You take a pregnancy test and see the two stripes. The results are positive: you’re pregnant. Now what? Whether you decide to continue with the pregnancy or not, a good first step is to calculate how many weeks you’ve been pregnant (this is called calculating your gestational duration, or gestational age). That way, you'll know your options. Generally, if you go to see a doctor or nurse, they’ll give you an ultrasound and tell you how far along you are in your pregnancy. You can also calculate the gestational duration, even before you go to your first appointment. Here’s how to do the math.How to calculate gestational durationGestational duration is counted from the first day of your last period. This...
Question #1: Can I still exercise while pregnant? Yes, you can still exercise while pregnant! It has a plethora of benefits for both you and your baby. Reducing your risk of gestational diabetes Lowering your risk of developing high blood pressure Helping you cope with the aches and pains of pregnancy Improving your mood and energy levels Promoting better sleep Preparing your body for labor and delivery Remember to always consult with your doctor or trusted pregnancy expert before starting or continuing an exercise routine during this special time. Question #2: How often should I get prenatal checkups? Prenatal checkups are important appointments that you should not miss. You need to see your doctor or midwife once a month for...
How do pregnancy tests work?Pregnancy tests are an easy and accurate way to find out if you’re pregnant — you just pee on a stick. They’re inexpensive and available at most drug and grocery stores.How accurate are pregnancy tests?Pregnancy tests are super accurate when you use them correctly. The pregnancy tests you get at the drugstore work 99 out of 100 times. They’re just as accurate as a urine pregnancy test that you’d get at a doctor’s office. Pregnancy tests work by checking your urine (pee) for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Your body only makes this hormone if you’re pregnant. HCG is released when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of your uterus — when pregnancy...
