Know the signs of preterm labor and what to do if you notice them A typical pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. Occasionally, however, labor begins prematurely because uterine contractions can cause the cervix to open earlier than normal. Babies born before week 37 of pregnancy are considered premature: Premature: Between 32-37 weeks Very premature: …
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How Long Is Recovery After C-Section?
Cesarean deliveries make up for an estimated 31.9 percent of all deliveries in the United States. Recovery after cesarean delivery can take as long as one and a half months. Cesarean deliveries make up for an estimated 31.9 percent of all deliveries in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recovery after cesarean delivery can …
Read More »Pain Relief for Childbirth: Epidural, Anesthesia & Side Effects
Women respond differently to the pain of labor and delivery. Pain control options during labor and delivery are a personal choice, and a birth plan can typically be individualized according to a woman's wishes. The circumstances of labor and individual medical conditions can sometimes determine what pain relief options are needed. Available medical pain control options range from pain control …
Read More »How Long Is the Postpartum Period? Recovery Timeline
The time taken to recover after childbirth can vary with each woman. It can take longer for a first-time mother to recover. A woman may usually take longer to recover after cesarean delivery compared to vaginal delivery. The first six weeks after giving birth is called the postpartum period. During the postpartum period, the mother experiences several changes including physical …
Read More »How Much Weight Should You Gain Each Trimester? Charts
Most women with normal BMI gain about 22 to 28 pounds during pregnancy. However, while expecting twins, the recommended weight gain is higher. Pregnancy is a unique time during which the body undergoes multiple changes. Pregnant women experience changes in their moods, skin, joints, and body weight. The weight gain occurs as the result of the added weight of the …
Read More »What Are Some Uncommon Signs of Early Pregnancy (Week 1)?
The first week of the pregnancy is when the egg has been released from the ovum The first week of the pregnancy is when the egg has been released from the ovum, the egg then combines with sperm and conception occurs. Progesterone and estrogen hormones, which are a part of the normal menstrual cycle, rise dramatically. A new hormone called …
Read More »What Is the Karyotype of Trisomy 18?
The karyotype in trisomy 18 is abnormal, with 3 copies of chromosome 18 instead of 2 The karyotype, or collection of chromosomes, in a baby with trisomy 18 (Edwards’ syndrome) is abnormal. An extra chromosome exists in some or all of the body's cells because instead of two copies, they have three copies of chromosome 18. This affects the growth …
Read More »When Should You Be Worried About Fetal Movement?
During your third trimester, you should be able to feel about 10 fetal movements within 2 hours Feeling your baby move for the first time can be thrilling. It’s a sign that there’s really life in there! During your third trimester, you should be able to feel about 10 fetal movements within 2 hours. But keep in mind that each …
Read More »Pregnancy Symptoms & Stages Week by Week
Facts you should know about pregnancy week to week* A typical pregnancy lasts for 40 weeks. *Pregnancy facts medical author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD A normal pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks and is grouped into three stages, or trimesters. Symptoms and early signs of pregnancy that begin in the first semester include: The absence of menstrual periods Breast changes including …
Read More »Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy: 8 Effects on Baby
Facts you should know about hypothyroidism during pregnancy Readers Comments 6 Share Your Story Pregnant women who are on thyroid hormone should have frequent blood testing. Hypothyroidism, wherein the thyroid gland produces an inadequate amount of thyroid hormone, is a common disorder, particularly in women of childbearing age. Hypothyroidism of the mother during pregnancy may result in developmental delay in …
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