Is your body ready for pregnancy or more importantly are "you." I agree both questions may sound silly to the woman who has already given birth, but because each pregnancy differs and the body changes with age, makes questions of this nature ones that have to be asked. Aside from getting the body into a healthy state to carry a baby, plans have to be made for the infant's arrival. Parents need to be prepared for when baby turns toddler. They need to be prepared when toddler turns teen. Do the parent's preparations ever stagnate, no; planning still goes on for when the children fly the nest? Mom will nurture her baby, tickle her toddler and nag her teen - and why. Every mom has a personal built in mechanism inside which triggers an emotion what impels her too protect and love in a way you could never imagine or even understand until you become a mom too.
Is your body ready for pregnancy
The norm for preconception preparations usually starts up to 12 months before conception. Your doctor will need to ask questions to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy. If you already use contraception (birth control pill) your GP may suggest a pill-free break before trying to conceive. Disconnection from the pill will permit the reproductive system to go through several normal cycles before you conceive - which will make it easier to establish when ovulation happened. While this is suggested it is best to take necessary precautions. Use a condom or a barrier method of contraception till you are ready.
Is there such a thing as unhealthy pregnancy ? This will depend on what is meant by unhealthy. Unhealthy pregnancies can really only result from how you look after yourself before and throughout the 9 month period. Smoking, taking drugs, eating bad foods and drinking alcohol can harm your well being and severely damage the unborn baby. Avoid caffeinated drinks, although 1 to 2 cups a day is acceptable. Research disclosed that caffeine in one or two cups of coffee will not have a significant effect on the developing fetus.
In pregnancy you could face serious issues. Infections i.e. chickenpox (varicella), German measles (rubella) and hepatitis B can be dangerous for an unborn baby. If your immunizations have not been completed or your immunity to certain infections is unknown, your preconception care may include one or more vaccines.
If you suffer from diabetes, asthma or have high blood pressure - you'll want to make sure your condition is stable before conceiving. Your GP will be aware of any medication you take for any disorders you have, however if you buy over the counter herbal solutions tell your doctor.
Safe proposals at this stage are prenatal vitamins. Why take prenatal vitamins so early. The baby's neural tube - which becomes the brain and spinal cord - grows during the first 4 weeks of pregnancy. Taking prenatal vitamins before conception helps prevent neural tube defects. Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid. Your baby needs this essential nutrient during the early weeks of development to help prevent serious conditions like spina bifida.
Although the body needs vitamins, seek medical advice to verify if it is safe for you to take them
You need to be aware that if infected with a venereal disease (VD - STD) it can increase the risk of infertility, ectopic pregnancy (fertilized egg implants outside the uterus) and other pregnancy complications Unprotected sex is not safe and neither are the problems that can rise from having sexual intercourse without using contraception.
If there is family history of ill health then this can affect your pregnancy and risks increase. Baby can be born with a medical condition or birth defect. Do not concern yourself at this time over this issue because women all over the world are delivering healthy babies. To put your mind at rest, talk to your nurse or doctor at the clinic.
Age does not really have to give reason for concern, however depending on the age group we talk of - may see extra care rules having to be issued. After age 35, the risk of fertility problems, miscarriage and certain chromosomal disorders increase. If you have in the past suffered complications when giving birth - tell your GP. Complications may have included high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, preterm labor, premature birth or birth defects. If you want to deliver a healthy baby and give it the best start in life, then eat healthy foods and stay clear of substances that harm. Healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy are vital. Light exercise combined with a healthy diet is the key to future goodness for you and your baby.
Obesity is not healthy and if you do not want to delay the conception process then try and lose weight. According to the ASRM, weighing too much or too little can make you less fertile and affect your ability to carry a baby to term. Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs. Good luck and give baby plenty of kisses and hugs.
The Immaculate Conception explained
Pope Pius IX confirmed in his 1854 dogma that "the most Blessed Mary was, from the first minute of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of Almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin." This confirms that Christ redeemed all human beings, including Mary although at the time done differently. Medieval Franciscan theologian quoted, Duns Scotus (1266-1308) Christ's role was to mediate for all men, and that to do so he must have been born of a pure mother. Since this mother was also mediated by him, then his mediation would be to make her immaculate which would also facilitate his birth. This does not contradict the Bible in that subsequent to Adam and Eve's fall from Eden, all men are born with Original Sin. Christ removed Mary`s sin, as we now all have thanks to his sacrifice. In our case, this is through baptism. As Mary was his mother, hers was removed before birth, therefore labeled 'Immaculate Conception'
In today's society we have no blessed virgins so therefore you need to take safety precautions to stay safe. Using contraceptives can prevent sexually transmitted diseases and an unwanted pregnancy.
by Kacy Carr
