So, You’re Pregnant?
We inform, you decide.
Information Guide
Self-Care Tips
Possible Complications
Normal Development
Important Self-Care Tips
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Take prenatal vitamins with a meal
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Do not try to lose weight during your pregnancy
- Get plenty of calcium, iron and protein
- Avoid alcohol, marijuana, nicotine and opiates
- Get plenty of rest – naps can help
- Do not take any medications unless otherwise directed by your doctor
To help manage nausea, eat small frequent meals, keeping something in your stomach at all times. Make sure to stay hydrated. Nausea usually subsides after the first trimester.
First Trimester Development
Week by week
| Fetal Development | |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Last Menstrual Period |
| Week 2 | Conception – Life begins |
| Week 3 | Baby attaches to the uterus |
| Week 4 | Nerves, brain and spinal cord begin to develop |
| Week 5 | Heart begins to beat |
| Week 6 | Eyes, arms, legs, lungs and stomach are forming |
| Fetal Development | |
|---|---|
| Week 7 | Hands and feet are forming |
| Week 8 | All organs are present |
| Week 9 | Toes and genitals are forming |
| Week 10 | Baby has permanent fingerprints |
| Week 11 | Baby starts to produce urine |
| Week 12 | Fingernails are forming |
Symptoms of Possible Complications
If you have any of the following physical problems, call your doctor or go to the emergency department right away.
- Vaginal bleeding of any amount
- Abdominal pain with a fever
- Cramping and abdominal pain more than your period
- Burning with urination
- Puffiness in your hands or face
- Excessive vomiting
Any of the above symptoms could indicate serious complications and should be addressed by a medical professional immediately.
Prenatal Care
What to Expect
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, you will want to follow up with your doctor for an initial prenatal visit. If you do not already have an OB-GYN or family practice doctor, a list of quality area physicians will be provided to you. At each doctor’s visit you will have your weight, blood pressure and urine checked. The doctor will continue to monitor the health and development of your baby throughout your pregnancy. Routine tests will be performed during your pregnancy to rule out complications. Most doctors order a diagnostic ultrasound midway through your pregnancy. Doctors usually suggest that you continue normal activity such as work and light exercise, provided there are no health concerns for you or your baby.
How many weeks am I?
It can be confusing during the early weeks because pregnancy (which is an average of 40 weeks long) is measured from the first day of your last menstrual period. Even though you likely ovulated and conceived two weeks after the first day of your period, those two extra weeks prior to conception are added to calculate your gestational age.