Thursday, 15 February 2018

AMAZING BENEFITS OF COCONUT WATER FOR HAIR AND SKIN information

Let’s Go Coco-Nuts!

Coconut water has gained a sudden splurge of popularity thanks to its long list of health and beauty benefits. Its journey went from from being an exotic drink known just for thirst quenching and quick hydration to a popular health drink with a wide range of beauty benefits.
Coconut water is the clear juice found inside young green coconuts. Not to be confused with coconut milk: it is fat-free and low in calories.
Coconut water has been around for ages and is a natural source of essential minerals, vitamins and electrolytes like sodium and potassium.

Some interesting nutritional facts about coconut water:

  • This natural and light drink has sweet and slightly nutty taste.
  • A cup or 240g of coconut water contains approximately 40 calories
  • Unlike coconut milk, it contains no fat or cholesterol
  • A cup contains easily digestible, natural sugars and carbs
  • It is high in electrolytes like sodium and potassium
  • It also contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Protein, Iron and Calcium, making it a complete nutrient package for the body


    • Here Are 7 Beauty Benefits Of Drinking Coconut Water:


    1. ANTI-AGING

    Coconut water contains anti-microbial powerhouse called lauric acid that helps protect against skin infections. It also contains protein called cytokines that is responsible for encouraging cell growth and cell activation.
    They regulate signals in response to inflammation caused by acne and also have an anti-ageing effect on the skin. Both external and internal use can improve wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots.

    2. FIGHTS ACNE

    Coconut water is a natural way to get rid of those acne and blemishes. Topical application of coconut water all over the skin helps lighten blemishes and healing acne.
    Coconut water has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties that reduces the risk of acne causing microbial infection and helps in getting a clear and flawless skin.

    3. NATURAL CLEANSER & TONER

    It works as a hydrating cleanser for sensitive skin. Dab some cotton in coconut water and use it for removing makeup.
    Now take another cotton ball dipped in coconut water and gently move your hand in small circles all over your face.
    The natural toner reduces the appearance of pores and naturally moisturizes your skin. It also helps in regulating the pH of the skin and keeps it well hydrated without excess oil.

    4. PROTECTS AGAINST SUN DAMAGE

    The anti-oxidant properties of coconut water along with its high levels of Vitamin C helps in reducing sunburn. Gently apply coconut water directly on skin, let the skin soak it and work its magic for the next 20-30 minutes, rinse your face with cold water and feel the difference. This is the simplest sunburn removal pack without harmful chemicals that even removes patchiness.

    5. TAME FRIZZY HAIR

    Unruly and frizzy hair can get a healthy boost by massaging with coconut water. Coconut oil can be a little heavy, but coconut water is light and works as a hydration serum for dry unmanageable hair. It makes your hair smooth, shiny and stronger.

    6. REDUCES HAIR FALL

    Coconut water is rich in Vitamin K and Iron. Vitamin K is essential to promote healthy hair growth and stop hair fall.
    Similarly Iron carries the oxygen to the roots making them stronger and reducing hair fall. Just massage your hair with coconut water and leave it in for stronger hair.

    7. HELPS TREAT DANDRUFF & DRY SCALP

    Coconut water works as a deep moisturizer and hydrates dry scalp to effectively treat dandruff. It is anti-fungal in nature, helping you to get rid of dandruff.
    Lauric acid present in coconut water also helps in improving the hair strength and thus reduce hair loss.

    Coconut is being increasingly used in beauty and hair products and for a good reason. It is natural, risk-free and easy to find. So no need to buy expensive beauty products, rather try drinking and applying coconut water to treat beauty and hair problems.
    Coconut water is generally considered safe and has no serious known side effects. But if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medications for blood pressure, allergic to tree nuts or on a low sodium diet, talk you your healthcare professional first.


    We’re curious to find out what’s your experience with coconut water! Share your own beauty hacks & tell us some more about how to use them.
    She put the lime in the coconut, she called the doctor, woke him up
    And said, Doctor, ain’t there nothin’ I can take
    I say, doctor, to relieve this bellyache?’


    They are from a very popular 70s hit ‘Coconut’ by Harry Nilsson. Yes, he made a full 4 minutes 32-second peppy song talking about coconuts. And why not? The elixir from the tropics, coconut water, has been a favorite natural drink since time immemorial, sometimes being a life saver too (I’ll discuss that later).
    An alternative to aerated beverages and sports drinks, coconut water, is low in calories, and delicious to boot! But, did you know that your favorite drink has some surprising benefits to offer?
    Do I see your interests piquing? Good. Because I’ve got a lot to share.
    Come, hop on the wagon.

    Coconut Water- A Brief

    Scientific Name- Cocos nucifera
    Family- Arecaceae
    Origin- South East Asia
    Other Names- Nariyal Pani (Hindi), Kobbari Bondam Neeru (Telugu), Tenkay Tannir (Tamil), Karikkin Vellam (Malayalam), YeLeneeru (Kannada), and Narikelera Pani (Bengali)
    Before we begin with the never-ending tale of coconut water benefits, let’s take a quick look at the biological aspects of this fruit. Ready?
    Vasco da Gama gave the coconut its name. The inhabitants called it ‘Coco,’ named after a scowling face or hobgoblin (the scary coconut’s ‘eyes,’ remember?). When this ‘coco’ arrived in England, the suffix ‘nut’ was added making it a ‘coconut.’ Interesting, right?
    But, coconut is not a ‘nut’ as many of us presume. It is actually a stone fruit found on the palm trees that grow well in the coastal tropical environments. This tree usually yields several hundreds of tender fruits every season, depending upon the species and the area.
    Coconut ‘water’ is actually the juice present inside the endosperm (interior cavity) of the young (about 5-7 months old) and tender coconut. This clear liquid is sweet and sterile and contains various essential
    compounds such as vitamins, minerals, sugars, electrolytes, amino acids, phytohormones, and cytokine.
    Each tender coconut may contain around 200 to 1000 ml of water, depending on the size and species. Any fruit that is younger than five months of age will be bitter and without any nutrients. On the other hand, mature coconuts have less water because their endosperm is thick with a white edible kernel.
    Let’s quickly move on to the interesting part without wasting any more time, shall we?

    How Can Coconut Water Help You

    Health Benefits

    1. Promotes Cardiovascular Health
    2. Improves Lipid Metabolism
    3. Prevents Kidney Stones
    4. Aids Digestion
    5. Prevents And Treats Dehydration
    6. Helps With Muscle Cramps
    7. Strengthens Bones
    8. Reduces Bloating
    9. Aids Weight Loss
    10. Helps With Diabetes
    11. Lowers Blood Pressure
    12. Treats Diarrhea
    13. As An Electrolyte Replacement
    14. As A Detoxifier
    15. Beneficial After A Prolonged Workout Session
    16. Balances pH Levels
    17. Provides Instant Energy
    18. Cures Hangovers
    19. Relieves Headaches
    20. Treats Alzheimer’s
    21. Healthy Alternative To Caffeinated Drinks
    22. Has Antimicrobial Properties
    23. Boosts Immunity
    24. Has Anti-tumor Properties
    25. Eye Health
    26. Relieves Stress
    27. Cures Insomnia
    28. Boosts Memory
    29. Treats Gallstones
    30. Fights Depression
    31. Healthy Drink For Pregnant And Breastfeeding Moms
    32. Helps Battle Free Radical Damage
    33. Is Good For Babies
    34. Reverses Chemotherapy Damage
    35. Treats Constipation
    36. Cures Crohn’s Disease
    37. Alleviate Ulcerative Colitis
    38. Heals A Leaky Gut
    39. Reduces Fever
    40. Cures Cholera
    41. Cuts toxin activity in The Liver
    42. Beneficial For Postmenopausal Symptoms
    43. Cures Acid Reflux, GERD, And Gastritis
    44. Increases Libido
    45. Alleviate Glaucoma
    46. Treats Hypothyroidism

    Skin Benefits

    1. Moisturizes Skin
    2. Reduces Signs Of Aging
    3. Helps Reduce Pigmentation
    4. Treats Skin Infections
    5. Helps Reduce Acne
    6. Cures Eczema
    7. Works As A Natural Cleanser And Toner
    8. Heals Skin Infections
    9. Removes Sun Tan

    Hair Benefits

    1. Stimulates Hair Growth
    2. Adds Shine
    3. Controls Dandruff
    4. Treats Damaged Hair
    5. Prevents Hair Loss

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Health Benefits Of Coconut Water

    Did you know that coconut water was able to save many lives during the World War II?
    You might take this as a far-fetched idea, but there are more than one documented cases that prove coconut water’s importance as an emergency intravenous fluid during the 40s and 50s.
    The list has just begun. There are many health benefits of coconut water that you will be surprised to know, just like the one above. So, stay tuned.

    1. Promotes Cardiovascular Health

    For a healthy heart, you need to eat nutritious food and exercise regularly. And now, you can add drinking coconut water to the list.
    Studies have shown that coconut water can reduce the risk of heart attacks, lower blood pressure, and hypertension
     (1).
    Tender coconut water, preferably fresh, can be had once a day to improve cardiovascular health.
    Caution—Coconut water might be low in calories, but the yield from one coconut can contain about five grams of sugar. Therefore, drinking too much coconut water is not recommended.

    2. Improves Metabolism

    You probably know that improved metabolism means that you end up burning more calories. While there might be many things slugging your metabolism, coconut water isn’t one of them. In fact, it can give your metabolism quite the boost.
    One of the crucial things required for the proper metabolism of carbohydrates and fats into energy is manganese
     (2). This is why coconut water, a good source of manganese, helps improve metabolism

    3. Prevents Kidney Stones

    Prevention of kidney stones is one of the most effective health benefits of coconut water. Kidney stones can cause a lot of pain and may result in serious health issues. Drinking coconut water can help in preventing them.
    Kidney stones occur when there is an accumulation of crystals in your kidneys that should have been flushed out through urine. Research has shown that coconut water reduces the amount of crystals deposited in the kidneys, which significantly r

    4. Aids Digestion

    It is common knowledge that ingesting fibers is essential for your digestive system to function properly. Coconut water is rich in fiber, which is why it helps with your digestive system.
    The water a single coconut yield contains about 9% of the amount of fiber that is required by your body in a single day
    educes the occurrence of kidney stones.

    5. Prevents And Treats Dehydration

    Dehydration occurs when the water content in your body drops. It is usually a result of not drinking enough water or losing water through excretion. Coconut water keeps you hydrated, which is why a lot of athletes use it as a post-workout drink.
    When you are dehydrated, you don’t just lose water; you lose essential salts and nutrients as well. Coconut water, which has high water content and is rich in nutrients, helps replenish your body '

    . Helps With Muscle Cramps

    Muscle cramps can happen due to many reasons, and coconut water helps ease the discomfort.
    According to studies, potassium deficiency can result in muscle spasms. A diet rich in potassium ensures that your muscles stay in perfect order .
    Excessive exercising can also cause muscle cramps, which can be eased by the consumption of electrolytes. Coconut water, which replenishes lost water and potassium, can be a perfect substitute for any energy drink.

    7. Strengthens Bones

    Although our bones are made up mostly of calcium, we need some nutrients to maintain bone strength and density.
    There have been several studies about the impact of coconut water on bones. The results have been favorable . Coconut water contains a significant amount of calcium that is necessary for healthy bones. It also has magnesium that builds bone strength

    8. Reduces Bloating

    Bloating is usually gas-related. But it can also be caused due to high sodium intake, which coconut water can reduce.
    Coconut contains a high amount of potassium, which helps counteract the effects of sodium.

    9. Aids Weight Loss

    Weight loss is one of the most amazing benefits of drinking coconut water. Consuming empty calories is one the main reasons you tend to put on weight. Aerated drinks and other sugary drinks can make you pile on calories and leave you feeling hungry. If you are seeking an alternative, coconut water is an excellent substitute.
    Coconut water is a good source of dietary fiber . Fiber does not get digested by your body, so it stays in your system longer and keeps you feeling full. This is why you rarely feel hungry, and eat less.

    10. Helps With Diabetes

    Wondering if people with diabetes can have this sweet and delicious drink? Research says yes!
    Certain studies have concluded that the water from mature coconuts can have an anti diabetic effect . People with diabetes are very susceptible to excessive blood clotting, which puts them at risk. Not only does coconut water help reduce blood sugar, but it also prevents the occurrence of blood clots.
    Caution—With the intake of coconut water, diabetics should monitor their blood sugar for signs of hypoglycemia.

    11. Lowers Blood Pressure


    Coconut water has a direct effect on blood pressure. Studies have shown that it can help in lowering blood pressure and hypertension. It also reduces cholesterol and prevents blood clots.
    Coconut water exhibits anti thrombotic effects, which means it helps prevent blood clots. It also reduces cholesterol, which can have an enormous impact on your blood pressure by clogging up your arteries.

    12. Treats Diarrhea

    Coconut water is a must-have liquid for those suffering from diarrhea. It will prevent the need for hospitalization by replacing the fluid loss from the GI (Gastrointestinal) tract 
    Interestingly, this humble liquid has a higher osmolarity than that of the WHO recommended ORS solution due to the presence of essential chemical compounds such as amino acids, minerals, enzymes, and fatty acids. Being very low in sodium and chlorides, but high in sugars and amino acids also makes coconut water a well-balanced fluid replacement for diarrhea.

    13. As An Electrolyte Replacement

    Coconut water is also a workable short-term replacement for human blood plasma 100 ml of coconut water contains about 250 mg of potassium and 105 mg of sodium that help replenish electrolyte deficiency in the patient’s body.
    This is the sole reason why coconut water was popular during the World War II.

    14. As A Detoxifier

    We all know that detoxification is an important process for the proper functioning of our body. This process helps flush out harmful components from our organs, making us healthy from inside out.
    But did you know that dehydration is also a significant contributor to the build-up toxins in our body?
    Yes, it is, because inadequate hydration leads to hampered functioning of kidneys and livers, the detoxifying organs, thus giving way to the accumulation of toxins in the body.
    What can we do about it?
    The solution is all clear, my dear. Stay hydrated. And what can be a better hydration alternative than our precious coconut water?
    Our body is capable of cleansing and detoxing on its own, provided it has all the essential nutrients and hydration, and coconut water contains every required nutrient including potassium and sodium.

    15. Beneficial After A Prolonged Workout Session

    Replace your energy drinks with coconut to stay hydrated even after a long work-out session.
    Coconut water is rich in essential potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium which helps natural replenishment of lost electrolytes in the body. Also, they assist in maintaining proper fluid balance.

    16. Balances pH Levels

    Many toxins and chemical compounds present in the environment and foods make your body pH levels highly acidic which can eventually lead to joint pain, chemical sensitivity, heartburn, weight gain, diabetes, and immune deficiency.
    This is where coconut water comes into play.
    Coconut water has an amazing alkalizing effect which helps restore a healthy pH in the body. So, next time you face a disturbing acidity and heartburn, don’t think before sipping on this tasty drink.

    17. Provides Instant Energy


    Are you still relying on that bottled energy drink after a sunny day? Don’t. Because now you have a better reason to switch to coconut water instead.
    A glass of fresh coconut water contains about 5 mg of natural sugar that has better energy-boosting effects than that of energy drinks, at a much lower price . The same glass is also rich in about 294 mg of potassium, which is essential for energy production in the cells.

    18. Cures Hangovers

    Consume coconut water next time you go overboard with the alcohol.
    Having coconut water helps settle your stomach, reducing frequent urination and the urge to puke. It also helps provide the much-required hydration and nutrients that are lost courtesy alcohol.
    Also, the antioxidants present in this revitalizing drink fight oxidative stress that occurs due to too much alcohol in our system (
    Make your hangover drink by using coconut water, ripe mangoes, lemon juice and mint. Here’s how:
    What You Need
    • 2 cups fresh coconut water
    • 2 cups grated ripe mangoes
    • 2 fresh mint sprigs
    • 1/2 cup ice
    What You Need To Do
    Make a smoothie by blending all the ingredients and have it fresh to get rid of that annoying hangover.
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    Sunday, 11 February 2018

    Pregnancy information

    Pregnancy, also known as gestation, is the time during which one or more offspring develops inside a woman.[4] A multiple pregnancy involves more than one offspring, such as with twins.[12] Pregnancy can occur by sexual intercourse or assisted reproductive technology.[6] Childbirth typically occurs around 40 weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP).[4][5] This is just over nine months, where each month averages 29½ days.[4][5] When measured from conception it is about 38 weeks.[5] An embryo is the developing offspring during the first eight weeks following conception, after which, the term fetus is used until birth.[5] Symptoms of early pregnancy may include missed periods, tender breasts, nausea and vomiting, hunger, and frequent urination.[1] Pregnancy may be confirmed with a pregnancy test.[7]
    Pregnancy is typically divided into three trimesters.[4] The first trimester is from week one through 12 and includes conception.[4]Conception is when the sperm fertilizes the egg. The fertilized egg then travels down the fallopian tube and attaches to the inside of the uterus, where it begins to form the embryo and placenta.[4] The first trimester carries the highest risk of miscarriage(natural death of embryo or fetus).[2] The second trimester is from week 13 through 28.[4] Around the middle of the second trimester, movement of the fetus may be felt.[4] At 28 weeks, more than 90% of babies can survive outside of the uterus if provided with high-quality medical care.[4] The third trimester is from 29 weeks through 40 weeks.[4]
    Prenatal care improves pregnancy outcomes.[9] Prenatal care may include taking extra folic acid, avoiding drugs and alcohol, regular exercise, blood tests, and regular physical examinations.[9] Complications of pregnancy may include disorders of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, iron-deficiency anemia, and severe nausea and vomiting among others.[3] Term pregnancy is 37 to 41 weeks, with early term being 37 and 38 weeks, full term 39 and 40 weeks, and late term 41 weeks.[4] After 41 weeks, it is known as post term.[4] Babies born before 37 weeks are preterm and are at higher risk of health problems such as cerebral palsy.[4] Delivery before 39 weeks by labor induction or caesarean section is not recommended unless required for other medical reasons.[13]
    About 213 million pregnancies occurred in 2012, of which, 190 million were in the developing world and 23 million were in the developed world.[10] The number of pregnancies in women ages 15 to 44 is 133 per 1,000 women.[10] About 10% to 15% of recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage.[2] In 2013, complications of pregnancy resulted in 293,000 deaths, down from 377,000 deaths in 1990.[11] Common causes include maternal bleeding, complications of abortion, high blood pressure of pregnancy, maternal sepsis, and obstructed labor.[11] Globally, 40% of pregnancies are unplanned.[10] Half of unplanned pregnancies are aborted.[10] Among unintended pregnancies in the United States, 60% of the women used birth control to some extent during the month pregnancy occurred.
    A pregnant woman
    SpecialtyObstetrics, midwifery
    SymptomsMissed periods, tender breasts, nausea and vomiting, hunger, frequent urination[1]
    ComplicationsMiscarriage, high blood pressure of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, iron-deficiency anemia, severe nausea and vomiting[2][3]
    Duration~40 weeks from the last menstrual period[4][5]
    CausesSexual intercourse, assisted reproductive technology[6]
    Diagnostic methodPregnancy test[7]
    PreventionBirth control, abortion[8]
    TreatmentPrenatal care[9]
    MedicationFolic acid[9]
    Frequency213 million (2012)[10]
    Deaths293,000 (2013)[11]

    Terminology

    William Hunter, Anatomia uteri humani gravidi tabulis illustrata, 1774
    Associated terms for pregnancy are gravid and parous. Gravidus and gravid come from the Latin for "heavy" and a pregnant female is sometimes referred to as a gravida.[15] Gravidity is a term used to describe the number of times that a female has been pregnant. Similarly, the term parity is used for the number of times that a female carries a pregnancy to a viable stage.[16] Twins and other multiple births are counted as one pregnancy and birth. A woman who has never been pregnant is referred to as a nulligravida. A woman who is (or has been only) pregnant for the first time is referred to as a primigravida,[17] and a woman in subsequent pregnancies as a multigravida or as multiparous.[15][18] Therefore, during a second pregnancy a woman would be described as gravida 2, para 1 and upon live delivery as gravida 2, para 2. In-progress pregnancies, abortions, miscarriages and/ or stillbirths account for parity values being less than the gravida number. In the case of a multiple birth the gravida number and parity value are increased by one only. Women who have never carried a pregnancy achieving more than 20 weeks of gestation age are referred to as nulliparous.[19]
    The terms preterm and postterm have largely replaced earlier terms of premature and postmature. Preterm and postterm are defined above, whereas premature and postmature have historical meaning and relate more to the infant's size and state of development rather than to the stage of pregnancy.[20][21]

    Signs and symptoms

    Main article: Symptoms and discomforts of pregnancy
    Melasma pigment changes to the face due to pregnancy
    The symptoms and discomforts of pregnancy are those presentations and conditions that result from pregnancy but do not significantly interfere with activities of daily living or pose a threat to the health of the mother or baby. This is in contrast to pregnancy complications. Sometimes a symptom that is considered a discomfort can be considered a complication when it is more severe. For example, nausea (morning sickness) can be a discomfort, but if, in combination with significant vomiting it causes a water-electrolyte imbalance, it is a complication known as hyperemesis gravidarum.
    Common symptoms and discomforts of pregnancy include:
    In addition, pregnancy may result in pregnancy complication such as deep vein thrombosis or worsening of an intercurrent disease in pregnancy.

    Chronology

    The chronology of pregnancy is, unless otherwise specified, generally given as gestational age, where the starting point is the woman's last normal menstrual period (LMP), or the corresponding age of the gestation as estimated by a more accurate method if available. Sometimes, timing may also use the fertilization age which is the age of the embryo.

    Start of gestational age

    Main article: Gestational age
    According to American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the main methods to calculate gestational age are:[25]
    • Directly calculating the days since the beginning of the last menstrual period.
    • Early obstetric ultrasound, comparing the size of an embryo or fetus to that of a reference group of pregnancies of known gestational age (such as calculated from last menstrual periods), and using the mean gestational age of other embryos or fetuses of the same size. If the gestational age as calculated from an early ultrasound is contradictory to the one calculated directly from the last menstrual period, it is still the one from the early ultrasound that is used for the rest of the pregnancy.[25]
    • In case of in vitro fertilization, calculating days since oocyte retrieval or co-incubation and adding 14 days.[26]

    Estimation of due date

    Due date estimation basically follows two steps:
    • Determination of which time point is to be used as origin for gestational age, as described in section above.
    • Adding the estimated gestational age at childbirth to the above time point. Childbirth on average occurs at a gestational age of 280 days (40 weeks), which is therefore often used as a standard estimation for individual pregnancies.[28] However, alternative durations as well as more individualized methods have also been suggested.
    Naegele's rule is a standard way of calculating the due date for a pregnancy when assuming a gestational age of 280 days at childbirth. The rule estimates the expected date of delivery (EDD) by adding a year, subtracting three months, and adding seven days to the origin of gestational age. Alternatively there are mobile apps, which essentially always give consistent estimations compared to each other and correct for leap year, while pregnancy wheels made of paper can differ from each other by 7 days and generally do not correct for leap year.[29]
    Furthermore, actual childbirth has only a certain probability of occurring within the limits of the estimated due date. A study of singleton live births came to the result that childbirth has a standard deviation of 14 days when gestational age is estimated by first trimester ultrasound, and 16 days when estimated directly by last menstrual period.[27]

    Physiology

    Timeline of pregnancy by gestational age

    Initiation

    See also: Human fertilization
    Fertilization and implantation in humans
    Through an interplay of hormones that includes follicle stimulating hormone that stimulates folliculogenesis and oogenesis creates a mature egg cell, the female gamete. Fertilization is the event where the egg cell fuses with the male gamete, spermatozoon. After the point of fertilization, the fused product of the female and male gamete is referred to as a zygote or fertilized egg. The fusion of male and female gametes usually occurs following the act of sexual intercourse. Fertilization can also occur by assisted reproductive technology such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilisation.
    Fertilization (conception) is sometimes used as the initiation of pregnancy, with the derived age being termed fertilization age. Fertilization usually occurs about two weeks before the next expected menstrual period.
    A third point in time is also considered by some people to be the true beginning of a pregnancy: This is time of implantation, when the future fetus attaches to the lining of the uterus. This is about a week to ten days after fertilization.[30] In this model, during the time between conception and implantation, the future fetus exists, but the woman is not considered pregnant.

    Development of embryo and fetus

    Main articles: Prenatal development, Human embryogenesis, and Fetus
    The initial stages of human embryogenesis
    The sperm and the egg cell, which has been released from one of the female's two ovaries, unite in one of the two fallopian tubes. The fertilized egg, known as a zygote, then moves toward the uterus, a journey that can take up to a week to complete. Cell division begins approximately 24 to 36 hours after the male and female cells unite. Cell division continues at a rapid rate and the cells then develop into what is known as a blastocyst. The blastocyst arrives at the uterus and attaches to the uterine wall, a process known as implantation.
    The development of the mass of cells that will become the infant is called embryogenesis during the first approximately ten weeks of gestation. During this time, cells begin to differentiate into the various body systems. The basic outlines of the organ, body, and nervous systems are established. By the end of the embryonic stage, the beginnings of features such as fingers, eyes, mouth, and ears become visible. Also during this time, there is development of structures important to the support of the embryo, including the placenta and umbilical cord. The placenta connects the developing embryo to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother's blood supply. The umbilical cord is the connecting cord from the embryo or fetus to the placenta.
    After about ten weeks of gestational age, the embryo becomes known as a fetus. At the beginning of the fetal stage, the risk of miscarriage decreases sharply.[31] At this stage, a fetus is about 30 mm (1.2 inches) in length, the heartbeat is seen via ultrasound, and the fetus makes involuntary motions.[32] During continued fetal development, the early body systems, and structures that were established in the embryonic stage continue to develop. Sex organs begin to appear during the third month of gestation. The fetus continues to grow in both weight and length, although the majority of the physical growth occurs in the last weeks of pregnancy.
    Electrical brain activity is first detected between the fifth and sixth week of gestation. It is considered primitive neural activity rather than the beginning of conscious thought. Synapses begin forming at 17 weeks, and begin to multiply quickly at week 28 until 3 to 4 months after birth.[33]
    • Embryo at 4 weeks after fertilization. (Gestational age of 6 weeks.)
      •  
    • Fetus at 8 weeks after fertilization. (Gestational age of 10 weeks.)
      •  
    • Fetus at 18 weeks after fertilization. (Gestational age of 20 weeks.)
      •  
    • Fetus at 38 weeks after fertilization. (Gestational age of 40 weeks.)
    • Relative size in 1st month (simplified illustration)
      •  
    • Relative size in 3rd month (simplified illustration)
      •  
    • Relative size in 5th month (simplified illustration)
      •  
    • Relative size in 9th month (simplified illustration)

    Maternal changes

    Main article: Maternal physiological changes in pregnancy
    Breast changes as seen during pregnancy. The areolae are larger and darker.
    During pregnancy, the woman undergoes many physiological changes, which are entirely normal, including cardiovascular, hematologic, metabolic, renal, and respiratory changes. Increases in blood sugar, breathing, and cardiac output are all required. Levels of progesterone and oestrogens rise continually throughout pregnancy, suppressing the hypothalamic axis and therefore also the menstrual cycle.
    The fetus is genetically different from the woman and can be viewed as an unusually successful allograft.[34] The main reason for this success is increased immune tolerance during pregnancy.[35] Immune tolerance is the concept that the body is able to not mount an immune system response against certain triggers.[34]
    Pregnancy is typically broken into three periods, or trimesters, each of about three months.[36][37] Each trimester is defined as 14 weeks, for a total duration of 42 weeks, although the average duration of pregnancy is 40 weeks.[38] While there are no hard and fast rules, these distinctions are useful in describing the changes that take place over time.

    First trimester

    The uterus as it changes in size over the duration of the trimesters
    Minute ventilation increases by 40% in the first trimester.[39] The womb will grow to the size of a lemon by eight weeks. Many symptoms and discomforts of pregnancy like nausea and tender breasts appear in the first trimester.[40]

    Second trimester

    By the end of the second trimester, the expanding uterus has created a visible "baby bump". Although the breasts have been developing internally since the beginning of the pregnancy, most of the visible changes appear after this point.
    Weeks 13 to 28 of the pregnancy are called the second trimester. Most women feel more energized in this period, and begin to put on weight as the symptoms of morning sickness subside and eventually fade away. The uterus, the muscular organ that holds the developing fetus, can expand up to 20 times its normal size during pregnancy.
    Although the fetus begins to move during the first trimester, it is not until the second trimester that movement, often referred to as "quickening", can be felt. This typically happens in the fourth month, more specifically in the 20th to 21st week, or by the 19th week if the woman has been pregnant before. It is common for some women not to feel the fetus move until much later. During the second trimester, most women begin to wear maternity clothes.

    Third trimester

    The uterus expands making up a larger and larger portion of the woman's abdomen. At left anterior view with months labeled, at right lateral view labeling the last 4 weeks. During the final stages of gestation before childbirth the fetus and uterus will drop to a lower position.
    Final weight gain takes place, which is the most weight gain throughout the pregnancy. The woman's abdomen will transform in shape as it drops due to the fetus turning in a downward position ready for birth. During the second trimester, the woman's abdomen would have been upright, whereas in the third trimester it will drop down low. The fetus moves regularly, and is felt by the woman. Fetal movement can become strong and be disruptive to the woman. The woman's navel will sometimes become convex, "popping" out, due to the expanding abdomen.
    Head engagement, where the fetal head descends into cephalic presentation, relieves pressure on the upper abdomen with renewed ease in breathing. It also severely reduces bladder capacity, and increases pressure on the pelvic floor and the rectum.
    It is also during the third trimester that maternal activity and sleep positions may affect fetal development due to restricted blood flow. For instance, the enlarged uterus may impede blood flow by compressing the vena cava when lying flat, which is relieved by lying on the left side.[41]

    Childbirth

    Main article: Childbirth
    Childbirth, referred to as labor and delivery in the medical field, is the process whereby an infant is born.[42]
    A woman is considered to be in labour when she begins experiencing regular uterine contractions, accompanied by changes of her cervix – primarily effacement and dilation. While childbirth is widely experienced as painful, some women do report painless labours, while others find that concentrating on the birth helps to quicken labour and lessen the sensations. Most births are successful vaginal births, but sometimes complications arise and a woman may undergo a cesarean section.
    During the time immediately after birth, both the mother and the baby are hormonally cued to bond, the mother through the release of oxytocin, a hormone also released during breastfeeding. Studies show that skin-to-skin contact between a mother and her newborn immediately after birth is beneficial for both the mother and baby. A review done by the World Health Organization found that skin-to-skin contact between mothers and babies after birth reduces crying, improves mother–infant interaction, and helps mothers to breastfeed successfully. They recommend that neonates be allowed to bond with the mother during their first two hours after birth, the period that they tend to be more alert than in the following hours of early life.[43]

    Childbirth maturity stages

    Further information: Preterm birth and Postterm pregnancy
    Stages of pregnancy term
    stagestartsends
    Preterm[44]
    -
    		at 37 weeks
    Early term[45]37 weeks39 weeks
    Full term[45]39 weeks41 weeks
    Late term[45]41 weeks42 weeks
    Postterm[45]42 weeks
    -
    In the ideal childbirth labor begins on its own when a woman is "at term".[46] Pregnancy is considered at term when gestation has lasted between 37 and 42 weeks.[45]
    Events before completion of 37 weeks are considered preterm.[44] Preterm birth is associated with a range of complications and should be avoided if possible.[47]
    Sometimes if a woman's water breaks or she has contractions before 39 weeks, birth is unavoidable.[45] However, spontaneous birth after 37 weeks is considered term and is not associated with the same risks of a pre-term birth.[42] Planned birth before 39 weeks by Caesarean section or labor induction, although "at term", results in an increased risk of complications.[48] This is from factors including underdeveloped lungs of newborns, infection due to underdeveloped immune system, feeding problems due to underdeveloped brain, and jaundice from underdeveloped liver.[49]
    Babies born between 39 and 41 weeks gestation have better outcomes than babies born either before or after this range.[45] This special time period is called "full term".[45]Whenever possible, waiting for labor to begin on its own in this time period is best for the health of the mother and baby.[46] The decision to perform an induction must be made after weighing the risks and benefits, but is safer after 39 weeks.[46]
    Events after 42 weeks are considered postterm.[45] When a pregnancy exceeds 42 weeks, the risk of complications for both the woman and the fetus increases significantly.[50][51]Therefore, in an otherwise uncomplicated pregnancy, obstetricians usually prefer to induce labour at some stage between 41 and 42 weeks.[52]

    Postnatal period

    Main article: Postnatal
    The postnatal period, also referred to as the puerperium, begins immediately after delivery and extends for about six weeks.[42] During this period, the mother's body begins the return to pre-pregnancy conditions that includes changes in hormone levels and uterus size.[42]

    Diagnosis

    The beginning of pregnancy may be detected either based on symptoms by the woman herself, or by using pregnancy tests. However, an important condition with serious health implications that is quite common is the denial of pregnancy by the pregnant woman. About one in 475 denials will last until around the 20th week of pregnancy. The proportion of cases of denial, persisting until delivery is about 1 in 2500.[53] Conversely, some non-pregnant women have a very strong belief that they are pregnant along with some of the physical changes. This condition is known as a false pregnancy.[54]

    Physical signs

    Further information: Symptoms and discomforts of pregnancy
    Linea nigra in a woman at 22 weeks pregnant
    Most pregnant women experience a number of symptoms,[55] which can signify pregnancy. A number of early medical signs are associated with pregnancy.[56][57] These signs include:

    Biomarkers

    Further information: Pregnancy test
    Pregnancy detection can be accomplished using one or more various pregnancy tests,[59] which detect hormones generated by the newly formed placenta, serving as biomarkers of pregnancy.[60] Blood and urine tests can detect pregnancy 12 days after implantation.[61] Blood pregnancy tests are more sensitive than urine tests (giving fewer false negatives).[62]Home pregnancy tests are urine tests, and normally detect a pregnancy 12 to 15 days after fertilization.[63] A quantitative blood test can determine approximately the date the embryo was conceived because HCG doubles every 36 to 48 hours.[42] A single test of progesterone levels can also help determine how likely a fetus will survive in those with a threatened miscarriage (bleeding in early pregnancy).[64]

    Ultrasound

    Main article: Obstetric ultrasonography
    Obstetric ultrasonography can detect fetal abnormalities, detect multiple pregnancies, and improve gestational dating at 24 weeks.[65] The resultant estimated gestational age and due date of the fetus are slightly more accurate than methods based on last menstrual period.[66] Ultrasound is used to measure the nuchal fold in order to screen for Downs syndrome.[67]

    Management

    An inforgraphic showing a flow chart leading to three diagrams, each showing two human figures depicting different lengths of gestation, with a grid showing weight limits for different locations in front of the body
    Flowchart showing the recommended weight limits for lifting at work during pregnancy as a function of lifting frequency, weeks of gestation, and the position of the lifted object relative to the lifter's body.[68]

    Prenatal care

    Main articles: Prenatal care and pre-conception counseling
    Pre-conception counseling is care that is provided to a woman and/ or couple to discuss conception, pregnancy, current health issues and recommendations for the period before pregnancy.[69]
    Prenatal medical care is the medical and nursing care recommended for women during pregnancy, time intervals and exact goals of each visit differ by country.[70] Women who are high risk have better outcomes if they are seen regularly and frequently by a medical professional than women who are low risk.[71] A woman can be labeled as high risk for different reasons including previous complications in pregnancy, complications in the current pregnancy, current medical diseases, or social issues.[72][73]
    The aim of good prenatal care is prevention, early identification, and treatment of any medical complications.[74] A basic prenatal visit consists of measurement of blood pressure, fundal height, weight and fetal heart rate, checking for symptoms of labor, and guidance for what to expect next.[69]

    Nutrition

    Main article: Nutrition and pregnancy
    Nutrition during pregnancy is important to ensure healthy growth of the fetus.[75] Nutrition during pregnancy is different from the non-pregnant state.[75] There are increased energy requirements and specific micronutrient requirements.[75] Women benefit from education to encourage a balanced energy and protein intake during pregnancy.[76] Some women may need professional medical advice if their diet is affected by medical conditions, food allergies, or specific religious/ ethical beliefs.[77]
    Adequate periconceptional (time before and right after conception) folic acid (also called folate or Vitamin B9) intake has been shown to decrease the risk of fetal neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.[78] The neural tube develops during the first 28 days of pregnancy, a urine pregnancy test is not usually positive until 14 days post-conception, explaining the necessity to guarantee adequate folate intake before conception.[63][79] Folate is abundant in green leafy vegetables, legumes, and citrus.[80] In the United States and Canada, most wheat products (flour, noodles) are fortified with folic acid.[81]
    DHA omega-3 is a major structural fatty acid in the brain and retina, and is naturally found in breast milk.[82] It is important for the woman to consume adequate amounts of DHA during pregnancy and while nursing to support her well-being and the health of her infant.[82] Developing infants cannot produce DHA efficiently, and must receive this vital nutrient from the woman through the placenta during pregnancy and in breast milk after birth.[83]
    Several micronutrients are important for the health of the developing fetus, especially in areas of the world where insufficient nutrition is common.[84] Women living in low and middle income countries are suggested to take multiple micronutrient supplements containing iron and folic acid.[84] These supplements have been shown to improve birth outcomes in developing countries, but do not have an effect on perinatal mortality.[84][85] Adequate intake of folic acid, and iron is often recommended.[86][87] In developed areas, such as Western Europe and the United States, certain nutrients such as Vitamin D and calcium, required for bone development, may also require supplementation.[88][89][90] Vitamin E supplementation has not been shown to improve birth outcomes.[91] Zinc supplementation has been associated with a decrease in preterm birth, but it is unclear whether it is causative.[92] Daily iron supplementation reduces the risk of maternal anemia.[93] Studies of routine daily iron supplementation for pregnant women found improvement in blood iron levels, without a clear clinical benefit.[94] The nutritional needs for women carrying twins or triplets. are higher than those of women carrying one baby.[95]
    Women are counseled to avoid certain foods, because of the possibility of contamination with bacteria or parasites that can cause illness.[96] Careful washing of fruits and raw vegetables may remove these pathogens, as may thoroughly cooking leftovers, meat, or processed meat.[97] Unpasteurized dairy and deli meats may contain Listeria, which can cause neonatal meningitis, stillbirth and miscarriage.[98] Pregnant women are also more prone to Salmonella infections, can be in eggs and poultry, which should be thoroughly cooked.[99] Cat feces and undercooked meats may contain the parasite Toxoplasma gondii and can cause toxoplasmosis.[97] Practicing good hygiene in the kitchen can reduce these risks.[100]
    Women are also counseled to eat seafood in moderation and to eliminate seafood known to be high in mercury because of the risk of birth defects.[99] Pregnant women are counseled to consume caffeine in moderation, because large amounts of caffeine are associated with miscarriage.[42] However, the relationship between caffeine, birthweight, and preterm birth is unclear.[101]

    Weight gain

    The amount of healthy weight gain during a pregnancy varies.[102] Weight gain is related to the weight of the baby, the placenta, extra circulatory fluid, larger tissues, and fat and protein stores.[75] Most needed weight gain occurs later in pregnancy.[103]
    The Institute of Medicine recommends an overall pregnancy weight gain for those of normal weight (body mass index of 18.5–24.9), of 11.3–15.9 kg (25–35 pounds) having a singleton pregnancy.[104] Women who are underweight (BMI of less than 18.5), should gain between 12.7–18 kg (28–40 lbs), while those who are overweight (BMI of 25–29.9) are advised to gain between 6.8–11.3 kg (15–25 lbs) and those who are obese (BMI>30) should gain between 5–9 kg (11–20 lbs).[105] These values reference the expectations for a term pregnancy. The Friedmann-Balayla Model provides a more accurate calculation of weight gain by gestational age.
    During pregnancy, insufficient or excessive weight gain can compromise the health of the mother and fetus.[103] The most effective intervention for weight gain in underweight women is not clear.[103] Being or becoming overweight in pregnancy increases the risk of complications for mother and fetus, including cesarean section, gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, macrosomia and shoulder dystocia.[102] Excessive weight gain can make losing weight after the pregnancy difficult.[102][106]
    Around 50% of women of childbearing age in developed countries like the United Kingdom are overweight or obese before pregnancy.[106] Diet modification is the most effective way to reduce weight gain and associated risks in pregnancy.[106] A diet that has foods with a low glycemic index may help prevent the onset of gestational diabetes.[107]

    Medication

    Main article: Pharmaceutical drugs in pregnancy
    Drugs used during pregnancy can have temporary or permanent effects on the fetus.[108] Anything (including drugs) that can cause permanent deformities in the fetus are labeled as teratogens.[109] In the U.S., drugs were classified into categories A, B, C, D and X based on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rating system to provide therapeutic guidance based on potential benefits and fetal risks.[110] Drugs, including some multivitamins, that have demonstrated no fetal risks after controlled studies in humans are classified as Category A.[108] On the other hand, drugs like thalidomide with proven fetal risks that outweigh all benefits are classified as Category X.[108]

    Recreational drugs

    The use of recreational drugs in pregnancy can cause various pregnancy complications.[42]
    Intrauterine exposure to environmental toxins in pregnancy has the potential to cause adverse effects on the development of the embryo/fetus and to cause pregnancy complications.[42] Air pollution has been associated with low birth weight infants.[117] Conditions of particular severity in pregnancy include mercury poisoning and lead poisoning.[42] To minimize exposure to environmental toxins, the American College of Nurse-Midwives recommends: checking whether the home has lead paint, washing all fresh fruits and vegetablesthoroughly and buying organic produce, and avoiding cleaning products labeled "toxic" or any product with a warning on the label.[118]
    Pregnant women can also be exposed to toxins in the workplace, including airborne particles. The effects of wearing N95 filtering facepiece respirators are similar for pregnant women as non-pregnant women, and wearing a respirator for one hour does not affect the fetal heart rate.[119]

    Sexual activity

    Main article: Sexual activity during pregnancy
    Most women can continue to engage in sexual activity throughout pregnancy.[120] Most research suggests that during pregnancy both sexual desire and frequency of sexual relations decrease.[121][122] In context of this overall decrease in desire, some studies indicate a second-trimester increase, preceding a decrease during the third trimester.[123][124]
    Sex during pregnancy is a low-risk behavior except when the healthcare provider advises that sexual intercourse be avoided for particular medical reasons.[120] For a healthy pregnant woman, there is no safe or right way to have sex during pregnancy.[120] Pregnancy alters the vaginal flora with a reduction in microscopic species/genus diversity.[125]

    Exercise

    Regular aerobic exercise during pregnancy appears to improve (or maintain) physical fitness.[126] Physical exercise during pregnancy does appear to decrease the risk of C-section.[127] Bed rest, outside of research studies, is not recommended as there is no evidence of benefit and potential harm.[128]
    The Clinical Practice Obstetrics Committee of Canada recommends that "All women without contraindications should be encouraged to participate in aerobic and strength-conditioning exercises as part of a healthy lifestyle during their pregnancy".[129] Although an upper level of safe exercise intensity has not been established, women who were regular exercisers before pregnancy and who have uncomplicated pregnancies should be able to engage in high intensity exercise programs.[129] In general, participation in a wide range of recreational activities appears to be safe, with the avoidance of those with a high risk of falling such as horseback riding or skiing or those that carry a risk of abdominal trauma, such as soccer or hockey.[130]
    The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports that in the past, the main concerns of exercise in pregnancy were focused on the fetus and any potential maternal benefit was thought to be offset by potential risks to the fetus. However, they write that more recent information suggests that in the uncomplicated pregnancy, fetal injuries are highly unlikely.[130] They do, however, list several circumstances when a woman should contact her health care provider before continuing with an exercise program: vaginal bleeding, dyspnea before exertion, dizziness, headache, chest pain, muscle weakness, preterm labor, decreased fetal movement, amniotic fluid leakage, and calf pain or swelling (to rule out thrombophlebitis).[130]

    Sleep

    It has been suggested that shift work and exposure to bright light at night should be avoided at least during the last trimester of pregnancy to decrease the risk of psychological and behavioral problems in the newborn.[131]

    Complications

    Main article: Complications of pregnancy
    Each year, ill health as a result of pregnancy is experienced (sometimes permanently) by more than 20 million women around the world.[132] In 2013 complications of pregnancy resulted in 293,000 deaths down from 377,000 deaths in 1990. Common causes include maternal bleeding (44,000), complications of abortion (44,000), high blood pressure of pregnancy (29,000), maternal sepsis (24,000), and obstructed labor (19,000).[11]
    The following are some examples of pregnancy complications:

    Intercurrent diseases

    Main article: Intercurrent disease in pregnancy
    A pregnant woman may have intercurrent diseases, defined as disease not directly caused by the pregnancy, but that may become worse or be a potential risk to the pregnancy.

    Medical imaging

    CT scanning (volume rendered in this case) confers a radiation dose to the developing fetus.
    Main article: Medical imaging in pregnancy
    Medical imaging may be indicated in pregnancy because of pregnancy complications, intercurrent diseases or routine prenatal care. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without MRI contrast agents as well as obstetric ultrasonography are not associated with any risk for the mother or the fetus, and are the imaging techniques of choice for pregnant women.[140] Projectional radiography, X-ray computed tomography and nuclear medicine imaging result in some degree of ionizing radiation exposure, but in most cases the absorbed doses are not associated with harm to the baby.[140] At higher dosages, effects can include miscarriage, birth defects and intellectual disability.[140]

    Epidemiology

    See also: Pregnancy rate and Advanced maternal age
    About 213 million pregnancies occurred in 2012 of which 190 million were in the developing world and 23 million were in the developed world. This is about 133 pregnancies per 1,000 women between the ages of 15 and 44.[10] About 10% to 15% of recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage.[2] Globally 40% of pregnancies are unplanned. Half of unplanned pregnancies are aborted.[10]
    Of pregnancies in 2012 120 million occurred in Asia, 54 million in Africa, 19 million in Europe, 18 million in Latin America and the Caribbean, 7 million in North America, and 1 million in Oceania.[10] Pregnancy rates are 140 per 1000 women of childbearing age in the developing world and 94 per 1000 in the developed world.[10]
    The rate of pregnancy, as well as the ages at which it occurs, differ by country and region. It is influenced by a number of factors, such as cultural, social and religious norms; access to contraception; and rates of education. The total fertility rate (TFR) in 2013 was estimated to be highest in Niger (7.03 children/woman) and lowest in Singapore (0.79 children/woman).[141]
    In Europe, the average childbearing age has been rising continuously for some time. In Western, Northern, and Southern Europe, first-time mothers are on average 26 to 29 years old, up from 23 to 25 years at the start of the 1970s. In a number of European countries (Spain), the mean age of women at first childbirth has crossed the 30-year threshold.
    This process is not restricted to Europe. Asia, Japan and the United States are all seeing average age at first birth on the rise, and increasingly the process is spreading to countries in the developing world like China, Turkey and Iran. In the US, the average age of first childbirth was 25.4 in 2010.[142]
    In the United States and United Kingdom, 40% of pregnancies are unplanned, and between a quarter and half of those unplanned pregnancies were unwanted pregnancies.[143][144]
    Globally, an estimated 270,000 women die from pregnancy-related complications each year.[145]

    Society and culture

    Giotto di Bondone
    Visitation, circa 1305
    In most cultures, pregnant women have a special status in society and receive particularly gentle care.[146] At the same time, they are subject to expectations that may exert great psychological pressure, such as having to produce a son and heir. In many traditional societies, pregnancy must be preceded by marriage, on pain of ostracism of mother and (illegitimate) child.
    Overall, pregnancy is accompanied by numerous customs that are often subject to ethnological research, often rooted in traditional medicineor religion. The baby shower is an example of a modern custom.
    Pregnancy is an important topic in sociology of the family. The prospective child may preliminarily be placed into numerous social roles. The parents' relationship and the relation between parents and their surroundings are also affected.
    A belly cast may be made during pregnancy as a keepsake.

    Arts

    Main article: Pregnancy in art
    Images of pregnant women, especially small figurines, were made in traditional cultures in many places and periods, though it is rarely one of the most common types of image. These include ceramic figures from some Pre-Columbian cultures, and a few figures from most of the ancient Mediterranean cultures. Many of these seem to be connected with fertility. Identifying whether such figures are actually meant to show pregnancy is often a problem, as well as understanding their role in the culture concerned.
    Among the oldest surviving examples of the depiction of pregnancy are prehistoric figurines found across much of Eurasia and collectively known as Venus figurines. Some of these appear to be pregnant.
    Due to the important role of the Mother of God in Christianity, the Western visual arts have a long tradition of depictions of pregnancy, especially in the biblical scene of the Visitation, and devotional images called a Madonna del Parto.[147]
    The unhappy scene usually called Diana and Callisto, showing the moment of discovery of Callisto's forbidden pregnancy, is sometimes painted from the Renaissance onwards. Gradually, portraits of pregnant women began to appear, with a particular fashion for "pregnancy portraits" in elite portraiture of the years around 1600.
    Pregnancy, and especially pregnancy of unmarried women, is also an important motif in literature. Notable examples include Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles and Goethe's Faust.

    Infertility

    Main article: Infertility
    Modern reproductive medicine offers many forms of assisted reproductive technology for couples who stay childless against their will, such as fertility medication, artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization and surrogacy.

    Abortion

    Main article: Abortion
    An abortion is the termination of an embryo or fetus, either naturally or via medical methods.[148] When done electively, it is more often done within the first trimester than the second, and rarely in the third.[31] Not using contraception, contraceptive failure, poor family planning or rape can lead to undesired pregnancies. Legality of socially indicated abortions varies widely both internationally and through time. In most countries of Western Europe, abortions during the first trimester were a criminal offense a few decades ago[when?] but have since been legalized, sometimes subject to mandatory consultations. In Germany, for example, as of 2009 less than 3% of abortions had a medical indication.

    Legal protection

    Many countries have various legal regulations in place to protect pregnant women and their children. Maternity Protection Convention ensures that pregnant women are exempt from activities such as night shifts or carrying heavy stocks. Maternity leave typically provides paid leave from work during roughly the last trimester of pregnancy and for some time after birth. Notable extreme cases include Norway (8 months with full pay) and the United States (no paid leave at all except in some states). Moreover, many countries have laws against pregnancy discrimination.
    In 2014, the American state of Kentucky passed a law which allows prosecutors to charge a woman with criminal assault if she uses illegal drugs during her pregnancy and her fetus or newborn is considered harmed as a result.[149]
    In the United States, laws make some actions that result in miscarriage or stillbirth crimes. One such law is the federal Unborn Victims of Violence Act.

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