Pregnancy

1. WHAT IS PREGNANCY?

Pregnancy is the result of the fertilization of the female ovum or egg by the male cell or sperm. Pregnancy is also the period from conception to birth. After the egg is fertilized by a sperm and then implanted in the liningof the uterus, it develops into the placenta and embryo, and later into a foetus. Pregnancy usually lasts 40weeks, beginning from the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period, and is divided into three trimesters,each lasting three months. Pregnancy is that state or condition when a female carries a foetus in her womb for about nine months.

A foetus is an unborn baby. The male sex cell is called Sperm. The female sex cell is called Ovum or Egg. It is produced in the ovary. The process of producing an ovum by the ovary is called Ovulation. If there is a sexual relationship or intercourse between a man and woman at the period the ovum is produced, the sperm will fertilize the ovum, this will result in pregnancy. If there is no sexual relationship during this period, the released ovum will die off in a day or two, then menstruation occurs.

SIGNS OF PREGNANCY

1. Menstruation stops
2. Breasts become fuller and tender. Nipple become dark
3. Nausea and vomiting may occur, especially in the morning (morning sickness)
4. There may be frequent urination
5. The abdomen enlarges from about 3 months
6. As the pregnancy advances, the mother may feel the baby’s movement.

1. STAGES OF PREGNANCY DEVELOPMENT

Pregnancy goes through three stages. Each stage takes 3 months. These stages are referred to as Trimesters.

First Trimester: This is the first three months of pregnancy. This is a very delicate period because if anything happens to the foetus at this stage, it can lead to abortion or miscarriage. The placenta forms to provide the foetus through the umbilical cord.

Second Trimester: This is the pregnancy period between 3 and 6 months. This stage is more stable than the first trimester.

Third Trimester: This is the pregnancy period from 6 to 9 months. It requires adequate nourishment for growth. At the end of this trimester, the mother enters into labor and the child is born.

1. CARING FOR A PREGNANT WOMAN

In the caring for a pregnant woman, the following aspects must be considered.

1. Nutrition during pregnancy
2. Hygiene
3. Posture
4. Exercise
5. Special dresses

1. GUIDELINES FOR GOOD NUTRITION DURING PREGNANCY

1. Her meals must be balanced
2. She should increase her intake of protein, mineral, iron for blood, calcium for bones
3. Extra vitamins are necessary for good health
4. She is required to drink enough water daily
5. Roughage from fruits and vegetables can improve digestion and bowel movement
6. Carbohydrates and greasy food should be reduced to prevent over-weight and digestive up-sets.

1. POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF POOR NUTRITION DURING PREGNANCY

1. Low birth weight
2. Different forms of malformation in the child
3. Mother’s health might be affected too

III. ANTE-NATAL CARE

Ante-natal care is the care required by a pregnant woman before the birth of the child. The pregnant woman visits the hospital regularly to see doctors for check-up. Many tests are carried out such as urine test, blood pressure, weight, blood tests, height of uterus and heart beat of the foetus. At the clinic, the woman also learns about child care and how to care for herself.

Assessment.

1. What is Pregnancy?
2. What is Ovulation?
3. Explain the Stages of Pregnancy.
4. What is Ante-natal care?
5. List 5 signs of pregnancy.