How to Fight Morning Sickness

How to Fight Morning

You are pregnant and having constant bouts of the dreaded morning sickness. Whether you have some place to be, people to see, or a few other kids to take care of, you need to be freed of this nausea. There are many home remedies that you can do to help yourself feel better. Here are some tips on how to stop morning sickness:

Crackers
You may have heard your mother telling you to eat crackers when you had an upset stomach as a child. This is because crackers will help to absorb any excess acid in the stomach. They are also pretty plain, which will help keep food in your stomach while avoiding any over stimulation of your senses that can also cause you to have morning sickness. Eating crackers is a method many pregnant women swear by to help them stop the morning sickness that they have. I recommend eating saltine crackers or another type of very plain cracker.

Small Meals
Stick to small meals. This will keep food in your stomach, which can help you avoid worsening your morning sickness from having an empty acidic stomach. All of your senses can trigger hunger, which starts putting acid into your stomach for anticipation of eating. If you don't eat, you now have a stomach of acid. This can upset anyone's stomach, and this is what you will be avoiding by eating many small meals throughout the day. Eating small meals every few hours is also a great way to keep your metabolism high.

Peppermint Candy
As weird as it may sound, peppermint candy has helped a lot of pregnant women fight morning sickness. Peppermint is known to help with nausea. Having something with a strong minty flavor in your mouth can help stop you from thinking about feeling sick. Peppermint is a common home remedy that helps soothe the stomach and muscles. Similarly, you may find relief from other peppermint products, such as peppermint tea.

Fluids
Keep drinking fluids if you are morning sick often because it can dehydrate you. It may be beneficial to drink drinks that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks. Drink fluids between the small meals that you eat, to avoid making your stomach feel way too full.

Medicine
If you believe that your pregnancy morning sickness is more than what is typical, you should talk to you doctor. Doctors can prescribe anti-nausea medications that are safe for both you and the baby. It's important that you can keep food down so that you and the baby get proper nutrition. You can try taking Benadryl, which has the active ingredient diphenhydramine that is known for being an anti-nausea medication. According to WebMD, Benadryl (methamphetamine) is a safe medication to take during pregnancy. Keep in mind; this will make you tired because it's also used as a sleep aid.

Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy (AFLP): What You Need to Know

Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) is a rare condition in which too much fat accumulates in the liver. If detected early enough, the damage is minimal. However, left untreated or poorly treated the condition can cause liver failure and even death. Although AFLP is rare, it cannot be predicted or prevented. In the past, the condition was almost always fatal. However, thanks to medical advances, mortality from AFLP has been greatly reduced. Who gets AFLP?
AFLP is a rare condition affecting one in every 7,000 to 11,000 pregnancies. It normally occurs during the last trimester of pregnancy but can occur any time during the second half of pregnancy (after twenty weeks gestation.) However, it can also occur during the period immediately following delivery. AFLP most often affects first-time pregnancies. Although the condition does not usually affect subsequent pregnancies, in some cases AFLP can recur.
What causes AFLP?
The exact cause of the condition is not known. In many cases, however, AFLP has been found to be associated with an abnormality of fatty-acid metabolism as a result of a deficiency in LCHAD. The deficiency of LCHAD results in the accumulation of fatty acid in the liver. When this occurs in the fetus, it brings on the disease in the mother. In such cases, the disease is known to be genetic, following autosomal recessive pattern. Because its cause is known, genetic testing can take place to possibly prevent the disease. However, this form of the condition only occurs in a fraction of AFLP cases. In the remainder of AFLP cases, the cause is unknown.
What are the symptoms of AFLP?
Symptoms of AFLP can vary greatly. Sometimes they can even go unnoticed until delivery. Symptoms can include but are not limited to: vomiting, jaundice, abdominal pain, malaise, headache, tiredness, confusion, nausea, and pruritis. Although they are not true "symptoms," AFLP has also been found to be associated with other conditions including preeclampsia and diabetes insipidus. Patients with these conditions should be aware of the symptoms of AFLP and contact their doctor immediately if they think they are experiencing any.
How is AFLP diagnosed?
In order to diagnose the condition, a doctor will first listen to the symptoms the patient is describing, if any. He/she will also look for certain signs of AFLP such as encephalopathy, polydipsia, and ascites. If he/she suspects AFLP, then certain tests may be performed to confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions. One test that may be performed is a liver biopsy. Another is an ultrasound which is used to look for fat build up in the liver. Blood tests are also used to check for elevated liver enzymes and low blood sugar, both signs of AFLP.
How is AFLP treated?
In most cases, once AFLP has been diagnosed, hospitalization and prompt delivery immediately follow. If the mother is unstable, she is usually stabilized before the baby is born. Although the baby can be born vaginally, it is usually done via cesarean section because AFLP poses an increased risk of bleeding to the mother. Depending on the severity of the condition, the mother may need to be in intensive care anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. In general, treatment is aimed at combating and preventing the many complications of AFLP following delivery. These include cerebral edema, renal failure, hypoglycemia, infections, and hemorrhage. Although the condition usually improves after delivery, there have been some cases where marked deterioration follows delivery. Subsequent treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In rare cases, a liver transplant is necessary.
What is the prognosis of those with AFLP?
The prognosis for mother and infant depends on the severity of the disease. The mortality rate for mothers with the condition has been dramatically reduced in the last decade. It now stands at eighteen percent. Most of the cases of mortality are the result of complications of AFLP such as hemorrhage but not AFLP itself. Likewise, the mortality rate for infants born to mothers with AFLP has been reduced and now stands at twenty-three percent. Most cases of infant mortality are believed to be the result of premature delivery. In the past, AFLP was almost always fatal. Now, thanks to medical advances, mortality from the condition has been greatly reduced.
Sources
MedicineNet
Wikipedia

123 Third Trimester Weekly Pregnancy Calendar: Your Baby and Your Development

123

Third Trimester Weekly Pregnancy Calendar: Your Baby and Your Development

A pregnancy is, on average, forty weeks. Each and every week is a new and exciting experience. The following is a weekly pregnancy calendar to give a general idea of what to expect in the third trimester for each week of your pregnancy, as well as how your baby will be growing.
Month Seven, Week Twenty Eight:
How your baby is growing:
The lungs finish forming this week boosting the chance of survival even more. If born today your baby may even survive without medical aid. Your baby's tiny eyes are also now capable of opening after being fused shut for so many weeks. Your baby likely now weighs around two and a half pounds and may measure up to fifteen inches tall! The baby is beginning to put the finishing touches on all parts of it's body. After that it is only a matter of packing on the pounds. If your baby is a boy his testes are also now descending.
How you may be changing:
Your third trimester has now officially begun. You may think weight gain is all you have left to deal with, but many women actually experience the worst symptoms of pregnancy in the last trimester. Your growing size only makes things more uncomfortable. Now is a good time to start thinking about a labor plan, but don't think it to be set in stone. Labor and delivery can be full of surprises. It is always best to keep an open mind and be prepared for anything and everything. Also if it is currently the hot season in your area remember to stay out of the sun and avoid standing for long periods of time. This can cause dizziness, which could cause falling.
Month Eight, Week Twenty Nine:
How your baby is growing:
The brain makes a big leap this week and your baby can now regulate it's own body temperature and achieve rhythmic breathing. Brain activity increases, and some researchers even believe babies dream by week twenty-nine. The bone marrow is complete and has taken over full charge of red blood cell production. Your baby is now probably just under a whopping three pounds and stands between fifteen and seventeen inches tall. It can no longer twist and turn as space in the amniotic sack continues to diminish. By now, other than hard kicks, you'll notice movements becoming more subtle. You may even be able to tell if it is a foot or hand hitting you.
How you may be changing:
Your internal organs are now becoming very crowded. This can make for difficulty breathing and may cause all variety of aches and pains. It also means far more frequent bathroom breaks as the bladder becomes squished. Hang in there, you're nearly finished. This week the body also begins to release prolactin. Prolactin triggers the production of milk, so if you haven't been leaking already, you may notice a bit of clear, white fluid leaking out now, or in the weeks to come. This fluid, called colostrum is an extra rich type of milk that is packed with antibodies to protect your new baby.
Month Eight, Week Thirty:
How your baby is growing:
Brain development continues this week as well as plenty of body growth to match. Your baby is now around three pounds and will likely still be between fifteen and seventeen inches tall. After week thirty growth varies even more widely from baby to baby. The average baby is twenty inches long and weighs eight pounds at birth. Your baby is also becoming far more self aware and can now differentiate light from dark. It can also trace light with it's eyes. Some researchers believe using a flash light outside the womb for baby to trace with its eyes will stimulate brain development. You can try this in a dim room to see if you get a reaction. Stimulating or not, interacting with your baby while it is still inside you is fun.
How you may be changing:
Positioning is becoming important this week and your belly has now reached about the size of a watermelon. Positioning is important in more ways than one. Maintaining proper posture will help your breathing and cut down on back aches. New positions will have to be found in the bedroom as well. Continuing intercourse while pregnant will strengthen your relationship with your baby's father by challenging your comfort zone. You'll find sex is a whole new ball game with a beach ball between you, and you may find a few new positions you like. Just avoid those that place pressure on your abdomen.
Month Eight, Week Thirty One:
How your baby is growing:
Even if you're breathless your placenta is still providing plenty of oxygen to your baby which is fattening up this week. Length growth begins to slow down, but weight doubles in the final weeks. Your baby is likely around three and a half pounds by now. It's eyes continue to develop, and the irises are now capable of contracting and dilating. Your baby's finger nails have now reached the ends of those tiny fingers. Tiny fingers which are no longer translucent! Fat has now become sufficient enough in your baby that it's skin will appear like a normal newborn baby.
How you may be changing:
Your sleep has been cut probably more than in half at this point between bathroom breaks and sheer discomfort, but you can't bring yourself to sit still. This is because the "nesting" instinct often takes hold by week thirty one. The nesting instinct urges you to build a nest for your baby, so to speak, ensuring everything is ready for him or her when they arrive. Be careful not to over do it, and don't be ashamed to recruit help. You may also experience pelvic pain at this point as what little space there is between your hips stretches.
Month Eight, Week Thirty Two:
How your baby is growing:
The wrinkles are ironing out! This week your baby's skin begins to become smooth as, well, a baby's bottom. Your baby may also already have a full head of hair. Other than that baby is simply continuing to gain weight this week, likely reaching the four pound mark. Taller babies may already be pushing eighteen inches while others will still be back at fifteen to sixteen. Babies born at this point have almost a one hundred percent survival rate, though they may have issues suckling due to an immature neuro-muscular maturity. You may want to begin keeping a kick count of your baby's activity as a decrease can indicate approaching labor.
How you may be changing:
Many women begin to experience Braxton Hicks contractions this week, if they haven't been having them previously. Braxton Hicks contractions are harmless contractions of the abdominal muscles that prepare the cervix for your approaching birth. Braxton Hicks contractions will likely not hurt really and if they do the pain will go away with time or a change of position. If your contractions don't go away or become frequent and rhythmic, occurring five minutes or less apart, call your prenatal health care provider. You should also call your provider if you experience sudden swelling of the hands or feet. All women experience swelling and bloating during pregnancy but a very sudden onset can be a sign of preeclampsia which can cause labor complications.
Month Nine, Week Thirty Three:
How your baby is growing:
Your baby now weighs a little over four pounds and will continue to put on about eight ounces a week from now on. It may have reached the height it will be born at by now, or it may even grow more. Many babies "drop" this week or turn and allow their heads to slip into the pelvis if they haven't done this already. If your baby has dropped you'll be able to breathe easier and your baby's brain will get better oxygen for it's final touches. Your baby is also beefing up it's immune system now compliments of your blood.
How you may be changing:
Your steady weight gain continues and you may begin to feel anxious or impatient for your baby to be here. Remember to keep good communication with your significant other, because they are likely feeling the same way. You are in this together and it is almost over.You may feel rhythmic twitches in your abdomen from now on. These are hiccups! Not your hiccups, but your baby's. Many babies begin to practice using their diaphragms around week thirty three which can lead to hiccups. It really is a bizarre sensation you have to experience to describe.
Month Nine, Week Thirty Four:
How your baby is growing:
Your baby's brain is now making the final nerve connections and is growing everyday, it is even learning from the womb! Your baby's brain won't ever finish growing, however. His or her brain will triple in size from birth to one year old, and will continue to grow for the rest of their life. Speaking of growing, your baby is likely four and a half to five pounds now and urinating almost a pint a day! Good thing amniotic fluid refreshes every three hours. Just imagine how many diapers that will be in just a few short weeks.
How you may be changing:
Early labor is a real possibility now. You'll want to obtain and install a rear facing car seat in your vehicle in order to be ready to take your new baby home. If you haven't finished your labor plan or packed your hospital bag this is also a great time. Keep in mind, even after delivering your baby you'll likely still look about three months pregnant, so choose sizes appropriately. Expect to stay in the hospital at least three days if this is your first baby. Don't forget amenities like a tooth brush and tooth paste. As uncomfortable and anxious as you may be, relaxing is the best thing for you and your baby this week.
Month Nine, Week Thirty Five:
How your baby is growing:
Most everything is complete from the vital organs to the toes nails and your baby is ready for the grand finally now. Your baby is just putting the finishing touches on it's immune and nervous system while gaining more weight. Past this week little is left to do but put on fat. Even the baby's hair is growing and it may be over an inch long by birth. Your baby is now probably around five pounds and may be even longer than twenty inches. Weight gain may slow now to about five ounces a week rather than eight.
How you may be changing:
You're probably thinking you can't get much bigger, but you can and will. If you're still employed you may want to consider beginning your maternity leave as labor could occur at any time. If you do decide to keep working avoid standing for long periods or time. If you work in an office and sit all day be sure to get up and walk around every few hours to reduce swelling and stiffness. If your significant other works now is also a great time to arrange child, pet and home care while you're in the hospital. These things shouldn't be left to the last minute. You'll have enough to deal with while in the hospital.
Month Nine, Week Thirty Six:
How your baby is growing:
Your baby is now complete! Well, in the sense that pretty much all that is left to do is gain weight. If you go into labor now you are considered full term and the labor won't be slowed or stopped. Your baby likely weighs between five and six pounds now and is twenty or more inches long. Your prenatal care provider will feel your abdomen and attempt to estimate it's exact size to be sure it won't pose labor complications. If your baby begins to become too large to exit the womb naturally you may be induced early.
How you may be changing:
Ninety-six percent of babies have dropped by week thirty-six, sitting head down and ready to go. If you do go into labor this week don't feel bad. A due date is just a general date of arrival. Some women go into labor weeks before and some weeks after. If your prenatal health care provider says everything is okay, it is. You'll also be tested for Group Strep B this week to ensure you won't be infecting your baby on it's way into the world. Check-ups will now be weekly.
Month Nine, Week Thirty Seven:
How your baby is growing:
Your baby now spends more time practicing breathing than kicking, partially due to a lack of space. As your baby breathes in amniotic fluid it is also swallowing some which will later become your baby's first bowel movement or meconium. Meconium is a black, tar-like poop that will pass within the first twenty-four hours of birth. If it doesn't this could indicate a bowel blockage. Meconium is made up of amniotic fluid, dead skin cells and shedding lanugo. That's right your baby is also shedding this week, and by birth the majority of the fuzzy skin coating will be gone. Although, many babies retain hair on their face and ears.,
How you may be changing:
This week you may lose the mucus plug you formed in your cervix. Sometimes this plug is accompanied by blood and hence referred to as "bloody show". Some women lose their mucus plug more slowly over time. Either way once the mucus plug is lost it is a sign that labor is fast approaching. You will also feel sort of loose this week as the hormone relaxin causes joints relax, hence the name. Relaxin's purpose is to allow the joints of the pelvis to more ease of passage for your baby. You'll be thankful for this later!
Month Ten, Week Thirty Eight:
How your baby is growing:
Baby's growth redoubles the week and can become as much as an ounce a day! Your weight gain however will likely slow down or stop altogether. How is that possible? The baby is exchanging weight for amniotic fluid. Some babies have to be induced early at this point because they have consumed too much of their amniotic fluid. Not to worry though, excluding complications that could occur with any labor, your baby has a one hundred percent chance of survival and won't likely need any extra medical care.
How you may be changing:
Some women experience tingling, numbness or electric-like pains running down their legs this week. This is caused by your baby's head putting pressure on nerves as it settles lower into your pelvis. You may be feeling extremely anxious to meet your baby at this point but avoid silly induction practices such as castor oil or herbs. In the end these methods will only add to your discomfort. Your baby will come when it's ready, and if it doesn't your prenatal health care provider will provide a safe induction. Try and be patient.
Month Ten, Week Thirty Nine:
How your baby is growing:
Not much is happening now. Your baby has likely reached it's birth weight and height by now. It is just continuing to practice breathing and may gain small amounts of weight. Hair, nail, and brain growth will continue. Researchers believe that sometime this week or in the next couple of weeks your baby will actually decide to be born. Your baby will simply send an electrical signal to the placenta which will trigger the necessary hormones to begin your birth. The miracle of life really is amazing! If researcher's are correct then your baby really does choose to come out or stay in.
How you may be changing:
Even if you are tired try to keep busy this week. If you sit around just waiting for your labor to occur it will seem to take forever, only adding to your anxiety. Since you're wondering though, there are a few hints that could indicate the baby will be here soon. Such as; loss of mucus plug and/or bloody show, increase in nesting urge drive, weight loss, appetite increase, and loose stools. None of these guarantee a labor is imminent, but they may be an indicative.
Month Ten, Week Forty:
How your baby is growing:
What's going on with the majority of babies can be seen at this point, because they've been born! While only four percent of labors take place on their actual due date, many occur before the forty week mark. If your baby hasn't been born it will continue to gain weight and lose it's fuzz this week. You may have daily examinations at this point to ensure that your babies amniotic fluid remains sufficient. Many babies end up being induced if they surpass the fortieth week for health reasons.
How you may be changing:
You're either recovering from labor now or suffering through what could be two more weeks of pregnancy. If you've had the baby you're likely exhausted. Take advantage of this period of restfulness in your baby and sleep. Plenty of people are going to want to see the little bundle of joy, but don't feel bad in asking them to come another time. If you haven't had the baby, hang in there! It has to come out eventually one way or another. Try to stay positive and remain busy unless your practitioner has indicated you must be on bed rest.
If you've had your baby congratulations, if not feel welcome to read the final weeks of your pregnancy in my next article, post-term pregnancy weekly calendar. If you have had your baby check out my profile for tons of helpful information on baby care.

What You Should Know: The Third Trimester of Pregnancy (weeks 28-40+)

This is one of a series of articles on pregnancy. For more information about pregnancy and birth options, see my other articles including my series on homebirth. The Third Trimester
Welcome to the home stretch! The third trimester begins at 27 weeks and ends with the birth of your baby. Lots of changes are still happening with you so it's best to be aware of how you're doing and feeling, particularly with labor and delivery being right around the bend.
Emotional Changes
This trimester brings with it a sense of frustration. It's difficult to sleep, you may have assorted aches and pains through your back, pelvis, and legs, and you have so much to do. You're hopefully preparing the baby's things for the impending arrival, yet you probably feel cumbersome, clumsy and large. You may feel annoyed with the fact that everyone stops you to ask you questions or give you advice.
Physical Changes
No one can help but notice your pregnancy now. Atop the large belly, you may have adopted the 'pregnancy waddle' from trying to keep your balance and shift your weight as you walk.
Frequent urination: you're in the bathroom all the time, right? It may just feel like it, but you'd beg to differ. Not only is the baby firmly resting on your bladder, but the amniotic fluid surrounding him is continually refreshed so you have to get rid of the old.
Acne: hormonal changes in pregnancy tend to lead to break outs. Some women only break out around the time that they would have had their periods, but other women find themselves struggling with acne throughout their entire pregnancy. Be careful using acne treatments, as some are dangerous during pregnancy.
Fatigue: Not only are you tired, but you can't sleep! The third trimester is a time of sleep changes. Some people joke that it's to prepare you for when your baby keeps you up all night, but you don't think that's funny now! Aches and pains, pregnancy dreams, frequent urination, and the inability to get or stay comfortable plague the third trimester. The only saving grace is that it's worth it.
Gas: gas continues to be a problem throughout your pregnancy, as your body is digesting food for two people. It shouldn't be so bad in the third trimester.
Food Aversions/Cravings: You'll still be dealing with food aversions and cravings. Within reason, I still recommend following what your body wants.
Headaches: increased blood flow as well as hormonal changes and exhaustion can lead to headaches. If you're prone to migraines, this can make things more difficult, particularly since some migraine medications aren't safe for pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before taking anything stronger than Tylenol.
Swelling: your rings don't fit, your shoes don't fit, your socks dig into your ankles. Sound familiar? You're dealing with swollen hands and feet. This persists off and on until the baby is born or soon after the birth. Keep your feet up, rest when you can, drink plenty of water so your body can flush it out. If it gets really bad, talk to your doctor or midwife to see if it's okay.
Pelvic pain: Oh your aching joints! In order to prepare your body for the pending birth, your body releases hormones that loosen up your joints, particularly the ones in the pelvic region. This can cause pelvic pain, hips 'slipping out of the joint', lower back pain, and even something called Pubis Symphysis Disorder, in which the joints in your pelvis loosen, ache, and sometimes slide against each other making it difficult and painful to move or walk. If you end up with this condition, try to sleep with pillows supporting your legs and try not to do anything strenuous. You'll thank yourself later.
Aches and pains: Does everything hurt? Do you feel like complaining all the time? It's normal. Your baby is sucking the calcium out of your bones, your joints are loosening, there's extra weight from the baby and all his baggage (including baggage he gave you from gaining weight during the pregnancy), you have a headache, you think even your EYES hurt and it's just a dull ache that never seems to let up. Try to go easy on yourself, don't work yourself too hard, rest when you can, and take tylenol if you have to. Remember, this will all be over soon.
Heartburn: Welcome to dragonbreath central. The baby is shoving your stomach into your throat, and you're convinced your hair is on fire. Try tums, pepto bismol, eating ice chips, and eating things that will absorb stomach acids. Spicy foods aren't your friend right now, unless they're a craving. Be warned though, if you eat spicy or difficult-to-digest foods, you'll be paying for it later...especially if you lay down.
Itching: Scratch, scratch, scratch. Your stomach itches, your feet itch, your arms itch. WHY? Particularly in the stomach region, the stretching skin leads to itching. Professionals recommend moisturizer, but it never seems to fully do the trick. Try to keep your skin moist, DO use lotion or something to help with it, and know that it'll be over soon.
Weight loss: WHAT? You've been gaining weight for months, but near the end of the last trimester, you could lose a few pounds! This is all part of your body preparing for the baby. The baby is taking in more nutrients than ever, and there's no room for your stomach, let alone in it. Some weight loss is very common just before the birth.
Linea Negra: You can't see it, but your husband says there's a line from your belly button to your pubic region. This is a normal discoloration of pregnancy, and is more pronounced the darker your skin tone is. It will go away after the delivery.
What about sex?
You may want it all the time, or not at all. You're feeling huge, but whether that affects you or not really depends on you. If your husband thinks pregnancy is attractive, you may have him chasing you around the house. If you're not in the mood, this is a good time to learn those toddler years skills you'll be using. Saying "no" over and over is great practice.
Sex during pregnancy won't hurt your baby unless your doctor or midwife tells you otherwise, so you don't need to be concerned from that aspect. On the plus side, you don't have to worry about getting pregnant!
Your Uterus
Your uterus is now large and in charge. The braxton hicks contractions you may have started feeling in the second trimester pick up to gear up for labor and postpartum. It grows upwards at a rate of about 1 centimeter per week until delivery (or until the baby drops), and you can hardly imagine it getting any bigger, most likely.
What is your baby doing?
Growing, growing, growing. Near the end of the third trimester, your baby is packing on the pounds at about 1 per week to prepare for the birth. Also, the surfactant starts developing in his lungs around 34 weeks so that he can breathe on the outside. Those cute little kicks are now reaching your ribs, and your baby gets stronger and stronger as the weeks go by. Everything is fully formed, the pre-birth fuzz starts to fall out and may be gone by the birth, and the finishing touches are underway.
Good luck and congratulations on your pregnancy! Don't forget to check out my articles on homebirth. I'd also love to hear what you think about my articles, so don't be afraid to comment!

What to Expect During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy

What to Expect During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy

The second trimester of pregnancy, which lasts from weeks fourteen to twenty-seven, is for many pregnant women the most exciting and the easiest trimester of pregnancy. Morning sickness has usually begun to fade and for many is completely gone by a few weeks into the second trimester. Mothers-to-be may feel more energetic and optimistic as they pass the danger zone for early miscarriage and their pregnancy begins to show. By the end of the second trimester of pregnancy the fetus can inhale, exhale and cry. The average length of a twenty-six week fetus is over fourteen inches in length and over a pound and a half in weight. As early as the end of the second trimester, the fetus has a fifty percent chance of survival if born from pre-term labor.
The Quad Screen test is performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. The Quad Screen test is a blood test that checks for markers indicating problems with the brain, spinal cord and other neural issues as well as certain genetic disorders. The test is safe for both mother and baby, but many mothers-to-be are choosing to forego the Quad Screen. There is a high rate of false-positives associated with this test. Other moms would rather be prepared for a possible birth defect and choose to have the test done.
One of the most exciting parts of the second trimester is the mid-pregnancy ultrasound. Usually between seventeen to twenty-two weeks of pregnancy an ultrasound is performed to check fluid levels, organ and bone development and the location of the placenta. Measurements of the baby are taken to ensure that his or her size is correct for the dates of the pregnancy. This ultrasound also allows parents to get a glimpse of their little one. While facial features aren't clear so early in the pregnancy, it is still amazing to watch the fetus move around in utero. If possible, most ultrasound technicians will try to guess the sex of the baby if the parents are interested in knowing. Sometimes it is possible to get a video of the ultrasound or pictures to share with family.
Around the time of the mid-pregnancy ultrasound many mothers-to-be are beginning to feel their baby move. Some feel movement earlier than others. Most second-or-more-time moms feeling movement sooner because they know what it feels like. Usually first time moms begin to feel movement around twenty weeks. It is not uncommon at this stage in the pregnancy to not feel movements frequently. Especially while busy, mothers-to-be might not notice the still subtle movements of the fetus.
Since most pregnant women experience a surge in energy and good mood in the second trimester of pregnancy this is a good time to plan a vacation, make a move or do other activities that will not be as easy or comfortable in the third trimester. Pregnant moms should take care not to over-exert themselves, however, as they take advantage of this "honeymoon" period of pregnancy.

What to Expect During the First Trimester of Pregnancy

The first trimester of pregnancy is a time of great change physically and emotionally. Your body undergoes extensive changes in preparation for the impending birth. Emotions flare as hormones rage through your body leaving massive unexplained mood swings in their wake. You begin to experience the first signs and symptoms of pregnancy. You begin to notice physical changes to your body which may seem alarming at first.
Some of the common symptoms that may manifest during the first trimester of pregnancy include missing your menstruation cycle, morning sickness, breast tenderness, swelling in the feet or ankles, bloating, weight gain, heartburn, constipation, an increased frequency in urination, sudden unexplainable mood swings, changes in appetite, increased fatigue, strange cravings, acne, a heightened sense of smell, frequent headaches, lower back pain, changes in vision and changes in libido. The aureoles around your nipples may darken, you may have mild cramping in the abdominal area, feel dizzy or light headed, experience an increase in hair and nail growth or growth of hair in unusual places, have unusual sensitivity to light or temperature, your nails may become brittle or your hair may become unusually dry or oily. Since every pregnancy is different there is no set "guide" to go by to determine symptoms that every woman may or may not experience during the first trimester of pregnancy, even if she has been pregnant before.
During the first trimester, the abdomen expands as the uterus enlarges to make room for the growing fetus, pushing other organs out of the way which often cause many bothersome symptoms such as lower back pain, abdominal cramps, gastrointestinal problems and increased frequency in urination. These symptoms usually subside after the fourth month. The breast begin to swell as the mammary glands enlarge in preparation to produce milk and dark bluish lines may appear in the breasts, the aureoles become darker and the breasts may be tender to the touch. This eventually lessens throughout the pregnancy until after the birth when the mammary glands begin to produce milk. Morning sickness usually subsides after the first trimester though some women will experience it throughout their pregnancy.
Prenatal care is extremely important during the first trimester of pregnancy. You should schedule an appointment with your health care provider as soon as you think you might be pregnant. Prenatal visits are typically scheduled for every four weeks during the first trimester unless there is cause for concern which might make the health care provider want to monitor you more closely. During each prenatal visit the health care provider will take a urine sample to test for protein and sugar in the urine and screen out potential problems like toxemia and gestational diabetes. The health care provider will give you a general checkup and record your weight gain, heart rate and blood pressure at each visit in order to monitor potential problems which may arise during the pregnancy. They will also prescribe prenatal vitamins. On future visits they may prescribe iron supplements if blood work shows signs of anemia.
During the first prenatal visit the health care provider will naturally give you a pregnancy test to validate the pregnancy. The health care provider will perform a pelvic exam on the first or second visit to check the cervix for thickness and take cultures for testing for cervical cancer and STD's. They will also estimate the deliver date of the fetus based on the date of your last menstrual cycle. This may change later during the pregnancy. Most health care providers will use an ultra sound test sometime during the first trimester to verify the due date and screen for potential problems or fetal abnormalities.
Your health care provider will want to discuss your medical history with you during the first visit and may follow up on potential problems at later visits. They will discuss lifestyle activities which should be limited or eliminated and answer any concerns you may have regarding activities and lifestyle choices. They will need detailed information about prior pregnancies, family history of birth defects or abnormalities, previous gynecological problems, use of birth control, any surgeries you may have had, previous exposure to lead or mercury, and any prescription medications or over the counter medicines you may be using. They will need as much accurate information as possible in order to ensure maternal and fetal health throughout the pregnancy. They will also discuss any concerns about work or home environments to eliminate the risk of the fetus being exposed to possibly detrimental elements like chemicals, toxins, radiation or exposure to disease.
Testing and screening for potential maternal and fetal health problems and birth defects is usually done during the first trimester. Blood work is typically done throughout the pregnancy but mostly during the first trimester. Pregnancy blood work done during the first trimester include tests that will determine your blood type, rule out RH factor (a complication that can arise from the mother and fetus's blood being incompatible), to check pregnancy hormone levels in the blood, to check iron and glucose levels, to check for immunities or exposure to diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox and HIV and to check for possible exposure to syphilis and hepatitis B. Other blood work is done to rule out concerns about genetic disorders and potential birth defects. If these tests show any cause for concern, the health care provider will request additional tests to be done.
The first trimester is considered the most crucial for the development of the fetus. It is during this time that the major organs and nerve and brain systems develop. Your health care provider will be able to give you information on proper nutrition and diet during pregnancy, lifestyle choices to avoid and activities to limit throughout your first trimester in order to ensure the healthiest pregnancy possible.

What to Expect During the First Trimester of Pregnancy

The first trimester of pregnancy includes weeks one-thirteen of pregnancy. The first trimester of pregnancy actually begins two weeks before (depending on your luteal phase or the length of time from ovulation until menses) a period is missed. Most women who use a home pregnancy test discover their pregnancy around four-five weeks, which is around the time of a missed period. The signs and symptoms of early pregnancy are few and subtle but many women can tell even before a positive pregnancy test that they are pregnant. Early pregnancy symptoms and Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms are very similar. Some women feel slight cramping, notice the subtle enlargement and soreness of their breasts and the darkening of the areola. It is likely that this breast tenderness will continue throughout the entire pregnancy and not be limited to the first trimester of pregnancy. The first trimester of pregnancy is a good time to find a supportive bra in a slightly larger size to accommodate growing breasts and weight gain that will seem to happen suddenly at some points of the pregnancy.
For most women nausea and/or vomiting does not occur immediately. Around six weeks of pregnancy some women will begin to experience the nausea and/or vomiting that is common in pregnancy. This pregnancy symptom can be helped with the use of Sea-bands, frequent and small meals, a breakfast high in protein, extra sleep, lying in a dark and quiet room, and sipping warm ginger tea. The morning sickness may occur at any time of the day and can last into the early second trimester. Many women begin to feel better as the levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) start to drop as early as ten-eleven weeks into the pregnancy.
The first trimester of pregnancy may be riddled with fear and doubt as symptoms wax and wane. While a loss of symptoms can certainly be an indicator of an impending miscarriage, symptoms may lessen or increase from day to day. A pregnant woman may notice symptoms more or less as she goes about her day and depending on how much time she has to think about the pregnancy.
While at this point in the pregnancy appetite is not a big factor, the need for extra sleep certainly is. Eating as much healthy food as possible is advantageous but many women find that eating is not very enjoyable in the first trimester. Certain smells and tastes may turn of the appetite immediately. Sleep is much more desired and pregnant women should take the extra sleep they need at this time. If it is possible for a prenatal vitamin to be swallowed then it is a good idea to start taking one during the first trimester, especially if no prenatal vitamins were taken during the preconception stage.
Appointments with a midwife or obstetrician are few in the first trimester. Most health care practitioners will want to see a pregnant woman around weeks seven-eight of the pregnancy. A routine pelvic exam will be done at this time. The uterus will be palpitated to be sure that its size is on target for the week of pregnancy. If there is a discrepancy between the date of the last menstrual period and the size of the uterus then an ultrasound may be performed to determine an estimated due date.
Four weeks after the first prenatal appointment another visit with the midwife or obstetrician will be scheduled. It may be possible at this time to hear the baby's heartbeat with use of a Doppler but there is no reason for concern if the heartbeat cannot be found this early. By the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy the heartbeat should be more easily found. As will become the routine for all prenatal visits, urine will be tested for protein which if found can be an indication of preeclampsia (pregnancy induced hypertension). The pregnant mother will be weighed; her blood pressure measured and possibly the health care provider will measure the height of the fundus which is the measurement from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus.
By about twelve weeks of pregnancy it may be possible for the uterus to be felt just above the pubic bone. Maternity clothes probably won't be necessary for first time mothers at this point but for those who have already had a child clothes may already be uncomfortable. Even first time mothers may have to wear looser fitting waistbands though they may not yet "show".
Emotions during the first trimester of pregnancy may vary from day to day. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy a woman may feel elated or depressed. Even for those women who intended to become pregnant, depression due to the fluctuation of hormones may occur.
The development of the baby in the first trimester of pregnancy is rapid. Around the time that most women are just finding out about their pregnancy the baby's heart has begun to beat. All of the body systems are either beginning to function or in the early stages of development. By the end of the first trimester the fetus will be around 2.5 inches long and weigh nearly a half an ounce. The baby moves a lot at this point but in first pregnancies mothers usually do not feel these movements because of the small size of the baby.
The first trimester of pregnancy can be one of the most difficult trimesters of pregnancy as the body works to sustain the life of the fetus and the woman learns to adjust to the changes and symptoms that early pregnancy brings. The first trimester of pregnancy sometimes seems to drag on endlessly while the mother-to-be waits for nausea to pass, the next prenatal appointment to come and exciting events such as the hearing the heartbeat and the first movements. As with everything, time passes and soon the pregnancy enters the next, more externally eventful phase.

5 Common Pregnancy Concerns During the First Trimester

After posting on Internet pregnancy message boards for two pregnancies, I have noticed that there are quite a few questions that seem to come up on an almost daily basis. It is understandable that pregnant women have many of the same concerns. Here are the most commonly asked questions during the first trimester of pregnancy and the answers to those questions. "Could I be pregnant?" - It is common to over analyze every possible symptom once you suspect that you could possibly be pregnant. The only way to answer this question is to simply take a test. Home pregnancy tests are readily available and priced reasonably. Many tests can even detect a pregnancy before a missed period. Be sure to check the instructions on your test and follow them carefully in order to get the most accurate result.
"Could I have gotten a false positive/negative test result?" - Most pregnancy tests are extremely reliable if taken correctly. There is a chance of a false negative due to low levels of hCG, the hormone used to detect pregnancy. If you get a negative test result but still suspect that you may be pregnant, it is a good idea to wait a few days and then retest. The chance of a false positive is very small because the hCG hormone detected by the test only shows up during pregnancy. Some tests use more dye than others and so the results may be faint, but any positive result can usually be considered conclusive.
"I am bleeding. Could I be miscarrying?" - Miscarriage is a very real concern during pregnancy, however bleeding is not necessarily a sign of a miscarriage. According to WebMD, "Up to 25% of pregnant women experience spotting to heavier vaginal bleeding. Of these women, about 50% do not miscarry" Bleeding in the first few weeks of pregnancy can be due to implantation bleeding, which is a natural byproduct for some women of the fertilization process. Some bleeding is also common after engaging in sexual intercourse during pregnancy. Any bleeding should be immediately reported to your doctor or midwife, but unless the bleeding is severe and accompanied by pain, there is usually not cause for immediate concern.
"I don't have morning sickness. Does that mean that there is something wrong?" - Every woman experiences pregnancy symptoms differently and there is no such thing as a "normal" degree of morning sickness. Many women report feeling some degree of nausea during the first trimester of pregnancy due to the increased hormone levels and some have more severe symptoms including vomiting. There is no indication that a lack of morning sickness is a sign that the pregnancy is not progressing normally. If you do not suffer from this particular symptom you should simply consider yourself lucky.
"My doctor says that they do not need to see me until after the first trimester. Is this normal?" - Many doctors feel that there is not much to be done during the first trimester and make the first appointment for the beginning of the second trimester and simply tell the pregnant woman to call if they have concerns. Many of the traditional aspects of prenatal exams, such as measuring the uterus and tracking weight gain and fetal movement are simply not an issue during the first trimester. There are some doctors however, who feel that it is important to do early ultrasounds to check the accuracy of due dates and follow the growth of the baby from the very beginning. After doing an informal poll on several pregnancy message boards, I believe that it is equally common to have your first appointment scheduled around 6-8 weeks of pregnancy as it is to have the first appointment scheduled around 12-14 weeks of pregnancy. Both approaches are considered perfectly acceptable for prenatal care and there is no reason to believe that seeing your doctor sooner will be better for your pregnancy. If you want to see a doctor sooner you can always call your doctor's office and tell them of your concerns and see if they can fit you in. If you do not feel that your doctor or midwife is giving you the best possible care, remember that you have the right to change providers at any point during your pregnancy. It is very important that you trust your doctor or midwife absolutely during such an important time.
I hope that these questions and answers help to alleviate common concerns during your first trimester of pregnancy. This is a very exciting time in a woman's life, but it can be a very nerve wracking time as well. You want everything to be perfect, but with a first pregnancy it is hard to know what to expect. The important thing to remember is that these concerns are perfectly normal and justified. Talking with other women going through pregnancy or recently having given birth may help you to feel more comfortable with the changes in your body at this time. If you ever have a question that you need answered immediately, remember that most doctor's offices have nurses available to answer questions at all times. Do not feel shy about calling them. That is what the doctor's office is there for!
Source: http://www.webmd.com/baby/tc/miscarriage-symptoms

What You Should Know: First Trimester of Pregnancy (0-13 weeks)

What You Should Know: First Trimester of Pregnancy (0-13 weeks)n pregnancy. For more information about pregnancy and birth options, see my other articles including my series on homebirth.

The First Trimester
The first trimester is unique, in that you aren't pregnant for 2 weeks of it and may not feel symptoms for up to 6 weeks. This can be a blessing for some women, who have a difficult time dealing with the symptoms associated with early pregnancy. This article will outline the symptoms of the first trimester with a brief explanation of what's going on with your baby.
Emotional Changes
You may feel premenstrual, overly emotional, or out of sorts. Exhaustion, morning sickness, and a lack of really feel pregnant can lead to bouts of crankiness. This is completely normal and as you adjust to the changes in pregnancy (including the hormonal changes that your body is trying to get used to) you can learn to cope effectively with the emotional aspects of pregnancy. You may also find that you get upset easily, not just angry but upset or sad. These feelings are totally normal as your body sets the foundation for the changes you will experience in the next 9 months. I'd recommend extra rest (not getting enough sleep can exacerbate the emotional and other symptoms of pregnancy) and support from your child's father and/or family, though you may not want to tell your family until you're through the first trimester due to risk of pregnancy loss.
Physical Changes
You won't be showing yet, but there are many symptoms that occur in early pregnancy.
Breast changes: your breasts may grow at this stage, and they may be sensitive or tender.
Morning sickness: more appropriately named 'all day sickness', morning sickness can be anywhere from slight to particularly troubling. If you find that you can't keep anything down most of the day, this is not uncommon. Try to keep something in your stomach and stick with foods that you crave or that you know won't trigger nausea. Some women swear by Sea-Bands, which are worn on the wrists and can help curb nausea.
Frequent urination: get used to seeing the bathroom, you're going to be spending a lot of time in it, particularly in the first and third trimesters.
Acne: hormonal changes in pregnancy tend to lead to break outs. Some women only break out around the time that they would have had their periods, but other women find themselves struggling with acne throughout their entire pregnancy. Be careful using acne treatments, as some are dangerous to a developing embryo.
Fatigue: do I even need to mention this? You may have fallen asleep by now...
It is so important that you get your rest during the early part of pregnancy, so don't skimp on sleep because you think you'll be fine. Not only can it cause all of your other symptoms to get worse, but not getting enough rest can make your days extremely difficult. The sleep is important to your developing embryo, so don't feel guilty getting a couple of extra hours. If you can find a chance, naps in the afternoon can also be extremely helpful. The fatigue will get better most likely, around the 4th month.
Dizziness: The hormonal changes combined with increased blood flow can lead to dizziness early in pregnancy. There isn't much you can do besides making sure that you don't get too hot or wear constrictive clothing. Nausea can also make dizziness worse. Keep something in your stomach to curb both the nausea and dizziness associated with low blood sugar levels, and try not to stand for long periods of time if dizziness is an issue.
Bloating: Though you're not showing yet, you may experience some bloating that can make your pants feel snug. I wish I could say this symptom goes away, but it doesn't until after delivery.
Gas: You may find yourself burping more or passing gas as your body gets used to the increased digestion required to keep 2 people fed. This can make the bloating more pronounced.
Food Aversions/Cravings: You can start to get cravings or food aversions even early in pregnancy. I'd recommend eating what your body craves, in moderation, and staying away from things that you know will trigger nausea.
Headaches: increased blood flow as well as hormonal changes and exhaustion can lead to headaches. If you're prone to migraines, this can make things more difficult, particularly since some migraine medications aren't safe for pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before taking anything stronger than Tylenol.
What about sex?
Many women in the first trimester find that their sex drive is much lower, though some find it's much higher. Nausea, fatigue, and body aches can make sex seem less appealing, though many women report that they find it easier to orgasm throughout their pregnancy.
Sex during pregnancy won't hurt your baby unless your doctor or midwife tells you otherwise, so you don't need to be concerned from that aspect. On the plus side, you don't have to worry about getting pregnant!
Your Uterus
During the first trimester, your uterus does grow somewhat, but the baby is very small so it won't grow that much. By the end of the first trimester, your uterus is about the size of a grapefruit (starting from about the size of your fist) and is just peeking up over your pelvic bones.
What is your baby doing?
This is a time of big changes for your baby, who is going from zygote to fully formed by the end of the first trimester. Though your baby won't be growing much or putting on weight, don't let that fool you. All organ systems and bone structures are formed by the end of the first trimester, and the heart begins to beat several weeks before you enter the second trimester. Your baby is building its brain and spinal cord early on, so make sure to get your folic acid to lower your risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida. After that, your baby starts working on the heart and other vital organs, while on the outside you would start to see the facial structure develop and then fingers and toes (if you could see your baby, of course). Initially, they have webbed fingers and toes, but this goes away long before your baby is born, so you'll never get to see it except perhaps via ultrasound. Some women aren't aware that the developing embryo has a tail until several weeks into the first trimester. As the body lengthens and develops, it takes up more of the spinal cord which was developing first, and the tail disappears.
Embryos develop from the top down, as a general rule. The most important things come first!
During this time, the placenta is also forming, and doesn't completely form until around the 4th month, which is part of the reason that first trimester mothers are so tired. Their body is doing the work for two.
Good luck and congratulations on your pregnancy! Don't forget to see what comes next in my next article about the second trimester. I'd also love to hear what you think about my articles, so don't be afraid to comment!

New Study Says Routine Mammograms Are Risky for Women in Their 40's

A study of mammography research by the American College of Physicians, which represents 120,000 internists, is sure to spark debate among the medical community. The group will issue new guidelines today which challenges the widely accepted recommendation that women in their 40's get routine mammogram testing. The new guidelines will suggest that women in their 40's consult with their doctors about whether to get the breast x-rays, claiming that the risks may outweigh the benefits. According to the comprehensive review of mammography research, it is less clear that there is benefit for women in their 40's than those who are 50 years of age or older. According to the internists, mammography screening carries significant risks associated with being x-rayed, having unnecessary biopsies, surgery and chemotherapy in some cases. The new guidelines will be published in the "Annals of Internal Medicine." According to Douglas Owens of Stanford University and head of the committee who wrote the guidelines, "We agree that mammography can save lives, but there are also potential harms. We don't think the evidence supports a blanket recommendation." This dramatically conflicts with recommendations of the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute. There is already disagreement on the new guidelines. Russell Harris of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, thinks "...it's right on target. I would like to see more women stop and think about the decision." The task force issues the federal government's official recommendations on preventative medicine. Just one week ago, the American Cancer Society issued new recommendations that women who have the greatest risk for breast cancer undergo annual MRI exams. Cancer societies believe these new guidelines will cause some women to stop getting screening exams in their 40's.
Robert Smith, director of cancer screening at the American Cancer Society reports that "Mammography is the single most effective way of finding breast cancer early, and when we find breast cancer early, women have the greatest chance of successful treatment." They credit the exams for reducing the death rate of women from breast cancer. Over 210,000 women each year battle breast cancer, and 40,000 women die from the disease. Breast cancer is second to skin cancer as the leading cancer in women. It is the second leading fatal cancer behind lung cancer. Breast cancer tends to be more deadly for women in their 40's.
Still, Owens says, "All we are saying is that women should be informed about the risks and benefits so they can make a decision based on all the facts." Researchers have noted before, that the benefit for women in their 40s is marginal and thousands of women have been overdiagnosed or overtreated. Owens agreed that this may confuse women, but women must be presented with a realistic assessment.

No Routine Mammograms for 40ish Women Sparks Rationing Debate

The word rationing, which connotes egg coupons and bread lines, is increasingly being applied to health care these days, with screening tests that do not show sufficient health benefits coming under fire by scientists who draw conclusions based on impartial clinical data. Mammograms are the latest screening test to be targeted by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which issued new guidance to women in their 40s yesterday that routine mammograms may not be necessary and that women should discuss the benefits and risks of having a mammogram with their personal physicians.
The conclusion by USPSTF evoked immediate controversy among groups ranging from the American Cancer Society to young breast cancer survivors, who spoke critically of the task force's recommendation against routine biennial screening mammography for women in their 40s.
The USPSTF was formed by the U.S. Public Health Service in 1984 to objectively review and assess scientific evidence for various preventive medical services, including health screenings such as mammograms. According to its official website, the task force's recommendations are viewed as "the 'gold standard' for clinical preventive services."
While there has been a big uproar against the USPSTF panel's guidance against routine mammogram screening for women 40-49, the same task force has issued similar guidance for prostate screening for men over 75. The task force also found insufficient evidence for hospitals to routinely screen all babies for hyperbilirubinemia, a condition associated with jaundice, that can lead to a chronic condition called bilirubin encephalopathy.
Media doctors such as Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN and Dr. Dean Edell of KGO Radio both expressed non-alarmist views on the USPSTF guidance against routine mammograms for women in their 40s, suggesting that in the short term women would probably continue to get mammograms with their doctors' encouragement. However, both Gupta and Edell acknowledged that insurance companies could potentially stop covering these screenings for women under 50 who are not in a high-risk group (e.g., their mother had breast cancer), just as most insurance companies do not typically cover mammograms for women in their 30s who are not at high risk.
The concept of health care rationing is a controversial element of Pres. Barack Obama's health care reform initiative because health care savings cannot be achieved if screening tests are routinely administered that save only a few lives out of a million. While those few lives are very important, health care dollars are limited, and it is not necessarily humane to save a few lives at the expense of the millions of people who cannot afford any health insurance at all.
Reactions to the panel's controversial shift on routine mammogram recommendations for women under 50 are already flooding the blogosphere. A woman named Cathy, responding to a blog post on healthfreedomalliance.org, wrote: "Does the government think we are so stupid we can not see what they are doing? Next they will say we need physicals every ten years, no screening for high blood pressure or heart disease, etc. This is what happens when the government takes over our health care, and the sad thing is this will give private health insurances a legal basis to deny procedures. Americans will die for Obama's "successful" health plan!"
The panel's new guidance on routine mammograms for women in their 40s may hinder passage of a federal health care reform bill because without monetary savings accrued by eliminating tests and procedures with limited health benefits, health insurance for all Americans could ultimately have too high a price tag.
Sources:
http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/pocketgd09/gcp09s2.htm#BreastScreening

The Most Important Health Screening Tests for Women

The internist scanned the chart, then frowned. "You don't have osteoporosis yet," he said. "But you definitely have osteopenia."
It was an unwelcome surprise but one that resulted in quick, corrective action.
Each month, articles appear refuting the importance of various screening tests for women. Often, they report of changes in standard guidelines or question the value of a specific test for a particular group of individuals. At those times, it's confusing to be a woman.
Here are some essential health screening tests for women. The frequency with which they should be performed sometimes varies according to the individual's health history.
Osteoporosis
It claims first place in the MedicineNet list of diseases to prevent in women. Osteoporosis involves the progressive loss of bone density, which can result in fractures. Osteopenia is a precursor to it.
The standard screening test for osteoporosis is a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan to measure bone density. It can detect problems before a patient suffers any bone fractures, can predict the risk of future fractures and, in some cases, monitors the effects of various treatments for osteoporosis.
Guidelines from the National Osteoporosis Foundation suggest that all women who are post-menopausal but younger than 65 and at elevated risk for the disease or conditions associated with it should consider being tested. So should all women who are at least 65.
Breast Cancer
It heads the list of the most common cancers among women in the United States. Around 1 out of every 9 females who live to age 65 will develop the disease. For many of them, it strikes after that age.
There are three types of breast cancer screening. The validity of the first, self-examination, has been debated in the last few years. The second is a breast exam by a doctor. Mammography is the third.
The standard advice is that all women over 20 should perform self-exams monthly. The ideal time coincides with the monthly menstrual cycle.
Women older than 40 should have a breast exam performed by a physician at least annually. By this age, each should also have a baseline mammogram. The American Cancer Society has for years recommended that women 40 and older should have a mammogram each year if they remain in good health. A recent controversial recommendation in the news is every two years.
Some doctors believe that women with "lumpy" breasts or high risk factors for this type of cancer should have a baseline mammogram at age 35.
High Blood Pressure
It's also known as hypertension. About one out of every six Americans suffers from high blood pressure. It can result in heart attacks, congestive heart failure, strokes and kidney failure.
A physician should determine how often to conduct high blood pressure screenings on a patient whose numbers are elevated. The frequency is linked to severity of the numbers and the presence of other risk factors for heart attacks and stroke. High-normal is 130-139/85-89. Stage 1 hypertension 140-159/90-99, while stages 2 and 3 are readings of more than 160/more than 100.
Medical personnel perform the test by inflating a cuff around the patient's arm.
Cancer of the Cervix
It's third on the list of the most common gynecological cancers. The human papilloma virus (HPV) is the cause. This type of cancer usually develops over a long period of time.
Cervical cancer screening involves a Pap test in a doctor's office. The doctor sends a sample of cells on a slide to a laboratory for analysis. Women should start having yearly Pap tests as part of their yearly pelvic exam at age 18.
After two normal Pap tests, MedicineNet says that women who are in bilateral monogamous relationships may have Pap tests every two to three years.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
HIV causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Screening the blood for HIV antibodies requires an ELISA test. To confirm antibodies for AIDS, doctors order a Western blot test.
Physicians recommend that pregnant women, individuals with occupational exposure to the virus and those with a sexually transmitted infection or high-risk sexual behavior be tested.
Others
WebMD adds to this list colonoscopies to check for colorectal cancer and annual skin cancer screenings. The site stresses the need for heart disease screening using tests to check blood flow to the heart, cholesterol levels and signs of diabetes.
Sources:
MedicineNet site
WebMD site

Essential Health Screening Tests for Women

As women, we all know that there certain health screening tests will become a part of our lives once we reach adulthood. Most of us dread a few of them, but all of then are necessary to assure that we maintain our health, and to pick up any problems as early as possible. Here is a look at the essential health screening tests that a women needs to make certain that she attends to at the intervals that are recommended by their health care practitioner. Pap Smear-- A Pap Smear is a test that screens for cervical cancer. The test was developed in the 1950's, and has allowed health care providers to have a means to detect this cancer in its early stages. A Pap Smear is done by having the vagina opened with a speculum, at which point a swab is introduced into the vagina, and the cervix is lightly scraped to gather cervical cells that will be analyzed under a microscope to look for any abnormal cells.
Most women should begin having Pap smears at age 21, unless you are sexually active and then your doctor many want you to begin having the test at an earlier age. There is a current debate about how often a Pap smear needs to be done, but most commonly it is performed once ever year to two years, unless there are any abnormalities. Most health care providers work very hard to make this test as comfortable as possible. Relaxing during the test helps a lot.
Mammogram--I had to begin having mammograms a few years ago, and while I wasn't scared, I wasn't excited, either. I had heard a lot of women talk about how uncomfortable a mammogram is--having your breast squeezed "flatter than a pancake." I did not find this test to be bad at all, and I have implants so the procedure is a bit more involved and difficult, as they have to find your actual breast tissue and pull it out far enough away from the implant to get a good image. I know, it sounds painful as heck, but it really wasn't.
A mammogram is a test that uses an x-ray to visualize the breast tissue from several angles, allowing the radiologist to look for tumors in the breast, even very tiny ones. This test is essential in detecting breast cancer as early as possible. In combination with monthly self breast exams, this test has saved many lives.
Again, as with the Pap smear, there is currently a lot of debate about the age at which mammograms should begin, and the frequency at which a woman should have the test. If you have no history of breast cancer in your family, most doctors recommend starting mammograms at at 50, and they are repeated yearly, or every other year.
Colonoscopy--I do not know anyone, man or woman, who looks forward to becoming 50, and having their first colonoscopy. In fact, I need to make my appointment--sigh. A colonoscopy is a test to screen for colon cancer. it is done by inserting a small scope the colon, through the anus. Thankfully, they drug you up pretty well, so that you shouldn't feel or remember a thing. The scope allows the physician to look at the colon, all the way up into the lower intestine. People who have colon cancer found early increase their chance of survival past 5 year to 90%. A colonoscopy need only be done every 10 years following the first one. That's good new, right?
Bone Density Test--Starting at age 60, women need to begin having bone density tests to determine if they are suffering from osteoporosis. This is one test that doesn't hurt a bit, and is quickly and easily done. The most accurate method of doing a bone density test require you to lie down on a platform while an arm like x-ray scanning machine passes over your body. It generally takes about 10 minutes. Since osteoporosis is a disease that causes bone loss after a women is in menopause, it is important to detect as thinning bones can mean bones that become brittle, and break easily.
All Of The Other Stuff--Hopefully, you are having annual physicals, at which your care provider will do a breast exam, and your blood pressure will be checked to see if you have hypertension, which is a dangerous condition with no symptoms. Your doctor will also weigh you to check to see if your BMI is within a normal range. If it is not, a weight loss plan will be recommended. Blood work will also be taken to check blood lipid levels to see if your cholesterol is too high. If it is, your doctor will help you with measures to lower it. Your thyroid hormone levels may also be checked, as will your red blood cell count to look for anemia.
Many women put off these screening test because they are busy with family and work, or they are afraid of the results. Some women have no health insurance, and they find the tests cost prohibitive. In many states there are free, or low cost, Pap smear and mammogram screenings. Whatever the cost, all of these test save lives, and every effort should be made to have them done as recommended. You'll be no good to that family you are caring for if you are sick, or no longer there to care of them.

Where to Get Sports Physicals in the Tampa Bay, Florida Area

Another school year is beginning once again in the Tampa Bay area here in Florida. It's time for some kids to get prepared for a sports physical if they want to participate in either individual or team athletics at their school. This is a necessary requirement for anyone who wants to participate in competitive sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, and football to get a comprehensive physical exam. During the sports physical visit to a clinic, doctor's office, or health department the attending physician will make sure you're good enough to play in the sport you want. This brings back memories of the time I was required to get an annual exam during each school year when I was in high school participating in a dance corp. It's not in the traditional competitive sports category, but a requirement for cheerleaders, majorettes, and dance squad, in which I belonged. Many people don't realize this group also requires a sports physical too. The sports physical itself will check your medical history as well as do a physical exam, such as take your blood pressure, check your eyesight, listen to your heart and lungs, and a few other areas of the body.