Parul Christian, a member of the research team stated that they were given the opportunity of following offerings of the women participating in the randomized trials of certain nutrients like iron and folic acid for assessing their neurocognitive properties and outcomes. Through keen observation, the researchers discovered that kids of the women receiving the two supplements during pregnancy secured higher marks in the tests of motor skills, organization skills and intelligence compared to the kids of women who did not have those supplements.

Christian mentioned that through this study they wanted to show the world that prenatal use of supplements of folic acid and iron can significantly impact the motor skills and intellectual levels of the offspring. According to Christian, prenatal consumption of these two nutritional supplements also helped in enhancing the executive functioning of the offspring. Both folic acid and iron are important nutrients for ensuring proper nerve development of the developing fetus. The researchers feel this feature of the two nutrients contributed to the result of the study.

Supplemental children only secured 2.4 points more than the non-supplemental ones in nonverbal intelligence tests. This difference in scores may appear to be quite small when assumed in perspective of a small group; however, if we consider the entire nation or the world population, the difference is quite significant.

Keep the feet elevated:

Whenever possible, lie down keeping your feet elevated at the heart level; you can use pillows for resting your feet. Make sure that your legs stay uncrossed. Stay in this position for around 30 minutes. Doing this 3 to 4 times in a day will help you in bringing back the volume of your feet to normal and will also reduce the pain associated with the swelling.

Wear comfortable footwear:

Whenever you go out during your pregnancy, you must wear comfortable footwear. Wearing tight shoes hampers the blood circulation in the feet and result in swelling of the feet. A pregnant woman must always wear roomy and low-heeled shoes.

Exercise:

Exercising helps in reducing the swelling by improving the blood circulation in your feet. Pregnant women must make sure that they exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes every day; the exercise regimen of a pregnant woman can include a walk, some swimming laps or any other prenatal exercise.

Stay hydrated:

If you drink adequate amount of water every day, it will help you in reducing the fluid buildup in your body. According to medical experts, pregnant women must drink a minimum of 3 liters of water every day. Drinking enough water will also relieve pregnant women from other complications like fatigue, dehydration and constipation.

Support:

A large number of midwives and obstetricians prescribe compression or support hose for the pregnant women suffering from swelling of feet. A compression hose will work by putting pressure on legs of the pregnant woman, which in turn will reduce the fluid retention in her lower body.

This massage technique is based on the theories of Ayurveda. The primary goal of all ayurvedic therapies is balancing the body, spirit and mind of the person undergoing the therapy. According to the ancient transcriptions of India, Indian head massage was first used more than 5,000 years back.

Indian head massage also involves application of acupressure. During the massage, the acupressure points of the pregnant woman’s neck, shoulder and head is treated, which helps in flushing out the tension. Head massage generally continues for 30 to 60 minutes and often includes use of natural oils like olive oil, sweet almond oil, sesame oil etc. This not only relaxes the body and mind of the pregnant woman, but also nourishes her hair and cleanses the pores of her scalp.

Women in their first trimester however should avoid use of any scented oil during the head massage. This is because inhaling such oils might trigger nausea in these women. There are also some oils that are unsafe both for the growing fetus and the mother; for instance fennel oil, juniper oil and jasmine oil; these oils induces uterine contractions and can lead to miscarriage. So pregnancy head massage should not include use of these essential oils. As there’s so much confusion about which oil is good and which oil is bad during pregnancy, you can ask the therapist to avoid using oils for head massage during pregnancy to ensure safety.

The recent study found that the stress hormone cortisol is present in assessable amount as early as the seventeenth week of gestation. They have also calculated the amount of cortisol in mother’s blood. The studies measured that the amount of cortisol was higher in the amniotic fluid when mother had higher level of cortisol in her blood.

Cortisol helps body to handle stressful situation appropriately, but in its access is harmful. The exceed exposure of cortisol in adult causes to illness, exhaustion and depression, etc. In addition this leads to bad health conditions, heart diseases, ulcers and even the high blood pressure.

The cognitive function of the baby is affected due to the stress even in their later life. The study presented that the infants having high level of hormone cortisol exposure on utero had comparatively poorer IQs at 18 months. The increase in level of stress may also increase the level of Developing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

It does not indicate that even the little amount of stress can harmful for baby. Just don’t forget to do the regular and healthy exercise with some relaxation that could lower your stress level. Specific course for the pregnancy teaches the relaxation process for you benefit.

1.    Missed Period

A missed period is often the most early sign of pregnancy. This symptom serves as the precursor for other symptoms. Some women may have a lighter menstruation in comparison with their regular period.

2.    ‘Feeling’ Pregnant

Some women have a sort of a sixth sense when it comes to pregnancy. This sort of intuition may prove accurate. Women may tend to feel tired, lightheaded and moody. Some women may experience heartburn and constipation. Trips to the bathroom may also increase.

3.    Tenderness of Breasts

One of the very early symptoms of pregnancy is breast tenderness. Breasts tend to get swollen. They also become sore. This symptom is noticeable while sleeping, exercising, or while taking a shower. Pregnancy prepares the breasts for milk production. Hormonal activity increases. The nipples may become sensitive. They may also become dark in color.

4.    Fatigue

Fatigue and exhaustion are common symptoms of pregnancy. You may find it hard to step out of the bed or you may go to bed sooner than usual. Exercise may seem like a burden. Routine chores such as shopping may make you dizzy. During pregnancy, the body goes through umpteen changes, leading to exhaustion.

5.    Frequent Urination

Pregnant women have more frequent trips to the bathroom. Frequent urination results from swelling of the uterus, which puts additional pressure on the urinary bladder. Pregnancy also causes an increase in the processing of body fluids by the urinary bladder and kidneys.

6.    Nausea

Nausea is another very early symptom of pregnancy. It may occur in combination with vomiting. They may occur in the first week of pregnancy. Nausea is widely experienced, especially in the mornings.

7.    Dizziness and Fainting

Dizziness and fainting are common during pregnancy. Climbing stairs or waiting your turn at a grocery store would seem like a never-ending task. When the uterus grows in size, the arteries in the legs compress. This causes the blood pressure to fall. This causes dizziness. Low levels of blood sugar can also cause faintness.

8.    Craving for Specific Foods

Pregnant women may show a strong craving for certain food. Each food craving varies from woman to woman. Consuming a vitamin supplement can ward off these cravings. Some pregnant women show aversion to certain foods.


Here are some of those irrational fears that are known to grip women, time and again; and here are the reasons why you needn’t worry about these pregnancy complications.

Miscarriage:

It is unlikely that your pregnancy will end in a miscarriage. Most pregnancies in the world will only lead to the birth of healthy babies. Less than 20% of women would be prone to miscarriages. Most miscarriages are known to occur during the first few months of pregnancy. During this time, most women might be completely unaware of the fact that they were expecting; and what they’ll end up seeing will almost be like a period. Once your baby’s heartbeat is evident, which will happen around 6 to 8 weeks later, your risk of a miscarriage will also drop.

Miscarriages are often caused due to an abnormality in the chromosomes; and this might cause for the fetus to not develop normally. Remember, a miscarriage is not something you did or caused. It’s unavoidable if it has to happen. You can, however, lower the risks by not smoking or drinking while you’re carrying.

Morning Sickness:

Morning sickness is, by far, one of the most common pregnancy complications or problems that could arise. Some women might fear that their babies aren’t getting enough food to eat owing to their terrible bouts of morning sickness. Fact of the matter is that babies are great parasites (pardon the metaphor). They’re known to absorb all the nutrients that they need from the food that they get. If you’re dehydrated and have morning sickness to deal with alongside, you could try and get your doc involved. Ensure that you’ve been taking your prenatal vitamins in time; and this would be the best that you could do. Space out your meals, and have them on a frequent and regular basis.

Eating Wrong:

A lot of women today worry about the food they consume and its effects on the baby. If you’re the type of woman who finds herself agonizing over the simplest questions, then chances are that you’re worried and anxious beyond wits. You needn’t be spending hours agonizing over the health and wellbeing of your little wonder. You could try and sum up a list of do’s and don’ts from your doctor. This would help you keep a tab on what’s healthy and what’s not. Think of it this way; chances are that your mom didn’t know half of the things you are aware of today, and want to do to ensure the safety and health of your fetus. In spite of not knowing as much, she had you; and look, you turned out pretty well!

Birth Defect:

A large chunk of the mommy-to-be community is said to share a common fear – the fear of your baby having a birth defect. If you’re part of the club, chances are that you’d up suffocating yourself to death, by holding onto your breath too long during each prenatal test. In most cases, your baby’s going to be safe. Only 4% of children across the globe are said to be getting affected by birth defects. Of these, most of them will be the extremely serious conditions like Down’s syndrome and other such abnormalities. Pop your prenatal vitamins in time and do so regularly, so that your baby remains in great shape.

Most women individually decide whether an episiotomy is required or not. However, this decision must be postponed until crowning. The doctor can assess the perineum and offer a reasonable solution. A slow delivery that is controlled is crucial for the perineum to remain intact. This reduces the chances of laceration. It is important to minimize fetal distress. The woman and her partner must closely follow the doctor’s recommendations on when to push and when not to. Perineal massage reduces the risk of laceration. The need for episiotomy is also reduced.

Perineal massage causes the perineum to become elastic and supple. This reduces the risk of perineal tearing. An episiotomy, too, would not be required. Perineal massage prepares the mother for sensations of pressure and stretching, when the head of the baby begins to crown. Becoming aware of these feelings is crucial to the mother’s relaxation. This can also lead to a quicker birth. Tension in the body will delay the birth process.

Following a perineal massage, the mother may experience new emotions. You can always discuss these feelings with your partner. This can lead to mutual appreciation. Some of the most common emotions include fear, love, excitement and uncertainty.

Perineal massage prior to labor eases the muscles around the head of the baby when it begins to crown. It benefits the mother as well as the child. The perineum is highly sensitive during childbirth. Hence, perineal massage is always advisable.

Perineal massage can be performed by the mother or her partner. There are several tips that partners should keep in mind:

• Good listening skills
• Enjoy the time of being together.
• Take responsibility for household chores.
• Communication is vital. Discuss your feelings, and clarify all doubts.
• Pamper your partner.

There are several things that you should keep in mind before a perineal massage:

• Wash your hands and choose a comfortable place, such as bedroom or bathroom.
• Be seated in a comfortable position. A bath with lukewarm water will do wonders for relaxation of the perineum.
• Use a lubricant that is water soluble such as KY Jelly. Alternatively, you can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or Vitamin E oil on the hands and perineum.
• The thumb needs to enter the vagina slightly.
• Apply little pressure toward the rectum till a sensation of tingling and burning is felt.
• Take a deep breath
• Massage the sides of the vagina, and follow a U-shaped movement
• Repeat for one more time.

First Trimester

Month 1:
Fertilization takes place. The ovum descends to the uterus. Cell division takes place with the embryonic disc formation. The embryo has three layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The uterus has a special cell layer that forms the placenta. It is through the placenta that nutritive substances are passed from mother to baby. Cells form amnion which encapsulates the embryo. The nervous system is formed. By the end of the first month, the length of an embryo is one-fourth of an inch. The embryo has a crescent shape.

Month 2:
The size of the embryo increases. There is development of bone and muscles. Face and neck are formed. Features of a human being are developed. The forehead gets prominent. The brain develops at a fast pace. There is elongation of the limp buds. Cartilage and muscles tend to develop. There is formation of the sex organs.

Month 3:
The fetal period begins. There is further differentiation of sex. The sexual organs become prominent. Foundation for teeth is laid down. Vocal cords are developed. There is activity in the digestive system. Cells of the stomach secrete fluid. Liver begins to secrete bile. Kidneys start to function, and the urine begins to seep into the amniotic fluid. There is spontaneous development of arms, legs, fingers, and shoulders.

Second Trimester

Month 4:
There is rapid development of the lower part of the body. Straightening of the back takes place. Hands and feet are formed. The skin becomes dark red because of the thin layer of skin. Muscles become mature, and reflexes get more active. There is a lot of movement of arms and legs.

Month 5:
The fetus begins to develop skin. There is development of the sweat and sebaceous glands. Nails, hair, toes and fingers begin to develop. The fetus weighs nearly one pound.

Month 6:
Complete formation of eyes takes place. The eyelids begin to open. Appearance of taste buds on the tongue.

Third Trimester

Month 7:
Organism is capable of independent living. The complete brain is covered by cerebral hemispheres. Each fetus is capable of variegated responses. The fetus weighs nearly three pounds.

Month 8 and 9:
Different organs are fully developed. The wrinkled skin is smoothed by the body fat. Reddish pigmentation of the skin disappears. Heart rate increases. Excess waste products are eliminated by the digestive system. On birth, the baby excretes meconium. The uterus experiences violent contractions, leading to the birth of the baby.

This is the summary of fetal development week by week.

While a woman is pregnant, there is a surge in the production of female hormones. These hormones are assigned the task of ensuring that everything functions normally. These hormones affect the intestinal movements of the pregnant. More often than not, these movements are slowed down.

Progesterone is a predominant female hormone. It helps in muscle relaxation. The bowel’s outer wall comprises muscle. When it relaxes, the movement of food and bodily waste is impeded.

To avoid constipation during pregnancy, women should include fiber in their diet. High intake of liquids is also recommended. This ensures smooth functioning of the intestines.

The following are some of the signs of constipation during pregnancy:

• A gap of four days between bowel movements
• Hard feces
• Difficult in passing feces
• A general feeling of discomfort during bowel movement
• Bleeding of the rectum
• Abdominal pain
• Problems during childbirth

In rare scenarios, these symptoms may indicate presence of a more serious condition. Consult a medical practitioner to be on the safe side.

The following are some of the remedies for treating constipation during pregnancy:

• High quantity of fiber intake
• Plenty of liquids
• Regular exercise

Laxative can be used effectively to treat constipation. However, it should be carried out only on recommendation of a doctor.
Fiber is crucial for bowel movements because it makes the intestines work efficiently. Fiber absorbs fluids, which ensures that the feces remain soft. The foods mentioned below are rich in fiber content. Pregnant women should include these food everyday.

• Fresh Fruits
• Leafy vegetables
• Whole grain bread
• Cereals
• Prunes

A lack of liquid in the diet can spell doom for digestion. The process of digestion is slowed down due to lack of fluids. The intestines are hampered, and the feces transform into a hard mass.

There is no recommended limit for fluid intake. However, six tumblers of water are sufficient for pregnant women. Juices, tea, and coffee will also add to the liquid intake.

Mild exercise causes stimulation of the bowel. This leads to better digestion. Pregnant women can walk or swim for thirty minutes. This will greatly benefit the child as well.