What Are Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Many people notice symptoms early in their pregnancy, but others may not have any symptoms at all.
Common signs and symptoms of pregnancy can include:
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Missed period
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Constipation
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Peeing more often than usual
Some early pregnancy symptoms can sometimes feel like other common conditions . So the only way to know for sure if youre pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. You can either take a home pregnancy test , or get a pregnancy test at your doctors office or local Planned Parenthood Health Center.
What To Buy Moms
Rachel Gurevich is a fertility advocate, author, and recipient of The Hope Award for Achievement, from Resolve: The National Infertility Association. She is a professional member of the Association of Health Care Journalists and has been writing about womens health since 2001. Rachel uses her own experiences with infertility to write compassionate, practical, and supportive articles.
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Verywell / Sabrina Jiang
“She’s seen a diaper bag and a diaper backpack, but she’ll truly experience hands-free toting with a minimalist diaper fanny pack.”
Pregnancy is a time to celebrate both the mom-to-be and the new baby. Whether this is the moms first child or not, every pregnancy is special, and commemorating that time with a gift will make the expecting mom feel loved.
From baby showers to a thinking of you present, here are the best gifts to buy for expecting moms.
Can You Get Pregnant At Any Time Of The Month
It is not possible to get pregnant at anytime of the month. You must be ovulating in order to conceive. This means that you should have sex in the days leading to and around ovulation. The two to three days before ovulation and the day you ovulate are most fertile days .
You must, however, understand that fertile days do not necessarily mean that everything is functioning well.
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What To Say To Someone Whos Pregnant
Follow, Congratulations with an open-ended question, none better than, How are you doing?, with the focus on the you. Your job is to listen and respond accordingly. If shes happy, give her, Thats fantastic. If youre close, you can add, Youre going to be a great mom, because youre so , with specifics, or, You look really great. She might blow it off, but it might prep her for whats to come or remind her of her strengths. Kind words are kind words, if its her first pregnancy or her fifth, McBain says.
Just rein in your impulse to go on and on. The assumption is people care what you went through and that theyre interested, says Dr. Dana Dorfman, psychotherapist in New York City and co-host of the 2 Moms on the Couch podcast. She may not be. Let her steer the conversation. Thats what women want. They want to be heard, pregnant or not, Bartlett says. They want to have space held for them. They dont want their problems solved.
Dorfman adds that you can acknowledge this explicitly with, I know this is a touchy subject but my intentions are to be supportive. I have my own experiences and some funny stories. Let me know if you want me to share. If she seems open, you can even offer up you or your partner for herself or her partner. She might not take any of it, but youre conveying two things: Its an individual experience, and that shes not alone.
What If You Have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome , a hormonal disorder, is one of the most common reasons for female infertility. It affects between 6% and 12% of American women of reproductive age.
There is no single test to identify PCOS, but a doctor will determine if a woman fulfills two of the following three criteria,the CDC said:
- Irregular periods or no periods, caused from lack of ovulation
- Higher than normal levels of male hormones that may result in excess hair on the face and body, acne or thinning scalp hair
- Multiple small cysts on the ovaries
It is not clear why some women develop this syndrome, although it is often diagnosed when they struggle to get pregnant.
There is a strong link between PCOS-related infertility and weight. About 40% to 60% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese, and healthy eating and exercise have been shown to improve reproductive problems in women with PCOS, according to a 2019 article in the journal Therapeutic Advcances in Reproductive Health. A number of prescribed medications may also induce ovulation and regulate insulin levels, such asletrozole and metformin. High levels of insulin push thepituitary gland to release large amounts of hormones thatdisrupt ovulation.
Doctors recommend in-vitro fertilization if other interventions have not worked, or as a primary treatment if monitoring, cost and accessibility are not issues.
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Belly Armor Belly Band
This is a really special gift option for the pregnant lady in your life. Over the last decade, our exposure to WiFi radiation has grown to gigantic proportions. I know in our house we have eight devices constantly connected to WiFi and we’re totally surrounded by these invisible waves without a clue what they’re doing to us.
There’s growing evidence that WiFi radiation may contribute to a number of issues, including:
- Fertility problems
- Developmental effects in children
- Increased cancer risk
I was more than surprised to receive this belly band as a gift during my last pregnancy, but I actually felt reassured when wearing it . It felt good to know that my baby wasn’t being zapped by potentially dangerous EMF waves.
Belly Armor’s belly band is worn under your clothing. And just like other belly bands, you can use it to hold up unzipped jeans and cover your tum. The soft fabric is comfortable and it’s also lightweight and non-sweaty. There’s no way you’d know there’s anything special about it or that there’s a load of science going on within the fabric. I have the belly band in black, but you can also buy it in beige or hot pink.
Have a look at Belly Armor’s belly band and see what you think. One thing I can tell you is that most moms-to-be would be really happy to know they’re giving their baby another layer of protection. Surprise her with this thoughtful and practical gift.
The soft-form maternity support belt is practical but she’ll love it.
Practical And Luxurious Gifts For Moms
Struggling to find the perfect birthday gift for the pregnant lady in your life? Whether you’re buying for your pregnant wife, daughter or girlfriend, you can rest assured that your struggle is over.
In this article, you’ll find seven highly recommended gifts for moms-to-be, any one of which is guaranteed to make her feel extra special now and in the coming months. I’ve used all of these items, and they’re all on my list of must-haves for a happy, healthy and relaxed pregnancyfor mom and baby. Every single one of the gift ideas here is both practical and luxurious, and they won’t hurt your finances either.
Luxury maternity and nursing pajamas can be very comforting after the long and tiresome birthing process.
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How To Get Pregnant If You Have Endometriosis
Endometriosis is another common reproductive condition, affecting more than one in 10 women in the United States. It occurs when tissue found in the uterus grows in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes.
Even mild endometriosis can reduce fertility, while severe endometriosis can distort a woman’s pelvic anatomy and, for example, block her fallopian tubes, according to a 2015 study in The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of India.
It is still possible for a woman with endometriosis to become pregnant, and, once pregnant, the pregnancy is expected to be no different to that of a woman without endometriosis. Medical treatment through drugs does not improve fertility, according to Endometriosis UK, an endometriosis-focused charity. These medications involve regulating a person’s hormones, and can slow the growth of endometrial tissue and prevent new pieces from developing, said the Mayo Clinic. But because these drugs are based on hormones , they actively stop a woman from getting pregnant.
Endometriosis presents differently in different women, so its treatment depends on the individual,according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Surgery to excise the endometrial and scar tissue may improve fertility rates and help reduce pain associated with endometriosis, researchers reported in the 2015 study in TheJournal of Obstetrics and Gynecology of India.
What Our Testers Say
“We thought this monitor offered solid video quality. We were able to see the feed clearly throughout the day and night thanks to the aforementioned night vision. As for audio, we could also hear clearly, even with the volume turned to low. Though, the monitors range is an area that could use improvement. While one of the pricier monitors out there, the performance and features make this a solid investment for your nursery.” Michelle Piccolo, Verywell writer and product tester
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Increased Risk Of Severe Illness
If you are pregnant or were recently pregnant, you are more likely to get severely ill from COVID-19 compared to people who are not pregnant. Pregnancy causes changes in the body that could make it easier to get very sick from respiratory viruses like the one that causes COVID-19. These changes in the body can continue after pregnancy.
Severe illness means that a person with COVID-19 may need:
- Hospitalization
- Intensive care
- A ventilator or special equipment to help them breathe
People with COVID-19 who become severely ill can die. See why pregnancy is included in the list of underlying medical conditions that increase a persons risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Where To Go For Help
Start with your GP. They can provide you with pre-conception advice and tests, and if youâve been trying for a while without success, they may conduct some fertility tests.
Your GP can also help you with advice on making the appropriate adjustments to your lifestyle, and help you work out which days of the month you are most fertile, to give you the best chances of getting pregnant. There are also apps and information online which can help you work out your âfertility windowâ.
Your GP can also refer you to a fertility specialist for further testing and discussion around your treatment options. You may be referred to a private clinic or a public hospital.
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A Pair Of Fluffy Slippers
Choosing thoughtful gifts for a pregnant friend often means putting yourself in their shoes. Or in this case, slippers! Were wild about this fluffy pair that feels sumptuously soft. This present is a great way to encourage pregnant friends to put their feet up.
Buy it: Rachel Parcell Faux Fur Slipper, $29, Nordstrom.com
What To Say To People With Opinions About Your Pregnancy
Pregnancy is that time in a woman’s life when her entire life seems to be changing. Not only is her body experiencing lots of changes in a very short period of time, but the realization that her life will never be the same starts to set in as well.
For this reason, many expectant mothers may question their abilities as a parent or start to wonder if they have what it takes. This can create high levels of anxiety, especially if they are also being bombarded with ideas, information, and suggestions on everything from breastfeeding and cloth diapers to what to eat and whether they should stay at home.
As a result, it is not surprising that, while sometimes well-intentioned, the unsolicited pregnancy advice that others dole out without thinking can start to make an expectant mom’s head spin. If you frequently find yourself in this situation, rest assured you are not alone. Every pregnant woman has experienced some unsolicited advice at least once during her pregnancy.
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How Do I Increase My Chances Of Getting Pregnant
One of the best ways to increase your chances of getting pregnant is knowing what days you ovulate , and planning vaginal sex or insemination around those days.
Everyones body is different, but ovulation usually happens about 14 days before your period starts. An egg lives for about 1 day after its released , and sperm can live in the body for about 6 days after sex. So people are usually fertile for around 7 days of every menstrual cycle: the 5 days before you ovulate, and the day you ovulate. You can also get pregnant a day or 2 after ovulation, but it’s less likely.
Some people have very regular cycles, and some peoples cycles vary from month to month. Many people track their menstrual cycles and other fertility signs to help them figure out when theyre ovulating. This is called fertility awareness some people use it to prevent pregnancy, and others use it to try to get pregnant.
You can use a fertility chart to keep track of your cycle and when youre most fertile . There are apps that can make it easy to chart your cycle and figure out your fertile days.
You can also use ovulation predictor kits urine tests that tell you when youre ovulating. You can buy ovulation predictor tests in the drugstore, usually near the pregnancy tests. Ovulation predictor tests look for a hormone called luteinizing hormone, which increases in your body right before you ovulate.
Kindred Bravely Pajamas And Loungewear
The ginormous part of pregnancy only lasts a few months. A few, seemingly never-ending, months. So maybe go with something that can pull double duty through pregnancy and into postpartum? I wanted nothing more after expelling an entire human than to curl up in some cozy jammies . Shown here is the sleep bra paired with the everyday joggers.
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Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor
An award-winning video monitor, this lightweight and portable set will give mom peace of mind. The mom-to-be can skip the confusing set-up process with this plug-and-play model. With special features like two-way talk, a remote thermometer, night vision, and more, keeping an eye on the baby will be a breeze.
A Harmony Ball Necklace
Looking for a standout gift for a pregnant friend? This necklace is really special. Steeped in tradition, the harmony ball charm contains a bell thats said to soothe baby in the womb. Each sterling silver necklace is artisan-made in Bali. Plus, you can customize the charm with your friends initials. This gift definitely has the wow-factor.
Buy it: Et Cetera Design Harmony Ball Sterling Silver Necklace, from $72, Etsy.com
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Bumps First Christmas T
This t-shirt can be a humorous way to let others know a baby is on its way. Whether its a holiday party or a Christmas-themed pregnancy announcement, this shirt will make it clear whats around the corner.
This shirt is lightweight, stretchy, and made from cotton. Its made in the United States and satisfaction is guaranteed. This piece is machine washable but should be hung to dry.
Why We Keep Accidentally Getting Pregnant
A fundamental misunderstanding about the nature of sex and the function of birth control appears to underlie the countrys remarkable rate of unwanted pregnancies.
A fundamental misunderstanding about the nature of sex and the function of birth control appears to underlie the countrys remarkable rate of unwanted pregnancies.
Thirty-seven percent of babies born in the U.S. are the result of unplanned pregnancies. The National Survey of Family Growth, released this week by the CDC and the National Center for Health Statistics, suggests a number of possibilities for why this is, all of which merit further attention. But the leading reason that women eschewed birth control? They did not think they would get pregnant.
Because the survey looks only at unintended births and not unintended pregnancies that ended in miscarriage or abortion this means that there are 290,000 babies born each year to mothers who believed their coming into existence was a statistical improbability. Other data has indicated that 60 percent of women who gave birth to unplanned babies had not used contraception when they became pregnant the survey indicates that a majority of them must misunderstand either the connection between sex and childbirth or how strongly correlated the two actually are, seeing pregnancy instead as an it cant happen to me scenario.
There are 290,000 babies born each year to mothers who believed their coming into existence was a statistical improbability.
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Moms Little Valentine T
Heres a super soft cotton t-shirt thats machine washable and professionally printed in the United States. The design on this maternity-style t-shirt is also super adorable.
A high-grade ink has been used on the design to ensure long-lasting durability and vibrancy. Satisfaction is guaranteed and exchanges are easy if you need a different size.
Why Do Teenagers Really Get Pregnant
Not all teenage pregnancies are unwanted nor are all young mums having babies to receive benefits, as a new survey conducted by former teenage mother and Telegraph writer, Prymface shows.
In September this year Conservative MP Amber Rudd officially launched a cross-party inquiry looking into the issue of unwanted pregnancy in the UK. The inquiry was set up in the backdrop of two apparently striking trends:
1. Abortion rates in some age groups have risen in the past few years, namely in the 30-34 age group.
2. Although teenage pregnancy in Britain has declined over the past decade, it remains the highest in Western Europe.
The inquiry has so far received little media attention, yet it is a real opportunity to ensure that new voices are heard. It seems to have replaced the proposed abortion counseling consultation, which has angered pro-life campaigners, but there is still a danger that those with strong opinions about how others should live their lives are given priority.
An assumption has been made that unwanted and teenage are inter-changeable when it comes to being pregnant, which brings into question whose values are being promoted and whether the term unwanted is more about being undesirable to the Government or society rather than the women themselves.
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