Pregnancy

Stages of Pregnancy

First Trimester

  • Duration: Conception to 13 weeks.

  • Signs of Pregnancy:

    • Missed period (first sign).

    • Tiredness.

    • Mood changes.

  • Period:

    • Germinal Period: Conception to 2nd week.

      • Sperm penetrates the egg, forming a zygote.

      • The zygote divides repeatedly, becoming a blastocyst.

      • Blastocyst attaches to the uterine lining.

    • Embryonic Period: 2nd week to 9th week.

      • Developing baby referred to as an embryo.

      • Key developments:

        • Nervous system formation.

        • Heart begins to beat.

        • Distinct body parts become identifiable.

      • Umbilical cord and placenta develop, with amniotic fluid forming for protection.

Anatomy of Pregnancy

  • Placenta: Organ forming in the uterus, nourishing the baby via the umbilical cord.

  • Umbilical Cord:

    • Connects placenta to the baby.

    • Contains 3 blood vessels (1 vein, 2 arteries):

      • Umbilical Vein: Carries oxygenated blood/nutrients from placenta to fetus.

      • Umbilical Arteries: Carry deoxygenated blood/waste back to placenta.

Pregnancy Health & Safety

  • Health Care Visits:

    • Care providers: OB/GYN, Midwife, Family Practitioner.

    • First Visit:

      • Pregnancy test to confirm.

      • Check weeks pregnant and predict delivery date.

      • Blood tests for overall health: STIs, blood pressure, cholesterol.

    • Check-up frequency:

      • Every 4 weeks until week 28.

      • Every 2 weeks until week 36.

      • Weekly until delivery.

    • Checks during visits:

      • Weight, blood pressure, baby’s growth/development (via fetal heartbeat and belly measurement).

      • Prenatal tests (blood, urine, cervical tests, ultrasound).

Fetal Period

  • Duration: End of first trimester until birth.

  • A developing baby is referred to as a fetus.

  • All body parts mature; size increases rapidly.

Second Trimester

  • Duration: 14 to 27 weeks.

  • Physical changes for mother: Enlarged belly, larger breasts, wider hips.

  • Distinct body parts develop: arms, legs, fingers, toes.

  • Movements become coordinated, noticeable by mother.

  • Baby weight by the end: 1.5 lbs, length: 12-14 inches.

  • Considered the best trimester by many mothers due to the alleviation of morning sickness.

Viability

  • Periviable Infants: Babies born before 27 weeks face survival challenges.

  • Survival rates per week:

    • 26 weeks: 86-89%.

    • 25 weeks: 67-76%.

    • 24 weeks: 42-59%.

    • 23 weeks: 23-27%.

    • 22 weeks or earlier: 5-6%.

Third Trimester

  • Duration: 28 to 40 weeks.

  • All organs are fully developed and functioning.

  • Baby gains weight and develops fatty tissue.

  • Average weights: 3 lbs at 7 months, 7-8 lbs at birth.

Preparing for Birth

  • In the 9th month, body prepares for delivery: Baby positions head down.

  • Feeling of “Lightening” as baby drops into pelvis, improving breathing.

  • Possible emotional “Nesting” behavior in mothers.