PREGNANCY

To get pregnant is something many women dream of, but unfortunately not everyone have the big pleasure to get pregnant. If you want to opt your chances, then there are precautions you can take. Remember to involve your spouse into tis, because starting a family is nothing you do on your own. Having a child is a dream for many couples. For some, it is very easy to become pregnant. For others, it takes over a year. And for still some others, they never get pregnant. Getting pregnant is not easy, but often a dream that can come true.

During pregnancy, the woman's body will change. Every week, something new will happen and you will get closer to get to know your body. Pregnancy is a very special situation, so be sure that you enjoy it. Pregnancy is measured in trimesters from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) and normally lasts about 40 weeks, from conception to the birth of a baby. This time is roughly divided into 3 periods: the first trimester, second trimester and third trimester.

1st Trimester:
     Your body undergoes many changes during first trimester of your pregnancy. Missing your period is a clear sign of this. As changes happen, you may need to make adjustments in your usual routine such as going to bed earlier and eating frequent, small meals.Wearing loosely fitting clothes may also be needed for comfort. Other changes may include: tiredness, morning sickness, mood swings, cravings or aversion to certain foods, more frequent urination, tenderness of breasts and headache.
You need to eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables, and food with fiber to make sure your bowel movements are regular. Drinking lots of water is also needed. Having the essential vitamins in your body is a must. During pregnancy, your body's requirements for these increases, so you may need to take supplements to meet your body's need.

2nd Trimester:
     The second trimester of pregnancy is usually easier than the first. You may notice that aside from having more energy, some symptoms like tiredness and nausea are going away. Your belly expands as your baby grows. And before this trimester ends, you will feel your baby move. Some changes include: swelling of the ankles, itching on the abdomen, palms and feet, numb or tingling hands, aches on the back, abdomen and thighs, darkening of the areola, more frequent urination, tenderness of breasts and headache.
     Make sure you continue filling all your dietary requirements. Your need for iron increases, so you might need a daily supplement to avoid anemia, as this may harm the baby if severe, and may make you more tired than usual. Try to eat foods rich in iron like lean, red meats, leafy green vegetables, dried fruits and beans. Calcium is also important for you and your baby's bones, teeth, heart and muscles to be strong. An easy way to include calcium in your diet is to take dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt.

3rd Trimester:
     Some of the discomforts you had in your second trimester will continue. Because the baby is getting bigger, breathing may be difficult and you may need to go to the bathroom more frequently. Some changes may include: heartburn, swelling of the ankles, fingers and face, hemorrhoids, trouble in sleeping and uterine contractions.
     Remember to reduce your food intake now. Take small, light meals and snacks as part of your diet. Drinking plenty of water is also needed.
     Now that your baby is just about ready to be born, it is important to prepare for a worry-free delivery before labor pain takes place. You need sufficient exercise and physical movement throughout the day, including time for meditation and relaxation. Also, keep in mind that your due date is only an estimate so be ready to go to the hospital anytime now. If you haven't packed your bag yet, now is the time to do it.