Pregnancy Quiz

Early pregnancy symptoms

This pregnancy quiz consists of three sections, each with a set of 4 questions that can be answered by yes or no. Each of the section focuses on an aspect of reproductive health and symptomology, as follows:

Section I – Intercourse and menstrual cycle

■ Protected or unprotected intercourse;

■ Last menstrual cycle;

■ Lateness in period;

■ Spotting bleeding

Section II – Physical symptoms

■ Frequent urination;

■ Lower back pain;

■ Breast heaviness;

■ Darkened areolas.

Section III – Appetite and mood changes

■ Nausea;

■ Appetite changes;

■ Recent weight gain;

■ Mood changes and tiredness.

An expectant woman is to experience, at a greater or lesser degree, a series of early pregnancy symptoms, some specific to pregnancy, others similar to those of pre-menstrual syndrome. Each pregnancy is different, even subsequent ones.

Here is a list of pregnancy symptoms that could signal one is expecting:

■ A delay in the appearance of the period or a light bleeding, called spotting (implantation bleeding) at around the time of the period start.

■ Pain in the lower back area, and abdominal cramping, similar to that occurring before period.

■ Tender, swollen breasts: similar or at a higher intensity than the feeling in the breasts before a period. Consecutively, the areolas will turn darker as the pregnancy continues.

■ Nausea or vomiting: morning sickness is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms, especially in the mornings or triggered by various scents or flavors.

■ Basal body temperature: a constant increased temperature for more than 2 weeks.

■ Fatigue: the increased levels of hormones are an extra effort for the body and they can also cause frequent mood swings or an increased emotional response.

■ Heightened senses: a very sensible sense of smell and taste (food-cravings or food aversions).

■ Sensitivity in the gums and teeth aches.

■ Frequent urination: these unpleasant sensations will probably increase during the pregnancy.

Tips to relieve discomfort caused by pregnancy symptoms

■ Relaxation and rest are mandatory for the expectant mother;

■ You should eat little and more often that before – try to reduce the fats;

■ Stick to foods that are refreshing – to minimize nausea;

■ Eat plenty of vitamin B6-rich foods;

■ Keep hydrated – try infusing your water with a piece of lemon or other fruit you prefer;

■ Wear comfortable, less tight clothes;

■ As pregnancy progresses, change your bra size accordingly;

■ Avoid carrying weights – not only in the gym but also when grocery shopping.

References

Wylie L. (2005) Essential anatomy and physiology in maternity care 2^nd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.

The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. (2012) The Johns Hopkins Manual of Gynecology and Obstetrics (4 ed.) Lippincott Williams & Wilkins