Pregnancy Week By Week (Week 25)

Some Basic Pointers (Week 25)

Boy or Girl?

One of the most oft asked questions you will be asked is, 'Are you expecting a boy or a girl?' In fact you may wonder yourself, if you have not bothered to find out yet. Amniocentesis can determine baby gender through chromosome study. Ultrasounds can also be used but the results aren't as accurate. Another means to finding out is through baby's heartbeat. Baby's normal heartbeat ranges from 120-160 beats a minute. Some people believe a fast heartbeat is a girl and a slow one is a boy. However there is no scientific basis to this method or any of the more popular old wives tales of predicting gender. While it is fun to hazard a guess, treat is lightly and focus on the more important aspects to pregnancy.


Itching

This is common during pregnancy. No bumps or lesions, just itchy skin which can occur during any part of pregnancy, but seems more common during the last weeks. The condition poses no danger to mother or baby. Since your abdominal skin and muscles have stretched, itchiness is a natural consequence. Liberal application of Vitamin E lotion may help since it is good to keep skin lubricated. Avoid scratching as this only worsens things. Check with your doctor on cooling lotions containing menthol or camphor. No treatment is necessary. Read Full Article


Stress Effects

Stress has a very negative effect. Research shows an increasing link between stress and problems such as preeclampsia, miscarriage and premature labor. Major stress situations like house move, loss of job, death in the family are sure to take a toll on your health. It is very important to take good care of yourself; eat well, rest adequately and do your best to de-stress. Talk about it with a friend or relative or join a support group. Read Full Article


Falling and Injuries

Falling is a common cause for injury during pregnancy. The uterus within the abdomen inside the pelvis is protected and cushioned by the amniotic fluid and some protection is also provided by the uterus and abdominal wall. If you suffer a fall, contact your doctor for the necessary checking where you will be monitored and your baby's heartbeat will be checked for assurance that all is well. Any external injuries sustained will receive treatment as per normal. X-rays should be avoided as much as possible. Depending on how severe the fall and the injuries are, an ultrasound may be required to evaluate the situation. First things first, your balance and your movements are different now that you are getting larger. Be careful especially on wet surface like roads and pavements. Stairway is another common accident area; always use the handrails. Walk in well-lit areas. Slow down in your gait now that you take more time to get around. Change in balance may also cause you to trip and fall; vigilance on your part pays. Look out for these signs after a fall: bleeding, ruptured membranes made obvious by a fast flow of fluid from the vagina, severe abdominal pain.

One of the most serious consequences after a fall is placental abruption, where the placenta detaches itself from the uterus. The other serious injury is a broken bone or an injury that confines you to the bed for a while. A broken bone may require X-ray and surgery. Since treatment cannot be delayed, make sure your doctor is informed before any test or procedure is carried out. Pelvis and abdomen areas must be covered against any X-rays; in fact the necessity of it must be thoroughly weighed against the risks involved with the baby. Avoid general anesthesia (GA) if possible. Keep pain medication to a minimum. If GA is inevitable, the baby should be closely monitored. Your surgeon and doctor will work together using their discretion to get both of you on the track to recovery.

Your Nutrition (Week 25)

Your nutritional needs should be met through the foods you eat. But this is a rather unrealistic demand for most women and therefore necessitates a daily prenatal vitamin dose. Some women especially need to depend on these supplements - teenagers (whose bodies are not fully developed), underweight women, women who had a poor diet prior to conception and women who had multiples. Vegetarians, poor eaters, those who take certain medications, those who have an aversion to basics like milk need these supplements all the more. Your doctor is the best judge to decide if you need supplements, if you need more in addition to your prenatal vitamins. Do not take any supplements without your doctor's OK. You may find the same old healthy foods boring as you progress further into your pregnancy. To spice up your menu, here are some tips to help you along without the compromise.

• Whole wheat bagels, tortillas, or risotto are examples of complex carbohydrates that are rich in fiber, filling and a good source of energy

• Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli contain nutrients that are different from the orange group of vegetables such as carrots and yam. Include both categories in your diet every day.

• Fruits and vegetables are good any time and are nutritious too. High in vitamins and minerals and low in calories - just what you need

• To control your sweet tooth, set yourself a limit - 100 calories of candy or chocolate a day. Read labels for a better idea

• To vary your menu yet add the required nutrients try these:

3 cups of Popcorn = carbohydrates

2 tablespoons of peanut butter/¼ cup egg substitute = protein

½ cup spaghetti sauce = vegetable serving

• For your salads, different types of lettuce have different to offer. The darker, the better. Iceberg lettuce has the most fiber while romaine and spinach are rich in Vitamin A and folic.

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