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Pregnancy Definition
The state of carrying a developing embryo
or fetus within the female body. This condition can be indicated by
positive results on an over-the-counter urine test, and confirmed
through a blood test, ultrasound, detection of fetal heartbeat, or an
X-ray. Pregnancy lasts for about nine months, measured from the date of
the woman's last menstrual period (LMP). It is conventionally divided
into three trimesters, each roughly three months long.
The most important tasks of basic fetal cell differentiation occur
during the first trimester, so any harm done to the fetus during this
period is most likely to result in
miscarriage or serious disability.
There is little to no chance that a first-trimester fetus can survive
outside the womb, even with the best hospital care. Its systems are
simply too undeveloped. This stage truly ends with the phenomenon of
quickening: the mother's first perception of fetal movement. It is in
the first trimester that some women experience "morning sickness," a
form of nausea on awaking that usually passes within an hour. The
breasts also begin to prepare for nursing, and painful soreness from
hardening milk glands may result. As the pregnancy progresses, the
mother may experience many physical and emotional changes, ranging from
increased moodiness to darkening of the skin in various areas. During
the second trimester, the fetus undergoes a remarkable series of
developments. Its physical parts become fully distinct and at least
somewhat operational. With the best medical care, a second-trimester
fetus born prematurely has at least some chance of survival, although
developmental delays and other handicaps may emerge later. As the fetus
grows in size, the mother's pregnant state will begin to be obvious. In
the third trimester, the fetus enters the final stage of preparation for
birth. It increases rapidly in weight, as does the mother. As the end of
the pregnancy nears, there may be discomfort as the fetus moves into
position in the woman's lower abdomen. Edema (swelling of the ankles),
back pain, and balance problems are sometimes experienced during this
time period. Most women are able to go about their usual activities
until the very last days or weeks of pregnancy, including non-impact
exercise and work. During the final days, some feel too much discomfort
to continue at a full pace, although others report greatly increased
energy just before the birth. Pregnancy ends when the birth process
begins.
Pregnancy Pictures
Month by Month
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Pregnancy Picture Month 1 |
Pregnancy Picture Month 2 |
Pregnancy Picture Month 3 |
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Pregnancy Picture Month 4 |
Pregnancy Picture Month 5 |
Pregnancy Picture Month 6 |
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Pregnancy Pictures Month 7 |
Pregnancy Pictures Month 8 |
Pregnancy Pictures Month 9 |
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