“How Do I Know If I Am Carrying Twins During Pregnancy?”

How Do I Know If I Am Carrying Twins During Pregnancy?

During each of my pregnancies I wondered at some point or another whether I might be carrying twins. This often happened after people told me how “large” I looked for my due dates. I also have a family history of twins and triplets, on my moms and my dads side.

Despite this I successfully carried three babies to term without carrying twins or more. Of course, were I to have more children this may change. For some the prospect of carrying twins is exciting and mysterious. For others it is filled with mystery and anxiety. Read more

“What is Toxoplasmosis and How Can It Affect My Baby?”

Is Toxoplasmosis During Pregnancy Dangerous?

During my first pregnancy we had a large, furry cat in the house. I had often heard having a cat during pregnancy was dangerous. My fears surmounted me when one day I was vacuuming up some droppings and my vacuum literally exploded. I was certain I had inhaled enough toxic substances to permanently harm my unborn baby.

Fortunately many of my fears were instantly relieved with a quick phone call to my doctor. Most women will not develop new toxoplasmosis infections during pregnancy. Of course, there is always a small risk, so it is important you take steps to educate and protect yourself from this potentially dangerous infection. Read more

“How Do I Minimize Stretch Marks During Pregnancy?”

How Do I Minimize Stretch Marks During Pregnancy?

Do you fear stretch marks? Stretch marks are one of pregnancies long lasting side effects. While temporary side effects including morning sickness and bloating often fade in the weeks following labor and delivery, some side effects of pregnancy, including stretch marks remain for months and years following the birth of your baby.

While some women consider stretch marks with much fear and loathing, others wear their stretch marks as a triumphant reminder of their pregnancies. Whether you welcome the thought of stretch marks or dread them, keep in mind stretch marks are a common side effect of pregnancy. Read more

“Is It Ok To Smoke During Pregnancy?”

Is It Ok To Smoke During Pregnancy?

Risks of Smoking During Pregnancy
Smoking is harmful not only to you but also to your unborn fetus. Smoking during pregnancy is much more likely to result in a stillborn baby. Smoking also increases a woman’s risk of miscarriage during pregnancy and the risk a woman may deliver a low birth-weight baby.

Some babies born to mothers who smoke are also at increased risk for a condition called Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS, where babies die unexpectedly at night during their sleep. Babies born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy are twice as likely to succumb to SIDS as those born to mothers who do not smoke during pregnancy.

Cigarette smoking also increases an expectant mothers risk of various complications during pregnancy. These include:

•  Premature rupture of the membranes, which can lead to preterm labor or infection of the uterus.
•  Placental detachment of abruption, which is a life threatening condition for mother and baby.
•  Increased risk for vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.
•  Increased risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy associated with inadequate absorption of folic acid and vitamins B and C during pregnancy. Read more

“What Are Common Sleep Problems During Pregnancy?”

What Are Common Sleep Problems During Pregnancy?

Ask any pregnant woman what her biggest problem is during pregnancy, and probably four times out of five you’ll find sleep problems among the top five complaints.

Sleep problems are common during pregnancy. During early pregnancy many women have trouble sleeping because their minds are racing with activity and excitement about their new discovery. Early hormone fluctuations can also lead to difficulty sleeping. Still other problems including those associated with a frequent need to urinate are common during early pregnancy, and may contribute to sleep problems during pregnancy. Read more

“What Are Normal Skin and Hair Changes During Pregnancy?”

What Are Normal Skin and Hair Changes During Pregnancy?

When it comes to hair and skin changes during pregnancy, there is no “normal.” Women will undergo various changes throughout their pregnancy, some delightful and some that are very unexpected.

You’ve all heard of the pregnancy “glow.” Many associate the pregnancy glow with improved circulation often resulting during pregnancy. This may lead to slight flushing of the cheeks, contributing to the appearance of a healthy pregnancy “glow.”

Still others may realize the wrinkles or fine lines in their face seem to disappear during their second and third trimester. This is certainly a perk of pregnancy often occurring from increased fluid retention and swelling of the skin’s tissues and membranes. Read more

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