When do early pregnancy symptoms start
How many days after the act?
25-item checklist
"My period is late...could I be pregnant?"
"I feel like something's not right lately...could this be an early pregnancy symptom?"
With such mixed feelings of expectation and anxiety,
Maybe you opened this page.
Early pregnancy symptoms are
It's between 14 and 21 days after intercourse (3 weeks pregnant) which is longer than you might think.
It starts early.
However, the symptoms are similar to the onset of a cold or
It's very similar to premenstrual discomfort,
Many people are unsure whether this is really a sign of pregnancy.
In fact, early pregnancy symptoms include
There are important signs that are often overlooked.
It is something that many women tend to dismiss as "normal."
It is hidden in subtle changes in your physical condition.
In this article, under the supervision of an obstetrician-gynecologist,
We will explain in detail the early symptoms of pregnancy based on medical evidence.
From a detailed checklist of 25 items,
How to distinguish between premenstrual symptoms and
The best time to visit the hospital
Eliminate your worries,
We'll fully support you so you can take the next step with confidence.
Don't worry alone,
First, acquire the correct knowledge
Let's spend this important time in peace.
When do early pregnancy symptoms start? How many days after intercourse?
Complete explanation of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th week pregnancy timeline
A detailed schedule from the act to the discovery of pregnancy
When do early pregnancy symptoms start?
This is one of the most important pieces of information that women hoping to get pregnant want to know.
In response to the question, "How many days after the act do symptoms appear?"
I will answer based on medical evidence.
[Complete timeline from pregnancy to symptom onset]
From the day of intercourse to 3 days later: Sperm survival period
Sperm can survive inside a woman's body for up to 72 hours (3 days).
If ovulation occurs during this time, there is a chance of fertilization.
In fact, even if you have sex 2-3 days before ovulation,
Pregnancy is entirely possible.
7-14 days after act (2nd week of pregnancy): Ovulation/fertilization
For a typical 28-day cycle,
Ovulation occurs approximately 14 days after the start of menstruation.
During this time, the sperm and egg meet and a fertilized egg is born.
At this stage, no changes will be apparent in the body.
14-21 days after the act (3rd week of pregnancy): Start of implantation
This is a very important time.
The fertilized egg begins to implant in the lining of the uterus.
When implantation begins, a small amount of hCG hormone begins to be secreted.
Some sensitive women will start to notice subtle changes .
・Mild stomach discomfort
Feeling sleepier than usual
・Slight fever (around 37.0 degrees)
・Light bleeding (implantation bleeding, experienced by approximately 25% of women)
21-28 days after intercourse (4-5 weeks pregnant): Full symptoms appear
The secretion of hCG hormone begins in earnest,
Many women begin to experience early pregnancy symptoms.
This period coincides with the expected date of menstruation,
"What? My period hasn't come... and I feel strange."
The number of people who feel this way will increase dramatically.
- Late menstruation (the most obvious sign)
- The onset of morning sickness (nausea, changes in appetite)
Chest tenderness and pain
・Strong fatigue
・Changes in vaginal discharge
Why do symptoms appear at this time?
When early pregnancy symptoms appear,
There is a scientific reason for this.
Once implantation is complete,
From the chorion, which is the precursor to the placenta
The hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) begins to be secreted.
This change in the amount of hCG secreted is the direct cause of changes in physical condition.
Changes in hCG secretion:
・3 weeks pregnant: 5-50 mIU/ml (slight secretion begins)
・4th week of pregnancy: 50-400 mIU/ml (start of symptoms)
・5 weeks pregnant: 200-7,000 mIU/ml (clear symptoms)
6 weeks pregnant: 200-32,000 mIU/ml (peak of morning sickness)
In other words, from around the fourth week of pregnancy (about three weeks after intercourse)
When you start to feel symptoms,
This is because the secretion of the hCG hormone reaches a level that causes changes in your physical condition.
[Important individual differences]
However, it is also true that the onset of symptoms varies greatly from person to person.
・Early awareness type (approximately 30%) : You notice a clear change from the third week of pregnancy
・Standard type (approximately 50%) : Symptoms begin to appear around the 4th or 5th week of pregnancy
Delayed type (approximately 20%) : After the sixth week of pregnancy, or with almost no symptoms
This difference is due to individual differences in sensitivity to hormones,
This is influenced by differences in basal metabolism and stress tolerance.
It is not true that "I am not pregnant because I have no symptoms"
If your period is late, we recommend taking a pregnancy test to confirm.
In the next section,
Here's a list of 25 specific symptoms you can check for:
Self-checklist of 25 early pregnancy symptoms
Morning sickness, sleepiness, chest tightness, implantation bleeding, basal body temperature
Let's objectively assess your symptoms
Early pregnancy symptoms vary from person to person,
Here are some common symptoms that many women experience.
The more items that apply to you, the higher your chances of getting pregnant.
However, having these symptoms does not necessarily mean you are pregnant.
It is also possible to be pregnant even if you have no symptoms.
The final decision should be made by taking a pregnancy test or consulting a doctor.
[Basic changes in physical condition - 7 items]
□ My period hasn't come even though it was supposed to be (for more than a week)
□ Your basal body temperature remains in the high temperature phase (for more than 3 weeks)
□ I feel more sleepy than usual
□ Feeling fatigued or listless for no apparent reason
□ A slight fever continues (around 37.0-37.5°C)
□ Headache or heavy feeling in the head
□ I feel dizzy or lightheaded more often
[Digestive system symptoms - 6 items]
□ Feeling nauseous or nauseous (especially in the morning)
□ Changes in appetite (increase, decrease, change in tastes)
□ I have nausea and heartburn.
□ I tend to get constipated
□ I feel bloated
□ I have become sensitive to certain smells.
[Chest/Breast Changes - 4 Items]
□ My chest feels swollen and painful
□ My nipples have become sensitive or painful
□ I feel like my areola has gotten darker
□ I feel like my breasts have gotten bigger.
[Changes in vaginal discharge and bleeding - 4 items]
□ Increased vaginal discharge
□ The color of vaginal discharge has changed to whitish
□ There was a small amount of bleeding (possibly implantation bleeding)
□ The smell of vaginal discharge has changed
[Emotional and mental changes - 4 items]
□ I've become easily irritated.
□ I've become emotional and easily moved to tears.
□ I feel more anxious
□ I feel like my ability to concentrate is declining.
[Guideline for evaluation]
・15 or more items : High possibility of pregnancy
・Items 10-14 apply : Possible pregnancy
・Items 5-9 apply : Follow-up is recommended
・Four or less items : Possible normal changes in physical condition
It's not just the number of symptoms that matters,
The question is whether there are any changes that you feel are ``clearly different'' compared to your usual self.
If you are aware of your physical condition and menstrual cycle on a daily basis,
It makes it easier to notice these subtle changes.
[Detailed explanation by symptom]
🌡️ Changes in basal body temperature
During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone
Your basal body temperature will remain at a high temperature.
Normally, your body temperature drops when your period starts,
If you are pregnant, you will have a slight fever of around 37.0 degrees Celsius.
😴 Drowsiness and fatigue
Strong sleepiness in early pregnancy
This is due to the calming effects of progesterone.
This is a natural reaction to protect the baby.
"No matter how much I sleep, I feel sleepy" "I suddenly feel sleepy even during the day"
Symptoms such as:
Morning sickness (nausea and appetite changes)
A sudden increase in hCG hormone
Nausea and changes in appetite may occur.
"Foods that I used to like suddenly become unbearable"
"Certain smells make me sick"
These changes are typical early pregnancy symptoms.
💗 Breast tenderness/pain
Due to the influence of estrogen and progesterone,
Mammary gland tissue begins to develop.
It lasts longer than the breast tenderness before menstruation,
"My bra feels too tight"
"Even a light touch hurts"
Symptoms such as:
🩸 Implantation bleeding
This is minor bleeding that occurs in approximately 25% of women.
・Duration: 1-3 days
・Amount: Very small amount (just enough to mix with vaginal discharge)
・Color: Light pink to brown
Timing: Around one week before your expected period
The biggest difference from menstruation is the amount of flow.
💧 Changes in vaginal discharge
When you become pregnant, your vaginal discharge changes in the following ways:
・Amount: More than usual
・Color: Milky white to whitish
・Texture: Smooth
Smell: The sour smell becomes stronger
🧠 Emotional changes
Due to sudden changes in hormone balance,
Emotions can become difficult to control.
"I get annoyed over small things"
"Crying for no reason"
"Anxiety gets stronger"
These symptoms are common during early pregnancy.
[How to use the check results]
✅ If 15 or more items apply
Because there is a high possibility of pregnancy
Take a pregnancy test one week after your expected period.
If the test is positive, see your obstetrician-gynaecologist within two weeks.
✅ If items 10-14 apply
There is a possibility of pregnancy.
If your period is more than a week late,
We recommend you check with a pregnancy test.
✅ If items 5-9 apply
While continuing to monitor the progress,
Be sure to record your basal body temperature and pay attention to any changes in your physical condition.
✅ If there are 4 or fewer items
It's likely that this is a normal change in your physical condition,
If your period is late, consider getting tested just to be sure.
In the next section,
Distinguishing these symptoms from premenstrual symptoms
I will tell you the crucial point.
How to tell the difference between early pregnancy symptoms and premenstrual symptoms
5 key differences between menstrual syndrome and PMS
How to reliably distinguish between easily confused symptoms
"Are these premenstrual symptoms or early pregnancy symptoms?"
This is a question that many women have.
In fact, early pregnancy symptoms and PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms
They are surprisingly similar.
But if you look carefully,
There are some crucial differences.
[Point 1: Changes in basal body temperature]
This is the most reliable way to determine this.
🌡️ For premenstrual symptoms:
The high temperature period usually ends in about 12-14 days.
Your body temperature drops when your period begins.
🌡️ For early pregnancy symptoms:
The high temperature period continues for more than three weeks.
Once pregnancy is established, progesterone hormone secretion continues,
My body temperature won't go down.
If you regularly measure your basal body temperature,
This difference is clearly discernible.
[Comparison of actual body temperature patterns]
📊 Normal menstrual cycle (28 days)
・Days 1-14: Low temperature period (36.2-36.7°C)
・15th-28th: High temperature period (36.7-37.2°C)
・Day 29: Body temperature drops due to the start of menstruation
📊 When pregnancy is established
・Days 1-14: Low temperature period (36.2-36.7°C)
・15th-28th: High temperature period (36.7-37.2°C)
・From the 29th day onwards: High temperature continues (maintains around 37.0°C)
[Point 2: Duration of symptoms]
⏰ Premenstrual symptoms:
Symptoms usually subside with the start of menstruation.
Breast tenderness and abdominal pain will subside within 1-2 days of your period starting.
⏰ Early pregnancy symptoms:
Symptoms tend to persist and even get worse.
In particular, chest tightness and nausea
It continues even after your period is due.
[Comparison table of symptom duration]
| Symptoms | Premenstrual symptoms | Early pregnancy symptoms |
|------|------------|--------------|
| Breast tenderness | Improves with the start of menstruation | Continues or worsens |
| Nausea | Mild, improves with menstruation | Severe, persistent |
Abdominal pain | Relieved with the start of menstruation | Mild, persistent |
| Drowsiness | Improved with menstruation | Strong, lasts throughout the day |
| Irritability | Improved by menstruation | Continuity/fluctuations |
[Point 3: Characteristics of nausea]
🤢 Premenstrual symptoms:
Mild discomfort such as a heavy stomach
Although there is loss of appetite, there is little aversion to certain foods
🤢 Early pregnancy symptoms:
Severe nausea triggered by certain odors
Severe morning sickness symptoms when hungry in the morning
Suddenly, foods that you previously liked become intolerable
Nausea in early pregnancy may be the beginning of morning sickness.
It has more specific and lasting characteristics.
[Typical patterns of morning sickness]
Morning sickness : Feeling nauseous when you wake up hungry
✅Smell nausea : Nausea from steam from rice cookers, cosmetics, perfume, etc.
Morning sickness : Feeling unwell when hungry
✅Changes in food preferences : Sudden craving for sour foods
[Point 4: Changes in vaginal discharge]
💧 Premenstrual symptoms:
Vaginal discharge tends to decrease
Slightly more viscous
Color is transparent to slightly whitish
💧 Early pregnancy symptoms:
Increased vaginal discharge that is milky white and thin
The sour smell becomes stronger
The amount increases to 1.5-2 times the usual amount
This is due to changes in estrogen levels during pregnancy.
[Detailed comparison of changes in vaginal discharge]
**📋 Premenstrual discharge**
・Amount: Less than usual
・Color: transparent to pale white
Texture: Slightly viscous
・Smell: Almost odorless
・Duration: 2-3 days
**📋 Early pregnancy vaginal discharge**
・Quantity: Clearly increased
・Color: Milky white
・Texture: smooth
Smell: Sour smell
Duration: Continuous
[Point 5: Degree of change in appetite and taste]
🍰 Premenstrual symptoms:
A mild change such as craving sweets
"I want to eat chocolate" "I really want something sweet"
General appetite changes such as
🍰 Early pregnancy symptoms:
Suddenly, things I used to like become unacceptable
A strong aversion to certain foods
"I can't stand the smell of coffee" "I can't eat meat"
Fundamental changes in tastes, such as
Appetite changes during early pregnancy
Beyond simply "want to eat" or "don't want to eat,"
It often involves a fundamental change in tastes.
[Specific examples of appetite changes]
**🥗 Common changes during early pregnancy**
Suddenly unable to drink coffee
The smell of meat makes me sick
・I crave sour things
・My favorite sweets are too sweet for me to eat
Steam from hot food makes me nauseous
[Tips for overall evaluation]
An interesting result of the study is
The percentage of women who can accurately recognize early pregnancy symptoms
It is estimated to be around 60-70%.
That means about 30-40% of women
It is difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone.
That's why these points
It is important to make a comprehensive judgment.
[Discrimination flowchart]
**Step 1: Check your basal body temperature**
If the high temperature period continues for more than 3 weeks, there is a high possibility of pregnancy.
The high temperature period ends in 2 weeks → Possible premenstrual symptoms
**Step 2: Check for persistence of symptoms**
Symptoms continue even after the expected date of menstruation → Possibility of pregnancy
Symptoms improve with the start of menstruation → Premenstrual symptoms
**Step 3: Check for characteristic symptoms**
Sensitivity to smells and food aversions - Possible pregnancy
General poor health → Possible premenstrual symptoms
[Important Note]
These methods of determination are for reference only,
The final decision should always be based on:
✅ Pregnancy test one week after your expected period
✅ Gynecological examination
✅ Blood test to measure hCG levels
Avoid self-diagnosis based on symptoms alone.
It is important to confirm this through a thorough inspection.
In the next section,
About these symptoms
We answer frequently asked questions.
[Q&A Part 1] Why do early pregnancy symptoms vary from person to person?
When does implantation bleeding start and what is the basal body temperature?
Answers to the most common questions about early pregnancy symptoms
Q1. Are early pregnancy symptoms really that different from person to person?
A. Yes, there is a surprisingly large degree of individual variation.
Medical research has shown that early pregnancy symptoms
Some interesting data has been reported.
Approximately 30% of women experience clear symptoms from the 3rd to 4th week of pregnancy.
Approximately 50% of women experience symptoms around the 5th or 6th week of pregnancy.
Approximately 20% of women experience no noticeable symptoms after the seventh week of pregnancy or until delivery
This individual difference is due to differences in sensitivity to female hormones,
Differences in basal metabolism and stress resistance
This is because of the complex influences.
Just because you don't have symptoms doesn't mean you're not pregnant.
[Five reasons why individual differences occur]
Differences in hormone sensitivity
Even with the same hCG concentration, the severity of symptoms varies depending on the sensitivity of the receptors.
Genetics also plays a role, and children may show similar tendencies to their mothers or sisters.
💪Differences in basal metabolism
Women with high basal metabolic rates are more sensitive to hormonal changes,
Symptoms tend to be more intense.
🧘Stress tolerance
Women who are used to stress on a daily basis
It's easy to overlook changes in your physical condition as "normal."
🏃Differences in lifestyle
The more regular a woman's life is,
They tend to notice subtle changes in their physical condition.
👶Number of pregnancies
Second and subsequent pregnancies are more likely to be
They tend to notice changes in symptoms quickly.
Q2. Does implantation bleeding really exist? How can you tell the difference between it and menstruation?
A. Implantation bleeding occurs in approximately 25% of women.
Many people miss it.
Characteristics of implantation bleeding:
Duration: 1-3 days (normal menstruation is 5-7 days)
・Amount: Very small amount, just enough to be mixed with vaginal discharge
- Color: Light pink, brown (not bright red)
Timing: Around one week before your expected period
Pain: Almost none or slight discomfort
The biggest difference from menstruation is the amount of flow.
It's so small that you don't need a napkin.
It will stop completely in 2-3 days.
[Detailed mechanism of implantation bleeding]
🔬Why do I bleed?
When the fertilized egg penetrates the uterine lining,
Damage to small blood vessels can cause minor bleeding.
This is a normal part of the pregnancy process.
📊Actual experience data
・"I thought it was my period, but it stopped immediately": 60%
・"Blood in vaginal discharge": 30%
・"Light pink bleeding": 45%
・"Light bleeding for only one day": 25%
[Clear differences from menstruation]
| Topics | Implantation bleeding | Normal period |
|------|----------|------------|
| Quantity | Very small amount | Medium to large amount |
| Duration | 1-3 days | 5-7 days |
| Color | Light pink to brown | Bright red to dark red |
| Pain | Almost none | Period pain |
| Napkins | Not needed | Needed |
Q3. I haven't been measuring my basal body temperature, but is it still worth starting now?
A. It still makes sense even now!
However, the correct measurement method is important.
🌡️ Tips for measuring your basal body temperature correctly:
・Measure at the same time every morning (after waking up, before moving)
・Measure under the tongue (using a women's thermometer)
- Ensure you get at least 6 hours of sleep before the test
・ Always record the measurement values (using an app is recommended)
・Continue to grasp trends for at least three months
If you are pregnant, your blood sugar will be measured within about a week.
The high temperature period continues.
[Basal body temperature guideline]
Normal basal body temperature pattern
・Low temperature: 36.2-36.7 degrees
・High temperature: 36.7-37.2 degrees
・Temperature difference: Ideally, there should be a difference of 0.3 degrees or more
Basal body temperature during pregnancy
- The high temperature period continues for 21 days or more
・Maintain a temperature of around 37.0 degrees
・Stable without dropping
[Points to note when measuring basal body temperature]
⚠️Factors that affect measurement
・The morning after drinking alcohol (higher body temperature)
- When you have a cold or fever (accurate values will not be obtained)
・Lack of sleep (less than 4 hours)
Night shifts and irregular lifestyles
・Mouth breathing (affects sublingual temperature)
Q4. If I don't have morning sickness, does that mean there's something wrong with the baby?
A. Whether or not you have morning sickness and your baby's health
There is no direct relationship.
This is a concern that many pregnant women have.
This is a medically unfounded concern.
Morning sickness is caused by the secretion of pregnancy hormones (hCG),
It depends on your sensitivity to female hormones.
Even in pregnancies where morning sickness is mild or non-existent,
Many women give birth to healthy babies.
Medical Facts About Morning Sickness
📊Rate of morning sickness
・Pregnant women who experience morning sickness: Approximately 70-80%
・Mild morning sickness: about 40%
・Severe morning sickness: about 20-30%
・No morning sickness: About 20-30%
🔬Why I don't have morning sickness
-Low sensitivity to hCG
- Stable hormone balance
Symptoms are unlikely to occur due to physical constitution
High stress tolerance
Signs that should be of concern
⚠️See a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
Severe abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding
・Severe dizziness and fainting
Vomiting so severe that fluids cannot be ingested
・Fever (over 38 degrees)
Q5. I have early pregnancy symptoms, but the test is negative. What should I do?
A. The timing of the test may be too early.
Pregnancy tests measure the concentration of the hormone hCG in the urine.
If it exceeds a certain level, it will show a positive reaction.
However, the amount of hCG secreted varies from person to person.
There is a period during which pregnancy cannot be detected by a pregnancy test.
📅 Recommended Actions:
Re-examination after one week
If your period does not come within two weeks of the expected date, consult an obstetrician-gynecologist.
・Check whether your basal body temperature remains in the high temperature period
・Consider using early detection kits
[About early testing]
🚀What is a flying test?
Take a pregnancy test before your expected period.
If you use an early detection kit (sensitivity 25mIU/ml),
It can be used from the day of your expected period,
Still, there is no 100% certainty.
⏰Sensitivity of test kits and when to use them
・Standard test kit (50mIU/ml): 1 week after the expected date of menstruation
・Early test kit (25mIU/ml): On the day of your expected period
・Ultra-early pregnancy test kit (10mIU/ml): 3 days before the expected date of menstruation
Even if a "flying test" (a test that is too early) comes out negative,
The possibility of pregnancy cannot be ruled out.
[If you think you may be pregnant even if the test is negative]
✅ High temperature period continues for 18 days or more
✅ Your period is more than a week late
Multiple early pregnancy symptoms
✅ Maintain basal body temperature around 37.0 degrees
In such cases, please wait a while and re-examine
We recommend that you have a blood test at your obstetrician-gynaecologist.
Early pregnancy symptoms: hCG, progesterone, and estrogen
Hormonal change mechanism and medical basis
Why do these symptoms occur? Medically explained
Why does my body change so much when I'm pregnant?
It's natural to have this question.
In fact, all of the early pregnancy symptoms are
It is caused by rapid changes in three important hormones.
Understanding this mechanism,
Reduced anxiety about symptoms
This will allow for more appropriate action to be taken.
[First hormone: hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)]
hCG is also known as the "pregnancy hormone."
This is a pregnancy-specific hormone secreted by the placenta after implantation.
📈 Timing of secretion:
3 weeks pregnant: Slight secretion begins (5-50 mIU/ml)
4-5 weeks pregnant: Rapid increase (50-7,000 mIU/ml)
8-12 weeks of pregnancy: Peak (25,000-290,000 mIU/ml)
・After 16 weeks of pregnancy: Gradually decreases
🤢 Symptoms caused by hCG:
Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)
・Changes in appetite and tastes
Sensitivity to smells
・Feeling tired and fatigued
Digestive system problems
Amazing facts about hCG
🔬Why does morning sickness occur?
Recent research has shown that hCG stimulates the vomiting center in the brain,
It has also been shown to inhibit gastrointestinal motility.
This is to protect the fetus from harmful substances during the first trimester of pregnancy.
It is considered a natural defensive reaction.
📊Interesting correlations
The higher the hCG level, the more severe the morning sickness tends to be.
In twin or triplet pregnancies,
hCG levels are 2-3 times higher than in single pregnancies.
Morning sickness often becomes severe as well.
[Relationship between hCG concentration and symptoms]
| hCG concentration | Timing | Main symptoms |
|----------|------|----------|
| 5-50 | 3 weeks pregnant | No symptoms to mild discomfort |
| 50-400 | 4 weeks pregnant | Mild nausea, appetite change |
| 400-7,000 | 5 weeks pregnant | Morning sickness in full swing |
| 7,000-50,000 | Weeks 6-8 of pregnancy | Peak morning sickness |
| More than 50,000 | 8-12 weeks of pregnancy | Most severe stage |
[Second hormone: progesterone (luteal hormone)]
Progesterone acts as a "pregnancy maintenance hormone"
Your body undergoes various changes to support your pregnancy.
🔄 Main functions of progesterone:
- Maintaining the thickness of the uterine lining (maintaining pregnancy)
- Suppresses uterine muscle contractions (prevents miscarriage)
・Maintain high body temperature (increase in basal body temperature)
- Preparation for mammary gland development
- Suppression of intestinal motility (cause of constipation)
😴 Progesterone causes:
・Strong drowsiness (central nervous system depressant effect)
・Constipation (inhibition of intestinal motility)
・Breast swelling and pain (effects on mammary gland tissue)
・Irritability and emotional instability (effects on the nervous system)
・Mild fever and hot flashes (effects on the thermoregulatory center)
-Frequent urination (effects on the bladder muscle)
[Detailed mechanism of progesterone]
🧠The mechanism of sleepiness
Progesterone has a calming effect in the brain
It acts like GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).
This makes me feel sleepy no matter how much I sleep.
"I suddenly get sleepy even during the day"
You may experience strong drowsiness, which is typical of early pregnancy.
💡Actually , a reaction to protect the baby
Progesterone-induced drowsiness
Allow the mother to rest during the early stages of pregnancy,
It's a natural reaction to protect your baby.
[Changes in progesterone levels]
📈Dramatic changes due to pregnancy
・Non-pregnant: 0.2-25 ng/ml
Early pregnancy: 10-90 ng/ml (approximately a 10-fold increase)
・Middle trimester: 25-100 ng/ml
・Late pregnancy: 100-200 ng/ml
[The third hormone: estrogen (ovarian hormone)]
Estrogen is secreted even before pregnancy
Pregnancy causes a dramatic increase in production.
📊 Increased estrogen during pregnancy:
- Increased 10-100 times compared to non-pregnant
-Additional secretion from the placenta
-Continuous increase until birth
- Rapid decrease after birth
💧 Estrogen causes:
・Increased vaginal discharge and changes in its properties
・Breast changes (increase in size, pigmentation of the areola)
- Skin changes (pigmentation, preparation for stretch marks)
・Vasodilation (causes headaches and dizziness)
・Loose joints (one of the causes of lower back pain)
[Combined effects of estrogen]
🩸Effects on blood flow
Estrogen dilates blood vessels
Increases blood flow by approximately 50%.
This will:
・Headache・Dizziness
- Nosebleeds become more likely
Bleeding gums
Increased risk of varicose veins
💪Effects on connective tissue
Estrogen softens connective tissue,
It prepares the pelvis to expand for birth.
Side effects include:
・Low back pain/Pubic pain
-Joint instability
・Swelling of the legs
[Interaction of the three hormones]
These three hormones interact with each other to
It changes the mother's body into a state that is easier for the baby to grow.
🔄 Example interactions:
**hCG + progesterone**
→ Increased morning sickness symptoms
→ Stabilization of the endometrium
**Progesterone + Estrogen**
→ Promotes mammary gland development
→ Maintaining elevated basal body temperature
**Estrogen + hCG**
→ Promotes changes in vaginal discharge
→ Increased blood flow provides nutrients
[Timeline of hormonal changes]
📅Hormonal changes by week
**3 weeks pregnant**
・hCG: Start of secretion
・Progesterone: Slight increase
Estrogen: Mild increase
→ Symptoms: Almost none
**4-5 weeks pregnant**
・hCG: Rapid increase
・Progesterone: doubled
Estrogen: 3-5 times increase
→ Symptoms: Onset of morning sickness, drowsiness, breast tenderness
**6-8 weeks pregnant**
・hCG: peak reached
・Progesterone: Maintain high levels
・Estrogen: 10 times more
→ Symptoms: peak of morning sickness, systemic symptoms
**After 12 weeks of pregnancy**
・hCG: Gradually decreases
・Progesterone: produced by the placenta
Estrogen: Further increase
→ Symptoms: Morning sickness improves, and the period becomes stable
[Insights from the latest research]
🔬Scientific elucidation of individual differences
Recent research has shown that genetic polymorphisms in hormone receptors
It has been shown that symptoms vary greatly from person to person.
The same hormone concentration
The severity of symptoms depends on the sensitivity of the receptors.
The difference can be more than 10 times.
💊Application to symptom relief
By understanding this mechanism,
・Relief of morning sickness with vitamin B6
・Magnesium improves constipation
・Prevention of neural tube defects with folic acid
There are scientifically proven measures such as:
[Important Points]
Temporary discomfort may occur,
In fact, it's also a sign that your baby is growing normally.
New research shows that the severity of early pregnancy symptoms and
An inverse correlation with the risk of miscarriage has also been reported.
That is, the presence of symptoms
It's actually a sign that your pregnancy is progressing well.
You can capture it.
How to deal with early pregnancy symptoms and relieve morning sickness
Solution for drowsiness, fatigue, breast tenderness, and pain
Safe and effective doctor-recommended treatments
Early pregnancy symptoms are natural physiological phenomena.
It can be so severe that it interferes with daily life.
Here are some medically safe and effective ways to deal with it.
It is important to note that if there is a possibility of pregnancy
Avoid self-determined drug use.
Even with over-the-counter medications, you need to consider the effects on your unborn baby.
[How to deal with morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)]
Morning sickness is one of the early symptoms of pregnancy
Most women experience
It is a symptom that has a significant impact on daily life.
🍽️ Effective solutions:
Dietary Tips:
・Frequent small meals (5-6 meals a day)
- Avoid being hungry (keep crackers by your pillow)
Choose cold foods (less odor)
・Carbohydrate-based meals (bread, rice balls, udon)
・Foods containing vitamin B6 (bananas, chicken, fish)
・Drink water little by little frequently
Adjusting your living environment:
Improve ventilation to reduce odors
・Ask family members to cook or use frozen foods
Brush your teeth quickly with a small toothbrush
Choose loose-fitting clothing
Avoid strongly scented cosmetics and fabric softeners
Natural remedies:
・Ginger tea (safe and effective during pregnancy)
・Lemon scent (real lemon, not aroma)
・Shiatsu (Neiguan pressure point: inside of the wrist)
・Carbonated water (to reduce stomach discomfort)
[How to deal with morning sickness depending on the severity]
💚Mild morning sickness (can eat)
・Nutrition is based on what you can eat
・Don't overthink your nutritional balance
- Hydration is a top priority
Continue work to the extent possible
💛Moderate morning sickness (difficulty eating)
・Use of oral rehydration solution
- Replenish nutrients with jelly and ice cream
・Consult with your workplace and consider taking time off
・Actively cut corners on housework
❤️Severe morning sickness (difficult to drink fluids)
・Immediately seek medical attention
・Intravenous treatment may be required
- Consider inpatient treatment
・Diagnosis and treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum
[How to deal with strong sleepiness and fatigue]
Sleepiness in early pregnancy
It's a natural reaction caused by progesterone.
It is important to follow your body's needs without resisting.
😴 Effective solutions:
Improved sleep quality:
・Create a rhythm of going to bed early and getting up early whenever possible
- Limit naps to 30 minutes or less
- Maintain appropriate temperature and humidity in the bedroom (20-22°C, 50-60%)
・Refrain from using your smartphone before going to bed
- Create a quality sleeping environment with blackout curtains
Daytime tricks:
・Don't push yourself too hard, and rest when you can.
- Promote blood circulation with a light walk
Drink hot, caffeine-free drinks
Take frequent 15-minute breaks during work
・Be conscious of your posture when doing desk work
[Time-based approach to combating drowsiness]
🌅Morning sleepiness countermeasures
Get some sunlight as soon as you wake up
- Light stretching promotes blood circulation
Wash your face with cold water
・Eat a good breakfast
☀️ Measures against daytime sleepiness
・Short naps (15-20 minutes)
Light exercise and stretching
Ventilate to bring in fresh air
・Tell your colleagues you're pregnant and get their understanding
🌙Ensuring a good night's sleep
- Raise your body temperature by taking a bath
・Relaxing music
- Change bedding to something more comfortable
Avoid caffeine before bed
[How to deal with breast tenderness and pain]
Breast changes begin during early pregnancy.
This is a natural process that prepares the baby for breastfeeding.
💗 Effective solutions:
How to choose underwear:
Choose a soft bra without wires
- Choose breathable materials such as cotton
・Choose a size that is not too tight (about one cup size larger)
- Consider wearing a soft bra when sleeping
- Choose a bag with thick shoulder straps that puts less strain on the shoulders
Daily care:
Wash gently when showering
- Prevent dryness with moisturizing cream
Avoid sudden movements
・Lightly cool the area with a cold towel (if the pain is severe)
・Avoid massage (avoid stimulating the area)
[Response to changes in breasts]
📏 Dealing with size changes
・Measure size regularly
- Gradual increase in size
・Early introduction of maternity bras
・Consider nursing bras (late pregnancy)
🎨Dealing with changes in the areola
Pigmentation is a normal change
・There is no need to worry excessively
・Try to keep it clean
- Moisturizes and keeps skin soft
[How to deal with other symptoms]
🚽 Constipation:
Increase your fluid intake (1.5-2 liters per day)
- Eat foods high in dietary fiber (prunes, yogurt)
・Moderate exercise (walking, maternity yoga)
Maintain regular bowel habits
・Utilizing oligosaccharides and lactic acid bacteria
🤕 Headaches and dizziness:
- Adequate rest and sleep
・Stress management (relaxation)
- Eat regular meals to keep blood sugar levels stable
・Be careful of lack of water
・Neck and shoulder massage
💧 Frequent urination:
・Go to the toilet frequently without holding it in
・Pelvic floor muscle exercises
-Adjust your fluid intake before bedtime
・Keep clean to prevent cystitis
😢 Emotionally unstable:
Ask your family and partner for understanding
-Understanding normal changes that occur during pregnancy
・Relieve stress with moderate exercise
・Change your mood by doing hobbies or things you like
Counseling as needed
[Symptom relief through diet]
🥗Recommended foods by symptom
**Effective against morning sickness:**
・Ginger (ginger tea, ginger tea)
・Vitamin B6 (bananas, avocados, chicken)
・Carbohydrates (rice balls, bread, udon)
**Effective in improving constipation:**
・Dietary fiber (prune, kiwi, burdock)
・Lactic acid bacteria (yogurt, natto, kimchi)
・Oligosaccharides (honey, banana)
**Effective in reducing drowsiness and fatigue:**
・Iron (spinach, liver, hijiki seaweed)
・Vitamin C (citrus fruits, broccoli)
・Protein (eggs, fish, tofu)
When should you consult a doctor?
If you have the following symptoms:
Seek medical attention as soon as possible:
⚠️Symptoms requiring emergency medical attention
Severe vomiting that makes it impossible to drink fluids
Loss of 5% or more of your pre-pregnancy weight
・Fever (over 38 degrees)
Severe abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding
・Loss of consciousness
Symptoms for which drug therapy is considered
Morning sickness that significantly interferes with daily life
Severe headache that lasts for more than a week
- Insomnia that cannot be slept without sleeping pills
・Appearance of depressive symptoms
Early pregnancy symptoms are temporary.
Don't push yourself too hard, accept the changes in your body,
Let's get through it with the right solution.
In the next section,
If these symptoms persist
We will explain in detail when to visit the hospital.
Early pregnancy symptoms: when to visit a doctor
How to choose an obstetrician-gynecologist and prepare for the initial consultation fee
A complete guide to making your first visit to the obstetrics and gynecology clinic a success
"I think I might be pregnant, but when should I go to the hospital?"
How do I choose an obstetrician-gynaecologist?
In the first pregnancy,
Many people worry about when to visit a doctor.
In fact, if you choose the wrong time to visit the doctor,
An accurate diagnosis may not be possible.
Here, the best time to visit the doctor
Here are some tips for choosing an obstetrician-gynecologist.
[Optimal timing for consultation]
🎯 Ideal time to visit: 5-7 weeks pregnant (2-4 weeks after your expected period)
Why is this the best time?
❌ Problems before 5 weeks of pregnancy (too early for a consultation):
・The gestational sac (the bag that surrounds the baby) cannot be seen on the ultrasound.
Even if the pregnancy test is positive, it is not possible to distinguish between normal and abnormal pregnancy.
・I am often told to come back in 1-2 weeks
Possibility of unnecessary worry and stress
Double testing costs
⚠️ Risks of visiting the doctor too late after 7 weeks of pregnancy:
Possibility of delayed detection of ectopic pregnancy
・Risk of missing early signs of miscarriage
・Having a difficult time visiting the doctor after morning sickness has become severe
・Delay in receiving important guidance during the early stages of pregnancy
・Delays in issuing maternal and child health handbooks
✅ Benefits of visiting the clinic between 5-7 weeks of pregnancy:
The gestational sac can be clearly seen on an ultrasound.
・Confirming the heartbeat determines a normal pregnancy
・Early detection and response to abnormal pregnancies possible
・Receive important lifestyle guidance during the early stages of pregnancy
・Complete your medical checkup before morning sickness reaches its peak
[Specific criteria for determining when to visit a doctor]
📅 Immediate medical attention is required:
⚠️Symptoms requiring emergency medical attention
If you experience any of the following symptoms, see a doctor immediately, regardless of the time of year:
Severe lower abdominal pain (unable to stand)
Heavy bleeding (a pad fills up in an hour)
・Severe dizziness and loss of consciousness
Severe vomiting and inability to drink fluids
- Severe pain in only one side of the lower abdomen (possible ectopic pregnancy)
・Fever (over 38 degrees)
📊 Week-by-week consultation decision chart
| Pregnancy weeks | When to visit the doctor | What to check |
|----------|----------------|----------------|
| 3-4 weeks | Waiting recommended | Pregnancy test only |
| 5 weeks | Check-ups OK | Gestational sac confirmed |
| 6 weeks | Recommended consultation | Gestational sac + heartbeat confirmation |
| 7 weeks | Consultation required | Normal pregnancy confirmed |
| After 8 weeks | Risk of delay | Delay in early instruction |
[Three tips for choosing an obstetrician-gynecologist]
Choosing an obstetrician-gynecologist
This will have a major impact on your subsequent pregnancy.
Please refer to the following points:
Choose the medical facility that's best for you.
🚗 Tip 1: Prioritize location and accessibility
Regular visits to the hospital are necessary during pregnancy.
When you feel unwell due to morning sickness,
Consider visiting the hospital once your belly gets bigger.
📍 Checkpoints:
- Accessible within 30 minutes from home or work
・Easy access to public transportation
・ Parking availability (if using a car)
・Distance and route from the nearest station
・How to access in bad weather
- Emergency access at night and on holidays
In actual patient surveys,
Approximately 85% of women chose an obstetrics and gynecology clinic because of its "ease of access."
"I'm happy with my choice," he said.
🏥 Tip 2: Check the clinic's facilities and equipment
📋 Medical system to check:
・24-hour service (reassurance in case of an emergency)
・Doctor's expertise (obstetrician-gynecologist qualification)
・Midwife placement status
・Collaboration with other medical departments
・Whether or not childbirth is handled
・Can a cesarean section be performed?
🔬 Important equipment:
・4D ultrasound machine (allows you to see details of your baby)
・Availability of a NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) or collaboration with other facilities
・Operating room facilities (for Caesarean sections, etc.)
・Private rooms
・Number of parking spaces and convenience
・Whether or not there is a nursing room or kids' space
[Types and characteristics of medical institutions]
🏥General Hospital
**merit:**
・Strong collaboration with other departments
・Supports advanced medical care
- Well-equipped NICU facilities
High response ability in emergencies
**Disadvantages:**
・Long waiting times
Doctors may change
・It is difficult to make a reservation
🏨 Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic
**merit:**
・Short waiting time
・Detailed support
・New facilities
Easy to make reservations
**Disadvantages:**
・Transport to another hospital in case of emergency
・There are limits to advanced medical care
・Nighttime service is limited
👨⚕️ Tip 3: Focus on compatibility with doctors and staff
The gestation period is about 10 months.
Building a trusting relationship with doctors and staff is extremely important.
🤝 Compatibility Checkpoints:
Will they answer my questions politely?
・Is the explanation easy to understand?
・Can you help me with my anxious feelings?
- Are waiting times and consultation times appropriate?
・Is the staff friendly?
Is the atmosphere in the hospital calm?
🗣️ Examples of questions to ask at your first visit:
When do I need to make a delivery reservation?
How do I contact you in case of an emergency during pregnancy?
-What should I do if I give birth at my parents' home?
Are there any restrictions during pregnancy?
-What is the estimated cost of childbirth?
[Preparation and procedure for first visit]
📋 What to bring:
・Health insurance card
・Pregnancy test kit (used ones are OK)
・Note of the start date of your last menstrual period
- Basal body temperature chart (if you are measuring)
・Medication notebook
- Sanitary napkins (to use after the internal examination)
・Cash (not covered by insurance)
👗 Clothing Advice:
- Skirt or dress (easy for internal examination)
-Underwear that is easy to put on and take off
・Low heel shoes
・Loose-fitting clothing
-Keep accessories to a minimum
⏰ General flow of the first consultation:
**Check-in and filling out medical questionnaire (approximately 15 minutes)**
・Fill in basic information
・Confirmation of medical history and family history
・Last menstrual period date・Menstrual cycle
- Whether you wish to become pregnant
**Urine test (pregnancy confirmation)**
-Detection of hCG hormone
- Check for proteinuria and glycosuria
**Pelvic examination and ultrasound examination (10-15 minutes)**
Check the condition of the uterus
・Checking the gestational sac
・Checking the heartbeat (after 6 weeks)
-Exclusion of abnormal pregnancy
**Explanation from the doctor (approximately 10 minutes)**
・Definitive diagnosis of pregnancy
・Calculating due date
・Precautions for daily life
・Determine the next appointment date
**Next reservation/guidance**
・Regular health checkup schedule
・Information on issuing maternal and child health handbooks
・Lifestyle guidance during early pregnancy
💰 Estimated costs:
**Initial consultation fee: Approximately 8,000-15,000 yen**
(This is not covered by insurance and may vary depending on the medical institution.)
**Example breakdown:**
・Initial consultation fee: 3,000-5,000 yen
・Echocardiogram: 3,000-5,000 yen
・Urine test: 1,000-2,000 yen
・Instruction fee: 1,000-3,000 yen
[Mental preparation before your appointment]
💭 Common concerns and how to deal with them:
**"I'm scared of pelvic exams"**
This is a test required to confirm pregnancy.
Relax and follow your doctor's instructions.
**"I'm worried about the cost"**
→ You can confirm the estimate in advance by phone.
Once pregnancy is confirmed, there are subsidy programs available.
**"I'm worried about going alone"**
→ Partners and family members can also be brought along.
Please check with the clinic in advance.
The first visit can be nerve-wracking,
If you are well prepared, you will be fine.
If you have any questions,
Don't hesitate to ask questions.
The doctors and staff
We are professionals who can alleviate the anxiety of pregnant women.
When to start using pregnancy tests and how accurate they are
Positive/negative test time
How to properly interpret the results and ensure they don't fail
Pregnancy tests are a simple and reliable method of testing,
If you use it incorrectly or make a mistake in the timing,
I am not getting accurate results.
Here, we will explain everything from how the test kit works to how to use it correctly.
I will explain in detail.
[How pregnancy tests work]
Pregnancy tests measure the concentration of the hormone hCG in your urine.
hCG is a hormone that is only secreted during pregnancy.
If it is detected, it is highly likely that you are pregnant.
🔬 Detection sensitivity of common pregnancy tests:
・Standard type: hCG 50mIU/ml or more is positive
・Early test kit: hCG 25mIU/ml or more is positive
・Ultra-early test kit: hCG 10mIU/ml or more is positive
📈 Pregnancy hCG secretion progression:
・3rd week of pregnancy: 10-25 mIU/ml
・4th week of pregnancy: 65-400 mIU/ml
・5th week of pregnancy: 200-7,000 mIU/ml
・6 weeks pregnant: 200-32,000 mIU/ml
Looking at these figures,
Testing after the expected date of menstruation (around the 4th week of pregnancy)
You'll understand why it's reliable.
[Reliable determination in 5 steps]
📅 Step 1: Pick the Right Time
⏰ Best time to test:
・Standard type: One week after the expected date of menstruation
・Early test kit: After the expected date of menstruation
・Ultra-early test kit: 3 days or more before your expected period
・Test time: The first urine immediately after waking up is the best time
Why is first morning urine best?
Because fluid intake is low at night,
This is because the concentration of hCG is highest in the urine.
[When to use each type of test kit]
| Test kit type | Detection sensitivity | Usable period | Reliability |
|-------------|----------|-------------|--------|
| Standard type | 50mIU/ml | 1 week after expected period | Over 99% |
| Early detection kit | 25mIU/ml | On the day of your expected period | 90-95% |
| Ultra-early pregnancy test | 10mIU/ml | 3 days before expected period | 80-85% |
🧪 Step 2: Pre-inspection preparation
📋 Precautions the day before:
Avoid excessive fluid intake (to avoid diluting urine)
・Avoid alcohol intake
Limit your intake of diuretic drinks (coffee, tea)
Get enough sleep (at least 4 hours)
Avoid stress
🌅 Preparation for the day:
・Prepare a clean container (paper cups are OK)
・Recheck the instructions for the test kit
- Prepare a timer or clock
- Create a calm environment for the examination
- Preparation for recording the results
🔬 Step 3: Correct Inspection Procedure
💧 Direct urination method:
1. Remove the cap from the test kit
2. Pour urine into the urine collection area for 2-3 seconds
3. Replace the cap and place it on a flat surface.
4. Wait the specified time (usually 1-3 minutes)
🥤 Recommended method for collecting urine:
1. Collect your first urine in a clean container
2. Immerse the urine collection part of the test strip in urine (for about 10 seconds)
3. Remove the test strip and replace the cap.
4. Place on a flat surface and wait the specified time.
The method of collecting urine is
This is recommended as it ensures that the correct amount of urine is applied to the test strip.
[Important points in the testing procedure]
⚠️ Common mistakes and solutions
**Failure Case 1: Insufficient urine volume**
→ Apply urine until the entire urine collection area is thoroughly wet.
**Failure Case 2: Inaccurate time**
→ Always use a timer and adhere to the specified time
**Failure Case 3: The test kit is old**
→ Always check the expiration date before use
**Failure Example 4: Poor storage conditions**
→ Avoid storing in direct sunlight, high temperatures and humidity.
📊 Step 4: How to Read Your Results Correctly
🔍 Judgment line:
・Control line (C): Check whether the test drug is functioning normally.
・Test line (T): Determines whether you are pregnant or not
📋 Resulting pattern:
**✅ Positive: Both C and T lines appear**
There is a high possibility that you are pregnant
・Even if the T-line is faint, if the line is visible it is positive
・Recommended to visit an obstetrician-gynecologist one week later
**❌ Negative: Only C line appears**
Currently no pregnancy test results
Re-examination recommended after one week
If your period is more than two weeks late, see a doctor
**⚠️ Disabled: C line does not appear**
- Defective test kit or incorrect usage
・Retesting is required with a new test kit
[Important points to note when making a decision]
🕐About the judgment time
・Judgment is made within a specified time (usually 1-3 minutes)
- Lines that appear after the judgement time are invalid
- Results after 10 minutes are not reliable
💧Watch out for evaporation lines
- A thin line that appears when urine dries
- Appears after a period of time
・Different from a positive reaction
🔬Detecting thin lines
・No matter how faint the line, if it is visible, it is positive.
・The intensity of the color is related to the number of weeks of pregnancy
If in doubt, retest after a few days.
⚡ Step 5: Take appropriate action after the results
✅ If you test positive:
There is a high possibility of pregnancy, but it is not a definitive diagnosis.
・Visit an obstetrician-gynecologist within 1-2 weeks
Immediately stop drinking alcohol and smoking
- Consider starting to take folic acid supplements
Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy work
・Consult a doctor before taking medicine
❌ If the test result is negative:
Re-examination recommended after one week
If your period is more than two weeks late, see your obstetrician-gynaecologist.
・Be careful if your basal body temperature remains in the high temperature period
If early pregnancy symptoms persist, consult a doctor
[About early testing]
🚀 What is a flying test?
Take a pregnancy test before your expected period.
If you use an early test kit (sensitivity 25mIU/ml),
It can be used from the day of your expected period,
Still, there is no 100% certainty.
📊 Problems with early testing:
- High risk of false negative (negative result despite being pregnant)
Possibility of detecting a chemical pregnancy
-Causes unnecessary worry and stress
- Financial burden (multiple tests)
[Types and characteristics of test kits]
🔬Digital display type
**merit:**
・The result is clear: "Pregnant/Not Pregnant"
・No need to worry about line thickness
・Some products also display the number of weeks pregnant
**Disadvantages:**
・High price
・Risk of running out of battery
・Disposable and economical burden
📏 Line Type (General)
**merit:**
・Low price
・Simple and easy to use
・A wide variety
**Disadvantages:**
・Sometimes I get confused about the thickness of the lines.
- Judgment is subjective
-Difficult to distinguish from evaporation lines
[Common failure patterns and countermeasures]
Failure Pattern 1: Testing too early
Solution: Wait at least a week after your expected period.
Reason: hCG levels are below detection level
Failure pattern 2: Urine is too diluted
**Measures:** Use the first urine of the morning, and pay attention to the amount of fluid the previous day.
Reason: Too much fluid dilutes the hCG concentration
❌ Failure Pattern 3: Misjudging the time
Countermeasures: Use a timer and strictly adhere to the judgment time.
Reason: False positives and false negatives occur over time.
Failure Pattern 4: Problems with storage status
**Measures to take:** Check the expiration date, avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures
Reason: Accuracy decreases due to deterioration of test reagents.
[Limitations and precautions of test kits]
⚠️ What the test cannot detect:
Normal or abnormal pregnancy
Intrauterine or ectopic pregnancy
- The health of the fetus
- Identifying twins and triplets
Possibility of miscarriage
🏥 Reasons why you should see a doctor:
Pregnancy tests indicate the possibility of pregnancy,
It is not a definitive diagnosis.
Is the pregnancy normal?
How is the baby's condition?
Important information can only be confirmed by a doctor's diagnosis.
If you use pregnancy tests correctly
It gives accurate results over 99% of the time.
Don't rush, just follow the procedure and get tested.
Things to avoid in early pregnancy: Alcohol, smoking, medication
Caffeine exercise X-ray precautions
Important points that cannot be excused by ignorance
From the moment I found out I was pregnant,
Your lifestyle directly affects your baby's health.
To avoid regretting, "I did ____ without realizing I was pregnant,"
Here are five things you should absolutely avoid during your first trimester.
During early pregnancy (especially weeks 4-8),
This is the organogenesis period when the baby's important organs are formed.
The lifestyle habits of this period
Understand that it may affect your baby's life.
Take appropriate action.
1. Alcohol Consumption
🚨 Severity of impact: Most important
Alcohol crosses the placenta
It can have serious effects on the development of your baby's brain and organs.
⚠️ Risk of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS):
Intellectual developmental disorder
Growth retardation
Facial deformities
Heart disease
- Learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Behavioral disorders
📊 Important Facts:
There is no "safe amount of alcohol"
The earlier in pregnancy the greater the impact
・Beer, wine, sake, etc., any type is fine
・There is no medical evidence that "small amounts are okay"
Even a single heavy drink can have an effect
🛡️ Practical measures:
If there is a possibility of pregnancy, stop drinking immediately
- Substitute with a non-alcoholic beverage
・When eating out, check the non-alcoholic menu in advance
Ask your partner and family for their understanding and cooperation.
・The alcohol in cooking sake is not completely removed by heating.
[Mechanism of alcohol's effects in the body]
🧬Direct effects on the fetus
Alcohol is a small molecule and passes right through the placenta.
The fetus does not have the enzymes to break down alcohol,
It remains in the body for a long time and has a negative effect on cell division.
Special risks to brain development
The early stages of pregnancy are a crucial time for the development of the brain's basic structure.
Alcohol inhibits the movement and connection of nerve cells,
This can affect your ability to learn throughout your life.
2. Smoking (active smoking and passive smoking)
🚨 Severity of impact: Most important
The nicotine and carbon monoxide contained in tobacco
It reduces blood flow to the placenta,
It restricts oxygen to the baby.
📈 Specific risks of smoking:
- Miscarriage risk: 1.5-2 times increased
- Risk of premature birth: 1.4 times increased
- Low birth weight: 2-3 times increase
Placental abruption: 2-fold increase
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome): 2-3 times increase
Congenital heart disease: 1.5 times increase
💨 Dangers of passive smoking:
Smoking by partners or family members poses a similar risk.
Separation of smoking areas within the home is insufficient,
A completely smoke-free environment is required.
- Sidestream smoke contains more harmful substances than mainstream smoke
・Smoking under a ventilation fan does not completely prevent indoor contamination.
・The components of smoke that get on your clothes and hair are also harmful (third-hand smoking)
🚭 Smoking cessation support:
・Utilizing smoking cessation clinics that can be used even during pregnancy
Consult your doctor before using nicotine gum or patches
・Use smoking cessation apps and books
・Smoke-free challenge for the whole family
・Participate in a support group for people who have successfully quit smoking
[About heated tobacco and electronic cigarettes]
🔬Scientific Facts
It is a big misunderstanding that "it is safe because it does not produce smoke."
- The nicotine concentration of heated tobacco is equivalent to that of cigarettes
・The types of harmful substances are reduced, but not zero
Safety for the fetus has not been established
- Avoid use during pregnancy
3. Self-determined drug use
🚨 Severity of impact: Important
Even over-the-counter medicines
During pregnancy, the effects on the fetus must be considered.
⚠️ Drugs to be especially careful of:
**🔴Medications to avoid at all costs:**
・Aspirin (high doses, long-term use)
-NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
・Some antibiotics (tetracyclines)
・Anti-epileptic drugs (some)
- Anticoagulants (warfarin)
Vitamin A (high dose)
**🟡Medications requiring medical advice:**
- Blood pressure lowering drugs
-Diabetes medication
Antidepressants
Thyroid medication
Asthma medication
**🟢 Drugs considered relatively safe:**
・Acetaminophen (appropriate amount)
・Some antibiotics (penicillin)
・Folic acid supplements
Iron supplements
💊 Principles for safe drug use:
・Minimum use
・Follow your doctor's prescriptions and instructions
・It is dangerous to stop treatment on your own judgment.
- Consider alternative treatments
- Careful assessment of risks and benefits
4. Excessive Caffeine Consumption
🚨 Severity of impact: Medium
Caffeine crosses the placenta
It may affect the development of the fetus.
📊 Safe Caffeine Intake:
WHO recommendation: less than 300 mg per day
・Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology: Less than 200 mg per day
・Safer guideline: Less than 100 mg per day
☕ Caffeine content of some foods:
・Coffee (150ml): Approximately 90mg
・Black tea (150ml): Approx. 30mg
・Green tea (150ml): Approximately 20mg
・Oolong tea (150ml): approx. 20mg
・Chocolate (50g): Approximately 20mg
Energy drink (250ml): approx. 80mg
・Cola (350ml): approx. 35mg
⚠️ Risks of caffeine overdose:
-Increased risk of miscarriage
-Risk of low birth weight
- Fetal growth retardation
- Inhibition of maternal iron absorption
🔄 Caffeine Alternatives:
・Decaf coffee
Herbal tea (safe for pregnancy)
·barley tea
・Rooibos tea
・Hot water or carbonated water
5. Strenuous Exercise and Hard Work
🚨 Severity of impact: Medium
The first trimester is the time when the risk of miscarriage is highest.
Avoid excessive physical strain.
❌ Exercises and activities to avoid:
Intense strength training
- Exercises involving jumping and sprinting
・Contact sports (soccer, basketball, etc.)
・Sports with a high risk of falling (skiing, horse riding, etc.)
・Lifting heavy objects (over 10 kg)
・Long hours of standing work
Excessive stretching
✅ Recommended exercise:
・Light walking (20-30 minutes)
・Maternity yoga
・Underwater walking
・Light stretching
・Deep breathing・Meditation
[Other important notes]
📸 X-ray:
・X-ray examinations at dental clinics and health checkups
- Always inform your doctor in advance of the possibility of pregnancy
- Avoid during pregnancy except in emergencies
・CT and MRI scans also require consultation with a doctor
🌡️ Sauna/Hot Bath:
- Effects of elevated body temperature on the fetus
Risk of dehydration
・Dizziness and risk of falling
・Avoid long baths (under 38°C, within 15 minutes)
🐱 Contact with pets:
Toxoplasmosis from cat feces
・Ask family members to take care of your pet
・Wash your hands thoroughly after contact
Avoid getting a new pet
🍣 Raw or undercooked foods:
・Raw fish (sashimi, sushi)
·raw egg
・Insufficiently cooked meat
・Prosciutto ham and pate
・Cheese (unpasteurized)
・Raw vegetables such as bean sprouts (must be washed thoroughly)
[If you become pregnant without realizing it]
😰 Common concerns and solutions:
**"I drank alcohol without realizing I was pregnant"**
→ Stop drinking immediately when you notice
Excessive worry causes stress
Consult a doctor for proper guidance
**"I took some medicine"**
→ Record the type, amount and timing of medication
Consult your doctor for details
Don't worry too much about self-diagnosis
**"I had an X-ray taken."**
→ Check the type and timing of the test
General dental and chest X-rays have little effect
Talk to your doctor to alleviate your anxiety
[Important mindset]
Don't seek perfection too much,
The important thing is to "do your best from the moment you notice the problem."
Excessive worry and stress
It's not good for the baby.
Acquire the correct knowledge,
In consultation with a doctor,
Enjoy your pregnancy with peace of mind.
[Q&A Part 2] How to spot a phantom pregnancy and symptoms of abnormal pregnancy
Signs of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, chemical miscarriage
Anxiety Relief Guide | Expert Answers to Serious Questions
Q6. How can I tell the difference between a phantom pregnancy and a real pregnancy?
A. Phantom pregnancy (psychogenic pregnancy) is
Even though she's not actually pregnant
I believe I am pregnant.
🧠 Phantom Pregnancy Features:
・Pregnancy tests are always negative
- hCG hormone is not detected
No gestational sac was detected on ultrasound
・Symptoms are physical reactions caused by psychological factors
- Caused by a strong desire to get pregnant or stress
Symptoms of phantom pregnancy:
- Cessation of menstruation (ovulation disorder due to stress)
Morning sickness-like symptoms (psychogenic nausea)
Breast tenderness (hormonal imbalance)
- Abdominal distension (intestinal gas and relaxed abdominal muscles)
・Fetal movement sensation (mistaking intestinal movements for fetal movement)
🔍 How to tell for sure:
**Step 1: Use a pregnancy test**
- Test one week after your expected period
If the result remains negative, it may be a phantom pregnancy.
- Confirmed through multiple tests
**Step 2: Check your basal body temperature**
・True pregnancy: The high temperature period continues for more than 3 weeks
・Phantom pregnancy: Irregular or return to low temperature period
**Step 3: Doctor's Diagnosis**
・Check for the presence of a gestational sac with an ultrasound examination
・Measure hCG levels with a blood test
Check the condition of the uterus with a pelvic exam
💝 Understanding and Caring for Pseudo-Pregnancy:
Phantom pregnancy is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Strong desire to get pregnant and stress from infertility treatment,
It may be due to a previous miscarriage.
With the support of specialists and counselors,
It is important to provide psychological care.
Q7. What are the symptoms of an abnormal pregnancy (ectopic pregnancy) and how can you identify it?
A. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg develops in a location other than the uterus.
This is a condition in which the egg implants in the fallopian tube (usually in the fallopian tube).
Early detection and treatment are life-threatening,
It is important to understand the symptoms correctly.
⚠️ Typical symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy:
**🩸 Bleeding Characteristics:**
-Continued small amounts of irregular bleeding
- Color is brown to dark red
- Menstrual-like bleeding but in small amounts
- Bleeding continues for a long period of time
**🔥 Abdominal pain characteristics:**
- Pain in the lower abdomen on one side (location of the fallopian tube)
Gradually increasing pain
Severe pain that makes it difficult to walk
- Shoulder pain (irritation to the diaphragm due to internal bleeding)
**😵 Systemic symptoms:**
・Severe dizziness/lightheadedness
·cold sweat
Pale face
・Fainting/fainting
Onset and Progression:
**5-6 weeks pregnant:**
Mild lower abdominal pain
-Slight bleeding
・The pregnancy test was positive
**7-8 weeks pregnant:**
The pain gradually gets worse
- Changes in the amount of bleeding
-Increased risk of tubal rupture
**After 8 weeks of pregnancy:**
Risk of ruptured fallopian tubes
Possibility of massive internal bleeding
Emergency surgery required
🚨 Signs you need urgent medical attention:
Severe pain in the lower abdomen on one side
Shoulder pain
・Severe dizziness and fainting
Pale face and cold sweat
・Difficulty walking
If you have these symptoms,
Do not hesitate to call an ambulance.
🔬 Diagnostic Method:
・Echocardiogram (no gestational sac in the uterus)
・Blood test (changes in hCG levels)
- Pelvic examination (discrepancy between uterine size and pregnancy weeks)
・Laparoscopy (definitive diagnosis)
Q8. What is a chemical miscarriage? How should I deal with it?
A. A chemical miscarriage occurs after a pregnancy test shows a positive result.
This condition results in a miscarriage around 5-6 weeks of pregnancy.
Medically, it is called a "biochemical pregnancy."
The main cause is chromosomal abnormalities in the fertilized egg.
📋 Characteristics of a chemical pregnancy:
**🔬 Changes in test results:**
・Pregnancy test: Once positive, then negative
・hCG level: Rise and then drop sharply
・Ultrasound examination: Gestational sac cannot be confirmed
**🩸 Physical symptoms:**
- Menstrual-like bleeding (starting later than usual)
Mild to moderate lower abdominal pain
Bleeding with blood clots
-Bleeding period is somewhat long (about 7-10 days)
**⏰ Time of occurrence:**
・Around 4-6 weeks pregnant
・1-2 weeks after the expected date of menstruation
This often occurs before visiting a hospital
🧬 Causes of chemical miscarriage:
**Main cause (approximately 80%):**
・Chromosomal abnormalities
-Failure of fertilized egg development
Implantation failure
**Maternal factors:**
・Hormonal imbalance
Endometrial problems
- Immune system abnormalities
・Thrombosis tendency
**Other Factors:**
Age (increased among those aged 35 and over)
・Lifestyle habits (smoking, excessive drinking)
·stress
💭 Psychological effects and coping strategies:
A chemical pregnancy is medically
It is considered a "natural selection mechanism"
It is a deep sadness for those involved.
Psychological support:
Don't deny your sadness, accept it
・Sharing emotions with partners and family
Counseling as needed
・Cherish a positive attitude toward your next pregnancy
**Personal Care:**
Rest until the bleeding stops
・Prevent infection (maintain cleanliness)
・Nutritional balance meals
・Adequate rest
🔄 For your next pregnancy:
-Usually wait 1-2 periods before trying to get pregnant again
・Continuing folic acid supplements
・Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
・Regular gynecological examinations
Q9. What are the signs of miscarriage and how can I prevent it?
A. Miscarriage in the first trimester occurs at a rate of approximately 10-15%.
Most cases are caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
Complete prevention is difficult, but
We will tell you how to reduce the risk and how to detect it early.
⚠️ Early signs of miscarriage:
**🩸 Bleeding Characteristics:**
Start with a small amount and gradually increase
Bright red bleeding
- Accompanied by blood clots
・Continue for more than a week
**🔥Stomach pain characteristics:**
- Central pain in the lower abdomen
Menstrual-like pain
Gradually becomes stronger
May be accompanied by lower back pain
**📉 Rapid relief of pregnancy symptoms:**
Sudden improvement in morning sickness
Rapid reduction in breast tenderness
- Decrease in basal body temperature
📊 Types of miscarriage and how to deal with it:
**🟡 Threatened miscarriage (a state of being on the verge of miscarriage)**
Mild bleeding and abdominal pain
The cervix is closed
・Possibility of pregnancy continuing with bed rest
- Follow-up observation under the guidance of a doctor
**🟠 Progressive miscarriage (miscarriage in progress)**
Heavy bleeding and severe abdominal pain
The cervix is open
・Continuing pregnancy is difficult
・Emergency treatment required
**🔴 Complete Abortion (Abortion Completed)**
- Fetus and placenta are completely expelled
- Bleeding and abdominal pain are relieved
- Often no surgery is required
**🟤 Incomplete abortion (some of the embryo remains in the uterus)**
-Continued bleeding
There is a risk of infection
・Surgery required
🛡️ How to reduce your risk of miscarriage:
**Lifestyle Improvements:**
・Strictly prohibit smoking and drinking
Moderate exercise (avoid strenuous exercise)
・Stress management
Get enough sleep
・Balanced meals
**Medical prevention:**
・Folic acid supplement intake
・Regular prenatal checkups
- Appropriate management of chronic diseases
・Prevention of infectious diseases
Avoid environmental factors:
- Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals
- Minimizing radiation exposure
- Avoid high temperature environments
Q10. How do you deal with anxiety and stress during early pregnancy?
A. In addition to physical changes during early pregnancy,
It is a time of great psychological change.
Anxiety and stress are natural reactions
It can be overcome with the right approach.
😰 Common types of anxiety:
**Baby health concerns:**
・"Is it growing properly?"
・"Are there any abnormalities?"
・"Will I have a miscarriage?"
**Insecurities about your body:**
・"Symptoms are too mild/too severe"
・"There was bleeding"
・"I have pain"
**Anxiety about life changes:**
・"Can I continue working?"
・"Financial burden"
・"Changes in marital relationships"
🧘 Effective ways to deal with stress:
**Information gathering and understanding:**
・Collecting accurate medical information
Don't be swayed by uncertain information
・Actively ask questions to doctors
**Utilize your support system:**
・Sharing emotions with your partner
・Support from family and friends
・Interacting with other pregnant women
・Utilizing professional counselors
**Relaxation Techniques:**
・Deep breathing method
・Light meditation ・Mindfulness
・Maternity yoga
・Music therapy
Aromatherapy (safe during pregnancy)
**Maintaining a healthy lifestyle:**
・Regular lifestyle
・Moderate exercise
・Balanced meals
Get plenty of rest
💪 Positive Mindset:
**Focus on what you can do now:**
・Practicing healthy lifestyle habits
・Regular health checkups
・Dialogue with your baby
**Don't strive for perfection:**
Don't get too excited or upset over small changes in your physical condition
- Tell yourself "It's okay"
・Leave the parts that should be left to the professionals (doctors)
Pregnancy is a major turning point in a woman's life.
Accept that anxiety and worry are natural feelings
With the right support,
Let's cherish this special time.
How to tell your partner's family about your early pregnancy
How to create a support system for workplace reporting
How to safely share the joy of pregnancy with loved ones
When I found out I was pregnant,
When, to whom and how should you tell them?
This is a major issue that many women struggle with.
There is a risk of miscarriage, especially in the early stages of pregnancy.
You need to carefully consider when and how to communicate this.
Here, from partners to workplaces,
We will introduce the best way to communicate each one.
[Reporting to partners | Why sharing should be a top priority]
💕 Report to your partner immediately
Reporting to partners is a top priority.
When the pregnancy test came out positive,
Share it as soon as possible.
🎯 Why early reporting is important:
・Cooperation is needed to improve lifestyle habits
・Establishing a support system for emergencies
・Serving as emotional support
Start financial planning early
・Providing a non-smoking and non-alcoholic environment
・Understanding symptoms such as morning sickness
💝 Effective communication ideas:
**🎁 Surprise Performance:**
・Put a pregnancy test in a gift box
・Try placing baby items casually
・Mugs with "Dad" and "Mom" written on them
・Make your own baby photo (ultrasound style)
**📱 Simple Method:**
- Directly saying "I'm pregnant"
・Show the pregnancy app screen
- Mark your due date on the calendar
"Thank you for your hard work, I have some good news for you."
**💬 Conversation Starters:**
・"I've been feeling a bit unwell lately..."
"I heard good things about the hospital."
"Our family may grow."
🤝 Ideal and real partner reactions:
**Expected response:**
・Expression of joy
Hugs and kisses
・The words "thank you"
・Positive attitude towards future plans
**Real-life reactions:**
・I'm so surprised I can't speak
-Confirm "Really?"
-Expressing financial worries
- Take time to digest
**Important Points:**
Don't be discouraged if the response isn't what you expected.
Many men take a long time to realize they are pregnant.
Gradually, he begins to feel more aware of his role as a father.
[Reporting to family | Deciding on the timing and timing]
👨👩👧👦 How to decide when to tell your family
When to notify the family
Make your decision by considering the balance between the risk of miscarriage and the emotional support you need.
📅 Pros and cons of each season:
**🟢 Immediately after finding out you are pregnant (4-6 weeks pregnant)**
**merit:**
Get support early on
・Understanding symptoms such as morning sickness
・Establishing a contact system for emergencies
- Psychological support available
**Disadvantages:**
・It's hard to report a miscarriage
・It will cause worry
Possibility of feeling pressured
**🟡 Pre-stable period (8-11 weeks of pregnancy)**
**merit:**
・Feeling reassured after checking the heartbeat
- Support for morning sickness
・Realization after receiving the maternal and child health handbook
**Disadvantages:**
- Spending the difficult early years alone
・Support system in emergencies is delayed
**🔵 After the stable period (after 12 weeks of pregnancy)**
**merit:**
- Significantly reduced risk of miscarriage
You can report with confidence
- Plan and prepare
**Disadvantages:**
Lack of understanding of early symptoms
・There is a possibility that they will say, "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"
👥 Reporting Strategies by Family Structure:
**Informing parents (parents-in-law):**
・Report in person (if possible)
・Report by phone (if far away)
Report with a partner
If you are looking forward to the birth of a grandchild, get married early.
**Informing Siblings:**
- Adjust timing depending on the relationship
・Early consultation for those with child-rearing experience
If the ages are close, report at the same time.
**Informing grandparents:**
・Consider reporting via parents
・For elderly people, consider the burden on the heart
・If you are in a relationship where you can share joy, get married early.
💬 Effective ways to communicate with your family:
**🎌 Japanese-style considerate communication:**
・"Thanks to you" "Thankfully"
・Prefaced with "It's still early days"
・Expressing caution by saying "I'll monitor my physical condition"
・"Please watch over us warmly"
**📞 Example of a phone call report:**
"Thank you for your hard work. I actually have some good news to report.
It's still early stages, but we're expecting a baby.
The baby is due to be born around ○ month.
This is still an uncertain time, so we hope you will continue to support us."
**💌 Example of email report:**
"Thank you as always.
My husband and I are now welcoming a new member into our family.
It's still early in pregnancy and not stable yet.
I am due to give birth around month ○.
We look forward to your continued support."
[Reporting to the workplace | The importance of timing and etiquette]
💼 The best time to report to work
Reporting to the workplace is important as it will have an impact on work.
Make a comprehensive decision based on your physical condition.
📊 Reporting strategies by time period:
**🔴Cases requiring early reporting (6-8 weeks pregnant):**
Morning sickness is severe and interferes with work
-Lots of standing and heavy work
Frequent business trips and overtime work
・Workplaces that handle chemical substances or radiation
Occupations with night shifts
**🟡 Standard reporting period (10-12 weeks pregnant):**
Morning sickness is mild and does not significantly affect work
・Desk-based occupations
・Careful decision before the stable period
・When to consult about maternity leave and childcare leave plans
**🟢Reports after the stable period (after 12 weeks of pregnancy):**
- Want to minimize the risk of miscarriage
・Complicated relationships in the workplace
・Unstable employment such as contract employees
🎯 Reporting Order and Etiquette:
**Step 1: Report to your immediate supervisor**
・One-on-one individual consultation
・Formal reporting during business hours
・Due date of birth and desired time to take maternity leave
・Consultation on business succession plans
**Step 2: Report to HR**
・Confirm maternity leave and childcare leave systems
・Preparing necessary documents
・Confirm the procedure for receiving benefits
**Step 3: Report to team members**
After getting approval from your boss
・Minimize the impact on business
・Sharing succession plans
**Step 4: Report to other parties**
・Report to business partners (if necessary)
・Determining and introducing a successor
💼 Examples of workplace reports:
**Report to your supervisor:**
"Thank you for your hard work. I apologize for talking about my personal matters, but
I am now pregnant.
The expected date of birth is around ○ month ○ day.
I would like to take maternity leave,
I consulted with them.
We will proceed with the business handover etc. in a planned manner,
I look forward to your guidance."
**Report to the team:**
"I have an announcement to make to everyone.
This is a personal matter, but I have become pregnant.
I am scheduled to go on maternity leave around month ○.
Until then, we apologize for any inconvenience caused to you.
We will proceed with the transition in a planned manner.
We appreciate your continued support."
[Establishing a support system]
🤝 Key points for building an effective support system
To ensure a safe and comfortable pregnancy,
Understanding and cooperation from those around you is essential.
🏠 Support system at home:
**Partner Roles:**
・Review the division of household chores
・Carrying shopping and heavy luggage
・Meal preparation during morning sickness
・Accompanying someone to a hospital appointment
・Emergency contact system
**Family support:**
・Childcare advice from my mother and mother-in-law
・Information sharing from experienced people
・Serving as emotional support
・Backup system in case of emergency
**Support from neighbors and friends:**
・Interacting with people of the same generation who have experienced pregnancy and child-rearing
・Securing contact information in case of an emergency
・Someone to exchange information with and consult with
💼 Support at work:
**Support from your manager:**
・Adjusting workload
・Consideration of travel times
・Leaving work early or taking leave when feeling unwell
・Reassignment to less stressful work
**Support from colleagues:**
・Business coverage system
・Information sharing
- Emotional support
**Human Resources Support:**
・Detailed explanation of the system
・Procedure support
・Plans for returning to work
🌟 Characteristics of an ideal support environment:
**Understanding environment:**
・Understanding symptoms such as morning sickness
・Responding to sudden changes in physical condition
No-pressure atmosphere
**Practical Support:**
Providing concrete help
- Sharing information and advice
・Quick response in emergencies
**Continuing Relationship:**
- A good relationship that continues even after the birth
・Smooth acceptance when returning to work
・Support from a long-term perspective
Pregnancy is a major milestone in life.
Share your joy with loved ones,
With warm support,
Enjoy your pregnancy with peace of mind.
Timely reporting and
Building an effective support system
It is the foundation for a fulfilling pregnancy.
Preparations to start from the early stages of pregnancy: How to get your maternal and child health handbook
Prenatal checkup schedule and birth preparation list
A complete guide to preparing for a worry-free pregnancy
Once pregnancy is confirmed,
"What should I do next?"
It is natural to wonder:
From early pregnancy to childbirth,
There are many steps to prepare.
Here, we will introduce the following to help you live a safe pregnancy life.
Necessary procedures and preparations
I will explain in detail in chronological order.
[Issuance of the maternal and child health handbook | The official start of pregnancy]
📖 What is a maternal and child health handbook?
The Maternal and Child Health Handbook (official name: Maternal and Child Health Handbook) is
From pregnancy to childbirth and child-rearing
This is an important notebook that centrally manages your health records.
📅 Delivery period: Around 6-8 weeks of pregnancy
After receiving a confirmed pregnancy diagnosis from a doctor,
Get it delivered as soon as possible.
In many municipalities,
It will be issued on the same day you submit your pregnancy notification form.
🏢 Delivery location:
・Municipal health centers
・Health and Welfare Division of City Hall or Ward Office
・Designated public health center
・Some obstetrics and gynecology clinics (proxy delivery)
📋 Required Documents and Procedures:
**Things to bring:**
・Pregnancy notification form (doctor's certificate or pregnancy certificate)
・Identification (driver's license, health insurance card, etc.)
・Seal (required by local government)
・My Number Card (required by some local governments)
**Procedure:**
1. Submit a pregnancy notification form at the reception
2. Interview with a public health nurse (approximately 15-30 minutes)
3. Receiving your maternal and child health handbook and supplementary reading materials
4. Receiving the Prenatal Checkup Subsidy Voucher
5. Explanation of various systems
🎁 What you will receive with your maternal and child health handbook:
・Pregnant women's health checkup voucher (subsidized voucher)
・Pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing support guide
・Information pamphlets for various systems
・Maternity mark
・Local childcare support information
・Emergency contact list
[Prenatal checkup schedule | Regular health management]
🗓️ Basic schedule for prenatal checkups
Prenatal checkups are conducted to check the health of the mother and fetus.
This is an important test for early detection of abnormalities.
📊 Weekly checkup schedule:
**Early pregnancy (4-15 weeks)**
・6 weeks pregnant: First checkup (heartbeat check)
・8 weeks pregnant: 2nd checkup
・10th week of pregnancy: 3rd checkup
・12 weeks pregnant: 4th checkup
・14th week of pregnancy: 5th checkup
**→ Every 2 weeks**
**Second trimester (16-27 weeks)**
・16th week, 20th week, 24th week of pregnancy
**→ Every 4 weeks**
**Late pregnancy (after 28 weeks)**
・28 weeks, 30 weeks, 32 weeks, 34 weeks of pregnancy
**→ Every 2 weeks**
**Late pregnancy (after 36 weeks)**
・Weekly health checkup
**→ 1 week intervals**
🔬 Health checkup contents and tests:
**Basic inspection every time:**
・Weight measurement
・Blood pressure measurement
・Urine test (proteinuria, sugar, ketone bodies)
・Fundal height measurement (mid-pregnancy and later)
・Waist circumference measurement (mid-pregnancy and later)
・Fetal heartbeat confirmation
・Echo examination (ultrasound examination)
- Check for edema
**Special inspections by season:**
**🩸 Early pregnancy (8-12 weeks)**
・Blood tests (blood type, Rh factor, anemia, infectious diseases)
・Cervical cancer screening
・Rubella antibody test
・Syphilis test
・Hepatitis B test
・Hepatitis C test
・HIV testing
・HTLV-1 testing
**🧬 Second trimester (16-20 weeks)**
・AFP test (screening for congenital abnormalities)
・Detailed ultrasound examination (checking for fetal morphological abnormalities)
・Amniocentesis (for those who wish, high-risk individuals)
**🍯 Second trimester (24-28 weeks)**
・Blood glucose test (gestational diabetes screening)
・Anemia test
・Blood pressure monitoring
**🦠 Third trimester (35-37 weeks)**
・Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test
-Fetal growth assessment
- Placental function evaluation
・Pelvis measurement
💰 Medical Examination Costs and Subsidy System:
**Summary of the grant program:**
・Subsidy vouchers for 14 prenatal checkups
・Subsidy of approximately 5,000-10,000 yen per session
・Additional subsidies for ultrasound examinations
・Refund system for giving birth at home
**Actual out-of-pocket costs:**
・If it is within the subsidy: 0 yen
・If additional tests are required: Approximately 1,000-5,000 yen
・Special tests (NIPT, etc.): Full self-pay
[Preparing for life during early pregnancy]
🥗 Nutritional management and dietary review
By starting proper nutritional management from the early stages of pregnancy,
It can support the healthy development of the fetus.
💊 Important Nutrients and Supplements:
**🟢 Folic acid (most important)**
Recommended intake: 400 μg/day
- Prevention of neural tube defects
- Particularly important from before pregnancy until 12 weeks of pregnancy
・Food: spinach, broccoli, liver
**🔴 Iron**
Recommended intake: 8.5 mg/day during early pregnancy
・Prevention of anemia
・Supporting fetal development
・Food: red meat, liver, hijiki seaweed
**🟡Calcium**
Recommended intake: 650 mg/day
- Formation of fetal bones and teeth
- Maintaining maternal bone density
・Food: Dairy products, small fish, komatsuna
**🟣 Vitamin D**
Recommended intake: 8.5 μg/day
・Promotes calcium absorption
- Regulating immune function
・Food: fish, mushrooms
🚫 Foods to avoid (review):
・Raw fish and meat (sashimi, prosciutto, etc.)
・Unpasteurized cheese
·raw egg
·alcohol
・Excessive caffeine (less than 200 mg per day)
・Excessive intake of large fish (tuna, golden-eyed snapper, etc.)
👗 Preparing maternity supplies
🛍️ What you need from the beginning of pregnancy:
**Underwear:**
・Maternity bras (2-3 pieces)
・Maternity shorts (5-6 pairs)
- Maternity girdle (if needed)
**clothing:**
・Maternity wear (2-3 tops)
・Maternity pants (2-3 pairs)
・Maternity dress (1-2 pieces)
**Shoes and Accessories:**
- Low heels or flat shoes
・Maternity mark
・Belly band (from the day of the dog in the fifth month of pregnancy)
📚 Information gathering and study preparation
📖 Recommended learning resources:
**Book:**
・Basic books on pregnancy and childbirth
・Childcare books (basic edition)
・Books about baby food
- Fatherhood preparation books for partners
**App:**
・Pregnancy week management app
・Labor contraction interval measurement app
・Childcare record app
・Nutrition management app
**Classes and seminars:**
・Parent classes (held by local governments)
・Maternity yoga classes
・Childbirth preparation classes
・Breastfeeding classes
[Preparation plan for childbirth]
🏥 Considering and preparing for birth location
🎯 Birthing location options:
**General Hospital:**
High emergency response capability
・NICU fully equipped
・Collaboration with other departments is possible
・Cost: Approximately 500,000-800,000 yen
**Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialty Hospital:**
High level of expertise
・Well-equipped facilities
・Great service
・Cost: Approximately 600,000 to 1,000,000 yen
**Midwifery Clinic:**
・Focus on natural childbirth
・Homey atmosphere
・Comprehensive individual care
・Cost: Approximately 400,000-600,000 yen
📅 Birth location decision timeline:
**8-12 weeks of pregnancy:**
・Visiting candidate facilities
- Consideration of childbirth reservations
・Confirm the cost
**Pregnancy 12-16 weeks:**
・Confirmation of delivery reservation
・If you are giving birth at your parents' home, make your reservation early.
**Around 20 weeks pregnant:**
・Apply for childbirth preparation classes
・Consideration of birth plan
💰 Childbirth costs and support systems
💵 Costs of childbirth:
**Basic delivery costs:**
・Normal delivery: 400,000-800,000 yen
・Cesarean section: 600,000-1,000,000 yen (covered by insurance)
・Private room usage fee: 10,000-30,000 yen/day
・Other options: 50,000-200,000 yen
**Available support systems:**
**🎁 Lump-sum childbirth and childcare allowance (420,000 yen)**
・Payment from health insurance
・Direct payment system available
・Pay only the difference
**💰 Maternity Allowance**
・If you are an office worker
・42 days before birth and 56 days after birth
・2/3 of the standard daily remuneration
**🏠Childcare Leave Benefits**
・Payment from employment insurance
・Maximum 2 years
・50-67% of salary
**🎯Other Support**
・Local government-specific birth gift money
・Medical expenses deduction
・Child allowance (after birth)
[Long-term preparation plan]
📅 Monthly Preparation Schedule:
**2-3 months pregnant (4-11 weeks)**
✅ Visit to obstetrician/gynecologist and pregnancy confirmed
✅ Maternal and child health handbook issuance
✅ Report to your partner/family
✅ Started taking folic acid supplements
✅ Review your lifestyle habits
**4-5 months pregnant (12-19 weeks)**
✅ Report to your workplace
✅ Visit and book a birthing facility
✅ Maternity wear purchase
✅ Parent Class Application
✅ If you are giving birth at your hometown, make a reservation at the hospital in your hometown
**6-7 months pregnant (20-27 weeks)**
✅ Create a list of baby supplies
✅ Gathering information on baby products
✅ Preparation for childcare leave
✅ Consider name candidates
✅ Preparing for childbirth expenses
**8-9 months pregnant (28-35 weeks)**
✅ Purchase birth preparation items
✅ Prepare your hospital bag
✅ Creating a birth plan
✅ Preparing newborn supplies
✅ Preparing for life after giving birth
**10th month of pregnancy (after 36 weeks)**
✅ Ready for hospitalization
✅ Emergency contact confirmation
✅ Check transportation during labor
✅ Check postpartum support system
✅ Mental preparation
🌟 Finally: How to live a worry-free pregnancy
Pregnancy marks the beginning of a major life change.
Don't seek perfection too much,
If you prepare step by step you'll be fine.
If you have any questions,
To specialists such as doctors, midwives, and public health nurses
Please feel free to consult us.
Also, partners and families
Support from friends who have had the same experience
It will be a great help.
This special time,
Healthy body and mind,
And spend it with joy.
Health and happiness for you and your baby
I sincerely hope so.
🌸 Complete guide to early pregnancy symptoms 🌸
congratulations!
Thank you for reading this long article to the end.
thank you very much.
Starting with early pregnancy symptoms,
From tests, hospital visits, and preparations for daily life,
We have provided comprehensive information.
Your pregnancy life
May it be safe and happy.
If you have any questions,
Be sure to consult a doctor or midwife
Please consult a specialist.
I hope both mother and child are healthy.
I pray for you from the bottom of my heart.
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