WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

During the 40 weeks of pregnancy, as your baby is growing inside the uterus (womb), there are many things you can do to ensure good health for both you and the baby.

Signs/Symptoms

As the baby grows, your body will go through many changes.

• You may have nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy.
• Your breasts will get larger and can make you uncomfortable.
• Red marks called stretch marks may show up on your skin.
• You may have back and leg aches from the weight of the growing baby.
• You may have mood changes going from joy to mild depression. These changes are normal; but talk to your doctor if you are depressed all the time.

Care

Pregnancy is a time to ""listen'' to your body. You can probably tell what you should and shouldn't do by the way you feel. For example, if you are tired, rest. If you are nauseated, eat a few soda crackers.

Prenatal Care

Getting good prenatal care is very important. It helps prevent problems during pregnancy and childbirth. You will probably have a pelvic exam (also called an ""internal'') during your first visit. Your doctor will check the size and shape of your uterus. A Pap smear to check for cancer of the cervix (the opening of the uterus) also may be done on the first visit, along with blood and urine tests. Your doctor will want to see you monthly during most of your pregnancy. During the last 8 weeks, your visits will be more frequent. At each visit, you will be weighed and have your blood pressure checked. Your urine will be tested and the baby's growth will be checked. At some visits you may get an ultrasound, a painless test that shows the baby's growth and helps determine the due date. You may also need additional blood tests during the pregnancy. see more