by Norma Chew

Created on: December 14, 2008   Last Updated: December 16, 2008

The "Gift of Life" is a mystery and a significant mile stone in the creation of a family. How do you know when this gift is being created in you? Mother nature gives tell tale signs.

Here is a list of some of the early signs of pregnancy.

P....Periods: Cessation of your periods or menstrual cycle is usually the first sign of pregnancy. It is a common indicator during your child bearing age.

R....Regular trips to the bathroom to urinate is an early sign, this is due to dilatation of the ureters and renal pelvis.

E....Emotionally you could feel a bit testy and notice having mood swings, this is due to the significant due hormonal changes that your body is experiencing.

G....Great increase in your appetite and progessive weight gain is a common theme that takes place.

N....Nausea and vomiting also called morning sickness can occur any time of the day.

A....Areola changes which is, darkening of the pigmentation of the nipple areas occur along with other breast changes, such as tenderness and increase in breast size.

N....Need for more rest and relaxation creeps up on you. Often times you will feel tired, find your self dozing off and sleeping a lot more.

C....Chadwick's sign: A bluish discoloration and congestion of the vaginal and vulval area can be observed due to increased vascularity in the area.

Y....Yearnings for specific foods even in the middle of the night is a common occurrence. These yearnings may be so intense that you are tormented to go out and buy what ever food your heart desires.

When you see and feel these signs and symptoms you quite likely have received the "Gift of Life". Proper prenatal care for yourself and your baby now becomes a priority.

Tips To Think About Regarding Prenatal Care.

Prenatal care is extremely important for the health and welfare of both mother and baby.

A visit to your physician is of utmost importance as soon as you recognize the signs of pregnancy. Prenatal care may also be administered by an Advanced Registered Nurse Practioner (ARNP) or a Midwife.

Hormonal, Nutritional and Anatomical changes occur during pregnancy.

Hormonal Changes:

The hormones progesterone and estrogen levels increase and they get higher and higher as the pregnancy progresses. Both these hormones are vital for preparing the body to accommodate the baby.

They stimulate the growth of the breast tissues.

They make the mucus plug covering the uterus much stronger to prevent infection.

They prevent the uterus from contracting which keeps the baby intact. As the time of delivery arrives the progesterone levels decreases which causes contractions of the uterus and the birth of the baby. These are just some of the benefits that these hormones provide during pregnancy. These are the same hormones that cause you to have mood swings and make you a little testy.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies may occur now that your baby also needs to be nourished.

A proper diet of fresh fruits vegetables, proteins, fiber and adequate intake of fluid is essential.

Your physician will recommend a prenatal vitamin.

Anatomical Changes

The increase in your weight can cause added stress on your body, a shift in your center of gravity and backache. Try to practice good posture. Walking and swimming are good exercises to build strength and stamina. This will also promote good balance and the reduction of stress.

Discuss with your physician any medications you may be taking to avoid taking medications that may have unto-wards effects on your unborn child.

Proper dental care is an important aspect of prenatal care. X rays are not to be taken during pregnancy. Be sure to inform your dentist of your pregnancy.

If you smoke now is the time to quit.

The gift of life is priceless!

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