PREGNANCY SIGNS AND MATERNAL HEALTH

These signs maybe present a few days after conception,

·         Spotting also known as “breakthrough bleeding” which is bleeding from the womb that occurs between menstrual periods; and Cramping (6-12 days after fertilization).

·         There also be the appearance of white, milky discharge from vagina.

·         Breast: swollen, sore, or tingly a week or two later. It may feel heavier or fuller and/or feel tender to touch. Areola may also darken.

·         Of course morning sickness, fatigue, food craving or aversions, irregular or missed periods

Pregnancy test “+ve”

Small goose-bumps like raised areas on the areola. May be multiple in number, though varies from woman to woman. This is considered a possible sign of pregnancy thought to be protective of the areola and keep it healthy during pregnancy and lactation. Many women worry about these or try to pop them. This is not necessary and can be painful or cause infection if you try to pop them. Simply leave it be.

Clinicals. Pregnancy induced hypertension is defined as hypertension that develops as a direct result of pregnancy. Diagnosis of pre-eclampsia:

ü  An absolute rise in blood pressure of atleast 140/90

ü  Or systolic greater than 30mmHg and diastolic greater than 15mmHg

ü  Edema and Proteinuria

Who at risk of pre-eclampsia?

ü    Primigravida: that is a woman experiencing her first pregnancy

ü    Diabetic patient

ü    Obese patient

ü    Pre existing vascular disease

ü    Thrombophilia

ü    Insulin resistant patient

ü    Patients with twin pregnancy

Hence the need for every pregnant woman to go through ante-natal care for early detection and treatment, thereby saving both mother and child’s lives

Food to eat or avoid during pregnancy?

First foods to eat: Eggs, Salmon fish, beans, sweet potatoes, pop corn and other whole grains. Walnuts, yoghurts, dark green, leafy vegetables, lean meats or white meats, including colourfulo fruits and veggies. Oops I have mentioned that earlier.

Foods to totally avoid during pregnancy: raw, undercooked or contaminated seafood containing mercury, unpasteurized foods, uncooked eggs, red meats, excess caffeine, herbal tea, alcohol, and drugs especially those not prescribed by your doc.