What to Know Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a natural biological process that involves the conception, growth, and birth of a child. It usually lasts about nine months and involves several critical stages.

1. Conception: It occurs when a sperm fertilizes an egg. The fertilized egg, called a zygote, travels through the fallopian tubes and implants itself into the lining of the uterus.
2. Embryonic Stage (Weeks 1-8): During this stage, the zygote develops into an embryo. Organs and systems of the developing human being begin to form rapidly.
3. Fetal Stage (Weeks 9-40): This is the longest phase of pregnancy. Over these weeks, the fetus grows significantly, and its major organs and systems mature.
4. First trimester: The first trimester lasts from conception to week 12. It involves rapid growth of the fetus and development of essential organs.
5. Second trimester: This trimester spans weeks 13 to 28. During this period, the fetus grows rapidly, and the mother may start to show noticeable physical changes.
6. Third trimester: The final stage of pregnancy, lasting from week 29 to week 40. This is when the fetus gains weight rapidly, and the mother prepares for childbirth.
7. Childbirth: Also known as labor and delivery, this is the process by which the mother gives birth to the child. It typically occurs at around week 40 of pregnancy.

Throughout pregnancy, regular prenatal care is essential. It involves medical visits and tests to monitor the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing child. Proper nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices are also important during pregnancy for a healthy outcome.