your last trimester, prevents you from becoming dehydrated which can then lead you to have contractions and premature, or early labor. Pregnant women should drink at least six to eight glasses of water per day. You can drink juices for fluid, but they also have a lot of calories and can cause you to gain extra weight. Coffee, soft drinks, and teas cannot count towards the total amount of fluid you need as they have caffeine which actually reduce the amount of fluid in your body.

taken from:http://www.webindia123.com/health/women/pregnancy/diet.htm