Week 27

Now that you're approaching the final stage of pregnancy - your third trimester - your baby is really starting to grow and fill the available space in your uterus. She can now open and close her eyes, sleeps and wakes at regular intervals, and may suck a finger or thumb. Although they're still immature, your baby's lungs will function with some medical help, if she's born prematurely.

Your body is altering rapidly now: your uterus is up near your rib cage and if you're unlucky you may discover the delights of leg cramps, haemorrhoids or varicose veins. (If it's any consolation, they should disappear after the birth.) Labour really isn't far away so if you haven't already signed up for a childbirth class, then find out if there is a space available on a course now.

You're likely to have another antenatal appointment this week and you may have a blood test to check for pregnancy anaemia, a deficiency of red blood cells. Many pregnant women develop a mild case of the illness because of normal changes in the body. If your blood group is Rhesus-negative and you tested negative for Rh antibodies at an earlier appointment, you'll have a further test around now.

Believe it or not, studies have shown that a mum's breastfeeding success has a lot to do with her husband's attitude. If you're a new dad, it's time to bone up on breastfeeding basics so you can provide support after the baby's born. Your wife will need looking after in the first few weeks after the birth so be prepared to help out more around the house and at mealtimes, particularly if she has had a caesarean.

November

I can't believe it's mid-November O-ready, the end of the year suddenly feels so close! :) October feels like it just slipped by so fast!!! Actually, I'm quite please, which means, I can start thinking about Christmas and New Year holidays! :) I'm so excited so see those shops started to decorate their interior with christmas decorations and selling all christmas goods.

However, at the same time, what I missed terribly about winter at this time of the year was spending christmas in the UK... I missed the rain (yeah before it snow, especially at this time of the year it usually very cold and wet with rain), the coldness, my winter gloves, my winter scarf, the snow (of course!), christmas songs(!!!), the colour of red, I missed walking along the streets full with different kind of shops, the winter-christmas mood the english way... Aah, it's just so unbearable.

On the other hand, it suddenly dawn on me that my preganacy suddenly speed by so fast! I'm now officially in my third trimester!!!! :O The horror of thinking about the labour time makes me feels like wanna hide away... Frankly, I'm not sure I'm ready for to face the fact that I have to choose between natural birth or C-sections...(???)

Blue or Pink

Hmmm.... let's see what we've missed out for the past few months of my pregnancy. Looks like I've not been updating my blog during the period of July-August. Therefore, I will be slowly updating you about my past feelings on my pregnancy for the past few months which I've been missing suddenly (my apologies..). Okay, let's began with the most interesting topic on "How the first time I find out about my baby's gender".

Frankly speaking, I’m not big on surprises... but I guess for some parents-to-be they would prefer to wait till the day that their baby is born to know their gender. I also heard that is that feelings of thrill, excitement, suprise, etc.etc... of waiting for 9 months till the moment in the delivery room (when the gyne announce the sex of their new baby).

But for me and my hubby, the thrilled started as early as the first 3 months of my pregnancy, where theorically the baby's gender would be able to be seen through the ultrasound scan and also when people around us starts to know that we are expecting a child, they started to pop out the question to you first thing (after all the congratulations) "what's the gender of your baby?".

So this magical question gradually adds in more and more thrilled to us to wanting to know the gender of our baby. In addition, it's also easier for us in choosing which colour of shirts/bottle/towels/bed sheets/ etc.etc. to buy for our newborn. (FYI, I've waited very very patiently till in my 5th month of pregnancy to buy all those baby stuff. I know it's hard to resist especially when it's your first experience in buying for your baby and you just want all the best stuff you can get for your newborn.)

Okay, let's get back to the story on how we discover the gender of our baby...

So, every once a week, I will let my CM doctor to scan my womb to check if my baby is growing healthily at their given time... I still remember the first time I saw my baby's heartbeat on my CM doctor's screen... it's just a tiny-mini dot blinking in between the lines of black and white screen screaming for attention (!!!)... =)

At first, my CM doctor said to me, "There's the baby's heartbeat..." and I quickly move my attention to his screen and quriously said, " Errmm... where??? I can't see leh.." Then the doctor, enlarge the screen a little and pointed out to me saying, "There!!"... With my relief mind and heart, I said, "Ohh... I saw it... but it's very tiny..?" and then the doctor smile to me. It was the most amazing moment ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! =D to see my little darling's heartbeat beating so quickly and healthily. Dear Father in haven, thank you for this amazing moment you bring to me and my hubby. Please continue to protect my little baby. In Jesus name I pray. Amen. Although my hubby was not there to see it for the first time with me (I think he is somewhere outside the waiting area looking at his PC), I was already overwhelmed... and I hope he could able to see it the next scan.

Then, at about 3rd months, as usual I will let my CM doc scan my tummy to check if the baby is doing ok but this time round, he scanned vigorously like he is looking for something in my womb. I also duno why I didn't asked him what is he looking for... but little did I know that he was trying to find out my baby's gender. However, I was not so eager to find out as I read somewhere that the baby's gender would only appear at aroung the 5th month of pregnancy. But, he could be able to see it on the ultrasound screen that would be great!! Anyway, my CM doc told me he could not be sure... but it's look like a girl to him.

Suddenly, So many things flashed through my head... Is this for real??? (since my doc also cannot be 100% sure of it)... I started to think of pink dress, pink shoes, butterfly hair bows and baby dolls, a lot of soft toys and long hair girls and my ever-evolving relationship with my own mom. As for my husband, he seemed equally in love with and happy, smiling away as we exit the doc's room. But still, while walking through the shopping mall, I was intrigue to buy some pinky stuff for my little princes and suprisingly I was stopped by my dear hubby... He said to me, "Let's wait till the doc is 100% confirmed about the gender of our baby." I was suprise to hear him say that because I tot he is so happy with having a baby girl (???).

Anyway, back at home, somehow, I had this strong feelings that I'm going to expect a baby boy (duno how to explain it but it's just a feeling inside me)... but I said to myself that I will let God to decide for me which baby is best for us. As I pray everyday, I reminded myself to have faith in God and to be grateful with whatever He blessed us with (though I know I'm not those lucky birds to get whatever I wish for in my life).

I have four more weeks until my first ultrasound and I feel like a kid in the month before Christmas, willing away the days until we finally know whether we will have a baby boy or girl. I don’t know how I survived an entire pregnancy in suspense when this short wait is already killing me! There are also alternative routes for those of us determined to find out the sex: The Chinese gender prediction chart is said to be very accurate (I found it in the www) Or you could give one of the many old wives’ tales a spin: If you’re carrying low, you’re having a boy. Craving sweet treats? It’s a girl! If your left breast is bigger than your right, better start buying blue. Of course science (pesky science) disputes most of these, but they’re kind of fun nonetheless! Or you could just trust your mother’s intuition: A study reportedly found that 71% of moms-to-be correctly guessed their baby’s gender all on their own.

Finally, came the day when we visited our ob-gyne (on 29th Sept 2009). As we waited patiently outside the waiting area for our turn... it suddenly our turn (waiting less than 30 mins). After some brief chat with our ob-gyne, she proceed to examine me with the ultrasound scan, my hubby suddenly pop another questions to our gyne... "Can we see the baby's gender yet???" Our ob-gyne then said, "Hmm... it's depends on how co-operative is your baby.." Then she proceed to scanning my baby lower parts and said with firm voice, "It's a boy!". Again, I was suprised (of course couldn't be happier to hear my gyne comment) and wanted to check it out myself at the screen for sure and my gyne show us the evidence.

She continue to say "There's, this is his testical (gyne pointing her finger at the screen)..." My hubby suddenly give me a quick naughty smile... Again, hundreds of things just rush through my head as I'm still get over the fact that I will be having a baby BOY! I could feel my heart dancing with joy as we leave the gyne's room!!!! =D My hubby, however, appear calm... so calm that I asked him whether he is ok (??). He then replied, "I'm equally as happy as you are... and he got a huge dick!" and he continue laughing happily (I think he still is). Yeap, that's what he told me =]

Suddenly, as this message finish dowloading into my head, I was terrified by the thought of raising a son. I heard that boys are hard to manage but nontheless both of us are over joy with the news that the baby is doing fine and we are expecting a baby boy as our first child!

Last but not least, what I would like to say is, at the end of the day, no matter what the gender it is, both of us are thankful to the Almighty Lord for blessing us with this special gift.

Dear Father in Haven, please keep us in faith with You all the time. Please continue to bless us with your wisdom and please continue to guide us through the difficult path in our life. Dear Lord, we want thank you also for all that You've done for us in our life, and we hope you will continue to perfect us in Your way. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Sleep During Pregnancy

In early pregnancy, most women are so tired that they can fall asleep almost anywhere and in any position. Unfortunately, as your pregnancy progresses and you become bigger, finding a comfortable position at any time can be a challenge, especially when even lifting a cup of tea is a major effort.

However, finding the right position can help immensely. Hannah Hulme Hunter suggests ways which make you more comfortable in later pregnancy.

- Try to sleep on your side rather than your back - this is to prevent pressure on the large blood vessel that runs up your back returning blood to your heart which can cause dizziness and fainting.

- If you find it very uncomfortable to lie on your side, tuck a pillow under your back, to one side, so that your body is tilted.

- Alternatively, put a thin pillow - or small cushion, folded towel or rolled baby blanket - in the small of your back whilst lying in bed to give extra support to this area.

- If you'd rather lie over on one side, try placing a pillow in front of your legs and bending your top leg so that it is supported by this pillow.

- Alternatively, you could put a pillow between your legs to keep the legs slightly apart and so reduce strain on the joints of the pelvis.

- Put another small pillow under your bump, to reduce pressure on your abdominal muscles. If all else fails, there's nothing wrong with nodding off in a comfortable armchair.

There are also many maternity cushions and pillows that help make sleep during pregnancy more comfortable. The Doomoo buddy body cushion is available in the Babyworld shop (and provides full length support for your body during pregnancy as well as a feeding cushion after the birth). Also worth a look is the Super size maternity and nursing pillow.

Bump Turbulence
You've got your bladder under control, your body propped with pillows and you're ready to catch up on some much needed sleep when baby decides it's time to play. "Babies have a wake/sleep pattern, just as adults do," says Hannah. "The main difference is that babies in the womb sleep for much shorter periods of time; an hour or so at most, before waking up for a wriggle around." Unfortunately for many pregnant women, many babies seem to move more at bedtime.

This is often because their mothers have recently eaten, or perhaps because this is a time when their mothers are relaxed," Hannah explains. Unfortunately there is little you can do to stop baby moving but it might help to remember the following:

- Your baby's kicking is not a sign of discomfort; it is a sign that she is wide awake, happy and full of energy.

- Enjoy your baby's movements.

- This is a good time for you and your partner to talk to your baby.

The Busy Mind
Many women find that it takes time for them to adapt to the emotional upheaval brought about by pregnancy. You may have many worries, concerns and anxieties both in your everyday life and in your pregnancy and these can suddenly come crashing into your conscious mind just as you're trying to sleep. Hannah says, "Doubts, worries and feelings of excitement that are submerged during the busy-ness of daily life may find expression in dreams, or may keep you awake at night. This may be particularly so if you are waiting the results of antenatal tests, or have other specific causes for concern."

Sleep expert Mary O'Malley says, "Pregnancy brings up positive and negative feelings that you'll digest through your dreams.

"Dreams are also more likely to change in pregnancy because disturbances often disrupt REM sleep, the time when you are dreaming." Hannah also says that often the physical changes of pregnancy are to blame for nightmares.

"For example, indigestion or a full bladder can cause restlessness and discomfort without actually waking you up, resulting in vivid dreams." Try to relax and clear your mind by;

- Learn a simple relaxation technique and practise it frequently.
- Keep a "worry list" by writing down your thoughts and concerns then leave it to deal with in the morning.
- Try to get out and about at least once a day. Physical exercise has proven benefits in terms of relieving tension, clearing the mind, and promoting wellbeing.
- If your workplace had a rest room consider taking a catnap at lunchtime if you really need to catch up on sleep.
- Avoid looking at the clock and try not to get too stressed over your lack of sleep - it'll only make it worse.

Dr Jo Lee adds, "Try not to worry about your sleep pattern. If you can slow down in the daytime, this will make it easier for you to cope while your sleep is disturbed."

Second Trimester

The second trimester of pregnancy consists of weeks 13 to 24. Many women consider this trimester to be easier than the first, in part because the moodiness of early pregnancy sometimes lessens. Although many symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue, begin to disappear, a number of more evident changes will emerge. Common changes and symptoms of the second trimester include:

- Expanding abdomen.

As pregnancy progresses, the uterus becomes heavier and expands to create room for the fetus. By the 12th week of pregnancy, the growing uterus may cause a woman’s abdomen to slightly protrude. In addition, women may gain up to 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms) a month until the end of pregnancy. The uterus will continue to enlarge throughout pregnancy as the expectant mother gains weight and the fetus continues to grow. By the 20th week of pregnancy, the expanding uterus will extend to the level of the navel.
Continued breast growth.

As pregnancy progresses, the breasts begin to prepare for breastfeeding. Estrogen and progesterone stimulate the milk producing glands in the breasts to enlarge. A small amount of fat may also accumulate in the breasts. As a result, there may be as much as 1 pound (454 grams) of breast tissue, and the woman’s bra size may increase up to two cup sizes. The breasts may continue to be tender during this period of the pregnancy. Pregnant women may improve their comfort by wearing proper fitting and supportive bras.
Tingling. Many woman experience tingling and numbness in the fingers during pregnancy. This is due to swelling of tissues in the narrow passages in the wrists. These sensations often disappear after delivery.

- Itchiness
Many women experience itchiness as their pregnancies progress. This is due to hormones and stretching skin in areas such as the abdomen. Some women also develop itchiness and redness on their palms and the soles of their feet. These symptoms usually vanish after delivery. Women may benefit from moisturizing and using soaps for sensitive skin. In addition, women should avoid taking hot showers or baths, which can cause dryness. Since heat rash can worsen itching, women should also avoid becoming overheated. Women experiencing itching in combination with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) or fatigue should contact their obstetrician-gynecologist (ObGyn) immediately. This may be a sign of cholestasis, a condition that indicates a serious liver disorder.

- Nasal problems.

During pregnancy, the lining of the nose and airway may swell as more blood flows to the mucus membranes. This can result in restricted airflow. In addition, hormones affect the tissues of the throat, mouth and nose. As a result, pregnant women may experience snoring, congestion and nosebleeds. Women may benefit from drinking water, sleeping on their sides and using a cool mist humidifier in their bedroom. Although these conditions are typically harmless, women should contact their ObGyn when nosebleeds occur often or continue longer than a few minutes.

- Dizziness.

A woman may experience dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting at any time during her pregnancy. These symptoms may be especially noticeable early in the second trimester. This is due to the additional blood heading toward the uterus and legs and the dilation of blood vessels in response to hormones. Occasional dizziness may occur until the volume of blood expands to fill the vessels. Women may benefit from avoiding prolonged standing, lying on their left side (to relieve pressure on blood vessels) and rising slowly after sitting or lying down. In addition, women should avoid sitting or standing in one position for an extended period of time.

- Leg and foot cramps.

It is common for pregnant women to experience leg cramps during the second and third trimesters. Frequently occurring at night, these cramps may result from the pressure the uterus applies to the veins that return blood from the legs. Changes in circulation and stress on the leg muscles due to carrying additional weight may also be to blame. In addition, cramps may also be due to changes in the way the body metabolizes (processes) calcium. Women may benefit from stretching the affected muscle or walking, and consuming an adequate amount of calcium.

- Vaginal discharge.

Pregnant women may produce a thin, white vaginal discharge (leukorrhea). Consisting of cells from the vaginal lining and normal vaginal moisture, this type of discharge is not a cause for concern although the amount may be greater than before pregnancy. However, women should contact their ObGyn if they produce a strong-smelling green or yellowish vaginal discharge or any vaginal discharge accompanied by redness, itching or irritation. These symptoms may indicate a vaginal infection.

- Bleeding gums.

The increased blood circulation experienced during pregnancy can cause the gums to soften. As a result, a woman may have minor bleeding when she brushes her teeth or flosses. Pregnant women may benefit from flossing daily and brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush. Women experiencing persistent bleeding from the gums should contact their dentist.
Braxton Hicks contractions. During the second trimester, the uterus may begin flexing to build up strength. As a result, a woman may feel contractions in her lower abdomen and groin. These contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are usually painless and unpredictable. Women should immediately contact their ObGyn when contractions become painful or regular. This may be a sign of premature labor.

- Glowing skin.

Pregnant women may experience a “healthy glow” resulting from the increase of blood circulation. In addition, some areas of the skin may continue to increase in pigmentation, including the nipples.

Major developments in the fetus continue to occur during this trimester, including the complete formation of many chief organs, such as the heart. In addition, the mother may be able to feel the fetus move.

Major fetal developments during the second trimester include:

Week 14
The fetus’s gender can often be identified during an ultrasound
The fetus is able to hear

Week 16
The fetus’s fingers are able to grasp
The fetus moves more vigorously, and the mother is able to feel it
The fetus’s body begins to fill out as the result of fat depositing beneath the skin
Hair emerges on the head and skin, including eyebrows and eyelashes
The placenta (the organ that connects the fetus to the uterus to provide oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products) is completely formed

Weeks 23 to 24
The fetus is potentially capable of surviving outside the uterus

For more info please check put this website: http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/pregnancy-basics.html?pageNum=4

Sore Breasts During Pregnancy

Why are my breasts so sore?
When you become pregnant, your body produces higher levels of estrogen and progesterone, the workhorses that help make your pregnancy possible. These hormones prepare your breasts for nursing -- and they can also make them sore and sensitive, just as they are around your period.

Some women find their breasts are so sensitive in the early days of pregnancy that they can't stand having anything touch them, even fabric. Your breasts may also feel heavier than usual, and you may notice more discomfort when you walk or run. You may also notice that your nipples and areolas (the areas around the nipples) are darkening and that your nipples are becoming more prominent. More bluish veins may appear under the skin, an indication of increased blood flow.

All these changes show that your breasts are getting ready to produce milk so you can nurse your baby. Throughout your pregnancy they will increase in size as estrogen and progesterone hormones surge, causing milk ducts to grow, extra blood to flow, and glandular tissue to expand.

How long will the soreness last?
Most women find their breasts are most sore and sensitive very early in pregnancy; in fact, for many women, sore breasts are one of the first signs they are pregnant. The sensitivity will decrease and be much less noticeable during the second and third trimesters. Your breasts will continue growing throughout your pregnancy, however. The increase is more or less noticeable depending on how big your breasts were before, how much weight you gain, and factors such as heredity. It's common to increase as much as two to three bra sizes, although not everyone does.

What can I do to decrease this tenderness?
Try to avoid anything that causes you discomfort. If you don't like your partner touching your breasts during sex right now, say so. If rough fabrics such as woven blouses are irritating, switch to soft knits for the next couple of months.

But the most important thing you can do for your own comfort is find a good, supportive bra. If your bras feel tight and restrictive, go up a size. If underwire bras are bothering you, switch to the soft cup kind. If you can, take the time to get fitted by a lingerie professional in a department store or maternity shop. Maternity bras generally have wider straps for greater support and comfort. They also offer a little more coverage in the cups and extra rows of hooks so you can adjust the bra as your ribs expand with your growing baby.

If you don't have a department or specialty store near you, take the time to measure yourself carefully. If you were a 34B last month, you may be surprised to find you've become a 36C. Make sure you measure around the fullest part of your breast to get your cup size, and just under your arms for the chest size. Your breasts will continue to grow, so be prepared to have another fitting in a few months.

If breast tenderness is bothering you at night as well as during the day, try a sleep bra -- a type of lightweight cotton bra sold primarily at maternity stores -- to protect you while you sleep.

When it comes to exercise, it's even more important to choose a sturdy bra. Invest in a couple of high-quality exercise bras, and you'll be much more comfortable when you work out. Even if you are small-breasted, look for bras that are marked "full support."

Lastly, remember that breast tenderness is primarily a problem in the first trimester. As your hormone levels even out, the unusual sensitivity will decrease and that "don't come near me" feeling will go away.

Ultrasound

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound (also called a sonogram) is a noninvasive diagnostic test that uses sound waves to create a visual image of your baby, placenta, and uterus, as well as other pelvic organs.

It allows your healthcare practitioner to gather valuable information about the progress of your pregnancy and your baby's health.During the test, an ultrasound technician (sonographer) transmits high-frequency sound waves through your uterus that bounce off your baby. A computer then translates the echoing sounds into video images that reveal your baby's shape, position, and movements. The series of television-monitor images is called a sonogram.

The words ultrasound and sonogram are often used interchangeably. (Ultrasound waves are also used in the handheld instrument called a Doppler that your practitioner uses during your prenatal visits to listen to your baby's heartbeat.)

Most moms-to-be have a standard ultrasound when they're between 16 and 20 weeks pregnant. But you may have one as early as 4 or 5 weeks or any time after that if there are signs of a problem. Most people look forward to the midpregnancy ultrasound because it gives them a first glimpse of their baby. The technician will probably present you with a grainy printout of the sonogram as a keepsake. And you may be able to find out your child's sex, if you want to. But the main purpose of the ultrasound is to provide you and your practitioner with important information about your baby's health and development.

If you're having a low-risk pregnancy, however, you might not be offered an ultrasound at all. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends ultrasounds only when there's a specific medical reason.

When will I have my first ultrasound scan?

All women are offered ultrasound scans in pregnancy, but the number and the timing seems to vary considerably between different areas. As a general guide they include:
• an early scan at 6-10 weeks, sometimes using vaginal scanning techniques
• dating scans at about 10-14 weeks
• nuchal translucency scans at around 11-14 weeks
• mid-trimester scans at 18-21 weeks

Some hospitals will also offer private scans for a fee to women who live both locally or outside their area.

Early scan - if you have previously miscarried or you have had bleeding in the first few weeks of this pregnancy, you may be offered an early scan between 6-10 weeks. This is to reassure you and end the uncertainty of not knowing if your pregnancy is OK. This scan may be done using a probe placed inside the vagina, instead of the usual abdominal scanning equipment. This is called "transvaginal ultrasonography". Many hospitals now have early pregnancy clinics which run daily so your midwife can refer you straight away. It's natural to feel a little anxious about having a vaginal scan. If you do feel anxious, you should discuss it with the nurse or sonographer beforehand. It's also a good idea to take someone else along with you. If it helps, you could also ask for a woman to carry out the scan. The vaginal scan will give a clearer picture of your baby earlier in pregnancy than an abdominal scan.

Dating scan - it is now recommended that all pregnant women have a dating scan, ideally at about 10 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. This is needed if you are planning to have blood screening tests for Down's syndrome and/or spina bifida. (It is important to know the exact number of weeks and days of pregnancy at the time the blood test is taken so that the results of the test can be accurately interpreted.) This scan is also a more accurate way of establishing your due date than counting from your last monthly period (LMP). It can also find out if you are having more than one baby.

Nuchal translucency (marker) scans - all women should now be offered a nuchal translucency scan between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy which can estimate the likelihood that your baby has Down's syndrome. It's usually offered as part of the "combined test", which includes the nuchal translucency scan and a blood test to detect the levels of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG)and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A. For a definite diagnosis a diagnostic test, such as amniocentesis, is needed. Not all hospitals have staff trained for this particular skill at present, but it is fast becoming more available in NHS hospitals as an alternative to blood screening tests.

Mid-trimester scan - this scan is offered to all pregnant mums between 18 and 21 weeks. The main purpose of this scan is to examine your baby closely and check for abnormalities. The scan can show your baby in fine detail. You will be able to see movements and some hospitals will tell you the sex of your baby if you wish to know. So when is the best time to have a scan? This is going to depend on your own individual situation and on what's available in your local area.

If you have reason to be worried about your pregnancy in the early weeks, then an early scan may be a good idea. If you are not sure of your due date, or you are planning to have blood screening tests, you may need to have a dating scan. If nuchal scans are available near you (either on the NHS or privately), you may choose to have one of these at around 12 weeks. It may be that the only scan you need or want during your pregnancy is the mid-trimester scan at around 20 weeks.

Early Pregnancy Symptom Discharge

While in her early stages of pregnancy itself, a woman may notice a vaginal secretion and wonder what it is. This is early pregnancy symptom discharge.

Known as leucorrhea, the vaginal discharge is an odorless or mild-smelling milky discharge that you can see appear in your underwear because of increased estrogen production and greater blood flow to the vaginal area. Made up of secretions from the cervix and vagina, old cells from the walls of the vagina, and normal bacterial flow from the vagina, the discharge is a valuable aid to detecting early pregnancy symptoms.

While the vaginal discharge may be common even before pregnancy, it is during pregnancy that the secretion increases in flow. The process by which the flow increases occurs in the following manner.

In very early pregnancy, cervical secretions fill your cervical canal and create a protective barrier -a device known as mucus plug. As your cervix begins to thin out and dilate, it may expel this mucus, and you'll notice discharge that looks like egg white or mucus resembling discharge from a runny nose. You may even expel the plug in one gelatinous glob. This discharge might have some amount of blood in it.

Is Vaginal Discharge Clean? If the early pregnancy symptom discharge is thin and clear and then there is a lot of it, you may actually be leaking out amniotic fluid, a suspicion you can dispel by consulting your doctor. While cervical mucus could be early pregnancy discharge, it could also be normal vaginal discharge, yeast infection discharge, or ovulation discharge. The ovulation discharge usually looks like egg whites, and can resemble a slight creamy textured discharge that you may not even notice.

Vaginal discharge can look alarming if even when you are at your 37th week and you notice an increase in discharge or a change in the type of discharge, and it begins to look like a watery, mucus-like, or bloody secretion. This could be a sign of preterm labor.

Another time to get alarmed is when you suspect that you have an infection, when the discharge causes you discomfort such as itching or burning-or your vulva looks inflamed. The discharge you are emitting could also be foul-smelling, or frothy or yellow, and it may be time to get a thorough check-up of yours done.

Also, there's nothing when the discharge is being emitted, for you to do but consult a physician if it is seriousl. Otherwise, you can do nothing to stop the flow. You can take some care-giving tips for yourself or precautions, such as keeping your genital area clean, wearing cotton underwear, and avoiding fancy deodorants, scented pads or toilet paper in the area. Early pregnancy symptom discharge should not be allowed to become a cause for panic or misery.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

Learn what foods to eat and what to avoid during pregnancy to ensure a happy, healthy environment for your unborn baby!

~ Pregnancy is a time of joy and exhilaration.~

As a concerned parent, you want to do everything possible to ensure the well being and safety of your baby. Thus, it is vital that you eat a well balanced diet in order to ensure that your child is given every opportunity to grow and develop normally, right from the start!

Keep in mind that while your caloric needs increase slightly during pregnancy (to the tune of about 300 calories, or the amount of calories in a cup of yogurt and 1/2 a bagel), pregnancy is not a license to eat everything in sight! Moderation is critical to the health and well being of your baby. Remember during your pregnancy that everything that goes into your mouth will also reach your baby at some point. Because of this, it is vital that you eat foods that are nutrient dense and safe.

There are several foods that may pose a potential risk to your unborn fetus. It is important that you recognize the potential dangers of certain food products and avoid them during your pregnancy.

Foods to AvoidThere are several foods that may pose a risk to your baby. These include:

1. Raw Meat: You may have been a fan of a good 'beef carpaccio' or round of sushi before pregnancy, but be sure to avoid raw or undercooked meat at all costs during your pregnancy. 'Rare' is simply not an option while pregnant. Why? Rare meats may contain bacteria, toxoplasmosis and Salmonella, all of which are harmful to your unborn baby. You are twice as likely to experience food poisoning while pregnant, so be sure to ask for your meat prepared well.

2. Deli Meats: A sandwich is harmless right? Wrong! Prepared meats, such as those available at a deli counter, including hot dogs or turkey, beef and chicken preparations, should not be consumed unless you re-heat them until steaming. Why? These preparations may be contaminated with a substance called Listeria. These bacteria can harm your baby severely, and may even cause miscarriage or result in a stillborn delivery. Listeria is nothing to joke about, thus it is vital that you avoid the deli counter while pregnant.

3. Imported Soft Cheeses: Like deli meat, imported unpasteurized cheeses including blue cheese, feta, Brie or camembert should be avoided. These may also contain Listeria. However, soft cheeses that are made with pasteurized milk are safe to eat. It is important to check out the label. If you are not sure whether or not a product is pasteurized, you should in general avoid it.

4. Undercooked eggs: Raw eggs or undercooked eggs have the potential to contain Salmonella. Raw eggs are often included in many commercial products including Egg Nog and some forms of Caesar salad dressing. Be sure to check out the labels before you consume any of these products. Signs of salmonella food poisoning may include: fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. When indulging in eggs during your pregnancy, keep the following in mind:
>>Keep eggs always refrigerated until cooked.
>>Do not use cracked eggs.
>>Wash all utensils after contact with raw eggs.
>>Eat eggs immediately after cooking.
>>Foods containing eggs should be refrigerated.
>>Do not eat dishes that contain Hollandaise Sauce or Caesar Salads which uses raw eggs.

5. Fish: While eating fish can be beneficial during your pregnancy, there are certain types of fish that you should avoid. These include shark, swordfish, king mackerel, excess tuna and tile fish, as all of these contain high levels of mercury, which can affect your unborn child's nervous system. Generally it is safe to eat 12 ounces of other fish including :

- salmon and tilapia, which are full of nutritious benefits.

- Canned tuna should also be avoided due to high levels of mercury contamination.

6. Caffeine: While a small amount of caffeine (1 small cup a day) may provide a much needed lift for pregnant moms, in general caffeine should be avoided during pregnancy. High amounts of caffeine consumption have been linked with birth defects and increased risks of miscarriage. Remember that caffeine is present in many every day food items including chocolate, tea and soda. To play it safe you should avoid caffeine entirely during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy to reduce the likelihood of miscarriage. Daily caffeine intake of more than four to seven cups of coffee a day appears to double the risk of spontaneous miscarriage.

7. Alcohol: Alcohol is harmful to your baby's development. Alcohol will cross the placenta and affect your baby, so every time you drink when you are pregnant your baby does to. If you are pregnant and have been drinking alcohol, stop now! There is no determined level of alcohol consumption that is considered safe during pregnancy. Daily consumption of alcohol in early pregnancy might lead to a condition called fetal alcohol syndrome.

It is important during pregnancy to learn which foods are safe to eat and which foods you should avoid. By doing so you will provide the best possible environment for your baby to grow and develop in. A healthy pregnancy depends on a healthy diet.

For the best possible health benefits, talk to your health care provider about a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals from fresh food sources. With a bit of planning and encouragement, you can learn to plan wonderful, tasty meals that will satisfy your cravings and benefit the health of your unborn child as well.

First Trimester

Congratulations, you're pregnant! Although it may seem early, there are plenty of things you'll need to do during your first trimester -- like eating well and getting lots of sleep. Schedule your first prenatal visit with your practitioner when you're about nine weeks along. Plan on seeing your practitioner every four weeks.

- Avoid alcohol, drugs and cigarettes.
- If your immunizations are not up to date, let your practitioner know.
- Drink lots of fluids, especially water (8 to 10 glasses a day).
- Stick to a diet naturally high in folic acid (oranges, melons and dark green vegetables).
- Eat plenty of iron-rich foods (whole grains, beans, raisins and nuts).
- Keep your blood sugar level elevated by eating lots of high-protein and high-carbohydrate foods such as breads, brown rice, potatoes and cheese.
- As a general rule, avoid medication and consult with your doctor before taking any.
- Get plenty of sleep, and try to nap if you feel tired during the day.
- Exercise, but moderately. Don't start a new exercise regimen when you're pregnant, and be careful not to become overheated for prolonged periods.
- If you're a coffee drinker, cut back, switch to decaf or try herbal or decaffeinated tea.
- If your family has a history of genetic disorders, consider prenatal testing.
- Start budgeting for your new life with baby.
- Choose a place to give birth (hospital? birthing center? home?).
- Consider starting a pregnancy diary and having someone take a picture of you (and your expanding belly) each month.
- Refrain from getting perms, dyes and other hair treatments involving heavy chemicals.
- Get smart -- buy a few pregnancy books and dive in.