What is gestational thrombocytopenia (GT)?

Thrombocytopenia occurs when the number of platelets in the blood falls below a certain level. In gestational thrombocytopenia (GT), your pregnancy causes this decrease. GT is benign, usually asymptomatic and almost always resolves itself after delivery.

To understand GT, it helps to learn about platelets and how they work in the body.

Platelets are small, plate-shaped blood cells produced in your bone marrow. When a blood vessel is damaged—for example, if you cut your arm—platelets stick together to form a clot and stop the bleeding. Needless to say, they are quite important. When you don’t have enough platelets, you will bruise and bleed more easily.

People usually have between 150,000 and 400,000 platelets per microliter of blood. If that number falls below 150,000, it means you have thrombocytopenia, or a low platelet count. If you are pregnant and this happens, you probably have GT.

Almost all cases of GT are mild, with platelet counts ranging between 100,000 and 150,000. On the rare occasion that they drop lower, another medical problem is likely.

Between 7 and 12% of pregnancies are affected by GT, with women carrying twins and triplets at higher risk. If you have the condition once, you are 14 times more likely to develop it in a later pregnancy.

What causes low platelets during pregnancy?

Research showsOpens a new window that the platelet count is typically lower in pregnant women and continues to decline during pregnancy. But when that number drops abnormally low, there are several possible causes.

Gestational thrombocytopenia is by far the most common cause of low platelets in pregnancy. Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes GT, but hemodilution may play a role.

Here’s how: When you’re pregnant, your blood volume increases to support your baby’s growth. (Essentially, you get more plasma.) But certain cells in your blood, including platelets, may not grow at the same rate, leading to a deficit.

Another potential factor in GT: faster breakdown of platelets. Normally, the lifespan of platelets is about a week. But the lifespan of platelets is likely to be shorter during pregnancy because of the changes your body is going through.

So when your platelets break down faster and your body doesn’t replace them as quickly, it leads to a lower than normal platelet count.

immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is the second biggest cause of low platelets in pregnant women. However, it is not caused by pregnancy. Instead, it is a malfunction of the immune system. ITP causes increased bleeding and bruising, as well as the formation of purple spots on your skin.

Other medical conditions cause low platelets in pregnancy less than 1% of the time. Some problems are specific to pregnancy, while others are different conditions. These include:

What symptoms can I experience if I have low platelets in pregnancy?

Most people with GT have no symptoms. If you experience symptoms like nosebleeds or excessive bruising, you probably have another condition.

Because it is usually asymptomatic, many women are diagnosed with GT only after a routine test called a complete blood count (CBC), often in the second or third trimester. Some women, however, won’t find out until they give birth.

There is no specific test to diagnose GT, nor a test to distinguish between GT and other causes of low platelets. So, to diagnose GT, your doctor must rule out other medical conditions.

Generally speaking, you will be diagnosed with GT if your platelet count is between 100,000 and 150,000, if you are not bleeding or bruising profusely and your CBC shows no associated abnormalities.

If your platelet count drops below 100,000, there is usually a reason other than GT. In this case, your provider will investigate ITP and other potential causes.

What are the treatment options for gestational thrombocytopenia?

You won’t need GT treatment while you’re pregnant, and you probably won’t need to do anything different when it comes to your prenatal care.

The condition usually clears up on its own within a month or two after delivery.

An exception is the platelet count. If you were diagnosed with GT before delivery, your doctor will likely check your platelets several times until your due date. That number will be checked again during delivery, and again one or two months after delivery to make sure you are clear.

If your platelet count does not return to normal after giving birth, you may not have GT after all. Instead, another condition may be the culprit – most commonly, ITP.

Rarely, while you are pregnant, your doctor may diagnose another cause of low platelets, such as lupus or severe liver disease. If this is the case, you will be assessed and treated for the condition.

Will low platelets affect my baby?

Gestational thrombocytopenia will not harm your baby. And if you’ve been diagnosed with GT, the risk of your baby developing low platelets is low. Research suggestsOpens a new window less than 1% of infants will have a low platelet count at birth.

Breastfeeding is also safe. You can go ahead and breastfeed without any problems.

If you have a very low platelet count at the time of delivery, there is a chance you won’t be able to get an epidural. But your provider will walk you through your options and it won’t affect your baby.

When to call your doctor

Since you usually won’t have symptoms if you have GT, you probably won’t need to talk to your doctor about it outside of regular prenatal visits. (Then again, you might not even know you have it.)

The good news is that even though your platelets are low, they are probably functioning normally – which is why most pregnant women have no symptoms and are not at increased risk of bleeding or bleeding during labour.

However, new, sudden, unusual and serious symptoms of any kind are always a good reason to call your gynecologist or midwife. And seek medical help immediately if you experience emergency symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, difficulty breathing, or intense pain or cramps.

It may seem like your pregnancy will last forever, but you’ll be meeting your new baby before you know it. In the meantime, a little advance planning and preparation now will make it easier for you to relax and enjoy your pregnancy as your due date approaches.

Below are some helpful ways to prepare for your baby. But this doesn’t cover it everything: You can find many more ideas and tips in our first trimester, second trimester and third trimester checklists.

1. Go to a childbirth class

The prospect of giving birth can be terrifying and you may be tempted to put it all out of your mind until it happens. But learning about labor ahead of time will help you be a more active participant in your baby’s birth.

An online or in-person childbirth class will give you the opportunity to learn about the different stages of labor, pain management options, breathing techniques, and medical equipment that can be used during labor. It’s a good idea to start looking for classes mid-pregnancy to make sure you can get into one you like—and have time to take it!

You can also learn about different ways of giving birth by watching videos of real births. Some of the more common births include:

After you’ve done your research, you may want to outline your wishes in a birth plan. But keep in mind that just because you’re well-informed and armed with a birth plan doesn’t mean your labor will go exactly the way you want it to.

2. Find a doctor for your baby

You may want to start looking for a pediatrician for your baby mid-pregnancy. It may seem early, but you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to do so choose the right doctor for your family. You will also need to consider whether the doctor is accepting new patients and whether they take your health insurance.

Talk to your health insurance provider to find out how to add your baby to your policy and see which local pediatricians are covered. Read reviews online and ask around to see where your mom friends are taking their kids. Make sure you understand how your insurance plan works, especially regarding maternity benefits.

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3. Make big decisions with your partner

A major element of preparing for a baby is preparing for how life will change after the arrival of your newborn. Just as it’s important to talk about how your partner can support you during labor, be sure to talk about what you’ll need from each other afterwards. Different expectations about parenting and household responsibilities can create major conflicts for new parents, so try to work this out as best you can in advance.

Don’t assume your partner knows how much your new baby will change your lives. Talk about how you will share baby and household responsibilities. And educate your partner about the less obvious things, like how to support you in breastfeeding.

You can also make life easier by making some other big decisions now, like choosing a name for your baby and choosing whether to get circumcised.

Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, having a community of new parents to lean on for support is a game changer. While real-life relationships are essential, online friends are also invaluable: Try it BabyCenter Communitywhich makes it easy to connect with new and expectant moms.

It can be very helpful, as well as a validation, to share information with fellow moms. You may not have the same experience as others, but knowing certain things ahead of time can reduce the shock factor—and can help you adjust your own expectations of motherhood.

One caveat: If a real conversation gets too intense (say a friend starts talking about a rare but terrifying complication of her relative’s birth), gently stop it and perhaps redirect the conversation to something lighter.

5. Prepare older siblings – and pets – for the new baby

Your new baby can rock your older children’s world even more than yours! Fortunately, your family has a few months to get used to the idea of ​​a new member, and there are things you can do to prepare your sibling for the new baby.

You can use a baby doll to help your child understand what is coming. Older children or preschoolers enjoy pretend play, and when they later see you diaper or feed your baby, it feels familiar. Some hospitals have sibling classes where older children can learn about babies – why they cry, how to protect them and why they sleep so much.

As your due date approaches, make sure you designate someone to care for your children during and after the birth.

You’ll also want to prepare your pets for the new baby. Local trainers may offer classes, or you can refer to books, articles, or videos for tips on getting your pet used to a new baby. Be sure to consider whether you will need to make arrangements with a pet sitter or dog walker when you are in the hospital giving birth.

6. Get help after your baby arrives

Extra help is necessary for the first few weeks with a newborn. Don’t do it all alone – although it can be difficult, asking for help is one of the most important and valuable things you can do.

If you’re lucky enough to have a relative who can help, consider sitting down before the baby arrives to discuss the specifics. Grandma may want to swoop in and take care of that sweet bundle of joy, but it’s more important for parents to understand baby care together. The family can help with laundry, shopping, cooking and other chores.

Of course, not all potential helpers will be open to this. But many really want to help you in the best possible way and will appreciate hearing exactly what you need.

You may be able to hire help, such as a postpartum doula or night nanny.

7. Plan when labor starts

Long before those first contractions hit, you’ll want to prepare for labor by having a solid plan in place about who to call, where to go, and when to leave.

Your healthcare provider should give you a clear set of guidelines about what to do when you go into labor, including when to call your doctor’s office and when to go to the hospital or birth center (or when to call your midwife if you’re planning a home birth). Decide who will follow you and have a few backups just in case.

Plan your route ahead of time, including where to park and which entrance to use when it’s time to check in. You can take care of these logistics by visiting your hospital or birthing center in person or virtually. During the tour of the hospital, you will learn about the basic rules and see the delivery rooms and the nursery (if any).

If you can, apply in advance to get the paperwork done. That way, you’ll be able to bypass the red tape and get in the breeze when they start working.

8. Decide who will attend the birth

Deciding who will attend the birth of your baby is a very personal decision. Some moms like a full room, including their partner, perhaps a doula, and friends and family to attend the birth and provide support. Others prefer as few people as possible.

Check the rules at your hospital or birth center, then think about what you want to avoid misunderstandings or unwanted onlookers.

It can also help to designate a “spokesperson” ahead of time – that is, someone who can email and phone (or spread the news on social media) to let everyone know when your baby arrives.

Finally, remember that childbirth can be exhausting, and visitors popping up unannounced during your recovery may not be the most reassuring experience. Talk to your family members beforehand about the expectations of the visit, and if it starts to overwhelm you, don’t be afraid to ask the nurse to act as a bouncer.

9. Pack your hospital bag

The last thing you’ll want to worry about when labor starts is whether you’ve packed your toothbrush and deodorant. Ease your mind by having your bag packed and assembled a few weeks before your appointment. Find the essentials to include in this hospital bag packing list. (Your partner should also prepare their bag for the stay.)

In addition to these essentials, think about personal items that can make your stay in the hospital more comfortable or things that will keep you occupied if labor is slow. It could be your favorite pair of slippers, your favorite book or your cozy bathrobe.

Some moms-to-be bring their own pillows or their own shampoo and conditioner so they have something familiar during their first postpartum shower.

10. Prepare the equipment for the baby

You can wait to buy many things, but here are the essentials you’ll need right away:

Throw in nursing bras and pads if you plan to breastfeed, baby bottles if you’re bottle feeding, and baby formula if you’re formula feeding.

Don’t feel pressured to have every baby product ever should be ready to go. You can wait and see what you and your baby prefer. Talk to mom friends or moms in the BabyCenter community about what they find helpful, and don’t worry about the rest.

One more thing to do before baby arrives: Stock up on household must-haves to avoid trips to the store or surprise online orders at 3 a.m. Basic groceries, frozen food, toiletries, medicine, toilet paper, shampoo—even extra pairs of underwear—often come in handy when you first bring your baby home.

Induction cooktops look almost identical to standard smooth-top cooktops, but there’s a lot more to them than meets the eye. Functionally, there is a big difference between induction cooktops and regular electric cooktops, which makes induction cooktops safer, more environmentally friendly, and even faster than other cooktops.

There are freestanding, sliding and built-in models so you can choose the best induction range that fits your space perfectly.

Below, we’ve explained what an induction cooktop is, how it works, and outlined the pros and cons, so you can decide if an induction range is right for you.

What is an induction hob?

An induction hob is a cooking surface with an electromagnetic field located beneath the surface. When switched on, the electromagnetic field reacts with the magnetic cookware and generates heat by transferring energy.

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How does induction cooking work?

While an induction stove uses electricity to create heat, it does not do so in the same way as an electric stove. Electric cooktops use electricity to heat the element, either under a glass top or directly on the coil-shaped cooktop.

This hob then becomes extremely hot. When a pot or pan is placed on the hob, heat is then transferred to it, with much of that heat being lost in the process.

An induction cooktop does not use electricity to heat the cooktop itself. Instead, electricity is used to power the electromagnetic field beneath the glass. When a magnetic pan is placed on the hob, the magnetic reaction causes the pan to heat up. This direct connection efficiently heats the pan without heating the hob itself.

To cook on an induction hob, you must use cookware that is compatible with induction. This is because the magnetic field that an induction cooktop uses to generate heat must have magnetic cookware to react to.

Cookware made from materials such as aluminium, copper and glass will not work with induction, as these materials are not magnetic – however, traditional cookware such as stainless steel, cast iron, enameled iron and nickel will.

Advantages of induction hobs

Like any other style of cooktop and range, there are pros and cons associated with induction cooktops.

Here are some of the prominent benefits of induction cooktops:

• security: Since the induction cooktop’s magnetic field heats the pan itself, not the cooktop, you don’t have to worry about the cooktop heating up if you forget to turn it off after removing the pan.
• Energy efficient: Induction cooktops are more energy efficient than electric and gas stoves, saving you money while being environmentally conscious.
• Easy to clean: Induction cooktops have a solid glass cooktop, similar to a glass or ceramic electric cooktop. This solid surface is much easier to clean than a gas stove or a traditional electric stove with coil elements. Plus, since the hob doesn’t heat up, there are far fewer places for food to catch fire.
• Cooking speed: The heat generation from the magnetic reaction of an induction cooktop is unmatched. Induction-compatible cookware heats up quickly and evenly, making cooking quick and easy.

Disadvantages of induction hobs

Induction hobs can also have some disadvantages, here are some disadvantages you need to know:

• Missing throttle feel: The flame of gas stoves, in itself, is a favorite among cooks. It is easy to read and react to, which is the main part of cooking. Induction cooktops lack flame or even glow, which is why some users want a visual display of heat.
• Requires special utensils: If you switch to induction but don’t yet have the right cookware, be prepared to shell out extra money for induction-compatible cookware.
• expensive: Induction cooktops and stoves are usually more expensive than their direct competition with electric and gas stoves. Furthermore, switching from gas to induction will likely require you to hire an electrician to run the correct electrical line.

Installation and costs of induction hobs

Most induction ranges use the same electrical connection as a standard electrical range. So, if you’re going from electric to induction, simply turn off the old stove and turn on the new stove.

However, switching from gas to induction will require you to install a dedicated electrical line if it is not already present, which is likely the case since it is not required for a gas furnace. If this is the case, you will need to hire an electrician, which is estimated to cost $50 to $100 per hour plus material costs.

What are home gender test kits?

If you’re eager to find out if you’re having a boy or a girl, you don’t have to wait for your healthcare provider to do a test—there are at-home gender test kits that claim to be able to identify your baby’s gender using a blood test as early as six weeks pregnant.

Here’s how these blood-based DNA tests usually work:

1. You receive a kit that includes instructions, blood sampling equipment, and packaging for sending the sample to the laboratory.
2. To do the test, you prick your finger with a lancet (or use a lancing device) and collect blood in a tube.
3. You send a tube of blood to the laboratory for analysis.
4. Within a week (or sooner with expedited service), the lab emails you the test results, identifying the baby as a boy or girl.

There are also urine-based tests, but there is very little DNA in urine, so these tests are probably not as accurate – and they don’t claim to be. The kits contain instructions and accessories for collecting a urine sample and performing the test. Results are provided within minutes.

Are the gender test kits the same as the test I would get at my provider’s office?

Yes and no. The gender test kits you get at home are the same types of tests as the ones in your provider’s office, but they can’t give you as much information. Your doctor’s test is called non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and is primarily used to screen for Down syndrome and some other chromosomal conditions. It can also tell the gender of your baby. NIPT uses certified laboratories to check for fetal DNA (cell-free DNA) circulating in your blood.

“NIPT is the earliest reliable, noninvasive way to determine your baby’s sex,” says Layan Alrahmani, MD, a specialist in gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine in Chicago. “Many people having NIPT tests are keen to find out the gender of the baby along with the results of other tests.”

NIPT is available to all pregnant women in their 10th week of pregnancy, and your insurance may cover at least part of the fee (check to be sure).

Most at-home gender tests that require a blood sample are also cell-free DNA tests, but they only test for the presence or absence of a male Y chromosome in your blood to determine the gender of your baby. (Unless you’re carrying a boy, you’d only have female chromosomes in the DNA found in your blood.) They don’t check for chromosomal conditions.

Some pregnant women use at-home gender tests if they don’t get NIPT and don’t want to wait for a mid-pregnancy ultrasound to find out the gender of their baby.

Learn more about reliable ways to find out your baby’s gender.

Are home gender test kits accurate?

The science behind at-home blood tests is good, but these tests aren’t foolproof, says Shannon Smith, MD, an ob/gyn in Boston and a BabyCenter medical advisor. There is more room for error with home blood tests than those done in the doctor’s office. Here are some factors that can affect the accuracy of the test:

• DNA contamination. If a man touches your test kit, your test could falsely identify a female baby as male.

• A recent miscarriage.

• Twin or multiple pregnancy.

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• High BMI.

• Recent blood transfusion or stem cell transplant.
• Laboratory contamination.

“If you just can’t wait for routine testing at your provider’s office, home sex kits that use a blood sample are very accurate, adds Dr. Smith. “However, I would be cautious about urine-based testing. “

Under certain circumstances, companies that sell early gender DNA testing kits offer refunds for incorrect results.

What are the most popular gender test kits and how do they work?

Here are some of the most popular at-home gender test kits that you can buy online or in some stores. Read on to find out how they work and how accurate the tests claim to be.

SneakPeek Early Gender DNA Test KitOpens a new window

• SneakPeek uses a blood test as early as 6 weeks pregnant to look for male chromosomes in the fetal DNA in your blood.

• After you mail your test to the SneakPeek lab, you’ll receive your results via email or text within a few days.

• The company claims 99.9% accuracy.

Peekaboo Early Gender DNA TestOpens a new window

• Peekaboo also uses a blood test as early as 7 weeks pregnant.

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• After you mail your test to Peekaboo Labs, you will receive your results via email within seven business days. Peekaboo also has the option to send your results to someone else if you keep your baby’s gender a surprise.

• The company claims 100% accuracy.

GENDERmaker Gender Predictor Test KitOpens a new window

• GENDERmaker uses a urine-based test as early as the 6th week of pregnancy.

• You will get the results immediately – without sending the samples to the laboratory.

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• The company doesn’t claim accuracy, but notes a “positive feedback rate” of 98.4%.

GenderBliss Gender Predictor KitOpens a new window

• GenderBliss uses a urine-based test kit that is accurate as early as 8 to 10 weeks pregnant, depending on which test you get.

• Results are available within one minute.

• GenderBliss doesn’t say specifically how accurate it is, but says it’s “not for people looking for a 100% accurate result.”

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There’s no harm in trying them, but always talk to your provider

In general, there isn’t a lot of independently verified evidence that gender predictor test kits are as accurate as they claim to be, but if you want to try them, they’re generally cheap and there’s no harm in giving them a try. “So many pregnant women these days are being tested for NIPT as part of their routine care that gender prediction kits may be an unnecessary expense,” says Dr. Smith. “But that being said, there’s no harm in getting them, as long as you understand that you should probably wait for a confirmatory test with your doctor or midwife before filling the pram with pink or blue!”

Note: We use the word gender here because people often use this word when talking about the gender of their child. However, the two are not the same. A child is generally assigned a gender at birth based on biological characteristics, such as genitalia. But their gender label may not match their gender identity (based on feelings and behavior) as they grow up.

When you think of pregnancy, you probably think of eating for two, right? But for some moms, pregnancy does the exact opposite. Everything sounds completely disgusting – even former favorite foods – and I can completely lose my appetite.

As a member of the BabyCenter community he says“If I didn’t force myself to eat, I probably wouldn’t eat anything at all. I literally just can’t eat a lot. Some of the foods I think I want suddenly don’t taste good.”

“Loss of appetite during pregnancy is very common,” she assures Rikki Baldwin, DO,Opens a new window gynecologist at Memorial Hermann in Cypress, Texas. “It usually occurs during the first trimester, but I’ve had some patients where it lasted the whole pregnancy.” This lack of hunger is closely related to food aversion and nausea, says Dr. Baldwin, and is usually caused by the hormonal changes of pregnancy.

Here’s what loss of appetite means, whether it’s ever dangerous, and some expert advice on how to deal with it so you can have a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Is loss of appetite normal during pregnancy?

Loss of appetite is certainly normal during pregnancy. Although it is most closely associated with the first trimester, it can occur at any time.

Loss of appetite in the first trimester

Loss of appetite is especially common in the first trimester of pregnancy due to rising hormone levels, he says Stephanie K. Lao, MDOpens a new windowgynecologist at Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, California. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) spikes in early pregnancy – as detected by pregnancy tests – and can make you feel nauseous, causing loss of appetite and food aversions.

During this period, you may have a general lack of hunger, a desire to eat only bland foods, or cravings for foods you don’t normally eat. In other words, your palate can change drastically.

Some of this is related to changes in your sense of smell, which is closely related to your taste buds. Odors often intensify in early pregnancy – and smells that were once attractive can now smell overpowering or even repulsive.

Loss of appetite in the second trimester

For most people, changes in appetite, nausea, and hunger go away in the second trimester because some hormones decrease during that time, she says. Rebecca Keith, MDOpens a new windowgynecology board certified gynecologist at Pediatrix Medical Group in Kentucky.

Although less common, some people experience a decreased appetite after the first trimester, in the second trimester, and during pregnancy.

“When this is the case, it is usually associated with other conditions such as hyperemesis gravidarum or other gastrointestinal conditions,” says Dr. Lao. “Don’t hesitate to address your loss of appetite with your gynecologist if you’re concerned.”

Loss of appetite in the third trimester

Even if you enjoyed an increase in appetite in the second trimester, you may experience a decrease in the third and final trimester. Your body goes through some major physiological changes as it expands to accommodate the growing fetus.

First, your uterus becomes much larger, which means you have less overall space in your abdomen. “The stomach is compressed, and women are at a much higher risk of GERD or reflux,” says Dr. Keith. You may feel full much faster when you eat.

Plus, more hormonal changes can suppress your appetite, he says Mitchell Kramer, MDOpens a new windowgynecologist at Huntington Hospital in New York.

Is loss of appetite dangerous during pregnancy?

If your diet consists primarily of white toast and salty foods in the early months, you might be worried about what this means for your pregnancy.

The good news: Loss of appetite and food aversions are usually not dangerous, especially in the first trimester, says Dr. Keith. “We might give you a ‘pass’ in the first trimester,” she says. “We usually recommend a well-balanced diet, but if food aversions don’t allow that, then sometimes we have to look outside the box and allow the patient to eat whatever (within reason) they can tolerate.”

However, sometimes loss of appetite can become dangerous when it is associated with certain symptoms, says Dr. Lao, such as:

• Significant changes in weight

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• Inability to retain fluids

• Vomiting blood

• Severe cramps or pain in the pelvis

“If you have difficulty eating, don’t hesitate to tell your doctor,” stresses Dr. Lao. “When difficulty eating is associated with nausea, vomiting, or an inability to tolerate even liquids, contact your doctor or visit the emergency room.”

You may have hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of morning sickness that affects up to 3% of pregnant women. This condition is treatable, but may require hospital admission, IV hydration, and IV medications.

Is loss of appetite a sign of pregnancy?

If you’re anxiously waiting to find out if you’re pregnant, you might start looking for the most subtle early signs, and yes, loss of appetite is one of them, says Dr. Lao

“Some women experience an increase in appetite, while others have a significant decrease in appetite, with difficulty eating foods they normally enjoy,” she describes.

You can blame it on hormones. Your estrogen and progesterone levels, as well as hCG, are already rising, says Dr. Lao. However, if you don’t have changes in appetite or nausea, it doesn’t mean you’re not pregnant or that you don’t have a healthy pregnancy, she emphasizes.

How to deal with loss of appetite during pregnancy

In most cases, loss of appetite during pregnancy is temporary and manageable. But that doesn’t mean it’s not without its challenges. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help manage this symptom:

• Eat smaller meals or snacks every two to three hours (rather than larger meals spaced out)

• Try to sneak in some protein, as protein-rich foods are more likely to stave off nausea than carb-rich foods

• When you eat, try to eat slowly

• Avoid foods or smells that may cause food aversions or nausea

• Stick to bland foods and cut out foods rich in oil, spices or sugar

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• Ask your doctor about pregnancy-safe anti-nausea medications, such as Zofran

Keep in mind, too, that sometimes this kind of advice isn’t enough. Good nutrition is essential during pregnancy, says Dr. Kramer. “If a person has a loss of appetite that prevents adequate food intake, they should see their doctor as soon as possible to rule out any serious medical conditions and for advice,” he concludes.

How many weeks pregnant am I?

To determine your due date, health professionals count 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) rather than trying to guess exactly when the sperm met the egg. (You can use our pregnancy due date calculator to check how many weeks pregnant you are!)

Health professionals use your LMP to date your pregnancy because many women do not know what day they ovulated. Even if you know the day you had sex that resulted in pregnancy, it may not be the day you got pregnant: sperm can stay in the uterus for up to five days waiting for an egg to be released so it can be fertilized.

Using your LMP to find your due date means that when you get confirmation that you are pregnant, you will most likely be 4 or 5 weeks along.

How many weeks pregnant?

Gestation is 40 weeks – although you’re just as likely to give birth a few weeks before or after that.

How many weeks are there in a trimester?

Each trimester lasts about 13 weeks. The first trimester lasts until the 13th week of pregnancy, the second trimester lasts from the 14th to the 27th week, and the third trimester starts on the day you are 28 weeks pregnant and lasts until the 40th week (or until you deliver the baby).

How many trimesters are there in pregnancy?

There are three trimesters: the first trimester (early pregnancy), the second trimester (mid-pregnancy), and the third trimester (late pregnancy).

Week to month pregnancy chart

Check out our chart to see how the weeks, months and trimesters of pregnancy stack up against each other.

How many months pregnant am I?

You can use the chart above to figure out how pregnancy weeks correspond to months. Keep in mind that you are not technically pregnant for a month until, for example, 4 weeks have passed. But you are “in your first month” during the first 4 weeks and “in month nine” during the last 4 weeks.

If you’ve forgotten to take your prenatal vitamin for a day or two—or even a week or two—your anxiety may increase. But should you really be worried? Before you go to TikTok in a panicgynecologists say there are some things you should know.

First of all, yes, your prenatal vitamin (PNV) is a necessary daily intake for both your health and the health of your baby, says Lisa Jackson, MDgynecologist based in New York. “These vitamins provide critical nutrients needed for baby’s development – ​​especially key nutrients like folic acid, iron and calcium, which help with everything from brain development to healthy spine formation.

Of course, between feeling nauseous 24 hours a day or feeling like you’re going to gag on a big pill, it can be hard to stomach taking PNV every day. Then some days you just forget. Here’s what to do if you miss a vitamin, as well as some safe ways to help you remember your daily dose.

If you notice that you are vomiting regularly after taking your prenatal vitamin, you may want to consider switching to a different brand or trying a chewable or liquid form of your prenatal vitamin.

– Anushka Chelliah, MD, gynecologist and maternal-fetal medicine specialist

How prenatal vitamins work

Whether you’re trying to get pregnant or already have a positive pregnancy test, taking a prenatal is key, she says Sonya Brar, MDgynecologist from New York.

“Prenatal vitamins help fill a nutritional gap in your diet and promote healthy fetal development,” says Dr. Bro. As for the time, dr. Brar says to start taking a prenatal vitamin three months before conception if possible and continue through each trimester and even after delivery (you can also switch to a postnatal vitamin after birth). Don’t stress if you didn’t start until you found out you’re pregnant—just start taking them as soon as you know you’re pregnant, she adds.

Prenatal vitamins are formulated to deliver vital nutrients that both you and your baby need during pregnancy, including folic acid, iron, calcium and DHA, says Anushka Chelliah, MDspecialist in gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine in Houston. Here’s how these ingredients work to support you and your baby during the trimester, says Dr. Chelliah:

First trimester

During the first trimester, folic acid helps support the development of your baby’s central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, reducing the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Iron helps increase blood volume throughout the body, helps maintain a healthy placenta, and also helps ensure your baby gets enough oxygen. Iron also helps reduce the risk of anemia, blood disorders, and the fatigue that comes with it.

Second trimester

In the second trimester, iron continues to help increase blood volume as the baby grows, and calcium helps the baby’s bones and teeth develop. DHA can also help in the development of the central nervous system, brain and eyes. (Note: only some PNVs contain DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, so you may need to take it separately.)

Third trimester

During the third trimester, iron continues to support your baby’s growth and your increased blood flow throughout the body. Calcium continues to help build bones, teeth and muscle mass. DHA and choline support the brain and nervous system, and vitamin K helps reduce the risk of blood clots in both mother and baby.

What happens if you forget your prenatal period for a few days?

The truth? No need to freak out. “If you miss a day or two of your prenatal vitamins, don’t worry—it happens to many women! Missing a dose now and then won’t hurt you or your baby in the long run,” says Dr. Jackson. If you forget, just take your next dose at the usual time and try not to stress about it, she adds.

This is why a healthy diet during pregnancy is so vital, adds Dr. Bro. “Eating well is one of the best ways to add vitamins and minerals to your body to support a growing pregnancy; prenatal vitamins are an addition to that,” she says.

Going a week or two without PNV is also not a cause for concern. In the first trimester, women often cannot tolerate any type of prenatal vitamin for weeks, points out dr. Bro. In these cases, she usually recommends a special folic acid supplement, which can be easier on the stomach; Low-risk women need a supplement of 400 micrograms.

This can become a problem if you skip your prenatal period for two weeks or longer, warns Dr. Jackson. “Regular skipping can lead to nutrient deficiencies over time,” she says. “This is of particular concern for mothers who may already have low levels of the nutrient.” Research has shown that folic acid is key to preventing neural tube defects, and iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can affect both you and your baby.

What happens if you forget to take your prenatal for a month or longer

In this case, it’s important to talk to your gynecologist to see if there’s a better option for you or if there are other things you can do to try and remember to take it, says Dr. Bro.

“Skipping prenatal vitamins for months can have a significant impact,” Dr. Jackson. Over time, nutrient deficiencies become more pronounced, she warns, which can lead to complications such as low birth weight, developmental delays or a higher risk of birth defects.

Should you double up on your prenatal if you forget to take one?

“Doubling up on prenatal vitamins is not necessary and generally not recommended, as taking too much of certain nutrients — like iron — can cause more harm than good,” says Dr. Jackson. (Plus, taking back-to-back prenatals can cause an extra bout of nausea if you’re susceptible to PNV to begin with.)

If you forget to take one, just continue with your regular dose the next day, says Dr. Jackson.

What to do if you’re so sick you can’t take your prenatals

As you may (unfortunately!) know from first-hand experience, one of the reasons some women skip a few days before giving birth is because of morning sickness and severe nausea during pregnancy. Here’s what to do if you fall into this category:

• Take the prenatal with food. A small meal or snack can ease the stomach, so pair your PNV with a snack.

• Split your dose. Most prenatal vitamins are one or two capsules. “If your vitamin regimen includes multiple pills, try taking one in the morning and one in the evening to ease your stomach,” says Dr. Jackson.

• Switch to a vitamin that’s easier on your stomach. Ah, the magic of the B6. “Some prenatals contain extra vitamin B6, which can reduce nausea,” says Dr. Jackson. There are also gummy or chewable options that many women find more tolerable than traditional capsule forms. Look for a vitamin that contains B6 or ask your doctor about a specific B6 supplement (often recommended for morning sickness).

• Take a prenatal vitamin before bed. If you feel so nauseous that you can’t take your prenatal vitamins, try taking them in the evening, right before bed, says Dr. Bro. That way, you’ll most likely sleep when you’re sick without even noticing.

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• Talk to your doctor. Always consult your OBGYN or other trusted health care provider if you are concerned that your prenatal vitamin is affecting your nausea or want to switch brands. In cases of nausea, doctors may recommend trying daytime anti-nausea medications, such as vitamins that contain both B6 and doxylamine, or other prescription drug options, such as doxylamine and pyridoxine a combination (Diclegis) of metoclopramide (Reglan), promethazine (Phenergan), and ondansetron (Zofran), says Dr. Bro.

And what if nothing works and you keep throwing them up? dr. Jackson shares this rule of thumb: If it’s been two hours or more, your body has probably absorbed enough nutrients, but if you’re throwing up within two hours, your body may not have gotten what it needs, and you may want to take another dose later in the day or contact your doctor for personalized advice.

3 things you can do to help remember your prenatal pregnancies

When it comes down to it, PNV nutrients usually only stay in your body for about a day, so taking them consistently can help you maintain proper levels, says Dr. Jackson. If forgetting to take them is a problem, it can help to make them part of your daily routine. Follow these tips to put your prenatal watch on autopilot:

1. Put your prenatals in a super visible location: Place your prenatal vitamin bottle in a highly visible place, such as the sink, next to the coffee pot, or on the counter next to the refrigerator. Setting them up by something that is you I know that you will use that day (like your toothbrush or on your desk next to your computer!), will help them become part of your daily routine.
2. Buy a pill box: Some women may find that incorporating a box of pills into their routine (especially if you’re taking other medications or supplements) is an easier way to ensure you don’t miss your daily prenatal. There are a number of affordable and convenient options available online (like these prenatal vitamin options) and at your local pharmacy or grocery store.

   Many pill boxes have a container for each day of the week so you can pre-portion your PNV and other pregnancy-related supplements your doctor might recommend, such as omega-3 EPA/DHA, calcium, and choline, at the beginning of the week. Having a pill case also makes it easier to travel with your PNV, as you don’t have to lug a full bottle everywhere.

3. Set a daily alarm: It sounds so simple, but setting an alarm is a game changer for many women. “Sometimes a little buzz at the right time is all you need to remember,” says Dr. Jackson.

Last but not least, remember, the best prenatal is the one you’ll take daily, so it’s perfectly fine to switch brands if your prenatal doesn’t agree with your stomach. In particular, if you find yourself vomiting regularly after taking a prenatal vitamin, you may want to consider switching to a different brand or trying a chewable or liquid form of a prenatal vitamin, says Dr. Chelliah. Just talk to your supplier to make sure your new choice contains all the nutrients you need.

When you first find out you’re pregnant, you’re in your own little bubble. Here’s the exciting news that only you (and maybe your partner) know – but it’s still early days, and the first trimester is a critical stage in your baby’s development. Should you reveal the secret to your friends, family, and boss, or hold off on that Instagram post until you’ve completed some prenatal tests?

According to mom u BabyCenter Communitythe best way forward is to trust your intuition. Here’s what they had to say about sharing the big news.

1. “My husband and I immediately shared the news with our closest friends and family. I don’t know how people can hold back! I’m 8 weeks now and I’m going for my first ultrasound today. It’s so exciting.” — @KelliD1991
2. “I always tell people right off the bat that I’m pregnant. I’m tired, cranky, nauseous and high. I’d rather they just know and not wonder why the hell I’m not fun.” — @MaosLostSox
3. “We shared with our parents right away, but we’ll wait to share with the rest of our close family and friends. After the first trimester, we’ll share publicly… I think there are some benefits to not sharing with the world right away. You can enjoy it” and soaking in pregnancy alone or with just your partner, but holding back can become stressful because you can’t share your first-trimester nerves with anyone is our compromise.” — @Clarablara
4. “I plan to tell relatives and friends after we hear the baby’s heartbeat. Just to be sure.” — @peliz
5. “We’ve been really open about our supportive IVF journey, so we’ve decided to announce when we see a heartbeat. We know it can be risky, but now we’re choosing to celebrate (our baby) with friends and family.” — @ChelMarge
6. “My husband is the type who wants to wait to tell people. I’ve had two miscarriages and he doesn’t want to tell people and then he has to tell people we lost the baby. On the other hand, I hate waiting, and I’d rather have everyone’s support from the beginning. I also hated telling my mom I was pregnant and had a miscarriage (at the same time I didn’t want to tell her I was pregnant). We announced at 8 weeks.” — @VictoriaJulia
7. “My partner was panicking about it at first and had to talk to people to calm his nerves, so he immediately invited all his family and a bunch of his friends. Becoming a father is a big thing for him, so I don’t blame him. His chatter I had the first ultrasound and saw the heartbeat at 9 weeks and since then I slowly started telling other friends and professional acquaintances.” — @FarmerAnna
8. “I’m in the mindset of waiting until someone has to know to tell them… My husband knows, but I don’t tell my kids until I’m serious (for a 5 and 2 year old, 7 or 8 months could be a lifetime ), and I won’t mention it to people at work until I have to too.” — @lakayde
9. “I’m generally more of a private person when it comes to social media, so we haven’t done any big announcements there. I know it’s not the norm anymore, but we just told close friends and family for about 10 to 12 weeks and let it travel by word of mouth .” — @Toofers5
10. “I’m thinking about not sharing on social media until the baby comes because it will be more fun.” — @Brogiegirl
11. “I’m waiting until I give birth. Once you have kids like we do, no one is surprised that you’re pregnant, but they’re shocked when you show up somewhere with a new baby.” — @SnowflakeNY
12. “My first (pregnancy) I told my family at 14 weeks, I’m working at 16 weeks and posted online at 21 weeks (after my mid-term ultrasound). This one, I’m going to tell my family at 14 weeks, work at 16 weeks and I don’t plan on posting on the internet until after the baby comes… I’m also a naturally anxious pregnant woman and like to make sure everything is fine before the family finds out.” — @hope101015
13. “I don’t have a good reason (to wait 20 weeks) other than people stopped getting excited with us after baby #3. I don’t want to listen to their comments or deal with their negativity bursting my joy bubble. Or their Fear, I can to think of a few people who will ask me if this is safe because my last pregnancy was a miscarriage, and because I’m (gasp!) over 35.” — @countineveryblessing
14. “With my first daughter I was young and in an abusive relationship. My ex told everyone he wanted it and they made me wait. I only told three people until I was 18 weeks pregnant. By then I came out, so everyone understood that my daughter is now almost 8 years old, I’m in a happy relationship, and we’ve been telling some people (that I’m pregnant) … I’m 7 weeks today.” — @Thelittlemermaid5
15. “I think I’ll call Dad tonight. He’s getting old, and I hate that he’s so far away. I have his only grandchild and I need to start remembering that tomorrow is not promised. So enjoy today!” — @CCCrazy

A runny nose is common in winter. And while you I can if you use wipes, they can lead to unpleasant rubbing on the baby’s sensitive skin. Boogie wipes contain a saline solution to help get rid of dirt. They also contain aloe, chamomile and vitamin E for a soft, soothing feel.

Parents say

“At first I didn’t use them, and I bought some on a whim when my daughter had a cold. Now we love them.”

“You might think these are too expensive for their purpose, until your baby gets sick and all you want to do is feel better (or at least not worse)… and then they’re SO worth it. They are justifiably soft and moist. They don’t quite do the same thing as a Frida might pull off a fool, but they do help break up the dry snot around the nose and soften some of the stuffing. At least they don’t irritate their delicate little noses at a time when any discomfort is overwhelming. We now have a triple pack in our arsenal for the future!”

When you’re about to have a baby, any deviation from the “standard” pregnancy can be scary.

One thing that might sound scary, but is actually completely normal? Retroverted uterus. Also known as a tilted uterus, this is a common condition – around 1 in 5 pregnant women have a retroverted uterus.

“A retroverted uterus has no impact on pregnancy diagnosis or outcomes; it’s just a variant of normal,” says Layan Alrahmani, MD, an ob/gyn, maternal-fetal medicine specialist and member of BabyCenter’s medical advisory board.

What is a retroverted uterus?

A retroverted uterus is one that tilts backward (toward the spine) instead of forward (toward the navel). It is also called tilted uterus, tilted uterus, tilted cervix or inverted uterus.

A tilted uterus is quite normal, just not as common as a uterus that tilts forward. About 20% of women have a tip of the uterus.

I had a tilted uterus in all my pregnancies. They never said it was a problem, it was just harder to see the baby in the first trimester.

– BabyCenter Community Member Colleenrw818

What causes a retroverted uterus?

Some women are born with a tilted uterus. Others have a tilted uterus as a result of:

• Scars. The uterus can be pulled back or retained due to scar tissue resulting from endometriosis, infection, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or pelvic surgery (including a previous cesarean delivery).
• An enlarged uterus, due to a tumor or fibroid, or a previous pregnancy, can tilt backwards.
• Weak pelvic muscles. After childbirth or menopause, the uterus can tilt backwards because the ligaments that support it are weakened.

What are the symptoms of a retroverted uterus?

Although most women have no symptoms, a retroverted uterus can cause:

• Menstrual pain or cramps
• Pain during sex
• Minor urinary incontinence or bladder pressure
• Recurrent UTIs

You will know if you have a retroverted uterus when your caregiver performs a pelvic exam. Ultrasound can confirm the correct position.

Can I get pregnant with a retroverted uterus?

Yes, you can get pregnant with a retroverted uterus. In fact, a retroverted uterus has no effect on your ability to get pregnant.

However, if your retroverted uterus is the result of a condition such as PID, fibroids, or endometriosis, any of these can affect your fertility.

How will a retroverted uterus affect my pregnancy?

A retroverted uterus is unlikely to affect your pregnancy in any way.

However, it is possible that a retroverted uterus can cause:

• Back pain. It makes sense that you can have back pain if your uterus is putting pressure on your spine. But many pregnant women have back pain regardless of the position of the uterus, and there is no scientific evidence that a retroverted uterus will make back pain worse.
• Difficulty finding the baby during ultrasound. Ultrasound of a retroverted uterus can be difficult because the baby is just a little further along. If this is the case, a transvaginal ultrasound (done through the vagina with a specially designed wand) will get a better picture of them.

“I had a tilted uterus during all my pregnancies,” she says BabyCenter Community member Colleenrw818. “They never said it was a problem, it just made it harder to see the baby in the first trimester.”

These potential problems will likely disappear after the first trimester, as your uterus grows into your belly and straightens up.

Very rarely, the uterus can get stuck in the pelvis. This is called a closed uterus and increases the risk of miscarriage. Depending on when the condition is diagnosed, your caregiver may try to pull your uterus out. A closed uterus occurs in only one out of every 3,000 to 10,000 pregnancies.

Will a retroverted uterus affect labor and delivery?

Having a tilted uterus will most likely not affect your labor and delivery. Although there is speculation that a retroverted uterus will increase the risk of childbirth, there is no scientific evidence to support this.

After your baby is born, your uterus may return to a retroverted position or it may settle into a different position. It depends on how much weight you gained during pregnancy and how much your ligaments stretched. Whatever position it finds itself in, it is unlikely to cause problems after delivery or in future pregnancies.