Pregnancy is the carrying of one or more offspring, known as a fetus A fetus is a developing mammal or other viviparous vertebrate after the embryonic stage and before birth or embryo An embryo is a multicellular diploid eukaryote in its earliest stage of development, from the time of first cell division until birth, hatching, or germination. In humans, it is called an embryo until about eight weeks after fertilization (i.e. ten weeks LMP), and from then it is instead called a fetus, inside the womb The uterus (from Latin "uterus" , plural uteruses or uteri) or womb is a major female hormone-responsive reproductive sex organ of most mammals including humans. One end, the cervix, opens into the vagina, while the other is connected to one or both fallopian tubes, depending on the species. It is within the uterus that the fetus of a female Female is the sex of an organism, or a part of an organism, which produces non-mobile ova (egg cells). In a pregnancy, there can be multiple gestations Gestation is the carrying of an embryo or fetus inside a female viviparous animal. Mammals during pregnancy can have one or more gestations at the same time . The time interval of a gestation plus 2 weeks is called gestation period, and the length of time plus 2 weeks that the offspring have spent developing in the uterus is called gestational age, as in the case of twins A twin is one of two offspring produced in the same pregnancy or triplets A multiple birth occurs when more than one fetus is carried to term in a single pregnancy. Different names for multiple births are used, depending on the number of offspring. Common multiples are two and three, known as twins and triplets. These and other multiple births occur to varying degrees in most animal species, although the term is most. Human Humans are a species of animal known taxonomically as Homo sapiens , and are the only extant member of the Homo genus of bipedal primates in Hominidae, the great ape family. However, in some cases "human" is used to refer to any member of the genus Homo pregnancy is the most studied of all mammalian pregnancies In mammals, pregnancy is the period of reproduction during which a female carries one or more live offspring from implantation in the uterus through gestation. It begins when a fertilized zygote implants in the female's uterus; and ends once it leaves the uterus. Childbirth Childbirth is the culmination of a human pregnancy or gestation period with the birth of one or more newborn infants from a woman's uterus. The process of normal human childbirth is categorized in three stages of labour: the shortening and dilation of the cervix, descent and birth of the infant, and birth of the placenta. In many cases, with usually occurs about 38 weeks after conception; i.e., approximately 40 weeks from the last normal menstrual period (LNMP) in humans Humans are a species of animal known taxonomically as Homo sapiens , and are the only extant member of the Homo genus of bipedal primates in Hominidae, the great ape family. However, in some cases "human" is used to refer to any member of the genus Homo. The World Health Organization defines normal term for delivery as between 37 weeks and 42 weeks. In decades past in polite society a pregnant woman would be described as expecting, eating for two, heavy with child or in the motherly way! but usually never as being pregnant except by her attending physician.

Contents

Terminology

One scientific Science is a systematic enterprise of gathering knowledge about nature and organizing and condensing that knowledge into testable laws and theories. As knowledge has increased, some methods have proved more reliable than others, and today the scientific method is the standard for science. It includes the use of careful observation, experimentation, term for the state of pregnancy is gravid, and a pregnant female Female is the sex of an organism, or a part of an organism, which produces non-mobile ova (egg cells) is sometimes referred to as a gravida In medicine, gravidity refers to the number of times a woman has been pregnant. The pregnancies may have been interrupted by abortion, fetal death, or may have resulted in a live birth.[1] Neither word is used in common speech. Similarly, the term "parity In medicine, parity is a technical term that refers to the number of times a woman or female animal has given birth. A woman who has given birth a particular number of times is referred to as para 0, para 1, para 2, para 3 and so on" (abbreviated as "para") is used for the number of previous successful live births. Medically, a woman who has never been pregnant is referred to as a "nulligravida", a woman who is (or has been only) pregnant for the first time as a "primigravida"[2], and a woman in subsequent pregnancies as a multigravida or "multiparous".[1][3][4] Hence, during a second pregnancy a woman would be described as "gravida 2, para 1" and upon live delivery as "gravida 2, para 2". An in-progress pregnancy, as well as abortions, miscarriages, or stillbirths A stillbirth occurs when a fetus, which has died in the uterus, during labor or delivery, is born. The term is often used in distinction to live birth or miscarriage. Most stillbirths occur in full term pregnancies account for parity values being less than the gravida number, whereas a multiple birth will increase the parity value. Women who have never carried a pregnancy achieving more than 20 weeks of gestation age are referred to as "nulliparous".[5]

The term embryo An embryo is a multicellular diploid eukaryote in its earliest stage of development, from the time of first cell division until birth, hatching, or germination. In humans, it is called an embryo until about eight weeks after fertilization (i.e. ten weeks LMP), and from then it is instead called a fetus is used to describe the developing offspring during the first 8 weeks following conception, and the term fetus A fetus is a developing mammal or other viviparous vertebrate after the embryonic stage and before birth is used from about 2 months of development until birth.[6][7]

In many societies' medical or legal definitions, human pregnancy is somewhat arbitrarily divided into three trimester periods, as a means to simplify reference to the different stages of prenatal development Prenatal or antenatal development is the process in which an embryo or fetus gestates during pregnancy, from fertilization until birth. Often, the terms fetal development, foetal development, or embryology are used in a similar sense. The first trimester carries the highest risk of miscarriage Miscarriage or spontaneous abortion is the spontaneous end of a pregnancy at a stage where the embryo or fetus is incapable of surviving, generally defined in humans at prior to 24 weeks of gestation. Miscarriage is the most common complication of early pregnancy (natural death of embryo or fetus). During the second trimester, the development of the fetus can be more easily monitored and diagnosed. The beginning of the third trimester often approximates the point of viability A fetus is a developing mammal or other viviparous vertebrate after the embryonic stage and before birth, or the ability of the fetus to survive, with or without medical help, outside of the uterus The uterus (from Latin "uterus" , plural uteruses or uteri) or womb is a major female hormone-responsive reproductive sex organ of most mammals including humans. One end, the cervix, opens into the vagina, while the other is connected to one or both fallopian tubes, depending on the species. It is within the uterus that the fetus.[8]

Progression

Stages in prenatal development Prenatal or antenatal development is the process in which an embryo or fetus gestates during pregnancy, from fertilization until birth. Often, the terms fetal development, foetal development, or embryology are used in a similar sense, with weeks and months numbered from last menstrual period.

Initiation

The initial stages of human embryogenesis Human embryology is the study of human development during the first eight weeks from gametogenesis pre-conception through fertilization (conception of sperm and oocyte in the ampulla arm where the fallopian tube and ovary adjoin) up to and including the 8th week after implantation of the zygote (fertilized egg) in the uterus. After the 8th week of.

Pregnancy occurs as the result of the female gamete or oocyte An oocyte, ovocyte, or rarely ocyte, is a female gametocyte or germ cell involved in reproduction. In other words, it is an immature ovum, or egg cell. An oocyte is produced in the ovary during female gametogenesis. The female germ cells produce a primordial germ cell which undergoes a mitotic division to form an oogonium. During oogenesis the merging with the male gamete, spermatozoon, in a process referred to, in medicine, as "fertilization Fertilisation , is the fusion of gametes to produce a new organism. In animals, the process involves the fusion of an ovum with a sperm, which eventually leads to the development of an embryo. Depending on the animal species, the process can occur within the body of the female in internal fertilisation, or outside in the case of external", or more commonly known as "conception". After the point of fertilization Fertilisation , is the fusion of gametes to produce a new organism. In animals, the process involves the fusion of an ovum with a sperm, which eventually leads to the development of an embryo. Depending on the animal species, the process can occur within the body of the female in internal fertilisation, or outside in the case of external, it is referred to as a zygote A zygote , or zygocyte, is the initial cell formed when a new organism is produced by means of sexual reproduction. A zygote is synthesized from the union of two gametes, and constitutes the first stage in a unique organism's development. Zygotes are usually produced by a fertilization event between two haploid cells — an ovum from a female and or fertilized egg. The fusion of male and female gametes usually occurs through the act of sexual intercourse, resulting in spontaneous pregnancy. However, the advent of artificial insemination Artificial insemination, or AI, is the process by which sperm is placed into the reproductive tract of a female for the purpose of impregnating the female by using means other than sexual intercourse. In humans, it is used as assisted reproductive technology, primarily to treat infertility using sperm from the woman's partner, or sperm from a and in vitro fertilisation The term in vitro, from the [Latin] root meaning within the glass, is used, because early biological experiments involving cultivation of tissues outside the living organism from which they came, were carried out in glass containers such as beakers, test tubes, or petri dishes. Today, the term in vitro is used to refer to any biological procedure have also made achieving pregnancy possible in cases where sexual intercourse does not result in fertilization (e.g., through choice or male/female infertility Infertility primarily refers to the biological inability of a person to contribute to conception. Infertility may also refer to the state of a woman who is unable to carry a pregnancy to full term. There are many biological causes of infertility, some which may be bypassed with medical intervention).

Prenatal period

Prenatal defines the period occurring "around the time of birth Childbirth is the culmination of a human pregnancy or gestation period with the birth of one or more newborn infants from a woman's uterus. The process of normal human childbirth is categorized in three stages of labour: the shortening and dilation of the cervix, descent and birth of the infant, and birth of the placenta. In many cases, with", specifically from 22 completed weeks (154 days) of gestation (the time when birth weight Birth mass is the mass of a baby at its birth. It has direct links with the gestational age at which the child was born and can be estimated during the pregnancy by measuring fundal height. A baby born within the normal range of mass for that gestational age is known as appropriate for gestational age . Those born above or below that range have is normally 500 g) to 7 completed days after birth.[9]

Legal regulations in different countries include gestation age beginning from 16 to 22 weeks (5 months) before birth.

Postnatal period

Main article: Postnatal Postnatal is the period beginning immediately after the birth of a child and extending for about six weeks. Another term would be postpartum period, as it refers to the mother (whereas postnatal refers to the infant). Less frequently used is puerperium

The postnatal period begins immediately after the birth of a child and then extends for about six weeks. During this period, the mother's body returns to prepregnancy conditions as far as uterus The uterus (from Latin "uterus" , plural uteruses or uteri) or womb is a major female hormone-responsive reproductive sex organ of most mammals including humans. One end, the cervix, opens into the vagina, while the other is connected to one or both fallopian tubes, depending on the species. It is within the uterus that the fetus size and hormone levels are concerned.

Duration

The expected date of delivery (EDD) is 40 weeks counting from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP), and birth usually occurs between 37 and 42 weeks.[10] The actual pregnancy duration is typically 38 weeks after conception. Though pregnancy begins at conception, it is more convenient to date from the first day of a woman's last menstrual period, or from the date of conception if known. Starting from one of these dates, the expected date of delivery can be calculated. Forty weeks is 9 months and 6 days, which forms the basis of Naegele's rule Naegele's Rule is a standard way of calculating the due date for a pregnancy. It is named after Franz Karl Naegele , the German obstetrician who devised the rule for estimating date of delivery. More accurate and sophisticated algorithms take into account other variables, such as whether this is the first or subsequent child (i.e., pregnant woman is a primip or a multip In medicine, parity is a technical term that refers to the number of times a woman or female animal has given birth. A woman who has given birth a particular number of times is referred to as para 0, para 1, para 2, para 3 and so on, respectively), ethnicity, parental age, length of menstrual cycle, and menstrual regularity.

Pregnancy is considered "at term" when gestation attains 37 complete weeks but is less than 42 (between 259 and 294 days since LMP). Events before completion of 37 weeks (259 days) are considered preterm In humans, preterm birth refers to the birth of a baby of less than 37 weeks gestational age. The cause for preterm birth is in many situations elusive and unknown; many factors appear to be associated with the development of preterm birth, making the reduction of preterm birth a challenging proposition; from week 42 (294 days) events are considered postterm Postmaturity is when a baby has not yet been born after 42 weeks of gestation. Post-term, postmaturity, prolonged pregnancy, and post-dates pregnancy all refer to postmature birth. Post-mature births do not have any harmful effects on the mother, but the fetus, however, can begin to suffer from malnutrition. After the 42nd week of gestation, the.[11] When a pregnancy exceeds 42 weeks (294 days), the risk of complications for woman and fetus increases significantly.[10][12] As such, obstetricians usually prefer to induce labour, in an uncomplicated pregnancy, at some stage between 41 and 42 weeks.[13][14]

Recent medical literature prefers the terminology preterm and postterm to premature and postmature. Preterm and postterm are unambiguously defined as above, whereas premature and postmature have historical meaning and relate more to the infant's size and state of development rather than to the stage of pregnancy.[15][16]

Fewer than 5% of births occur on the due date; 50% of births are within a week of the due date, and almost 90% within 2 weeks.[17] It is much more useful and accurate, therefore, to consider a range of due dates, rather than one specific day, with some online due date calculators providing this information.

Accurate dating of pregnancy is important, because it is used in calculating the results of various prenatal tests Prenatal testing is testing for diseases or conditions in a fetus or embryo before it is born. The aim is to detect birth defects such as neural tube defects, Down syndrome, chromosome abnormalities, genetic diseases and other conditions, such as spina bifida, cleft palate, Tay Sachs disease, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, and (for example, in the triple test The triple test, also called triple screen, the Kettering test or the Bart's test, is an investigation performed during pregnancy in the second trimester to classify a patient as either high-risk or low-risk for chromosomal abnormalities). A decision may be made to induce If an induction causes complications during labor, a Caesarean section is almost always conducted. An induction is most likely to result in successful vaginal delivery when a woman is close to or in the early stages of labor. Signs of pending labor may include softening of the cervix, dilation and increasing frequency or intensity of contractions labour if a fetus is perceived to be overdue. Furthermore, if LMP and ultrasound dating predict different respective due dates, with the latter being later, this might signify slowed fetal growth and therefore require closer review.

The age of viability has been receding because of continued medical progress. Whereas it used to be 28 weeks, it has been brought back to as early as 23, or even 22 weeks in some countries. Unfortunately, there has been a profound increase in morbidity A disease is an abnormal condition affecting the body of an organism. It is often construed to be a medical condition associated with specific symptoms and signs. It may be caused by external factors, such as infectious disease, or it may be caused by internal disfunctions, such as autoimmune diseases and mortality Death is the termination of the biological functions that define a living organism. The word refers both to a particular process and to the condition that results thereby. The nature of the latter has been for millennia a central concern of the world's religious traditions and of philosophical enquiry. Belief in some kind of afterlife or rebirth associated with the increased survival to the extent it has led some to question the ethics Ethics is a branch of philosophy that addresses questions about morality—that is, concepts such as good vs. bad, noble vs. ignoble, right vs. wrong, and matters of justice, love, peace, and virtue and morality Morality is a sense of behavioral conduct that differentiates intentions, decisions, and actions between those that are good (or right) and bad (or wrong). A moral code is a system of morality (for example, according to a particular philosophy, religion, culture, etc.) and a moral is any one practice or teaching within a moral code. Immorality is of resuscitating at the edge of viability.[citation needed]

Childbirth

Main article: Childbirth Childbirth is the culmination of a human pregnancy or gestation period with the birth of one or more newborn infants from a woman's uterus. The process of normal human childbirth is categorized in three stages of labour: the shortening and dilation of the cervix, descent and birth of the infant, and birth of the placenta. In many cases, with

Childbirth Childbirth is the culmination of a human pregnancy or gestation period with the birth of one or more newborn infants from a woman's uterus. The process of normal human childbirth is categorized in three stages of labour: the shortening and dilation of the cervix, descent and birth of the infant, and birth of the placenta. In many cases, with is the process whereby an infant is born. It is considered by many to be the beginning of the infant's life, and age is defined relative to this event in most cultures.

A woman is considered to be in labour when she begins experiencing regular uterine contractions, accompanied by changes of her cervix — primarily effacement and dilation. While childbirth is widely experienced as painful, some women do report painless labours, while others find that concentrating on the birth helps to quicken labour and lessen the sensations. Most births are successful vaginal births, but sometimes complications arise and a woman may undergo a cesarean section A Caesarian section , also known as C-section or Caesar, is a surgical procedure in which incisions are made through a mother's abdomen (laparotomy) and uterus (hysterotomy) to deliver one or more babies. It is usually performed when a vaginal delivery would put the baby's or mother's life or health at risk, although in recent times it has been.

During the time immediately after birth, both the mother A mother is a woman who has, conceived, given birth to, or raised a child in the role of a parent. Because of the complexity and differences of a mothers' social, cultural, and religious definitions and roles, it is challenging to define a mother to suit a universally accepted definition. The masculine equivalent is a father and the baby are hormonally cued to bond, the mother through the release of oxytocin, a hormone also released during breastfeeding.

Diagnosis

Further information: Obstetrics

The beginning of pregnancy[18] may be detected in a number of different ways, either by a pregnant woman without medical testing, or by using medical tests with or without the assistance of a medical professional.

Most pregnant women experience a number of symptoms[19] , which can signify pregnancy. The symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, excessive tiredness and fatigue, craving for certain foods not normally considered a favorite, and frequent urination particularly during the night.

A number of early medical signs are associated with pregnancy.[20][21] These signs typically appear, if at all, within the first few weeks after conception. Although not all of these signs are universally present, nor are all of them diagnostic by themselves, taken together they make a presumptive diagnosis of pregnancy. These signs include the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the blood and urine, missed menstrual period, implantation bleeding that occurs at implantation of the embryo in the uterus during the third or fourth week after last menstrual period, increased basal body temperature sustained for over 2 weeks after ovulation, Chadwick's sign (darkening of the cervix, vagina, and vulva), Goodell's sign (softening of the vaginal portion of the cervix), Hegar's sign (softening of the uterus isthmus), and pigmentation of linea alba – Linea nigra, (darkening of the skin in a midline of the abdomen, caused by hyperpigmentation resulting from hormonal changes, usually appearing around the middle of pregnancy).[20][21]

Pregnancy detection can be accomplished using one or more various pregnancy[18] tests, which detect hormones generated by the newly formed placenta. Clinical blood and urine tests can detect pregnancy 12 days after implantation [22], which is as early as 6 to 8 days after fertilization. Blood pregnancy tests are more accurate than urine tests.[23] Home pregnancy tests are personal urine tests, which normally cannot detect a pregnancy until at least 12 to 15 days after fertilization. Both clinical and home tests can only detect the state of pregnancy, and cannot detect the date the embryo was conceived.

In the post-implantation phase, the blastocyst secretes a hormone named human chorionic gonadotropin, which in turn stimulates the corpus luteum in the woman's ovary to continue producing progesterone. This acts to maintain the lining of the uterus so that the embryo will continue to be nourished. The glands in the lining of the uterus will swell in response to the blastocyst, and capillaries will be stimulated to grow in that region. This allows the blastocyst to receive vital nutrients from the woman.

Despite all the signs, some women may not realize they are pregnant until they are quite far along in their pregnancy. In some cases, a few woman have not been aware of their pregnancy until they begin labour. This can be caused by many factors, including irregular periods (quite common in teenagers), certain medications (not related to conceiving children), and obese women who disregard their weight gain. Others may be in denial of their situation.

An early sonograph can determine the age of the pregnancy fairly accurately. In practice, doctors typically express the age of a pregnancy (i.e., an "age" for an embryo) in terms of "menstrual date" based on the first day of a woman's last menstrual period, as the woman reports it. Unless a woman's recent sexual activity has been limited, she has been charting her cycles, or the conception is the result of some types of fertility treatment (such as IUI or IVF), the exact date of fertilization is unknown. Without symptoms such as morning sickness, often the only visible sign of a pregnancy is an interruption of the woman's normal monthly menstruation cycle, (i.e., a "late period"). Hence, the "menstrual date" is simply a common educated estimate for the age of a fetus, which is an average of 2 weeks later than the first day of the woman's last menstrual period. The term "conception date" may sometimes be used when that date is more certain, though even medical professionals can be imprecise with their use of the two distinct terms. The due date can be calculated by using Naegele's rule. The expected date of delivery may also be calculated from sonogram measurement of the fetus. This method is slightly more accurate than methods based on LMP.[24] The beginning of labour, which is variously called confinement or childbed, begins on the day predicted by LMP 3.6% of the time and on the day predicted by sonography 4.3% of the time.[citation needed]

Diagnostic criteria are: Women who have menstrual cycles and are sexually active, a period delayed by a few days or weeks is suggestive of pregnancy; elevated B-hcG to around 100,000 mIU/mL by 10 weeks of gestation.[2]

Physiology

Pregnancy is typically broken into three periods, or trimesters, each of about three months. While there are no hard and fast rules, these distinctions are useful in describing the changes that take place over time.

First trimester

Traditionally, doctors have measured pregnancy from a number of convenient points, including the day of last menstruation, ovulation, fertilization, implantation and chemical detection. In medicine, pregnancy is often defined as beginning when the developing embryo becomes implanted into the endometrial lining of a woman's uterus. In some cases where complications may have arisen, the fertilized egg might implant itself in the fallopian tubes or the cervix, causing an ectopic pregnancy. Most pregnant women do not have any specific signs or symptoms of implantation, although it is not uncommon to experience minimal bleeding at implantation. Some women will also experience cramping during their first trimester. This is usually of no concern unless there is spotting or bleeding as well. After implantation the uterine endometrium is called the decidua. The placenta, which is formed partly from the decidua and partly from outer layers of the embryo, is responsible for transport of nutrients and oxygen to, and removal of waste products from the fetus. The umbilical cord is the connecting cord from the embryo or fetus to the placenta. The developing embryo undergoes tremendous growth and changes during the process of fetal development.

Morning sickness occurs in about seventy percent of all pregnant women and typically improves after the first trimester.[25] Although described as "morning sickness", women can experience this nausea during afternoon, evening, and throughout the entire day.

In the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, the nipples and areolas darken due to a temporary increase in hormones.[26]

Most miscarriages occur during this period.[citation needed]

Second trimester

Weeks 13 to 28 of the pregnancy are called the second trimester. Most women feel more energized in this period, and begin to put on weight as the symptoms of morning sickness subside and eventually fade away.

In the 20th week the uterus, the muscular organ that holds the developing fetus, can expand up to 20 times its normal size during pregnancy. Although the fetus begins to move and takes a recognizable human shape during the first trimester, it is not until the second trimester that movement of the fetus, often referred to as "quickening", can be felt. This typically happens in the fourth month, more specifically in the 20th to 21st week, or by the 19th week if the woman has been pregnant before. However, it is not uncommon for some women not to feel the fetus move until much later. The placenta fully functions at this time and the fetus makes insulin and urinates. The reproductive organs distinguish the fetus as male or female.

Third trimester

Comparison of growth of the abdomen between 26 weeks and 40 weeks gestation.

Final weight gain takes place, which is the most weight gain throughout the pregnancy. The fetus will be growing the most rapidly during this stage, gaining up to 28 g per day. The woman's belly will transform in shape as the belly drops due to the fetus turning in a downward position ready for birth. During the second trimester, the woman's belly would have been very upright, whereas in the third trimester it will drop down quite low, and the woman will be able to lift her belly up and down. The fetus begins to move regularly, and is felt by the woman. Fetal movement can become quite strong and be disruptive to the woman. The woman's navel will sometimes become convex, "popping" out, due to her expanding abdomen. This period of her pregnancy can be uncomfortable, causing symptoms like weak bladder control and backache. Movement of the fetus becomes stronger and more frequent and via improved brain, eye, and muscle function the fetus is prepared for ex utero viability. The woman can feel the fetus "rolling" and it may cause pain or discomfort when it is near the woman's ribs and spine.

There is head engagement in the third trimester, that is, the fetal head descends into the pelvic cavity so that only a small part (or nothing) of it can be felt abdominally.[27]

It is during this time that a baby born prematurely may survive. The use of modern medical intensive care technology has greatly increased the probability of premature babies surviving, and has pushed back the boundary of viability to much earlier dates than would be possible without assistance.[28] In spite of these developments, premature birth remains a major threat to the fetus, and may result in ill-health in later life, even if the baby survives.

Embryonic and fetal development

See also: Prenatal development

Prenatal development is divided into two primary biological stages. The first is the embryonic stage, which lasts for about two months. At this point, the fetal stage begins. At the beginning of the fetal stage, the risk of miscarriage decreases sharply,[29] all major structures including hands, feet, head, brain, and other organs are present, and they continue to grow and develop. When the fetal stage commences, a fetus is typically about 30 mm (1.2 inches) in length, and the heart can be seen beating via sonograph; the fetus bends the head, and also makes general movements and startles that involve the whole body.[30] Some fingerprint formation occurs from the beginning of the fetal stage.[31]

Electrical brain activity is first detected between the 5th and 6th week of gestation, though this is still considered primitive neural activity rather than the beginning of conscious thought, something that develops much later in fetation. Synapses begin forming at 17 weeks, and at about week 28 begin multiply at a rapid pace which continues until 3–4 months after birth. It isn't until week 23 that the fetus can survive, albeit with major medical support, outside of the womb. It is not until then that the fetus possesses a sustainable human brain.[32]

Embryo at 4 weeks after fertilization[33]

Fetus at 8 weeks after fertilization[34]

Fetus at 18 weeks after fertilization[35]

Fetus at 38 weeks after fertilization[36]

Relative size in 1st month (simplified illustration)

Relative size in 3rd month (simplified illustration)

Relative size in 5th month (simplified illustration)

Relative size in 9th month (simplified illustration)

One way to observe prenatal development is via ultrasound images. Modern 3D ultrasound images provide greater detail for prenatal diagnosis than the older 2D ultrasound technology.[37] While 3D is popular with parents desiring a prenatal photograph as a keepsake,[38] both 2D and 3D are discouraged by the FDA for non-medical use,[39] but there are no definitive studies linking ultrasound to any adverse medical effects.[40] The following 3D ultrasound images were taken at different stages of pregnancy:

75-mm fetus (about 14 weeks gestational age)

Fetus at 17 weeks

Fetus at 20 weeks

Some people are confused about the differences between an ultrasound and a sonogram. An ultrasound is the actual machine that lets you observe pregnancy. A sonogram is the image of the baby that the ultrasound produces. 4D Ultrasounds take 3D sonograms. Some people refer to the procedure as prenatal imaging, 3D imaging, a 3D scan, or 4D scan.

Maternal physiological changes

Main article: Maternal physiological changes in pregnancy

During pregnancy, the woman undergoes many physiological changes, which are entirely normal, including cardiovascular, hematologic, metabolic, renal and respiratory changes that become very important in the event of complications. The body must change its physiological and homeostatic mechanisms in pregnancy to ensure the fetus is provided for. Increases in blood sugar, breathing and cardiac output are all required. Levels of progesterone and oestrogens rise continually throughout pregnancy, suppressing the hypothalamic axis and subsequently the menstrual cycle. The woman and the placenta also produce many hormones.

Management

Main article: Prenatal care

Prenatal medical care is the medical and nursing care recommended for women before and during pregnancy. The aim of good prenatal care is to detect any potential problems early, to prevent them if possible (through recommendations on adequate nutrition, exercise, vitamin intake etc), and to direct the woman to appropriate specialists, hospitals, etc. if necessary.

Nutrition

Main article: Nutrition and pregnancy

A balanced, nutritious diet is an important aspect of a healthy pregnancy. Eating a healthy diet, balancing carbohydrates, fat, and proteins, and eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, usually ensures good nutrition. Those whose diets are affected by health issues, religious requirements, or ethical beliefs may choose to consult a health professional for specific advice.

Adequate periconceptional folic acid (also called folate or Vitamin B9) intake has been proven to limit fetal neural tube defects, preventing spina bifida, a very serious birth defect. The neural tube develops during the first 28 days of pregnancy, explaining the necessity to guarantee adequate periconceptional folate intake.[41][42] Folates (from folia, leaf) are abundant in spinach (fresh, frozen, or canned), and are found in green leafy vegetables e.g. salads, beets, broccoli, asparagus, citrus fruits and melons, chickpeas (i.e. in the form of hummus or falafel), and eggs. In the United States and Canada, most wheat products (flour, noodles) are fortified with folic acid.[43] Cosmetically, a deficiency in B vitamins can become apparent through increased pigmentation over areas of the body such as the forehead and cheeks (a condition known as 'pregnancy mask' or melasma).[44]

DHA omega-3 is a major structural fatty acid in the brain and retina, and is naturally found in breast milk. It is important for the woman to consume adequate amounts of DHA during pregnancy and while nursing to support her well-being and the health of her infant. Developing infants cannot produce DHA efficiently, and must receive this vital nutrient from the woman through the placenta during pregnancy and in breast milk after birth.[45]

Several micronutrients are important for the health of the developing fetus, especially in areas of the world where insufficient nutrition is prevalent.[46] In developed areas, such as Western Europe and the United States, certain nutrients such as Vitamin D and calcium, required for bone development, may require supplementation.[47][48][49]

Dangerous bacteria or parasites may contaminate foods, particularly Listeria and toxoplasma, toxoplasmosis agent. Careful washing of fruits and raw vegetables may remove these pathogens, as may thoroughly cooking leftovers, meat, or processed meat. Soft cheeses may contain Listeria; if milk is raw, the risk may increase. Cat feces pose a particular risk of toxoplasmosis. Pregnant women are also more prone to Salmonella infections from eggs and poultry, which should be thoroughly cooked. Practicing good hygiene in the kitchen can reduce these risks.[50]

Weight gain

Caloric intake must be increased to ensure proper development of the fetus. The amount of weight gained during pregnancy varies among women. The National Health Service recommends that overall weight gain during the 9 month period for women who start pregnancy with normal weight be 10 to 12.5 kilograms (22–28 lb).[51] During pregnancy, insufficient weight gain can compromise the health of the fetus. Likewise, excessive weight gain can pose risks to both the woman and the fetus. Women who are prone to being overweight may choose to plan a healthy diet and exercise to help moderate the amount of weight gained.

Immune tolerance

Main article: Immune tolerance in pregnancy

The fetus inside a pregnant woman may be viewed as an unusually successful allograft, since it genetically differs from the woman.[52] In the same way, many cases of spontaneous abortion may be described in the same way as maternal transplant rejection.[52]

Medication use

Main article: Drugs in pregnancy

Drugs used during pregnancy can have temporary or permanent effects on the fetus. Therefore many physicians would prefer not to prescribe for pregnant women, the major concern being over teratogenicity of the drugs.

Drugs have been classified into categories A,B,C,D and X based on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rating system to provide therapeutic guidance based on potential benefits and fetal risks. Drugs like multivitamins that have demonstrated no fetal risks after controlled studies in humans are classified as Category A. On the other hand drugs like thalidomide with proven fetal risks that outweigh all benefits are classified as Category X.[53]

Exposure to toxins

Various toxins pose a significant hazard to fetuses during development:

Sexual activity during pregnancy

Most pregnant women can enjoy sexual activity during pregnancy throughout gravidity. Most research suggests that, during pregnancy, both sexual desire and frequency of sexual relations decrease.[57][58] In context of this overall decrease in desire, some studies indicate a second-trimester increase, preceding a decrease.[59] However, these decreases are not universal: a significant number of women report greater sexual satisfaction throughout their pregnancies.[60]

Abortion

Main article: Abortion

An abortion is termination of the fetus either naturally or via medical methods. Natural abortion (miscarriage) is rare more than two months after fertilization.[29]

Stem cell collection

Two different types of stem cells can be collected before childbirth: amniotic stem cells and umbilical cord blood stem cells. The collection of amniotic stem cells is part of the process of amniocentesis. Umbilical cord blood stem cells can be stored in both public and private banks, such as the Biocell Center in Boston.[61][62][63].

Complications and complaints

Main article: Complications of pregnancy

Each year, according to the WHO, ill-health as a result of pregnancy is experienced (sometimes permanently) by more than 20 million women around the world. Furthermore, the "lives of eight million women are threatened, and more than 500,000 women are estimated to have died in 1995 as a result of causes related to pregnancy and childbirth".[64]

The following are complaints that may occur during pregnancy:

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Definition of gravida". The Free Dictionary/Medical Dictionary. Farlex, Inc. http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/gravida. Retrieved 2008-01-17.
  2. ^ Robinson, Victor, Ph.C., M.D. (editor) (1939). "Primipara". The Modern Home Physician, A New Encyclopedia of Medical Knowledge. WM. H. Wise & Company (New York). , page 596.
  3. ^ The American Heritage Medical Dictionary Copyright (definition of nulligravida).
  4. ^ Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary Definition of nulligravida Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary.
  5. ^ "Nulliparous Definition". MedicineNet.com. MedicineNet, Inc. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=15259. Retrieved 2008-01-17.
  6. ^ "Embryo Definition". MedicineNet.com. MedicineNet, Inc. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3225. Retrieved 2008-01-17.
  7. ^ "Fetus Definition". MedicineNet.com. MedicineNet, Inc. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3424. Retrieved 2008-01-17.
  8. ^ "Trimester Definition". MedicineNet.com. MedicineNet, Inc. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11446. Retrieved 2008-01-17.
  9. ^ Definitions and Indicators in Family Planning. Maternal & Child Health and Reproductive Health. By European Regional Office, World Health Organization. Revised March 1999 & January 2001. In turn citing: WHO Geneva, WHA20.19, WHA43.27, Article 23
  10. ^ a b Norwitz, MD, PhD, Errol R (September 2007). "Patient information: Postterm pregnancy". UpToDate. UpToDate, inc.. http://patients.uptodate.com/topic.asp?file=pregnan/5708. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
  11. ^ "Definitions". Saskatchewan Prevention Institute.. http://www.preventioninstitute.sk.ca/home/Program_Areas/Maternal__Infant_Health/Definitions/. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
  12. ^ The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (April 2006). "What To Expect After Your Due Date". Medem. Medem, Inc.. http://www.medem.com/MedLB/article_detaillb.cfm?article_ID=ZZZRDLPH97C&sub_cat=2005. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
  13. ^ Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (2001). "Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Induction of labour Evidence based Guideline" (PDF). Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. http://www.rcog.org.uk/resources/public/pdf/rcog_induction_of_labour.pdf. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  14. ^ Stovall, M.D., Thomas G. (2004-03-23). "Postdate Pregnancy". Durham Obstetrics and Gynecology. Durham Obstetrics and Gynecology. http://www.durhamobgyn.com/viewArticle?ID=336380. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  15. ^ "Definition of Premature birth". Medicine.net. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11895. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
  16. ^ Lama Rimawi, MD (2006-09-22). "Premature Infant". Disease & Conditions Encyclopedia. Discovery Communications, LLC.. http://health.discovery.com/encyclopedias/illnesses.html?article=2728. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
  17. ^ Dr Sally Tracy, Having a Great Birth in Australia ed. David Vernon, Australian College of Midwives, 2005, p22
  18. ^ a b "Pregnancy". National Health Service (NHS). March 11, 2010. http://www.nhs.uk/Planners/Pregnancycareplanner. Retrieved March 11, 2010.
  19. ^ "Pregnancy Symptoms". National Health Service (NHS). March 11, 2010. http://www.nhs.uk/livewell/sexandyoungpeople/pages/amipregnant.aspx. Retrieved March 11, 2010.
  20. ^ a b "Early symptoms of pregnancy: What happens right away". Mayo Clinic. February 22, 2007. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/symptoms-of-pregnancy/PR00102. Retrieved 2007-08-22.
  21. ^ a b "Pregnancy Symptoms – Early Signs of Pregnancy : American Pregnancy Association". http://www.americanpregnancy.org/gettingpregnant/earlypregnancysymptoms.html. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
  22. ^ Qasim SM, Callan C, Choe JK. "The predictive value of an initial serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin level for pregnancy outcome following in vitro fertilization.". Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics 13 (9): pp. 705–8. PMID 8947817.
  23. ^ "BestBets: Serum or Urine beta-hCG?". http://www.bestbets.org/bets/bet.php?id=936.
  24. ^ Nguyen, T.H.; et al. (1999). "Evaluation of ultrasound-estimated date of delivery in 17 450 spontaneous singleton births: do we need to modify Naegele's rule?" (abstract). Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology 14 (1): 23–28. doi:10.1046/j.1469-0705.1999.14010023.x. PMID 10461334. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1469-0705.1999.14010023.x. Retrieved 2007-08-18.
  25. ^ Early pregnancy: Morning sickness, fatigue and other common symptoms
  26. ^ "Pregnancy video". Channel 4. 2008. http://sexperienceuk.channel4.com/education/about/pregnancy. Retrieved 2009-01-22.
  27. ^ pregnancy-bliss.co.uk > Starting labour Retrieved on Jan 14, 2009
  28. ^ Iams JD; Romero R, Culhane JF, Goldenberg RL (12 January 2008). "Primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions to reduce the morbidity and mortality of preterm birth". Lancet 371 (9607): 164–75. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(08)60108-7. PMID 18191687.
  29. ^ a bQ&A: Miscarriage. (August 6 , 2002). BBC News. Retrieved 2007-04-22: “The risk of miscarriage lessens as the pregnancy progresses. It decreases dramatically after the 8th week.” • Lennart Nilsson, A Child is Born 91 (1990): at eight weeks, "the danger of a miscarriage … diminishes sharply". • “Women’s Health Information”, Hearthstone Communications Limited: “The risk of miscarriage decreases dramatically after the 8th week as the weeks go by.” Retrieved 2007-04-22.
  30. ^ Prechtl, Heinz. "Prenatal and Early Postnatal Development of Human Motor Behavior" in Handbook of brain and behaviour in human development, Kalverboer and Gramsbergen eds., pp. 415–418 (2001 Kluwer Academic Publishers). Retrieved 2007-03-04.
  31. ^ Zabinski, Mark. Forensic Series Seminar, Pastore Chemical Laboratory, University of Rhode Island (February 2003) (news report retrieved 2007-01-20).
  32. ^ Illes, Judy. Neuroethics: Defining the Issues in Theory, Practice, and Policy (Oxford University Press 2006): "The first sign of electrical brain activity occurs at the end of week 5 and the beginning of week 6 (Brody 1975). This is far from the beginning of conscious brain activity; it is primitive neural activity. [...] synapses start forming during week 17 and multiply rapidly around week 28, continuing at a rapid pace up until 3–4 months after birth. However, despite all this amazing and rapid growth and development, it is not until week 23 that the fetus can survive, with major medical support, outside of the womb. Before this, the fetus is simply laying the foundations for a brain—a very different thing from having a sustainable human brain." Retrieved 2008-12-11.
  33. ^ 3D Pregnancy (Image from gestational age of 6 weeks). Retrieved 2007-08-28. A rotatable 3D version of this photo is available here, and a sketch is available here.
  34. ^ 3D Pregnancy (Image from gestational age of 10 weeks). Retrieved 2007-08-28. A rotatable 3D version of this photo is available here, and a sketch is available here.
  35. ^ 3D Pregnancy (Image from gestational age of 20 weeks). Retrieved 2007-08-28. A rotatable 3D version of this photo is available here, and a sketch is available here.
  36. ^ 3D Pregnancy (Image from gestational age of 40 weeks). Retrieved 2007-08-28. A rotatable 3D version of this photo is available here, and a sketch is available here.
  37. ^ Dimitrova V, Markov D, Dimitrov R (2007). "[3D and 4D ultrasonography in obstetrics]" (in Bulgarian). Akush Ginekol (Sofiia) 46 (2): 31–40. PMID 17469450.
  38. ^ Sheiner E, Hackmon R, Shoham-Vardi I, et al. (2007). "A comparison between acoustic output indices in 2D and 3D/4D ultrasound in obstetrics". Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 29 (3): 326–8. doi:10.1002/uog.3933. PMID 17265534.
  39. ^ Rados C (January–February 2004). "FDA Cautions Against Ultrasound 'Keepsake' Images". FDA Consumer Magazine. http://www.fda.gov/FDAC/features/2004/104_images.html.
  40. ^ Kempley R (2003-08-09). "The Grin Before They Bear It; Peek-a-Boo: Prenatal Portraits for the Ultrasound Set". Washington Post. http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-279063.html.
  41. ^ Klusmann A, Heinrich B, Stöpler H, Gärtner J, Mayatepek E, Von Kries R (2005). "A decreasing rate of neural tube defects following the recommendations for periconceptional folic acid supplementation". Acta Paediatr. 94 (11): 1538–42. doi:10.1080/08035250500340396. PMID 16303691. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/openurl?genre=article&sid=nlm:pubmed&issn=0803-5253&date=2005&volume=94&issue=11&spage=1538. Retrieved 2008-01-20.
  42. ^ Stevenson RE, Allen WP, Pai GS, Best R, Seaver LH, Dean J, Thompson S (2000). "Decline in prevalence of neural tube defects in a high-risk region of the United States". Pediatrics 106 (4): 677–83. doi:10.1542/peds.106.4.677. PMID 11015508.
  43. ^ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2008). "Use of supplements containing folic acid among women of childbearing age—United States, 2007". MMWR Morb. Mortal. Wkly. Rep. 57 (1): 5–8. PMID 18185493.
  44. ^ McCutcheon, Susan (1984). Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way. Plume. ISBN 978-0-452-27659-8.
  45. ^ Salem, Jr. N, et al. Mechanisms of action of docosahexaenoic acid in the nervous system. Lipids, 2001. 36:945-59.
  46. ^ Haider BA, Bhutta ZA (2006). "Multiple-micronutrient supplementation for women during pregnancy". Cochrane Database Syst Rev (4): CD004905. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD004905.pub2. PMID 17054223.
  47. ^ Theobald HE (2007). "Eating for pregnancy and breast-feeding". J Fam Health Care 17 (2): 45–9. PMID 17476978.
  48. ^ Basile LA, Taylor SN, Wagner CL, Quinones L, Hollis BW (2007). "Neonatal vitamin D status at birth at latitude 32 degrees 72': evidence of deficiency". J Perinatol 27 (9): 568–71. doi:10.1038/sj.jp.7211796. PMID 17625571.
  49. ^ Kuoppala T, Tuimala R, Parviainen M, Koskinen T, Ala-Houhala M (1986). "Serum levels of vitamin D metabolites, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and alkaline phosphatase in Finnish women throughout pregnancy and in cord serum at delivery". Hum Nutr Clin Nutr 40 (4): 287–93. PMID 3488981.
  50. ^ Tarlow MJ; Alpar, H. O.; Brown, M. R. W. (August 1994). "Epidemiology of neonatal infections". J Antimicrob Chemother 34 (Suppl A): 43–52. doi:10.1093/jac/34.1.43. PMID 7844073.
  51. ^ How much weight will I put on during my pregnancy?
  52. ^ a b Clark DA, Chaput A, Tutton D (March 1986). "Active suppression of host-vs-graft reaction in pregnant mice. VII. Spontaneous abortion of allogeneic CBA/J x DBA/2 fetuses in the uterus of CBA/J mice correlates with deficient non-T suppressor cell activity". J. Immunol. 136 (5): 1668–75. PMID 2936806. http://www.jimmunol.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=2936806.
  53. ^ [1], Reena Shaji,MD.Obstetrics & Gynecology
  54. ^ * Day NL (1992). "The effects of prenatal exposure to alcohol." Alcohol Health and Research World, 16(2), 328–244.
  55. ^ Goodlett CR, Peterson SD (1995). "Sex differences in vulnerability to developmental spatial learning deficits induced by limited binge alcohol exposure in neonatal rats". Neurobiological Learning and Memory, 64(3), 265–275. PMID 8564380>
  56. ^ Streissguth AP, et al. (1994). "Prenatal alcohol and offspring development: the first fourteen years". Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 36(2), 89–99. PMID 7851285
  57. ^ M.P. Bermudez; A.I. Sanchez, G. Buela-Casal (2001). "Influence of the Gestation Period on Sexual Desire". Psychology in Spain 5 (1): 14–16.
  58. ^ Wing Yee Fok; Louis Yik-Si Chan, Pong Mo Yuen (October 2005). "Sexual behavior and activity in Chinese pregnant women". Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 84 (10): 934–938. doi:10.1111/j.0001-6349.2005.00743.x. PMID 16167907.
  59. ^ Reamy K; White SE, Daniell WC, Le Vine ES (June 1982). "Sexuality and pregnancy. A prospective study". J Reprod Med. 27 (6): 321–7. PMID 7120209.
  60. ^ Khamis MA; Mustafa MF, Mohamed SN, Toson MM (2007). "Influence of gestational period on sexual behavior". J Egypt Public Health Assoc. 2007 82 (1–2): 65–90. PMID 18217325.
  61. ^ "European Biotech Company Biocell Center Opens First U.S. Facility for Preservation of Amniotic Stem Cells in Medford, Massachusetts | Reuters". http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS166682+22-Oct-2009+PRN20091022. Retrieved 2010-01-11.
  62. ^ "Europe's Biocell Center opens Medford office – Daily Business Update – The Boston Globe". http://www.boston.com/business/ticker/2009/10/europes_biocell.html. Retrieved 2010-01-11.
  63. ^ "The Ticker - BostonHerald.com". http://www.bostonherald.com/business/general/view/20091022the_ticker. Retrieved 2010-01-11.
  64. ^ "Reproductive Health and Research Publications: Making Pregnancy Safer". World Health Organization Regional Office for South-East Asia. 2009. http://www.searo.who.int/EN/Section13/Section36/Section129/Section396_1450.htm. Retrieved 7 December 2009.
  65. ^ Mondelli,M.; Rossi,S.; Monti,E.; Aprile,I.; Caliandro,P.; Pazzaglia,C.; Romano,C.; Padua,L. (2007) Long term follow-up of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy: a cohort study and review of the literature. Electromyogr Clin Neurophysiol. 2007 Sep;47(6):259–71.
  66. ^ Diagnosis and classification of pelvic girdle pain disorders—Part 1: A mechanism based approach within a biopsychosocial framework Manual Therapy, Volume 12, Issue 2, May 2007, Peter B. O’Sullivan and Darren J. Beales.
  67. ^ European guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic girdle pain.Eur Spine J. 2008 Feb 8 Vleeming A, Albert HB, Ostgaard HC, Sturesson B, Stuge B.
  68. ^ Possible role of the long dorsal sacroiliac ligament in women with peripartum pelvic pain. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica Volume 81 Issue 5 Page 430-436, May 2002, Andry Vleeming, Haitze J. de Vries, Jan M. A Mens, Jan-Paul van Wingerden
  69. ^ Diagnosis and classification of pelvic girdle pain disorders—Part 1: A mechanism based approach within a biopsychosocial framework.Manual Therapy, Volume 12, Issue 2, May 2007, Pages 86–97 Peter B. O’Sullivan, and Darren J. Bealesa.

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Human pregnancy
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Planning Birth control · Pre-conception counseling
Conception Fertility awareness · Assisted reproductive technology (IVF, AI, Fertility medication)
Testing Home testing · Obstetric ultrasonography · Prenatal diagnosis · 3D ultrasound
Prenatal
Anatomy Endometrium · Placenta · Amniotic fluid · Amniotic sac
Development Gestational age · Fundal height · Human embryogenesis · Maternal physiological changes
Care Nutrition
Procedures Amniocentesis · Chorionic villus sampling
Childbirth
Preparation Lamaze · Bradley method · Nesting instinct · Adaptation to extrauterine life
Roles Midwife · Doula · Obstetrician · Men's roles
Delivery

Pelvimetry/Bishop score: Cervical effacement · Cervical dilation · Position

Unassisted childbirth · Home birth · Water birth · Natural childbirth

Rupture of membranes · Bloody show · Contraction · Childbirth positions · Presentation (Cephalic, Breech, Shoulder)
Postpartum Childcare · Congenital disorders · Sex after pregnancy
G/P Gravida/para/abortus · TPAL

: OBS

/

//,

, drug(/)

Family planning and Reproductive health
Rights Reproductive rights (Contraceptive security · Genital integrity)
Education Sex education · Pre-conception counseling · Genetic counseling
Planning Childfree · Parenting (Childbirth, Adoption, Foster care)
Implement Birth control · Safe sex
Health Men's · Women's (Vulvovaginal)
Pregnancy Maternal health · Obstetrics · Prenatal care · Pregnant patients' rights · Unintended pregnancy · Pregnancy options counseling · Abortion · Teenage pregnancy
Medicine Andrology · Gynaecology · Obstetrics and gynaecology · Reproductive endocrinology and infertility · Genitourinary medicine
Disorder Sexual dysfunction · Infertility (Assisted reproductive technology) · Reproductive system disease · Sexually transmitted disease (clinic, test)
Related navboxes

{{}} · {{}} · {{}} · {{}} · {{}} · {{}}

Human physiology and Endocrinology of Sexual reproduction
Menstrual/Estrous cycle Menstruation · Follicular phase · Ovulation · Luteal phase
Gametogenesis Spermatogenesis (spermatogonium, spermatocyte, spermatid, sperm) · Oogenesis (oogonium, oocyte, ootid, ovum) · Germ cell (gonocyte, gamete)
Human sexual behavior Sexual intercourse · Masturbation · Erection · Orgasm · Ejaculation · Insemination · Fertilisation/Fertility · Implantation · Pregnancy · Postpartum period · Mechanics of sex
Life span

Prenatal development/Sexual dimorphism/Sexual differentiation (Feminization, Virilization) · Puberty (Gonadarche, Pubarche, Menarche, Adrenarche) ·

Maternal age / Paternal age · Climacteric (Menopause, Andropause)
Egg (biology) Ovum · Oviposition · Oviparity · Ovoviviparity · Vivipary
Reproductive endocrinology and infertility Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis · Andrology · Hormone
Breast Thelarche · Lactation · Breastfeeding

: ♀ FRS

//

//, /

/, drug (//)

: ♂ MRS

//

//, /

, drug (/)

: BRE

/

//

Human Development: BiologicalPsychological Childhood Infancy Neonate/Newborn Play age Toddlerhood Primary school Secondary school Preadolescence Adolescence Adult Puberty Preteen Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Preschooler Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article) Child development stages.svg (click on a period to see article)
Pre- and perinatal
Biological Prenatal development
Psychological Pre- and perinatal psychology
Infancy
Biological Infant
Psychological Infant and child psychology
Childhood
Biological Child development · Child development stages · Toddler
Psychological Infant and child psychology · Preadolescence
Adolescence
Biological Puberty
Psychological Youth development · Adolescent psychology
Young adulthood
Psychological Young adult (psychology)
Middle adulthood
Biological Middle age
Maturity
Biological Ageing · Senescence
Psychological Old age
Legal and general definitions Minor (law) · Infancy · Child · Childhood · Adolescence · Age of majority · Adult
Theorists and theories Bowlbyattachment · Brofenbrennerecological systems · Eriksonpsychosocial dev. · Freud—psychosexual dev. · Kohlbergmoral dev. · Piagetcognitive dev. · Vygotskycultural-historical psych.
Sex
Physiological events Erection · Insemination · Menstruation · Orgasm (Female and Male ejaculation) · Pregnancy · Sexual arousal
Health and education Birth control · Condom · Postorgasmic illness syndrome · Reproductive medicine (Andrology · Gynaecology · Urology) · Safe sex · Sex education · Sex surrogate · Sex therapy · Sexual dysfunction (Erectile dysfunction · Hypersexuality) · Sexually transmitted disease · Sexual medicine
Identity Gender identity · Sexual identity · Sexual orientation
Law Age of consent · Criminal transmission of HIV · Incest · Obscenity · Public indecency · Rape · Sexual abuse · Sexual assault · Sexual harassment · Sexual misconduct · Sexual violence
History Feminist Sex Wars · History of erotic depictions · Sexual revolution
Relationships and society Anarchism and sex/love · Family planning · Homophobia · Marriage · Paraphilia · Polyamory · Promiscuity · Queer theory · Religion and sexuality · Romance · Sexual abstinence · Sexual attraction · Sexual capital · Sexual ethics · Sexual objectification
By country Albania · China · Japan
Human sexual activities Anal–oral sex · Anal sex · Ass to mouth · Bareback · BDSM · Cock-and-ball torture · Creampie · Cum shot · Cybersex · Dirty talk · Facial · Fingering · Fisting · Gang bang · Group sex · Masturbation · Mechanics of sex · Non-penetrative sex (Mammary intercourse · Petting · Handjob · Sumata) · Oral sex · Oral stimulation of nipples · Orgasm control · Pompoir · Quickie · Sex position (List) · Sexual intercourse (Foreplay) · Sexual sublimation · Snowballing · Tea bag · Venus Butterfly
Sex industry Adult video game · Child, Female and Male "sex tourism" · Erotica · Pornography · Prostitution · Sex doll · Sex shop · Sex toy · Strip club
Animal sexual behaviour · Human sexuality · Sexology · Sexual slang

Categories: Pregnancy | Birth control | Reproduction | Obstetrics | Family | Fertility

 

The above information uses material from Wikipedia and is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.
Some facts may not have been fully verified for accuracy. [Disclaimers]
This page was last archived by our server on Tue Jul 27 15:02:13 2010. [ refresh local cache ]
Displaying this page or its contents does not use any Wikimedia Foundation's resources.
The owners of this site proudly support the Wikimedia Foundation.


Downing diet soda tied to risk of premature birth - Reuters
reuters.com
Downing diet soda tied to risk of premature birth - Reuters
Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:39:17 GMT+00:00
Reuters While this study is counter to the weight of the scientific evidence demonstrating that low-calorie sweeteners are safe for use in pregnancy , research has ... Diet Soda and Pregnancy Don't Mix The Stir (blog)
Google News Search: Pregnancy,
Wed Jul 28 15:19:43 2010
300px Pregnancylaborsigns jpg
pregnancy.lovetoknow.com
300px Pregnancylabors​igns jpg
200px x 300px | 40.10kB

[source page]

Preterm labor is when labor starts before a baby is fully developed so moms need to be in tune with what could be early labor

Yahoo Images Search: Pregnancy,
Mon Jul 26 08:29:44 2010
 Pregnancy Week 40 Part Two | Moms Health
moms.healthyflag.com
Pregnancy Week 40 Part Two | Moms Health

admin

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:16:32 GM

25 Responses to . Pregnancy. Week 40 Part Two . ilovenbcnews, on July 26th, 2010 at 8:00 am Said: you burp like a man , i love that! shanti81, on July 26th, 2010 at 8:47 am Said: hey Emma How you been. You look kinda down smile sweetie ...

Google Blogs Search: Pregnancy,
Mon Jul 26 00:32:39 2010
Pregnancy??
Q. Hey, we are TTC our second child. I have a 28 day cycle with ovulation generally on day 14 or 15. Our first child kind of happened without planning so my question is in regaurds to my cycle, what are the chances of sex on day 6 leading to pregnancy?
Asked by flaminfortune - Fri Nov 24 20:42:46 2006 - - 6 Answers - 1 Comments

A. Not that common, the sperm die about 4 days after sex and by the time your egg drops they will have all been long dead.
Answered by Amber Marie - Fri Nov 24 20:46:00 2006

Yahoo Answers Search: Pregnancy,
Thu Jul 29 06:14:16 2010