Pregnancy

What is pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting time in a woman’s life, full of changes, cravings, and surprises! In Africa, pregnancy is seen as a blessing, but it also requires proper care. Sadly, many women face pregnancy-related health risks due to limited healthcare access.

How does pregnancy happen?

When a man’s sperm meets a woman’s egg during ovulation, the fertilized egg travels to the womb, where it grows into a baby. Regular check-ups (antenatal care) help ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Signs of pregnancy?

Before taking a test, you may notice:

  • Missed period
  • Nausea (morning sickness)
  • Breast tenderness
  • Headaches and dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Light spotting

Stages of pregnancy?

  • First trimester (1–12 weeks): Baby’s brain and heart start forming. Nausea and mood swings are common.
  • Second trimester (13–27 weeks): Baby moves (kicking starts), and the bump grows! A scan can check the baby’s health.
  • Third trimester (28–40 weeks): The baby is almost fully developed. False labor pains may start before real labor.

Preventing pregnancy (family planning)

  • Condoms, pills, injectables, implants, IUDs
  • Natural methods (tracking ovulation)

Pregnancy vs premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Both can cause mood swings, cramps, and breast tenderness. A pregnancy test confirms the difference!

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