Desiree Ann H. PatacsilAlexa SeguiJames Sarno

III-Peace

Preparing for Motherhood

Pregnancy is the period of time between concept and birth during which the baby develops within the uterus. Pregnancy can be an exciting time for the expectant mother and father. However, both must work at keep this a happy time. One of the best ways to ensure the pregnancy is a healthy time is to establish healthful eating and exercising habits before conception. Pregnant women should also see their doctors regularly. Through pregnancy is a normal state, not a care. Likewise, mother must make emotional as well as physical adjustments. Knowing that, she is even more loved because her role in this joint venture is important.

Nausea and vomiting are morning sickness usually

occurs from the sixth week to he third month of

pregnancy; marked changes in the breast include

enlargement, heaviness, and in a tingling feeling and

increased sensitivity in the breast and nipples. Frequent urination may also be experienced because the uterus is

expanding and exerting pressure on the bladder.

Moodiness takes place due to hormonal changes affect

emotions and psychological ups and downs are likely be

experienced by the expectant mother.

Even if a woman has been experiencing some or all

symptoms, it is important o reconfirm the diagnosis with

a pregnancy test.

This test will detect the pregnancy hormone

called human chorionic gonadotropin, which is produced

by the placenta and its present in the blood and urine of

the expecting mother.

Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant. It includes your checkups and prenatal testing. Prenatal care can help keep you and your baby healthy. It lets your health care provider spot health problems early. Early treatment can cure many problems and prevent others.

Your doctor or midwife will give you a schedule for your prenatal visits. If you are over 35 years old or your pregnancy is high risk because of health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor or midwife will probably want to see you more often. You can also expect to see your health care provider more often as your due date gets closer.

Constipation, a common

problem during pregnancy,

causes less frequent and more

strained bowel movements. The

bowels commonly move more

slowly during pregnancy, and

iron in prenatal vitamins also

can cause constipation.

Hemorrhoids are

swollen veins at the end of the

large intestine (anus). They

often stick out from the anus

(external hemorrhoids). They

can also be located on the

inside of the lower intestine

(internal hemorrhoids).

Bleeding, itching, and pain are

common hemorrhoid symptoms.

Many mothers choose to deliver their

babies in a hospital for the following

reasons:

• The doctor is available when needed.

• Modern equipment and facilities in a

hospital are available.

• The mother feels safe and well-cared

for in a hospital.

Before leaving the

hospital, the following

thins should be

prepared:

For the Mother:

Gown or duster

loose dress

slippers

blinders

sanitary napkins

toiletries such as soap, talcum powder,

toothpaste, toothbrush, and comb

towel and face towel

tissue paper

For the Baby:

at least three medium-sized

diapers

two cotton shirts (one sleeveless,

and one with sleeves)

diaper pins

stockings, mittens and bonnet

one baby blanket

When new babies arrive home

from the hospital, hey needed

constant care. Usually the mother

assumes mos or all this

responsibility----

feeding, diapering, doing

laundry, picking up as well as

holding, cuddling, and playing with

the baby.

Some couples choose to have

their babies a home with the

help of a midwife. Preparations

are also made to ensure safe

and successful delivery. These

are:

• a room with a bed for delivery; it must

be well-ventilated, well-lighted, and

clean

an attendant or a midwife to attend to

the mother

a person to assist the midwife and

attend to the mother’s needs

a clean water contains and basins for

cool and hot water

a lamp or a flashlight, in case of power

failure

a clean table o hold he supplies needed

at the time of delivery

The following are also needed:

For the Mother• gowns or dusters

• bed sheets

• blankets for bath and for bed

• thermometer and hot water bag

• basin and pitcher

• bedpan

• basic toiletries, such as talcum

powder, soap, cotton balls, and

alchohol

For the Baby• clothes basket

• rubber sheeting

• safety pins

• sheets and pillows

• soft towels

• cotton applicators in a clean and

sterile bottle

• baby soap, baby oil, and baby

powder