Even before the tests, your body will let you know that you’re pregnant. Here are the top signs to look out for :
- Tender breasts that seem to be growing
- Slight bleeding or cramping as the embryo implants in the uterus.
- Nausea or vomiting
- You feel extremely tired
- You seem to sleep all the time
- You visit the loo very frequently
Congratulations!
Once you’ve confirmed that you are indeed pregnant, you need to get very conscious about your personal hygiene. Follow this advice right from day one.
- Use light coloured cotton undergarments. Make sure they are handwashed and dried in the sun. Replace them every three months.
- If you have lower abdominal pain or spotting, avoid sex for the first three months.
- Do not shave the hair in private parts, always trim them with scissors.
- Stay away from public toilets as far as possible. If the necessity arises,make sure you only use your own tissues.
- Carry a bottle of boiled water from home wherever you go.
And while everyone will tell you to get as much rest as you can, it’s important that you exercise. Set aside around 30-45 minutes to walk every day and you’ll be in much better shape throughout your pregnancy.
Here are a few routine tests you’ll be asked to take:
- Basic blood and urine investigations
- Dating scan at around 6-8 weeks to confirm the due date, to rule outmultiple pregnancy and etcopic pregnancy
- Test to rule out HIV, HbsAg, VDRL