by Beth Staiano

Created on: May 01, 2009   Last Updated: May 04, 2009

As a mother of five, I can honestly say that I enjoyed all five of my pregnancies. Each pregnancy, like every child, was unique and beautiful. I believe it helps if you have a husband or partner who totally believes that the "pregnant you" is the most beautiful creature he has ever seen. I believe that a pregnant woman should be treated like a princess; nothing less will do. The father of your child should be there to wait on you, run to the store in the middle of the night for those pizza or icecream cravings, remind you several times a day how beautiful you are, and how much he loves you. Nightly back and feet massages are also a major benefit.

Once you have been to the doctor and it has been confirmed that you are expecting, she will try to determine when your due date will be. The doctor will ask you when you last had your menstrual period. Just as an example, when I found out I was expecting my fifth child, the first day of my last menstrual cycle was October 4. The doctor added 7 days, and went back 3 months. My due date was July 11th. Strangely enough, my daughter, Isabella, was born right on her due date.

Your doctor will prescribe a prenatal vitamin. She may also prescribe an iron supplement. These are very important for the health of your baby.

Around the time that you discover that you are definitely expecting, you may begin to experience morning sickness. This can range from feeling a little sick to your stomach first thing in the morning, to feeling very sick the majority of the day; and unable to keep anything down. Your sense of smell will be much keener, so everything will be exaggerated which may lead to more nausea and vomiting. For most women, morning sickness is over by the time you have entered your second trimester. During the second trimester (months 4-6), you may feel as though you have more energy than ever. Enjoy your pregnancy because it will zoom by so quickly. This is also the time that you will begin to feel movement in your uterus. It starts out feeling like butterflies fluttering around in your belly. Before you know it, you will begin to feel feet kicking and knees bulging. It's an amazing feeling knowing that you and your husband have created a life that is growing and developing right in your own body.

Your breasts will change and get larger. Your nipples will get darker. You may have leakage known as colostrum. If you decide to breastfeed, the colostrum is extremely beneficial for the baby.

Most doctors feel that the mother should

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