ChildbirthFresno, CA
Couples looking to have children are usually chock full of questions. There is plenty to consider, question and analyze when it comes to childbirth. Those who desire children typically wonder about the details of the birthing process, a potential C-section, why infertility occurs and so on. Here is everything you need to know about childbirth.
BECOMING PREGNANT
If you are trying to become pregnant, you are likely curious about techniques and methods that can speed up the process. The best way to heighten the odds of becoming pregnant is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Self-care is essential to becoming pregnant. It is imperative that you are in tip-top shape before you are impregnated. It is prudent to visit with your ob-gyn to discuss your health and potential lifestyle alterations that can facilitate a pregnancy. If your family has a history of infertility or if you have unsuccessfully tried to become pregnant, an infertility doctor can help. Discuss the matter with this professional and he or she will provide valuable insight that will help you finally have the baby you have long coveted.
It is also important to meet with your dentist before attempting to become pregnant. In most cases, gum disease occurs in premature and underweight infants. Furthermore, pregnancy is awfully tough on the gums and the teeth. Your oral hygiene should be in excellent shape before you try to become pregnant.
Exercising before pregnancy will help your body prepare for the challenge of carrying a baby. However, you should not push your body to the limit prior to or after becoming pregnant. Extreme exercise has the potential to alter your menstrual cycle and possibly even lead to infertility. When in doubt, opt for walks to get your heart rate up.
It will also help to take prenatal vitamins. These vitamins contain nutrients along with folic acid. Several studies have shown such vitamins are vitally important for the baby throughout each stage of development. These vitamins facilitate ovulation, promote fertilization and support the survival of the early embryo. Your ob-gyn will prescribe the best prenatal vitamin or provide recommendations for the best over-the-counter options.
AVOID SMOKING, ALCOHOL AND NICOTINE
Smoking has the potential to reduce your chances of becoming pregnant. Smoking is tied to a heightened risk for ectopic pregnancies as well as miscarriages. This is likely due to the fact that smokers have especially low levels of estrogen that decrease the probability of ovulation during menstrual cycles. Furthermore, smoking also has the potential to reduce the quality of a man’s sperm.
In regard to caffeine, you do not have to go cold turkey on coffee. However, you should limit your consumption to a couple eight-ounce cups of joe per day. An excess of caffeine can cause numerous fertility issues. It is also important to note alcohol is unsafe for pregnant women. Though a small amount of wine or another alcoholic drink won’t affect your fertility, it is advisable to forego alcohol when trying to conceive and after becoming pregnant.
THE BIRTHING PROCESS
Once you become pregnant, your attention will shift to the birthing process. The labor and birth process consists of three stages. The beginning stage occurs with contractions that cause alterations in the cervix. The cervix thins out and subsequently dilates during early labor. Active labor involves a more rapid dilation of the cervix. Contractions lengthen and become stronger as well as shorter in frequency.
The next stage of labor commences during full dilation. This stage ends with the birth of the baby. The third stage starts after the baby is born and culminates with the placenta’s delivery. The length of labor hinges on the nuances of your pregnancy. First-time moms tend to spend 10-20 hours in labor. However, labor has the potential to last a significantly longer or shorter period of time.
A Word About C-sections
You are likely wondering whether you will have a natural vaginal birth or if a C-section will be necessary. C-section is short for cesarean section and is the delivery of an infant by way of a surgical incision in the abdomen and uterus. In certain instances, we will schedule this procedure ahead of time. However, the surgery is often necessary as a result of an unforeseen complication that occurs in the delivery room.
If your baby or you are in danger, an emergency C-section will be necessary. Doctors sometimes recommend a C-section as opposed to a traditional vaginal delivery if there is more than one baby in the womb if the mother-to-be has had a previous C-section with a classical vertical uterine incision or another type of invasive uterine surgery like a myomectomy. Other reasons for a planned C-section include an especially large baby, a baby with an abnormality that would complicate a vaginal birth, a baby in the transverse position or the presence of a low-lying placenta (placenta previa).
If you would like to learn more about childbirth and the various treatments we provide, call (559) 424-1180 to schedule a consultation.
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