The Mom:
Good nutrition is important during pregnancy. You
should plan on increasing your calorie intake between
300-95% calories daily. These extra calories provide
the extra energy needed for growth in both you and
baby.
PROBLEMS THAT MAY ARISE
Everyone hopes for a smooth pregnancy, but sometimes
problems can and do develop. Here are some of the
possible complications that can arise. If you have any
questions about any of these, be sure to ask your
health care provider.
Preeclampsia is a high blood pressure condition that
can develop in pregnancy. If left untreated it can
reduce the oxygen flow to your baby. Symptoms
include: elevated blood pressure, protein in the urine
and headaches. Your Health Care Provider (HCP) will monitor you at each visit
for any signs of preeclampsia.
Spotting during early pregnancy is something every
pregnant woman fears. It is possible to bleed heavily
and not miscarry or harm baby, but you should make
your HCP aware of any spotting you have. Sometimes
spotting may be due to an impending miscarriage, you
HCP may be able to do an ultrasound scan to see if baby is
developing normally.
Ectopic or tubal pregnancies are when the fertilized
egg implants in the fallopian tubes. If it's not
detected early enough the tube will eventually
rupture, which causes severe pain. Surgery is required
to terminate the pregnancy, and sometimes, you may also
lose the fallopian tube. If it's detected early enough,
rupture can often be prevented by medication that
causes the embryo to be reabsorbed. Symptoms include:
pain in the side of the abdomen, and vaginal bleeding.
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:
Can you believe that your baby is now an inch long? That's right,
the average embryo is .9 - 1.2 inches long at this point.
This week, you could now see your baby's external ears. Feet and hands
are continuing to form and the fingers and toes are starting to be visible.
Baby is now moving about, although you probably won't feel this movement
until about your 16th week.
Disclaimer - 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.