What are the essential dietary restrictions, hormonal markers, and physical recovery strategies for a healthy pregnancy and postpartum transition?
Sleeping on your stomach puts pressure on your unborn baby. If it's early in your pregnancy or you're simply trying to conceive, you should try to get in the habit of sleeping on your side, so when you are further along, sleeping this way comes naturally.
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An accurate gestational age gives your prenatal care provider a basis for measuring the baby's development and growth. He is better able to identify problems with your baby's development with this information.
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Pregnancy is a time of emotional ups and downs. Many pregnant women find they cry more easily and with less provocation than they did before they became pregnant.
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During pregnancy, your body changes, and that includes your breasts. In preparation for your child, your breasts make changes to supply food for your newborn. Whether you plan to breastfeed or not, you may have some discomfort. Rest assured, this is not uncommon.
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In some instances, an upset stomach and other digestive complaints during early gestation could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, a potentially serious pregnancy condition that might lead to dehydration and other complications if left untreated.
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Pilates is a form of exercise that helps to restore correct postural alignment, release tension and develop suppleness and strength.
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Throughout your pregnancy, your body is continuously making adjustments to accommodate the growth of your baby. The ligaments that support your uterus are also adapting as they stretch to support your expanding uterus. These ligaments, known as the round ligaments, may cause pain or discomfort when strained.
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The general aches and pains of pregnancy are mostly nothing more than annoyances, but sometimes, they're an indicator of a deeper problem. Between 50 percent and 80 percent of pregnant women experience various types of back pain during pregnancy, suggests Spine-Health.com.
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Good dental care is an essential part of prenatal care. If you develop a cavity, you might have concerns about undergoing dental work.
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In the 1980s, previously little-known bacteria such as salmonella suddenly gained prominence, thanks to numerous outbreaks of food poisoning. In the case of salmonella, authorities quickly traced the source of the infection to eggs.
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As you approach your due date, you'll likely experience increased vaginal secretions and possibly even urine leakage from time to time. Unlike the usual increase in vaginal secretions, you may notice a thick, mucus-like discharge -- perhaps with a bit of blood.
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Making sure your diet stays healthy is vital to your baby's growth. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as bananas can help you manage several aspects of your pregnancy.
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At age 40, the disadvantages of having a baby are both long- and short-term. In the short term, you'll be dealing with physical issues. In the long term, you'll be facing social issues. These issues are not insurmountable, but only you can determine if you're willing to face them, no matter how sweet the payoff.
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Although high in fat, hamburgers do contain some nutrients beneficial to you and your baby, including iron and protein. Proper preparation is key to enjoying ground meat without risking bacterial illness, however. Opt for the leanest possible ground beef to make your hamburger a little healthier.
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Caesar salad contains romaine lettuce, garlic vinaigrette, Parmesan cheese, croutons and egg. Traditionally, the egg used in Caesar dressing is either coddled -- lightly cooked -- or raw.
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You must be careful about the foods you choose while pregnant. Not only will your nutrition affect the growth and development of your baby, it can also affect his health. Certain meats, such as smoked meats, should be avoided.
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When you're pregnant, your immune system is suppressed because of hormone changes. Certain foods, such as coleslaw, can trigger food poisoning for everyone, but when you're pregnant you may suffer from more severe reactions to food poisoning.
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Many sunscreens and diaper rash creams contain topical zinc oxide, a form of the mineral zinc. You can also find zinc oxide in oral over-the-counter supplements. Safety in pregnancy depends on the type of zinc oxide exposure and the dose.
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Water makes up approximately 60 percent of the human body. It is an essential substance that hydrates the body, aiding in the duties of temperature regulation, digestion, absorption, oxygen transport and many other vital functions of the body, including milk production during lactation.
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As your daughter goes through her teens, your relationship with her doctor will change. She will become more responsible for her health, and her checkups become focused on the issues and health concerns affecting teenagers.
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