MISS PERIOD (AMENORRHOEA)

This is often the earliest sign of pregnancy  but illness, stress and anxiety can also cause amenorrhoea. Some pregnant women  experience spotting of blood  during implantation or if hormone levels are not yet sufficiently high. it can also be sign of threatened miscarriage.

WEIGHT GAIN

A total increase in weight of about 12.5 kg or 0.4 kg per week occurs in pregnancy. It comes from the fetus, uterus, placenta , amniotic fluid, breasts , increased blood and fluid and extra fat deposited for lactation. Sudden rapid weight gain may indicate preclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy) and needs immediate treatment.

NAUSEA WITH OR WITHOUT VOMITING

Although traditionally called morning sickness, it can happen any time of day or night. The condition occurs in about fifty percent of pregnant women. It ranges from queasiness at the sight or smell of certain foods to vomiting several times a day. Rarely does it persist beyond three months.

ABDOMINAL ENLARGEMENT

This is due to the fetus and expanding uterus. After 12 weeks the doctor will be able to feel your uterus. By the end of pregnancy the top of your uterus will be level with the lower end of your breastbone. Your pregnancy will start to show about the forth month.

FREQUENCY OF URINATION

This is due to increased blood circulating in the body and pressure on the bladder from the enlarging uterus. After three months it usully improves because the uterus rises out the pelvis into the abdomen.In late pregnancy when the head of the foetus descends into the pelvis it may recur. It is important not to limit fluid intake.

SKIN CHANGES

Increased pigmentation causes a dark line down the center of your abdomen, darkening of your nipples and areolae and some women light brown patches on the face.Stretch marks may appear on the lower abdomen  , upper tighs, buttocks and breasts. They are caused by overstretching of the lestic fibres in the skin. After delivery they will fade to silvery lines. Itching especially of the abdomen occurs in some women. Applying cream or lotion may soothe it.

BREAST CHANGES

In preparation for lactation (breastfeeding) the glands enlarge and fat is deposited. The breast become bigger and feel tender. Veins appear more prominent. The niples and surrounding areolea darken. Montgomey's tubercles can be seen on the areolae.

QUICKENING

The first foetal movements are felt around 20 weeks if it's your first pregnancy or about two weeks earlier in a subsequent one. Foetal movements are an important indicator of foetal well-being.

INCREASE IN VAGINAL DISCHARGE

A clear copious discharge which may leave a yellowish stain on your underwear is normal. Coloured discharge which causes an itch and smells offensive is a sign of vaginal infection. It is quiet common in pregnancy and easily treated.

BRAXTON-HICKS CONTRACTIONS

From mid-pregnancy onwards some women are aware of an intermitten , painless tightening across the abdomen lasting about 20 sec. Whether you experience them or not does not affect the outcome of your pregnancy.

FOOD CRAVINGS AND AVERSIONS

An increase in appetite during pregnancy but you may go off certain foods and develop cravings for unusual ones. Avoid caffeinated drinks, cigrates and foods with artificial coloring and preservative are best avoided.

SWELLING OF EXTREMITIES

The retention of fluid in your body caused by hormones may cause swelling of your ankles, feet and hands. In late pregnancy when fetal head descends into pelvis it may press against vessels and slow down the return of fluid from the lower extremities. Avoid standing for long periods and put your feet up as often as you can during the day. Place a pillow beneath your feet when you are in bed.

FLATULENCE, CONSTIPATION AND PILES

The gut tends to slow in pregnancy due to hormones. Include enough roughage in your diet and avoid gas-forming   foods such as onions, cabbage beans and sprouts.

HEADACHES

Rest and relaxation and massaging the temples will help relieve them. They may also indicate preclampsia.

DIFFICULTY IN SLEEPING

As you grown bigger you may find it uncomfortable lying in bed. Your sleep may be interrupted by trips to the toilet and nightmare about your baby. Try lying on one side with a pillow  under your tummy , another between your knees plus couple beneath your head.