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Rule Number One: There is no such thing as a perfect pregnancy.
Rule Number Two: There are only two types of pregnancy -- normal and high risk. Rule Number Three: Expect to live under the watchful eye of a health care provider if you fall into either of these two categories.
Unless you have a mid-wife, you will need to visit an obstetrician who will first want to know if there really is someone growing inside your body. Once your pregnancy is confirmed, it is important to reveal all there is to know about your and your family’s medical history.
Your doctor will also want to know if you have a record of irritable bowel disease, diabetes, thyroid, or other health-related problems. You will be given a comprehensive exam that will look for and rule out issues like anemia, sexually-transmitted diseases and the virus that causes AIDS.
Although some women may consider a Pap smear a bit uncomfortable, no prenatal care is satisfactory without one. An ultrasound may be performed that will not only document a normal-appearing fetus and any other surprises (like twins), but establish a more accurate due date. Don’t be surprised if two ultrasounds are taken within 20 weeks.
During this most important stage of your pregnancy, your blood pressure, weight and urine values for sugar and protein will be recorded each time you visit your doctor. It is within these delicate 12 weeks that up to 20% of all diagnosed pregnancies end up miscarrying due to hereditary
accidents at conception. So during this fragile time, it is important to admit any history that may help the rest of your pregnancy. Remain alert to miscarriage scares.
Any cramping or morning sickness you may have experienced during the first 12 weeks should be over by the time you enter the Second Trimester. You’re now getting used to being pregnant, so you should be feeling much better. New and strange pains will normally come and go as your baby grows. Mark your calendar because this stage will be a memorable one. At about 18 weeks, you will actually feel your little one move.
The Third Trimester is the longest and most aggravating one. You may wonder if you’re carrying an elephant. But we all know an elephant carries its young for nearly two years. In other words,count your blessings. Keep in mind that a due date is only an estimation; your baby will see you when he or she is ready. In the meantime, expect to see your doctor every two to three weeks following your 24th week. After your 36th week, your visits will become weekly.
Your physician or a nurse will check your cervix for change. Additional ultrasounds may be important at this time if you’re two weeks past your due date. It is critical that you follow your doctor’s orders and not listen to “old wive’s tales,” any negative opinions, or nightmarish birth stories.
You are embarking on a wonderful and joyous experience -- one that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Congratulations and happy memories!
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