Pregnancy
From conception to childbirth, pregnancy is an experience of life like no other. The 9 months of the term are both to be savoured as well as to be used as a preparatory phase for the life-long job of being a parent. Many changes are to be expected and embraced; and a few contingencies being completely normal.
Conception is the first stage of becoming a parent and it is best if you have a detailed discussion with your Ob-gyn prior to conception. Conception could be either natural or in some cases assisted. For a successful conception, it is best to undergo a preconception check and understand your menstrual cycle. Successful conception can take time and it is important to be patient.
The first sign of pregnancy is when you miss your period and have had a positive result on your at-home pregnancy test. Official confirmation, however, is with a blood test and you will also see certain signs and symptoms in addition to a positive result on the at-home test.
Couples ought to speak to an expert gynaecologist and obstetrician to plan their pregnancy. The gynaecologist will undertake a thorough examination of both to-be parents and suggest any changes to their lifestyle that can increase the risk before, during or after the pregnancy. These changes could include – weight reduction, diet modification, work-life balance, regulating or abstinence from certain habits and so on.
Being well planned helps you minimize and mitigate a lot of inherent risks involved with pregnancy. And in cases where it is impossible to eliminate the risk, it helps you become better at dealing with contingencies. Overall, preparation and planning help you have a more enjoyable, enriching pregnancy experience.
Health conditions like obesity, diabetes, blood disorders, chronic kidney problems etc., increase the risk during pregnancy. Also, certain lifestyle factors such as excessive smoking, drinking, drug abuse also pose a potential danger.
Weight-gain during pregnancy is normal, however, excessive weight can does pose a potential risk, as does high blood pressure. Conception at a later stage of your reproductive life is also difficult to sustain while thyroid related issues are an inherent risk to pregnancy.
