Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Pregnancy- A Time To Be Cherished

What is pregnancy? Scientifically explained, pregnancy means the carrying of an offspring known as the fetus or the embryo in the female body. The field of medicine that deals with pregnancy is called Obstetrics. Pregnancy lasts about nine months and childbirth occurs 38 weeks after fertilization. The scientific term for pregnancy is Gravid and a woman who is pregnant for the first time is referred to as primigravida.

Pregnancy is one of the most exciting events of a woman’s life. Medical advances have ensured that that most pregnancies today are safe and the baby is born healthy. Still, you may have a hundred and one questions about pregnancy. Read a lot of good books and magazines to help you with the information you may require.

It is during pregnancy, that most changes take place in you, emotional, physical, and mental. Understanding these changes can enhance this time of your life, making it pleasantly unforgettable. You may also want to take pictures at every stage of pregnancy and keep a journal as well. Keep a journal and record every little movement that the baby makes within you and every new feeling. It makes the experience of pregnancy that much more real.

What is the best time to get pregnant? What do you eat during pregnancy? In what posture should you sleep, should you exercise or not? Can you go swimming? These questions need to be answered. Our Website will give you all the answers as we offer you a systematic guide into the most rewarding nine months of your life.

So go ahead, cherish those nine beautiful months of pregnancy, and do not forget to take the pregnancy quiz we have put together for you. Here is wishing you a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Excessive Weight Gain During Pregnancy- Its Disadvantages

Weight Gain During Pregnancy Is Necessary

Remember that, during pregnancy, average weight gain is not only natural but also a necessity. Excessive Weight gain during pregnancy may be unwise, but weight gain during pregnancy serves a purpose, that of giving birth to a normal healthy baby. For a pregnant woman, it is must to know that weight gain for an average sized person during pregnancy is 25-35 pounds and for an obese person is 15 pounds.

Take Professional Guidance

If you are unsure about the amount of weight you are gaining or think it is too much, you should consult your health care professional. He will advise you on how much weight you should gain and he may even put you on to a good dietician, who will help you plan a diet for you and the baby.

Eat A Well Balanced Diet

It is also important that you eat a balanced diet during pregnancy. You should include a variety of foods in your diet. Milk and milk products, freshly cooked green leafy vegetables, pulses, whole grains and cereals and your daily dose of vitamins are important. You do not need to overeat, just because you are pregnant. Usually, the calorie intake of a pregnant mother increases by just 300 calories over and above her regular calorie intake.

The Disadvantages Of Excessive Weight Gain

The amount of weight you gain during pregnancy is important. The doctor may not be as concerned about excessive weight gain during pregnancy, as opposed to excessive weight loss. But there are problems with excessive weight gain too. You could have an obese baby, which is unhealthy, you may have to go in for a cesarean birth, your excessive weight may depress you, and finally, you may find it difficult to shed all those excess pounds after pregnancy.

The best way to avoid excessive weight gain during pregnancy is to eat healthy. You may also consider devising a good diet plan with the help of a dietician. You should also read magazines books and any other information about managing your weight, to have a healthy and safe pregnancy.