Symptoms of Pregnancy.
First Symptom. Among the early phenomena of pregnancy many patients experience nausea and at times vomiting. This is experienced usually as soon as the patient awakes or attempts to arise from her bed. Hence it is termed 'morning sickness.' It is due to the spasmodic contractions of the stomach and diaphragm, a sympathetic disorder reflected upon the uterus. This, it is claimed, is due to our mode of living, that it is unknown in savage life. As this condition usually occurs on awakening in the morning, a little food, a cup of tea and a cracker taken before arising often relieves this uncomfortable condition. If it occurs later during the day it is often relieved if the stomach is promptly emptied. The nausea usually ceases after the fifth month when the uterus rises above the brim of the pelvis into the abdominal cavity. If it continues after the fifth month it is due to either indiscretion in diet or toxaemia. There are cases in which this condition becomes serious. Any marked vomiting should be reported to the physician and the treatment left to him. There is usually more of a nausea than actual vomiting. Very few pregnant women escape altogether digestive disturbance.
<Callout type="tip" title="Morning Sickness Relief">A small snack before getting out of bed can help alleviate morning sickness.</Callout>
Second Symptom. The cessation of the menstrual flow is usually a sign of pregnancy, although not a positive one. It is, however, of great importance where pregnancy exists in furnishing the physician with the only reliable guide for calculating the probable date of delivery.
Third Symptom. The breast enlarges and there is a pricking sensation. They are very sensitive to the pressure of clothing, and after the third month they contain a thin fluid, collostrum. is present and can be squeezed out. The nipples enlarge and have a soft feel, and the Areola becomes darker.
Fourth Symptom. The softening of the neck of the uterus. The vulva assume a purplish blue color, owing to the dilation of the veins. The abdomen changes in size and shape.
Presumptive and Probable Signs. These are presumptive and probable signs or symptoms.
Positive Symptoms. Any and all of the above symptoms may be present in uterine tumor. The only positive proofs and symptoms we have are palpitation of the fetus, fetal movements, the recognition of fetal parts and the fetal heart tones. The beating of the fetal heart can be heard about the fifth month. Faint at first but gets stronger as pregnancy advances.
These are the only positive signs of pregnancy.
Key Takeaways
- Morning sickness is a common early symptom of pregnancy, often occurring upon waking or arising from bed.
- The cessation of menstrual flow can indicate pregnancy but is not definitive proof.
- Breast and nipple changes are reliable indicators of pregnancy after the third month.
Practical Tips
- Eating small snacks before getting out of bed can help alleviate morning sickness.
- Recognizing breast changes, such as sensitivity and the presence of colostrum, is crucial for confirming pregnancy.
Warnings & Risks
- Severe or persistent vomiting should be reported to a physician immediately.
- Indiscretion in diet after the fifth month may lead to continued nausea and vomiting.
Modern Application
While some aspects of this chapter's advice are outdated, such as the claim that morning sickness is unknown among 'savages,' the identification of early pregnancy symptoms remains relevant. Modern medical practices have refined diagnostic methods but the basic understanding of these signs has not changed significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is considered a positive sign of pregnancy?
Positive signs include palpitation of the fetus, fetal movements, recognition of fetal parts, and hearing the fetal heart tones.
Q: How can morning sickness be managed?
Morning sickness can often be relieved by eating small snacks before getting out of bed or promptly emptying the stomach if it occurs later in the day.
Q: What changes occur to the breasts during pregnancy?
The breasts enlarge, become sensitive to pressure, and may contain a thin fluid called colostrum after the third month.