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Showing posts with label pregnancy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pregnancy. Show all posts

Odd Things You Might Experience During Pregnancy

With each pregnancy, a woman experiences something different.  Her first pregnancy is definitely not like the one she will have in the future, nor will her spouse react the same way he did with every pregnancy. Many things happen during this very exciting and at times difficult period in their lives.

There are many things that occur with most pregnant women that once the baby is born are forgotten.  A first-time pregnant mom may feel left out of the loop, because when she asks, “Did you ever feel this way…”  The veteran may say, “No.”  Meanwhile, everyone around her will say, “Yes, you did.  Remember when…”

Doctors, family and friends may not have experienced or heard of your symptoms, but it doesn’t mean that you are weird.  Remember there is someone in this world that may have experienced the same symptom, just never bothered to mention it.  The following information will help you feel more at ease with some of the strangest things that may happen during your pregnancy experience.

“What’s that smell?” 

Even though no one else around you smells what you smell it doesn’t mean that those scents don’t exist at least not to you.  You may have a craving for peanut butter and suddenly smell it or a sudden interest in a hamburger and there is no fast food restaurant near you.  Strange, but it happens.  The least your mate or relative could do is ease your craving by getting it for you, rather discussing what you do or don’t smell.

“I saw what appeared before my eyes to look like bugs with flashes of silver.”   

This may happen to you.  Don’t be alarmed it may be a sign of something insignificant, but then again something very serious.  It could mean that you are weary or that you may have a fever.  It is best to buy a pregnancy medical book and make a call to your doctor if you experience anything that affects your eyesight.

“Everything around me seems to be so noisy lately.”

Pregnancy tends to make women more emotional then normal.  Hormones contribute to the mood swings, noise sensitivity, and so much more.  It is better to avoid noisy places and other sounds that may have once had no effect on you, now annoy you.

“I have been having dreams about my pregnancy.”

Those of you who may be interested in dream interpretation may find the interpretation of a pregnancy dream, according to dreammoods.com to put you at ease.  Here is a portion of the interpretation, “Women in the first trimester of their pregnancy tend to dream of tiny creatures, fuzzy animals, flowers, fruit and water. In the second trimester, dreams will reflect your anxieties about being a good mother and concerns about possible complications with the birth. Dreams of giving birth to a non-human baby are also common during this period of the pregnancy. Finally, in the third trimester, dreams (may) consist of your own mother. As your body changes and grows, dreams of whales, elephants and dinosaurs and other larger animals may also start appearing at this stage.”

“I think I have turned psychic since being pregnant, I just think of things and they often come to past.”

You can take a mini-quiz to find out if you are indeed psychic or always have been it’s just their abilities may be heightened since the pregnancy.  Check around the web and include keywords related to pregnancy and psychic abilities.

“My mate seems to be gaining weight and is sick often.”

This might occur with a mate who is nervous about the pregnancy.  He may also feel the need to stay close to you and baby-- offer protection; therefore, he isn't as active as he once was.

“My mate doesn’t come around me as much, nor does he give me much affection.  At times he is just as irritable as me, if not more.”

He may have his own share of concerns such as: money challenges, life changes, etc.  Some men will discuss what bothers them when asked while others will stay mum, because they don't want to upset their expectant partners.

“Everything people have been saying to me lately has been annoying to me.”

With hormonal changes also comes a lack of wanting to be around people with some pregnant people.  It can be quite a challenge for some moms to maintain a conversation or receive affection when a baby is moving within them along with uncomfortable symptoms related to their pregnancies.

“I watch television shows now that I wasn’t interested in before I was pregnant.”

Depending on one's mood during pregnancy you will find yourself taking up interests you may not have considered before.  Preferences in movies, places to visit and even exercise might change.  Embrace the new interests just so long as they don't harm you or baby.

“I laugh way more than I did before pregnancy.”

 Being pregnant for some women is a happy time particularly if they always wanted to be pregnant.  Also, hormones may be playing a part.  Better to be content than weepy.  If the emotional swings become too much for you to handle, share your behavior with your doctor.

“I am so forgetful.”

Bodily changes will affect the mind.  Many pregnant women complain about this and unfortunately work performance is affected at times.  Write more notes to remind you of key events.  Set alarms if necessary and reach out for assistance from others to keep you on task.

“I hate the way people smell around me.”

Once again related to hormones and if the smells are overwhelming, try a diffuser or other air fresheners to offset the offensive odors.

“Everything seems like it hurts mentally and physically.” 

Past issues have a way of showing up during pregnancy.  Loved ones or friends behaving rudely and having to take on way too much responsibility while being pregnant will affect your mind, body and spirit.  Re-evaluate what you are doing and let go of some people, places and things that are negatively impacting you.  If you care about your baby, you will protect him or her from the stress.  Delegate responsibilities whenever possible and learn to say, "No" to needy individuals.

“I stay up late.”

It happens.  You will have to train yourself to go to bed on time.  Notice your routines before bed, could they be keeping you awake?  Consider this, your baby might want to stay up late when he or she arrives too. 

“I eat a lot.”

A baby growing inside of you will need as much nutrients as you consume.  If you were a healthy eater before then you just might find yourself eating more.  But if not, it is still okay; however, keep in mind just because you are with child you don't have to eat a lot.  Babies are content just so long as they are being fed.  There is nothing wrong with eating for one, the baby still receives necessary nutrients in order to grow.  Stay consistent with meals, eat less but more frequent.  So rather than eat three meals a day, break them down into five and eat your heavier meals during the day rather than at night. Choose healthy meals, not junk food.  Learn more about gestational diabetes.

“I don’t eat enough.”

If you feel you don't, then consider additional meals.  Discuss with doctor.

“I am more particular about the way I look, my house looks and everyone around me looks.  I feel like I am cleaning and organizing often.”

This happens as it gets closer to the delivery date for some moms.  It is quite natural for a mother to want to prepare for the baby's arrival.  So if you are finding yourself wanting to get much done, enlist the help of those around you.  Don't lift anything heavy and stay off of things like step stools to avoid a fall. 

PLEASE NOTE: 

This blog entry was not prepared by a medical professional.  Therefore, you should make an appointment with your doctor to access your condition.  The article is only written to inform others’ about some pregnancy experiences that may be similar to your own.

Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry and maintains this blog.

Sometimes, Pregnancy Is Rubbish. And That’s OK

Sometimes, Pregnancy Is Rubbish. And That’s OK: Motherhood blog based on book entitled, When Mothers Cry by self-published author Nicholl McGuire. Parenting, relationship, women issues discussed.

5 Unflattering Things Expectant Dads Need to Know About Their Pregnant Partners

You might be going through much since the news, "We're pregnant."  Well-wishers just don't know how much things have changed mentally, spiritually, and physically for you.  You may be experiencing some of your partner's pain, mood swings, and other things.  There are thoughts going through your head and they aren't all positive.  So what does an expectant dad does with the mounting pregnancy related issues?  First, try your best to be empathetic, step up to the plate and help when you can, and realize that things will not go back to the way they were prior to having your child or children.  Grieve this fact and move on.  Stop being tempted to live in the past and hope for a similar future.  Your hormonal partner is going through much and you will need to have a support system that will keep you stable.  Consider a team of people who "have been there and done that."  They are available in hospitals, churches, schools, nonprofit groups, etc.  Perform research and include your city and state in the search engine to see what helpful resources are available for troubled expectant dads and their challenging pregnant wives/mates.   

So what might you ponder now when it comes to your pregnant partner?

1.  The expectant mom doesn't always like "that guy" who got her pregnant.  You aren't the same in her eyes at times especially when you act just as irritable as she does.  Of course, you know it takes two to argue, but she is thinking, "What did I do?  What did I do?  Who is this guy really and is he going to be a good dad?"   Sometimes the only thing that is on a pregnant woman's mind is food and pain.  Think about those times when you weren't yourself when you were hungry or having your share of aches.

2.  You're right, "She's crazy."  So what are you going to do about it?  Act crazy too?  Go find something to do to let off steam i.e.) bike ride, exercise, visit your mother/relatives, window shop, sit on a park bench and think about the positive.  View your photo albums and think about good times, but don't wish for them.  Use the present moments to make you stronger, wiser and a better human being.  Work a little later on some days if you just don't have the energy to come home right away. Visit a favorite place or read a good book.  The more you talk to her when she is emotional, sit on your behind when you know things need to be done around the home, her mind and yours will go places they have never gone before.  Too much of anyone or anything isn't good whether pregnant or not.  Lose the pride, you don't have to win any argument--leave her alone for awhile.  Offer to do some things around the place if she doesn't mind--some pregnant women might have issues with the way their mates do things.  You can always put your headphones on and watch TV or listen to music to avoid issues before they begin.  Mind your own business or care for children if you already have a couple.  Take them out of the home and let them run and rip in the park or elsewhere instead of keeping them around their mother when you know she is having a tough time.

3.  Weird things happen with her body, so when she isn't in the mood for a little affection and whatever else, be understanding.  Exercise some self control and focus on the fact you are both having a child.  Learn that your needs will not always be top priority anymore.  Distract yourself by doing some things that will keep you out of trouble.  Chatting with hot chics, talking about them to a woman who already has issues with her increasing weight, or acting more interested in every female but your pregnant partner will only cause more problems for you.  Think about your future child and what kind of example you are setting for him or her.  Cheating and lying will cause confusion and stress on the baby.  Most women sense when their men just aren't being truthful about their whereabouts and with who they were spending time.

4.  Don't be surprised if she or you becomes verbally or physically abusive especially if you are still using recreational drugs, drinking alcohol or smoking.  Mind-altering substances do impact the relationship.  In addition, if there is no healthy outlet for stress, an unsupportive network of family and friends, and other issues, you or she might be tempted to cross the line.  Notice what your trigger buttons are and avoid the drama by focusing on doing things that are positive, peaceful, and prosperous.  Get another job if you feel the need rather than complain about money.  Schedule some extracurricular activities if need be.  Attend church services.  Converse with your partner about how you feel.  Recognize the fact that she is changing and she just might not return to that person you once fell in love with.  Share your experiences with the family physician during the next prenatal appointment.  The doctor might be able to determine what is wrong with you and your partner or provide a resource.

5.  You aren't the only person who doesn't understand or like all that comes with your pregnant mate.  Chances are co-workers and relatives noticed changes too.  However, a family gossip session isn't going to help matters.  Stay loyal to your partner and offer to help her cope.  Maybe she needs bigger clothes, a place to rest her swollen feet, favorite snacks, help with chores and children, time off from work, etc. whatever the issues, address them in kind and loving ways.  If things are a bit too much and you simply can't handle the hormonal woman, then don't beat yourself or her up about it.  Speak with a doctor or therapist on or offline.  If you aren't mentally strong yourself, you may have to consider time away so that you can get your head together before the baby is born.  There may be some opposition about your decision coming from family and friends, but it is always better to leave than to stay and abuse.  If you are having crazy or dark thoughts, you can always express your concern for her safety and baby and then seek professional assistance on your own.

To all the men who read this, stay strong and God bless.  To the women who care about them and others, spread this message.  Keep the faith and always think about the well-being of your offspring when it comes to making major life decisions.

Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry and other books.   

Baby Anticipation...Some Things to Put in Perspective

For those who are thinking about having a baby and those who are watching the calendar ever so closely until it's time for delivery, you just might want to go down the checklist of your mind on what your needs are, your partner's, and of course the baby's.  Things might look a bit different since the last time you thought about certain things related to having a baby.

You have heard and witnessed how things change in relationships, on the job, and in other ways once babies are here.  As much as one would like to think things won't change much, they will greatly sooner or later.  So let's go down a mental checklist of how you might be feeling and what more you need to be doing before baby is arrives.

1.  If you aren't a parent yet, then don't rush it.  Sure, the pressure will be on if you are with someone who really wants a baby, but you know what is happening in your life right now and if the idea of having a baby is really grating on your nerves (or your partner's), don't agree to bring one into the world half-heartedly.  Protect yourself or you will be surprised one day whether you or your lover is ready or not!

2.  If you are already pregnant and awaiting the arrival, take it easy.  There is nothing to worry about because even if you messed up badly (bad selection in a mate, became ill due to not following doctor's orders, got into an accident, hurt yourself, baby issues...) and you felt the world was coming to an end, there will always be someone somewhere willing to help clean your mistakes up.  Reach out for help whatever the issue.  The worse thing you can do is keep secrets and wish later you hadn't.

3.  There will be those who will be supportive of whatever you do and others who won't.  Whatever your actions or inactions, you have to know who is friend and who is foe in your circle.  Keep those who stand by you close and others who are against you distant.  Don't reveal so much about your baby related thoughts especially when you aren't completely confident within.

4.  Don't make yourself love someone who doesn't love, respect and appreciate you.  Sometimes the dynamics of relationships change drastically when babies show up.  You might feel unloved, devalued, and more, when this happens, think strongly about living with a partner.  It will be stressful enough caring for a child (middle of the night wake up routines, money challenges, relatives and friends wanting to visit, job wanting you to come back soon...), so the last thing you need is an immature partner causing you additional stress.

5. Are the finances in order?  If not, re-evaluate you and your spending habits.  Your money is not your own exclusively.  You and your partner will have to set aside funds for those unexpected baby needs (like those hospital pictures for starters).  You will also want to research anything you didn't get during your baby shower (that is if you had one or are planning to have one) things like: maternity leave, health insurance for you and the baby, local childcare, diaper prices, lowest formula prices, clothing, cribs, baby changing tables, garbage pails, dressers, clothing, etc.

6.  Family and friends will want to know what is going on with baby plans or your baby's arrival.  Sometimes they can be pushy about things like:  wanting private information regarding baby thoughts, wanting to see the baby, helping you, getting your partner to be more engaging, etc.  Be prepared for the odd things some loved ones say and do.  Keep those you simply don't like or get along with distant if you don't want to have a major falling out with them.

7.  Be sure that you are in the know when it comes to the hospital procedures related to pregnancy, what is expected on the day of delivery, and more.  If you have yet to take any classes or read any books about pregnancy and baby milestones, start educating yourself.  There is always something new to learn.

Having a baby or planning to have one is a life-changing experience and you will want to do your best to think positively, but also anticipate the disappointments as well.  Sometimes things don't go as planned.

Nicholl McGuire shares spiritual insight on YouTube channel: nmenterprise7.

Who Has Down Syndrome Babies?

Most people associate having a child with Down syndrome with older women. While it is true that women over 35 do have an increased risk of having a child with Down syndrome, 80% of these children are born to those women under age thirty-five.

In the United States, approximately 5,000 babies with Down syndrome are born every year. A woman’s chance of having another baby with Down syndrome is approximately 1 in 100.

Prenatal Screening for Down Syndrome

Over the last 10 years, new technology has improved the methods of detection of Down syndrome. While there are ways to diagnose Down syndrome by obtaining fetal tissue samples by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, it would not be appropriate to examine every pregnancy this way. Besides greatly increasing the cost of medical care, these methods do carry a slight amount of risk to the fetus.

So screening tests have been developed to try to identify those pregnancies at "high risk." These pregnancies are then candidates for further diagnostic testing.

Screening Vs Diagnostic Test

What is the difference between a screening test and a diagnostic test? In diagnostic tests, a positive result very likely means the patient has the disease or condition of concern. In screening tests, the goal is to estimate the risk of the patient having the disease or condition.

Diagnostic tests tend to be more expensive and require an elaborate procedure; screening tests are quick and easy to do. However, screening tests have more chances of being wrong: there are "false-positives" (test states the patient has the condition when the patient really doesn't) and "false-negatives" (patient has the condition but the test states he/she doesn't).
Maternal Serum Screening

The mother's blood is checked for three items: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), unconjugated estriol (uE3) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). These three are independent measurements, and when taken along with the maternal age (discussed below), can calculate the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.

A very important consideration in the screening test is the age of the fetus (gestational age). The correct analysis of the different components depends on knowing the gestational age precisely. The best way to determine that is by ultrasound.

Test results are sometimes reported to doctors as "Multiples of the Median (MoM)." The "average" value is therefore called 1.0 MoM. Down syndrome pregnancies have lower levels of AFP and estriol, so their levels would be less than 1.0 MOM.

hCG in a Down syndrome pregnancy would be greater than 1.0 MoM.

Finally, the calculated risk is used to modify the risk already statistically calculated based on the mother's age. We already know that as the mother's age advances, the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome increases.

For example: Let's say the test results come back in the typical range for a pregnancy not associated with Down syndrome (that would be 1.0 MoM for all components). This result reduces the woman's risk of having a child with Down syndrome four-fold.

Jane Orville is the mother of a 17 year old daughter with Down Syndrome and has spent years researching and compiling a simple guide to assist parents deal with the concerns of raising a child with Down Syndrome.http://www.down-syndrome-help.com

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