Abortion is done in many ways. And sometimes it shocks even those that are not too religious. Some are too gory for the laymen and beginners to imagine. Usually different procedures are done, depending on the stage of pregnancy.

One to three months

During early pregnancy, drugs can be used to induce abortion. One of the drugs used is mifepristone, which kills the baby and force detachment from the wall of the uterus. Then, the mother is given a labor-inducing drug to expel the baby. This is used up to the third month of pregnancy.

During this period, the common procedure is to use a hand operated suction pump or small electric pump. This sucks the baby out of the uterus. This is done usually for babies less than 6 weeks old. It is also done by scraping the baby out of the uterus by an instrument called curette. Sometimes several passes of suction tube (cannula) is needed to take out all parts of the baby left inside the uterus, after scraping.

Fourth to sixth month

For abortions done during this period, a combination of suction procedure and scraping of the uterus is done. The cervix is dilated wide enough to allow scarping of now considerably larger fetus, which is already complete. The fetus is dismembered using forceps. Then it is extracted parts by parts. Sometimes the skull is already too large, thus it is crushed for easier extraction. Then the job is finished off by sucking the remaining parts. And, to make the job easier, the fetus is killed through injected drugs.  Another method of killing the fetus is by puncturing amniotic fluid sac- either by draining it, or replacing it by saline /urea solution to kill the fetus. Parts taken out are reassembled in a tray to verify if all are taken out of the uterus. But the gory part of it is that if it is taken out alive, in spite of those murderous procedures, the fetus is left to die in the tray.

Seventh to ninth month

During this period, the cervix has to be dilated even more, because the fetus is already quite large. The fetus is killed inside and his legs are positioned near the cervix opening. The legs are pulled up to the shoulder, and then an instrument is inserted near the neck for it to suck the brain. This will collapse the skull for easier pulling. The hard part of this is that if the fetus is pulled out alive despite of the poison injected, it is killed outside the uterus. This is murder.

A mother can do breastfeeding as long as she wants; and as long as she deemed it needed for her baby. The advantages of breastfeeding include the following:

- It helps to fight certain infections.

- It helps to prevent allergies.

- It is the best way to stop baby’s tantrums.

- It is the best means to help a child who is hurt.

As women, we should know how breastfeeding affects us and our newborn baby. We have to be abreast of the scientific information needed in order to utilize its advantages further. There must be an initial stimulation of breastfeeding because it is a fact that breasts stop producing milk after giving birth. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breast milk as the prime source of nutrients and feeding for your tots.

These are other advantages of breastfeeding:

- It aids you, the mother, to lose weight.

- It is considered as the cheapest; and, at the same time most effective means to feed your child.

From breastfeeding the baby could receive amino acids in proteins, vitamins and enzymes. All these contribute to the complete nutrition that the baby needs at this stage.

Breastfeeding can be done 3 minutes right after giving birth. The first little sucks and bites and the first milk produced by mothers, called colostrum is the best source of nutrition for the newborn baby. When the nipples are stimulated, it also aids to stop uterine bleeding by enabling the uterus to contract.

The time comes when the baby could open one’s eyes, and place its fist into the mouth, this is the signal that the mother can now offer her breasts for feeding. Unless prescribed by doctor, never give newborn baby with water filled with sugar.

The last and most important thing to know and understand is the proper manner to breastfeed a child. Here is how it should be done:

- Press gently a few drops from your nipples until it is already moistened.

- Now, encourage the baby to open his/her mouth through massaging the lips as gently as possible.

- Finally, after breastfeeding is over; do not pull your nipples away from the baby’s mouth immediately. Do it gradually and tenderly; you could start by inserting your finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth.

The most usual question of a pregnant woman is, “Is it normal to bleed during my pregnancy?”

Well, most experts convey that bleeding during pregnancy does not pertain to a menstruation that a woman naturally experience.  According to medical experts, menstruation is not possible during pregnancy; because menstruation refers to the shedding of the uterus lining, which will not permit ovulation.

However, light-blood spotting is often mistaken as a menstruation.

Bleeding pregnancy is one risk a woman must be most prudent about. About 20 to 30 % pregnancies are characterized by this vaginal bleeding. It is most likely to occur during the first trimester or first three months of pregnancy.

Caution must be taken when vaginal bleeding continues until the second trimester of pregnancy. It is already an abnormal characteristic of a pregnant woman. This requires a medical help to stop the bleeding so that the pregnancy can be continued under healthy condition.

Emergency occurs when at the 28^th week after pregnancy, bleeding still persists. It is usually characterized by mild to severe abdominal pains, and hemorrhage; the latter is the common cause of death of mothers in the United States. About 4% of mothers’ deaths are due to hemorrhage.

It is important for all women to know how to treat bleeding during pregnancy; whether it is a home-care or hospital care treatment.

A bleeding expectant mother should take note of the following cautions as a personal remedy to her dangerous condition:

- Avoid lifting and all strenuous activities.

- Avoid having a sexual intercourse, douching, and tampons.

- Get an adequate rest and sleep.

- Relax and free yourself from stress.

- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

If in case, there occurred severe vaginal bleeding, do not hesitate to seek for medical remedy; because this is an aggravated condition that needs immediate attention from medical professional.

In the event that bleeding pregnancy cannot be remedied anymore, a bleeding expectant mother must be prepared for its possible outcomes, which include implantation bleeding and miscarriage.

Any woman should be prepared to handle those pregnancy risks. It is her responsibility to be aware of the dos and don’ts of her current condition.

People around her, loved ones, especially her husband must be ready to lend support, both emotionally and mentally.

So here you are, looking for ways on how you can lose weight after your pregnancy. You need to consult your trusted doctor to help you on this.

The first thing you have to consider is your current weight. If you were on the average weight before you got pregnant, this means that you gained at 25-35 pounds during your pregnancy. And as advised by medical experts, you can lose these extra pounds in just a couple of months by just watching what you eat, and through regular exercise.

However, if you were overweight before pregnancy, and at the same time you gained more pounds than what your doctor prescribed, it can take a year or longer to get back into your natural shape. It is critical to take immediate action to remove the weight you gained because if not, this can stay in your body for a very long time.

It was found in recent studies that if a woman, after pregnancy does not lose the baby weight as soon as possible, it can lead to obesity that will last for 15-20 years.

All women, after giving birth are eager to lose weight, and bring back their natural shape; but an important caution is to be patient with themselves.

Do not pressure yourself too much to achieve this goal right away. You need to take time, and patiently wait, for this goal to be achieved.

Before you proceed with your diet, and exercise, one important question you have to ask yourself is why will I do this? Well, the primary reason here is you need to do it for yourself and your family. Your objective is clear, and it is time for you to make it happen.

These are the things you have to bear in mind in losing weight after pregnancy:

- Eat a wide variety of foods; but coupled it with just enough servings every meal. It is important that you do not allow yourself to be hungry while doing this.

- Do not deprive yourself of food that you want to eat. As a new mom, you are prone to all kinds of stress so better satisfy your food cravings but at an average level.

- There should always be fruits and vegetables beside you whenever you feel hungry.

- Be physically active and have your regular exercise.

- Finally, it is important that you do not go beyond 1,800 calories; it might be unhealthy for you.

Ovulation is commonly called as the fertile time of women. It has been defined as the most suitable time in a month to be pregnant. In this process, a mature egg is released from the ovary. During ovulation, the uterus lining is thickened in preparation for the coming of a fertilized egg.

On the other hand, if these eggs are not fertilized and there is a shedding in the uterine wall, ovulation will not occur; and, in contrast menstruation will take place, and in turn, a woman will not be able to get pregnant.

After knowing and understanding how the process of ovulation happens, I am quite sure you are also interested to familiarize yourself with some basic should-know facts about ovulation. Here they are:

Do you know that?

- The normal life of an egg is from 12-24 hours after leaving the ovary.

- During every ovulation, only one egg is released.

- One common characteristic of woman who is under the ovulation period is light blood spotting.

- Some of the side effects of ovulation to women are unexplainable stress and illness.

- It normally takes 6-12 days after ovulation, for a fertilized egg to be implanted in the uterus.

- Occurrence of ovulation is still possible despite the non-occurrence of the menstrual period, and vice versa.

- Mittelschmerz can be experienced by women during ovulation period. This is characterized by a slight pain near the ovaries. It also refers to middle pain in German.

It is also important to track your ovulation period. It normally starts from the first day of your menstrual cycle until the first day of your next period. Your ovulation period is approximately 28-32 days; however, this varies for every woman.

Ovulation has two phases:

1. The first phase is referred to as follicular phase- it starts from the first day of the last menstrual period until ovulation.

2. The second phase is the luteal period- it starts from ovulation until the start of the next period.

There are also various means to track your ovulation period. These are as follows:

- One is through being aware of your fertility.

- Another is through using ovulation kits and fertility monitors.

Women, obviously, have been giving birth for hundreds of thousands of years. The basic process has changed little over that time. But medical knowledge has grown by leaps and bounds.

During the mid-19th century that knowledge consisted of a growing set of tools and drugs to minimize pain. By the mid-20th century, though, birth was almost something that happened to a woman and her baby, rather than something they did. Contemporary knowledge can help the expectant mother take more active control of her birth and deliver with the highest chances for her baby’s health.

The Bradley method was devised by Dr. Robert Bradley in the 1940s. The emphasis was, and is, on a set of techniques to deliver without the use of drugs. There are pros and cons to the approach, since anything a mother receives will affect the baby. With the drugs designed today, and the dosages low enough, the odds of harm are very low. Completely drug-free births are not entirely without risks either.

The uncontroversial aspect of the Bradley method is its use of breathing techniques that aid the woman during periods of non-contraction. Relaxation techniques are helpful at those moments to prepare for more active moments. The deep breathing taught in Bradley classes is a positive benefit.

Lamaze has its own proponents and detractors, and more similar reasons. Developed by a French physician and popularized in the 1960s, it too emphasizes ‘natural’ childbirth. It discourages use of pain control drugs, in favor of hot and cold packs, positioning and breath control.

The Lamaze breathing techniques, like Bradley, are helpful – more so during the more active parts of delivery. The rapid, in-out-in intake of air helps fully oxygenate tissues and control pain. The focus required to maintain that breathing, while also focusing on the need to push in the proper way helps keep the mother’s mind off the pain and onto the process.

Both Bradley and Lamaze classes emphasize the importance of having a birth partner to assist in delivery. That can be a friend, spouse or even a midwife. Having that person there is an emotional comfort. Either professionally, or thanks to the classes, they’ll have an (at least theoretical) understanding of delivery. They help maintain focus, provide physical assistance in positioning and offer a friendly face in what might be an emotionally cold environment.

Mothers should consider carefully all their options. There’s no need to rule out modern medical technology. Being aware of the risks and benefits of anesthetic and some of the common potential problems can help you prepare. The more information you have, the better you can rationally examine options ahead of time. That helps you make better decisions at a time when you have other things on your mind. 

Just like a normal balanced diet, tenterhooks mothers should look out and watch out for foods with the most amounts of nutrients. Remember that your diet will determine how your future angel will be like primarily with the kind of food he/she eats.

Your pregnancy diet must be built around certain principles that include eating the right amount of foods, and right kind of foods like those rich mainly in vitamins and proteins.

The required number of calories is 300 for those expectant mothers who have a normal pregnancy weight. But for those who are overweight, fewer calories should be taken; and greater amounts of calories for those who are underweight.

But the bottom line is still to consult your medical practitioner to know the special needs of your pregnancy. Expectant mothers who are expecting twins need more calories because she needs more energy for the three of them. So you really have to know what pregnancy diet fits your specific condition. Regular checkup with your doctor is a great help to guarantee the hale and hearty condition of you and your baby.

We all know that proteins is an important building block of human cells because it contains amino acids that aid in rapid cell development of your soon-to-be baby.

The regular intake of three servings of proteins a day, which is about 75 grams, should be included in your pregnancy diet. Among your food choices can be cheese omelet for your breakfast, salmon salad ready for your lunch; and finally chicken breast for your last meal of the day.

If in case that you are one of those vegetarian women, you can try as alternative, legumes and grains; these are good sources of vegetable proteins.

You should not also forget your daily dose of Vitamin C; this vitamin can be stored into your body system and it will contribute to your baby growth and development, aside from the very fact that it also boosts the immune system of you and your future baby. Delightful food choices that contain Vitamin C include mangoes, strawberries, tomatoes, melon, bell peppers and asparagus.

You are pregnant as of the moment, and you are experiencing severe bleeding, abdominal pain, weakness, fever, back pains, and frequent vomiting.  Be cautious and seek for medical help now. You are showing signs of possible miscarriage pregnancy.

Losing a baby is definitely a traumatic experience for any woman. That is why it is very important that you take all necessary measures to avoid landing into this grave condition.

Spontaneous abortion is the medical term used to define miscarriage. Although, it does not refer to the illegal killing of a newborn infant; because in contrast with our commonly known abortion, miscarriage is not intentional; instead, it is a very unexpected and sad experience any expectant mother can go through.

A grueling statistics: 15% of pregnancies in the United States end in miscarriage. And more than 80% happens during the first trimester of a woman’s pregnancy; and 20% in the last 20 weeks, commonly refers as late miscarriages.

What is more difficult for a pregnant woman is that possible causes of miscarriage are not easy to predict.  However, there are common causes that women can use as their medical guide.

These are as follows:
• Abnormalities in the uterus
• Problems in the hormones
• Kidney disease disorder
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Malnutrition
• Thyroid disorder
• Kidney and heart disorder
• Immune system disorder

In addition, the intake of too much alcohol, caffeine and drugs also contribute to the chances of having a miscarriage. The age of a pregnant woman also plays a big role that may lead to this very difficult situation. Most recent studies show statistics of 12-15% risk of miscarriages pregnancy for women in their 20’s; while an increased risk of 20% to those in their 40’s.

Medical experts are giving emphasis that too much stress, strenuous physical activities and sexual intercourse during pregnancy can directly cause miscarriage. However, they advise pregnant women to have adequate rest to avoid any complications.

All pregnant women must be aware of the methods by which miscarriage can be diagnosed and treated accordingly. A pelvic exam and an ultrasound test can be done in order to diagnose possible early signs of miscarriage pregnancy.

As I have been saying from the start of this article, pregnancy is a very important stage in a woman’s life. That is why it’s very important, for a pregnant woman to take good care of her health; so that she will live a healthier and happier life together with her newborn angel.

There’s a wide variation among women in many aspects of the process. The length of time is different for everyone and from child to child. The amount of pain differs. And the post-birth consequences will vary for each individual person and baby. In 75% of women who carry to term, delivery is within 12 hours. Only 2% will be in labor for more than 24 hours.

During the active delivery phase contractions are frequent, though there are breaks in between. Here that training you spent so many hours to practice kicks in. Proper breathing technique differs between the resting phase and the contraction and pushing phase. Use both.

Drugs are an option but both mothers and physicians try to keep them to a minimum. Anything the mother receives still makes its way into the child. Pain medication crosses the placenta and can slow the baby’s heart rate and make breathing sluggish.

Analgesics are enough for most women, but they can produce side effects such as rapid heartbeat or nausea. A regional block may be appropriate for some women. This can offer pain relief without interfering with the ability to push, but it’s not for everyone. Hot pads, ice packs and a hand to hold can often substitute for the time needed to get through the toughest phases.

Develop a plan with your physician well in advance to cover all the possibilities.

Transition is the interval during which the cervix dilates the final two centimeters (about an inch). It produces the most intense and frequent contractions, but may last only a few minutes. Rarely is it longer than an hour. Here again, breathing techniques and a good partner are great aids to staying focused and minimizing pain.

Deep breaths are best for those resting periods, short and sharp ones for the period of active pushing. Shallow chest breathing is best for the most intense contractions. This helps keep the blood well oxygenated and the mother focused as well as possible on something other than the pain.

When the widest part of the baby’s head has moved into the birth canal, the second stage has begun in earnest. Contractions slow to four or five minutes apart. When the head is even with the lower pelvic bones, it’s said to be at ‘0′ station. It will progress through 1, 2, 3, and so on, measured by the baby’s exit.

The excitement rises as the baby becomes clearly visible. Tiring by this time is normal, but adrenaline helps keep most mothers at it during this final stage. Then, success!

Mild nausea is common, but any extreme condition may be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum. That can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Discuss the possibility with your physician so you can be tested, if needed. Late pregnancy nausea can occur as well, from twisted or obstructed bowels.

Eating small, frequent meals is preferable to larger ones three times per day. Certain fruits can help, such as berries, peaches and cantaloupe. Taking needed liquids between, rather than with, meals is helpful. That will produce less stomach expansion. Avoid carbonated drinks.

Heartburn is another common condition. As a result of hormonal and other changes, the odds of experiencing it are higher during pregnancy. Increased levels of progesterone are thought to be a prime culprit, since it causes loosening of the sphincter, driving acid up into the esophagus. It also slows the emptying of stomach contents, which can be a contributing factor.

Changes in nutrition can help alleviate the problem. Avoid high fat foods, chocolate (yes, that’s a tough one to give up) and fried foods. Foods high in raffinose, such as cabbage, broccoli and lettuce should be reduced as they tend to produce gas. Cutting down on caffeine and alcohol and quiting smoking are essential lifestyle changes, at least for the duration.

Common antacids, such as TUMS (also a good source of calcium) are a good idea. Not only is the material helpful, but sucking on them contracts the esophagus, which helps reduce the problem.

Constipation is a common problem, both during and immediately after pregnancy. Medically, constipation is defined as an inability to move the bowels more than three times per week. But most women will regard themselves as constipated if they can’t eliminate at least once per day.

The condition can occur from many causes, including psychological ones. If rectal tearing occurred during delivery as a result of straining, the rectum takes a while to heal. Women, many unconsciously, try to hold stool to avoid the pain of defecation. After a C-section the bowel can be temporarily paralyzed, a condition called an ‘ileus’.

Walking can help relieve symptoms, since it often eases tension and loosens the bowels. Drinking the right kinds and amounts of fluid will also help. Some vitamin and mineral supplements can be beneficial, such as extra, easily digested calcium. Commercial laxatives should be avoided, but there are special types that physicians sometimes prescribe, such as Docusate.

Eat right, engage in a regular, appropriate exercise program and your difficulties can be minimized.

False labor is one of the trickiest issues pregnant women have to deal with. Packing the car, rushing to the hospital, disrupting a mate at work and more are all normal parts of delivery. Not generating false alarms is going to be high on anyone’s wish list.

The first step is simply to accept an inescapable fact: no one can predict with certainty when labor begins (yet). A due date is nothing more than a best estimate. Those estimates have improved with the greater accuracy of early pregnancy tests, but they are still not 100% reliable.

Only about 5% of women who carry their babies to term actually deliver on the estimated date. Dates vary from a few days to a few weeks before or after. That doesn’t mean that delivering early is necessarily delivering prematurely. There is simply a natural variation in how long pregnancy lasts. Due dates are specified for the average, that’s all.

There are some signs to look for that labor has begun, however.

During a first pregnancy, babies will often move slightly into the birth canal two to three weeks before the onset of labor. An attentive mother can detect that movement. It may be easier to breathe, due to the shift away from the diaphragm. At the same time, pressure on the bladder may increase, leading to more frequent urination.

Past the first child, this movement may be less pronounced, and will tend to occur much later, sometimes only a few hours before labor begins.

Throughout pregnancy, it’s normal to experience contractions. The baby moves, your muscles react. Hormonal changes induce neural events that lead to contraction. These random events don’t indicate much. But as the third trimester advances, they can increase in frequency and intensity.

As they come more often and stronger, mothers report they experience heightened energy and may feel compelled to take on projects around the house. Working off some of that energy is a healthy thing, particularly since (as the day approaches) they often just ‘want it to be over’.

A small mucus plug that sealed the cervix during pregnancy can stretch and break apart, even before ‘water breaks’. This pinkish mucus is a normal discharge. Deep red fluid or blood should be investigated at once as a possible sign of tearing of the placenta from the uterus.

Now is the time to get prepared for the final stages.

Preparation well before the onset of labor is the first step. Lamaze or Bradley training is helpful, in order to learn good breathing and relaxation techniques. It’s difficult to focus on the process rather than the pain when you’re in the moment, but training can get her part way there. Attending with a partner is particularly helpful.

Some training involves learning focusing techniques – zeroing in on the need to push or the progress, rather than the discomfort. Others may emphasize distraction – counting, remembering a specific event clearly and so on. Those who have practiced yoga may find many of the ideas familiar. Several weeks practice before labor begins is a minimum, but there should be no substantial gap in time. Train up to the day.

Physical comfort can be enhanced by a variety of methods. Hot or cold packs can ease cramping. Sipping warm tea or ice water is sometimes helpful. That will need to be kept to a minimum, though. If general anesthesia has to be given, doctors will require minimal liquid intake beforehand. Anesthesia can produce nausea and vomiting. Disgorging under anesthetic is potentially dangerous, since it can lead to choking.

Some hospitals will use tubs of water or even showers to maximize physical and mental comfort during labor. A good soak can ease back tension and aid a sense of well being. Techniques like these don’t require any training or practice, just the ability to remember to use them when needed. A partner can help here, too.

Adjust your body as needed during the process. Talk over with your physician in advance his or her working needs and your options. Working together during the process is less stressful if things have been talked out ahead of time.

Still, there are women who experience great pain during birth, and it can vary from one delivery to the next. For those women, a range of medical options are available.

A general pain medication can range from over-the-counter remedies to mild narcotics. It’s important to be able to focus and participate during the process, so doctors keep the dosage to a minimum whenever possible. Stronger narcotics to ease pain can be used if necessary.

Local anesthetic is no longer an automatic choice. Studies revolving around the neurological effects on the baby have made doctors and mothers very conservative. But the types and dosages used very rarely present a problem. There’s no such thing as zero risk, but the odds are so low that this is a valid option.

A regional block, epidural or spinal, refers not to specific medication but simply the way it’s administered. The drug is injected into a space at the base of the spinal column. The purpose is the same: to numb pain in the vaginal and back areas where the pain is most intense. Here again, doctors are cautious but the option is still used safely in thousands of cases every year.

Explore your options well in advance so that on that golden day you can put your mind where it needs to be: delivering a healthy baby.

Test results typically arrive in a week or two and the test is sometimes referred to as an AFT (Amniotic Fluid Test).

Typically done around 15-20 weeks, an ‘amnio’ can examine possible genetic abnormalities, check for uterine infections, Rh (rhesus) sensitization and other possible problems. But it can be used as a general health check as well.

Only a small amount of fluid is withdrawn and is generally preceded by an ultrasound test. The fluid contains sloughed off skin and other cells from the developing fetus and these form the basis for part of the test.

Down syndrome is a rare condition, but amniotic fluid contains markers that can assist physicians in determining the odds that your child is affected. The test is about 99% accurate for Down’s and is usually combined with an ultrasound and other tests.

Other genetic disorders – such as sickle cell anemia, Huntington’s, Tay-Sachs or cystic fibrosis can all be diagnosed while the child is still in the womb. Only a small percentage of babies are afflicted with any of these conditions, but most women will want to perform this basic check.

Spina bifida is a neural condition that can lead to crippling and amniocentesis can test for this as well, along with other neural tube defects. Even among high risk women, the odds are less than 5% that a problem will be discovered. Still, some women choose to terminate a pregnancy if the condition is discovered.

As a side benefit of the genetic screening it’s possible to determine the baby’s sex, though ultrasound is the more common method now.

No single test is definitive, so women may want to consider multiple tests. Women 35 years or older are at higher risk of producing infants with some of the disorders discussed above. Combining amniocentesis with ultrasound or multiple marker tests can bring peace of mind.

Along with that peace of mind getting tested has other benefits. Certain in utero deficiencies can be treated to resolve problems before they become a major issue.

The test does have some minor risks of its own, however, and this should be borne in mind. Miscarriages can be induced by amniocentesis, for example. Great care is taken to ensure that the needle doesn’t puncture the baby. But, there is a small chance (about 1 in 1000) that the test will produce an uterine infection.

Few women experience any pain from the procedure, with about 1% having spotting or fluid leaking after the test. Avoiding stresses such as lifting or prolonged standing after the procedure can reduce the odds of any problems.

There are many factors involved in making the difficult decision between vaginal and Caesarean delivery.

The level of pain experienced isn’t simply a matter of being ‘tough’ or committed to ‘natural’ childbirth. It can have an effect on the baby’s well-being, too. Being in labor for hours on end, enduring painful contractions, carries risks. Stress produces hormones that the baby is exposed to, along with the mother. Contractions can produce harmful effects on the child and mother. Rectal tearing, in which the mother tears rectal tissue from straining, is a potential problem.

Vaginal childbirth carries other risks. Breech birth, wrapped umbilical cords and other conditions – while relatively less common – do occur. Breech, in which the baby’s butt is toward the vaginal opening rather than its head, isn’t the only other possible position. Intermediate positions happen as well. Tangled umbilical cords can strangle the newborn or cut off oxygen. Forceps deliveries and other techniques are sometimes required in such cases.

In some cases, the baby’s head may be so large as to produce vaginal tearing, which extends recovery time. Or it may become lodged in the opening for extended periods, presenting a risk to the baby’s life and the mother’s well-being. Drugs may be needed to induce vaginal relaxation.

But Caesarean sections come with their own set of risks.

Cutting through the abdominal wall, along with the pelvic muscles and uterus constitutes major surgery. Though the procedure is less painful than vaginal birth, the recovery can be extended, especially since anesthesia is required in this case. A (usually subtle) scar is always produced, which some women may find unattractive or undesirable.

Any drugs used during delivery are taken up by the baby, since it shares fluid with the mother until after birth. Anesthesia, in rare cases, has caused neurological problems for newborns. These can be long lasting.

Almost all deliveries – both vaginal and Caesarean – occur without incident, producing a healthy child. There are rarely long-term negative impacts on mother or baby. But knowing the pros and cons of both methods can help expectant women make an informed choice.

Unfortunately, ‘imminent’ doesn’t mean ‘will occur within 10.5 hours’ or any exact amount of time. The time to the beginning of regular contractions and actual delivery, can vary enormously from woman to woman and even child to child.

Nevertheless, when you feel that trickle or gush of colorless fluid flow down your leg, it’s time to get ready. On average, labor will begin within 12 to 24 hours later. For some, the time is much sooner.

Note the time, wipe away the fluid and clean the vagina to minimize the risk of infection. Don’t bathe. Look for any green or brownish fluid, the meconium, which is from your baby’s bowel movement. That’s an indicator of fetal stress and should be reported to your physician immediately.

Contractions will follow shortly.

The uterus is a muscle and one of its roles is to force the baby out into the world through the birth canal. The contractions you feel are that muscle tensing. They will usually be preceded by dull cramps in the lower back or pelvis. When they happen regularly for an hour, lasting at least 30 seconds each, gaining in intensity, actual labor has started.

Since they can vary from woman to woman, try to verify that the contractions are labor by varying your position. Move around and sit. See if they still occur. Remember to keep a close eye on the clock or your watch. Timing the events is important.

First pregnancies will often take a little longer, so try to avoid any sense of panic. When contractions are coming five minutes apart for an hour, it’s time to head to the hospital. Err on the side of caution, though. The number is just an average and it’s best to avoid complications by being too early, rather than too late.

Severe pain, rather than regular (even if uncomfortable) contractions can be a sign of placenta previa. This is a condition in which the placenta can block the exit from the uterus. Or, the pain can be the result of placental abruption, where the placenta separates but limits the baby’s oxygen supply. Call your doctor.

Almost all labors proceed without incident. Stay calm, execute your plan and get ready for a healthy baby.

Severe pelvic or abdominal pain goes beyond what might accompany gastrointestinal upset. In the early months of pregnancy, it may be a sign of a tubal pregnancy. A ‘tubal’ is a condition in which the fertilized ovum attaches to the fallopian tube rather than further down, in the uterus. Later on, it may signal that the placenta has separated from the uterus.

If you experience this kind of pain, seek attention right away. Only a medical professional can provide the diagnostic experience and tools to get an objective answer. They won’t always know with certainty, but your odds are better with them. Don’t rely on ‘old wives tales’.

Mild fever can occur in pregnancy as it can at any other time. But if the fever rises above 100F (37.8C) it’s time to seek attention. Infection or viral illness can cause premature labor and a high fever can put your baby at risk. Don’t panic, just get yourself on the phone and discuss the situation with your physician.

Severe headache, swollen eyes or face or blurred vision can be an indicator of toxemia. This occurs when toxic substances are present in the blood stream. Apart from the discomfort, they may well be relatively harmless. The condition may be due to eclampsia, the result of hypertension. The only way to tell is to be tested. Other symptoms include flashing lights in front of the eyes and sharp pains under the rib cage.

After about four to five months, movement from the developing fetus should be common, occurring a few times every hour. Mothers are readily aware of these movements. Any substantial reduction in frequency or persistent lack of movement should be discussed with your doctor. Fetal distress is one possibility, but a correct diagnosis can only be supplied by a professional.

Any kind of vaginal discharge or bleeding should be checked right away, especially if it occurs more than two weeks prior to the due date. After that time, fluid leak may be a sign that your ‘water has broken’, but have it checked anyway. Any sign of bleeding suggests the possibility that the sac has separated from the uterus. This should be dealt with immediately.

Don’t worry about being overly cautious where your and your growing baby’s health is concerned. Most issues can be addressed with no long lasting effects if dealt with early.

Today, ultrasound is clear, simple, and (as medical tests go) relatively inexpensive. Most are covered by standard insurance plans that cover pregnancy.

Also called sonography or just ‘a scan’, the woman’s abdominal area is exposed to harmless ultra-high frequency sound waves. The echoes are then recorded and interpreted by a computer program – then projected onto a screen. The basic principle is similar to that used in fishing boats, submarines and other applications.

Unlike X-rays they produce no ionizing radiation, though the sound waves still carry energy. Nevertheless, the procedure is safe and painless. It has the added advantage that it can examine soft tissues that don’t show up as clearly in x-rays, and the images are displayed in real-time. Since there are no ill-effects produced by the test, it can be repeated as often as desired as the fetus develops.

The technician (often your physician) uses a small, hand-held wand that travels over the surface of the skin. A clear gel is applied to the skin beforehand to eliminate air between the wand and the surface, producing improved results. Unlike amniocentesis and other tests, it’s non-invasive and the preliminary results are available immediately. It takes no more than half an hour.

More extensive analysis of the results can be performed by a trained specialist, if desired. A report is typically sent to your physician. From the results, doctors can detect physical abnormalities, tissue rupture, bleeding or simply whether problem implantation has occurred.

But apart from detecting potential problems, the test is used to provide useful information. It can reveal sex and age and record at the development process. It can also show the physical location of the baby within the womb. That helps determine if a breech birth is likely and other potential positioning issues. With that advanced look, delivery can be better planned.

The procedure has limitations, however. Ultrasound waves, unlike regular sound waves, don’t travel as efficiently through air. As a result, any areas where air pockets exist – such as the stomach itself – won’t yield as much information. Also, they don’t penetrate bone as well as x-rays and the waves are dampened as they pass through fatty tissue. The results may be less useful for obese women.

Those limitations can be overcome by supplementing ultrasound with other tests, such as amniocentesis and others that use chemical indicators to give useful data about the baby’s health.

Sometimes a general malaise sets in. Regular, appropriate exercise can help relieve much of that and help put your body in the best shape possible for labor. That optimizes your comfort and your growing baby’s health.

The first step is to adopt a kind of Hippocratic Oath of Pregnancy: First, Do No Harm. That ancient principle from the Greeks is still valid, more so during pregnancy. Some women are used to running five miles, doing every station at the weight machine or performing Pilates an hour a day. That will have to change fairly quickly.

But maintaining a good exercise regimen is still possible, just change your workout to fit your changing body. Eliminate crunches or any other form of exercise that stresses the abdominals or back. Go with lighter weights. Avoid jerky movements and forego squats which can separate the placenta from the uterus.

Breathing properly during exercises performed while pregnant is essential. Correct breathing technique anytime is important, but you’re now breathing for two. The baby receives oxygen through the umbilical and keeping the blood fully oxygenated is imperative.

Keep in mind that your resting heartbeat will increase by about 8 beats per minute during the first few weeks. Blood volume increases substantially as you progress. Factor that in when you consider any cardio exercise.

Hydrate at an appropriate amount throughout the day. That means small sips over a longer time frame, rather than large intake at a given time. Eating should follow the same pattern – four to five small meals per day is preferable to three larger ones.

Before beginning a workout, warm up gently. Perform easy stretches and be prepared to rest often for a few minutes at a time. Light cardio is the key to a healthy circulatory system, so important during these months.

Pregnancy shifts your center of gravity forward, stressing the spine and back muscles. To ease that aching back, swimming is one of the best forms of exercises. It also gives a very low stress but active cardio workout.

Yoga is a favorite for many. It helps achieve peace of mind and provides gentle movements that provide the needed stretching, while building good leg and arm strength. It gives also low impact on the back.

With a good program, you’ll reduce cramps, improve circulation and increase energy. You’ll lower your resting heart rate and keep fit.

If you feel any dizziness, swelling or experience any kind of vaginal bleeding or discharge discontinue at once and consult a medical professional.

Before beginning any exercise regimen it’s vital that you talk with your physician. It’s great to get more than one opinion, but your OB/GYN (obstetrician/gynecologist) can help you devise a program that is great for you and your baby.

Some of those calories should come from protein, about 60 grams total per day or about 10 grams per day more than non-pregnant women. Fish, chicken and lean meats are a good source, as are dried beans, nuts and cheese. About 1 1/2 ounces of meat contains 10 grams of protein.

A woman’s calcium requirement goes up during pregnancy, as well. Non-pregnant women get only about 75% of the recommended amount anyway, so increasing it is a good idea for all. Milk, yogurt and cheese are common and healthy sources. Non-fat types can help keep caloric intake under control while still providing the needed calcium amount. Green leafy vegetables are another healthy way to get what you need.

Vitamin and mineral consumption should increase during pregnancy, but within moderation.

Vitamin D helps absorb calcium, so a daily supplement can be a good idea. As the blood volume increases with the advance of pregnancy, additional iron is needed. The daily recommended amount of iron doubles for pregnant women from 15 mg/day to 30 mg/day.

Red meat is a good source of iron, though fish and poultry are too. Many enriched cereals supply extra iron (and other needed vitamins), as do some breads. Eggs are good for a number of reasons, but they are not the best sources for iron. Increasing Vitamin C intake helps improve their efficiency.

Folic acid helps fetal development, but the amounts for pregnant women have sometimes been overstated. Some research suggests that excessive amounts can increase the risk of spina bifida and other neural defects. A regular, daily multivitamin with 600 micrograms per pill is recommended, about 200 micrograms more than the normal daily amount. Dark green leafy vegetables are a good source of natural folates, as are citrus fruits, peanuts and whole grains.

Vegetarian diets can supply all the needed nutrients, but obtaining them in the right form can be more difficult. Vegetarians will need to more closely monitor nutrient levels, but this is commonly a part of a vegetarian lifestyle already.

Naturally, any pregnant woman should consult her physician early on about dietary changes. He or she will need an accurate estimate of current diet and can supply science-based advice about proper nutrition. There are more myths and junk science surrounding diet than any other area. Get objective information for your health and that of your growing baby.