A long-awaited event in the life of every woman is the period of bearing a child. From the moment of pregnancy, the mother must understand that she is responsible not only for herself, but for the future baby.

Therefore, this period is marked by special procedures, health care and full adherence to the recommendations of doctors.

Tips for pregnant women can be divided into those that refer to the first, second, third trimester.

At a certain stage of gestation, a woman should follow the recommendations that contribute to the birth of a healthy and strong baby.

Let's consider the main ones:

After the doctor has notified the couple that they will be parents, the mother needs to register with the antenatal clinic and be constantly monitored by a gynecologist.

Nutrition during pregnancy

One of the most important tips is to normalize the nutrition of the expectant mother. If you adhere to a competent diet, you can not only enjoy food, but also give the child the necessary trace elements and vitamins.

note! Signs of malnutrition are the lack of food, the imbalance of important components in products, their poor quality, as well as excessive consumption of food.

These indicators lead to the fact that the mother may develop complications in the process of gestation and childbirth.

Proper nutrition for weeks is the use of proteins, carbohydrates and fats in the right quantities. Sufficient fluid intake is considered important.

Throughout the pregnancy, a woman should pay attention to the following recommendations:

Is it worth giving birth after 40 years?

Modern scientists have found, what optimal age women for childbirth is considered a period of 30 to 35 years.

It was then that the expectant mother managed to form her psychological health, she knows all her illnesses and ways to deal with them.

In addition, at this stage, a woman has reached certain positions in society, has financial resources.

But having become pregnant after 40 years, the expectant mother has a question: can there be complications during childbirth??

Consider this nuance:

1. The chances of a woman getting pregnant after 40 years of age are significantly reduced in relation to an early age..

   They make up 10% of the likely conception, since the processes in a woman's body change significantly. However, with the onset of pregnancy, the expectant mother rejuvenates her body.

2. The other side of the coin is considered in the works of Dr. Komarovsky: he claims that at this age the chances of fetal loss sharply arise.

   There are reasons for this - germ cells become defective, the attachment of the fetal egg is disturbed, there is a high level of pathologies and anomalies.

   It is worth considering that the characteristics of the body of each woman are individual.

3. It is worth considering if a medical spiral has been installed, then before you conceive a child after 40, time must pass.

   After the spiral, at least six months pass before conception occurs.

You need to prepare for pregnancy with the help of planning. It is recommended that you and your husband go to a genetics doctor if there is a history of organ malformations in the mother and husband, as well as if there were missed pregnancies and miscarriages that recur several times.

Important! If you can’t get pregnant on your own, you should not use folk remedies that affect a woman’s health in two ways. It is better to consult a qualified clinic.

Before deciding on a late birth, consider all possible risks and the likelihood of developing pathologies. Planning will become a mandatory step in the period of trying to conceive a baby.

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Let's be honest - one of the main periods of a woman's life, the expectation of a child, is often accompanied by a number of difficulties, negative moments or doubts. ELLE has put together a set of 20 tips to help every pregnant woman navigate her pregnancy in the easiest way possible. This publication contains tips for all occasions - keep this memo in front of your eyes, and perhaps it will help you feel more positive and energetic for all 9 months.

1. Keep a pregnancy diary

2. Don't panic!

It happens that a hormonal surge during pregnancy creates a feeling that they don’t understand you, they don’t take care of you enough, and during toxicosis, the ability to dramatize various kinds of situations completely leads to a panic state. In this situation, there is nothing better than positive communication with specialists who have given birth to girlfriends, pregnant women on the forums. Download the "Happy Pregnancy" application, register on the forum for pregnant women or follow on Instagram a practicing psychologist, a specialist in pregnancy and childbirth, or a popular star mother on the network. Do not experience your condition and fears alone. In the end, if positive thinking does not come, know that this is not scary and this is not a pathology. According to statistics, about 40% of women do not perceive pregnancy as a blessing, they are subject to fears and doubts, and are under stress. In case you can’t do it yourself, feel free to sign up for group courses on preparing for childbirth or for a session with a psychologist.

3. Don't be afraid to do an ultrasound

In these 9 months, ultrasound will be the main study that will allow you to understand how the pregnancy proceeds and your baby develops. Expectant mothers often worry about when to do the first ultrasound and whether it can be done in the short term. Previously, there was an opinion that ultrasound is a dangerous procedure, and it is often not recommended to do it. Today, experts say that medical point of view, such a procedure is absolutely safe for you and the unborn child. Modern ultrasound devices have the functions of three-dimensional and four-dimensional imaging, which allow not only to observe the movements of the child, but also to identify rare or complex disorders of his cardiac activity at an early stage. Moreover, thanks to unique technologies - for example, Auto Face Reveal - during a planned ultrasound, future parents will be able to see the baby's face even during pregnancy.

4. Practice Stretch Mark Prevention

Most women are seriously afraid that skin elasticity will not return after childbirth. One of the main aesthetic problems that worries women during pregnancy is stretch marks. However, today manufacturers of beauty brands offer such a number of revolutionary products that only those who neglected prevention during pregnancy will face the problem. Take a cue from Victoria Beckham, who carried 4 children and never earned a single stretch mark. The secret of the star's success is Elemis "Japanese Camellia" oil. This unique treatment, rich in plant collagen, maintains skin elasticity and prevents stretch marks. It is used both during pregnancy and for massage. One of the most advanced pregnancy products, among other things, it is non-sticky, has a subtle neutral scent and is suitable for all skin types.

5. We use remedies for edema

The problem of heavy legs and swelling is familiar to every pregnant woman. Available at any pharmacy special means to help fight swelling. In addition, buy compression stockings for pregnant women in an orthopedic salon - they are indispensable in late roses. It is also recommended to use special cooling foot creams at night. The best - at. Miracle blue cream in a small jar improves blood circulation, instantly relieves tension and fatigue, refreshes the skin and gives a feeling of lightness and comfort.

6. Buy a pregnancy pillow

The special elongated banana-shaped pillow can be made from the most different materials. Choose a filler that is comfortable for you - holofiber, swan artificial fluff or granules. At first glance, it seems that this is a useless accessory, but from the middle of the second trimester, every pregnant woman begins to experience serious discomfort during sleep due to the appearance of the stomach. A special pillow helps to distribute body weight in such a way that you will be able to sleep comfortably on your back and on your side.

7. Wear a brace

From the end of the second trimester, due to the appearance of the abdomen, you will feel back pain. To ease the load on the back and support the abdominal muscles, use a special bandage. There are a great many variations of colors and models: on hooks and Velcro, zippers and fasteners. It is better to trust specialists from an orthopedic salon, rather than choosing a popular model from a lingerie store.

8. Plan Your Stroller Carefully

Perhaps this is the most pleasant and important purchase for your future baby, so choose responsibly. The stroller should be light, convenient, comfortable, mobile, and therefore it is very important to arrange a minimal test drive for it. Or trust the power of the brand. So, today the absolute leader is the Stokke Xplory model, which is called the stroller for perfect contact. The iconic Scandinavian brand that creates the trendiest minimalist strollers that are especially popular with stars and it-girls offers the most innovative solutions - height adjustment that allows you and your child to be as close as possible to each other, comfortable handles, footrests, endless choices. seating positions and plenty of options that will really make it easier for a new mom. A wide range of accessories will allow you to choose the most stylish additions to your stroller. Add mobility, comfort and style here. In a word, our favorite model will definitely not disappoint you.

9. Give up hardware procedures

Unfortunately, you will have to be patient. No LPG, lasers and other beauty aids. Throughout pregnancy, you should not do laser and photoepilation, electrolysis, visit a solarium. By the way, fillers are also banned.

10. Be careful with medications

Before taking any pill, even if it is a common cold or headache, consult your doctor. Also, carefully read all the instructions for contraindications during pregnancy.

11. Connect with your doctor

We live in a time when hiking in women's consultation several times during pregnancy individual approach have sunk into oblivion. Today it is very important to be in touch with your doctor - his mobile should always be at your fingertips. Build relationships in such a way that you have the opportunity to receive a recommendation via Skype or report via SMS about the problem that worries you.

12. Don't be afraid to travel

Only in our country, traveling during pregnancy is treated as extreme. In fact, a vacation on the sea coast is a very useful activity for pregnant women. Of course, you must obtain the consent of a doctor and have no contraindications for flying. If the pregnancy passes without complications, flying to hot countries is not prohibited. Of course, it is important to remain vigilant: choose not the most exotic destinations, do not stay in the open sun for a long time, do not contact children, drink only bottled water, etc.

13. A glass of wine - you can!

Of course, we understand that alcohol and cigarettes are banned, but sometimes, very rarely, you can afford a glass of wine. Especially on vacation. Treat limitations without bigotry. But don't make a glass of wine with dinner a habit. Any doctor will tell you that one glass of wine a week won't hurt you or your baby.

14. Save Your Baby's First Prenatal Photo During Your First Ultrasound

Just because it's touching.

15. You can dye your hair!

Our mothers were not lucky - they were forced to deny themselves the pleasure of being beautiful during pregnancy. Today we have every opportunity not to feel restrictions in matters of self-care. Yes, ammonia paints can indeed be dangerous, but today there are also ammonia-free dyes. So, the brand has all the possible world patents that officially allow the use of this dye during pregnancy. The thing is that the composition of the innovative paint does not include ammonia. If earlier, in order to change the color of your hair, you had to get rid of your own pigment with ammonia, and then paint over your hair with the desired shade, now your natural pigment is planted with one that will change the shade without harm to the hair. In addition, CHI American silk dye is not only not harmful, but even useful - the dye contains silk, which fills the hair in places of damage, making it more elastic. In Moscow, you can try this technology in the CHI Color Studio on Tverskaya-Yamskaya.

15. Choose a sport that suits you

Do not strive to be hyperactive during pregnancy, but you should not completely abandon the sport. As a rule, all girls in position make a choice between yoga and swimming. Both of these methods are safe for pregnant women and help improve blood circulation. Attention: we are talking about special yoga classes for pregnant women, which is different from the usual classes.

16. Update your wardrobe wisely

Of course, you will need comfortable clothes, but resist the temptation to buy everything at once. Fashion for pregnant women is very peculiar, you are unlikely to wear all this oversize later. It will be much more appropriate to buy basic things - leggings, a few T-shirts and sundresses. Don't be afraid of pull-back dresses: sometimes emphasizing your curves is a much more interesting story than trying to hide them with oversized outfits that will then gather dust on the shelf.

17. Forget about heels

Believe me, we stand up for the beauty of women during pregnancy, but heels are too big a sacrifice. Swelling, heaviness in the legs, a general condition of slight loss of coordination - choose only comfortable shoes. Any dress code is absolutely loyal to a pregnant woman!

18. Throw a Traditional Baby Shower Party

This is perhaps the most enjoyable moment of your entire pregnancy. In America, such parties are good tradition for many years, and today they are becoming a real trend with us. In fact, this event is a bachelorette party dedicated to the birth of a baby. The main thing here is the entourage and proper organization. Of course, it is better to trust professionals in this matter so that they create your perfect Baby Shower - with the right decor, candy bar and other beauty. The main guru of the capital, Ekaterina Meskhi, the founder of the It's a babyshower company for organizing children's parties and the creator of the Instagram page @its_a_babyshower_ru, advises choosing a bright room for organizing the perfect Baby Shower, as well as decor from the case of the company you plan to work with - fortunately, an impressive selection of rattles , garlands, balloons and delicate desserts is now huge! “Cupcakes, cake pops, macaroons, cookies - our confectioners decorate all these desserts with bodysuits, bears, strollers! The color scheme is delicate - blue or pink, but there are exceptions. In short, there is no limit to creativity! The main entertainment at the "babishauer" is, of course, receiving gifts. Actually, this is where the name baby shower came from - it literally means “fill up with gifts” of the unborn baby. Often in the program of the party there are special postcards, for example, in the form of bodysuits, on which each guest leaves a wish for the future baby, ”says Ekaterina.

Prepare the dowry for the baby. Buying tiny bodysuits, booties and caps will get you a lot positive emotions. You can't even imagine how exciting it is! However, wait for the "babishauer" first - perhaps your friends will give you a lot of useful things that will allow you to avoid unnecessary expenses. The most rational expectant mothers usually make a wish list and send it to those invited to the party, but in this case there will be no surprise.

19. Eat right

Victoria Dyakova, nutriclub.ru expert, specialist in baby food and a psychologist, claims that the first rule of rational nutrition for the expectant mother is not to starve: allow yourself to have a light snack between main meals. Try to make your diet varied and balanced. Your daily menu should include freshly squeezed juices, soups and dairy products. Also, fish, lean meat, eggs are very useful for pregnant women - all foods rich in iron and other useful substances. Do not eat canned foods, sausages, sausages. And if you really want something sweet - give preference to natural jams and fruits, instead of buns and chocolate.

20. Plan an original late pregnancy photoshoot

Today, such “pregnant” photosets are classics of the genre. Believe me, over time you will look at these photos again and again - this very special and in its own way beautiful state has such magic that you will be grateful to yourself for capturing this moment.

http://drmedvedev.com/

E.B. Yakovleva, O.A. Churilova

Chapter 1

Pregnancy is a physiological process of development in the female body of a fertilized egg, starting from the moment of fertilization of the egg (female reproductive cell) ripened in the ovary by a spermatozoon (male reproductive cell). Physiological pregnancy lasts an average of 10 lunar months (1 lunar month - 28 days), i.e. 40 weeks or 280 days. The entire period of pregnancy is usually divided into trimesters. The first trimester begins with fertilization and ends at 12-13 weeks, the second ends at 28 weeks, from the same period the third trimester of pregnancy begins, ending in childbirth.

Diagnosis of early pregnancy. The possibility of pregnancy can and should be considered in any woman of childbearing age who does not have her period on time or who develops amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) with regular intercourse. Thus, the first sign of pregnancy is usually the absence of menstruation at the proper time. A few days after this, most women experience nausea and even vomiting. Vomiting usually occurs once or twice a day, in the morning, immediately after getting out of bed, but it is not so severe as to cause a noticeable metabolic disorder. Frequent urination is also common in non-pregnant women in the premenstrual phase. However, in pregnant women, it is more noticeable and can give the first indication that conception has occurred. Changes in the mammary glands are also noted from the very beginning of pregnancy and are especially noticeable in first-time pregnant women. Usually a woman feels some stretch mammary glands, their soreness. The swollen mouths of the areola glands around the nipple may protrude upward, forming the so-called Montgomery tubercles. With sufficient light, swelling of the superficial veins becomes visible, especially around the nipple. The breast loses its usual softness and in it one can feel the strands of swollen glandular ducts running from the periphery to the nipple. After 16 weeks, pigmentation of the nipple becomes noticeable, especially pronounced in swarthy women.

From about the 12th week, and in thin women a little earlier, you can feel the bottom of the uterus through the anterior abdominal wall, which on the 20th week approaches the lower edge of the navel, and on the 36th - to the xiphoid process of the sternum.

Repeatedly pregnant women notice fetal movement earlier than those who become pregnant for the first time. The first usually notice a stir between the 16th and 18th week, and the second - between the 19th and 21st. Data on these sensations can be very important for determining the duration of pregnancy and the upcoming birth, so a woman should try to more accurately remember the date of the first movement of the fetus.

There are also special methods for diagnosing pregnancy. In doubtful cases, a woman can determine the onset of pregnancy by using express pregnancy tests sold in pharmacies, or by conducting an immunological hormone test at the antenatal clinic. Modern diagnostic ultrasound devices allow you to establish pregnancy with a minimum period of 2-3 weeks. The accuracy of diagnosis increases with dynamic observation, transvaginal scanning (when a special sensor is inserted into the lumen of the vagina and the study is carried out as if from the inside).

Every pregnant woman must be registered in the antenatal clinic, and the sooner the better. Indeed, in the early stages of pregnancy, she still accurately remembers the days of the last menstruation, and the reliability of the information can be verified during an examination conducted by a gynecologist. In addition, during this period, the doctor needs to obtain initial data on the pulse rate, blood pressure, blood hemoglobin level, body weight, so that if they change at a later date, the situation can be quickly assessed and, if necessary, the necessary measures can be taken without delay. . It is during this period that the doctor needs to identify concomitant diseases of internal organs, such as hypertension or heart disease, peptic ulcer or diabetes, which ultimately can have a significant impact on the condition of the expectant mother and her child and, accordingly, modify the tactics of managing a pregnant woman.

In addition, the primary medical examination includes the determination of the blood type, Rh factor, as well as serological tests for syphilis and HIV infection.

If a woman is 35 years old or older, then there is a risk of chromosomal abnormalities that can lead to the development of various fetal malformations and diseases (the most common is Down's disease). In these cases, the doctor will recommend undergoing a special examination - amniocentesis. In addition, women undergo an ultrasound examination, which is permissible at any time (its harmlessness has been confirmed by numerous studies that have been conducted for more than 30 years all over the world).

In pregnant women, skin pigmentation often increases, especially pronounced on the face, around the nipples and the white line of the abdomen (more bright in brunettes compared to blondes). Longitudinal stripes (pregnancy striae) appear on the abdomen and thighs, 5-6 cm long and about 0.5 cm wide. At first they are pink, but then they become pale and slightly compacted.

Birthmarks appear in more than 50% of pregnant women. The intensity of the sebaceous and sweat glands during pregnancy increases.

Summing up, we can say that during pregnancy there are profound changes in physiological functions aimed at meeting the needs of the developing fetus and compensating for those physical changes in the mother's body that are caused by these changes. At each stage of pregnancy, physiological changes are aimed at meeting the needs of the fetus and provide such reserves that allow it to grow and develop continuously.

Although it is rightly believed that pregnancy is a physiological state of the body and many women are ready for a harmonious relationship with an unborn child, it is known that pregnancy is also a period of stress and stress, and that only a few women have it without functional or organic disorders of varying severity.

Chapter 2

Now that pregnancy has come, it's time to seriously take care of proper nutrition. During pregnancy, the food you eat affects both the pregnant woman and her baby. However, there is no need to eat "for two". In this regard, one very important rule should be remembered: quality is not due to quantity.

It should be remembered that the period of pregnancy is not the time for weight loss through the use of special diets!

With the right selection of foods among the four groups below, you and your child are guaranteed a varied and balanced diet.

1. Dairy products contain proteins necessary for the growth of the child and the needs of the mother's body, as well as trace elements (calcium) necessary for strengthening bones and teeth.

In this regard, it is advisable to consume up to 0.5 liters of milk per day both in whole form and in the form of lactic acid products (kefir, yogurt, dairy desserts, yogurts), as well as cottage cheese. It is useful to include hard cheeses in the diet, such as cheddar, processed cheeses, and pasteurized cheese.

2. Meat products contain proteins, iron and B vitamins,
also necessary both to meet the needs of the mother's body, and for the development of the child.

This group includes beef, pork, lamb, poultry, fish. It is advisable to use products from this group twice a day. It is advisable to give preference to poultry and fish. Try to eat only lean meat, removing areas containing fat during the cooking process.

All meat, poultry and fish products should be eaten boiled or baked, avoiding fried and smoked dishes.

The skin of poultry should always be removed before cooking.

White meat is leaner than red meat.

The sirloin of beef, pork and lamb is the most lean.

All sausages and sausages contain a lot of fat. Eggs deserve special attention: they must be boiled hard, and only protein should be used for food.

3. Bread, cereals, potatoes contain carbohydrates, vitamins, trace elements and fiber.

The products of this group include bread, preferably from whole grains or wholemeal flour, potato dishes, pasta, rice, cereals from various kinds cereals, muesli or cereal. Dishes from the products of this group should be included in the diet at every meal.

4. Fruits and vegetables contain a variety of vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain various body functions, and fiber to improve digestion.

A number of crops, such as peas, beans, beans, lentils, cabbage, as well as dried fruits, are rich in iron. However, the absorption of iron from these products during their use is less active than from meat products. To improve this process, you should simultaneously use foods rich in vitamin C.

Vegetables and fruits should be included in the diet at least four times a day. Try to eat vegetables and fruits with skins whenever possible.

The correct distribution of products for each meal is important. So, meat, fish, cereals should be part of breakfast and lunch dishes, because protein-rich foods increase metabolism and linger in the stomach for a long time. In the afternoon, in the late afternoon, preference should be given to dairy and vegetable foods. Abundant food intake in the evening has a negative effect on the body of a pregnant woman, contributes to the disruption of normal rest and sleep.

It is advisable to eat food during the day in 5-7 doses. The total amount of liquid consumed should be 1.2-1.5 liters per day, including water, tea, coffee, soups.

Salt intake is limited in the second half of pregnancy to 8 g per day, since a larger amount contributes to water retention in the body and the development of edema.

Permissible weight gain during pregnancy

This is a question that worries everyone. During the entire pregnancy, for 40 weeks, the total weight gain should be on average in the range of 9.5 to 12.5 kg. At the same time, in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, the weight gain should be about 2.5 kg, at the rate of 500 g per month. And in the second half of pregnancy (next 20 weeks), weight gain can be 10 kg at the rate of 500 g per week.

For a more accurate assessment of the allowable weight gain during pregnancy, you can use the following data.

First you need to calculate your body mass index (BMI) using the following formula: divide the initial weight by the square of height (m). According to the result, if the BMI is less than 19.8, then the weight is considered reduced. If the BMI is between 19.8 and 26, the body weight is normal. If the BMI is higher, the body weight is overweight. Further, using the table, you can determine the necessary weight gain for a certain period of pregnancy.

In the normal course of pregnancy, an increase in the body weight of a pregnant woman primarily occurs due to the size of the uterus and the number amniotic fluid, mammary glands, growth

the volume of fluid and blood in the body and, last but not least, due to the accumulation of fat (1.5-1.7 kg).

If you suddenly notice that you have an excessive increase in body weight or the rate of weight gain is excessive, then pay attention to whether foods that are very advisable to exclude during pregnancy have accidentally appeared in your diet, namely: jam, marmalade, chocolate , chocolate biscuits, muffins, cakes, pies, cream, ice cream, sugared fruits, as well as chips, crisps, sausages, sausages, fatty meats, mayonnaise.

Reception alcoholic beverages, including beer, is completely unacceptable, even in small quantities.

How much do we weigh in grams? Why is it important to control weight during pregnancy and how to do it?

Everyone knows that a pregnant woman puts on weight. But the fact that the health of the child, the nature of the course of childbirth and the well-being of the future mother depend on the size of this increase, many simply do not realize. It is not enough just to put on weight, the main thing is to do it right.

Every day on the scales

At each visit to the antenatal clinic, the doctor will monitor your weight, but in some cases daily monitoring is required. In addition, many doctors (mostly of the old school) do not consider it necessary to remind

expectant mother about weight control.

It is most convenient to weigh yourself every day at the same time, for example, in the morning, immediately after waking up, or in the evening, before going to bed. This way you will get the most accurate daily and weekly weight gain. You can even build a graph to visually see how your baby is growing. For many women, every upward deviation of the scale arrow causes horror, especially if before pregnancy they constantly lost weight and struggled with being overweight. So, “pregnant” weight gain and excess weight are not the same thing. Excess weight is fatty deposits, which are then quite difficult to part with. And weight gain during pregnancy is a kind of temporary shelter for your child, which will disappear after nine months, and in order to avoid problems with the figure after childbirth, it is necessary to gain “pregnant” weight correctly. Do not worry about every extra gram - take a look at the table and you will understand what your weight gain is made up of.

How much does happiness weigh

Placenta - 680 g; amniotic fluid - 1000 g; uterus - 1100 g; breast tissue - 900 g; blood volume - 1600 g; child - 3400

Add to this the fluid accumulating in the body and the increased body fat, and it turns out that the weight gain is about 11 kg. Naturally, these figures are quite approximate, and there is nothing to worry about if your weight gain is a little more or, conversely, a little less than 11 kg. A weight gain of 9 to 12 kg is considered normal. An approximate scheme for optimal weight gain is as follows: in the first trimester, weight gain should be about 1500 grams, in the second trimester - 5000 grams and in the third trimester - 4000 grams. If you do not fit into this scheme and weight gain does not occur evenly, but in jumps, if you have added more than 500 grams within a week or, conversely, you have not gained a single gram within two weeks, be sure to inform your doctor about this.

There is one exception here. Weight gain can be caused by the accumulation of excess fluid in the body, so if you notice that your legs and arms swell, your shoes become small in the evening, wedding ring does not fit on the desired finger, the eyelids look swollen and the whole face is swollen, as if with a hangover, be sure to inform the doctor about this. Perhaps there is too much salt on your menu, which retains fluid, or (which is already much worse) the kidneys cannot cope with the increased load.

Starting point

The weight of a woman before pregnancy is the so-called reference point, to which we will add grams. First of all, you need to decide what is considered the norm. As a rule, they proceed from the ratio: height minus 110. That is, with a height of 170 cm, your optimal weight should be 60 kg (170 - 110 = 60). This is the norm.

If your pre-pregnancy weight is more than 20% over normal, you should carefully monitor your diet and do not overeat.

(especially in the first trimester). But it is also impossible to go on a strict diet - the child will not be able to grow only at the expense of the mother's fat deposits, since they do not have the necessary set of nutrients.

Overweight women should try to add no more than 300 g per week in the first and second trimester, and 200 g per week in the third trimester.

If by the time of pregnancy your weight is significantly less than normal, then during the first trimester you should eat more calories so that the second trimester begins with normal. The weight gain scheme for underweight women is as follows: first trimester - 800 g per month, second trimester - 2400 g per month and third trimester - 2000 g per month.

Six big misconceptions

There are a number of dangerous misconceptions about weight gain. Misconception 1. The more the expectant mother puts on weight, the larger and stronger the baby will be born.

Of course, the weight of the child at birth depends on the weight gain of the mother during pregnancy, but this relationship is not direct. The optimal weight for a newborn is considered to be from 2900 to 3800 g. A child with a lower weight is too weak and susceptible to various diseases, and a fetus that is too large can complicate the course of childbirth. As a rule, if the expectant mother eats properly, takes vitamins and has gained from 9 to 12 kg during pregnancy, then the child will be born with a normal weight. If the weight gain exceeds 20 kg (due to too abundant and high-calorie nutrition), then this does not mean at all that a large and healthy baby will be born. In this case, the child's weight may even be less than 2 kg, because the child does not need extra calories, he needs nutrients, and if the mother's diet is high-calorie, but not nutritious, the baby does not gain weight.

Misconception 2. The best way to get rid of toxicosis is to stop eating, and at the same time you will lose weight.

The mechanism of occurrence of toxicosis is not yet fully understood. But scientists believe that it is more pronounced in women whose diet lacks protein. So in most cases, toxicosis is one of the consequences of an unbalanced diet. If you stop eating at all (until you stop feeling sick), toxicosis can only increase, because the stomach continues to produce gastric juice, and you will feel sick not from food, but from hunger. And only the process of digestion will help remove excess acid from the stomach and prevent an attack of nausea. With toxicosis, due to nausea and vomiting, the body of the expectant mother loses fluid, and with it the microelements necessary for the development of the child, therefore, even with severe toxicosis, one cannot completely refuse food even for several days. You need to find foods that don't make you sick. If toxicosis is too severe and leads to significant weight loss (up to 20 kg), this is already a serious complication and must be treated.

Misconception 3. Weight gain does not affect the health of the child. It depends only on the weight of the child at birth.

Weight gain in no way affects only the development of all kinds of genetic abnormalities that are laid at conception. In other cases, the development of the child is directly related to the nutrition of the expectant mother and her weight gain. Every calorie, every milligram of vitamins and nutrients a child can get only from his mother's body. And insufficient intake of essential vitamins and nutrients affects not only weight, but also the development of the fetus. It is especially important to monitor the uniform growth of the weight curve in the first and last trimesters of pregnancy. In the first trimester of pregnancy, the skeletal system and internal organs of the child are formed and intensively developed: kidneys, liver, heart. And in the third trimester, when most of the internal organs are already formed, the brain develops. And the task of a pregnant woman is to provide the unborn child with the necessary building material (vitamins and microelements). With insufficient or, conversely, excessive weight gain, disturbances in the formation and development of vital systems and the brain can occur.

Misconception 4. If you go on a diet a few days before the birth and do not gain weight, it will be easier to give birth.

Indeed, women who were thin before pregnancy with optimal weight gain give birth easier than fat women who did not limit themselves to food during pregnancy and gained more than 20 kg. Israeli scientists have concluded that a low-calorie diet in the last weeks of pregnancy can lead to premature birth. By the way, often one or two weeks before the birth, the weight of the expectant mother naturally decreases by about 500 g (if she does not overeat). Losing weight without special diets is a sure sign of approaching labor.

Misconception 5. With a second pregnancy, weight gain is much greater, especially if the difference between childbirth and a new pregnancy is less than three years.

Indeed, with repeated births, the weight of the newborn usually increases somewhat, but this does not greatly affect weight gain. Regardless of whether your first pregnancy or fifth, the optimal weight gain should not exceed 12 kilograms. But many women approach their second pregnancy without having time to lose weight after the first birth (especially if the gap between a new pregnancy and childbirth is small), and they perceive those extra pounds as weight gain. It should be remembered that the weight with which you approach pregnancy is only yours and no one else's, and you should not write off extra pounds for weight gain. On the contrary, with a second pregnancy, the “net” weight gain is somewhat less than with the first.

Misconception 6. The body of a pregnant woman knows what he needs, and you should not limit yourself in food.

This is partly true, but, I repeat, only partly. As a rule, a pregnant woman intuitively feels products that are harmful to the baby and refuses them. So, for example, an avid coffee lover or sweet tooth suddenly feels that instead of coffee or dark chocolate, she wants to drink freshly squeezed juice or eat an apple, but sometimes a woman cannot distinguish the desires of the body from her whims. Often, having become pregnant, a woman realizes that now she can be capricious and no one will reproach her. And if earlier she could not afford to eat black caviar for breakfast with spoons, and order lunch in a Japanese restaurant, now she can treat herself (and at the same time the unborn child) with delicacies. Well, if you suddenly want to eat quite specific things (for example, chalk, ash or lime), this is a sure sign of a lack of nutrients. Be sure to tell your doctor about your taste quirks so that he picks up the optimal complex of vitamins and minerals for you.

Chapter 3. Mode of work and rest of a pregnant woman

Every expectant mother should be aware that pregnancy is a state of the body that requires a special approach, that is, appropriate changes in behavior, in the usual way of life of a pregnant woman.

From the very beginning of establishing the fact of pregnancy, a woman is obliged to do everything necessary to maintain her physical and psychological health and take care of the full development of the child for his subsequent safe birth. For this purpose, every pregnant woman must accustom herself to follow a daily routine designed specifically for expectant mothers, which has a beneficial effect on maintaining their healthy condition and the course of pregnancy.

Separately, it is necessary to mention a few of the most important rules that every pregnant woman should follow. Physical overexertion should be avoided, i.e. First of all, do not overload yourself with hard physical work that requires considerable effort, frequent bending of the body, as well as being in an uncomfortable position for a long time. In a word, heavy physical activity is in every possible way contraindicated for pregnant women and can cause serious disturbances in the development of the fetus and even cause premature birth or miscarriage.

In addition, you should completely refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol, listening to loud music, tiring sports (of course, except for gymnastics for pregnant women), you should also refrain from taking hot baths and visiting the bathhouse, avoid standing for a long time and staying in a sitting position, swimming in natural reservoirs (and in cold water in general), excessive sunbathing and generally long exposure to open sunlight.

As for swimming in water bodies (the sea), they are not contraindicated if the pregnancy proceeds without complications and if the water body is ecologically clean. Otherwise, you should refrain from swimming or replace it with swimming in an indoor pool.

With regard to professional work, a pregnant woman can work until the very birth, if the work is not associated with physical and psychological stress (for example, women engaged in mental work, etc.). But even simple work in large quantities is somehow associated with overstrain and can cause a deterioration in the general well-being of a pregnant woman, so in the second trimester you should limit yourself to work.

During sedentary work, it is better for a pregnant woman to put her feet on a stand or shift them to a nearby chair several times a day. This will facilitate the outflow of blood and protect against varicose veins - one of the most common complications during pregnancy. In addition, it is necessary from time to time (preferably every hour) to get up from a chair and do light gymnastic exercises that allow you to use all the muscles (and especially the pelvic muscles), as well as prevent blood stasis in the organs to avoid swelling, normalize breathing.

But for pregnant women, whose work requires walking or standing for a long time, during pregnancy it is better (if possible) to change activities, give up work and take another vacation or vacation at their own expense.

By the way, maternity leave should be taken from about the 7th month (30 weeks) of pregnancy. In addition, the Labor Code stipulates certain important points regarding the work of a woman during pregnancy, legal maternity leave and the protection of her rights.

Both in the first and in the second half of pregnancy, a woman can also continue to do her usual chores, housework (washing, ironing, cleaning the apartment, etc.). It is advisable to establish a reasonable regime of work and rest, allowing you to alternate one with the other, especially in the second half of pregnancy.

Over longer periods, the body weight of a woman increases due to the growth of the fetus and, consequently, the overall load on the legs and spine of the expectant mother increases, therefore, in order to avoid swelling and pain in the legs, in the lumbar region and spine, a pregnant woman should take a semi-horizontal position that is convenient for her as often as possible. position so that the organs fully rest.

Regarding the daily regimen of a pregnant woman, the issue of sleep is very important. In the first months, the duration of sleep remains familiar to every woman. But usually during pregnancy, rapid fatigue is observed, as a result of which dizziness and increased drowsiness appear. Therefore, the duration of sleep for a pregnant woman should be at least 8~9 hours.

The most optimal time for this is from 22 pm to 7 am. In addition, the expectant mother (especially in the second half of pregnancy) is recommended to rest (sleep) during the day (1-2 hours after lunch), optimally - from 14 to 16 hours. But you should not sleep for a long time during the day, as this can disrupt nighttime dream. In the event that you do not want to sleep during the day, after dinner, a daytime walk or homework, it is recommended to rest lying down.

Separately, it should be said that for hygiene reasons, a pregnant woman should sleep in a separate bed and change bed linen regularly (at least once a week), while always using a duvet cover and pillow case. Even more often, a woman needs to change her underwear ( nightgown), since during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes in the body, there is more profuse sweating, especially during sleep. Use a shower at a temperature of 35-40 ° C. The total duration of washing should not exceed 15-20 minutes. In addition, it is advisable to take a shower after cleaning the apartment, a long trip or a walk outside the city. During the morning and evening toilet (before going to bed), it is necessary to thoroughly brush your teeth (2 times a day), because during pregnancy, the oral cavity and teeth of a woman require especially careful care.

In order to improve sleep, a pregnant woman's room should be well ventilated several times a day, especially before bedtime. In case of sleep disturbance (which is quite possible during pregnancy), it is better to consult a doctor who will prescribe an appropriate sedative. But oversleeping for a pregnant woman is also undesirable, because in this case the whole regime is violated.

Since nutrition during pregnancy is one of the main and important factors in its normal course and maintaining the health of the mother, meals should be taken at the same hours. And it is most important for a pregnant woman to have breakfast on time, and it is better not immediately after getting up, but at least half an hour later, in order to avoid nausea and vomiting characteristic of the morning hours. After breakfast, if a woman feels well, she may well go to the grocery store or do housework. The apartment in which the pregnant woman lives must be kept clean, therefore, the simple duties of the expectant mother include daily dry cleaning of the room (apartment), dusting the furniture and airing the rooms.

In addition, it is necessary to do a thorough wet cleaning at least twice a week.

It is useful for a pregnant woman at least twice a day - in the morning (after getting up and before breakfast) and in the afternoon (1 hour before lunch or 2 hours after it) - to perform additional gymnastic exercises that are useful for the development of the unborn child.

Usually, in each antenatal clinic, group physical classes for pregnant women are organized and conducted, as well as special breathing exercises. It should be remembered that if in the first half of pregnancy most of the exercises are carried out in a standing position, then in the second half - mostly sitting or lying down.

The need for oxygen during pregnancy increases by 30-40%, since the breathing of the fetus depends on the full breathing of the expectant mother (after all, he needs air for the normal development of the lungs and the further growth of the whole organism). And the blood is especially actively saturated with oxygen during walks on fresh air.

It is desirable for the expectant mother to be outdoors for at least 2-3 hours a day, while it is not necessary to walk for a long time, it is enough to go outside several times and walk for an hour. Walking during pregnancy is best done at certain hours: in the morning from 10 to 11 a.m., in the evening from 18 to 19 p.m., before going to bed - from 20 to 21 p.m. In the last months of pregnancy, a woman, for her own safety, should walk accompanied by someone from relatives.

In addition to following the basic routine, every pregnant woman is required to regularly visit a antenatal clinic, her obstetrician-gynecologist, take the necessary tests and strictly follow all medical instructions. Every pregnant woman should plan her schedule in such a way as to have time to do everything necessary before giving birth. In the first stages of pregnancy, it is necessary to include in your schedule a visit to the dentist, as well as other specialists (endocrinologist, urologist), in order to undergo all the required examinations and prevent the development of possible diseases.

In the second half of pregnancy (at the 6-7th month), you can start attending courses for expectant mothers, in which a pregnant woman can get a lot useful information about nutrition, how to do special exercises, how to behave during the first contractions, how to breathe correctly during labor and childbirth, etc. Usually such courses are held 2~3 times a week (sometimes more often).

It is necessary to choose the most suitable time for % attendance of courses, so as not to violate the established schedule. Here they will also teach how to care for a newborn in the first months of his life, how to feed, swaddle a child, take him in his arms correctly, bathe him, give him massage and developing gymnastics, and many other useful skills.

Chapter 4. Possible Related Problems and Solutions

Nausea. This unpleasant phenomenon often occurs in the first three months of pregnancy, mainly in the morning. To prevent nausea, when waking up in the morning and still in bed, try eating a small slice of dry bread, toast, or a slice of an apple. If you feel nausea throughout the day, then take small breaks between meals of a small amount of food, but so that the total amount of food taken per day does not decrease. Otherwise, long intervals between meals can provoke vomiting. In some cases, this can be avoided by eating cold food, which has no less nutritional qualities than hot dishes. Sometimes different culinary smells can also cause nausea, which leads to the avoidance of fried foods or dishes with various spices.

Heartburn is a frequent companion of pregnancy, occurring in most women for the first time in the absence of acute or chronic pathology of the gastrointestinal tract. This suggests a causal relationship between heartburn and pregnancy. The main cause of heartburn during pregnancy is an increase in intra-abdominal pressure due to an increase in the uterus.

By the 30th week, about a third of all pregnant women complain of frequent heartburn, and by the 38th week their number increases to 99%. The duration of heartburn is from several minutes to several hours, and it can be repeated several times a day, intensifying in a horizontal position, when turning from one side to the other (some pregnant women pay attention to the fact that heartburn is more disturbing on the left side). Heartburn can be provoked by forward bending of the torso, a plentiful meal, and sleeping on a low pillow.

To prevent or get rid of heartburn:

Avoid large meals, try to eat often and in small portions;

Do not eat fried, fatty, smoked foods and foods;

Do not drink strong tea and coffee;

Eat food without haste, slowly;

Do not bend or lie down immediately after eating.

If these techniques do not relieve you of the listed unpleasant phenomena, seek the advice of a doctor.

To eliminate nausea and heartburn, there are a number of medications, many of which are undesirable or contraindicated during pregnancy. However, several decades ago, alginate formulations appeared in pharmacy. Alginates are natural substances derived from brown algae. In the acidic environment of the stomach, they turn into a thick viscous gel within a few minutes after ingestion. The composition of alginate includes substances that, in the presence of hydrochloric acid of gastric juice, turn the gel into foam, due to which the gel floats on the surface of the contents of the stomach, like a raft on water. Such a “raft” is a barrier that prevents the reflux of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus, and also envelops the walls of the esophagus, protecting the mucous membrane, thus eliminating heartburn. The ability of alginate formulations to form a floating foam in the stomach and eliminate heartburn led to the development of a drug.

In order to prevent food poisoning caused by dangerous pathogens of intestinal infections, such as salmonella or listeria, it is advisable not to eat during pregnancy:

Soft unpasteurized cheeses such as brie, camembert, stilton, etc.;

Any pastes;

Raw or soft-boiled eggs;

Homemade dishes that include raw eggs: mousses, homemade ice cream, etc.;

Insufficiently thermally processed meat (meat with blood).

As a rule, during pregnancy, many women develop a tendency to constipation, which increases with increasing duration. To ensure the normal functioning of the intestines, a healthy pregnant woman is advised to eat more roughage. Proper, varied nutrition helps to avoid constipation, bloating, as a result of which the stomach does not put pressure on the uterus and the fetus develops fully.

The intestines of a pregnant woman should act at certain hours, best in the morning and preferably in the evening. If the necessary diet and diet are followed, the intestines of a pregnant woman usually act independently. In cases where its activity is disturbed, it is necessary to consult a doctor for advice on which remedies should be used for constipation.

Most often, you can get by with a regular enema, putting it at the right time, but if there is a threat of termination of pregnancy, the enema is contraindicated, since the process of childbirth and the process of peristalsis are controlled by the same muscles and the enema can provoke premature birth. And the use of laxatives for a pregnant woman is undesirable, as is the use of many other drugs.

Toxoplasmosis during pregnancy

In severe cases, the disease is accompanied by fever, joint and muscle pain, and a patchy rash. The most dangerous damage to the nervous system by toxoplasmosis (development of meningoencephalitis). acute form Toxoplasmosis is most commonly seen in people who are immunocompromised (eg, with HIV infection).

Many have heard about the dangers of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women. Hence the advice to kick the cat out of the house, and panic from any scratch. However, not everything is so scary.

The risk to the fetus is only the primary infection of the mother with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy. That is, if you had been ill with them once upon a time, then it will not have any effect on the fetus. But even with primary infection, the risk of infection of the fetus is not 100 percent. In the first trimester, the risk of infection when the mother is ill is 15-20%, in the second - 30%, in the third - 60%. However, although the risk of infection increases with gestational age, the severity of clinical manifestations decreases.

After the initial infection with toxoplasmosis, pregnancy can be planned in six months.

How does toxoplasmosis occur?

Human infection occurs either by eating the meat of infected animals, or by ingesting the feces of an infected cat (most often with street dust or soil) into the human body.

In general, sadly, cat feces with toxoplasma surround us everywhere, and it is extremely difficult to protect ourselves from the disease. But this has its advantages: most women had had toxoplasmosis in a latent form even before pregnancy, have immunity, and now, even in anticipation of a baby, they are not afraid of any cats. The main sources are still uncooked meat and street dust. When it enters the external environment through cat feces, the pathogen remains active for up to two years.

Diagnosis of toxoplasmosis

When planning a pregnancy, it is important for a doctor not only to identify the presence of an infection in the body, but also to determine whether it is fresh or old. For this in

blood, immunoglobulins of class M and O are examined. For the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, blood PCR is sometimes prescribed.

In order to accurately determine whether the fetus is infected (when a primary infection is detected in the mother), it is recommended to study the amniotic fluid by amniocentesis (the fetal bladder is pierced with a thin needle through the anterior abdominal wall).

Ultrasound in an infected fetus can determine an increase in the liver and spleen, expansion of the ventricles of the brain, intracranial calcifications. The placenta may be thickened, and calcifications may also be detected in it.

Treatment of toxoplasmosis

Treatment is carried out only at primary infection!

Drugs that affect toxoplasma can only be used after 12 weeks of pregnancy (some only after 16 weeks), as they themselves can have a harmful effect on the fetus. Usually the pathogen is not completely destroyed, the treatment is mainly aimed at reducing its activity.

Prevention

Prevention is most important during pregnancy, and for those women who have never “met” with Toxoplasma before and do not have immunity to it.

When working in the garden, wear gloves so that the earth does not get on the skin. There may be microcracks on the skin, and toxoplasma in the ground. Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly.

It is also better to cut raw meat with gloves, or at least after that you need to wash your hands. Thoroughly fry or boil the meat, refuse steaks with blood during pregnancy.

If you have a cat, let someone else clean her toilet.

You should not kiss your beloved pet, because in case of acute infection of a cat, Toxoplasma can be found in its saliva and nasal discharge.

You can take a cat's feces for analysis to determine if it is infected with toxoplasmosis.

Chapter 5

The birth of a child is a very responsible process, and therefore requires careful preparation.

During pregnancy and childbirth, metamorphoses affect the entire body of the expectant mother. The belly is rapidly increasing in size, and the breast is preparing to feed the baby. In addition, the expectant mother should learn to control her breathing and intimate muscles, then nothing will overshadow the celebration of the birth of your child, and you can quickly recover after childbirth.

During pregnancy, not only the stomach, but also the breasts increase significantly in size. The mammary gland consists of 15-20 glandular lobules and muscle mass. Now your breasts are preparing for lactation, the milk lobules are significantly increasing in size, sometimes in the middle or late periods, colostrum begins to be produced in women. Very often, young mothers in the first days of breastfeeding face a number of difficulties: the child refuses to breastfeed, the nipples crack, hurt, etc. To avoid these troubles and quickly establish breast-feeding, it is necessary to prepare the breast for feeding even during pregnancy.

Here much depends on individual features chest structures. For some women, the shape of the breast is ideal for breastfeeding. But, unfortunately, such a chest is quite rare. In modern mothers (primiparous), one can often observe a flat or inverted nipple. In this case, it is difficult for the child, and sometimes it is simply impossible to capture it with his mouth. To help the baby get food, the mother should prepare the nipples for feeding during pregnancy. To do this, you can wear special pads that stretch the nipple, or pull it out with a breast pump. It is desirable to do this from the 20th to the 36th week of pregnancy. After the 36th week, it is better not to stimulate the breast so as not to provoke premature birth.

In order to avoid cracked nipples and pain during feeding, it is useful to massage the breast under contrast shower. The movements should be circular and directed from top to bottom, towards the middle of the chest. It is undesirable to wash the nipple and areola with soap, as it dries the skin and leads to the formation of cracks. After a shower, it is useful to rub the nipples with a terry towel. Except In addition, a special oil for preparing nipples for feeding has recently appeared on sale. If from the 30-36th week of pregnancy this oil is applied after a shower, it will help prevent nipple injuries and pain during feeding.

After cessation of lactation

glandular lobules decrease and return to their original state. Only in very rare cases, they become even slightly smaller than the prenatal size. But muscle tissue already during pregnancy, under the influence of the heavy weight of the breast and a number of other factors, decreases and weakens. It is the lack of muscle tissue that causes the reduction and sagging of the breast after the cessation of lactation. And usually than bigger breasts, the more it sags, since more elastic muscles are required to maintain it. Lactation in itself does not have a very strong effect on the breast. But sometimes women themselves involuntarily spoil their breasts. There are a few simple rules that must be followed to reduce the risk of injury to the breast.

First, you need to choose the right bra. As early as the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy, you may need a larger bra. But, in addition to the size, it is necessary to change the style of underwear. During pregnancy, it is better to give preference to closed models, pitted, on wide shoulder straps, with an adjustable closure and an elastic back that supports the bust. By the way, in the last weeks before childbirth and during feeding, it is desirable to support the breast around the clock. Only at night you need to choose a more free model. Secondly, it is desirable to abandon manual pumping. During feeding, the child practically does not harm the breast and does not injure the mammary gland, and when manually pumping, the woman stretches the muscles very much, which then rarely return to their original state. Therefore, for pumping, it is desirable to use breast pumps that imitate sucking movements. And thirdly, follow the basic rules of hygiene and avoid milk stagnation from the first days.

intimate muscles

Intimate, or, in scientific terms, perineococcygeal, muscles include the sphincter muscles, the input and internal muscles of the vagina. The more elastic the muscles, the easier and more painless they pass.

childbirth and less risk of ruptures. In addition, with trained vaginal muscles, blood circulation in the lower spine and pelvic organs normalizes, thereby preventing the development of hemorrhoids, menstrual pain decreases, the likelihood of inflammation of the appendages and a number of gynecological diseases decreases. You have no idea how stretched and relaxed these muscles are during pregnancy and especially during natural childbirth! Thanks to trained vaginal muscles, childbirth in Oriental women pass quite quickly and painlessly, and ruptures or episiotomy of the perineum are extremely rare phenomena, which cannot be said about Europeans. In addition, stretched vaginal muscles make it difficult to achieve orgasm (both male and female).

A serious program for wumbling (training of intimate muscles) was developed by the famous gynecologist Arnold Kegel. Now his exercises are included in the programs of many schools for expectant mothers. First of all, you need to feel what kind of muscles they are and how to train them. While sitting on the toilet, try to delay urination several times. This tightens the input muscles of the vagina. Once you have felt these muscles, you can train them not only in the toilet. Try to squeeze the input muscles with maximum force and hold them in a tense state for ten seconds to five minutes. At the same time, try to breathe evenly and do not hold your breath. Perform this exercise in different positions (lying, sitting, standing) at least 20 times a day.

The next exercise is to alternately compress the sphincter muscles (near the anus) and the inlet vaginal muscles. Tighten the sphincter muscles quickly and relax them just as quickly. Then do the same with the vaginal muscles. Repeat the exercise 10-15 times. After that, you can proceed to the simultaneous training of intimate muscles and breathing. Exhale - hold your breath - squeeze the inlet vaginal muscles - inhale without relaxing the muscles - relax the muscles - exhale. Repeat the exercises with the sphincter muscles. These exercises develop skills that will be useful to you in attempts. They will teach you how to control your muscles during childbirth. By the end of pregnancy, you will find it difficult to perform these exercises. This happens because everything soft tissues around the vagina swell, as the child puts pressure on the bottom. It `s naturally. And right after giving birth, it will be difficult for you to feel these muscles. But this does not mean that they have disappeared forever. Just start doing intimate exercises, and pretty quickly everything will return to normal.

Belly and spine

For the next nine months, your belly will be your baby's home. It will grow with your child. As the belly increases, the center of gravity of the future mother is redistributed and she involuntarily wants to lean forward, stoop and take a more comfortable position. Despite the fact that the stomach grows forward, it puts a large load on the spine. If it has become difficult for you to wear a pregnant belly, then it's time to take care of the bandage. It is the bandage that relieves the load from the lower back, regulates the center of gravity and facilitates the heavy burden for the expectant mother. Doctors recommend wearing a bandage regularly, starting from the second half of pregnancy (approximately at 28-30 weeks). But if a woman feels heaviness, then it is absolutely not necessary to wait for the second half of pregnancy - you can put on a bandage as soon as it becomes necessary. Just be sure to check with your doctor. Regardless of the style of the bandage, it must be worn lying down. When a woman stands up, the muscles under the pressure of the abdomen are stretched, and it is desirable to maintain them in their original state. The bandage should not cause discomfort, squeeze the vessels or put too much pressure on the stomach. If the bandage fits the size and is properly worn, then the woman should not feel uncomfortable. If after removing the bandage, red streaks remain on the skin or you constantly want to remove the bandage, it is recommended to upgrade to a larger model. A properly selected bandage is completely harmless to the child and does not prevent him from moving freely.

Special relaxation exercises will help you relieve the load from the spine. Get on your knees, resting on your hands. Try to relax your back muscles (without bending your spine). Try to keep your head, neck and spine in line. Then gently arch your spine upwards ("cat's back") and just as smoothly return to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 5-10 times. Then gently rock your hips from side to side. Turn your head and hips to the right (as if you want to see your ponytail), then to the left. Repeat this exercise 10 times. Then combine the arching of the spine and the smooth swing of the hips. This exercise is especially useful in the last trimester of pregnancy. It helps the baby to get in the "front" position relative to the frontal curve of your abdomen, which is considered the most favorable for childbirth.

Another nuisance of a rapidly growing belly is stretch marks. Experts believe that skin elasticity is a hereditary factor. It is the genes that primarily determine how your skin is prone to stretch marks. However, you can fight your own genes with the help of modern cosmetics.

Breathe deep

The ability to breathe properly is the key to the health and harmony of the expectant mother and child. In the next nine months and during childbirth, you will have to breathe not only for yourself, but also for your baby. And the state of your baby depends on how your breathing will be (smooth and calm or frequent and intermittent). If in ordinary life we ​​use shallow (abdominal) breathing, now it is very important to learn chest (diaphragmatic) breathing. Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. Take a short breath in through your nose, then a long breath out through your mouth. Then take a deep breath in through your nose and a long breath out through your mouth. In this case, the hand lying on the stomach should not move, and the hand lying on the chest should rise and fall along with the diaphragm. Repeat each exercise 10 times. It is very helpful to sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, relax and take a deep breath. Doing these breathing exercises for a few minutes a day will help you calm down and relieve internal tension.

In addition, proper breathing will help you control yourself during childbirth and reduce the pain of contractions. At all times, in preparation for childbirth, special attention was paid to proper breathing. This is an ancient method of psychophysiological self-regulation. There are two simplest types of pain relief breathing.

The first type is shallow breathing or, as it is also called, dog breathing. Before the onset of the next contraction, the woman breathes evenly through her mouth, and as the contraction increases, she accelerates her breathing and at the peak it is almost superficial, and then when the contraction subsides, her breathing gradually returns to normal. This type of breathing is very comfortable during contractions. It is believed that it shortens contractions, relieves pain and promotes a more complete opening of the cervix. As a rule, in maternity hospitals, midwives recommend breathing like a dog. And when you try to breathe like a dog, you can’t. Then the second type of breathing remains - with the stammering of sound. With this type of breathing, with the onset of a contraction, a deep breath is taken through the mouth, and during the contraction, the air is slowly exhaled and a throat moan is emitted.

Chapter 6

stay comfortable and loose clothes. Clothing must be clean. It is necessary to avoid tightness of the chest and abdomen, especially in the second half of pregnancy.

A special bandage in the second half of pregnancy is recommended not to be worn by all women, but only with excessive stretching of the anterior abdominal wall in multiparous women, as well as with a large fetus, multiple pregnancy and polyhydramnios; with an active lifestyle (being in an upright position for more than 3 hours a day); with weak muscles of the anterior abdominal wall; curvature of the spine and osteochondrosis; pain in the lower back and back during pregnancy; with a scar on the uterus; the threat of abortion in the second or third trimester; presentation and low location of the placenta. It is very important to choose the appropriate band size. It is advisable to purchase a combined bandage, which can also be used in the postpartum period.

In order to prevent congestion in the legs, especially when varicose veins veins, it is not recommended to be in a vertical position for a long time. In these cases, it is useful to wear elastic bandages or special elastic stockings during the day.

Shoes, like clothes, should be comfortable, with wide and stable heels. High heels, of course, will have to be abandoned. The sole should be embossed to prevent falls, especially in winter. Shoes must be made from natural materials. In summer, “breathable” shoes are preferred - perforated leather or fabric; in winter from genuine leather, suede and fur. It is recommended to wear shoes while sitting, placing your foot on a stand or stool.

Watch your feet carefully. In addition to daily hygiene procedures once a day, especially in the afternoon, let your feet rest by putting under

them a rolled-up blanket or pillow. This will avoid the expansion of the veins. Contrast (alternately warm and cold) baths are recommended, as well as baths with sea salt, which strengthen not only the muscles, but also the walls of the vessels of the legs.

The golden rule of a "pregnant" wardrobe says: "Clothes should be comfortable." But this does not mean at all that your wardrobe should consist of baggy dresses and hoodie suits, on which several meters of fabric went and which completely hide the stomach. You can and should remain attractive even during pregnancy, for this you just need to choose the right wardrobe.

The right style will help to skillfully present a round dignity, gently emphasize the tummy or, conversely, divert attention from it: you will find something in specialized stores for expectant mothers or in stores that sell clothes in large sizes. Perhaps a couple of things should be sewn on your own or ordered from dressmakers.

Fashion designers who specialize in clothing for expectant mothers advise you to wear the models that you would normally choose. If, for example, you associate an evening dress with a trouser suit - go ahead! Famous designers suggest not to hide your belly. Long y-neck and Open back emphasize the beauty of a pregnant woman.

Shimmering fabrics, unusual finishes - everything is the same, only taking into account the prominent part of the body and the desired comfort for the two of you. By the way, many thin women during pregnancy have those very rounded shapes that they had only dreamed of before. Do not hide them, but show them to others, emphasizing them with a flowing dress that gently envelops the figure, or a deep neckline. Well, plump arms and shoulders will hide an elegant stole.

Dress code for expectant mothers

You can not wear things that put pressure on the stomach, so pants and skirts with an elastic band or a special belt should be preferred. The style should provide for adjusting the size of the waist, then you will not experience inconvenience as the figure changes, and the child will not “outrage” in response to the pressure exerted.

Socks and stockings should not dig into the legs to avoid venous congestion.

Fabrics should be made from natural fibers - linen, cotton, wool: they will allow the skin to breathe and relieve troubles such as allergies. Synthetics in many expectant mothers can cause skin irritation or itching.

Warm clothing should be comfortable and light. Footwear - on a stable non-slip sole. It is better to give up high heels and prefer shoes with a small platform.

It is strictly forbidden for pregnant women to wear boring and faceless clothes! The baby feels your emotional state and reacts to the color of your clothes.

Wear loose shirts that do not restrict movement, all kinds of sweaters and cardigans, long skirts on an elastic band knitted dresses free cut.

Don't skip the beach or pool. You need swimming. A beautiful one-piece elastic swimsuit or swimsuit-dress will support your rounded tummy.

As evening dress you can choose all kinds of sets with elegant blouses and dresses made of light fabrics.

Having chosen your style, stop searching and experimenting. Better duplicate the thing that suits you. Let it be made of a different fabric, a different color. It is enough to have 5 _ 6 basic things that can be combined.

Feel free to borrow things from your husband's shelf and from your girlfriends who have already given birth. During pregnancy, you will recover by five or six sizes, and after giving birth, you are unlikely to wear everything that you wore when you were pregnant. It will be all the more pleasant not to put things of large sizes gathering dust on the shelves, but to give them back or pass them on “by inheritance”.

It is not necessary to buy clothes in specialized stores for expectant mothers. You can pick up something to your taste in ordinary stores or in stores for full ones. The exception is underwear and swimwear.

When purchasing clothes, give preference to things made of natural fabrics, spacious and, if possible, light colors, because due to the increased metabolism caused by pregnancy, there is a high probability of rapid overheating of the body and increased sweating.

Stick to one color

The ensemble, sustained in the same color scheme, not only slims, but also creates a holistic image. To visually “dilute” a monochromatic palette, enliven it with bright accessories (for example, a scarf) or jewelry.

Layering

The metabolic rate in a pregnant woman's body increases by about 20%, which means that when others are shaking with chills, you are exhausted from the heat. Layering allows you to get rid of clothes as needed. Pair a polo or T-shirt under your sweater in cold weather, and a long cardigan pairs well with a turtleneck sweater or turtleneck. However, don't get carried away - too many layers or layers that are too loose will make you look sloppy rather than stylish. We advise you to pay attention to special sets of sweaters for pregnant women.

Don't forget your underwear

Whatever clothes you're wearing, don't try to "squeeze" into your regular bras. Whether you are planning to spend time in the theater or relax on the couch at home, you will look and feel better in comfortable underwear that does not prick or rub in the most delicate places. Be prepared for breast augmentation (up to three sizes for some women) and choose a bra with at least two rows of hook-and-eye hooks that allow for adjustable coverage and adjustable strap lengths.

It is better to choose panties free. If you're wearing shorts, look for maternity briefs that cover your navel. Or another option: buy your favorite tanga panties or bikini a few sizes larger, and lower the elastic band under the enlarged belly.

Chapter 7

A few years ago, the word "pregnancy" was associated with the need to wear shapeless dull dresses, several times a month to sit out a long line at the antenatal clinic in order to get another list of all kinds of prohibitions. Finally, the time has come when being pregnant has become pleasant and even prestigious. From the screen, pop and movie stars talk about their "interesting position" with undisguised pleasure. Walking the streets beautiful women in bright outfits that emphasize a rounded tummy rather than hide it. Every now and then we learn that, it turns out, pregnant women go in for sports, drawing and music. And the confidence is growing stronger that the state of pregnancy is not a diagnosis, but a period of flowering of female nature, her creative abilities, her spirituality and sexuality.

If we understand sexuality not only as the ability to have sexual intercourse, but as a deep experience of love and the fullness of life in general, as a way of life for a person who is able to actively and creatively realize himself, then the topic of sexuality in relation to pregnancy becomes relevant. The famous American psychologist Alexander Lowen wrote: "Healthy children had parents who were happy in bed." Motherhood and sexuality should not be opposed to each other, these are closely related manifestations of the female essence.

Classical medicine still recommends limiting sexual activity during the first three and last three months of pregnancy. But such an unambiguous ban, alas, does not always contribute to the normal course of pregnancy and can even harm. Psychologists who deal with pregnancy problems know how important harmonious sexual relations in a couple are for a successful pregnancy. The period of pregnancy and without a ban on intimacy is a crisis in the relationship between a man and a woman. It is difficult for a man to “keep up” with the changes that begin to occur both in the body and in the inner world of his pregnant wife. Misunderstanding, tension in family relationships may begin. To prevent this from happening, a man should be aware of some features of the sexuality of a pregnant woman. Firstly, a pregnant woman experiences an increased need for tactile contact - caresses, hugs, massage.

Secondly, the female body during this period is literally full of female sex hormones, the presence of which, on the one hand, enhances the pleasant sensations of intimacy, on the other hand, can cause increased irritability. The touches of a beloved man help a woman in knowing her own body, which changes so quickly during pregnancy, relieve excessive stress, create a sense of emotional comfort and security.

One of the common misconceptions is that intimacy during pregnancy can harm the baby. This is not true. The baby is in the uterus surrounded by amniotic fluid, which protects him well even in moments of active lovemaking. In addition, a woman intuitively feels the most comfortable position for herself, in which the pressure on the stomach is not strong. The opinion that a child can receive a psychological shock from sexual relations between parents is also unfounded. The child is not yet able to evaluate the actions of the parents, he only feels the state of the mother. If a woman experiences joy and pleasure from making love, then the development of the baby is only good. The most harmonious children grow up in an atmosphere of love and tenderness.

If we talk about the physiological side of sexual contact, then I would like to emphasize its importance in preparing a woman's body for childbirth. A man's seminal fluid contains prostaglandins, hormones that soften the cervix, making it more elastic. Thus, the risk of its damage during the passage of the child during childbirth is reduced. During an orgasm, a woman's body produces oxytocin, a hormone that causes the muscles of the uterus to contract, which, in fact, causes a very pleasant sensation in a woman. The same hormone controls the process of childbirth. In addition, sexual discharge is accompanied by the production of endorphins - hormones of joy and pleasure, the same hormones are a natural pain reliever during childbirth. Isn't it a lot of coincidences? However, it should be remembered that the mechanism for the production of these hormones is very fragile, it directly depends on the general emotional state of the woman. Love and trust are the main conditions for sexual contact. The same is true for childbirth. The real cause of labor pain is stress. Those women who were lucky enough to give birth in an atmosphere of trust and love are surprised to say that they experienced sensations similar to the experience of orgasm. That is why a calm, relaxing environment created for a woman in labor, the presence of a loved one is very important for the health of mother and baby.

Recently, the topic of the presence of a man at childbirth has been especially actively discussed. Some experts competently state that the spectacle of childbirth is contraindicated for a man, as it causes them to lose sexual interest in his wife. Others defend the need for a man to participate in childbirth as an indispensable condition for a successful birth. Both of these are incorrect. It should be remembered that the relationship of each married couple is unique. For some men, it would be preferable to fully empathize with a woman during childbirth, the opportunity to be in close contact with her, to help not only by formal presence, but also by active actions. Indeed, childbirth becomes for such a couple a new facet of deep love relationships. But if a man is not internally ready to empathize with childbirth, agreed to be present at the birth only because of the persistent persuasion of the woman and is forced to remain only a detached witness, then the likelihood of such a man receiving a psychological shock is quite high. Be attentive to each other. If you want to have a positive experience of joint childbirth, take care of the appropriate preparation for childbirth and proper organization in advance. Do not leave such an important moment in your life at the mercy of blind chance.

Maintain a sense of confidence in your own attractiveness, enjoy new facets of sensuality and sexuality, and you will be surprised how easy and joyful your pregnancy and childbirth will be.

For a long time it was believed that the main purpose of a woman is to give birth and raise a child, and sex should be done only for procreation.

The reason for this is the five most common problems, by solving which, you will learn to enjoy "pregnant" sex.

Problem 1. Hormonal explosion

Your body is experiencing a strong hormonal explosion, which, of course, is reflected in your sex life. Pregnant women are unable to control their emotions and are prone to sudden mood swings.

Solution. Clearly explain to your husband what you are experiencing at the moment. After all, he, with all his desire, cannot become pregnant and, therefore, does not know about your fears and worries. Achieving sexual harmony is possible only if the spouses are attentive to the psychological and physical needs of each other. For a man now, the most important thing is not to neglect the unstable emotional state of his wife and not react to her often unfounded accusations. And you do not try to keep experiences in yourself, otherwise a real storm of emotions awaits you. Tell your husband about all your experiences, doubts and fears. Sexual satisfaction is possible only if you fully trust your partner. Over the next nine months, your mood will constantly change, and every day you will receive new emotions from sex. So don't give it up just because you didn't like it yesterday. As at the very beginning of sexual life - look for what gives you the greatest satisfaction, and what, on the contrary, causes negative emotions.

Problem 2. Three in one bed

The psychological factor plays a significant role. After all, in bed you are no longer two, but three, and it will take time to get used to this thought. It is for this reason that some men perceive a pregnant wife as a mother, and not as a woman.

Solution. It's no secret that children are not found in cabbage. The beginning of every life is given by the sexual act. It is immoral to have sex in the presence of an adult child. And for the next nine months, you and your baby are one.

Remember: the baby is good only when the mother is good. At the moment of orgasm, there is a powerful energy exchange between partners. Naturally, the fetus feels these changes, which have a beneficial effect on the pregnant woman and on him.

Scientific studies show that babies in the womb respond to the sexual games of their parents. Observations during the ultrasound show how the fetus reacts to the maternal orgasm with erratic movement and a rapid heartbeat. During intercourse, the uterus begins to contract, and for the baby, maternal orgasm is a kind of training before the upcoming birth.

Problem 3. Toxicosis

Nausea, dizziness and fatigue also do not add desire. In the morning you feel sick from just eaten breakfast, as soon as the toxicosis passes, you want to sleep, then eat again, and by the evening you are so exhausted that you don’t want to think about anything but sleep. In addition, it is terribly annoying that your husband cannot share with you all the unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy.

Solution. Move bed games to the most convenient time for you. After all, you are not sick all 24 hours a day. According to most expectant mothers, the optimal time for sex is early in the morning, before breakfast, or after a nap. Do not adapt to your husband to the detriment of your desires. The most unpleasant thing is if you feel sick from your own husband, but at the same time you want sex. In this case, try to understand what exactly irritates you: cologne, stubble, the smell of tobacco, etc., and try to eliminate the cause of irritation.

Problem 4. "Pregnant" body

The body of a woman is changing right before her eyes: the stomach is greatly enlarged, the breast becomes painful and, when excited, colostrum can flow from it. Attempts to embody your favorite sexual positions look ridiculous and do not deliver anything but inconvenience. And instead of enjoying the caresses of your husband, you want to at least hit him.

Solution. Love your "pregnant" body. Those changes in appearance that a woman is so afraid of are an additional highlight for men. The sight of a pregnant wife excites many men. Stop complexing about a huge belly. You will gain weight gradually, and the husband will have time to adapt to your new size. In the next nine months, you can be proud of your belly, it is to him that the main caresses will be turned. Of course, as your belly gets bigger, you'll have to be creative in finding comfortable positions. But diversity in sex is only welcome. Pregnancy is a time of gentle and leisurely sex without complex acrobatic stunts. And as for the chest - do not tolerate if the caresses of your husband cause you pain or discomfort. Explain to your loved one how to handle a "pregnant" bust. If colostrum begins to leak from the chest when excited, buy yourself beautiful underwear and do not take it off in bed.

Problem 5 (main). Sex is dangerous for a child

It is believed that intimate life during pregnancy can provoke a miscarriage or harm the unborn child. On the one hand, a woman really wants to do nice husband On the other hand, fear for the child does not allow you to fully relax. And instead of enjoying life, a young mother either deprives her husband of a full-fledged sexual life, or agrees to have sex only for the sake of her husband and suffers from fear for the baby.

Solution. Pregnancy is not a disease, but a double responsibility, which means caution. Therefore, some restrictions are still present. Sex is an additional risk factor. It happens that the body copes with it, but not because of it, but in spite of it. If a woman is healthy and the pregnancy proceeds without complications, you can not give up a full sexual life. But at the same time, it is necessary to carefully monitor your feelings and, if in doubt, consult a doctor. Do not be afraid that during sexual intercourse you may accidentally harm the child. It is well protected by the fetal bladder and uterus, and the amniotic fluid reliably absorbs strong shocks.

If your pregnancy is in the high-risk category, then it is necessary to refuse not only sexual intercourse, but also sexual arousal.

It is necessary to abstain from sex:

In case of multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets), doctors, regardless of the well-being of the future mother, recommend giving up sexual activity from the 20th week. This is due to the fact that with multiple pregnancies there is always a risk of premature birth, and sexual arousal can stimulate labor;

If the uterus is constantly in good shape. In this case, regardless of the gestational age, sexual intercourse can provoke uterine contractions and premature birth;

If, according to the ultrasound, you have a low location or placenta previa, sexual intercourse can cause bleeding. In this case, doctors recommend abandoning positions that provide deep penetration (a man from behind, a woman from above, etc.);

If bleeding or spotting occurs, it is recommended to refrain from sexual intercourse until a visit to the doctor;

If you have already had miscarriages and premature births, or there is a threat of miscarriage, you should refrain from sexual contact during especially dangerous periods. At the same time, the days of the alleged menstruation are considered dangerous, that is, every fourth week of the term (4, 8, 12, 16th, etc.), as well as the timing of previous miscarriages;

For any sexually transmitted diseases, as well as in cases where pregnancy occurred during treatment for sexually transmitted diseases;

2~3 weeks before the expected date of birth, most doctors recommend giving up intimacy. When sexually aroused, the female body produces the hormone oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions. The male hormone prostaglandin, contained in seminal fluid, has a similar effect. So sexual intercourse just before giving birth can cause contractions. But if a woman “walks” and labor does not begin at the expected time, doctors, on the contrary, advise stimulating the onset of labor with the help of sexual caresses.

Pregnancy is a special period in the life of a married couple. Right now, future parents, more than ever, need to feel spiritual closeness and support for each other. And often confidential conversations, gentle touches and kisses bring much more satisfaction than traditional sexual intercourse. Tell your spouse about your experiences, talk with your child together and dream. If you safely survive these nine months, then your spiritual intimacy will become even stronger, and your family will become stronger.

Chapter 8

Among all the organs of a woman, the uterus undergoes the greatest changes during pregnancy, which, under the influence of hormones and due to stretching by its growing fetus, increases significantly in all directions. At the beginning of pregnancy, the anteroposterior size increases especially noticeably, as a result of which the uterine cavity turns from a slit-shaped into a spherical one. In the first four months of pregnancy, there is a thickening of the walls of the uterus, starting from the fifth month - thinning, by the end of pregnancy, the wall thickness does not exceed 0.5 _ 1 cm. The length of the uterus (height) at the time of delivery is 37-38 cm, the transverse size - 25-26 cm, depth dimension - 24 cm. JANNshch The weight of the uterus increases by the end of pregnancy to 1000-1200 g, that is, 20 times, and the volume of the uterine cavity - more than 500 times.

The cervix becomes loose, cyanotic, rich in blood vessels. In the myometrium (the muscular layer of the uterus), significant structural changes occur, manifested in hypertrophy and hyperplasia of muscle fibers. At the same time, the connective tissue undergoes changes, which also hypertrophies and loosens.

In the first months of pregnancy, thin elastic fibers in the muscle thicken, and the nature of their location also changes.

Labor activity is always accompanied by certain hemodynamic changes. Contractions and attempts lead to a decrease in the volume of circulating blood in the myometrium, which causes its temporary hypoxia. At the end of the opening period during contractions, changes in uterine circulation are more pronounced. In normal childbirth without contractions and attempts, hemodynamics in the myometrium is quickly restored.

With the weakness of labor activity, significant deviations in hemodynamics are observed - difficulty in the inflow and outflow of blood as a result of a decrease in the vascular tone of the uterus.

One of the conditions for the development of labor activity is the optimal state of the internal environment of the body of the woman in labor.

Periods of childbirth

The birth act is divided into three periods: the period of opening of the cervix, the period of expulsion of the fetus and the postpartum period.

At the end of the intrauterine fetus maturation cycle (40 weeks), the uterus is a muscular organ (fetus) with increased tone during mechanical stimulation. Before the period of opening of the cervix begins, there is a so-called period of precursors of childbirth, or the preliminary period.

In the future, uterine contractions (contractions) become more frequent and become regular, prolonged, their intensity increases. The appearance of regular contractions indicates the onset of labor.

The period of exile is the time from the moment of full disclosure of the uterine os to the birth of the fetus.

Normally, the discharge of amniotic fluid should coincide with the full opening of the uterine os. At the same time, the volume of the uterine cavity slightly decreases, the walls of the uterus are in contact with the fetus.

The afterbirth period is the time from the birth of the fetus to the birth of the placenta.

postpartum period

Postpartum is the period after childbirth, during which the changes caused by pregnancy and childbirth disappear in the body of a woman. The postpartum period begins with the separation of the placenta and ends with the completion of the reverse development of the genital and other organs and systems of the body. It lasts an average of 6-8 weeks. However, in a woman's body, as a rule, there are "imprints" of pregnancy and childbirth for life.

Immediately after the birth of the placenta, the uterus is significantly reduced due to the contraction of the walls of the uterus. Its walls thicken, and it acquires a spherical shape. The front and back walls are adjacent to each other. The body and cervix are located in relation to each other at an angle open anteriorly.

By the end of the third week of the postpartum period, postpartum discharge from the uterus almost stops and acquires the same character as before pregnancy.

Chapter 9

It is very important to gather the necessary things for the hospital in advance. It is most convenient to put them in separate plastic bags to make it easier to navigate.

For a child: knitted or flannel hats, socks, undershirts, mittens, sliders (2-3 sets), several diapers, diapers.

A child dressed freely, quickly adapts to new conditions of life, develops faster. For Mom:

Exchange card and passport;

Comfortable clothes: a pair of long T-shirts or short nightgowns (long clothes interfere with active childbirth), bathrobe, slippers (washable, not cloth), socks, 2 bras suitable for feeding the baby, 2-3 shorts (not thongs);

Pads with maximum absorption capacity;

Toiletries, towel (if you want to take a shower or bath);

Mineral water (preferably non-carbonated);

Light, sweet, preferably dairy food (yogurt, curd mass, juice).

For dad: comfortable clothes - jeans, track pants, shorts, T-shirt or shirt, slippers (also preferably washable).

Clothes should be familiar, pre-washed and folded into a bag for the hospital. There is no need to purchase medical clothing, a mask, a cap.

Since childbirth is a long process, you can take a couple of sandwiches with you. Be sure to take a camera or camera with you to immediately capture this joyful event for your family and friends. You can take a walkman or a small player to listen to your favorite music.

The main thing you need is the confidence that the birth will go smoothly, smoothly, with a lot of positive emotions!

And… try not to forget your bag at home.

More detailed information on various topics of obstetrics and gynecology on the website:

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO TO MAKE PREGNANCY

FAVORABLE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD?

In order for pregnancy to be a joy for you and proceed without problems, only a few conditions must be met:

1.regular visits to an obstetrician-gynecologist, the implementation of all his recommendations and appointments;

2. correct mode work and rest;

3. observance of personal hygiene;

4. rational nutrition;

5. performing gymnastic exercises;

6. good psychological climate in the family, the help of your family members;

7. a positive attitude towards a favorable outcome of the upcoming birth.

MODE OF WORK AND REST

A healthy pregnant woman can perform normal work. Moderate physical activity trains your muscles, activates the activity of internal organs and increases the overall tone of the body. But from work associated with prolonged standing on your feet, with weight lifting, as well as exposure to chemicals, dust, radiation and other factors that can harm the baby, you need to refuse. There is a list of jobs from which a woman in legislative order released during pregnancy with a transfer to an easier job and pay. Business trips, overtime work, night work, weekends and holidays are prohibited.

It is undesirable to do homework that requires frequent bending. When "sedentary" work is useful to put your feet on a bench or put on a chair, which will protect them from venous stagnation of blood and the development of varicose veins.

During pregnancy, you may notice that you get tired quickly,

feel sleepy. Good sleep is very beneficial for both you and your baby. The optimal duration of a night's sleep is not

less than 8-9 hours, even better if you find the opportunity for an additional afternoon nap.

During this period, the need for oxygen greatly increases - now it is needed not only by you, but also by the unborn baby, so ventilate the rooms, walk more in the fresh air. It is best if the walks are short, but frequent.

A favorable atmosphere in your home is very important, without family conflicts and stress. With the onset of pregnancy, the psychological perception of some situations that previously left you indifferent is exacerbated. Your relatives, and especially your husband, should understand this very well and surround you with attention, care, and tenderness.

Do not worry if you notice a decrease in interest in sexual contact: during pregnancy, this is completely natural. The rhythm of sexual intercourse will depend on the state of health of the woman. Sexual life is not recommended in the first 2-3 months of pregnancy in order to avoid spontaneous abortion and in the last 2 months because of the risk of premature termination and infection of the woman's genital tract.

You should beware of influenza and other infectious diseases.

Smoking and consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed.

No medicines should be taken without a doctor's prescription. But there is no need to think that any medications are prohibited during pregnancy - there are simply medications that can have a harmful effect on the unborn child and cause developmental defects in his body. What medicines and in what doses to take, only the doctor decides.

PERSONAL HYGIENE

Clothing should not constrain the chest and abdomen. The size of the bra should be changed as the volume of the mammary glands increases. In the second half of pregnancy, it is recommended to wear a special bandage. Shoes should be comfortable, with wide, low heels.

Frequent change of underwear and bed linen is required.

Body care. A high level of the hormone progesterone causes an increase in the secretion of the sebaceous glands of the skin. Take a warm shower 2 times a day, it is advisable to shave the hair under the arms. If you have dry skin, you can use a moisturizing lotion. You will have to give up hot baths and sauna visits - these pleasures are dangerous, they can lead to premature termination of pregnancy. The external genitalia require special care - they need to be washed several times a day. At the same time, try not to use a strong ascending shower jet.

Oral and dental care. It is recommended to brush your teeth in the morning and in the evening, and rinse your mouth after every meal. Obligatory examination by a dentist and sanitation of the oral cavity.

Preparing the mammary glands and nipples for feeding a child consists in washing them daily with water at room temperature, rubbing them with a terry towel and taking air baths before going to bed (leave the mammary glands open for 10-15 minutes).

Pull out flat or inverted nipples with clean fingers 2-3 times a day for 3-4 minutes, after lubricating them with a cosmetic cream.

The nutrition of a pregnant woman is of great importance for the normal development of the fetus and maintaining the health of the mother. Malnutrition leads to miscarriages, a decrease in fetal weight, and increases the frequency of loss of children after childbirth.

Excessive food intake causes an increase in the body weight of the newborn, which in turn complicates childbirth: the birth canal and the child are injured.

In the first half of pregnancy, a woman's diet should not differ significantly from that before pregnancy. You can allow spicy and salty dishes, with nausea in the morning it is better to take food lying down. Strong tea, coffee, alcohol should be excluded. Limit foods that cause allergies: citrus fruits, chocolate, etc.

During pregnancy, it is advisable to increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day to prevent urinary tract infections. Acidified drinks are useful: cranberry or lingonberry juice, lemon tea, kidney tea. AT late dates during pregnancy, the amount of drinking should be reduced to 1200-1500 ml, limit the intake of table salt to 5-8 g per day. It is desirable that boiled or stewed foods predominate in your diet.

With an increase in the mass of the fetus, the uterus increases the need for proteins up to 120 g per day. Proteins are rich in meat, fish, eggs, cottage cheese, milk, from plant products - legumes, cabbage, buckwheat, oatmeal. At the end of pregnancy, you should limit the consumption of meat, especially fried, mushroom dishes. The amount of carbohydrates should not exceed 500g per day, and if the pregnant woman is overweight, 300g. It is advisable to get carbohydrates in foods rich in fiber (wholemeal bread, vegetables, fruits, cereals). From 14 weeks of pregnancy, it is necessary to reduce the consumption of confectionery, sweets; the amount of sugar should not exceed 40-50g. Compensation for energy costs is provided by fats, their consumption increases, but should not exceed 85 g per day. From vegetable fats, sunflower and olive oil, from animals - creamy and melted. Lamb, beef lard, margarine should not be included in the diet.

Particular attention should be paid to the sufficient content of vitamins in food. It is good for you to eat at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the day. Portions can be quite small, such as an apple, or a small cup of grapes, or two large spoons of fruit salad, or one glass (150 ml) of fresh juice, or some greens of any kind, or a cup of vegetable salad. Fiber, which is rich in plant foods, will help your intestines work.

The body of a pregnant woman needs a large amount of calcium, phosphorus, iron, therefore, dairy products and iron-rich foods should be included in the daily diet.

Even the most ideal diet will not be able to give your body all the vitamins and minerals it needs. In consultation with the doctor, it is necessary to take vitamin and mineral complexes.

GYMNASTIC EXERCISES.

Hygienic gymnastics is indicated in the normal course of pregnancy. It strengthens the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall and pelvic floor, which facilitates the process of childbirth. It is important that the exercises do not make you overtired or short of breath. Avoid sports that could cause falls or bruises, such as cross-country skiing or horseback riding. At the same time, calm cycling will not harm you, and you can swim without any harm to health even up to the 9th month of pregnancy. Before choosing gymnastic exercises, consult your doctor. Complexes of exercises vary depending on the duration of pregnancy.

WHAT EXERCISES DO YOU NEED IN THE FIRST HALF OF PREGNANCY?

In the first 16 weeks of pregnancy, the main goal of gymnastics is to teach you proper breathing and the ability to strain and relax your muscles; these skills will be useful to you during childbirth.

The first type of breathing is slow and deep. Place your hands on your sides with your fingers apart. chest and inhale

so deep that the hands feel how the entire chest is filled with air. Then exhale slowly.

The second type of breathing is shallow. It mainly involves the upper part of the chest. Place your palms on your shoulders and try to take a few quick breaths in and out so that your hands feel the movement of your shoulders up and down. You will need the ability to control breathing during childbirth.

Another technique that is useful for you to master is relaxation. If you learn to control your muscles in advance, then you will have a good rest between contractions during childbirth, and you will protect yourself from breaks. To fully relax, imagine a situation that makes you feel completely comfortable, such as relaxing on the beach under the warm sun, swimming in warm water. Sit comfortably in a chair with a headrest, place your relaxed hands on the armrests, and slightly spread your feet.

First you need to relax the muscles of the face - perform the so-called "relaxation mask". Keep your forehead relaxed, lower your eyelids, stop looking inward and downward, gently place your tongue over your upper teeth, and let your lower jaw drop slightly. After several attempts, this technique will easily succeed. After creating a "mask of relaxation", relax the muscles of the back of the head and neck, imagine that your arms and legs hang freely, and relax them too.

Mini-training for tension and relaxation according to the Nikolaev-Lamaz method is carried out lying or sitting:

1. Consistently tighten the feet, calves, thighs, buttocks, perineum, hands, forearms, shoulders, face. At the same time, focus on the part of the body that you are straining. Then, in the same sequence, relax the muscles, concentrating on them.

4. Tighten your right leg and left arm and relax your left leg and right hand, then do the opposite. Relax on an internal command.

WHAT EXERCISES DO YOU NEED IN THE SECOND HALF OF PREGNANCY?

In the second half of pregnancy, do exercises that will increase the flexibility of the spine and pelvic joints.

1. Get on your knees and lean on your hands. Exhaling and arching your back, move your pelvis forward. After a few seconds, return to the starting position, inhale. This exercise not only develops the mobility of the pelvis, but also helps to relieve back pain.

2. Squatting, spread your feet apart. The back should be straight, hands clasped in front at knee level. Without lifting your heels from the floor, push your hips apart with your elbows. This exercise will improve the mobility of the hip joints, strengthen the muscles of the back and hips.

3. Sitting on a chair, tense and then relax the muscles of the perineum,

repeat the exercise 10-15 times. You can do it standing, lying or sitting. This exercise strengthens the muscles of the pelvic floor, which is very useful for you during childbirth.

More details about the exercises that are useful to you are described on the website of the “Code of Health and Longevity” - www.kzid.ru.

HOW YOU CAN MAKE DELIVERY EASIER

Childbirth is physical labor, so you need to learn how to save energy. There is no need to be afraid of labor pain: fear interferes with the proper course of childbirth, and you can learn how to manage painful contractions in advance. You will be helped by the implementation of some rules of conduct during childbirth.

BODY POSITION

At the beginning of labor, while the contractions are still short and infrequent, you can choose the position of the body that is most comfortable for you. You should not lie on your back for a long time, since in this position the fetus squeezes the mother's large blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the placenta. In the active stage of labor, when contractions are frequent, try to change the position of the body and lie more on your side. If the doctor allows, walk around, stand, leaning on a chair, kneel, leaning on your hands. When a woman in labor alternates between walking and lying down (alternates between an active body position and a resting position), childbirth is less painful.

During childbirth, the baby's head presses down on the bladder, and urine quickly accumulates in it. A full bubble, in turn, prevents the baby's head from descending into the pelvic cavity. So try to urinate every 2-3 hours.

RULES OF BREATHING

Your ability to breathe properly is of great importance for the well-being of the child during childbirth. During a contraction, when the uterus contracts, he receives less oxygen and suffers from this. While the contractions are long and not very frequent, you need to breathe deeply so that the blood is well oxygenated. When the contractions become more intense, take a few deep breaths at the beginning of the contraction, and as it increases, switch to shallow breathing. Between

Strive to relax as much as possible.

RELAXATION TECHNIQUES

During childbirth, relaxation techniques that you already know will come in handy. Use self-hypnosis formulas. Tell yourself: “I am calm. Contractions are a sign of normal labor activity. Gradually they will intensify. My breathing is even and deep. The muscles are relaxed. The fight is over now and I'll rest." Contrary to common misconception, childbirth is not necessarily accompanied by pain; in about 20% of women, they are painless. There are several tricks that will allow you to significantly reduce the feeling of contraction.

ANESTHESIA RECEPTIONS DURING STRIGHT.

1. Deep and rhythmic breathing. Inhale through the nose for a long time, exhale through the mouth briefly, 16-18 times per minute.

2. Stroking the lower half of the abdomen in the form of light tangential movements with the fingertips. Hand movements are made from middle line belly above the bosom outwards and upwards, combining with correct breathing. When moving along the abdominal wall outward - inhale, at the moment the hands return to their original position (through the air) - exhale. As the strength of contractions increases, the gesture is wider, the breath is deeper.

3. Pressing the "anesthetic points" while lying on your back:

a) protrusions of the comb bone of the pelvis (anterosuperior iliac spines) on the inner surface with the thumbs of both hands, with the palm and the remaining four fingers located along the thigh.

Pressure and vibrating movements are carried out during the contraction simultaneously with deep breathing.

b) on the outer corners of the lumbar rhombus, for which the woman in labor should place her hands clenched into fists under the lower back, facing the back surfaces up.

4. Lumbar massage is performed in the form of rubbing or stroking it in the position of the woman in labor on her side or in the form of jerky movements from top to bottom in a sitting position.

REGULATION OF PULLING ACTIVITIES.

In the second stage of labor, with the onset of attempts, you need to take a deep breath, hold your breath and push until there is enough air in the lungs. To strengthen the attempts, you should press your chin to your chest, rest your feet against the supports, pull the handles (edges) of the bed towards you with your hands. Repeat this technique as long as the push continues. If during the push you manage to push 3 times, the push will be the most effective. But when the baby's head begins to appear, attempts at the command of the midwife must be stopped. Now efforts are superfluous - they will lead to too rapid exit of the head from the vagina, which threatens with tissue ruptures. To ease the pushing, breathe quickly through your mouth, just like a dog breathes on a hot day.