Ch. 5.1 Notes A Healthy Pregnancy

Early Signs of Pregnancy Missed period A full feeling or mild ache in lower abdomen Feeling tired or faint Frequent need to urinate Swollen breasts Nausea/vomiting If you believe you are pregnant take a pregnancy TEST

Medical Care During Pregnancy See obstetrician (obgyn): a doctor who specializes in pregnancy and childbirth Work as a team; have primary doctor but meet others b/c you do not know who will be on call to deliver the baby Set a fee for all services provided throughout pregnancy (make a small payment at each prenatal visit)

Discomforts of Pregnancy Nausea/vomiting Sleepiness (due to hormonal changes) Heartburn: burning feeling in upper abdomen Shortness of breath: pressure on lungs from baby Varicose veins: pressure on blood vessels in the legs Lower back pain

Possible Serious Complications: REPORT TO DOCOTR IMMEDIATELY *Vaginal bleeding *Prolonged backache *Unusual weight gain or loss*Blurred vision or dizziness *Excessive thirst *Increased vaginal mucus *Severe abdominal pain *Fever *Persistent headache *Severe vomiting *Swelling of the face, hands or ankles *Diminished need to urinate or pain during urination

Physical Changes Common length of pregnancy = 40 weeks Lightening: happens towards the end of 40 weeks, baby shifts downward and mother feels more comfortable in upper abdomen Baby should be in head down position Breech position = seat down position Cesarean section (c-section)

Daily Routines Eat a healthful diet Get plenty of rest Exercise-moderate (walking, biking) Practice good hygiene Maternity cloths Comfortable allow for movement Consider how it will fit during the 9th month of pregnancy

Emotional Health During Pregnancy Depression: emotional and physical stresses lead to deep and lasting feelings of sadness Seek a support system Stress: Avoid sugary foods and caffeine Exercise Take a time-out Practice relaxation techniques Talk about concerns Take a class for expectant parents

E.) Nutrition During Pregnancy: Single most important requirement 1.) The role of Nutrients Proteins: growth and development of bones and teeth Vitamins: take a vitamin supplement, involved in many body processes Minerals: help produce strong bones and teeth and ensure regular elimination of waste from the body Carbohydrates and fats: provide body with energy and perform many functions that keep the body running smoothly

2.) Making Wise Food Choices: high in nutrients Focus on fruit Vary your veggies Get your calcium rich foods Make half your grains whole Go lean with protein

3.) Nutrition and Pregnant and Teens Have special nutrient needs because their bodies are still developing Must be particularly careful to eat nutritious meals Calcium essential for growing bones Iron to carry oxygen to every part of the body

4.) Special Diets Lactose intolerance: get calcium from other non-dairy foods or eat dairy foods in small amounts Vegetarians: eat soy, tofu, dried beans and nuts to get protein

5.) Weight Gain During Pregnancy Typically gain 24-30lbs. First 3 months, might be no weight gain, gain 1 lb. a month 4-6 months gain ½ lb. a week Gaining too little weight can increase the risk of fetal death or premature birth

G. Emotional Health During Pregnancy Major event in a couples life Family and friends = support system Hormonal changes (feel upset/worried) Depression If you feel overwhelmed seek help