Pregnancy Overview A pregnancy is divided into three phases, called trimesters. Each trimester has its own significant milestones. The first trimester is the most fragile period, during which all major organs and systems are formed. Most birth defects and miscarriages occur during the first trimester. During the second and third trimester, the fetus is fully formed and grows and matures rapidly. The trimesters are divided as follows: First trimester: 0-12 weeks Second trimester: 12-24 weeks Third trimes...

Pregnancy A pregnancy is divided into three phases, called trimesters. Each trimester has its own significant milestones. Listed in the directory below, you will find additional information regarding the three phases of pregnancy, for which we have provided a brief overview. Pregnancy Overview Anatomy: Fetus in Utero The First Trimester (0 - 12 Weeks) The Second Trimester (12 - 24 Weeks) The Third Trimester (24 - 40 Weeks) The Pregnant Mother Hormones During Pregnancy Weight Gain During Pregnancy Nutrit...

Managing Hemorrhoids and Varicose Veins in Pregnancy Hemorrhoids and varicose veins might seem to be two different, unrelated problems, but they are actually quite similar. And, they are a discomfort experienced by many women, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. What are hemorrhoids and varicose veins? Both hemorrhoids and varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins. These veins are often in the legs, but they also can form in other parts of your body, including the rectum, where they are call...

Pregnancy and Posture Why is good posture important in pregnancy? Much back pain in pregnancy is related to the strain on your back from the weight of your growing baby. Using proper posture can help prevent and even relieve some of the pain. Here are some tips to help you maintain good posture in various positions. What is proper posture during pregnancy? When your body is in alignment—when you use proper posture—you can imagine a straight line running from your ears to your shoulders, and to your hips...

Pregnancy and Skin Changes For many women, pregnancy brings glowing skin, rosy cheeks, and shiny hair. But others can experience skin changes that aren’t so attractive, including acne, dark spots, and stretch marks. Here are some of the common skin conditions in pregnancy, along with some practical tips on managing those that can be troublesome. Acne Increased blood flow and oil production are the factors behind the radiant pregnancy glow. But that radiance sometimes comes with a price, as the increased...

Tips for Traveling Moms-to-Be Today’s society is increasingly mobile, and the demands of career and family often require travel during a woman’s pregnancy. Here are some tips and guidance for safe travels while you’re pregnant. Be sure to consider multiple factors when making your travel decisions, including the distance, travel time to your destination, and stress involved. A five-hour trip by car with several stops may turn out to be shorter and less stressful than a two-hour plane trip with long preb...

We’re Pregnant–Tips for the Expectant Dad The words “We’re pregnant” sound familiar these days. More than ever, men are actively involved throughout the pregnancy experience. The term expectant father really fits, as men support, worry, and plan right along with their pregnant partners. Some of the more common experiences for expectant dads are included here. What he needs Being an expectant father is exciting, but it can be challenging. It calls for men to take on new roles while also keeping everythin...

First Trimester Fatigue Is it common to be so tired in the first trimester of pregnancy? Feeling dog tired, can’t summon the energy to do much of anything, and craving your bed? For many women, the extreme tiredness of the first trimester is quite a surprise. And it’s an especially hard transition for those who are normally go-getters with lots of energy. Women who usually need only six hours of sleep at night often find they need nearly double that during these first weeks of pregnancy. And, for others...

Headaches in Early Pregnancy Nearly all women have occasional headaches, but having a headache in pregnancy is not fun. And, managing headaches is especially tricky in the first trimester when you should avoid medications. Whether your headache is from tension or is a full-blown migraine, there are some things you should know. What causes headaches in pregnancy? The exact cause of a headache isn’t always clear. In the first trimester, changing hormone levels and blood volume may play a role. A dull, ove...

Pregnancy and Heartburn Chances are good that you’re one of more than three-fourths of pregnant women who experience the churning and burning of heartburn or acid indigestion. It typically hits somewhere in the second or third trimester, and it can be miserable. Heartburn doesn’t really mean your heart is burning, but it’s a good description of the discomfort that begins behind the breastbone and moves upward to the neck and throat. It can last as long as two hours, and it’s often worse after eating. Of...