Pregnancy is a period of up to 41 weeks in which a fetus develops inside a woman’s womb. NICHD conducts and supports research and training to help promote healthy pregnancies, with a focus on the important events that occur before, during, and after pregnancy. Pregnancy - NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child ...

Understanding the Context

Pregnancy is the term used to describe the period in which a fetus develops inside a woman's womb or uterus.Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks, or just over 9 months, as measured from the last menstrual period to delivery. Health care providers refer to three segments of pregnancy, called trimesters. The major events in each trimester are described below.1 About Pregnancy | NICHD - NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National ... Could you be pregnant?

Key Insights

The proof is in the pregnancy test. But even before you miss a period, you might suspect — or hope — that you're pregnant. Know the first signs and symptoms of pregnancy and why they occur. Other less obvious signs and symptoms of pregnancy that you might experience during ... Pregnancy | NICHD - NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute ...

Final Thoughts

Whatever your questions, understanding pregnancy as the weeks and months go by can help you make good choices throughout your pregnancy. Learn nutrition do's and don'ts. Get the basics on other healthy pregnancy issues, such as exercise, back pain and sex. The more you know about what to expect, the more prepared you'll be to face what lies ahead. If your home pregnancy test is positive, make an appointment with your healthcare professional. You also might want to try a pregnancy due date calculator.

When you're pregnant, having an idea of your due date is an important part of prenatal care.