Ectopic Pregnancy - A Thing of the Past

There is a new test on the forefront of identifying ectopic pregnancies.  The test is being developed by doctor's at Queen's Hospital in the UK.  The test involves a blood test that could result in earlier diagnosis of the ectopic pregnancy. 

Ectopic pregnancies is increasing.  20 years ago the rate was 1 in 200 pregnancies, today the rate is 1 in 60 pregnancies in their 30's.  Experts blame the growing trend to put off motherhood until later in life, making it more difficult for the embryo to reach the womb before it implants.

The new diagnostic test is based on testing for eight "markers" in the blood, which show up between four and six weeks into a pregnancy.

An early diagnosis will mean that patients can be treated using just an injection, rather than having to have surgery.

This new test could save lives and provide a second chance to women to have a child. 

What's In a Name

I found a website with the top Baby Names for 2007.  This is just fun to look at and look through.

Recipe for a Boy

So many people have an idea of whether they would prefer to have a boy or girl when talking about having a baby.  Searchers have found that you can increase your chances for having a boy by simply changing your breakfast habits.

Women who eat a breakfast made of high-energy foods dramatically increase their odds of getting pregnant with a boy. Fiona Mathews, of the University of Exeter, said eating high-calorie breakfasts seemed to be the best guarantee of influencing the gender of a baby in favor of boys before conception. 

The discovery of a link between calories and gender may explain why it is that in the past 40 years there has been a small but steady decline in the proportion of boys born in the developed world.

Up to 59% of women who get pregnant after eating high-energy breakfasts end up giving birth to a son.  Researchers have found only 43% of women who always skipped breakfast before conceiving managed to produce boys.

So if you are interested in trying to conceive a boy, let me suggest you stick to your "Wheaties".

 

Summer Pregnancy

With summer fast approaching I would like to just remind those of you who are pregnant or are soon to become pregnant the importance of water. 

It is very important not to let yourself get dehydrated.  A pregnant woman should drink 8 eight ounce glasses (64 ounces) of water each day.  I am certain at least one person is thinking "I will be at the bathroom every hour".  While this may be true, it is better to be in the bathroom then in the hospital.

The summer sun can drain your body of it's fluids quickly.  Plan ahead to be certain you will have enough to drink if you are going to be outside for any length of time.  Cooling your body temperature can help you to retain fluids more effectively, however it is not a solution to overcoming dehydration.

Dehydration can cause pre-term labor, miscarriage and hemoraging.  These are serious conditions that could harm the baby inside.  Some of the signs of dehydration include:

  • Dark yellow urine
  • More frequent Braxton Hicks Contractions
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin

If you begin to experience any of these symptoms you should be certain to drink more and consult your physician.  

Have a safe summer. 

Welcome To My Blog

Thank you for taking the time to review my blog.  My name is Tracy.  I am a Case Manager for Conceptual Options and have been a surrogate for four families. 

It is my intent to provide readers with positive aspects of assisted reproduction.  I plan to cover a wide spectrum of information and reference material that will assist people in understanding the process. 

I will also spend time sharing my experiences as a surrogate to educate people on the emotional side and aspects that make surrogacy so rewarding for the surrogate. 

I welcome comments and suggestions.  I would be happy to provide you with the information you want to see.