Voice Call

Talk to a doctor by phone

Text Chat

Chat with a doctor via chat

Home Medical Terms Pregnancy and Childbirth Pregnancy

Pregnancy | Pregnancy

What is Pregnancy?

Pregnancy occurs when a sperm fertilizes an egg after it has been released from the ovary and travels to the uterus. Fertilization happens when the sperm and egg unite. The fertilized egg then travels to the lower part of the uterus where implantation occurs, thus beginning the pregnancy.

A full-term pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, or nine months, calculated from the first day of the woman's last menstrual period. Many factors affect pregnancy. Women who receive good prenatal care are more likely to have a healthy pregnancy and give birth to healthy babies.

It is important for women to know the stages, changes, and symptoms they will experience during pregnancy to monitor their health and the health of their baby. If a woman wishes to prevent pregnancy, she can use one of the methods of contraception. Stages of Pregnancy

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each with its own medical characteristics for the pregnant woman and her fetus. The stages of pregnancy are as follows:

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12): The fetus grows rapidly during the first three months of pregnancy. Its brain, spinal cord, and major organs begin to develop, and its heart starts beating. The risk of miscarriage is relatively high during this first trimester, and women are always advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms of miscarriage.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27): During the second trimester, a doctor can perform an ultrasound scan. This test examines the fetus for any developmental abnormalities and can also reveal the sex of the fetus. During this stage of pregnancy, the pregnant woman may feel her baby move, kick, and thump inside the uterus.

Third trimester (third month of pregnancy): During the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40), the pregnant woman's weight gain will accelerate, and she may experience increased fatigue and exhaustion. During this stage, the baby can sense light and open and close its eyes, and its bones continue to develop.

As labor approaches, the pregnant woman may experience pain and heaviness in her pelvis, her feet may swell, and Braxton Hicks contractions may begin in the weeks leading up to delivery.