The first one was locked because it has mixed topics. This thread is only for pregnancy topics. If the topic you are about to post is about related to Teen Moms Support, post it here.Diagnosis of pregnancy os based on pregnancy-related physical and hormonal changes and are classified as presumptive, probable, or positive.
Presumptive Signs and Symptoms (subjective)These changes may be noticed by the mother or health care provider but are NOT conclusive for pregnancy.
- amenorrhea (cessation of menstruation)
- nausea and vomiting
- urinary frequency
- fatigue
- breast changes
- weight change
- skin changes
- vaginal changes including leukorrhea (thick, whitish discharge from the vagina or cervical canal.)
- quickening (initial signs of fetal life felt by the mother as a result of the movements by the fetus)
Probable Signs and Symptoms (Objective)These changes are usually noted by the health care provider but are STILL NOT CONCLUSIVE for pregnancy.
- enlargement of the uterus
- changes in the uterus and cervix from increased vascularity
- Ballotement: fetus rebounds against the examiner's hand when pushed gently upwards
- Braxton Hick's contractions: occur early in pregnancy, although not usually sensed by the mother until the third trimester
- changes in skin pigmentation
- some laboratory test changes
Positive Signs and SymptomsThese signs emanate from the fetus, are noted by the health care provider, and ARE CONCLUSIVE for pregnancy
- Fetal heartbeat: detected as early as eighth week with an electronic device; after 16th week with a more conventional auscultory device
- palpation of fetal outline
- palpation of fetal movements
- demonstration of fetal outline by either ultrasound (after 6yh week) or xray (after 12th week)
Common Discomforts during Pregnancy and what to do with it:1. Morning Sickness
- Eat dry crackers before rising, stay in bed for 15 minutes
- Alternate dry carbohydrates (crackers) and fluid hourly
- Avoid empty stomach, offending odors and foods that are difficult to digest (foods high in fats)
- Avoid acidic foods (citrus)
2. Fatigue (Sleep Hunger)
- Iron supplements if anemic
- Eat foods high in iron, folic acid and protein
- Adequate rest
3. Fainting
- Elevate feet
- Sit down when necessary
- When standing, do not lock knees
- Avoid prolonged standing and fasting
4. Urinary frequency
- Kegel exercises
- Limit fluids just before bedtime to ensure rest
- Rule out UTI (urinalysis will rule out this one)
5. Hot flashes
- Alter clothing, bathing and environmental temperature as necessary
6. Headache
- If pain relief needed, consult physician (avoid over-the-counter drugs without prescription)
- Reduce tension
7. Nasal Stuffiness
- Antihistamines and nasal sprays BY PRESCRIPTION ONLY
8. Heartburn
- Physician may prescribe an antacid
- Avoid use of antacids containing sodium
- Instead of leaning over, bend at the knees, keeping torso straight
- Sit on firm chairs
- Limit fatty and fried foods
- Small frequent meals
9. Flatulence
- Maintain regular bowel habits
- Avoid gas-forming foods: cabage, broccoli, onion, beer, champagne, peas, corn, raddish, strong beans
- Antiflatulence may be prescribed
10. Insomnia
- Medication by prescription only
- Exercise
- Side-lying positions with pillow support
- Change position often
- Backrubs
11. Shortness of breath
- Good posture
- Stop smoking
- Position: upright/supine (back leaning on bed)
12. Backache
- Correct posture
- Low-heeled, wide-based shoes and abdominal support (binders)
- Do pelvic rock often
- Avoid fatigue
13. Pelvic Joint Pain
- Rest
- Good posture
- Will go away after giving birth
- Avoid prolonged standing/walking
14. Leg cramp
- Stretch affected muscles and hold until it subsides
- Do not rub
- Increase calcium intake
15. Constipation
- Diet: prunes, fruits, vegetables, roughage and fluids
- Exercise
- Sit on toilet with knees up
- Avoid mineral oil, laxatives
16. Hemorrhoids
- Avoid constipation
- Elevate hip and legs frequently
- Take warm sitz baths
- Use hemorrhoidal ointments only with doctor’s prescription
17. Ankle edema
- Rest legs often during day with legs and hips raised
18. Varicose veins
- Elevate legs above level of heart
- Support hose may help
19. Cramp in side or groin
- To get out of bed, turn to side, use arm and upper body and push up to sitting position
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS TO REPORT IMMEDIATELY:1. Persistent vomiting beyond first trimester or sever vomiting at any time
2. Fluid discharge from vagina – bleeding or amniotic fluid
3. Severe or unusual pain: abdominal
4. Chills or fever
5. Urinary frequency or burning on urination
6. Absence of fetal movements lasting more than 24 hours
7. Visual disturbances – blurring, double vision, spots before eyes
8. Swelling of fingers, ankles, hands, feet or face
9. Sever, frequent or continual headache
10. Muscle irritability or convulsions
11. Rapid weight gain not associated with eating
12. More than 4 uterine contractions per hours before 38 weeks
SCHEDULED PRENATAL VISITSOnce monthly – until week 28
Every 2 weeks – week 28 -36
Weekly – week 36 until labor
If you have more questions, just post it here and we will try to help you.
