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Tag: Vitamin E

The Fourth Month of Pregnancy

4 months pregnancy

Physical Changes

  1. Moles and freckles may become darker with the increase in skin pigmentation. There is pigmentation around the nipples
  2. A dark line may appear down the centre of the stomach
  3. An increased appetite results in clothes getting tight
  4. The waistline starts to expand
  5. The baby bump begins to show as a gentle rounding of the stomach
  6. The breasts may still be of normal size but they will grow in the coming weeks.

Features of the Baby

  • Length: 6 inches
  • Weight :  135 gms
  • This is a period of rapid growth for the baby.
  • Fine hair appears on the body and face
  • The skin is transparent showing the blood vessels underneath
  • Joints have formed and hard bones are developing
  • Sex organs are mature enough to disclose the sex
  • Baby sucks the thumb
  • Baby’s heart beats twice as fast as the mother
  • Baby moves around vigorously though the mother still cannot feel it
  • The baby has a neck of its own
  • The baby’s fingers have their own finger print pattern
  • The head is still large for the body.

Suggestions

  • Both the partners must give up smoking if not done already.
  • As the appetite is growing the mother needs to be more careful of what she is eating and avoid unhealthy food. It pays to be sensible and watch the weight.
  • It is a good idea to check with the doctor who may recommend iron supplements around this time. Iron supplements should be taken on a full stomach and preferably with a good source of vitamin c to increase their bioavailability.
  • Normally after the first trimester the folic acid supplements are stopped.
  • It is time to make a second visit to the antenatal clinic where there would be an ultrasound scan; a serum screening test and amniocentesis if there are any chances of the baby having any abnormality.

Question of the day

How can you be sure that the baby is normal?

The chance of the baby being abnormal is very slim as most abnormalities occur in the initial weeks and end in a miscarriage. By now the baby is fully formed and if the parents ensure a good lifestyle, which provides a safe environment for the baby, the risks can be reduced further.

To read more on Pregnancy, click on the link below,

Pregnancy

Looking Good During Pregnancy

pregnancy fitness

Now that you know you are pregnant, you are embarking on one of the happiest phase in a couple’s life. And yet it is also a physiological burden on the mother’s body as the body goes through innumerable changes which manifest in poor skin and falling hair apart from a different shape of the body.

While taking care of the new life is imperative, taking care of yourself and looking good is equally important for a positive attitude and high self esteem.

  • Keep it simple: Comfortable clothes with clean cuts and smaller patterns look good during this time. Use solid colours and avoid over accessorizing. Invest in a good pair of maternity jeans.
  • Watch your posture: An incorrect and slouchy posture not just looks bad but also causes back strain. Walk straight consciously.
  • Invest in good comfortable shoes: There may be a slight increase in the shoe size too.
  • Exercise regularly: Keep your body healthy and prepare for childbirth but do consult your doctor regarding the best suitable exercises for you
  • Eat well: Eat a balanced diet and include a lot of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, beans and dairy. Avoid processed and packed food
  • Make water your best friend: It keeps your skin looking fresh and radiant and flushes toxins from your body
  • Stay happy and calm: Enjoy your hobbies, read books, listen to music and meditate as per your interest

Hair

If you are lucky, thick shiny hair could be a bonus of pregnancy, but sometimes greasy hair becomes oilier while dry hair gets even more brittle. There may be hair fall too while facial and body hair tends to darken.

  • If the hair is dry and brittle, use a mild shampoo and a good conditioner and stop yourself from rigorous brushing.
  • Wash oily hair often to keep it shiny
  • Avoid chemical treatments as far as possible
  • Transform your hairstyle as per your changing body by trying new hairstyles and fashionable accessories.

Skin Texture

Normally skin texture improves during pregnancy, however sometimes the skin becomes dry or greasy or even spotty.

  • Clean the skin thoroughly. Moisture it if it is too dry and add a few drops of oil in the bath. Use as little soap as possible.
  • Use subtle shades to give a natural glow and use a concealer to avoid dark circles. When using make up, please make sure the product is mercury and lead free.

Skin Color

Skin pigmentation is a common occurrence during pregnancy while moles and birthmarks darken and grow in size. A brown line appears on the stomach and a brownish patch could develop across the face and neck.

  • Avoid strong sunlight as that tends to make the pigmentation worse
  • Always use a sunscreen with a strong filter
  • Do not bleach your face
  •  Don’t stress or worry because most of these will disappear after pregnancy
  • Sleep and rest as much as possible

Nails

The nails may split and break more easily so wear gloves while doing household chores. A diet rich in vitamin E makes the nails strong so focus on a nutritious diet.

Stay happy, relaxed and calm and enjoy this beautiful period in your life.

To read more on Pregnancy, click on the link below,

Pregnancy