The Mom:
In the next few weeks, you will have your first visit
with your health care provider. You can expect it to
be very thorough. Be prepared to give a full medical
history, not just for yourself, but for your family.
They will probably do several routine tests. Some of
these will be repeated at every visit, while others
will not.
Test usually performed at each visit include:
Blood pressure checks look for increased blood pressure
which can be a sign of preeclampsia.
You can expect to be weighed at each visit. The average
pregnancy weight gain is between 20 to 30 pounds. Most
of this weight gain comes after the 20th week.
You can expect a urine test at each appointment
to check for sugar, protein or ketones in your urine.
Each of these can indicate that you are developing
possible complications in your pregnancy.
You will also be examined to see if you have any
swelling in your feet, ankles or wrists. These can also
be indicators of preeclampsia.
Usually, during that first visit, you will be asked to
have a blood test. This checks your blood type and RH
factor, whether you are immune to Rubella, if you are
anemic and many other serious health conditions.
You may also have an internal exam during this visit.
If it's time for your yearly PAP smear, you may have
that as well.
SYMPTOMS YOU MAY EXPERIENCE
Breast Changes, tenderness, fullness, darkening of the areola
Frequent Urination
Morning Sickness
Fatigue
Constipation
Indigestion or heartburn
Occasional headaches
The Baby:
The crown to rump length of your baby is .56 - .8 inch now.
So many things are changing in your baby every day now.
If you could look at your baby closely, you'd see the tip of his
nose and the eyelids developing, ears are forming as well.
The heart and lungs are continuing to develop and now the
bronchi (the tubes that lead to the the lungs from the trachea)
are starting to branch out. Arms are growing longer and baby
now has elbows!!! All this just 6 weeks after conception!!
Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor.
if you have any questions or comments!