>FA scans done on Saturday's
>Please phone to make a NT appointment
>Locations: Brackenfell, Mitchell's Plain and Parow
Home / Articles
Varicose Veins During Pregnancy — Causes, Relief & When to Worry Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and one of the most common is the appearance of varicose veins — enlarged blue or purple veins that often show on the legs, ankles, or vulva. While they can be uncomfortable, they are usually harmless and temporary.Why Do Varicose Veins Appear in Pregnancy?Your body produces more blood during pregnancy an...
Digestive Problems in Pregnancy Digestive problems are common in pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. They are usually caused by hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the digestive organs. 1. Why Digestive Problems Happen Hormonal changes: Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles, slowing digestion and relaxing the valve between the stomach and esophagus.• Growing uterus...
Swelling (Edema) in Pregnancy Swelling, also called edema, is a common experience during pregnancy—especially around 24–28 weeks and later. It usually affects the feet, ankles, and hands, and is caused by changes in blood volume, circulation, and hormones. 1. What Is Edema? Edema is the build-up of extra fluid in the body’s tissues, causing noticeable swelling.• Most common in the f...
Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common condition during pregnancy. It refers to pain or discomfort in the pelvic joints, usually around the front (pubic bone), hips, or lower back. It occurs because pregnancy hormones loosen ligaments and the growing uterus places extra strain on the pelvis. 1. What Is Pelvic Girdle Pain? Pain or discomfort in the pelvic joints.• Often f...
Back Pain in Pregnancy Back pain is one of the most common discomforts during pregnancy, especially from 24–28 weeks onward. It is usually caused by the growing belly, hormonal changes, and posture adjustments. While it is often normal, severe or sudden back pain should be checked by a healthcare provider. 1. Why It Happens Growing Belly & Weight Gain: As the baby grows, your center of gravity shifts ...
Increased Heart Rate in Pregnancy During pregnancy, your heart works harder to pump blood for both you and your baby. This results in an increased heart rate, which is usually normal and healthy. 1. Why Does Heart Rate Increase? Blood volume increases by 30–50% during pregnancy.• The heart must pump more blood to supply oxygen and nutrients to your baby.• This causes the heart rate (...
Baby’s Lung Development in Pregnancy By 24–28 weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s lungs are forming more air sacs (alveoli) and starting to produce surfactant, but they are still not ready for full breathing outside the womb. 1. Early Development The lungs begin forming around week 4–6 of pregnancy.• By the end of the first trimester, the basic structure is present but not yet fun...
Braxton Hicks Contractions Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, mild tightenings of the uterus. They are often called 'practice contractions' because they prepare the uterus for labor, but they are not true labor contractions. 1. When Do They Start? They may begin as early as the second trimester.• More common and noticeable in the third trimester (from around 28 weeks). 2. How Do...
Baby’s Eye Development in Pregnancy By 24–28 weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s eyes begin to open and blink. They can also detect light through the womb, which marks an important stage in the development of vision. 1. Early Development The eyes begin forming around week 4–6 of pregnancy.• By the end of the first trimester, eyelids are fully formed but remain fused shut to protec...
Baby’s Hearing Development in Pregnancy By 24–28 weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s hearing is fully functional. They can recognize your voice and other familiar sounds, even before birth. Here’s how hearing develops and why it is important. 1. Early Development The inner ear structures (cochlea and auditory nerves) begin forming by week 8–12.• By week 18–20, babies c...
