Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with wonder, but it can also be overwhelming for first-time mothers.

As an expectant mother, you should ensure that you take care of yourself and your unborn child and understand what is happening to your body throughout the pregnancy. Here are ten essential pregnancy facts every expectant mother should know.

1. Pregnancy Symptoms

Pregnancy symptoms vary from woman to woman. Some women may experience no symptoms but a positive pregnancy test, while others may experience all symptoms right from the start.

Common initial pregnancy symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and tender breasts. As your pregnancy progresses, you may experience heartburn, constipation, backache, and excessive urination.

2. Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is crucial for your health and the health of your baby during pregnancy. Regular prenatal care from a trained healthcare provider can help detect issues early on and prevent complications.

Your healthcare provider will perform regular checkups, conduct tests, and provide advice and support throughout your pregnancy.

3. Fetal Development

During the first trimester, the fertilized egg divides and forms into an embryo. The embryo then transforms into a fetus by the end of the twelfth week.

The second trimester brings about rapid growth and development of the fetus, including the formation of the baby’s sex organs. During the third trimester, the fetus gains weight and size in preparation for birth.

4. Nutrition and Exercise

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is vital for the health of the mother and the baby. Growing fetuses need sufficient nutrients and vitamins to develop properly. Exercise during pregnancy is essential too.

Pregnant women should engage in moderate-intensity exercise for 30 minutes or more, up to five days a week, unless restricted by their doctor.

5. Labor and Delivery

Labor can last for hours or even days for some women. The three stages of labor : the first two stages involve the cervix to dilate, and the third stage occurs when the baby is delivered, followed by the delivery of the placenta.

Women may opt for natural delivery without any medication or opt for medication, such as epidural anesthesia, to reduce the pain and discomfort of labor.

6. Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a natural and recommended method of feeding newborns. Breast milk is an essential source of nutrients and antibodies that help protect babies from infections and illnesses.

Breastfeeding benefits mothers too by reducing the risk of ovarian and breast cancer, diabetes, and postpartum depression.

7. Postpartum Period

After giving birth, a woman’s body needs time to heal and recover. The first six weeks of the postpartum period are crucial for healing, and a trained healthcare provider should monitor the mother and baby during this period.

Women may experience postpartum depression, which is a severe form of depression that can affect mothers after the birth of their child.

8. Genetic Testing

Genetic testing is an essential option for prospective parents to consider. Genetic testing can identify the genetic cause of hereditary medical conditions or estimate the risks of developing certain conditions.

Genetic testing can provide families with valuable information that can help them make informed decisions about pregnancy, family planning, and/or health care.

9. Complications

Some women experience complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, and preterm labor. Women should know the signs and symptoms of these conditions and report them to their healthcare provider immediately.

Early detection and prompt treatment can reduce the risks to the mother and baby.

10. Emotional Well-being

Pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster, and it’s essential to take care of your mental health. Connect with trusted friends and family, attend counseling, and seek support services if you need them.

Taking time for yourself and practicing self-care, such as meditation and exercise, can help reduce stress and improve your emotional well-being.