Pregnancy is a special process in the life of a woman, which can be compared to a life cycle; in the course of pregnancy, changes in the physical, mental and psychological state of women occur. Knowledge of what to expect during this time is likely to make this time full of joys and not a nightmare. Here is a complete pregnancy calendar which is a detailed overview of what is to expect during pregnancy, when the baby is conceived, the timeline of stages of pregnancy, how to prevent and manage conception delays and other complications, and gratitude for minor accomplishments.
Timeline for Conception
Conception and pregnancy are grouped into three main periods, and these are as follows;
Preconception
It is strapping for all women to prepare their bodies and mind before getting pregnant. This includes exercise, visiting doctors and including foods like folic acid in the diets to prepare the body for conception and for carrying a pregnancy.
First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)
Conception and Implantation begin when a sperm penetrates an egg begins to grow and develop, and implants itself into the uterus. This is around the time when other pregnancy symptoms are usually seen including; missing periods, tiredness and nausea among others.
Early Development is the period where most of the baby’s essential organic systems are formed. Parental antenatal check-ups are necessary to observe the foetal development and the mother’s condition.
Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26)
During growth and development, women even gain weight and other body fat and the baby begins to put fingerprints and facial features, and to develop the ability to hear.
Alongside weight gain, the increased energy and well-being is a second phase. This period is characterized by many women having increased energy and less morning sickness as compared to the previous weeks. This is a good period for the woman to do everything to prepare for the baby’s coming and not have any severe discomfort during pregnancy days.
Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40)
The body organs form and the baby further develops in order to prepare for birth. Pain is also more likely to be a problem as the baby develops and becomes heavier and larger on your body.
You should go to prenatal sessions, complete the birth plan, and arrange your house for welcoming the baby. General antenatal appointments are now more frequent in order to check the baby’s position and how well-prepared your body is for labour.
Dealing with Setbacks
There are bound to be some delays and setbacks during pregnancy which can be quite emotionally stressful. Here are some ways to cope:
Managing Expectations
Inform the audience that each pregnancy is different and some can be either delayed or problematic. No need to set very high expectations for oneself, and not compare with other people.
Seeking Support
Do not hesitate to rely on your partner, your family and/or friends for help and support. Do not feel that you have to cope alone and seek counseling or a support group if you find it difficult to handle.
Practicing Self-Care
Perform certain exercises that will help in controlling stress like prenatal yoga, meditation and other light exercises. It is important for women to note that mental health during pregnancy is equally as important as physical health.
Staying Informed
This is why it is important for women to learn about some pregnancy complications and their remedies. If provided with knowledge, it actually prepares an able candidate to face failures and enjoy full control over choices made concerning your own health or that of your baby.
Celebrating Small Milestones
It is recommended you learn how to embrace all the little achievements that you make through your pregnancy as this will create a bond between you as well as your growing baby.
First Heartbeat
Babies’ first heartbeats will be such a special moment to hear as a parent. Enjoy this moment with the one you love and spread happiness with your friends and relatives.
First Ultrasound
Several mommies agree that having an ultrasound of your baby makes the pregnancy become more real. Take a number of pictures of the ultrasound for a reminder and pass the good news to your friends and family.
Feeling the First Kick
First-time mothers always look forward to’ feeling’ their babies and that first movement is an exciting moment. Record them in a diary or disclose them to your companion to intensify affection between you two.
Telling everyone the baby’s gender and the shower to prepare for the baby to arrive.
Pregnancy can be quite an exciting time in the life of a woman, especially if you would like to organize a baby shower or gender reveal party to commemorate the pregnancy while at the same time acquiring baby items that may come in handy for your newborn. It is effective in that aspect since your loved ones can be included in the joyful process.
