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Your baby grows and develops rapidly throughout pregnancy. Growth happens in stages, with different organs and body systems developing at different times.First Trimester During the first trimester, the foundations of your baby's major organs and body systems begin to develop. The heart starts beating, the brain and spinal cord develop, and the arms, legs and facial features begin to form.Second Trimester Your baby continues to grow and become more active. Bones develop, facial features become more defined, and your baby begins to hear sounds. You may start feeling movements during this trimester.Third Trimester Your baby continues to gain weight and mature in preparation for birth. The brain, lungs and other organs continue developing, and movements remain an important part of your pregnancy.Every baby develops at their own pace, and your healthcare provider will monitor growth during your antenatal care when needed.Supporting Your Baby's Growth There is no single food, exercise or yoga practice that determines how your baby grows. A balanced diet, appropriate prenatal care, adequate rest and healthy lifestyle habits all contribute to a healthy pregnancy.If your pregnancy is uncomplicated and your healthcare provider has cleared you for exercise, gentle prenatal yoga can support your own strength, mobility, relaxation and overall wellbeing during pregnancy.Every pregnancy is unique. Regular antenatal care is the best way to monitor your baby's growth and development. 🤍This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor or maternity care team.&nbsp; <figure id="figure-nqku36t3dglryyvus4"><img id="nqku36t3dglryyvus4" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528218635780-5952720c9729?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8cHJlZ25hbmN5JTIwMXN0JTIwVHJpbWVzdGVyfGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjUzNTAzMXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="man kissing woman's forehead white holding ultrasound photo" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl selected" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="1st Trimester - We are growing Love" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528218635780-5952720c9729?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8cHJlZ25hbmN5JTIwMXN0JTIwVHJpbWVzdGVyfGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjUzNTAzMXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-mce-selected="1"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">1st Trimester - We are growing Love</figcaption></figure>

Fetal Growth During Pregnancy

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Your breasts naturally change during pregnancy as your body prepares for breastfeeding. You may notice that they become larger or more tender, your nipples and areola become darker, veins become more visible, or small bumps around the areola become more noticeable. These changes are usually normal.&nbsp;How to Care for Your Breasts Wear a comfortable, supportive bra as your breasts grow. Keep the breast and nipple area clean and comfortable. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may dry or irritate the nipples. Be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel. Eat a balanced diet and stay well hydrated. There is generally no need to prepare the nipples by rubbing or scrubbing them during pregnancy.When Should You See Your Doctor? Speak with your doctor or midwife if you notice:A new breast lump Persistent breast pain Significant changes in the skin or nipple Unusual or blood-stained nipple discharge Redness, swelling or other changes that concern you Most breast changes during pregnancy are harmless, but unusual changes should always be checked.&nbsp;Your breasts are preparing for an important new role. Gentle care and awareness are usually all you need during pregnancy. 🤍*This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.<figure id="figure-fg0tga2l6rlryyyi3f" class=""><img id="fg0tga2l6rlryyyi3f" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1606572733585-1c54ba3cf917?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxzdHJldGNoJTIwbWFya3MlMjBwcmVnbmFuY3l8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2NTM1MTUwfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="woman in pink panty and bra" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1606572733585-1c54ba3cf917?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxzdHJldGNoJTIwbWFya3MlMjBwcmVnbmFuY3l8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2NTM1MTUwfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Stretch marks&nbsp; They come from around the beginning of the third month of pregnancy. It is advisable to start using oils infused with herbs that have the skin and check the development of stretch marks. Example: Use Santolan rose beauty oil, or a KumkumAdhya oil to gently massage the abdomen, thighs, and buttock. If you can add San massage powder to the oil, it will further enhance the benefits, reduce itchiness, and prevent looseness of the skin. This should be done every day in the second trimester and from the 6-month onwards (third trimester), do this twice a day for best results.Ayurvedic literature has several suggestions to help minimize stretch marks. Gently massage the breasts and abdomen with a paste made of sandalwood and lotus stem. You can prepare a mixer by mixing equal parts of the bark of the Shirish tree, the flower of the day at the plant, mustard seeds, and jyeshthamadha, should be massaged gently onto the breasts and abdomen. From the 4th month onwards, the pregnant women should begin the practice of massaging her entire body gently with oil. One should use oil like Santolan Abhiyang Sesame oil. Applying this oil every now and then all over the body will help prevent unnecessary weight gain and maintenance of the figure. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; During the last 3 months this massage becomes imperative and should be supplemented with another oil, specifically prepared for the back and spine like Santulan Kundalini oil. This oil should be massaged into the waist and back, and up to the shoulder every day without fail.&nbsp; Why to do this: This keeps the joints in the back, supple and lubricated, which in turn, facilitates the process of labor.&nbsp; All these measures balance Vata, help to maintain good health and a trim figure. They also aid in conserving strength and preparing the body for timely and easy labor.

Breast Care During Pregnancy

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy Eating a balanced diet during pregnancy helps support your health and your baby's growth and development. You do not need to follow a special diet or eat for two. Focus on variety, balance and nourishing foods. (nhs.uk)What to Include Try to include a variety of:Fresh fruits and vegetables Whole grains and other fibre-rich foods Protein such as pulses, beans, eggs, fish, lean meat, nuts and seeds Milk, yoghurt and other calcium-rich foods Healthy fats Wash fruits and vegetables well and follow recommended food-safety practices during pregnancy. (nhs.uk)Important Nutrients Folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients are important during pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend supplements depending on your individual needs.Folic acid is especially important in early pregnancy, with 400 micrograms daily generally recommended until 12 weeks. Some women may need a higher dose prescribed by their doctor. Foods and Drinks to Limit or Avoid Avoid alcohol during pregnancy. Caffeine should generally be limited to 200 mg a day. Certain foods, including raw or undercooked meat, some unpasteurised foods and certain high-mercury fish, should also be avoided.Listen to Your Body Pregnancy can change your appetite, food preferences and digestion. Smaller, balanced meals may feel more comfortable, especially if you experience nausea or heartburn.You don't need to follow a rigid meal plan. Choose nourishing foods that work for you and your pregnancy.Good nutrition during pregnancy is not about eating more — it's about nourishing yourself well. 🤍*This article is for general information and does not replace individual dietary or medical advice.<figure id="figure-sbtmyvit75lryz3klr"><img id="sbtmyvit75lryz3klr" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497888329096-51c27beff665?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1N3x8bWVhbCUyMHByZWduYW5jeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY1MzU0NDR8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="two bowls of oatmeal with fruits" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Healthy and Adequate meal" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497888329096-51c27beff665?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1N3x8bWVhbCUyMHByZWduYW5jeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY1MzU0NDR8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Healthy and Adequate meal</figcaption></figure>

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy

Once conception occurs, your body begins a remarkable process of supporting your developing pregnancy. The early weeks are a time of rapid change, even before you notice many physical symptoms.What Happens After Conception? After fertilisation, the developing embryo travels towards the uterus and implants into the uterine lining. The pregnancy hormone hCG begins to rise after implantation and is what pregnancy tests detect.&nbsp;When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test? A home pregnancy test is generally most reliable from the first day of your missed period. If you don't know when your period is due, testing at least 21 days after unprotected sex is recommended.&nbsp;What Should You Do After a Positive Test? Once you know you are pregnant:Arrange your prenatal care. Start or continue your recommended prenatal vitamins, including folic acid. Review any medicines and supplements with your doctor. Avoid alcohol and smoking. Eat a balanced diet and stay appropriately active. Keep your antenatal appointments. Early prenatal care helps your healthcare provider monitor your health and your baby's development.&nbsp;What About Yoga? If you were already practising yoga before pregnancy, your practice may need to be modified as pregnancy progresses.Gentle, pregnancy-appropriate yoga can support movement, relaxation, breathing and body awareness. If you have a medical condition, pregnancy complication or are unsure about continuing your practice, speak with your healthcare provider first.The beginning of pregnancy is a time to slow down, listen to your body and give yourself the care you need. 🤍This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.

After Conception: What Happens Next?

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Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy. It begins to rise in early pregnancy and is detected by urine and blood pregnancy tests.&nbsp;What Does hCG Do? hCG supports the early pregnancy and rises rapidly during the first few weeks. Levels generally reach their highest point around the end of the first trimester and then decrease.&nbsp;How Is hCG Tested? hCG can be detected through:Urine pregnancy tests — commonly used at home. Blood tests — can measure the amount of hCG in the blood and may be used when your doctor needs more detailed information. A home pregnancy test is generally most reliable from the first day of a missed period.&nbsp;Do hCG Levels Have to Double? Not necessarily. hCG levels vary considerably between pregnancies, so one hCG number cannot by itself determine whether a pregnancy is progressing normally.When your doctor needs to assess early pregnancy, they may look at hCG levels over time along with symptoms and ultrasound findings.What If Your hCG Level Is Higher or Lower Than Expected? An hCG result outside a particular reference range does not automatically mean something is wrong. The timing of the pregnancy, individual variation and other factors can affect the result.If your doctor is concerned about your hCG levels, they may recommend repeat blood tests or an ultrasound to understand what is happening.Try not to compare your hCG number with someone else's. Your healthcare provider is the best person to interpret your results in the context of your pregnancy.*This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice. <figure id="figure-o3riiniqrplryzamkh"><img id="o3riiniqrplryzamkh" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1627728724901-e79f35800820?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxheXVydmVkYXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY1MzU3MTh8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="text" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Ayurveda, a Boon" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1627728724901-e79f35800820?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxheXVydmVkYXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY1MzU3MTh8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Ayurveda, a Boon</figcaption></figure>

HCG Levels During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

The first trimester is a period of rapid growth and development. From fertilisation through the first 13 weeks, your baby's major organs and body systems begin to form.&nbsp;Weeks 1–4 After fertilisation, the developing embryo travels to the uterus and implants in the uterine lining. The placenta also begins to develop and will provide oxygen and nutrients to your baby throughout pregnancy.&nbsp;Weeks 5–8 This is a time of rapid development. The brain and spinal cord begin to form, the heart starts developing, and the arms, legs, eyes, ears and facial features begin to take shape.&nbsp;Weeks 9–12 Your baby's development continues quickly. The limbs become more defined, eyelids form, the kidneys begin producing urine, and the fingers and fingernails develop. By the end of week 12, the baby is recognisably developing into a small human form.&nbsp;Looking After Yourself The first trimester is an important time to prioritise your health. Attend your prenatal appointments, take recommended supplements such as folic acid, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and smoking.If your pregnancy is uncomplicated, gentle physical activity may be continued according to your healthcare provider's advice.Most importantly, remember that every pregnancy develops at its own pace. Your healthcare provider will monitor your pregnancy and recommend scans or tests when appropriate.This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.*Medical checkups and screenings are important during this period to monitor the health of both the mother and the developing fetus ❤️❤️

Blog

Fetal Growth During Pregnancy

Breast Care During Pregnancy

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy

After Conception: What Happens Next?

HCG Levels During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Fetal Development in the First Trimester