Pregnancy & Prenatal Development

Early Signs of Pregnancy _____________ period Fullness or _____________ in back and lower abdomen Feeling tired, drowsy, or _____________ Need to _____________ more often than usual Periods of _____________, especially early in the day

Medical Care During Pregnancy As soon as a woman thinks she’s pregnant, it’s important to get _____________ _____________ : is the name for the doctor who cares for pregnant women Many obstetricians work in a practice with other doctors and take turns (rotate) _____________

Medical Care – cont’d During the initial exam: Blood _____________, pulse, respiration, and initial weight are checked Medical _____________ is gathered The pelvis is measured to determine of the birth canal is wide enough to pass a _____________ baby Urine is examined for: Infection _____________ Preeclampsia (high blood pressure)

Medical Care – cont’d _____________ the initial exam: Blood is tested for: Anemia: a condition caused by a lack of _____________ and results in tiredness, weakness, and lack of appetite. Rh factor – the presence or absence of a certain _____________ Immunity to _____________(German measles)

Medical Care – cont’d Subsequent medical visits are usually scheduled _____________ until the 6-7 th month At 6-7 months, exams are _____________ During the last month, exams are _____________

Medical Care – cont’d Subsequent medical visits are used to check: _____________ growth & development Monitor health _____________ Expectant fathers are encouraged to _____________ in the medical visits

Discomforts of Pregnancy Some of the more common discomforts are: _____________ which rarely lasts past the 4 th month _____________ due to hormonal changes Heartburn Shortness of breath in later _____________ as the baby grows and puts pressure on the diaphragm _____________ veins (varicose veins) _____________ cramps…particularly in the legs Lower back pain and back _____________

Complications The most common complications are: _____________ bleeding Unusual _____________ gain Excessive _____________ Reduced or painful urination Severe abdominal _____________ _____________ headaches Severe _____________ Fever Swelling of face, hand, or ankles Blurred vision or _____________ Prolonged backache Increased vaginal _____________