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Signs Of Pregnancy

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For women who are actively trying to get pregnant, one question on their minds is “How do I know I am pregnant?”. While a pregnancy test is the only surefire way of knowing you are pregnant, there may be some early signs pointing to the possibility of a pregnancy.

However, it is equally important to note:

  • The presence of these symptoms does not mean that there is a pregnancy, and
  • The absence of these symptoms does not mean that there is no pregnancy.

What are the signs of pregnancy?

Implantation bleeding/spotting: After fertilization, the fertilized egg moves from the fallopian tube to the uterus. Implantation of the baby in the womb may cause slight bleeding (or commonly called spotting) and this occurs 10 to 12 days after fertilization. Although this is commonly confused with menstrual bleeding, it is actually seen a few days after ovulation and before normal menstrual flow. In addition, it is also far smaller than the normal flow of blood.

Cramps: Due to the rapid change in hormone levels, some women may also notice cramps. Although these cramps are also mistaken for menstrual cramps, it’s usually not as intense. 

Vaginal discharge: Some women may also have thick milky white/clear discharge. You might also see changes in the cervical mucus as the pregnancy matures.

Tenderness of the breasts: Progesterone, “the pregnancy hormone”, rapidly rises after implantation. This hormone causes the body to start getting ready for the baby. A major part of this is the production of breast milk via an increase/maturation in breast lobules/size.

Nausea a.k.a morning sickness: According to movies, this is the most distinct sign of pregnancy. While it is not so dramatic, early morning sickness is a pretty distinct sign of pregnancy. However, this mostly occurs in the later stages of pregnancy, and by the time it is significant enough, you would have had a positive pregnancy test.

The pregnancy strip remains the gold standard. Source:netdoctor.co.uk

Finally….

In all, the surest way to know you are pregnant is through a urine or blood pregnancy test. As stated earlier, these are not sure-fire pointers. In fact, some women can have a cryptic pregnancy that goes undetected. However, in combination, they paint a pretty good picture of your pregnancy status.

Therefore, if you really think you’re pregnant, the best option is to take a pregnancy test.

References

Mayo Clinic; 16/06/20; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/symptoms-of-pregnancy/art-20043853

Healthline; 16/06/20; www.healthline.com%2Fhealth%2Fpregnancy%2Fearly-symptoms-timeline&usg=AOvVaw3Ru4HcE1SzzUhkyyX_07wz

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A CHEMICAL PREGNANCY

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A chemical pregnancy, often referred to as a biochemical pregnancy, is a miscarriage that occurs early on before ultrasounds can detect a foetus. It is not a false pregnancy but the loss of a pregnancy before the fifth week of gestation, usually around the time a menstrual period is expected.

chemical pregnancy
Image Source: Pexels.com

In a biochemical pregnancy, the blood test results are positive although no fetus is growing. What causes a chemical pregnancy? What are the symptoms? And what treatment options are available?

Read on to find out!

Symptoms of a Chemical Pregnancy

A chemical pregnancy may have no signs or symptoms. This is because it typically does not persist long enough to result in pregnancy-related side effects like nausea and exhaustion. Some women may even miscarry early without knowing they are pregnant.

However, in some women who experience symptoms, it may present as a heavy period with cramping in pregnancy. Some other signs include:

  • a blood pregnancy test showing low hCG levels
  • mild to severe abdominal cramps during a period 
  • light spotting a week or so before the start of a regular period

In a biochemical pregnancy, pregnancy hormones are detectable but low, so you are unlikely to feel any of the typical early symptoms like exhaustion or pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting.

biochemical pregnancy
Image Source: Pexels.com

Causes of Chemical Pregnancy

There are no precise causes of biochemical pregnancies. However, in the majority of cases, a miscarriage may be caused by an abnormal embryo. Other causes may include:

  • abnormal hormone levels
  • uterine abnormalities
  • implantation outside the uterus
  • infections like chlamydia or syphilis which could alter vaginal discharge

Risk Factors

Although there are no sure ways to prevent a chemical pregnancy, there are some identifiable risk factors. Some of these include: 

Outlook

A chemical pregnancy does not mean you won’t be able to get pregnant or give birth normally in the future. Although there is currently no precise treatment for this condition, there are many options to help you get pregnant and deliver a healthy baby.

Spotting After Sex During Pregnancy

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Spotting or light bleeding after sex is not uncommon during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. This is because the cervix becomes more sensitive during pregnancy due to increased blood flow. Also, hormonal changes can also cause the cervix to bleed more easily.

However, it is always important to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any bleeding during pregnancy, including after sex. They may want to examine you to ensure that everything is okay with you and your baby.

In this article, you will find out if spotting after sex is normal, what can cause spotting after pregnancy, and how to prevent and treat spotting after pregnancy.

Is spotting after sex during pregnancy normal?

Spotting after sex, also known as post-coital bleeding, is not always normal and can have several causes. Therefore, it’s important to determine the underlying cause in order to determine whether it’s normal or not.

In some cases, spotting after sex can be normal, especially if it’s a person’s first sexual experience or due to vaginal dryness during intercourse. However, if the spotting or bleeding is persistent or accompanied by pain, discomfort, or other symptoms, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.

If you experience spotting after sex, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the cause. This way, your doctor can map out an appropriate treatment plan. They may perform a pelvic exam, Pap test, or other tests to diagnose the underlying issue.

Can having sex during pregnancy cause spotting?

Sex during pregnancy is generally safe for most women with uncomplicated pregnancies. However, it is possible for sexual activity to cause some vaginal spotting or bleeding during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.

Spotting after sex during pregnancy can occur because the cervix (the opening to the uterus) is more sensitive and engorged with blood during pregnancy. As a result, even minor trauma to the cervix during sex can cause some bleeding. This is more likely to occur in the first trimester when the cervix is still closed and more sensitive.

If you experience vaginal bleeding or spotting after sex during pregnancy, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider. While spotting after sex is usually not a cause for concern, it’s essential to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the bleeding.

In general, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about what activities are safe for you during pregnancy and what to watch out for in terms of warning signs of complications.

Causes of spotting after sex during pregnancy 

Spotting after sex during pregnancy can be caused by various factors. Some possible causes include:

Cervical irritation: The cervix, which is the opening to the uterus, can become irritated and bleed during pregnancy due to increased blood flow and sensitivity.

Infection: An infection in the vagina or cervix can cause bleeding after sex during pregnancy. This can include sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or bacterial vaginosis.

Cervical polyp: A cervical polyp is a growth on the cervix that can cause bleeding after sex during pregnancy. These polyps are usually benign and do not pose a risk to the pregnancy.

Placenta previa: Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, causing bleeding. This condition requires medical attention and monitoring, as it can be dangerous for the mother and baby.

Spotting After sex during pregnancy

Miscarriage: In some cases, bleeding after sex during pregnancy can be a sign of miscarriage. If you experience any other symptoms such as cramping or heavy bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Vaginal dryness: If there is not enough vaginal lubrication during sex, it can cause irritation and bleeding.

Cervical or uterine cancer: Bleeding after sex can be a symptom of cervical or uterine cancer.

Trauma or injury: Rough sex or injury to the genital area can cause bleeding.

Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones can cause changes in the thickness and health of vaginal tissue, which can lead to bleeding after sex.

Preventing spotting after sex during pregnancy

Here are some tips on how to prevent spotting after sex:

Use lubrication: Vaginal dryness can cause friction during sex, leading to small tears or cuts in the vaginal tissue. Using a water-based lubricant can help reduce friction and prevent bleeding.

Practice safe sex: Using condoms during sex can help prevent infections that may cause bleeding. Additionally, condoms can help reduce friction during sex, which can prevent vaginal tears.

Communicate with your partner: If you experience pain or discomfort during sex, it’s important to communicate with your partner. They may need to adjust their technique or use more lubrication.

Get regular check-ups: Regular gynecological exams can help detect and treat any abnormalities in the cervix or other parts of the reproductive system that may cause bleeding after sex.

Avoid sex during menstruation: Having sex during your period can increase the risk of bleeding, so it’s best to avoid it during this time.

Seek medical attention: If bleeding after sex persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or discharge, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Treatment of spotting after sex during pregnancy 

It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider if you experience spotting or bleeding during pregnancy, especially after sex. Your healthcare provider may perform a pelvic exam and order an ultrasound to check the health of your pregnancy and rule out any possible complications.

Depending on the cause of the spotting, your healthcare provider may recommend the following treatments:

Rest: Your healthcare provider may advise you to rest and avoid any strenuous activity, including sexual intercourse.

Pelvic rest: This may be recommended if there is a risk of preterm labor or if the spotting is caused by cervical changes. Pelvic rest involves avoiding sexual intercourse, tampons, douching, and anything else that could irritate the cervix.

Medications: If the spotting is caused by an infection or inflammation, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication.

Bed rest: In some cases, bed rest may be recommended to prevent further bleeding and ensure the health of the pregnancy.

Conclusion

It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure that you and your baby are healthy. If the bleeding is heavy, accompanied by cramping or abdominal pain, or if you experience a sudden increase in bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Intrauterine Pregnancy: Process, Confirmation and Complications

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An intrauterine pregnancy (IUP), or uterine pregnancy, occurs when a fertilized egg implants and begins to develop within the uterus, where it should be. This is really important because pregnancy can only develop and progress to full term in the uterus.

In this article, you’ll learn all there is to know about intrauterine pregnancy; the process, confirmation, and possible complications.

Keep reading.

Intrauterine Prengancy

An intrauterine pregnancy discovered via ultrasound indicates that the pregnancy is developing in the proper location.

after pains

Early pregnancy symptoms, such as abdominal or pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding, should be investigated to determine the location of the pregnancy and rule out any complications. Ectopic pregnancies develop elsewhere in the female reproductive tract (cervix, ovary, fallopian tubes) and are not viable, meaning they will not result in the birth of a child.

You can also read this post to learn more about ectopic pregnancy.

 Intrauterine pregnancy is the desired conception outcome for most couples wishing to have a child. However, it is vital to understand the various stages of intrauterine pregnancy and its potential risks.

Process of intrauterine pregnacy 

Intrauterine pregnancy begins when the ovary releases a mature egg during ovulation and this egg travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. If the egg is fertilized by a sperm cell during this journey, it forms a zygote, which then travels down the fallopian tube and implants in the lining of the uterus.

embryo transfer

This implantation usually occurs around 6-10 days after fertilization.

The embryo’s development characterizes the early stages of intrauterine pregnancy. The first two weeks after implantation are known as the germinal stage, during which the zygote divides and forms a ball of cells known as a blastocyst. The blastocyst then implants more deeply into the uterine lining, forming the placenta and embryonic tissues.

At around five weeks of gestation, the embryo develops a heartbeat and takes on a recognizable human form. This is also when the placenta starts to produce hormones that support the pregnancy, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Over the next few weeks, the embryo develops various organ systems, including the central nervous, heart, lungs, and digestive systems.

Intrauterine pregnancy is typically monitored through regular prenatal care, which includes regular check-ups with an obstetrician or midwife and various diagnostic tests to assess the health of the mother and the developing fetus. One of the most common tests used to monitor intrauterine pregnancy is an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the developing fetus and can detect any potential abnormalities.

How to confirm an Intrauterine pregnancy 

Using specific tests, it is possible to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy. One of the most common and widely used tests for confirming an intrauterine pregnancy is ultrasound. The following tests can confirm an intrauterine pregnancy:

Fetal Heart Activity

Examining fetal heart activity is another way to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy. After 6 weeks of pregnancy, fetal heart activity is visible. The heart rate of a fetus increases every week, and the average heart rate ranges from 100 to 120 beats per minute.

intrauterine pregnancy

A visible Yolk Sac

With a transvaginal ultrasound, it is possible to identify a visible yolk sac at about the 5th week of gestation. This yolk sac provides nutritional support to the developing embryo until the placenta forms.

Complications that can occur in intrauterine pregnancies 

While intrauterine pregnancies are generally safe and normal, specific risks and complications can arise.

Some of these complications include:

1. Miscarriage

This is one of the most common complications of intrauterine pregnancy. A miscarriage occurs when the developing fetus stops growing or dies before the 20th week of gestation.

Although miscarriages often result from chromosomal abnormalities, they may also arise due to maternal health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or infections.

2. Preterm Labor

This is another potential complication of intrauterine pregnancy, which occurs when the mother enters labor before the 37th week of pregnancy. Preterm labor can also increase the risk of complications for the developing fetus. Some of the fetal complications of preterm labor include respiratory distress syndrome and neurological problems.

3. Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition where the developing fetus is smaller than expected for its gestational age. IUGR can occur for various reasons, including maternal health problems, placental problems, and genetic abnormalities. IUGR can increase the risk of complications for the developing fetus, including respiratory distress syndrome and neurological problems.

4. Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a potentially life-threatening complication of intrauterine pregnancy that occurs when the mother develops high blood pressure and protein in her urine after the 20th week.

Causes of complication during intrauterine pregnancy 

Several factors can increase the likelihood of complications during intrauterine pregnancy. These include advanced maternal age, pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or drug use.

To minimize the risks of intrauterine pregnancy, women need to receive regular prenatal care and make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs. Prenatal vitamins, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can also help promote a healthy pregnancy.

The Takeaway

In cases where complications do arise, there are various treatments and interventions that can be used to improve outcomes. For example, women who are at high risk of preterm labor may be prescribed medications such as progesterone to help prevent early delivery.

In cases where the developing fetus has a medical condition or abnormality, doctors may recommend additional testing or procedures such as amniocentesis or fetal surgery.

Finally, it always helps to remember that your doctors and healthcare professionals are always available to help you through every step of this journey.

You are not alone.

Symptoms of Abdominal Bloating in Early Pregnancy

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Pregnancy is a life-changing event that often transforms many parts of a woman’s life, including her body, mind, and even lifestyle. Like with many other transformative experiences, you are likely concerned about the changes going on in your body. One area that many women commonly complain about is bloating. Bloating during pregnancy is to be expected and usually is not a cause for alarm.

This post addresses all your concerns regarding abdominal bloating during early pregnancy. Keep reading to find out more. 

bloating during pregnancy

What is Abdominal Bloating?

The simplest way to describe bloating is to liken it to feeling like an inflated balloon is in your belly. Sometimes, this feeling may be accompanied by a gassy and gurgly feeling. Bloating may be one of the most uncomfortable early pregnancy symptoms that you experience and will most likely last all through your pregnancy. 

What Causes Bloating During Pregnancy?

The main culprit behind abdominal bloating in the early stages of pregnancy is the pregnancy hormone, progesterone. Progesterone is the hormone responsible for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. However, the effects of this hormone also trigger bloating, burping, and passing gas. We’ll explain how.

Progesterone causes the smooth muscles in your body (including the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract) to relax. This can result in the slowing down of digestion, thereby causing you to feel bloated. On the bright side, slower digestion means that there is more time for the nutrients in your food to reach your bloodstream and consequently, reach your baby. 

What Are The Symptoms of Abdominal Bloating?

Chances are that you may have noticed your abdomen feeling fuller than usual in early pregnancy. The following are accompanying signs that confirm that you’re experiencing abdominal bloating:

  • Flatulence
  • Burping
  • Distended abdomen
  • Production of more gas
  • Constipation

All these are telltale signs that what you’re experiencing is abdominal bloating. 

How To Handle Bloating During Pregnancy

The truth is you’ll probably experience some amount of bloating during pregnancy no matter what you do. Although medical treatment is usually not necessary for the treatment of boating, there are tips on how to manage constipation that will consequently minimize bloating. Here are a few helpful tips:

  • Drink plenty water

One way to keep things moving through your digestive system is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will help to avoid constipation, a leading cause of gas and bloating. 

  • Eat smaller portions

The more food you eat, the more gas you’ll be pumping out. The best way to prevent your digestive system from getting overloaded is to eat in smaller portions at healthy intervals. This will keep gas pains and constipation in check. 

  • Regular exercise or gentle physical activity

It is good to make regular exercise a priority for general well-being. During pregnancy, gentle exercise and physical activities go a long way in helping your digestive system move smoothly. 

  • Cut down on foods that produce gas

Some foods are known for producing excess gas. While it is not necessary to give these foods up entirely during pregnancy, it is usually a good idea to cut down on their consumption. These foods include beans, cabbage, onions, fried foods, sugary foods, broccoli, and cauliflower. 

  • Try a warm drink

A glass of warm water or tea can do magic in relieving all sorts of pregnancy abdominal woes. When you feel bloated, you can try a glass of chamomile tea or lemon tea for relief.

  • Massage your abdomen

Gently massaging your abdomen can help ease bloating in the early stages of pregnancy.  

When to see a doctor

Bloating during pregnancy is usually to be expected and is not cause for concern. However, in rare cases, it can be a pointer to underlying health conditions. If bloating feels constant and does not get better with home remedies, you should see a healthcare practitioner.

bloating during pregnancy

Also, see a doctor if bloating occurs with any of the following issues:

  • Weight loss
  • Pain in the upper part of the abdomen
  • Fatigue and light-headedness
  • Frequent bouts of nausea and diarrhea

Conclusion

Bloating is a common problem that many women experience during the early stages of pregnancy or even throughout pregnancy. Although it is an uncomfortable symptom, it is usually harmless and is not a cause for concern in many women. High levels of progesterone and other hormonal changes are responsible for bloating during pregnancy. Sometimes, it can also be due to diet and lifestyle habits. 

Generally, dietary and lifestyle adjustments as well as home remedies are enough to relieve the symptoms of abdominal bloating during pregnancy. However, if your symptoms don’t improve, you should see a healthcare provider for additional suggestions in case bloating is a sign of an underlying health condition. 

Bio-Oil for Pregnancy | What You Need to Know

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There’s no doubt that pregnancy is a life-changing experience for every woman. A lot of changes happen to your body all through pregnancy, ranging from hormonal changes to physiological and physical changes. As a result, every friend, sister, or colleague wants to go all out with advice on things that work during pregnancy. A prime example is bio-oil use in pregnancy.

While most of these tips come from a good place, it is important to remember that each pregnancy is unique. One area where there’s usually a barrage of dos and don’ts is the area of self-care, especially regarding skincare and beauty routines. 

Bio-oil has long been a favorite among pregnant women. However, like it is with a lot of popular products, no one is 100% certain about its safety for use during pregnancy.

This post weighs in on the safety, benefits, and possible risks of using Bio-Oil while pregnant. Without delay, let’s get into it!

What is Bio-Oil?

Bio-Oil is a cosmetic skincare oil that promises to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

If you’re in Asia, you’d probably know it as bi-oil or biol. The oil has the remarkable ability to improve the overall health of the skin by:

  • Improving uneven skin tone
  • Tackling dehydration
  • Reducing signs of aging.

As a matter of fact, Bio-Oil skincare oil is the world’s leading scar and stretch mark product with over 400 awards to its name. 

What are the Ingredients in Bio-Oil?

Bio-Oil contains a cocktail of vitamins and plant-based oils that provide natural hydration and calmness. In addition, this product contains ingredients that facilitate skin glow and repair.

Some of these ingredients include:

  • Vitamins A and E
  • Calendula
  • Helianthus
  • Rosemary
  • Anthemis
  • Lavender
  • Chamomile oils.

It also contains the breakthrough ingredient, Purcellin Oil which reduces the thickness of the formulation and makes it easily absorbed. These oils serve primarily as anti-oxidants to help boost skin health and address several common concerns. 

Benefits Of Bio-Oil

The following are some of the benefits that Bio-Oil promises to deliver:

  • It helps to improve the appearance of both new and old scars.
  • It helps to reduce the possibility of stretch marks forming during pregnancy.
  • Helps to improve the appearance of existing stretch marks. 
  • Helps to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone in both light and dark skin types.
  • Helps to retain skin moisture 
  • Helps to smoothen and tone aging skin on the face and body.

Is it safe to use Bio-Oil during pregnancy?

Bio-oil remains the most popular skincare product among pregnant women.

However, with all the buzz the oil gets as a “holy grail” for preventing stretch marks in pregnancy, there isn’t enough scientific data to back up whether or not it’s safe for use during pregnancy.

According to Bio-Oil, a company that originated in Europe, the oil has undergone safety assessments under the Regulation of the European Parliament and the Council on Cosmetic Products. The parameters used to assess the oil include its toxicological profile, chemical structure, level of inclusion, and total level of daily exposure.

As a result, scientists determined that the oil is safe for use even by pregnant and non-pregnant women. 

Potential Risks Associated With Bio-Oil Use During Pregnancy

On the other hand, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the U.S.A. has pointed out multiple ingredients in the oil as potential risks for pregnant and breastfeeding women regardless of the quantity of such ingredients that are used.

For example, one of its ingredients, retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A commonly referred to as retinol is an ingredient of concern for pregnant women. Generally, as a rule of thumb, it is often advised that if the potential risks of a product outweigh its benefits, such a product should be discarded.

The company however claims that the amount of vitamin A in Bio-Oil is well below the European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCSS) threshold for safe use in pregnant women. In a bid to be more cautious, the company has developed a product that doesn’t contain retinoids and was shown to perform just as well as the original formulation. 

The Takeaway

The number of dos and dont’s during pregnancy are endless.

As a result, making a decision on what is safe or unsafe can be overwhelming. That’s why we are here to help you. Remember, it is important to always filter information and make adequate research about any of your concerns. 

Bio-Oil has been proven to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks, including those that form during pregnancy.

Some of its ingredients also infuse the skin with lots of benefits like reducing the appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone. However, you should take note that some of these ingredients that are of great benefit to your skin while you’re not pregnant can potentially harm you or your child when you are. If you’re considering using Bio-Oil while pregnant, it is good to be informed about potential risks.

You should also make sure you discuss with your healthcare provider to determine what’s considered safe for you and your baby. 

How to Handle Pregnancy Scare | What to Do

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The very thought of an unplanned pregnancy can be really scary. In fact, handling a pregnancy scare can be worse if you have had unprotected sex, skipped a number of contraceptive pills in the course of the month, or watched your partner’s condom break during sex.

At the end of this post, you’d have learned why you have a pregnancy scare, how to handle a pregnancy scare, and the early signs of pregnancy.

Let’s Get Started!

Table of contents

First, What’s A Pregnancy Scare?

A pregnancy scare is also known as pregnancy panic or pregnancy anxiety. It is defined as a sudden fear of getting pregnant. The major reason women get scared of being pregnant is that they are not ready to have a baby.

In most cases, a pregnancy scare can be terrifying, especially because you have to wait for days or weeks to find out the truth.

How to handle pregnancy scare

The days or weeks of waiting can be the worst ever.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this; we’re here for you. That’s why we’ve put up this article for you. the wait may be very demanding, however, with the info in this article, you’ll be fine.

Why You May Have A Pregnancy Scare

Of course, the first and most obvious cause of a pregnancy scare is having unprotected sex without using emergency contraceptives. In addition, most women have pregnancy scares after a missed or late period.

Furthermore, the scare may begin to feel pretty real when you begin to observe signs that seem a lot like the common signs of early pregnancy.

What To Do When You Have A Pregnancy Scare

If you think you may be pregnant, there are a couple of things you can do.

These are:

1. Stay calm:

Freaking out is not the best option for you at this point. It won’t make anything easier. At this stage, you’re just scared, and it has not been confirmed that you’re pregnant. Stay open-minded and calm in order to know the truth about what has happened.

2. Check your menstrual cycle

There’s a chance that you’re just having late periods or you’ve missed your count. Interestingly, many women have irregular menstrual cycles. Some can be as long as 35 days, while some are as short as 21 days. If you are unsure about the duration of your cycle, get a calendar and confirm the dates of your last 3 or 4 menstrual periods.

This helps you to know if your period is truly late or if you’re just worried over nothing.

3. Inform your partner

Without assisted reproduction, it takes at least two individuals to make a baby.

Talk to your partner about what you’re going through. Talk about your pregnancy scare and go through all the subsequent steps together.

4. Take an over-the-counter pregnancy test:

The best time to take an over-the-counter (OTC) pregnancy test is in the morning. This is because human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is more concentrated in the urine in the morning and the urine is more potent at this time.

How to handle pregnancy scare

This makes the test more sensitive in the morning. However, it is important to note that you should not rely on this test alone to confirm pregnancy. This is because there’s a slight possibility of getting a false positive result.

5. Schedule an appointment with a health care practitioner

Irrespective of what your OTC pregnancy test reveals, you need to visit a healthcare practitioner. They will confirm whether you’re pregnant with a blood test, ultrasound, or both.

If the result comes out to be positive, there are different options available to you, and they include:

i. You can put the baby up for adoption. This can be done through a private or public adoption agency. If you think you can’t take care of your baby, you may consider this option.

ii. You can keep the baby: Honestly, you’re not the first to have an unplanned pregnancy, and you won’t be the last. Don’t flog yourself too much over it. Also, the fact that you didn’t plan for this pregnancy does not mean you won’t be a great parent.

You can and you will if you commit yourself to doing so.

If the result comes out to be negative, there are things you can also do to prevent future occurrences. They are:

i. Review your contraceptive options: if you think your current birth control methods are not working for you, you can change them.

Why not identify and use another birth control that works best for you?

Speak with your healthcare provider to know the other options available to you and convenient for you. In addition to this, your doctor will also help you find out why your period is late.

Preventing Future Pregnancy Scares

The best and most effective way of preventing future pregnancy scares is abstinence.

Abstinence is the only contraceptive option that has proven to be 100% effective. If you’re not ready for a baby, stay away from sex.

However, if abstinence is difficult or impossible, the following tips would be very helpful:

A. Use a condom every time: condoms help to reduce the risk of pregnancy. They also provide protection against some forms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How to handle pregnancy scare

B. Use the proper condom size: “inside condoms’, inserted into the vagina (for ladies) are one size fits all. You don’t have to be certain whether it’s your size. For males, there are different sizes of condoms. Using a too-big or too-small condom may cause it to slip off or break during sex.

This increases your risk of pregnancy and/or contracting an STI.

C. Wear it correctly: in terms of effectiveness, not knowing how to wear your condom properly is pretty close to not wearing it at all. Inside condoms are inserted in a similar way to tampons or menstrual cups. Outside condoms are worn like gloves. Don’t wear a condom if it is worn, damaged, or past its expiration date.

D. Other contraceptives: condoms are not the only contraceptive option available. You can try some other short-term methods, including:

  • Oral pills
  • Cervical caps
  • Diaphragm
  • Topical patches
  • Vaginal rings
  • Injection

E. Long-term contraceptive options: If you don’t want a child for three years or more, you can consider an implant or an IUD.

F. Permanent contraceptives: These options are available if you don’t want to have a child again in life. Be sure about this option before opting for it. Your healthcare provider will also guide you through this decision-making process.

In addition, you can prevent another pregnancy scare by carefully studying and following the details explained in Step 5 of what to do during a pregnancy scare above.

Conclusion

Finally, every pregnancy scare can be really scary.

Thankfully, you don’t have to go through it alone. Speak with a family member, a trusted friend, or a counselor to help you through the process. Remember the steps to follow as outlined in this article and do not forget that we’re always here to help you.

7 Early Signs of Labor at Home | What You Should Do

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Like every other journey in life, pregnancy has an endpoint. At the end of this exciting journey of changes, development, and anticipation, your precious one (or two!) would lie blissfully in your arms; just after a major event called labor. Again, like other major events, labor occurs in stages and has obvious signs. In this article, you’d learn 7 early signs of labor and what you should do during this period.

This knowledge is really important because your doctors may ask you to remain at home in the early stages of labor until your contractions are closer and stronger.

Thankfully, this article would carefully guide you on all you need to do in this period of early labor.

What Is Labor?

Labor simply refers to the natural process of childbirth, as opposed to other ‘assisted’ methods of child delivery like cesarean sections or surrogacy. It is characterized by labor contractions which are the repeated tightening and relaxation of the uterine muscles as your body prepares for childbirth.

early signs of labor

As we mentioned earlier, labor begins with an initial steady contraction and continues until both your baby and the placenta have been safely delivered.

Interestingly, labor is unique for every mom-to-be.

In fact, some women experience little to know signs or symptoms of labor. On the other hand, other would-be-moms go through all of the 7 signs of early labor that would be discussed in this article.

Just before we learn about the signs of labor, let us consider the stages involved in the all-important event that is labor.

Stages of Labor

For most women, labor occurs in stages characterized by these two factors:

  • Degree of cervical dilation (extent of cervical widening)
  • Timing of contractions

As a result of these factors, there are three obvious stages of labor:

  1. Early Labor: At this stage, the cervix is about 3cm dilated and the mild and slightly irregular contractions may last for about 30-45 seconds with about 30 minute intervals between each contraction.
  2. Active Labor: At this point, cervical dilation is around 4-7cm and the stronger contractions may last for about 45-60 seconds with a 3-5-minute interval.
  3. Transition: This is the final stage of labor before your baby arrives. At this stage, your cervix would be about 8-10cm wide and the contractions may last for about 60-90 seconds with 2-minute intervals.

7 Signs of Early Labor

As we mentioned earlier, each labor is unique.

early signs of labor

In this section, you’ll learn about seven common signs of early labor. They are:

1.     Contractions

This is the first and most obvious sign of early labor. In plain terms, labor contractions are the repeated tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles in preparation for delivery. During contractions, it is normal to feel a certain discomfort or ache in your back or lower abdomen.

For most women, these contractions travel in a wavy motion from the top of the uterus and are similar to menstrual cramps, although labor contractions become stronger and more frequent as time goes on. Thankfully, contractions come at intervals and you can rest between phases.

2.     Lightening

Lightening during labor is the process of your baby moving into your pelvis before delivery. This is also called ‘baby dropping’. In some cases, lightening can occur weeks or hours before labor.

An extension of this sign of early labor is frequent urination. This is because the uterus rests on the bladder and after lightening your uterus would become significantly heavier due to your baby’s weight.

3.     Diarrhea

Another tell-tale sign of early labor is the passage of loose or watery stools. As your body prepares for childbirth, the muscles in your uterus relax and contract periodically. In addition, your intestinal muscles also relax, leading to pre-labor diarrhea.

Thankfully, the good news is that this sign of early labor is completely normal and all you’ve got to do is drink enough water.

4.     Mucus Plug Passage

During pregnancy, your body does all it can to protect your little one. A prime example is the presence of a mucus plug that seals off your uterus from the external environment. In the early stage of labor, this mucus plug may come out in one large piece or tiny little bits.

Mucous Plug

Furthermore, some women also notice increased or thickened vaginal discharge in the final days of pregnancy.

5.     Weight Fluctuations

Of course, every pregnant woman is no stranger to this.

In most cases, pregnancy weight gain tapers off at the end of this beautiful journey. Sometimes, the early stages of labor may even cause you to lose a bit of weight. This is a result of any or all of the following factors:

  • Reduced amniotic fluid volume
  • Increased urination
  • Diarrhea
  • Increased movements/activity

6.  Loose Joints

During pregnancy, your body releases a certain hormone called ‘relaxin’. This hormone loosens up your joints and ligament in preparation for labor and childbirth.

Just before labor, it is normal to feel a little wobbly and more relaxed in your joints. Don’t worry, it’s just your body’s way of making sure your little one has a smooth passage into your arms.

7. Back Pain

Here’s another common sign of early labor.

In this period, it is normal to experience pain in your lower back while moving through the stages of labor. Sometimes, this pain may remain constant throughout labor. In other instances, it may come and go.

Water Breaking During Labor

In many instances, water breaking during labor comes after other symptoms of early labor have already arrived.

Yes, we know this is in sharp contrast to the popular belief that labor only begins after your water breaks. While this may occur, it is a very unlikely situation. Furthermore, water breaking may even happen before a pregnancy is up to term or due for labor.

The concept of ‘water breaking’ refers to the process of membrane rupture that is characterized by the leakage and outward pouring of amniotic fluid.

In fact, it is one of the final signs of labor.

What To Do At Home During Early Labor

As we discovered earlier, labor occurs in three stages.

For most women, healthcare providers recommend staying at home until the second or active stage of labor. While waiting, you can follow these steps to stay healthy and ready:

  • Have a community: Receive support from your family, friends, or partner as you await delivery.
  • Use distractions: For this, you can watch TV, listen to music, or walk around your house
  • Get a massage: A shoulder and lower back massage can do wonders to ease the pain of contractions during labor
  • Focused breathing: You can read this article to learn how certain breathing techniques can ease the pain and make your labor easier
  • Take a warm shower
early signs of labor

While moving through the stages of labor, remember to call your doctor if:

  • You’re experiencing vaginal bleeding
  • There’s any feeling of sharp or severe pain
  • You are having blurry vision or a serious headache
  • You have a high fever

Conclusion

Finally, it helps to remember that labor occurs in stages, and you may or may not experience all the signs discussed in this article. Also, remember that these signs may come early in labor or appear later in the active stage of your labor process.

As a result, the best option is to eat healthily, exercise well, attend your antenatal clinics and follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines on when to come to the hospital.

12 Signs of Respiratory Distress in Kids and What to do

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Children who are undergoing respiratory distress from having trouble breathing frequently exhibit symptoms of not getting enough oxygen. Symptoms associated with breathing issues are referred to as “respiratory distress.” Children’s respiratory distress can have a variety of causes, but most often, infections, long-term illnesses, or clogged airways are to blame.

Some of the symptoms that may show that your child is not getting enough oxygen are highlighted in this article. Thankfully, knowing the symptoms of respiratory distress is the first step in knowing how to react.

Signs of Respiratory Distress

You need to look out for the following signs and symptoms to determine whether your child may be experiencing respiratory distress.

1. Breathing Rate

A child may be having problems breathing or not obtaining enough oxygen if their breaths per minute increase. Is your youngster breathing faster than usual? Count their breaths for one minute.

respiratory distress

2. Color Changes

When a child isn’t getting enough oxygen, bluish stains may appear around the mouth, on the inside of the lips, or on the fingernails. The skin color may also appear light or gray. Check the area around the lips, eyes, hands, and feet—especially the nail beds.

If your child’s skin color changes, it could indicate that their blood circulation is inefficient or that there is not enough oxygen in their system.

3. Wheezing

The air channels may be smaller, which would make breathing more challenging, as indicated by a tight, whistling, or melodic sound heard with each breath. Keep an ear out for grunting or coughing when your child is breathing. One typical asthmatic symptom is wheezing.

4. Retraction

With each breath, the chest seems to sag in right below the neck and/or under the breastbone, which is an attempt to fill the lungs with more air. Check to see if the chest contracts with each breath, paying careful attention to the area surrounding the ribs and the collarbone.

5. Nose Flaring

When breathing, a child may appear to be working harder to breathe if their nose stretches apart. See if their nostrils enlarge when you breathe in.

6. Sweating/Clammy Skin

In cases of respiratory distress, the skin doesn’t feel warm to the touch, though there may be more sweat on his/her head. Furthermore, the skin may frequently feel clammy or chilly. When the respiratory rate is really rapid, this can occur. Check to see if your child’s skin is cool and sweaty by touching it.

The skin may feel chilly or clammy while his/her head may be sweaty.

7. Runny nose, blocked nose & sneezing

Sneezing, a blocked nose, and a runny nose are typical symptoms of a cold. Your child may have a high temperature in addition to having a cold. If allergies are the cause of your child’s runny or congested nose or sneezing, they may also have trouble falling asleep.

respiratory distress

When allergies are the source of a runny or plugged nose, a high temperature is unusual. You should seek medical help if your child has a runny nose that smells or is bloody since there may be an obstruction in the nose.

Another cause of allergies in babies is the common infection with the Respiratory Syncytial Virus.

8. Coughing

Everyone coughs at one time or the other.

A cough assists in clearing the airway of mucus as well as debris like smoke and dust. Typically, a random cough is not a major warning sign. Coughs that are more chronic may be brought on by a viral infection or cold that generally goes away in a few days.

Coughing may occasionally be a sign of another ailment for which medical help is required. Consult a doctor if your child coughs, has a fever, is having trouble breathing, is unable to engage in typical activities, isn’t eating or drinking normally, throws up later, or has these symptoms for more than three to four weeks

9. Problems with Feeding and Drinking

Feeding and drinking issues may indicate a problem with the lungs or airways. If your child has an infection, they may have trouble breathing while eating. In addition, if your infant is having trouble breastfeeding, seek medical assistance. If your child is exhibiting symptoms of dehydration, you need to get care right once.

These include:

  • Consistent sleepiness
  • Having no tears when they cry
  • Dry mouth
  • Peeing a dark yellow color
  • Long periods without urination

10. Aches and Pain

A chest infection may cause headaches, aches and pains, and chest pain. Asthma symptoms might also include a tight, painful chest. Infants do not typically complain about aches and pains, however, they might become agitated when you pick them up.

If your child is older, they might say things like, “My chest hurts,” or “I have a stomachache.” Younger children may also rub their stomachs.

11. Colored Mucus

Mucus shields your child’s airways. It pulls dirt and germs out of their lungs by trapping them. If it doesn’t function properly or if there is too much of it, mucus might be an issue. Catarrh is a buildup of mucus in your child’s airways.

Yellow, green, or brown mucus indicates an allergy or illness. However, it might not be serious or require medical attention. An example of a mild infection that doesn’t require medicines is green mucus coming from the nose.

12. Change in Body Position

In an effort to breathe more easily, your child may alter his/her posture by leaning forward or turning his head upwards or backwards.

Respiratory distress symptoms are similar to those of other diseases or ailments. For a diagnosis, always speak with your child’s primary care physician.

respiratory distress

Three Things to Do If Your Child Is in Respiratory Distress

  1. Stay calm and reassure your child
  2. Place your child in a comfortable position, usually sitting up.
  3. If you think your child has a fever, take his temperature:
    • In baby’s bottom (rectally) if under 4 months
    • Under the arm (axillary) if he is older than 4 months
    • In the mouth (oral) if older than 4 years

When to Call the Doctor

Seek medical attention if your child:

  • Shows any signs of respiratory distress
  • Has a fever:
    • Rectal temperature is more than 100.4 F or less than 96.5 F if younger than 4 months
    • Axillary temperature is more than 103 F, if older than 4 months.
    • Oral temperature is more than 102 F for 3 days or more than 104 F, if older than 4 years
  • Has a cough and phlegm or drainage is thick and yellow-green colored

Finally,

When your child has to work hard to breathe, it may indicate that not enough oxygen is reaching the lungs or that an illness is beginning. You should carefully look out for the signs of respiratory distress and symptoms discussed above. Keep your home surfaces dust-free, and everyone should practice good hand washing to prevent the spread of germs around your child and keep your child away from people who are sick.

Pregnancy and Ovulation | All You Need To Know

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Ovulation is a stage of the 28-day menstrual cycle. Ovulation specifically refers to the release of the egg (ovum) from the ovary of a female. If the egg is not fertilized during that time, it disintegrates (breaks down), and menstruation (your period) begins approximately two weeks (14 days) later. In this post, you’ll learn all you need to know about pregnancy and ovulation.

Don’t stop reading.

What Is Ovulation?

Reproductive hormones cooperate to activate the ovaries during the menstrual cycle, which leads to the development of follicles. Every follicle contains an immature egg. Ovulation is the release of an egg, or ovum, from the ovaries.

Pregnancy and Ovulation

In most women, ovulation occurs on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle.

After ovulation, the egg moves through the fallopian tubes and into the uterus. When the sperm and egg come into contact at the proper time, conception may occur.

Signs of Ovulation

There are specific signs and also various methods of detecting ovulation. A proper understanding of these signs and symptoms is helpful while trying to conceive. You can also read this post about 7 interesting signs of ovulation.

These signs include:

1. Fertile quality vaginal discharge

Cervical mucus production is enhanced by an increase in estrogen levels before ovulation. Cervical mucus also undergoes a change in appearance, going from having a stickier, clumpier texture to resembling raw egg whites.

2. Ovulation predictor test strips

Thankfully, there are also tests available that can tell you when ovulation is about to occur, you urinate on the test to acquire a result, they operate similarly to pregnancy tests. This test strip works by detecting luteinizing hormone in your bloodstream.

3. Ovulation monitor

The ovulation monitor is a fancier form of an ovulation test strip. Some digital ovulation monitors utilize urine test strips to evaluate hormone levels, while others determine upcoming ovulation by measuring saliva, cervical secretions, or temperature.

Pregnancy and Ovulation

4. Cervical opening

The cervix rises upward, softens to the touch, and opens slightly as ovulation approaches.

5. Basal body temperature

This is the most common method of determining ovulation dates. It depends on software that uses temperature data to track the progress of your menstrual cycle. However, this method is not reliable for women with irregular periods.

6. Typical cycle length

An ovulation calendar can help you determine when you are most fertile. Although it is not 100% accurate, the findings are adequate if you have regular cycles.

Conception and Fertilization

When an egg cell from a woman travels down one of the fallopian tubes from the ovary to the uterus and it combines with a sperm cell from a fertile man as it swims up through the vagina and into the uterus, conception occurs.

You can also read this article on how to calculate your conception date.

An embryo is the product formed when the sperm fertilizes the egg. Interestingly, the baby’s DNA and sex are determined at the time of fertilization. Your child will be a boy if the sperm carries the Y chromosome and a girl if the sperm carries the X chromosome.

The fertilized egg spends about 3 to 4 days in the fallopian tube after fertilization. Within the next 24 hours, this fertilized egg rapidly divides into multiple cells. It continues to divide as it slowly passes through the fallopian tube and enters the uterus.

At this point, your body begins to release various hormones that serve as the basis of a pregnancy test and promote prenatal development.

It is at this stage that a woman experiences a missed period.

Do you stop ovulating immediately after conception?

Yes, ovulation stops after conception.

After ovulation, the absence or failure of fertilization leads to menstruation or periods. On the other hand, if the ovulated egg is fertilized, your body knows that you’re pregnant and stops the process of ovulation. This is because the hormones that cause the various signs of pregnancy also inhibit ovulation.

ovulation

Furthermore, you won’t have periods while pregnant because the uterine lining remains fixed to ensure proper prenatal development during pregnancy. In the rare instance that you experience periods or heavy bleeding in the early stage of pregnancy, please consult your doctor.

Does Ovulation Happen During Pregnancy?

Although it is possible to get a positive ovulation test result during pregnancy, you cannot ovulate while pregnant.

This only happens in cases of false positive ovulation test results arising from fluctuating hormone levels. Remember, a lot of these home test kits are only about 99% accurate.

Additionally, because pregnancy causes a significant rise in hormone levels, those levels could be a little too high, causing the test to show a positive result for ovulation. Therefore, a positive ovulation test result may simply be the consequence of hormonal changes or, in that case, a flawed test.

Conclusion

Only extensive tests that look for many eggs or ultrasounds that check to see if an egg has been released can provide a 100% guarantee of ovulation. In some circumstances, your body may be just about to become pregnant or, regrettably, just about to have a miscarriage.

Since our biological mechanisms are designed to stop the ovulation cycle once the uterus has a fertilized egg to care for, ovulation stops once an egg is fertilized and the woman is pregnant.