|
Your body will begin to undergo an amazing series of changes over the next nine
months. During the first month, your period will cease, or you will experience
light spotting as the embryo implants itself in your uterus. Morning sickness,
which can happen any time throughout the day, can begin (usually between two to
six weeks of gestation). Your breasts become slightly fuller and tender, and you
urinate more frequently because your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder.
You may also experience fatigue.
Don’t be surprised if your emotions start to swing. You may feel joy or elation,
or become weepy, fearful and irritable. These feelings are normal.
|
|
For the first eight weeks, your baby is an embryo, which resembles a tadpole. By the
end of the first month, the embryo is about half-an-inch long and weighs less than
one ounce. During the first month, all major organs and systems begin to form. The
neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord, begins to form. The digestive
system and the heart and circulatory systems also begin to form. Tiny limb buds appear,
which will develop into arms and legs. The ears and eyes are also beginning to develop.
By the end of the first month, the heart begins to beat.
|
|
Prenatal care involves a series of regular examinations and tests by your physician.
In an uncomplicated pregnancy, most women will see their physician monthly, until the
32nd week of pregnancy. Then, you will be seen every two weeks. In the final month of
pregnancy, you will be seen every week.
Your first prenatal visit will be the most thorough. A complete medical history is
taken, including previous surgeries, as well as any current medications (prescription
and over-the-counter). Other topics covered include maternal and paternal family
medical history, personal gynecological and obstetrical history, a review of diet
and lifestyle, and a complete physical exam, including a pelvic exam.
Routine blood tests will be ordered to identify your blood type, Rh factor, whether
you’re deficient in iron, immune to German measles (rubella) or have a sexually
transmitted disease such as syphilis or herpes. A urinalysis is performed to check
for the presence of bacteria, protein and sugar.
Another important part of your first prenatal visit is to determine your estimated due
date, which is determined by the date of your last period, your menstrual history and
your vaginal examination. You will also receive education regarding important topics
such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, and the avoidance of alcohol, drugs and
tobacco.
|
|
During the first month, it’s important to make your first doctor appointment.
You should also make sure you start taking 0.4 milligrams or 400 micrograms of folic
acid daily. Folic acid has been shown to dramatically reduce the chances of neural
tube defects, such as spina bifida. Now’s the time to also clarify your childbirth
coverage with your health insurance company, to make sure you understand the restrictions
and pre-authorization requirements.
|
