What to do during pregnancy. Early pregnancy: what is important to know? What's better not to drink?

Extreme sports, overseas delicacies, plane travel - all this has become the norm of life. modern man. Maybe pregnant women should cast aside restrictions and stop worrying about the development of the embryo? Unfortunately, women in this position face dangers that can lead to irreversible consequences. The unborn baby is especially susceptible to harmful effects during the period when there are still no noticeable signs of his existence. Therefore, it is important for expectant mothers to know what not to do during early pregnancy.

From the moment when a woman is born new life, it becomes more sensitive to environmental factors. Over the next nine months, her body will work for two, so during pregnancy the expectant mother needs especially careful treatment. But her baby is even more vulnerable to adverse factors. During pregnancy, a whole organism is formed from two small cells, so it is very important that the development processes proceed without errors. And a pregnant woman should do her best to contribute to this, protecting the embryo as much as possible from potentially harmful influences.

What you should absolutely not do during pregnancy

Teratogenic factors are environmental agents that cause disruption of embryo development. Depending on the duration of pregnancy and the method of exposure, they either stop it or lead to developmental defects. Every woman of reproductive age should have an idea of what absolutely should not be done during pregnancy. Drug use, alcohol, smoking - these are bad habits that can cost the life and health of your unborn baby. Also, absolute contraindications during pregnancy, regardless of its duration:

exposure to ionizing radiation- radiation therapy, radioactive iodine preparations);
working with toxic products- their waste, paint and varnish production;
contact with infectious patients- rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus pose the greatest danger;
taking medications - including those of herbal origin.

The influence of hazardous factors depending on the trimester

Caution should be exercised throughout pregnancy, however, sensitivity to the effects of adverse environmental agents varies depending on the gestational age. For example, an awkward fall will cause much more trouble at the end of pregnancy, but fluorography is more dangerous at the beginning.

In the first week after conception, the “All or Nothing” law comes into play: under the influence of teratogenic factors in the first days, the embryo either dies or continues to develop without deviations. If pregnancy is desired, and the goal is to carry and give birth to a healthy child, then you need to protect yourself from possible risks.

First 12 weeks

In the first trimester, pregnant women should not do anything that could lead to miscarriage. Anything you shouldn't do after conception usually carries over into subsequent pregnancies, it just becomes more obvious as time goes on. If you exclude the absolute contraindications listed above, then you should be wary of the following risk factors.

Extreme Sports

What is the danger? An adrenaline rush after a parachute jump or visiting a roller coaster, or a lack of oxygen when conquering an Alpine peak can cause malnutrition of the embryo and contribute to its rejection.

Ways to Reduce Risk

Completely give up extreme sports.
Reduce the load for those who have been involved in active sports.
Go to the gym for special pregnancy classes.

Weight lifting

What is the danger? With the onset of pregnancy, hormonal changes affect the ligamentous apparatus and make it more vulnerable to overload. It has been proven that the risk of miscarriage increases with regular lifting of objects weighing more than 10 kg.

Ways to Reduce Risk

In the first trimester, do not wear heavy things heavier than 10 kg.
Switch to light work if the work involves lifting weights.
If there is a threat of interruption, completely limit lifting weights.

Hot bath

What is the danger? If you take a hot bath with a water temperature of 40°C, then a pregnant woman is exposed to significant danger: for some, blood pressure rises, the outflow of blood from the brain can cause fainting. Another threat is uterine bleeding. For the same reason, it is prohibited to hover your legs at any stage of pregnancy.

Ways to Reduce Risk

By the end of the first trimester, you can take warm baths up to 35°C.
Keep your stomach and heart area above the surface of the water.
Don't take a bath when no one is home.
Do not visit the sauna or bathhouse.

X-ray examination

What is the danger? In the first trimester of pregnancy, embryonic cells actively divide and all the organs of the future baby are formed. X-rays can disrupt this process.

Ways to Reduce Risk

When planning pregnancy, undergo testing in the first half of the menstrual cycle.
If there is a possibility of delay, take pictures on later.
In an emergency, take the photo under the protection of a lead shield.
Take the examination using digital equipment.

Dental treatment

What is the danger? All teeth should be treated at the planning stage. Cavities are a source of infection. Medicines used in dentistry are contraindicated for pregnant women.

Ways to Reduce Risk

Treat teeth before pregnancy.
If time is lost, then go to the dentist in the second trimester.
In an emergency, the doctor uses drugs without adrenaline.
Do not take pictures in the first trimester.
When extracting a tooth, use approved antibiotics.
Do not install implants.

Pregnancy is not a contraindication to the installation of braces for straightening teeth, but individual pain sensitivity must be taken into account in order to exclude the use of painkillers.

Cosmetic procedures

What is the danger? It all depends on the type of intervention chosen and the qualifications of the cosmetologist. During pregnancy, you should refrain from injection cosmetology. This is due to the fact that the drugs used have not been subjected to clinical trials during pregnancy; allergic reactions are possible. Procedures that can affect general blood flow, and these are many types of hardware cosmetology, are absolutely prohibited.

Ways to Reduce Risk

Nourish and moisturize the skin cosmetics for pregnant.
Limit cosmetic procedures to peeling and facial cleansing.
Epilation should be carried out only if pain is tolerated.
Prefer depilation and shaving.
Do not visit the solarium.

Facial cleansing and peeling are not prohibited, but you need to remember that after conception there is a natural weakening of the immune system, so there is a high risk of infection. You should also select depilatory creams with caution - if you are prone to allergies, you should avoid them.

Mid term

The middle of pregnancy is rightly called the golden period - early toxicosis and all the inconveniences associated with it have already passed, and the stomach is not yet so large as to serve as a source of discomfort. The second trimester is best time for travel, attending maternity schools, physical activity and outdoor recreation. But pregnant women should not do certain things in the second trimester.

Choosing a wardrobe. Let's say no to tight jeans and high heels. For proper development baby, the blood supply to the pelvic organs should be satisfactory. Tight clothing not only puts pressure on the stomach and serves as an obstacle to normal blood flow. Therefore, from the beginning of the second trimester, it makes sense to give preference loose dresses and cute “pregnant” onesies. There are brave mothers who don’t take off their heels even in the delivery room. But to reduce the load on your back and prevent the appearance of uterine tone, you should choose shoes with flat soles.
Proper nutrition. “We are what we eat,” and in relation to the developing fetus, this expression seems even more true. It is advisable for the expectant mother to review her diet for the content of vitamins and minerals, consume fermented milk products, eat more seasonal vegetables and fruits, and give preference to lean meats. If there is a tendency to arterial hypertension and edema, then it is worth reducing the consumption of table salt. Is there anything you shouldn't eat? There are no special dietary restrictions for pregnant women, but it is important to choose quality products.

If there is no tendency to allergies, then all fruits are allowed, including citrus fruits. Mothers who are gaining weight according to schedule can have both chocolate and baked goods. The main thing is to keep it in moderation.

Final stage

What pregnant women should not do in the third trimester is dictated by the body itself. Body weight is growing every week, big belly changes gait and compresses organs abdominal cavity. The expectant mother may experience heartburn, shortness of breath, swelling and dizziness. All this affects the daily activities of the pregnant woman. The main restrictions during this period are related to physical activity. What movements should you not do during the third trimester of pregnancy?

Sitting cross-legged. Doctors do not recommend crossing your legs, as this leads to worsening blood flow and reduces the amount of blood flowing to the fetus.
Raise your hands up. Active movements of the hands can cause a shift in the center of gravity and lead to a fall of the pregnant woman. Also, the uterus can reflexively become toned, which is fraught with premature birth.
Play outdoor games. Excessive physical activity is difficult to tolerate: the pregnant woman does not have enough air, her stomach prevents her from moving. Careless movement may result in a fall and injury.

Driving a car is not contraindicated for pregnant women. If a woman is an experienced car enthusiast, then the comfort in a personal car is much better than public transport with infections and the risk of getting hit by inattentive passengers. Some ladies even take the driving test, being in an interesting position. However, this applies to pregnancies without complications. If the expectant mother is worried about arterial hypertension, has problems with the cervix, or is simply nervous while driving a car, then it is better to hand over control to a loved one or take a taxi.

In the later stages of pregnancy, you should limit yourself to travel. It doesn’t matter what vehicle is used, any of them is an extra risk:

the train means shaking and lack of amenities, lack of medical care;
moving by car- stiff legs and uncomfortable posture can limit the flow of oxygen to the fetus;
air travel- pressure changes and the risk of thrombosis.

If a trip cannot be avoided, then you should consult with a specialist and choose a suitable means of transportation. But it is worth remembering that some airlines do not accept late-term pregnant women on board.

Woman in position and work

In Russia maternity leave starts at 30 weeks for a singleton pregnancy, but there are some types of work that cannot be done by pregnant women at any stage:

interaction with radiation- found in production, among radiologists;
working with toxic substances- agronomists, chemists, repair and production sectors suffer;
night shifts - doctors, dispatchers, service workers;
frequent flights - flight attendants, train conductors;
lifting weights- storekeepers, plasterers and painters.

A pregnant woman should not be forced to work overtime or be sent on business trips. If the current rate does not provide for easier working conditions, then the expectant mother can be transferred to another position while maintaining her salary.

Many pregnant women are interested in the question of whether intimacy is allowed in later stages of gestation. Doctors answer unequivocally: if pregnancy proceeds without complications, and the sexual partner does not suffer from infectious diseases, then regular sex life during this period it is even useful. Orgasm helps improve blood circulation in the pelvic organs, and seminal fluid contains prostaglandins, which prepare the cervix for childbirth.

What people say

Since ancient times there have been folk signs and superstitions associated with pregnancy. Some of them are justified, others are just a tribute to tradition.

Hair manipulation

Since ancient times, there has been a belief that pregnant women should not cut their hair. Recently, a veto on hair dyeing has been added to this. Many pregnant women can be accurately identified in antenatal clinics by their overgrown, unkempt hairstyles.

This is what is hidden under this ban: in ancient times, a woman radically cut her hair only once, crossing the threshold of her husband’s house. Losing hair was considered a shame. Therefore, there was no talk about cutting hair during pregnancy. This restriction has no basis. Modern pregnant women can safely enjoy hairstyles of the length and shape they want.

The same is true with hair dyeing. However, you should dye your hair in a hairdresser with spacious, ventilated rooms. Pregnant women with a tendency to allergic reactions should avoid the idea of changing the color.

Ban on any work on holidays

If the schedule allows you to comply church calendar, then there is no reason to worry. No pregnant woman has ever been harmed by an extra day of rest. church holidays. If this is not possible, then believing expectant mothers can visit church and consult with a priest. Perhaps there is some kind of compromise option. The main thing to remember is that it is much worse for the baby if his mother is nervous because of the omen.

One of the signs that is based on a rational grain. Cats are carriers of an infectious disease - toxoplasmosis, which is extremely dangerous for the fetus, regardless of the stage of pregnancy.

But do not rush to kick the unfortunate animal out of the house. It is necessary to donate blood for the presence of antibodies to toxoplasma. If a pregnant woman’s body contains immunoglobulins G for infection, this is a sign that she has encountered Toxoplasma before. This means that the embryo is not at risk for this infection. It is worth examining the cat as well. There is a good chance that the animal is healthy and poses no danger. As a preventive measure, you can entrust someone close to you to clean the litter box after your cats.

Among all the prohibitions and restrictions that surround a pregnant woman, the most important thing that you should not do during pregnancy is to lose your presence of mind and optimism. Despite the worries, you need to believe that pregnancy is a wonderful period that will certainly end with meeting your baby.

The first pregnancy is an important and exciting stage in the life of every woman. Expectant mothers try to absorb as much information as possible about this unusual condition. And this is not surprising, because the lack of experience often leads to the fact that the expectant mother has absolutely no idea during her first pregnancy what to know and do, how to behave correctly. In this article we will look at the main points and provide the most important recommendations for expectant mothers.

First signs of pregnancy

The main signs of pregnancy are a delay in menstruation and two lines on a special test. But there are other symptoms that early stages you can determine the probability of a woman’s pregnancy, since the belly naturally does not grow in the first weeks of pregnancy.

Emotional instability. Perhaps in the first week of pregnancy this is the most common sign and sensation, especially in an emotional woman. It becomes difficult for her to control her emotions. Flashes of joy give way to tears. Increased irritability is also often observed, as well as lability of emotions: the same event either makes her angry, then upsets, or makes her laugh. This condition is caused by hormonal changes in the body of a pregnant woman.
Changing taste preferences. Food may seem under-salted and bland. There is a desire to eat food that was not usually included in a woman’s diet.
Nausea. This is how early toxicosis manifests itself. Not all women experience this symptom. There may be pronounced nausea, which is accompanied by vomiting, or, on the contrary, mild nausea and dizziness.
Swelling of the mammary glands. In the early stages it does not appear very often, and is also accompanied by the appearance of veins on the chest. A woman may feel slight pain in the mammary glands and tingling.

Specific symptoms of pregnancy include the following:

complete aversion to previously favorite food;
distortion of the perception of smells and tastes: a pregnant woman may smell gasoline from fruits or a metallic taste from ordinary food;
increased sleepiness: a woman can sleep for 12 hours and still feel tired. I constantly want to lie down, there is no desire to be active.

By and large, the first visit of a pregnant woman to a gynecologist is not much different from a standard examination. To confirm pregnancy, the doctor will examine the vagina using a speculum and palpation. During the process, he will take a smear on the flora and draw the necessary conclusions about the general condition of the uterus, its cervix, appendages and the vagina as a whole. In the future, such inspections will no longer be carried out. The gynecologist will limit himself to palpating the abdomen on the couch.

Also, in the early stages of pregnancy, ultrasound will help to identify it more accurately, with the help of which you can also determine the exact date.

On the couch, the gynecologist will additionally take measurements of the pelvis and waist. Then you will need to weigh yourself and determine the woman’s height. Blood pressure is also measured in both arms.

All data will be entered into an exchange card, which will be given to the pregnant woman after the first examination. Notes will be added there about the state of health, the presence of various types of chronic diseases, injuries, illnesses, operations that took place in the life of the woman and her immediate family.

You need to be prepared for the doctor to ask questions about the first period, about the beginning of sexual activity, and he also needs to know about the bad habits and lifestyle of a pregnant woman. All this is not the doctor’s idle curiosity, but important and necessary data that will help determine the general state of health and predict the course and development of pregnancy.

Important! There is no need to be shy and hide from the gynecologist facts about your health that you might not want to advertise. The specialist will definitely keep your secret, but will have information about the possible causes of pregnancy complications. Prepare for your visit to the doctor, be prepared to talk clearly and specifically about yourself.

After all of the above, the nurse or the doctor himself writes out the woman’s directions for the necessary examinations and tests that will need to be taken in the near future.
Usually, at the first visit, the doctor recommends the use of vitamins or other medications that help adjust hemoglobin levels and increase the amount of microelements necessary for pregnancy.

What to do during pregnancy

If a woman is used to leading healthy image life, then she won’t have to introduce any special changes into her everyday life. But at the same time, there are some features that the expectant mother still needs to know about.

Did you know? In Japan, women go on maternity leave not at the end of pregnancy, but at the beginning.

A categorical “no” to bad habits

The expectant mother must firmly understand that drinking alcohol and smoking during pregnancy is unacceptable. Nicotine negatively affects the nervous system (central and peripheral). It is women who continue to smoke during pregnancy who most often experience premature birth, intrauterine fetal death, and miscarriages.

Regarding use alcoholic drinks, then as a result a child may be born with various deviations in physical and mental development.
These are not ordinary horror stories, but a reality that depends only on the woman. It is important to understand that now you are responsible not only for yourself and your health, but also for your child, who cannot yet choose whether to poison his body with poison or not: you do this for him. Giving up bad habits is not that difficult if you understand who you are doing it for.

Normal fetal development and a favorable course of the entire pregnancy directly depend on a balanced diet. expectant mother. Typically, in 9 months a woman gains about 9-13 kg in weight. In the second half of pregnancy, normal weight gain does not exceed 300-400 g per week. It is impossible to write down a diet for every day, but we will give some basic nutrition rules below.

Eat food more often, but in small portions. Ideally, you eat 5-6 times a day, but little by little. Protein foods for a pregnant woman are dairy products and lean meat. As for carbohydrates, which will reimburse the pregnant woman’s body, you should eat oatmeal, buckwheat, and rice.

You should eat a variety of vegetables and fruits every day, which will fill your body with the necessary vitamins. Approximately 35-40% of fats in the diet should come from vegetable oils, not animal oils. It is better to minimize lard and fatty meat or not eat it at all. In the second half of pregnancy, it is advisable to exclude spices, smoked foods, too sweet and salty foods from the diet.

Did you know? The approximate daily calorie content, which can be taken as a basis and adjusted depending on the lifestyle of the pregnant woman, should be 2400-2700 kcal in the first months of pregnancy and 2800-3000 kcal starting from the fifth month.

Vitamins are especially important during pregnancy. If in summer and autumn they can be taken from fruits and vegetables, then in the autumn-winter period it is necessary to compensate for the lack of vitamins by taking multivitamin complexes and preparations. It is recommended to consult a doctor before choosing one or another complex for yourself. A pregnant woman needs iron, which helps form the fetus’s circulatory system, and calcium, which nourishes the skeletal system.

Drinking large amounts of liquid is not recommended, as water will be retained in the body, resulting in swelling. You need to drink purified or mineral water, light tea, milk, juices (not store-bought, but prepared yourself). It is advisable to exclude carbonated drinks.

Important! About a month before giving birth, you should stop using sesame oil: during this period it does not have the best effect on the body of a pregnant woman.

A woman should always monitor the cleanliness of her body, but during pregnancy she needs to be especially meticulous about this. A daily bath or shower will help refresh and relax your body.

Important! Starting from the eighth month of pregnancy, you cannot take a bath: replace it with a shower.

You should not visit baths and saunas, as this may cause premature birth. You need to wash your genitals carefully, but regularly and thoroughly. Douching is allowed only after the recommendations of a doctor.

Also during pregnancy you need to pay attention to your teeth. The body loses mineral salts, resulting in tooth enamel damage. It is necessary to cure all diseased teeth: it is safe during pregnancy and even necessary.

Comfortable clothes

Changes in body shape should entail changes in a woman’s wardrobe. You need to choose clothes that will not restrict your movements. It should be comfortable, free and not put pressure on the stomach. Remember that waistbands or elastic bands of regular stockings that are too tight can put pressure on the veins, which will impede circulation and can lead to dilated veins in the legs.
As for shoes, you need to choose a stable wide heel. During pregnancy, the center of gravity shifts forward as the belly begins to grow. In this regard, maintaining balance in high and thin heels can be not only unusual, but also quite difficult.

Physical exercise

Physical activity should be regular, but not heavy. Performing special exercises several times a week for 15-20 minutes is ideal for a pregnant woman. With their help, you can improve sleep, appetite, develop proper breathing, as well as strengthen the abdominal press and perineal muscles, which can facilitate the process of childbirth.

Important! In women who perform lungs physical exercise During pregnancy, nausea and vomiting are less common.

An instructor at the antenatal clinic can teach a woman a special set of necessary exercises.

Complete rest

Adequate rest and healthy sleep are the key to a stable and proper pregnancy. You need to sleep at least 8 hours a day. It is advisable to take short, slow walks before bed and breathe fresh air. The room also needs to be ventilated regularly. Clean air has a beneficial effect on both the mental and physical state pregnant woman. It also has a beneficial effect on the fetus, which is especially sensitive to lack of oxygen.

You can take sunbathing, but only as prescribed by a doctor and for no longer than 15 minutes. Women whose pregnancy is progressing in a healthy manner are allowed to swim in the river or sea.

Important! Travel to the sea is not recommended for women during pregnancy if they usually live in a different climate zone.

Reading additional literature

Pregnancy - perfect time in order to prepare for the birth of a baby not only physically, but also in terms of acquiring the required amount of information. A woman who worked all the time or spent time on other things finally has time to read relevant literature and find out all the information that will be useful to her in the future.
Many women register and communicate with other expectant or current mothers on specialized thematic forums. There you can consult and get recommendations from more experienced women.

In addition to thematic magazines, books that tell in detail about all stages of pregnancy, preparation for childbirth, and the first days and months with a child are recommended for reading. Also, with the help of such books, you will know how to properly care for your baby, how to communicate with him and raise him.

The correct emotional and psychological background, as well as being armed with information, will help you not to be afraid of childbirth, but also to enjoy every day and look forward to meeting your child.

Did you know? Scientists have proven that inside the mother the baby can not only laugh and cry, but also dance. So listen to good music more often.

Sexual relations

Attitudes towards sex during pregnancy can change for both a woman and her man. Physically, sexual relations can be as often as you and your spouse want, if there are no contraindications. An exception is also the case when there have been previous miscarriages. Here you should abstain from sexual relations in the first months of pregnancy. It is also advisable to stop sexual intercourse for several weeks before giving birth.

Examinations and tests during pregnancy

During pregnancy, expectant mothers differ in their opinions regarding the examinations prescribed for them. Some women complain that they have to take a lot of tests, while others, on the contrary, believe that their doctors do not check everything that could be harmful to the baby.

However, there is a minimum set of examinations and tests that every pregnant woman must undergo.

1st trimester.
Healthy pregnant women are prescribed:

General and biochemical blood test. The blood is also examined for clotting.
Urinalysis (general).
Research is being conducted for the presence of HIV and syphilis, hepatitis C and B, and various types of infections that can cause fetal malformations (herpes, rubella, etc.).
The blood group and Rh factor are determined.
An ECG (electrocardiography) is performed.
Be sure to visit a therapist, ophthalmologist, ENT specialist and dentist.
At 10-12 weeks of pregnancy, it is necessary to identify the risk of genetic abnormalities, as well as defects in fetal development. For this purpose it is necessary to carry out biochemical screening. The blood is tested for pregnancy-associated plasma protein A and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
During the same period, the first screening expert ultrasound during pregnancy is recommended.
A smear is taken from the pregnant woman to check the vaginal flora, as well as tests for chlamydia.

If the expectant mother was sick with any chronic diseases, the scope of the above examinations may increase depending on the pathology.

2nd trimester.
During this period, the frequency of visits to the doctor should be approximately once a month.

Before each visit you will need to take a general urine test.
As for the blood test, when normal course During pregnancy it is taken much less frequently: once every three weeks is usually sufficient. Naturally, if you have diseases or any complications, you will have to donate additional blood.
At 18-21 weeks of pregnancy you will need to undergo a routine ultrasound.
At 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, a woman undergoes a glucose test. The level is examined in three stages: on an empty stomach, an hour after taking 75 grams of glucose and two hours later. This test helps identify hidden diabetes in a pregnant woman.
Testing urine to detect hidden infections.

3rd trimester.

At 30 weeks of pregnancy, a biochemical and general blood test is performed. The blood is also checked for sugar levels and clotting. Blood is also donated for testing for HIV, hepatitis C and B.
At 34-36 weeks, a smear is taken from the pregnant woman to determine the presence of pathologies in the vaginal microflora immediately before childbirth, and, if necessary, treat them.
The third mandatory ultrasound is performed.
CTG (cardiotocography) is used - this is a registration of the activity of the fetal heart: it is necessary to determine the intrauterine state of the child.

Did you know?During pregnancy, a woman's foot size can increase by one or even two sizes.

About three weeks before the expected birth, you should begin preparing all the things and documents that will be needed in the hospital.
The first thing you need to take from documents is your passport. You also need to remember your card, which contains all the results of examinations and tests. If you have entered into an agreement with a doctor in advance or have a referral to a maternity hospital, take these documents too.

Things a woman will need in the maternity hospital:

nightgown;
warm socks and slippers;
terry towel;
toothbrush and paste, shampoo and soap, comb and cosmetics bag with the necessary products;
toilet paper and wet wipes;
mineral water;
money.

Things you will need after childbirth:

a robe and a long shirt that buttons in the front;
gauze wipes (sterile);
nipple cream;
gaskets;
nursing bra;
enema or laxative suppositories;
plastic bags that can be used for dirty laundry.

Things for the child:

blouses, rompers, bodysuits, hats, socks and diapers;
diapers;
powder or baby cream;
wet wipes;
baby oil.

This short list basic things that you will probably need in the maternity hospital. Everything else can be purchased as needed. Preparing in advance will reassure the woman and give her confidence.

Remember that doctors who will always be nearby will be able to come to your aid at any time. They will advise and prompt when this is necessary. Therefore, first of all, you need to prepare for childbirth psychologically and emotionally.

For many girls, everything related to pregnancy and childbirth causes a state of panic. And when the time comes to think about offspring, fear prevents you from focusing on the main thing - the birth of a child, and forces you to devote all your thoughts to possible negative aspects both processes. There is another extreme - the belief that nature will do everything itself, which means there is nothing to worry about at all. Both points of view are wrong. Pregnancy and childbirth are natural processes. But a woman must prepare for them mentally and physically, have enough knowledge of how this happens, and do everything in her power for the successful pregnancy and birth of a healthy baby.

Read in this article

The need for this is caused not only by the financial capabilities of the family. Here is the most important health both parents, their preparedness for the birth of a child, the creation of favorable conditions for this. The process should begin 2-3 months before the expected fertilization. It includes:

Quitting smoking and alcohol;
Normalization of nutrition with the obligatory consumption of large amounts of vitamins, microelements, fiber;
Healthy physical activity with frequent exposure to fresh air. This part of the preparation is especially useful for a woman, because she is the one who will bear the child and give birth, which require endurance and energy expenditure;
Avoiding stress.

Actually, there is nothing complicated in these requirements; it would be good for everyone to lead a similar lifestyle all the time.

Which doctors should you visit?

Expectant parents should definitely be examined by doctors. A woman needs to visit doctors of the following specialties:

Gynecologist. It is good that this is a specialist who will then monitor the entire pregnancy. He should know about past illnesses, childbirth, abortions. The gynecologist will need the results of tests for flora, cytology, viral infections(HIV, hepatitis, syphilis), PCR studies for sexually transmitted infections, cytomegalovirus, as well as information about the body’s susceptibility to rubella;
Dentist. Before pregnancy, you need to get rid of infections in the oral cavity, caries;
Cardiologist;
Otorhinolaryngologist;
Allergist;
Endocrinologist.

In addition to the tests mentioned, it is necessary to do more research:

Ultrasound of the reproductive organs and mammary glands;
Blood and urine tests (general and biochemical);
Hormone levels;
Ultrasound of the thyroid gland.

If this is not the first attempt for a woman to become pregnant, the specialist may consider it necessary to prescribe:

Colposcopy of the cervix;
Hysteroscopy;
Endometrial biopsy.

Taking oral contraceptives, as well as contraception using an IUD, should be interrupted 2-3 months before conception. If there are genetic diseases in the family or one of the future parents has had radiation exposure, it is worth visiting an appropriate specialist.

In order for conception to occur exactly when the future parents want it, it is necessary to calculate the most favorable days for it. Ovulation occurs around 11-16, if you count from the first day of menstruation.

The most important things during pregnancy

There are many nuances in this period that you should know so that everything goes harmoniously and safely for the woman and the unborn baby. Correct behavior will help avoid many potential problems.

Tests

A woman can understand that she is pregnant based on her own well-being. But this will be a little later, and until the first signs appear, a pregnancy test will come to the rescue. Whatever it is, its functioning is based on the determination of human chorionic gonadotropin in the urine, which appears immediately after implantation of the embryo inside the uterus, that is, 7-10 days after conception. And if you do the test on the first day of the expected but not yet arrived menstruation, it will be informative. These devices come in several types:

Test strips. They are impregnated with a reagent, which, when immersed in morning urine, gives a result with an accuracy of 95% in 5-10 seconds. If another one appears next to the existing control line, the woman is pregnant;
Tablet. Able to indicate pregnancy if delayed by less than a week. A drop of morning urine is placed in the window provided for this purpose. After some time, the result is visible in the nearby rectangle;
Jet. Detects pregnancy with high accuracy at the earliest possible stage. The receiving tip of the device is placed under a stream of urine, and the result will be visible in a few minutes in the window provided for this purpose.

It happens that tests provide information that does not correspond to reality. The reason for this is violation of instructions or taking medications containing hCG.

How to determine the deadline

To track pregnancy, both the doctor and the expectant mother need to know its duration. This is the basis for prescribing research, monitoring the development of the fetus, and the possibility of identifying pathology. Thanks to knowing the due date, it is easy to determine the date of the upcoming birth. There are several counting methods:

According to the day of ovulation. It occurs approximately in the middle of the cycle. If it is 28 days, then conception occurred 14 days after the start date of the last menstruation. You can also determine the day of ovulation by regularly measuring your basal temperature;
Using ultrasound. The size is clearly visible on the screen ovum, according to which the doctor will calculate the period. This method is most informative up to 24 weeks;
Examination of the uterus. The gynecologist will determine the period based on its size, starting from the 5th week, when the organ begins to enlarge;
At the first movement of the fetus. As a rule, this happens at 18-20 weeks, sometimes at 16. It’s a little late, but some inattentive women find out about pregnancy this way.

How to live with pregnancy

Lifestyle should be aimed at ensuring the normal development of the unborn child and the well-being of the woman. This does not mean that all pleasures become inaccessible, but the life of the expectant mother becomes more orderly:

It is necessary to monitor nutrition so that the fetus receives enough vitamins and microelements. You should forget about coffee, green tea, seafood, legumes for now, and reduce carbohydrates, which cause weight gain. But meat, fish, dairy products, vegetables, and fruits are not prohibited in the diet;
You must take vitamins as prescribed by your doctor. Folic acid is especially important. But vitamin A needs moderate doses, otherwise the child faces pathologies;
Rest and comfort are the main components of the daily routine. This also applies to clothes and linen. Sleep should be at least 8 hours, mental, physical and emotional stress should be reduced. 1.5-hour walks in the fresh air and exercises to strengthen the spine, abdominal muscles, and perineum are important;
The use of transport should be limited due to possible shaking, which creates unwanted vibration;
Weight lifting and striking domestic work, especially with the use chemicals, are prohibited;
Alcohol and smoking are the enemies of pregnancy. Even infrequent use can cause deformities in a child;
Medicines and plants are taken only as prescribed by a doctor;
You should still take good care of yourself, but without using toxic cosmetics, acrylic and ammonia materials, solariums, or hardware methods. It is better to choose care and hygiene products that are specifically designed for pregnant women;
The breast is prepared for future feeding by washing with warm and cool water, air baths for 10 minutes 3 times a day;
During a normal pregnancy, vaginal sex is not prohibited. As the period increases, you just need to protect the growing belly from pressure on it.

Feeling unwell is not uncommon during different periods of pregnancy. Typical problems in women:

Toxicosis. It manifests itself from the beginning of pregnancy with nausea, vomiting, aversion to food and certain odors. By the 12th week, toxicosis passes, but even before this time you can alleviate its symptoms if you eat a piece of salty biscuit with sweetened weak tea in the morning, drink 1.5 liters of liquid per day, reduce portions and increase the number of meals to 6;
in the legs. The enlarging uterus compresses the vessels, so the blood supply to the muscles is disrupted. The body may lack calcium and potassium. Products containing these microelements, mini-exercises with squeezing and unclenching your toes will help;
Dizziness. They can occur for various reasons: stuffiness, cramped conditions, fatigue. You can cope with the problem by avoiding the conditions that create it;
Insomnia. It is caused by anxiety and changes in the body, which provoke the need to go to the toilet frequently, and the inability to choose a comfortable position due to the stomach. Sleeping at the same hours, drinking warm milk shortly before, and resting during the day will help;
. You can eliminate the problem if you drink a glass of water after waking up, and add it to it before meals. lemon juice, walk a lot, introduce prunes and dried apricots into your diet.

Childbirth: readiness No. 1

In the entire chain of childbirth, this is what women fear most. Childbirth is a serious challenge, but the vast majority of mothers successfully overcome it. In addition, specialists are always nearby, ready to help.

What to take to the maternity hospital

The necessary things and documents should be prepared in advance. Before giving birth, you need to take with you only those that are needed directly for the woman and the newborn. Everything else is collected and left for later; these things will be brought by a happy father later.
Documentation:

Passport;
Exchange card;
Results of the latest tests for today;
Medical policy;
Birth certificate;
Agreement with the clinic (if concluded).

Things for childbirth and stay in the ward:

Spacious nightgown;
Socks, thin and thicker, but not wool;
Hygiene supplies (soap, comb, toothbrush and toothpaste, napkins, toilet paper);
A pair of small terry towels;
Robe;
Washable slippers with non-slip soles.

Items that will be needed after childbirth and upon discharge:

Sanitary pads and disposable underwear for mother;
2 with front clasp;
Cream for cracked nipples;
Laxative suppositories;
Diapers for newborns 1 set. Another one is bought according to the size of the baby;
Baby soap, cream, soft towel;
Sterile cotton wool;
Thin and thick undershirts, caps, diapers, mittens;
Blanket or “envelope”, hat, overalls, socks for discharge. All things according to the weather;
Clothes and cosmetics for mom. The one in which the woman came to the maternity hospital will most likely turn out to be large.

How does childbirth go?

Healthy women give birth to a child naturally, that is, through the birth canal. The process, which is assisted by a midwife or doctor, is divided into 3 phases:

The first is counted from the beginning of regular contractions until the cervix is fully dilated by 4 cm. This is the longest part - 8-10 hours. Sometimes the process is stimulated with medications;
The second lasts 3-4 hours. The contractions intensify and become more frequent, the amniotic sac opens and the water breaks. The cervix dilates to 6-8 cm, and the fetus moves to the level of the pelvic floor;
The third is characterized by the opening of the uterine pharynx by 10-12 cm and lasts from 20 minutes to 2 hours. It moves into the main part of labor, although the activity of the process seems to weaken. But this is not so, it is after the cervix is fully dilated that the fetal head passes through the pelvic ring, and after 8-10 attempts by the mother the baby comes out. Sometimes, to make this part of the journey easier, the woman's perineum is cut.

During the first two phases, the woman is allowed to sit down and walk to stimulate labor. In some clinics, the process takes place with pain relief. The condition of the woman in labor is monitored by measuring blood pressure, temperature, and doing vaginal examinations.

After the baby is born and the pulsation in the umbilical cord stops, it is cut. The placenta leaves the uterus in 2-3 contractions, and the woman is given medications to prevent bleeding.

C-section

It should be prescribed according to indications, but sometimes it is done at the request of the woman. The planned operation is carried out as follows:

On the operating table, the woman is given an epidural or general anesthesia. An IV and a device for measuring pressure are placed, as well as a catheter for draining urine;
The woman’s belly is wiped with an antiseptic, the doctor dissects the abdominal wall and anterior uterus, removes the child, and cuts the umbilical cord. This takes 10-15 minutes;
The surgeon separates the placenta, examines the uterine cavity, and sutures the organ. Then sutures are placed on the abdominal wall, a bandage and ice are placed on top;
The woman is placed in intensive care for a day, where saline and antibiotics are administered.

After transfer to the ward, the stitches are processed every day, and the painkillers are stopped after 3-4 days.

A woman’s body recovers faster;

No need to waste time searching for the right one baby food, money to buy it, fiddling with preparing and sterilizing bottles.

Usually the baby is put to the breast on the third day after birth, and before that the woman has to pump. It hurts, but it is necessary so that you can then feed for at least 6 months, and preferably up to a year. In this regard, new mothers are concerned about two problems:

Lack of milk;
Cracked nipples.

The first can be solved by putting the baby to the breast frequently and taking lactation-stimulating drugs: an infusion of anise seeds, grated carrots with sour cream. A woman will have to drink a lot of fluids and eat right to prevent the baby from developing gas.

Cracked nipples need to be treated with special creams and air baths. It is also necessary to learn how to properly breastfeed your baby so that he grasps the nipple along with the areola.

Body after childbirth

In this part, women suffer the most from their stomach. It is no longer as flat as before; during pregnancy, the muscles stretched and sagged slightly. But you don't have to put up with it. There are some measures you can take:

Change your diet. If you include oatmeal, rice, vegetables, fruits in your diet, and drink a lot of water, this will speed up metabolic processes. Belly fat will slowly but steadily begin to disappear. Don't forget that a large number of fiber is harmful to the baby if he is breastfed. But fasting is unacceptable, because the milk will disappear. Therefore, in your zeal for harmony you need to know when to stop;
Restore muscle tone. Gentle exercises for the abdomen will help: abdominal breathing, tension during a walk, while doing household chores. You need to increase the load gradually; you can exercise intensively six months after giving birth, if it passed without complications.

Postpartum discharge

The uterus does not recover within a day after childbirth. This process lasts for some time, during which the woman develops lochia. At first they contain a lot of blood, then they gradually lighten and by the end of the 6-8th week after birth they become transparent or white.

Menstruation can come in 1.5-2 months if the woman does not breastfeed. Lactation extends the period without menstruation to six months. But on average and at breastfeeding they begin in the 4th month after birth, because by this time the baby is already introduced to complementary foods and less breastfeeding.

Sex after childbirth

You will have to abstain from it for another 4-6 weeks if the birth was normal. The woman’s genital area must be fully restored, then sex will be a joy and will not cause pain and infection.
After caesarean section or perineal ruptures will take 2 months to recover.

During the first sexual intercourse, a woman may feel pain and discomfort. This is due to vaginal dryness, which can be corrected with a lubricant, or better yet, with a long prelude to intercourse. The tone of the walls is almost always reduced. But this problem can also be solved by training the vagina with Kegel exercises.

While expecting a baby, the expectant mother faces many prohibitions regarding pregnancy. Pregnancy is divided into trimesters; the “dos” and “nots” for each of the three trimesters may vary slightly. In this article we will look at the most controversial taboos during pregnancy.

What not to do during pregnancy. Is it possible to have sex during pregnancy?

Doctors agree: at the beginning of the first trimester, while the embryo is just implanting into the wall of the uterus, it is better to postpone sexual activity. However, the statement that you cannot have sex during pregnancy is incorrect. In general, during pregnancy, a process that is not burdened by pathologies, intimate relationships are not contraindicated. Of course, you shouldn’t be too active; sexual intercourse should not bring pain or discomfort to the expectant mother.

What kind of sex should you not have during pregnancy with a threat, for example, with uterine hypertonicity? Alas, none. In addition to the mechanical effect of friction, it is worth remembering that when aroused, the uterus tenses, and during orgasm it contracts. Therefore, any form of sex and self-pleasure with an already tense uterus should be prohibited.

In the third trimester, you should also be more careful with sex. Some doctors believe that sex in the last trimester is beneficial by preparing a woman's birth canal for the birth of her baby. Others say that intimacy in the later stages can provoke labor.

Is it possible to dye hair or straighten hair using special compounds during pregnancy?

There was no logical confirmation of the superstition that the expectant mother should not cut her hair; this procedure does not harm the pregnancy and the baby at all. But the harm from hair coloring during pregnancy is quite real. Most dyes have an aggressive composition, the components of which, when the mixture is applied to the scalp, penetrate into the blood of a pregnant woman. Also, products for permanent hair coloring often have caustic properties. unpleasant odor, which is not beneficial for a pregnant woman to inhale. Most hair straightening products contain formaldehyde, the vapors of which are inhaled by the pregnant woman during the procedure.

A pregnant woman’s body can react unpredictably even to the usual dyeing products: the final result can be disastrous, and an allergic reaction is possible.

Because of this, it is not recommended to dye your hair during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. If a pregnant woman cannot refuse to dye her hair, then it is better to choose less aggressive dyes and use dyeing techniques in which the composition is not applied to the roots, such as ombre. Herbal henna and basma without chemical additives is an ideal option for pregnant women.

Before any painting, you must do an allergy test.

What not to do during pregnancy. How does self-medication harm pregnant women?

Taking medications without first consulting a doctor during pregnancy can be extremely dangerous. Conventional medications can have a detrimental effect on the development of pregnancy and provoke an allergic reaction.

There is an opinion that you should not use only medications during pregnancy without a doctor’s prescription. traditional medicine. It is wrong; alternative medicine can harm the fetus no less. For example, not everyone knows which herbs are prohibited during pregnancy. But the list of the latter is very impressive, containing dozens of items.

In the first trimester, if possible, you should not resort to medicines, in the following months the doctor must evaluate the ratio “risk for the child - benefit for the mother”.

Why can't you get vaccinated during pregnancy?

It is highly undesirable for pregnant women to get vaccinated. Moreover, after using some vaccines certain period time is not allowed to become pregnant. If a woman plans to protect developing baby from severe consequences diseases such as rubella, this should be done in advance.

Expectant mothers are vaccinated only in emergency situations, using vaccines with killed cultures of pathogens or ready-made antibodies.

Why you shouldn't drink alcohol during pregnancy

Previously, there was an opinion that it was possible, even necessary, for pregnant women to regularly drink a little high-quality red wine. Like, it increases hemoglobin. There is some truth in this statement. Indeed, recent studies prove that periodic consumption of high-quality alcohol in small quantities has a beneficial effect on health. But pregnant women should not drink alcohol, as it can have a negative effect on the developing fetus. The laying of the organs of the unborn child occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Many expectant mothers allowed themselves to drink alcohol before the onset of delayed menstruation, signaling pregnancy. Don't worry, during these few weeks the embryo is not yet fed with substances from maternal body, so drinking a glass of wine will not harm him in any way.

What not to do during pregnancy. Smoking during pregnancy: you should not quit smoking

Smoking during pregnancy is also shrouded in myths. There is a point of view that you should not quit smoking during pregnancy. They say that heavy smokers quit during pregnancy bad habit is more harmful than smoking itself. This is not true.

Yes, doctors do not recommend quitting too abruptly, as the body will experience stress. But you still need to part with cigarettes as soon as possible. Due to smoking, the fetus develops oxygen starvation, which leads to mental retardation, prematurity, reduced birth weight and other health problems.

Why You shouldn't sleep on your back during pregnancy

In the first trimester, the expectant mother is free to sleep in any comfortable position. As the uterus enlarges, sleeping on the stomach becomes impossible. Why do doctors say that you can’t sleep on your back during pregnancy? The reason for the prohibition is the increased size of the pregnant uterus, which, when the woman is lying on her back, can compress the inferior vena cava and impair blood flow, putting pressure on the ureters.

The result of resting in this position in late pregnancy can be exacerbation of hemorrhoids, back pain, low blood pressure with resulting headaches and dizziness.

For pregnant women with a noticeably rounded tummy, the optimal sleeping position will be on the left side.

Crossing your legs over your legs during pregnancy. P why not

It was forbidden for our ancestors to cross legs during pregnancy. They believed that sitting cross-legged by a pregnant woman could lead to crooked legs or even strabismus in the newborn baby. Of course, this has nothing to do with the truth. However, this position is really undesirable for everyone, especially for expectant mothers. The fact is that while sitting cross-legged, there is a load on the large uterus. The vein in the popliteal fossa is also compressed, which is not beneficial given the already increased risk of varicose veins in pregnant women. Blood circulation in the pelvic organs worsens. This is fraught oxygen starvation baby.

The load on the spine increases. With a growing belly, the musculoskeletal system of a pregnant woman already has a hard time; sitting in the wrong position further aggravates the situation. Pain in the pubic area is another indicator that you should not cross your legs during the weeks of pregnancy close to childbirth. Because of this position, the baby's head is often positioned incorrectly, which causes pain.

Why pregnant women should not raise their hands up

Doctors have found a reason why you should not raise your arms during pregnancy. No, this has nothing to do with the risk of the baby being entangled in the umbilical cord.

When you raise your arms up, the body feels discomfort, the uterus tenses. Therefore, in the second half of pregnancy you cannot raise your arms up. Early pregnancy this will not do much harm, but in the later stages it can cause premature labor.

Raising your arms suddenly can make a pregnant woman feel dizzy, and this is unsafe.
And if you stay in this position for a long time, blood circulation in the uterus worsens.

What not to do during pregnancy. How maternal nervous tension harms pregnancy

Wishing expectant mothers not to be nervous is not a banal “on-duty” phrase. You should not be nervous during pregnancy; stress can harm the baby.
Scientists have identified a connection between nervousness in pregnant women and the development of problems with the cardiovascular and nervous systems in children; male children are especially susceptible to this.

It has also been proven through an experiment that if a mother is regularly nervous during pregnancy, then the risk that her child will have sleep problems in the first year of life increases by 23 percent. Accordingly, all family members living with the child will have problems with sleep. And a mother’s chronic lack of sleep negatively affects lactation.

Conclusion

The expectant mother has double responsibility for her health and the safe development of her baby during pregnancy. It is extremely important to know what you can and cannot do while waiting for the birth of your child.

In the early stages of pregnancy, expectant mothers do not yet notice significant changes in their condition. Only morning sickness reminds you that there is a real miracle in your tummy. At this stage, women already begin to lovingly stroke the still unnoticeable belly, talk to the baby, come up with a name for him and guess what color baby vests their loved ones will have to order for the baby’s birthday.

Despite the apparent mildness of the condition, it is important now to treat your health as carefully as possible and understand that every action can affect the baby’s condition.

Important: More than 15 percent of all pregnancies end in miscarriage.

During pregnancy you do not need to use:

cinnamon;
cedar;
cypress;
basil;
lemongrass;
juniper.

These aromas are ways to greatly invigorate a pregnant woman and increase the tone of the uterus. In some cases, doctors also prohibit oils containing chamomile, rosewood and sandalwood.

What expectant mothers really need are herbal baths with calendula, mint and chamomile, which are added in any form. Some women put the herb in a cloth bag that they tie to the edge of the bathtub. In water, herbs begin to distribute their beneficial properties.

What to wear in early pregnancy

Expectant mothers are not recommended to purchase tight clothing that restricts movement. The expectant mother's wardrobe should be free and very comfortable. You can't go to high heels, since they shift the center of gravity and increase the load on the spine. Under no circumstances should you purchase synthetic underwear; you should give up thong panties for a while. You need to choose cotton underwear and wear special bras.

Cosmetical tools

In the early stages, the expectant mother should be very careful when choosing cosmetics. Substances that are dangerous for a baby’s development include: