Pregnancy Tips From Women’s HealthFirst

Low Vitamin D Levels In Pregnancy Linked To Language Problems In Children

Thursday, April 12th, 2012

A new study published in the journal Pediatrics finds that women with low levels of vitamin D in their blood during pregnancy increase their odds of having a child with language problems.

Of the 743 pregnant women who participated in the study, those with the lowest amounts of vitamin D in their blood during their second trimester of pregnancy (18th week) were nearly twice as likely to have a child with language difficulties compared to women with the highest levels of the vitamin.

These findings held true even when researchers took into account other factors that could have influenced the results, such as the mother's age during pregnancy, whether she smoked, as well as family income and medical history.

While researchers did not find a link between vitamin D levels and a child's emotional or behavioral development, reduced levels of vitamin D were connected to language learning problems when a child reaches school age.

Scientists suspect that having solid levels of vitamin D, also known as the "sunshine vitamin," in the mother's blood while pregnant -- especially during the second and third trimesters -- is critical since this is when certain parts of the fetal brain involved in language-learning develop.

Concluding that "maternal vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of developmental language difficulties among their children," researchers recommend women get the essential vitamin from foods such as salmon, milk, eggs, beef liver, and cheese, or through exposure to sunlight, although this may be a less reliable source for women who limit sun exposure and use sunscreen.

[image via BabyHold]

Flu Shots During Pregnancy May Be Beneficial To Babies

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2012

According to a new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), vaccinating pregnant women against the influenza virus appears to have a significant positive effect on birth weight in babies.

The study, part of the Mother'sGift project on the safety and effectiveness of pneumococcal and influenza vaccines in pregnant women, examined 340 healthy pregnant mothers in the third trimester in Bangladesh. The participants were divided into two groups, with 170 women receiving the influenza vaccine and the remaining 170 receiving pneumococcal vaccine as a control.

Researchers then compared the weight of babies born in two periods, one in which there was circulation of an influenza virus and one with limited circulation.

According to the researchers, when influenza viruses were circulating, vaccination of pregnant women against flu was associated with healthier babies, with women vaccinated in the third trimester less likely to have babies who were small for gestational age than those who received a pneumococcal vaccine (25.9% to 44.8% ).

Also, babies born to mothers who received the flu vaccine had a higher average birth weight (3,178 versus 2,978 grams), as well as a lower rate of respiratory illness.

"We found that immunization against influenza during pregnancy had a substantial effect on mean birth weight and the proportion of infants who were small for gestational age," writes Dr. Mark Steinhoff of Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and co-author of the study. "Our data suggest that the prevention of infection with seasonal influenza in pregnant women by vaccination can influence fetal growth."

The researchers urge additional studies to support their findings, suggesting that adding an influenza vaccine to routine vaccination programs during pregnancy could help children have a better start in life.

"If our data ... are confirmed, the existence of effective antenatal immunization delivery systems suggests influenza vaccine may be a feasible addition to routine antenatal immunization programs."

I guess you could call that a shot worth taking.

Of course, if you have questions, please do not hesitate to discuss this with your Women's HealthFirst physician.

[image via Medical News Today]

New Study Finds C-Section Delivery Not Always Best For Small Babies

Monday, February 13th, 2012

Contrary to coventional wisdom, Cesarean sections are no safer than vaginal delivery for infants who are born early or who are small for their age, according to a new study by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine. In fact, C-sections might actually lead to a greater risk of respiratory problems and other complications in these infants, causing doctors to re-think how they look at the procedure.

“You shouldn’t assume there’s no downside to the baby with a C-section,” said Dr. Erika Werner, lead author of the study and assistant professor of gynecology and obstetrics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

The results of the study are particularly important, as Cesarean deliveries become more and more common, with C-section rates rising 33 percent from 2000 to 2007, with women under the age of 25 experiencing the greatest increase at 57 percent.

The most recent data – from 2009 – show that 45.6 percent of premature babies were delivered by Cesarean section, as compared to 35.1 percent of those born at 37-38 weeks.

Part of the explanation for the especially high rate among preemies likely lies in the assumption that vaginal births is too traumatic – and dangerous - for fragile infants who are underweight and preterm, said Dr. Diane Ashton, deputy director of the March of Dimes.

But according to the study, babies born vaginally were no more likely to have developed subdural hemorrhages, seizures, or sepsis than those delivered by C-section. Instead, the researchers found that babies born by C-section were 30 percent more likely to develop respiratory distress syndrome, which may have long term fallout for the babies.

“The breathing problems can turn into asthma later in life,” Dr. Nancy Snyderman, NBC’s chief medical editor explained. “In the last few weeks of pregnancy, that’s when the lungs and the brain are developing. So developmental problems, cerebral palsy, learning disability – all those things become compounded if a baby is taken out prematurely.”

While C-section deliveries may be necessary in certain situations, like if the baby is in distress or the heart rate is dropping, vaginal delivery is preferable in cases where there is no imminent danger to the baby or the mom.

Dr. James Ducey, director of maternal-fetal medicine at Staten Island University Hospital, agrees.

"You shouldn't have a C-section unless there is a good reason," he says. "Being small, in and of itself, is not a reason to do a C-section. It is more risky for mom and there is no benefit for baby, so why should we do it?"

“When you start to look at 37 maybe 38 weeks, there’s an increased belief now that the longer a baby stays in the womb, up to 40 weeks, the better the outcome is for the baby,” Dr. Snyderman adds.

Synderman is quick to caution against the mistaken belief that Cesarean sections are an easier, less painful alternative to vaginal birth.

”They say ‘I don’t want the pain, please let me just do a C-section. You have to remember the ultimate outcome should be a healthy baby.”

Now that's something everyone can agree on.

[image via istockphoto]

Pregnancy Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Friday, January 20th, 2012

Carrying a child to term is a wonderful experience, but it can also be a nerve-wracking one. How do you know whether that sudden ache is normal or something that warrants a late night call to your Women's HealthFirst doctor?

While some symptoms may be more or less urgent depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, in addition to your personal health background, here is a rundown of symptoms that should sound your warning bells. Remember that even if you don't see your symptom on the list, it is always better to err on the side of caution and contact your Women's HealthFirst practioner rather than agonizing for hours and waiting until the symptoms persist or get worse before taking action.

• Your baby is moving or kicking less than usual (once he begins moving regularly, typically around 16-22 weeks). Ask your doctor whether you should monitor your baby's activity by doing daily "kick counts." One common approach is to choose a time of day when your baby tends to be active. (Try to do the counts at roughly the same time each day.) Sit quietly or lie on your side so you won't get distracted. Time how long it takes for you to feel ten distinct movements – kicks, punches, and whole body movements all count. If you don't feel ten movements in two hours, stop counting and call your doctor.
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain or tenderness.
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting.
• An increase in vaginal discharge or a change in the type of discharge – if it becomes watery, mucousy, or bloody. Note: After 37 weeks, an increase in mucus discharge is normal and may indicate that you'll be going into labor soon.
• Pelvic pressure (a feeling that your baby is pushing down), pain in your lower back (if it's a new problem for you), menstrual-like cramping or abdominal pain, or more than six contractions in an hour before 37 weeks.
• Painful or burning urination, or little or no urination.
• Severe or persistent vomiting, or any vomiting accompanied by pain or fever.
• Chills or fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
• Visual disturbances such as double vision, blurring, dimming, flashing lights, or spots in your field of vision.
• Any persistent or severe headache accompanied by blurred vision, slurred speech, or numbness.
• Any swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, anything more than a little swelling in your hands, severe and sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, or a rapid weight gain (more than 4 pounds in a week).
• A persistent or severe leg cramp or calf pain that doesn't ease up, or one leg significantly more swollen than the other.
• Trauma to the abdomen.
• Fainting, frequent dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, or heart palpitations.
• Difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, or chest pain.
• Severe constipation accompanied by abdominal pain or more than 24 hours of severe diarrhea.
• Persistent intense itching of your torso, arms, legs, palms, or soles, or a feeling of itchiness all over your body.
• Any other health problem that you'd ordinarily call your practitioner about, even if it's not related to your pregnancy (like a cold that gets worse rather than better).

When it comes to your health and the health of your baby, remember the old adage "better safe than sorry." Because your body is changing so quickly, it may be hard to know whether what you're experiencing is normal or is a sign of something more serious, so err on the side of caution, trust your instincts, and call your Women's HealthFirst doctor if you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms.

If there's a problem, you'll get help right away. If nothing's wrong, you'll be reassured. After all, isn't that what doctors are for?

[image via BabyCenter.com]

Seeing Double: CDC Report Says Older Mothers, Fertility Treatments Causing Surge In Twins

Thursday, January 12th, 2012

If it seems as though there are more and more twins being born, it's not because you're seeing double, it's because there are.

The number of twins born in the U.S. has skyrocketed over the last three decades, a result of test-tube babies and women waiting to have children until their 30s when the chances of twins increase, a new Centers of Disease Control and Prevention study finds.

According to the report, in 2009, 1 in every 30 babies born in the U.S. was a twin, a marked increase over the 1 in 53 rate in 1980.

“When people say it seems like you see more twins nowadays, they’re right,” said epidemiologist and CDC report co-author Joyce Martin.

“You have a double whammy going on. There are more older moms and more widespread use of fertility-enhancing therapies,” Martin said.

According to the report, from 1980 through 2004, the twin birth rate rose by more than an average of 2 percent a year before leveling off to less than 1 percent annunally. In 2009, twin rates again increased in all 50 states, with the jumps highest in New England, New Jersey, and Hawaii. In Connecticut, twins now account for nearly 5 percent of births.

By 2009, 3.3 percent of all births were twins, up from 2 percent in 1980.

While black moms have historically birthed twins most often, white moms have almost caught up. Over the last three decades, rates doubled for whites, rose by half for blacks and by roughly a third for Hispanics.

The greatest increase in twin rates was for women 40 and older, who are more likely to use fertility treatments and have two embryos implanted during in vitro fertilization, as opposed to younger women who are more likely to just get one.

About 7 percent of all births for women 40 and older were twins, whereas 5 percent of women in their late 30s and 2 percent of women age 24 or younger gave birth to twins.

In addition to the impact of fertility treatments, women in their late 30s are more likely to produce multiple eggs in a cycle, further increasing their chances of twins.

The question then becomes, are more twins good news?

“It’s really important to note that outcome for twins is much less positive than for singleton pregnancies,” Martin said. “Twins tend to be born earlier and smaller...Their mothers are more likely to require hospitalization. And the twins themselves are more likely than singletons to require hospitalization."

But, Martin added, “although they are at greater risk overall, most twin births do very well.”

Hopefully, the same holds true for their mothers, who not only have one, but two newborn babies to care for.

Despite the challenges, one such mother had some helpful advice for other moms of twins: "Don’t think about it as double trouble. It’s still a double blessing."

[image via Pregnancy.com]

Fitness For Two: Best Exercises During Pregnancy

Wednesday, January 4th, 2012

Just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you need to forfeit your active lifestyle. In fact, regular, moderate physical activity during pregnancy can increase energy, stamina, and help prepare your body for labor. Research shows that healthy women who exercise during pregnancy have less risk of preterm delivery, are less likely to need pain relief, and are able to recover from childbirth faster. The benefits extend to the baby as well. Babies of active moms tend to have a healthier birth weight, lower heart rates, and less complications than babies whose mothers are sedentary.

The right exercises can help ease common pregnancy complaints like back pain, body aches, and sleep troubles, in addition to boosting energy and stamina. The key is to choose the right exercises to keep you fit, comfortable, and help maintain a healthy weight for you and your baby. Your physicians at Women's HealthFirst will be happy to discuss this with you and answer any questions you have. 

Swimming
Swimming is one of the best exercises for pregnant women because it is gentle on your joints, muscles, and can provide relief to swollen appendages like ankles and feet. Plus, you'll feel light in the water even with your belly the size of a beach ball.

Yoga
Yoga is a great way to strengthen core muscles, ease back pain, and help you breathe and relax, which research shows may make labor shorter and more comfortable. Avoid "hot yoga", Bikram, and lying on your back after the first trimester. Instead, opt for a prenatal class, which is gentler on the body and focuses on relaxation, a good prep for labor.

Stationary Bike
Cycling is a great way to stay in shape and take a (much needed) load off your legs. Spinning is a good, low-impact way to boost your heart rate and stay toned without stressing your joints. Plus, as your belly swells, you can adjust the handle-bars to stay comfortable despite your ever-changing body.

Weight Training
Light strength training can help you stay toned before and after giving birth. If you were lifitng weights before you became pregnant, feel free to continue as long as you take it slow and easy and don't over-exert yourself. Always make sure to avoid heavy weights or routines that require you to lie flat on your back. If you weren't strength training before, it's probably best to find another exercise for now.

Brisk Walking
Whether it's on a trail, treadmill, or just around the block, walking is one of the easiest, safest ways to tone your muscles, stay active, and improve your mood. Walking is also something that can be done right up to delivery. Try walking a semi-swift mile three days a week for starters, and gradually increase your time and speed a little each week as you get stronger.

Low-Impact Aerobics
Aerobics is a great way to keep your heart strong, your muscles toned, and yourself feeling good. For a boost of energy and endorphins, try a low-impact, lower-intensity aerobics class taught by a certified professional to suit your needs and keep you feeling fit and strong throughout your pregnancy.

Kegels
Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that help hold up your uterus, bladder, and bowels, easing the impact of labor and delivery. Plus, the great thing about Kegels is that you can discreetly do them anytime, anywhere. Just squeeze your pelvic muscles as if you're trying to stop urinating or passing gas. Hold for five seconds and relax. Repeat 10 times, five times a day.

Limit High-Intensity Sports
If you regularly run, play tennis or participate in other high-intensity activities, you don't need to stop completely, but you may want to scale back on your routine. As your due date gets closer, make sure to run on flat, smooth surfaces to reduce impact and avoid falls. Since pregnancy increases your risk of joint injuries, steer clear of exercise that requires jerking, bouncing, sudden changes in body position or other high impact movements.

Remember to avoid overheating, as well as saunas and hot tubs, which may increase your baby's risk of birth defects, especially during the first trimester. Always drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after workouts.
And remember to listen to your body. If you feel hot, short of breath, or tired, take a break, let yourself cool down and take it easier next time.

Exercising during pregnancy can help you maintain a healthy weight, boost energy and self-esteem, reduce the risk of birth complications, and keep you feeling good mentally and physically. Plus, getting into good exercise habits now will make it much easier to lose that baby weight later. Low-impact activities like walking is not only convenient and a great way to get started, but is something you and your baby can do together, making it the perfect post-birth activity.

[image via WebMD]

11 'Super' Foods For New, Breastfeeding Moms

Tuesday, December 27th, 2011

For new mothers, the decision to breastfeed is a very personal matter but it's also one of the most important. Many in the medical community, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), strongly recommend breastfeeding since it reduces your baby's risk of developing asthma or allergies, respiratory illnesses, frequent ear infections, and helps develop a physical and emotional bond between mother and baby.

Of course, every mother and baby is unique, with different needs and abilities, so the decision to breastfeed is up to you. However, if you do decide to breastfeed,  there are some important steps you can take to ensure the experience is as natural and comfortable as possible.

As a new mother, one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby is to eat a healthy, nutritious diet filled with a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Although you may be in a hurry to shed that baby weight, eating nutrient-rich foods at regular intervals throughout the day can help stabilize your metabolism, boost energy and give you the stamina you need to keep up with your new baby.

For the health and well-being of your baby and yourself, it is essential to obtain the nutrients you and your baby needs by incorporating a variety of healthy breastfeeding foods. A good way to start is to make sure the following 11 'super' foods for new, nursing moms are an integral part of your diet. Your baby (and your body!) will thank you.

1. Salmon

Despite the warnings for breastfeeding women to limit their consumption of fish to 12 ounces per week because of potential exposure to mercury, salmon is the exception to the rule. In fact, salmon is a nutritional goldmine for new moms. Loaded with a type of fat called DHA, which is crucial to the development of your baby's nervous system, salmon is one of the best breastfeeding foods out there. While all breast milk contains DHA, levels of this essential nutrient are higher in the milk of women whose diets contain DHA-rich foods, helping mood and according to some studies, playing a role in preventing postpartum depression.

2. Low-Fat Dairy Products

Whatever form you prefer, be it yogurt, milk, or cheese, dairy products are a vital part of any healthy breastfeeding lifestyle. Not only do dairy products provide a great source of calcium to help your baby's bones develop, they also contain protein, vitamin B and vitamin D. It is recommended that nursing mothers include at least three cups of dairy each day as part of a balanced diet.

3. Lean Beef

Iron-rich foods, like lean beef, are a good way for new mothers to boost energy levels and keep up with the demands of caring for a newborn baby. Nursing mothers need to eat extra protein and vitamin B-12 to avoid iron deficiencies which can quickly drain your energy levels, and lean beef offers an excellent source of both these nutrients.

4. Legumes

Dark colored beans like black beans and kidney beans are a great choice for nursing mothers, particularly vegetarians because they are rich in iron and a good inexpensive source of high-quality non-animal protein.

5. Blueberries

Breastfeeding moms should try to get at least two servings of fruit or juice every day, and what better way to meet your daily needs than delicious, antioxidant-rich blueberries? Not only are blueberries filled with numerous vitamins and minerals, but they also offer a quick energy boost in the form of carbohydrates.

6. Brown Rice

Often times new mothers are tempted to drastically cut back on carbohydrates as a quick way to shed that baby weight. However, doctors caution against this, as losing weight too quickly may cause you to produce less milk for the baby and leave you feeling lethargic and sluggish. A much better idea is to incorporate healthy, whole-grain carbs like brown rice into your diet to keep your energy levels up and give your body the necessary calories to produce the best quality milk for your baby.

7. Oranges

Oranges are a great, nutritious energy source for new moms, and since breastfeeding moms need even more vitamin C than pregnant women, oranges and similar citrus fruits are also an excellent breastfeeding food. Whether eaten in fruit or juice form, oranges offer a vitamin-C rich product with the added convenience of portability for those hectic days. Sipping on orange juice, particularly calcium-fortified varieties is a good way to get even more nutritional benefit from an already-delicious, healthy beverage.

8. Eggs

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient to keep your bones strong and help your baby's bones grow, and few foods provide as much natural vitamin D as egg yolks. Eggs are extremely versatile, easy to make, and are even available DHA-fortified to increase the level of this essential fatty acid in your breast milk.

9. Whole-Grain Breads & Cereal

Whole grain breads and pastas are fortified with fiber, iron, and folic acid, which is critical to your baby's development in the early stages of pregnancy. Folic acid is not only important for your own health and well-being, but is also an essential nutrient in your breast milk that is vital to the baby's development and growth. A great way to start the day is with a breakfast of vitamins and nutrient-fortified whole-grain cereal to boost energy and help you meet your daily needs.

10. Leafy Greens

Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are chock-full of vitamins and minerals. They're low-calorie, a great non-dairy source of calcium, contain vitamin C, and iron, and are packed with heart-healthy antioxidants. They're also loaded with vitamin A, which your baby gets from your breast milk to ensure healthy development.

11. Water

New nursing mothers are especially prone to dehydration, which can quickly drain energy. In order to keep energy levels and milk production up, it is important to meet the necessary fluid requirements and stay well hydrated. Drink plenty of water, juice, and milk, but use caution when it comes to caffeinated beverages like coffee or tea because too much can disrupt sleep and cause your baby to become irritable. Keep your intake to no more than 2-3 cups a day, switch to decaffeinated, or better yet, opt for water instead.

The health benefits of breastfeeding are numerous and it can be one of the more enjoyable experiences of new motherhood, providing precious time for you and your newborn to relax as you bond emotionally and physically. While the decision to breastfeed is a personal one, it doesn't have to be made alone. Remember that most women need some help and guidance along the way so be sure to ask your Women's HealthFirst doctor any questions or concerns you may have to ensure the experience is as positive for you as it is for your new baby.

[image via Pregnancy.com]

Simple Steps For Sleeping Well During Pregnancy

Thursday, December 8th, 2011

Getting a good night's sleep is always an important component of a healthy lifestyle, but an adequate amount of rest becomes even more critical during pregnancy. Pregnancy often brings on all sorts of sleep disturbances including nausea, heartburn, frequent urination, leg cramps, and snoring, plus bad sleeping habits from before you were pregnant can make these problems worse.

And considering that once your baby is born, your chances of having a restful night's sleep diminishes substantially, there are some helpful steps you can take to help ensure a better night's sleep – in pregnancy and beyond.

Just Say No To Smoking & Alcohol

It is common knowledge that cigarettes and alcohol are harmful to both you and your baby, but did you know that they can also negatively affect your ability to get a good night's sleep? Because nicotine is a stimulant, smokers tend to have less deep, restful sleep and feel less rested than nonsmokers. Conversely, alcohol, which is a depressant, can make you feel tired and make it easier to fall asleep, but in fact, disrupts your body's ability to get a deep, productive sleep and can actually make you feel more awake in the second half of the night.

Cut Down On Caffeine

Limit your consumption of food and drinks that contain caffeine such as coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate. But if you must have that cup of coffee or chocolate bar, it is best to avoid them in the late afternoon and evening. Also, if frequent trips to the bathroom are keeping you awake at night, try to drink more fluids early in the day and less in the evening.

Steer Clear Of Spicy Foods & Heavy Meals Before Bedtime

Spicy, acidic foods such as chili and tomatoes can cause heartburn and indigestion, as can eating a big meal right before bedtime. A good idea for those who suffer from heartburn is to eat lighter meals, and eat them earlier to give yourself two to three hours to properly digest your food before hitting the pillow.

A Snack A Day Keeps Morning Sickness Away

If nausea and morning sickness are keeping you from getting a good night's sleep, it is important to keep your stomach full during the night. Munching on a light, plain snack such as crackers or toast, especially before bedtime, can go a long way in curing those morning sickness blues.

Workout While It's Light Out

While exercise is important for both your health and the health of your baby, make sure to get in your workout program in early enough in the day to give your body enough time to wind down. Exercising too close to bedtime can leave your body revved up and disrupt your natural sleep cycle. Make sure to finish exercising at least three to four hours before you call it a night to ensure a restful, productive night's sleep.

Feeling Stressed? There's A Nap For That!

The National Sleep Foundation finds that more than 50% of pregnant women take a least one nap during the week and 60% take at least one nap during the weekend. Studies show that taking a 30-60 minute nap during the day makes you more alert, focused, sharpens memory, and generally reduces feelings of fatigue. Just make sure to time your naps carefully to avoid napping too long or too late in the day which can interfere with sleeping at night.

Take A Deep Breath & Relax

With all the stress that comes with being a new mother, staying relaxed and calm can be a daunting task. Establishing a regular, relaxing bedtime routine – such as reading or taking a bath before you call it a night – can go a long way in helping you achieve a restful night's sleep.

Yoga and stretching can also help you relax and unwind, in addition to help keeping you toned and flexible during pregnancy. Simple moves for gently stretching your neck, shoulders, calves, hamstrings, back and waist during the day and before bedtime can help relax your body, reduce stress, and make falling asleep easier.

Sleep "Smart"

Pregnant women often report feeling warmer than usual, so a good idea is to keep your room on the cool side to avoid overheating. Try to block out light and noise, too, which can easily disrupt your sleep.

Doctors also recommend expectant mothers learn to sleep on their left side, which helps blood and nutrients flow to the baby and uterus and helps the body eliminate waste and fluids. Getting your body acclimated to this position early in your pregnancy will help ease you into the process and improve your chances of a good night's sleep as your baby (and belly!) grows bigger.

Remember that, as with any major change to your body, sleeping while pregnant can take some getting used to. But the key is to relax, stay calm, and try to remain on a good sleep/wake schedule. If you wake up in the middle of the night, don't panic. Interrupted, sporadic sleep during pregnancy is perfectly natural. On the bright side, it will certainly get you nice and prepared for your next big challenge: parenthood!

[image via Baby Center]

Reading The Signs: Early Symptoms Of Pregnancy

Wednesday, October 5th, 2011

Every woman's body is different, so it's no surprise that every woman's body responds to being pregnant in it's own unique way. The early symptoms of pregnancy vary from woman to woman and even from pregnancy to pregnancy. Some women seem to know from the start that they are pregnant, while others have no idea they are pregnant until they miss their first period, arguably the most common and widely recognized sign of pregnancy.

Since the early symptoms of pregnancy can sometimes resemble menstruation, it is not uncommon to miss some of the symptoms. It's also important to keep in mind that the symptoms may be caused by other factors, so just because you notice them does not necessarily mean you are pregnant. Of course, the only sure-fire way to know whether you're pregnant is with a pregnancy test. However, there are some early symptoms to watch out for:

Missed Period
One of the earliest and most common pregnancy symptoms is a missed period. While recent excessive weight gain or loss, stress, fatigue, the use of some contraceptive pills, or certain disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCO) can also cause a missed period, if your period is delayed and there is a possibility you may be pregnant, it is definitely a good idea to get a pregnancy test to be sure.

Spotting & Cramping
Another early sign of pregnancy is spotting and cramping, which can occur a few days after conception when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall. Known as implantation bleeding, it can occur anywhere from six to 12 days after the egg is fertilized. While the signs may resemble a menstrual cycle, the bleeding and cramps tend to be slighter, and may be accompanied by a white, milky discharge. This discharge is caused by the increased growth of cells lining the vaginal wall, and can continue throughout your pregnancy.

Changes In Your Breasts
Tenderness in the breasts is one of the most common early symptoms of pregnancy. Hormone changes can cause your breasts to become extra sensitive, swollen, sore, or tingly. Or they may feel heavier, fuller or tender to the touch. Some women even experience an increase in the size of the breasts soon after conception.

In addition, the area around the nipples, called the areola, may darken. This is considered one of the first pregnancy signs and remains throughout the pregnancy. Any woman who notices this darkness in her areolas should consult with her provider at Women's HealthFirst, as this is one of the tell-tale signs of pregnancy.

Fatigue
Feeling unusually fatigued or tired is a common pregnancy symptom and is related to a high level of progesterone in your system, although other factors such as lower levels of blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and increased blood production can all contribute. If your fatigue is related to pregnancy, it's important to make sure you get plenty of rest, and eat foods that are rich in protein and iron, which can help alleviate the effects.

Nausea (Morning Sickness)
Nausea, or morning sickness as it is commonly known, is another classic pregnancy symptom. Morning sickness is actually a misnomer, since the nauseous feeling can (and often does) occur at any time during the day. It usually starts in the first 5-6 weeks of pregnancy, but can be felt as early as two weeks after conception. While certainly unpleasant, the good news is that morning sickness tends to fade away at the end of the third trimester.

Other Early Symptoms of Pregnancy:

• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Change in smell and taste, commonly described as a metallic taste
• Dizziness, fainting, mild headaches, or back pain
• Mood swings

While every woman's pregnancy experience is different, it is not uncommon to have all, none, or just one or two of these symptoms. The important thing to remember is that it is always better to be safe than sorry, so if you experience any of the above symptoms, take a pregnancy test to confirm your suspicions, and always talk to your doctor at Women's HealthFirst to determine the best course of action for you.

[image via Best Pregnancy Tips]

Eating For Two: Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy

Thursday, September 8th, 2011

When you're pregnant, what you eat and drink significantly impacts the health of your child, now and possibly forever.

From your first prenatal visit with your obstetrician, you'll hear all about what you should be eating and drinking during pregnancy. But when it comes to what about foods to avoid, conventional wisdom flip-flops from year to year, and things that were once considered perfectly safe may now be taboo.

Now that you're eating for two, it is important to know which foods contain chemicals or bacteria that can interfere with fetal development, cause serious infection, or be potentially dangerous to you and your baby.

So, here is a list of foods to avoid for the next nine months—no matter how much you may crave them!

Don't worry, though, pickles and ice cream are still perfectly safe. Mmmmm!

Hold The Cheese, Please.

Eating raw milk and/or dairy products made from unpasteurized milk, such as Mexican queso blanco during pregnancy can be risky because they can harbor Listeria bacteria, which has been linked to miscarriage, premature delivery, and death. It is best to avoid Brie, feta, Camembert, Roquefort, blue-veined, queso fresco, and queso Panela, unless the label says it's pasteurized. When in doubt, just say no!

Say Ta Ta To Steak Tartare!

You might like your filet mignon bloody, but pregnancy is the time to order all steaks, burgers, and chops well-done, since raw or undercooked meat can harbor a variety of bacteria. Since listeria, unlike many other foodborne germs, can thrive at temperatures inside your fridge, pregnant women should steer clear of perishable, ready-to-eat luncheon meats, such as cold cuts and hot dogs.

Make sure all meat is steaming hot and thoroughly cooked, and as tempting as it may be, avoid meat that is still pink on the inside. The precious cargo in your inside will thank you!

Seafood...Just Don't Necessarily Eat It!

Fish is low in fat and high in protein and essential Omega-3 fatty acids, which makes most fish an excellent nutritional choice during pregnancy. However some large fish -- such as swordfish, shark, tilefish, and king mackerel -- may contain higher concentrations of mercury, which can interfere with the normal development of a growing child's brain and nervous system.

Instead, choose fish that are low in mercury, such as catfish, tilapia, salmon, shrimp, and canned light tuna. The FDA recommends that pregnant women limit their consumption of these fish to 12 ounces or less per week, while canned albacore, or "white" tuna, which has more mercury than light tuna, should be limited to six ounces per week.

Sorry, sushi fans, but it's time to say Sayonara to this Japanese treat since pregnant women should only eat fish and other seafood that has been cooked thoroughly.

Remember, in life, as in love, there are plenty of fish in the sea, so cast a wide net!

Going Green.

Pregnancy is no time to skimp on fresh fruits and vegetables, but raw sprouts including alfalfa, clover, and radish, are no-no's, and doctors suggest pregnant women steer clear of salad bars (germ-heaven!) as well as packaged spinach, lettuce, etc, which can carry harmful bacteria.

Expectant women have to be extra careful about thoroughly washing their produce before consumption. Instead of using soap, doctors recommend scrubbing the surface with a small vegetable brush, as well as cutting away any bruised areas, since these may harbor bacteria.

Also best to avoid fresh-squeezed juice in restaurants, juice bars, or farm stands that may not be pasteurized against harmful bacteria, including salmonella and E. coli. Always look for the required warning label and proceed accordingly. Only then can you enjoy the sweets of your labor!

The Caffeine Conundrum.

There is now significant evidence that a moderate amount of caffeine is safe during pregnancy. But the medical community remains divided on whether higher amounts of caffeine, from coffee, tea, cola, cocoa, or energy drinks, increases the odds of a miscarriage. As with everything else, when it comes to caffeine, moderation is key. It is recommended that women who are pregnant or trying should limit caffeine to 200 mg per day, equivalent to one 12-ounce cup of coffee and try to drink decaffeinated beverages, especially during the first trimester when the risk of miscarriage is highest.

That's a latte time and money you'll save skipping the morning rush to Starbucks!

The Sobering Truth About Alcohol.

It is no secret that alcohol robs developing cells of oxygen and vital nutrients, prevents normal fetal development, and impairs intellectual abilities and physical growth in the womb.

It is best to avoid all forms of alcohol, including wine, beer, hard liquor, or spirits because every time you drink a beer or a glass of wine, your baby does, too.

Moderation Is Key.

During your pregnancy, you're eating for two—but that doesn't mean you need double the amount of calories and fat in your diet. Instead, choose foods that have the dual effect of providing the additional calories your body needs, as well as the extra nutrients that maximize your baby’s development.

While the food cravings of pregnant women tends to be the stuff of stand-up comedy, it's fine to indulge them in moderation. Whether it's peanut butter and pickles for breakfast, lasagna with chocolate sauce for dinner, or ice cream and relish in the middle of the night, you can eat what you enjoy, so long as you take a few simple precautions for the health of your baby.