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OB Education & Class Registration |
Photo Tour
Pregnancy: 5-8 Weeks
Changes Your Body Will Experience
- Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Food cravings
- Breast changes
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
Comfort Measures
Nausea & Vomiting
- Avoid eating gas producing foods
- Avoid drinking liquids with meals; drink liquids one hour before or after a meal
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Try eating crackers before getting up in the morning
Dealing with Fatigue
- Take short rest breaks during the day
- Eat balanced meals
- Get 1-2 more hours of sleep at night
Breast Comfort
- Wear a supportive bra (even at night if needed)
Dizziness
- Avoid sudden changes in position
- Avoid hot stuffy rooms
- Avoid lying flat on your back
- Eat nutritious meals
Emotional Changes You May Experience
Your moods may vary from joy and elation to fear and irritability, all of which are normal. Keeping the lines of communication open between you and your partner and discussing your feelings honestly can help during this time. Sharing your feelings with sympathetic friends, especially those who have been through pregnancy, can help you work through your emotions.
Your partner may feel a bit overwhelmed at the financial responsibility a baby represents. Men often find themselves more preoccupied than usual with their jobs and household budgets while women may face work and career decisions. It's a good idea to talk about your feelings and concerns with each other and use these months to plan together. Men may also worry about what will happen to their sexual and emotional relationship. It helps when the male partner understands that fatigue, emotional changes and fear of miscarriage may lesson a woman's sexual desire in the early months of pregnancy. Massage and cuddling are tender and loving ways to communicate what you mean to each other.
Be Alert to Warning Signs
Call your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Fainting spells
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Chills or fever over 100 degrees
How Is My Baby Growing?
At the end of your second month of pregnancy, the embryo has grown to about 1 1/4 inches in length and 1/3 ounce in weight. Arms and legs have grown and the beginning of fingers and toes have started to develop.
The OB Education department at Hoag Hospital is an excellent resource for information and pre-natal classes. Hoag's BabyLine, 949/764-BABY (2229) is a community service answered by registered nurses with expertise in pregnancy, infant care, childbirth and breastfeeding. Available 7 days a week from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on weekends. The nurse answers new and expectant parents' questions and directs callers to additional resources as needed.
Prenatal classes include: Prepared Childbirth, Breastfeeding, Baby Care, Baby Saver, and Preparing for Postpartum-The 4th Trimester You should register by the end of your 3rd month of pregnancy so we can best meet your needs. Classes usually begin during your 7th month of pregnancy. The expectant mother and her partner are encouraged to attend every class. Classes are offered at several locations throughout Orange County.
The Maternity and Breastfeeding Boutique carries a comprehensive line of products including pump sales and rentals, books and nursing pillows. We offer custom nursing bra fittings by appointment.
To register for classes or for more information, call 949/764-5940 or email OBEducation@hoaghospital.org.
Things to Do Now
Make your second doctor's appointment
Go window shopping for maternity clothes
Call your insurance company if you haven't already to clarify your coverage as it relates to pregnancy and childbirth
Make a list of questions for your doctor
Start a journal about your pregnancy
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