Pregnancy
What is Pregnancy? How does one get Pregnant?
Pregnancy (conception/fertilization) most commonly occurs when a sperm fertilises an egg by joining with it during sexual intercourse without contraception, (or assisted reproduction). The fertilised egg moves down into the uterus and implants itself into the uterus lining where it begins to grow and deveop into an embryo. The embryo grows into a foetus.
Conception only takes place at a particular time of the month in the female during her menstrual cycle.
What are the early symptoms of Pregnancy?
Early symptoms of pregnancy can include:
- missed period
- morning sickness
- feeling nauseous
- sore breasts
- tiredness
- The need to urinate more often.
These symptoms don’t always mean that you are pregnant, so it is best to do a simple pregnancy test.
How do I know I am Pregnant?
- Take a Pregnancy Test. This is either a urine or blood test at any laboratory. You can also get a home pregnancy kit from any leading pharmacy in your city. Xact is a home pregnancy kit available at all leading pharmacies.
Procedure to check pregnancy on pregnancy strip:
- Collect the urine specimen in a clean container
- Take out the strip from the foil to use immediately (use the opened strip within one hour)
- Immerse the strip into the urine sample with the arrow end pointing towards the urine. Be sure that the urine level remains below the line marked under the arrow
- Take out the strip after 5 seconds and put away for 5 minutes for the result to appear
- Positive (Pregnancy): Two distinct red bands will appear.
- Negative (No Pregnancy): Only a single red band will appear.
- Invalid: If there is no line or a single faded line, then repeat the test with a new urine sample and strip.
- If the pregnancy test is positive: consult a doctor/gynecologist. If you have concerns or questions regarding your pregnancy test result, or have an unwanted pregnancy call the 24/7 toll free number 0800-22333 or Email : advice@srhmatters.org
How can a woman have a healthy pregnancy?
The key to having a healthy pregnancy is taking good care of your health. See an obstetrician/physician regularly for prenatal visits. Take a balanced diet, with daily prenatal vitamins/supplements.
It has been seen that women who receive regular prenatal care are less likely to have serious problems related to pregnancy and more likely to deliver healthy babies.
How can I prevent pregnancy?
You need to use a form of contraception. A range of options are available to you. Check out the Contraception page for more information.
It is important to remember that while the contraception may protect you against pregnancy, only condoms can prevent pregnancy and protect you against HIV/AIDS and other STIs.
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