Time Frame

• A typical pregnancy is about 38 to 40 weeks long, beginning from the first day of the woman's last menstrual cycle. The duration of labor varies widely from woman to woman and can last from a couple of hours to a few days.
  
  

Identification of Pregnancy

• A woman may be pregnant if she experiences any of the following symptoms: tender breasts, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to smells, fatigue and the absence of a menstrual cycle. A home pregnancy test can confirm a pregnancy.
  
  

Identification of Labor

• The early stages of labor can resemble indigestion and may be difficult for a woman to identify. As labor progresses, a woman feels cramping in her lower abdomen that increases in intensity and happens at regular intervals.
  
  

Considerations

• It is very important for a pregnant woman to receive prenatal care from a doctor or midwife. Regular check-ups allow health professionals to monitor the progression of the pregnancy and the health of the mother and baby.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Many women believe that if they have had a cesarean section they can never have a vaginal birth. Due to the evolution of the c-section procedure, most women are eligible for a vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC).
  
  

Fun Fact

• A baby's heart begins to beat only three weeks after conception.