Pregnancy is a beautiful journey for a woman, and it is essential to take care of oneself during this time. Many women are often curious to know if doctors add two weeks to pregnancy, and if so, why they do it. While it may seem confusing, adding two weeks to pregnancy is a common practice that doctors follow, and it is due to the way pregnancy is calculated.
When a woman falls pregnant, doctors calculate the gestational age of the foetus from the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period (LMP). Since it is tough to determine the exact day of conception, doctors take the first day of the woman’s LMP as the starting point. Therefore, the due date is usually calculated at 40 weeks from the first day of the LMP. This is where the two weeks come in; the first two weeks are technically counted as the woman’s menstrual cycle and not as pregnancy weeks.
While it may seem unusual, adding two weeks to pregnancy is a common practice and helps to ensure that the foetal growth and development are on track. It is also important to note that every pregnancy is unique, and the due date may be different for every woman. Therefore, it is essential to have regular check-ups with your doctor and follow their advice on how to take care of yourself during this time.
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for pregnant mothers:
Do’s:
– Eat a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
– Take prenatal vitamins as prescribed by your doctor to ensure you are getting all the necessary nutrients.
– Stay active with activities such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga.
– Get enough rest and sleep.
– Attend regular prenatal check-ups to monitor the foetal growth and development.
Don’ts:
– Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs.
– Do not consume caffeine in large amounts.
– Do not eat raw or undercooked meats, fish, or eggs.
– Avoid activities that pose a risk of injury, such as contact sports.
Eating the right foods during pregnancy is critical in providing your body with the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. Some of the best food and vegetables to consume during pregnancy include:
– Fruits such as berries, oranges, and bananas, which are high in vitamin C and folic acid.
– Vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli, which are high in iron and folate.
– Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, and quinoa, which provide fibre and energy.
– Lean proteins such as chicken, fish and eggs, which are rich in essential nutrients.
Aside from nutrition, lifestyle and habits also play a significant role in a healthy pregnancy. It is important to avoid excessive stress, get enough sleep, and maintain a positive attitude. Regular exercise can also help to promote a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension. Remember to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.
For couples struggling with infertility, there are various treatment options such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and surrogacy. These treatments can help couples conceive a child and fulfil their dream of starting a family. IVF involves fertilization outside of the uterus, while IUI and ICSI are done directly inside the uterus. Surrogacy involves a woman carrying a child for another couple who cannot conceive naturally.
In conclusion, doctors add two weeks to pregnancy due to how pregnancy is calculated from the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period, and it is a common practice. It is important to follow Dos and Don’ts during pregnancy and consume the right food and vegetables. Lifestyle and habits are also necessary for a healthy pregnancy. For couples struggling with infertility, various treatments are available, and the right choice will depend on the specific condition and circumstances. Remember to consult with your doctor regularly to ensure a healthy pregnancy.