Pregnancy

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Introduction

Pregnancy is a special journey in a woman’s life, but it comes with many changes, challenges, and responsibilities. In Africa, pregnancy is often seen as a blessing, a sign of continuity and family growth. However, it is also a time when a woman’s body goes through major transformations that require proper care and attention. According to the world health organization (WHO), about 830 women die every day from pregnancy-related complications, with Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for nearly 70% of these deaths. Many of these deaths can be prevented with proper health education and care.

This article aims to simplify pregnancy-related information so that every African woman, regardless of education level, can understand and take better care of herself during this important time.

What is pregnancy?

Pregnancy happens when a man’s sperm meets and fertilizes a woman’s egg during ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). The fertilized egg moves into the uterus (womb), where it attaches and begins to grow. This process leads to the development of a baby.

For a healthy pregnancy, early diagnosis and regular check-ups (antenatal care) are important. This increases the chances of delivering a healthy baby and avoiding complications.

How common is pregnancy in Africa?

  • Africa has one of the highest birth rates in the world, with an average of 4.3 children per woman.
  • Many pregnancies in Africa are unplanned due to lack of access to family planning.
  • Teenage pregnancies are common in countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, often leading to health risks for both mother and baby.
  • High maternal deaths occur due to limited healthcare access, malnutrition, and infections.

Knowing these realities, it is important for women to prepare for pregnancy and get proper medical care.

Signs and symptoms of pregnancy?

Many women notice signs of pregnancy before taking a test. These signs happen because of hormonal changes in the body. Here are some early signs:

  • Missed period: This is the most common sign, but irregular periods can also cause delays.
  • Headaches: Hormonal changes can trigger headaches.
  • Light bleeding (spotting): This may occur about two weeks after fertilization.

As pregnancy progresses, other symptoms appear:

  • Mild weight gain
  • Nausea and vomiting: Often called morning sickness, but it can happen at any time.
  • Heartburn: A burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid moving up.
  • Constipation: Slow digestion can make bowel movements difficult.
  • Cramps: The stretching of the womb muscles can cause discomfort.
  • Back pain: Common as the baby grows.
  • Anaemia (low blood count): Can make a woman feel dizzy and weak.
  • Breast tenderness: Breasts may become swollen, heavier, and nipples may darken.

If you experience these symptoms and suspect pregnancy, confirm with a test.

How to confirm pregnancy?

Do not rely only on symptoms! Here are ways to confirm pregnancy:

  • Urine test: Available at pharmacies and hospitals.
  • Blood test: More accurate and done in health facilities.
  • Ultrasound scan: Shows the presence and position of the baby.

Once confirmed, register for antenatal care at the nearest clinic or hospital.

Stages of pregnancy?

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters:

First trimester (weeks 1–12)

  • The baby’s brain, spinal cord, and heart start developing.
  • The chance of miscarriage is highest in this period.
  • Symptoms like nausea, tiredness, and mood swings are common.

Second trimester (weeks 13–27)

  • Baby’s organs develop, and movement (kicking) begins – this is called quickening.
  • In some African cultures, feeling the baby move is a moment of joy and reassurance.
  • A scan at this stage checks for baby’s health and gender.
  • In Ghana, a baby is considered viable (able to survive outside the womb) at 28 weeks.

Third trimester (weeks 28–40)

  • The baby is almost fully developed.
  • Women feel more tired and may experience swelling in the feet.
  • Braxton-hicks contractions (false labor pains) may begin before real labor.
  • Labor can start anytime between 37 to 40 weeks.

How to prevent pregnancy (family planning)?

If a woman is not ready for a baby, she can use family planning methods, such as:

  • Condoms: Protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
  • Birth control pills: Taken daily to prevent pregnancy.
  • Injectables: Monthly or three-month injections to prevent pregnancy.
  • Implants: Small rods placed under the skin to prevent pregnancy for years.
  • Intrauterine device (IUD): A device placed in the womb for long-term prevention.
  • Natural methods: Tracking the menstrual cycle to avoid pregnancy.

Family planning helps women space their pregnancies for better health and economic stability.

Pregnancy vs premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Many women confuse pregnancy symptoms with PMS (a condition before menstruation). Similarities include:

  • Breast tenderness
  • Cramps
  • Mood swings
  • Fatigue

However, pregnancy is confirmed through a test. Early confirmation helps women get prenatal care, eat well, and avoid harmful habits like alcohol and smoking.