Pregnancy

PregnancyPregnancy is divided into three trimesters (three month periods). This division is significant, as a pregnant woman experiences different symptoms within each trimester. By the time the pregnancy reaches the end of the 4th week, the embryo is firmly embedded in the lining of the uterine cavity. Important changes are taking place in the woman’s body at this early stage, although she may not be aware of the pregnancy, until she misses her first period. Common symptoms during pregnancy include morning sickness, fatigue, frequency of urination and tender and enlarged breasts.

At 12 weeks, the rapidly growing embryo graduates to the status of a foetus. By the 2nd trimester, all limbs are properly formed and the joints are moving vigorously. Most pregnant women will become aware of their baby’s movements for the 1st time, between 16 and 20 weeks.

Within the 3rd trimester the foetus is now perfectly formed and the head is in proportion to the body. The expectant mother may experience a lot of the mechanical problems associated with pregnancy, such as; lower back pain, ankle swelling and stretch marks.

After 36 weeks, in over 50% of pregnancies, the head descends into the pelvis at this stage, in preparation for the birth. Forty weeks usually marks the end of a normal pregnancy.

Links and Resources

  • IrishHealth.com
    A list of questions and answers related to pregnancy. What are the risks? Safe to travel? Should you be taking iron supplements? Does travelling harm your baby?... more »
  • VHI
    Includes a Pregnancy Checklist. Find out about home birth options, check VHI entitlements, plan for maternity leave, book antenatal classes... more »
  • Rollercoaster.ie
    Contains information on all stages of pregnancy. Diet before and in pregnancy, maternity fashion, packing for hospital, stages of labour, leave entitlement, due-date calculator...more »
  • ICTU
    A pregnant woman is fully protected from discrimination or harassment in the workplace under Irish employment legislation. You will find details of your current legal entitlements in our Rights Section... more »
  • Accord.ie
    Avoiding pregnancy, ACCORD practitioners use modern methods of NFP which do not rely on 'Rhythm' or 'Calendar Calculations,' but are based on a scientific and accurate... more »

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