Hesperian Health Guides
Chapter 6: Pregnancy and Birth
Some people who are pregnant do not identify as women. Like anyone who is pregnant, they need good care to have healthy pregnancies and births, care that includes respect for who they are.
Anyone who is pregnant needs good health, good food, and the love and support of their family and community. Many people feel very healthy during pregnancy and do not have difficult births. Most babies are born healthy.
Yet pregnancy can also be one of the main dangers someone faces in their life. About half a million women die each year from problems of pregnancy and birth (also called maternal mortality), mostly in poorer countries. Most of these deaths could be prevented by giving everyone good care during pregnancy and birth.
How to Tell if You Are Pregnant
- Your menstrual period does not come.
- Your breasts may feel sore and grow bigger.
- You may feel sick to your stomach and sometimes vomit.
- You may have to pass urine more often.
- You may feel more tired than usual.
- You have a positive pregnancy test.
 |
 |
| Many people count the passing of 10 moons to know when a baby will be born. |
How to know when the baby is due
Add 9 months plus 7 days to the date when your last menstrual period began. Your baby will probably be born any time in the 2 weeks before or after this date.