Normal Pregnancy

Essay by stwillieyUniversity, Master'sA, November 2014

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NORMAL PREGNANCY IN FEMALE � PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT �9�

Normal Pregnancy in a Female

Sonja Twilliey

William Carey University

Hattiesburg, Ms

Dr. Robin C. Dennis�

The pathology of pregnancy is a long, complex process that involves the fertilization of an ovum and its growth into a fetus. Pregnancy introduces a variety of hormonal changes to the human body, so it is important to understand how this process and these physiological changes affect women and the developing fetus. A typical pregnancy lasts about nine months, and it is important that pregnant women understand pregnancy and what goes on during each phase of the process. In addition, the female body and the developing embryo are susceptible to a range of health issues, so a number of complications can occur between conception and birth. By equipping patients with accurate information and helping them understand the process of pregnancy, as well as potential risks and complications, nurses can help patients become more aware of their body, the one developing in them, and the decisions that they make leading up to childbirth.

Background

Preconception Planning

A large number of the risks and complications associated with pregnancy are greatest from seventeen to fifty six days after conception, "before [the] first obstetric visit, and before many women know they are pregnant" ('Preconception', 2009). As a result, issues that can be minimized or prevented often become larger problems in the later stages of pregnancy. For this reason, it is suggested that couples use a form of contraception to plan ahead and prevent unexpected pregnancy. This planning "facilitate[s] [the] desired timing of pregnancy" and helps couples consider other factors such as "maternal age and interpregnancy interval," which are both important for determining the risks and complications that may occur during pregnancy ('Preconception', 2009). In addition, tracking menstrual cycles also...