Baby Project, Day 2

1) At five weeks is the mark of embryonic period. This is when the baby's brain, spinal cord, heart, and other organs begin to form. The embryo is now made up of three layers: the top layer-the ectoderm which gives rise to the baby's skin, nervous system, eyes, inner ear, and many connective tissues. The middle layer is called the mesoderm which is where the baby's heart and circulartory system will form and this layer also gives foundation to the baby's bones, muscles, kidneys, and much of the reproductive system. The inner layer of cells- the endoderm will become a simple tube lined with mucous memebranes. The baby's lungs, intestines, and bladder will develop here. By this week. the baby should be about 1/16 to 1/8 inch long. At week six, your baby's heart is pumping blood. Basic facial features will begin to appear, including passageways that will make up the inner ear and arches that will contribute to the jaw. The baby should be about 1/6 to 1/4 inch long. At week seven, the baby's brain and face are rapidly developing. Tiny nostrils become visible and the eye lenses begin to form. The baby should be about 1/4 to 1/3 inch long. At week eight, the baby's arms and legs are growing longer, and fingers have begun to form. The baby's ears are forming and its eyes and nipples are visible. The upper lip and nose have formed and the trunk of the baby's body is beginning to straighten. Also the baby might begin to move but the mother will not be able to feel it. The baby should be about 1/2 inch long.

2)The mothers body is changing in many ways, blemishes or spots start to appear on the face, waist and hips get bulkier, thighs put on more flesh, abdomen becomes bulky, loose, and spots may start to appear along with stretch marks, and the size of breats enlarge and milk starts being produced. In certain cases the naval may protrude.

3)There are many contributing factors for a mother to possible have twins or triplets which is fertility treatment which some mothers do. Another is age, an older women is more likely to have twins or triplets than a women in her twenties. Also heredity is a factor because twins or triplets are said to run in families. The last factor is size, researches say maternal height and weight can play a role in whether you have twins/triplets or not.

4)In choosing a doctor or midwife you must first decide on what you want from them. Are you a person who wants to be lead by the hand through the pregnancy? Do you see your role as a partner with the care provider? Do you only want basic information or all of the information available? Should you be told what to do or be given the ability to make your own decisions? Do you want to be a patient or a client? After you decide on what you want, make a list of providers that you think qualify, then interview each one of them until you find one that meets your criteria. Do not just choose a care provider solely from referal from friends and family, choose one you think is the best for yourself.  It is possible to give birth at home and some women prefer it because it is a relaxing environment in which you are comfortable in. But with giving birth at home, there are risks like if something goes wrong you will not have the advanteges of the technology of a hospital.

5) Some tips for a healthy pregnancy include :

1. Eat five or six well-balanced meals each day.
2. Take a prenatal vitamin each day as directed by your obstetrician.
3. Drink plenty of fluids, at least eight to ten glasses a day, avoiding caffeine and artificial coloring.
4. Don't drink alcohol.
5. Don't smoke or allow yourself to be exposed to second-hand smoke.
6. Exercise--it's important for your general health, and also to reduce stress. Take a pregnancy exercise class or walk at least 15 to 20 minutes every day at a moderate pace. Walk in cool, shaded areas or indoors in order to prevent overheating.
7. Get adequate sleep--at least eight hours a night. If you're suffering from sleep disturbances, take naps during the day and see your physician for advice.
8. Wear comfortable, non-restricting shoes and put your feet up several times a day to prevent fatigue and swelling of the feet, legs, and ankles.
9. Continue to wear a safety belt while riding in motor vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the shoulder portion of the restraint should be positioned over the collar bone. The lap portion should be placed under the abdomen as low as possible on the hips and across the upper thighs, never above the abdomen. Also, pregnant women should sit as far from the air bag as possible.
10. Don't take over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies without first consulting your obstetrician.