The 9 months of pregnancy 217
Safer sex
If you are pregnant and have sex, it is important to
avoid infection by making sure that anything put
inside your body is clean. This includes the penis
and hands. A man who is having sex with more
Condoms are a good way to prevent
than one woman must always use condoms—
infection during pregnancy.
including with his pregnant partner. Condoms are
a good way to prevent infections, HIV/AIDS, and other illnesses. See pages 189 to 192
to learn more about condoms.
Sex and early labor
If you have had a baby before, and you went into early labor, it is probably best for
you not to have vaginal sex after the 6th month. This may help prevent you from
going into labor too soon.
The 9 months of pregnancy
A pregnancy usually lasts for 9 months and is divided into 3 parts that each last
about 3 months. During each of these 3-month parts, a woman’s body goes through
many changes.
Months 1 to 3
When you first become pregnant, and the baby starts to grow, your breasts begin to
swell and may be tender. You may feel more tired than usual and also have nausea
and some vomiting. (In some places, this is called ‘morning sickness’).
Months 4 to 6
Many women enjoy the 4th, 5th, and 6th months of a pregnancy. Usually they stop
feeling sick in the stomach, stop feeling tired, and have a lot more energy. This is
also the time when the belly gets bigger, the baby starts to move, and you can hear
the baby’s heartbeat.
Months 7 to 9
This is an exciting time during your pregnancy. You will feel the baby move every
day. At the same time, your belly is getting bigger and bigger and, depending on
your disability, you may be having more difficulties or problems getting through
the day. If you experienced difficulties during the first 6 months, these may continue
and may even get worse.
During the last month, about 2 weeks before birth, the baby often drops lower in
the belly, especially first babies, and you may find it easier to breathe.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007