Pregnancy, the wonderful journey of every woman’s life, brings immense joy and happiness into the lives of couples. However, for some women conceiving a child might not be as easy, and it brings in anxiety and concern. Pregnancy detection early on is essential to ensure proper prenatal care. That said, there are several ways to detect pregnancy, including the detection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in a woman’s urine or blood.
Can a doctor detect pregnancy early on?
Yes, doctors can detect pregnancy early through a urine test or blood test. Urine tests can detect hCG levels as early as two weeks after ovulation, while a blood test can detect hCG levels even earlier, as soon as six to eight days after ovulation. If a woman suspects pregnancy, visiting a gynaecologist early is the best way to detect and confirm pregnancy early on. A doctor can give a urine or blood test, and if the results are positive, one can trust that the pregnancy could be detected early.
Dos and Don’ts during early pregnancy
Let us take a look at some critical dos and don’ts that every woman should know during early pregnancy.
Dos:
– Take prenatal vitamins, including folic acid, to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
– Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and promote good circulation.
– Eat a healthy and balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
– Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
– Get enough sleep to avoid fatigue, mood swings, and other pregnancy-related issues.
Don’ts:
– Avoid alcohol, smoking and drug use to eliminate the risk of birth defects, miscarriage, and other pregnancy-related complications.
– Limit caffeine intake as it can increase the risk of miscarriage.
– Avoid certain types of fish that contain high mercury levels to prevent fetal brain damage.
– Avoid contact with harmful chemicals, including pesticides, cleaning products, and some hair dyes.
– Do not take any prescription medications without consulting your doctor.
Best Foods and Vegetables to Eat
Eating nutrient-rich foods is essential during pregnancy. Here are some food items that every pregnant woman should consider adding to their diet:
– Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are both great sources of folic acid, a critical nutrient for prenatal health.
– Berries: Berries, particularly strawberries, are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
– Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
– Salmon: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, helping to boost fetal brain development.
– Avocado: Avocado is a source of healthy fats and folate, essential for baby’s brain and spinal cord development.
Lifestyle and habits during early pregnancy
Here are some vital lifestyle and habit recommendations for women during early pregnancy:
– Manage Stress: Stress can cause depression and anxiety which can affect the child’s growth. Managing stress can reduce such risks.
– Stay hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of water, juices, or milk to stay hydrated during pregnancy.
– Wear comfortable clothes:As a woman’s body changes, wear loose and comfortable clothing that won’t restrict movement.
– Take rest: Sufficient rest and relaxation can help minimise mood swings and physical discomfort during pregnancy.
What is IVF, IUI, ICSI and Surrogacy?
If conceiving naturally is not a viable option, some couples opt for fertility treatments such as In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), and surrogacy. These are advanced medical procedures that aid in the conception and birth of healthy babies, and it’s imperative to seek proper medical advice before opting for such treatments.
IVF involves fertilising eggs with sperm outside the woman’s body in a laboratory, after which the fertilised egg is transferred to the uterus. IUI is a procedure that involves directly inserting sperm into a woman’s uterus. ICSI is a procedure in which a single sperm is directly injected into an egg. And, Surrogacy involves opting for a third person to carry the baby to full term.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is an incredible journey that requires care, attention, and proper medical treatment. While there are various approaches to detect pregnancy early, it is wise to consider all aspects before opting for any treatment. It is essential to incorporate healthy habits, a nutritious diet, and regular exercise to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Wishing all mothers-to-be a healthy and stable pregnancy experience, and a healthy baby!