Menstrual Phases

The four phases of the menstrual cycle are the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase, and luteal phase. The menstrual phase is when the lining in the uterus sheds, usually for 3-7 days. During the follicular phase the body is releasing follicle stimulating hormones, and each of these follicles houses an immature egg. One of these develops into a mature egg. Ovulation is the release of the egg, and this usually happens in the middle of this 28 day cycle. The Luteal phase is in between the egg release and your next menstruation, and it is when the uterus lining is being thickened.

Fertilization/ conception

There is a chance for fertilization during the ovulation phase in the menstrual cycle. Ovulation day is usually day 14 of a woman's cycle, and the coming in contact with sperm five days before or after that can lead to fertilization. When the sperm meets the egg, the development of the baby begins.

To Do During Pregnancy

There are many myths about pregnancy on what woman can and can't do. Some of the things woman can do include drinking tea, drinking caffeine (in moderation), color their hair, and eat deli meat (if it's cooked).

It is recommended that women take prenatal vitamins, keep a healthy diet, and exercise lightly 30 minutes a day.

What Not To Do During Pregnancy

There are also many activities that should be avoided while pregnant. This includes eating fish, soft cheeses, going in the hot tub, taking over the counter drugs without consulting a doctor, ride amusement park rides, exercise heavily, be around fumes for too long, and become too stressed.

First Trimester

During the first trimester or pregnancy, the mother misses her period, experiences fatigue, morning sickness, nausea, and frequent urination. Usually a pregnancy test is taken during this. The test detects pregnancy when the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin, is there.

Month 1

During the first month, cell multiplication starts to begin, the egg attaches to the uterus lining, and the mother misses her period. The organs in the baby begin to form, and the heart even starts beating. The arms and legs begin to form.

Month 2

The embryo is 1/4 inch long. The face, eyes, ears, bones and limbs begin to form shape. The internal organs continue to develop.

For the mother, the uterus enlarges, which leads to more frequent urination. The mother may feel more tired all the time and even have morning sickness.

Month 3

By now the fetus is 1 inch long. All the organs are present but not fully functioning yet. Fingers and toes are almost complete. Facial features form.

The mother can expect about 2-4 pounds of weight gain by now, along with nausea, fatigue, enlarged abdomen, and larger uterus.

Second Trimester

The second trimester is when pregnancy starts to take a toll on the mother's skin and emotions. Skin is unique to each new mother, but oily or dry scaly skin is common. The facial skin may darken, and stretch marks start to appear around the stomach and thighs. Mood swings are common, depressing dreams, and may need extra time to relax during the day.

Month 4

The fetus is now about 3 inches long and weighs about one ounce. The fetus can suck thumb, swallow, and move a little. The facial features are more distinct.

The mom experiences an increased appetite and more size change.

Month 5

The fetus is about 6-7 inches and weighs 4-5 ounces. Facial hair starts to appear, the teeth keep developing, and the organs keep maturing. At this point the fetus is more active and moves around more. The heartbeat can be heard through a stethoscope.

The mother's 'pregnancy belly' is obvious because of the enlarged abdomen.

Month 6

The fetus is now 8-10 inches long and weighs 8-12 ounces. The babies body can now maintain fat. Breathing usually begins during this month.

The fetus is moving a lot, and the kicks and thumps can be felt by the mom. The mother should have gained about 10-12 pounds at this point.