Page 126 - 86 human physiology part-2

Pregnancy and Birth

neonate's blood and the symptoms of jaundice (yellowish skin and yellow discoloration of the whites of
the eyes) increase within 24 hours after birth. Like any other severe neonatal jaundice, there is the
possibility of acute or chronic kernicterus. Profound anemia can cause high-output heart failure, with
pallor, enlarged liver and/or spleen, generalized swelling, and respiratory distress. The prenatal
manifestations are known as hydrops fetalis; in severe forms this can include petechiae and purpura.
The infant may be stillborn or die shortly after birth.

Other Abnormalities

Physical and Genetic Defects: Physical anomalies are present at birth. Examples are; cardiac, facial
(such as cleft palate), club foot, etc. These do not always endanger the baby's life. 1-2% of babies are
born with a significant congenital abnormality. 4-6% with something relatively minor.

• Chromosomal Abnormalities: Occur when there is a problem in the baby's genetic makeup;
these include conditions such as Down syndrome. Other genetic defects, such as cystic fibrosis,
can be inherited from the parents.

Staying Healthy

Pregnancy and childbirth place great demands, it is important to keep healthy. The more healthy
and relaxed the mother is, the better it will be to cope with the demands of pregnancy. A healthy
lifestyle combines many factors:

Balanced Diet
A poor diet can cause a low birth weight. Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can cause back
problems, varicose veins, or indicate preclampsia. Advice on diet often includes to eat foods that
are high in nutritional content. Sufficient protein, vitamins, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals, as
well as fiber. Limit intake of saturated fats and sugar, and salt. Drink plenty of fluids.
Regular Exercise
Mild exercise, such as walking or swimming, is beneficial and will help cope with the workload
of pregnancy and the demands of labor. Mother's should listen to her body and stop exercising
when it tells her to. Exercise should never be painful.
Baby's Health
Smoking reduces the oxygen and nutrients passing via the placenta to the baby. Avoid alcohol to
avoid serious birth defects.

In vitro Fertilization and Artificial Implantation

An alternative when other methods of achieving contraception have failed.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a technique in which egg cells are fertilized by sperm outside the
woman's womb. IVF is a major treatment in infertility when other methods of achieving conception
have failed. The process involves hormonally controlling the ovulatory process, removing ova (eggs)
from the woman's ovaries and letting sperm fertilize them in a fluid medium. The fertilized egg
(zygote) is then transferred to the patient's uterus with the intent to establish a successful pregnancy.

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