What is pregnancy?

Pregnancy is the time during which one or more offspring develops inside a woman's womb (uterus). Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks, or nine months, from the date of the last menstrual period (LMP).

During pregnancy, a woman's body goes through many changes to support the developing baby. These changes include:

* Hormonal changes: The levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone increase during pregnancy. These hormones help to maintain the pregnancy and prepare the body for childbirth.

* Increased blood volume: The amount of blood in a woman's body increases by about 50% during pregnancy. This extra blood is needed to supply oxygen and nutrients to the baby.

* Enlarged uterus: The uterus grows and expands to accommodate the growing baby. The uterus also changes shape, becoming more round and firm.

* Changes in the breasts: The breasts begin to produce milk in preparation for breastfeeding. The breasts also become larger and heavier.

* Weight gain: Most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy. This weight gain is due to the growing baby, the increased blood volume, and the extra fluids that the body retains.

* Other changes: Other changes during pregnancy can include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, constipation, heartburn, and frequent urination.

Pregnancy is a normal process, but it can also be a challenging time for women. It is important for women to receive prenatal care throughout pregnancy to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.