For those just starting out on their journey to bringing a new life into the world, it's important to know what to expect from pregnancy and the different stages it goes through.
The first stage of pregnancy is often the easiest to miss; sometimes women do not even know they are pregnant until the end of this last stage.
The first stage is referred to as the first trimester.
A woman will experience many changes in her first trimester of pregnancy due to the body adapting to the life it will hold.
Many women experience morning sickness; this is due to the high level of hormones in her system.
Sometimes morning sickness can be brought on by certain smells, and other times it seems to develop without environmental triggers.
Another major change the woman's body is undergoing is the size of the uterus.
The uterus grows very large in this first stage of pregnancy to accommodate the growth of the fetus.
Because the uterus is growing so rapidly in this first stage, frequent bathroom stops are a common result.
Back pain is also a constant problem throughout pregnancy because the fetus often rests against the spine causing pressure.
The second stage of pregnancy, or the second trimester, is often characterized by mood swings and food cravings.
While every woman and every pregnancy is different, many women experience at least sudden shifts in mood; this is due to the extreme fluctuation of hormones in her system.
Food cravings can also be present, but not every woman will experience them.
The symptoms a woman may experience will also depend heavily on her diet during pregnancy.
Eating healthy and getting the proper vitamins and nutrients will be vital to both mother and child's health during pregnancy.
Women who have a proper diet tend to have a much easier pregnancy.
It's important, however, if you're on a diet pre-pregnancy to discuss with the doctor if it's still appropriate during pregnancy.
Another thing to consider is exercise; many studies have shown that women who exercise regularly throughout pregnancy have healthier births.
The third trimester can be the happiest, anxiety-ridden, uncomfortable time of a woman's pregnancy.
Many couples become very anxious for their new little bundle of joy to arrive; mothers are often preparing the house for baby, and are as happy and anxious to meet the little one as they've ever been.
In this final stage of pregnancy it's important to try to get all of the rest and sleep possible.
It can often be very uncomfortable for mom to sleep at night; the baby has become so big, finding a comfortable position can some nights be nearly impossible.
Baby is also depleting a lot of mom's energy, so frequent naps may become very necessary.
It's important at this time to try to relax and remain as calm as possible in preparation for baby's birth.