If you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant, you probably have a lot of questions. This article will help you learn how to be healthy (before, during, and after pregnancy) and give your baby a healthy start to life.

Pregnancy is the term used to describe when a woman has a growing fetus inside of her. In most cases, the fetus grows in the uterus. When a women becomes pregnant her body starts to produce a hormone called hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) This hormone give the positive result on both urine and blood based tests. Human pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, or just more than 9 months, from the start of the last menstrual period to childbirth.The feeling of carrying another living being in your womb is the most special time of a woman's life. It is a time of physical, mental and emotional transformation for the woman. Anxiety and uncertainty marks the great deal of excitement accompanying these changes. However, worries and having sleepless nights are uncalled for. The nine months of journey would be pleasant if one has a better knowledge and appreciation of these transformations.

During the first trimester, marked from conception to 12 or 14 weeks from the last normal menstrual cycle, a woman often experiences morning sickness (vomiting and nausea), tiredness, tender breast and frequent urination. Taking small frequent meals can be very helpful in preventing nausea. The mother-to-be may have alternate activity and rest periods. During this stage, walking is the most suitable physical activity.

Often considered as the "Golden Period" of pregnancy is the second trimester. During this stage, the physically demanding signs and symptoms of pregnancy have subsided. There are better sleep patterns, a paramount sign of advancement in the healthy pregnancy process. It is also during this time that the most joyful moment is experienced by the mother-to-be. The first heartbeat of the baby can be heard; moreover, an ultrasound usually done in around 19 weeks may make one feel the diverse movements of your bundle of joy. The ugly stretch marks, which is a cause for worries for women may become visible. Do not scratch the abdominal area to lessen the chances of pregnancy stretch marks.

The last of the pregnancy trimesters is the time when the fetus becomes too large to move in the uterus. The to-be moms may feel tired and experience shortness of breath due to the increased growth of the fetus. At the end of the third trimester, the fetus usually settles into a head-down position in the uterus. During this time, future parents should be well prepared for the birth of the baby.

Pregnancy also involves many changes in a woman's lifestyle. Avoid detrimental substances such as nicotine and alcohol. Cigarette smoke can lead to low birth weight in babies as well as miscarriages and tubal pregnancies. Alcohol and other toxic chemicals and substances such as paint fumes are damaging to the mother and to the baby.

During pregnancy, prenatal nutrition is very important. That is why dieting during this time is a big no-no. Hydration is also very important, about 6 to 8 glasses a day should be consumed. Essential nutrients and vitamins in the diet are vital to the development of both mother and child. Vitamins supplements are necessary as well as plenty of sleep and performing as much exercise as safely possible. During your pregnancy, regular activity such as walking, yoga, and swimming will help alleviate swelling, fatigue, and backache.

Giving birth will no doubt be one of the most magical moments of a woman's life and to ensure that your child is strong and happy, it is important you do all you can to have a healthy pregnancy.

Frequency of Urination

Running to the bathroom all the time? Early in pregnancy, the growing uterus presses on your bladder. This causes frequent urination.

See your doctor right away if you notice pain, burning, pus or blood in your urine. You might have a urinary tract infection that needs treatment.

Weight Gain

During the first trimester, it is normal to gain only a small amount of weight, about one pound per month.