The birth of a child is one of the most intense experiences in life, and the nine months of pregnancy are an exciting time for many couples. From conception to birth, a woman's body goes through a series of significant changes.
Signs of pregnancy
If you suspect you are pregnant, it is normal to want to know as soon as possible. Although there are some common signs that indicate the presence of a pregnancy, these can vary from woman to woman and from pregnancy to pregnancy, or they may be related to something else.
Some of the most common signs of pregnancy:
- delayed period
- morning sickness
- sore breasts
- frequent urination
- fatigue
- emotional changes
- aversion or strong desire for certain foods
It is important to contact your doctor as soon as a pregnancy is confirmed so that you can be given initial instructions over the phone.
The first visit
At the first visit, a complete personal and family medical history will be taken, the follow-up plan will be described to you, and you will receive information about the lifestyle you should follow, the nutritional supplements you will need, as well as habits that should be avoided.
Your weight and height will be measured, as well as your body mass index (BMI) calculated. A transvaginal ultrasound will be performed to assess the gestational age, the number of fetuses (e.g. twin pregnancy) and the presence or absence of fetal heart function, if the ultrasound findings allow it.
You will then be given a list of prenatal screening tests, blood and urine tests.
At the end of the first visit you will have a good idea of the pregnancy monitoring plan and what it includes.
The next visit will depend on how advanced the pregnancy is and how close you are to 11-14 weeks of pregnancy, the period when the nuchal translucency ultrasound is performed.
At our Gynecological - Obstetrics Clinic, we cover all aspects of obstetrics, from before conception and before birth (prenatal) to birth and postpartum.
Frequently asked questions about pregnancy
What is the placenta?
It is the organ through which the fetus is nourished. It provides the fetus with oxygen and nutrients, which it draws from the mother's blood, and removes waste products from the fetus, namely carbon dioxide and other waste substances.
What is an umbilical cord?
It is the vascular stalk that connects the placenta to the fetus. It consists of one vein and two arteries. Uteroplacental circulation and nutrition of the fetus occur within these vessels.
What is amniotic fluid?
This is the fluid in which the fetus is located throughout the pregnancy and until birth. Production begins from the 3rd - 4th week of pregnancy. Amniotic fluid serves to protect and nourish the fetus as well as to aid in the development of labor. By examining the amniotic fluid (amniocentesis) at the beginning of pregnancy, it is possible to check for various pathological conditions (chromosomal defects) of the fetus.
What should I watch out for?
Although many things are considered unsafe during pregnancy, a pregnant woman should try not to spend so much time worrying. Above all, make sure to follow the safest habits for pregnancy, such as proper nutrition and adequate rest. Usually, these are enough to ensure the health of both you and your baby.
If you need a more in-depth and clear opinion on the subject of pregnancy, the best thing for your health is to consult an Obstetrician-Gynecologist.