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Definition
Left Side Pain Symptoms
Causes of Left Side Pain
When to See the Doctor
Diagnosis of Left Side Pain
Treatments for Left Side Pain
Causes of Back Pain
Back Pain Symptoms
Diagnosis of Back Pain
Treatments for Back Pain
Center

Left-side pregnancy pain

Many women experience left side pain during pregnancy. Inital pregnancy pain may be due to your body stretching to make room for your baby or digestive issues. Later pain in pregnancy could be caused by the ligaments in your abdomen stretching, kidney infection or a uniary tract infection (UTI).
Many women experience left side pain during pregnancy. Inital pregnancy pain may be due to your body stretching to make room for your baby or digestive issues. Later pain in pregnancy could be caused by the ligaments in your abdomen stretching, kidney infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Many women experience left side pain during pregnancy. Early in your pregnancy, it can be a sign that your body is stretching to make room for your baby, or it can stem from digestive issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or constipation.

Later in your pregnancy, it can be caused by the ligaments in your abdomen stretching. It can also be a sign of symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) or pelvic girdle pain (PGP), which is a condition that occurs when the ligaments supporting the pelvic bones relax due to a pregnancy hormone called relaxin.

Urinary tract infections (UTI) or kidney infections can cause pain in your left side at any point during your pregnancy. Pregnant women are more likely to develop urinary tract infections due to hormonal and structural changes during pregnancy.

Signs and symptoms of left side pain during pregnancy

Different types of left side pain that can be present in pregnancy include:

Cramping pain similar to menstrual cramps
Pressure in your pelvic area
Cramping in the left side of the lower abdomen
Pain in your pubic area
Pain in your lower back
Pain that goes down your thighs
Clicking sensation in your pelvis
Pain with urination

Causes of left side pain during pregnancy

First trimester

Left side pain in the first trimester is usually caused by normal bodily changes from pregnancy. It may also be related to digestive issues that tend to be worse during pregnancy, such as GERD. Left side pain in early pregnancy may also be caused by miscarriage. The most serious cause of left side pain in early pregnancy is an ectopic pregnancy, which needs emergency treatment. UTIs and kidney infections can cause left side pain at any point during pregnancy.
Second trimester

Round ligament pain is the most common cause of pain on either side during the second trimester. The round ligaments support the uterus. They stretch during pregnancy to accommodate your growing baby. This is a sharp pain that | s felt in the abdomen or in the hip area, on either side. Any sudden movement that makes these ligaments retract quickly can cause pain. It only lasts for a few seconds and generally gets better in the third trimester.
Third trimester

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP), sometimes called symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), can occur at any stage in pregnancy but is more common late in pregnancy. The pain may occur in your pubic bone, at approximately the level of your hips, on either side of your lower back, or in the perineum, which is the area between your vagina and anus. It may spread to your thighs as well. You may also have a grinding or clicking feeling in your pubic area. PGP is not harmful to your baby, but it can be very uncomfortable for you.
SLIDESHOW
16 Early Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy: Could You Be Pregnant? See Slideshow

When to see the doctor for left side pain during pregnancy

If you have any of the following symptoms accompanying your left side pain, you should call your doctor:

Fever or chills
Vaginal bleeding
Fainting or lightheadedness
Severe pain
Trouble moving around
Fluid leaking from the vagina
The baby moving less
Blood in bowel movements
Nausea or vomiting
Repeated diarrhea
Difficulty urinating or pain with urination

Diagnosing left side pain during pregnancy

Your doctor will take a medical history, listen to your symptoms, and do a physical exam. If necessary, your doctor may order an ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the exact cause of your left side pain. They may also order blood or urine tests to check for other issues, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Treatments for left side pain during pregnancy

Treatment for your left side pain will depend on the cause. It may include a combination of home treatments, medication, or therapy.
Normal changes of pregnancy

For left side pain that is related to normal pregnancy changes, the following may be helpful:

Don | t do any heavy lifting
Try sleeping with a pillow between your knees
Move more slowly but more often
Use a heating pad, but never for more than 10 minutes at a time
Rest more often
Do Kegel exercises
Use a maternity belt for extra support

Round ligament pain

If your left side pain is caused by round ligament pain, try some of these options:

Get extra rest
Move and change positions slowly
If you know you need to cough or sneeze, bend and flex your hips
For persistent pain, your doctor may recommend stretching exercises

Pelvic girdle pain

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) can range from mild to severe. You can try the following options for relief:

Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting
Try a heating pad or ice pack on painful areas, but don | t use a heating pad for more than 10 minutes at a time
Wear a pelvic support belt
Do kegel exercises
Sleep with a pillow between your legs
Talk to your doctor about pain relievers if the pain is severe
Talk to your doctor about physical therapy if home measures aren | t helping

Urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney infection

UTIs and kidney infections have similar symptoms, and an untreated UTI can lead to a kidney infection. If your doctor suspects one of these conditions, they may try the following treatments:

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics
You may be treated preventatively with antibiotics for recurrent UTIs
Kidney infections may require hospitalization for intravenous (IV) antibiotics

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What causes back pain in pregnancy?

Low back pain is a common problem reported during pregnancy. More than two-thirds of pregnant women experience this issue.

Back pain is usually reported by about 22 weeks into the pregnancy, although some women experience it earlier.

During pregnancy, the pain usually occurs in the lumbar region or low back, but it may radiate into the posterior thighs and buttocks for some women. The intensity and duration of low back pain varies, but one study found that about one-third of pregnant women felt low back pain was a significant problem.

Fortunately, back pain typically goes away soon after giving birth. Most women don | t experience ongoing issues. That said, there can be other reasons and causes for back pain during pregnancy that require attention from a doctor. Recognizing the common signs and symptoms of back pain in pregnancy can help you determine whether a less common cause, like an infection, may be contributing to your low back pain.

Signs and symptoms of back pain in pregnancy

For some women, low back pain may be one of the first signs that they | re pregnant. Other women may not experience this pain until later in their pregnancy. While each woman will experience a different level of pain, the most common signs and symptoms of back pain in pregnancy include:

Limited motion and stiffness in the back or legs
Increased discomfort or pain as the day goes on
Increased pain at night that makes it hard to sleep

QUESTION
The first sign of pregnancy is most often: See Answer

Causes of back pain in pregnancy

Women | s bodies undergo multiple changes throughout their pregnancy. Several of these changes can contribute to low back pain at different times.

Women who | ve experienced back pain in a previous pregnancy are likely to have back pain in future pregnancies as well. Women with chronic back pain or who have a less active lifestyle before becoming pregnant are also at increased risk of low back pain.

Other common causes of back pain during pregnancy include:
Hormone changes

Progesterone levels slowly rise from the 9th week until the 32nd week of pregnancy. This hormone relaxes the muscles and ligaments near your pelvis. Another hormone called relaxin, which is produced by the ovary and placenta during pregnancy, also impacts the joints and ligaments in your pelvis to make them more flexible for childbirth. These changes can contribute to low back pain.
Changes in the abdominal muscles

Your abdominal muscles help stabilize your spine and support your back. Pregnancy can cause these muscles to stretch and sometimes separate, called diastasis recti, due to the pressure that the growing fetus places on the abdominal muscles. The muscles become weaker as they stretch or separate, which puts the woman at increased risk of low back pain.
Posture changes

The changes in your uterus and the growing baby can change your body | s center of gravity. As a result, most women change their posture. Often, pregnant women lean backward, which can put extra strain on the back muscles, causing muscle stiffness and low back pain.

When to see a doctor for back pain in pregnancy

Discuss any low or moderate back pain at your regular doctor appointments. If you | re experiencing severe or unusual back pain, or pain that lasts for more than two weeks, you should call your doctor | s office immediately.

Severe or unusual back pain can be a sign of preterm labor or a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs can be serious, especially when pregnant, and need to be treated by your doctor. Signs of a UTI can include:

Back pain
Fever
Burning when urinating
Vaginal bleeding

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Diagnosing back pain in pregnancy

Diagnosis of back pain in pregnancy is primarily based on reported symptoms. Your doctor will take a detailed history of your symptoms and then perform a physical exam to assess how well your spinal muscles, joints, and nerves are functioning. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, are typically avoided when possible.

Treatments for back pain in pregnancy

Most women will experience some back pain in pregnancy. Fortunately, there are effective methods that can help prevent and manage the pain. Some common treatments include:
Maintain a good posture

Since your center of gravity will change as your baby grows, you | ll need to pay more attention to your posture and how you | re standing. While leaning backward is common, it can strain your back muscles. Instead, try standing and sitting up straight, using a comfortable wide stance when standing, and keeping your shoulders back and relaxed.
Wear supportive gear

To help manage low back pain, try to wear supportive, low-heeled shoes with arch support. You may want to avoid high-heeled shoes since these can cause additional changes to your center of gravity.

Some women wear a maternity support belt, but there | s limited research on its effectiveness. Talk to your doctor to see if a maternity support belt may be a good choice for you.
Sleep on your side

Try sleeping on your side, with one or both knees bent. You may also want to place a pillow behind your back for additional support.
Incorporate gentle physical activity

Talk with your medical provider about what kind of physical activity is right for you and your developing baby. If approved by your doctor, gentle regular physical activity can help you keep your back strong and prevent or minimize low back pain.
Use heat or cold packs

A hot or cold pack may help ease the pain and relax your muscles.
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Introduction to Pregnancy Symptoms
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A missed menstrual period is often the first recognizable sign of a possible pregnancy, but there are other signs and symptoms of early pregnancy as well. Some subtle signs appear in the first week, and more may be apparent in the weeks before your first missed period.

Keep in mind that not all women have all symptoms or experience them in the same way. Some of the most common first trimester pregnancy symptoms are discussed in the following slides. Read on to learn more early pregnancy signs.
Missed Period
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Breast Swelling, Tenderness, and Pain
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You may also experience light bleeding following a pelvic exam, Pap test, or after sex.

About 15% to 25% of pregnant women experience light bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy. This symptom can begin as soon as one week after conception. You may also experience light bleeding following a pelvic exam, Pap test, or after sex. This is common and usually not concerning, although if bleeding occurs later in pregnancy it can be serious.

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Pregnancy: Multiple Births, Twins, Triplets, and More

Reviewed By: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Reviewed on 11/8/2021
What Are Multiple Births?
The number of multiple births is on the rise thanks to fertility treatments.

When a woman carries more than one infant in her uterus during pregnancy, they are called "multiples." When a mom gives birth to twins, triplets, quadruplets, quintuplets, sextuplets, or even more babies, it is termed a multiple birth. The babies may be genetically identical or genetically different (fraternal). It is becoming more common for women to carry and give birth to many infants at one time due to assisted reproductive technology (ART). Multiple pregnancy also occurs naturally without the help of medical intervention.
What Are Identical Multiple Births?
Identical twins are born genetically identical.

An embryo consists of one single egg fertilized by one sperm. Sometimes, the egg splits in two, resulting in genetically identical twins. If one of these eggs splits again, triplets result. Four or more identical babies may result from eggs that split, but this is much more rare than twins or triplets. However many times an egg splits, the babies will be 100% genetically identical and will be the same gender. Approximately 3 or 4 of every 1,000 live births are identical.
What Are Fraternal Multiple Births?
Fraternal twins are siblings that are not genetically identical.

If a woman releases more than one egg per month, it is possible for multiple eggs to become fertilized at the same time. Each egg has distinct genes and is fertilized by different sperm. This results in multiples that are genetically unique, or fraternal. The babies may be different genders. They may appear as alike or dissimilar as any other genetically unique brothers and sisters. Fraternal multiples are more common than identical ones.
Is It Possible for Multiples to Have Different Dads?
It is possible for multiples to have different dads.

A woman is fertile for a certain amount of days every month. If a woman releases two or more eggs during this fertile period, the eggs may be fertilized at different times. If a woman has more than one sexual partner around the time of ovulation, it is even possible for the eggs to be fertilized by different men. Multiples may be conceived at different times by different fathers in the same pregnancy.
Communication Begins in the Womb
Parents of twin siblings notice their special bond.

Many parents of twins notice the children have unique ways of communicating with each other. They may even have their own secret language. One study of twins in utero found that by the 14th week of gestation, the infants make specific movements towards each other. The movements are intentional and not accidental. Additional studies are needed to see if the same behavior occurs with triplets, quadruplets, and other multiples.
Giving Birth to Multiples
Multiple pregnancy babies are often born via C-section.

Women who are pregnant with two or more babies may give birth via a cesarean section, or C-section. The doctor makes an incision in the lower abdomen and uterine wall to deliver the babies. Women who carry two or more infants at a time may experience more potential complications by trying to give birth vaginally. In cases in which the health of the mother or the infants is at risk, C-section birth may be necessary. Many twins and most triplets and greater numbers of multiples are born via C-section.
What Is Fertility Treatment?
Fertility drugs increase the chance of twin pregnancy and multiple pregnancy.

Fertility treatment increases the chance that a woman may conceive more than one baby at a time. Some fertility drugs increase the number of eggs released by the ovaries. More eggs mean a female has more chances to get pregnant. It also means she is more likely to get pregnant with fraternal multiples.
What Is In Vitro Fertilization?
In vitro fertilization is more popular in recent years.

This is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which a female is first given fertility drugs. Eggs are then harvested and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory procedure. The resulting embryos are then implanted within the female's uterus. Sometimes, two or more embryos are placed within the uterus to increase the chance of a successful pregnancy. With this procedure, a female may end up carrying more than one embryo if more than one implant successfully.
Do the Age and Race of the Mom Matter?
More twins are born from African-American women than from females of other races.

African-American females have twins more often than women of other races. Asian females are least likely to have twins. A little more than one-third of American females over the age of 30 have babies. Women over the age of 30 are more likely to release two or more eggs during ovulation, so older females are more likely to become pregnant with more than one baby. This is a natural phenomenon that occurs without infertility treatment. Hormonal factors are likely responsible for the effect.
Does the Height of the Mom Matter?
Tall moms have hormones that increase fertility and the chance of multiple births.

Mothers who carry more than one baby at a time are an average of 1 inch taller than moms who carry single babies. Tall women tend to have higher levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF), a hormone that may be responsible for the effect. This hormone stimulates the ovaries to release many eggs at once.
Milk Increases the Chance of Multiples
Dairy consumption increases the likelihood of multiple pregnancy.
Ovarian Stimulation

One study found that women who consumed milk and dairy products were more likely to have a multiple pregnancy than women who were vegan. Vegan females had twins at one-fifth the rate that vegetarian and omnivorous females did. The effect was especially pronounced in regions where the cattle were treated with growth hormones. Consuming dairy products from cows treated with growth hormone is supposed in the study to increase insulin-like growth factor, a hormone that stimulates the ovaries to release more eggs. However a different study concludes there is no difference in the level of hormones found in milk from treated cows compared to conventional milk.
Other Factors for Multiple Pregnancy
High BMI increases the chance of pregnancy and multiple births.

Multiple pregnancy runs in families. A woman who has a sister or mother who has fraternal twins is approximately twice as likely to have fraternal twins herself. Females who have a higher body mass index (BMI) are also more likely to have fraternal twin pregnancies. BMI is an indicator of body fat. Having a BMI that is higher than ideal is bad for your overall health.
What's the Risk of Preterm Delivery?
It is more common for multiples to be born preterm.

When a mom is pregnant with more than one baby, preterm delivery is very common. Newborns who are delivered under 37 weeks are considered preterm and likely to have low birth weight. Early delivery is a common risk of multiple pregnancy. Infants delivered at 39 or 40 weeks of gestation are considered full-term. Newborns born before 32 weeks of are more likely to suffer from long-term health problems including vision issues, hearing loss, cerebral palsy, and potentially brain damage. During pregnancy, doctors watch for signs of fetal distress and monitor for the possibility of preterm birth.
What Is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia rates are higher in females carrying more than one fetus.

Preeclampsia is a condition in which pregnant mothers develop high blood pressure and possibly vision problems, headaches, vomiting, and nausea. Any pregnant mom can develop the condition but it is more common in multiple pregnancy. The condition is treatable with medication. Preeclampsia typically goes away after delivery. Frequent and adequate prenatal care decreases the risk that mom and babies will develop complications due to preeclampsia.
Prenatal Care Is Vital
Females pregnant with multiples need special medical care.

Moms with multiple pregnancy have a higher risk of potential complications, so frequent check-ups are necessary. Fetuses are also at increased risk in multiple pregnancy. The doctor will track fetal growth and development. The physician will monitor mom's weight, blood pressure, blood sugar, and other factors. The doctor will also look for signs of early labor.

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How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids: Causes and Treatments

Reviewed By: Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

Reviewed on 1/11/2022
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are clumps of dilated (enlarged) blood vessels in the anus and lower rectum.

Do you know what a hemorrhoid is? Hemorrhoids are clumps of dilated (enlarged) blood vessels in the anus and lower rectum. The rectum is the last area of the large intestine before it exits to the anus. The anus is the end of the digestive tract where feces leaves the body.

Sometimes hemorrhoids swell when the veins enlarge and their walls become stretched, thin, and irritated by passing stool. Hemorrhoids are classified into two general categories:

internal, originating in the rectum, and
external, originating in the anus.

Hemorrhoids (also termed piles) have caused pain and irritation throughout human history. The word comes from Greek, “haimorrhoides,” meaning veins that are liable to discharge blood. If you | ve had a bout of hemorrhoid pain, you | re not alone. It | s estimated that three out of every four people will have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Even Napoleon suffered from hemorrhoids, which distracted him with severe pain during his defeat at Waterloo.
Enlarged Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Enlarged hemorrhoids are associated with symptoms such as

itching,
mucus discharge,
burning at the anus,
severe pain,
a sensation that the bowel is not really empty, and
bleeding without pain.

In this article, our medical experts will explain where hemorrhoid pain comes from, what hemorrhoids feel like, and how they are diagnosed. Then you will discover the various treatments for hemorrhoids both at home and at a hospital, along with the pros and cons of each hemorrhoid treatment.
Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids sit in the inside lining of the rectum.

Internal hemorrhoids sit in the inside lining of the rectum and are not obvious unless they are substantially enlarged. If they are greatly enlarged, they can be felt. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless and become apparent because they cause rectal bleeding with a bowel movement.

Sometimes internal hemorrhoids prolapse or protrude outside the anus. If so, you may be able to see or feel them as moist pads of skin that are pinker than the surrounding area. These fallen hemorrhoids may hurt because the anus is dense with pain-sensing nerves. Such slipped hemorrhoids usually recede into the rectum on their own. If they don't, they can be gently pushed back into place.
External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are located underneath the skin that surrounds the anus.

External hemorrhoids are located underneath the skin that surrounds the anus, and are lower than internal hemorrhoids. They can be felt when they swell, and may cause

itching,
pain, or
bleeding with a bowel movement.

If an external hemorrhoid prolapses to the outside (usually in the course of passing a stool), you can see and feel it.

Blood clots sometimes form within this type of fallen hemorrhoid, which can cause an extremely painful condition called a thrombosis. If a hemorrhoid becomes thrombosed, it can look rather frightening, turning purple or blue, and could possibly bleed.

Despite their appearance, thrombosed hemorrhoids usually are not serious, though they can be very painful. They will resolve on their own in a couple of weeks. If the pain is unbearable, your doctor or colorectal surgeon usually can remove the blood clot from the thrombosed hemorrhoid, which stops the pain.
Whom Do Hemorrhoids Affect?
Although most people think hemorrhoids are abnormal, everyone has them.

Although most people think hemorrhoids are abnormal, almost everyone has them. Hemorrhoids help control bowel movements. Hemorrhoids cause problems and can be considered abnormal or a disease only when the hemorrhoidal clumps of vessels enlarge.

Hemorrhoids occur in almost everyone, and an estimated 75% of people will experience enlarged hemorrhoids at some point. However only about 4% will go to a doctor because of hemorrhoid problems. Hemorrhoids that cause problems are found equally in men and women, and their prevalence peaks between 45 and 65 years of age.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are caused by swelling in the anal or rectal veins.

Hemorrhoids are caused by swelling in the anal or rectal veins. This makes hemorrhoids susceptible to irritation.

This swelling can be caused by several things, including

obesity,
pregnancy,
standing or sitting for long periods,
straining on the toilet,
chronic constipation or diarrhea,
eating a low-fiber diet,
coughing,
sneezing,
vomiting, and
holding your breath while straining to do physical labor.

How Do Foods Influence Hemorrhoids? Diet
People who consistently eat a high-fiber diet are less likely to get hemorrhoids.

Diet is believed to have a big impact in causing—and preventing—hemorrhoids. People who consistently eat a high-fiber diet are less likely to get hemorrhoids, while those people who prefer a diet high in processed foods face a higher hemorrhoid risk.

A low-fiber diet can leave you constipated, which can contribute to hemorrhoids in two way. For one, it promotes straining on the toilet. It also aggravates the hemorrhoids by producing hard stools that further irritate the swollen veins.
Painless Bleeding
The most common hemorrhoids symptom is painless bleeding.

The most common hemorrhoids symptom is painless bleeding. A hemorrhoid sufferer may notice bright red blood on the outside of the stools, on the toilet paper, or dripping into the toilet.

The bleeding usually resolves itself without treatment. Nevertheless, rectal bleeding with a bowel movement is never normal and should prompt a visit to a health care professional. While hemorrhoids are the most common cause of bleeding with a bowel movement, there may be other reasons for bleeding, including the following:

inflammatory bowel disease,
blood clotting problems,
fistulas and/or fissures (abnormal passages between a hollow organ and body surface)
infection, and
tumors.

Severe Hemorrhoids vs. Mild Hemorrhoids: Stages
Many physicians use a grading system to categorize hemorrhoids along four stages.

Do you know the stages of hemorrhoids? Many physicians use a grading system to categorize hemorrhoids along four stages:

First-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that bleed, but do not prolapse. These are slightly enlarged hemorrhoids, but they do not protrude outside the anus.
Second-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and retract on their own (with or without bleeding). These may come out of the anus during certain activities like passing stool, and then return back inside the body.
Third-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and must be pushed back in by a finger.
Fourth-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and cannot be pushed back in the anal canal. Fourth-degree hemorrhoids also include hemorrhoids that are thrombosed (containing blood clots) or that pull much of the lining of the rectum through the anus.

Symptoms of Prolapsed Internal Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids prolapse when their blood vessels swell and extend from their location in the rectum through the anus.

Hemorrhoids prolapse when their blood vessels swell and extend from their location in the rectum through the anus. In your anal canal, your hemorrhoid is exposed to the trauma of passing stool, particularly hard stools associated with constipation. The trauma can cause bleeding and sometimes pain when stool passes.

The presence of

stool,
inflammation, and
constant moisture

can lead to anal itchiness (pruritus ani), and occasionally the constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement. The prolapsing hemorrhoid usually returns into the anal canal or rectum on its own or can be pushed back inside with a finger, but falls out again with the next bowel movement.
Symptoms of Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids can be felt as bulges at the anus, but they usually cause few of the symptoms that are typical of internal hemorrhoids.

External hemorrhoids can be felt as bulges at the anus, but they usually cause few of the symptoms that are typical of internal hemorrhoids.

External hemorrhoids can cause problems, however, when blood clots inside them. This is referred to as thrombosis. Thrombosis of such a hemorrhoid causes an anal lump that is

very painful,
tender, and
often requires medical attention.

The thrombosed hemorrhoid may heal with scarring, and leave a tag of skin protruding in the anus. Occasionally, the tag is large, which can make anal hygiene (cleaning) difficult or irritate the anus. Even after such a hemorrhoid goes away, a residual skin tag may remain, and this may need to be surgically removed.
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Take to Heal?
For many people, hemorrhoidal pain returns years after treatment.

For many people, hemorrhoids last and last. Ongoing pain is especially common for people over age 50. For many people, hemorrhoidal pain returns years after treatment, and for many others the condition comes and goes, becoming more common over time.
Do Hemorrhoids Ever Go Away on Their Own?

Sometimes they do. Smaller hemorrhoids are apt to go away in just a few days. It | s a good idea during this time to avoid further irritating your rectal area by keeping the area as clean as you can.
How Can You Make Hemorrhoids Go Away?

Tougher cases of hemorrhoids may not go away on their own. After trying home remedies and over-the-counter options without success, you will need to talk to your doctor about other treatment options.
How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatments
With a history of symptoms, a physician can begin diagnosis on the basis of a careful examination of the anus and anal area.

Most individuals who have hemorrhoids discover them by either

feeling the lump of an external hemorrhoid when they wipe themselves after a bowel movement,
noting drops of blood in the toilet bowl or on the toilet paper, or
feeling a prolapsing hemorrhoid (protruding from the anus) after bowel movements.

With a history of symptoms, a physician can begin diagnosis on the basis of a careful examination of the anus and anal area. Although the physician should try his or her best to identify the hemorrhoids, it is perhaps more important to exclude other causes of hemorrhoid-like symptoms that require different treatment such as

anal fissures,
fistulae,
bowel disorders like ulcerative colitis,
blood coagulation disorders,
perianal (around the anus) skin diseases,
infections, and
tumors.

Seeing a Doctor About Hemorrhoids

Many people are embarrassed to go to their doctor about their hemorrhoid problems, which is probably why only an estimated 4% of people see the doctor even if 75% of us experience enlarged hemorrhoids at some point in time. Despite the embarrassment, hemorrhoids should always be examined professionally. Getting a medical exam will help your doctor recommend an effective treatment, and will also help to rule out more serious causes for your symptoms. When you visit your doctor, you will probably be asked to describe your symptoms. The doctor will perform an examination to see whether your anus is inflamed, and whether enlarged hemorrhoids are present.When you visit your doctor, you will probably be asked to describe your symptoms. The doctor will perform an examination to see whether your anus is inflamed, and whether enlarged hemorrhoids are present.

The doctor will want to know if you have found blood in your stool, which may prompt a bowel endoscopy examination. The doctor will likely feel for anything unusual through a digital rectal examination.

Remember that while this might be a little embarrassing and uncomfortable, hemorrhoid exams are usually painless. Also, your doctor is accustomed to caring for this sort of problem, which is very common.

If you seem to have enlarged hemorrhoids, the doctor will probably recommend a proctoscopy. During a proctoscopy, a short tube with light and a lens will be used to examine the membranes lining your rectum. This will let your doctor see the enlarged hemorrhoids and determine their size. Again, this procedure is usually painless.
Can Hemorrhoids Be a Sign of Cancer?
Hemorrhoids themselves are rarely life-threatening.

Can hemorrhoids kill you? First of all, hemorrhoids have no relationship at all to colorectal cancer; hemorrhoids themselves are rarely life-threatening. But they share some of the symptoms of more serious diseases, including some rare anal cancers. That | s why a doctor | s diagnosis is so important.
How to Cure Internal Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis
The diagnosis of an internal hemorrhoid is easy if the hemorrhoid protrudes from the anus. Otherwise a s anoscope used to a more thorough exam.

The diagnosis of an internal hemorrhoid is easy if the hemorrhoid protrudes from the anus. Although a rectal examination with a gloved finger may uncover deep hemorrhoids, the rectal examination is more helpful in excluding rare cancers that begin in the anal canal and adjacent rectum.

A more thorough examination for internal hemorrhoids is done visually using an anoscope, which is similar to a proctoscope, but smaller. If there has been bleeding, the colon above the rectal area needs to be examined to exclude other important causes of bleeding other than hemorrhoids such as

colon cancer,
polyps, and
colitis.

This is true whether or not hemorrhoids are found during anoscopy.
How Do You Treat External Hemorrhoids? Diagnosis
External hemorrhoids appear as bumps and/or dark areas surrounding the anus.

External hemorrhoids appear as bumps and/or dark areas surrounding the anus. If the lump is tender, it suggests that the hemorrhoid is thrombosed. Any lump needs to be carefully followed, however, and should not be assumed to be a hemorrhoid since there are rare cancers of the anal area that may masquerade as hemorrhoids.
Who Removes Hemorrhoids? Treatment
Treating enlarged hemorrhoids is important, because they tend to get worse over time.

Treating enlarged hemorrhoids is important, because they tend to get worse over time. Hemorrhoids are treated with a variety of measures including diet, over-the-counter medicine like

anti-inflammatory pain killers,
creams,
lotions,
gels,
pads, and
wipes,

and various treatment options are available, like

sclerotherapy,
rubber band ligation, and
surgery.

Who Removes Hemorrhoids?

Most hemorrhoid complaints begin with a trip to a family doctor. Your doctor may then refer you to a specialist: either a gastroenterologist or a proctologist (also known as a colorectal surgeon). Proctologists specialize in surgical treatments, while gastroenterologists are experts in digestive diseases.
What Should I Eat if I Have Hemorrhoids? Diet
Individuals with hemorrhoids should soften their stools by increasing the fiber in their diets.

People with hemorrhoids should soften their stools by increasing the fiber in their diets.

Fiber is found in numerous foods, including

fresh and dried fruits,
vegetables,
whole grains, and
cereals.

In general, 20 to 30 grams of fiber per day is recommended, whereas the average American diet contains less than 15 grams of fiber. Fiber supplements, like psyllium, methylcellulose, and calcium polycarbophil, also may be used to increase the intake of fiber.

Stool softeners and increased drinking of liquids also may be recommended, as well as bulk-forming laxatives. Nevertheless, the benefits of fiber, liquids, and stool softeners have not been well-tested with respect to hemorrhoidal control in scientific studies.
How to Heal Hemorrhoids: Over-the-Counter Medications
When used around the anus, ointments, creams, and gels should be applied as a thin covering.

Products used to treat hemorrhoids are available as

ointments,
creams,
gels,
suppositories,
foams, and
pads.

When used around the anus, ointments, creams, and gels should be applied as a thin covering. When applied to the anal canal, these products should be inserted with a finger or a "pile pipe." Pile pipes are most efficient when they have holes on the sides as well as at the end. Pile pipes should be lubricated with ointment prior to insertion. Suppositories or foams do not have advantages over ointments, creams, and gels.
Hemorrhoid Home Remedies: Warm Sitz Bath
A woman soaks in a sitz bath to treat her hemorrhoids.

A sitz bath refers to sitting in a few inches of warm water three times a day for 15 to 20 minutes. Taking a sitz bath may help decrease the inflammation of hemorrhoids. Drying off the anal area completely after each sitz bath is important for minimizing moisture that irritates the skin surrounding your rectal area.
Hemorrhoids Treatment: Stool Softeners
A woman shops for stool softeners to treat her hemorrhoids.

Stool softeners may help, but once hemorrhoids are present, even liquid stools may cause inflammation and infection of the anus. Your health care professional and pharmacist are good resources for discussing the use of stool softeners as hemorrhoid treatments.
Hemorrhoids Treatment: Sclerotherapy
In sclerotherapy treatment for hemorrhoids, a liquid is injected into the hemorrhoid that causes inflammation and scarring.

Sclerotherapy is one of the oldest forms of treatment for hemorrhoids. During this office-based procedure, a liquid (phenol or quinine urea) is injected into the base of the hemorrhoid.

The veins thrombose, inflammation sets in, and ultimately scarring takes place. Sclerotherapy causes the hemorrhoid to shrink. Pain may occur after sclerotherapy, but usually subsides by the following day. Symptoms of hemorrhoids frequently return after several years and may require further treatment.
Hemorrhoids Treatment: Rubber Band Ligation
In rubber band ligation, a rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid inside the rectum. The band cuts off circulation, and the hemorrhoid withers away within a few days.

The principle of rubber band ligation is to encircle the base of the hemorrhoidal clump with a tight rubber band. The tissue cut off by the rubber band dies, and is replaced by an ulcer that heals with scarring.

A similar procedure was described in 460 BC by the Greek physician Hippocrates:

“And hemorrhoids … you may treat by transfixing them with a needle and tying them with very thick and woolen thread, for application, and do not foment until they drop off, and always leave one behind; and when the patient recovers, let him be put on a course of Hellebore.”

Rubber band ligation can be used with first-, second-, and third-degree hemorrhoids, and may be more effective than sclerotherapy. Symptoms frequently recur several years later, but usually can be treated with further ligation.

The most common complication of ligation is pain. However, bleeding one or two weeks after ligation or bacterial infection in the tissues surrounding the hemorrhoids (cellulitis) may occur.
Doppler-Guided Artery Ligation
Another minimally-invasive treatment for hemorrhoids is found in Doppler-guided artery ligation.

Another minimally-invasive treatment for hemorrhoids is found in Doppler-guided artery ligation. Instead of removing the hemorrhoids themselves, artery ligation cuts off their blood supply. This treatment works best for grade II-III hernias, and while it is meant to reduce postoperative pain, 20% of patients still report pain after the procedure, particularly when pooping.
Hemorrhoid Treatment: Heat Coagulation
Electrocoagulation treatment for hemorrhoids.

There are several treatments that use heat to destroy hemorrhoidal tissue, and promote inflammation and scarring, including

bipolar diathermy,
direct-current electrotherapy, and
infrared photocoagulation.

Such procedures destroy the tissues in and around the hemorrhoids and cause scar tissue to form. They are used with first-, second-, and third-degree hemorrhoids. Pain is frequent, though probably less frequent than with ligation, and bleeding occasionally occurs. Other methods such as laser and radiowave ablation have been done. Non-surgical treatments are usually done on hemorrhoids graded I to II and some grade III; you should discuss the treatment and its projected outcome and recurrence rates with your doctor.
Hemorrhoids: Surgery
Surgical removal of hemorrhoids known as a hemorrhoidectomy and a stapled hemorrhoidectomy is reserved for patients with third- or fourth-degree hemorrhoids.

The vast majority of people can manage their symptom-causing hemorrhoids with non-surgical techniques. Non-operative treatment is preferred because it is associated with less pain and fewer complications than operative treatment. It is estimated that fewer than 10% of patients require surgery if the hemorrhoids are treated early.

Surgical removal of hemorrhoids, known as a hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidectomy, is reserved for patients with third- or fourth-degree hemorrhoids.
History of Hemorrhoid Surgeries

Surgery for hemorrhoids dates back to ancient times. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Indians all described surgeries used to alleviate the pain and discomfort of enlarged hemorrhoids. These procedures improved greatly by the 13th century, and surgical treatments accelerated once again in the 19th century.
Getting Rid of Hemorrhoids: Excisional Hemorrhoidectomy
Examples of an open and closed hemorrhoidectomy.

During an excisional hemorrhoidectomy, the internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids are cut out. The wounds left by the removal may be sutured (stitched) together (closed technique) or left open (open technique). The results with both techniques are similar.

A proctoplasty may also be performed. This procedure extends the removal of tissue higher into the anus so that redundant or prolapsing anal lining is also removed. Postoperative pain is a major problem with hemorrhoidectomy, and potent pain medications (narcotics) are usually required.
Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy (“Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy”)
Illustrations show the steps in performing a stapled hemorrhoidectomy.

The stapled hemorrhoidectomy (“stapled hemorrhoidopexy”) is a newer surgical technique that is rapidly becoming the treatment of choice for third-degree hemorrhoids. This surgery does not remove the hemorrhoids, but rather the expanded hemorrhoidal supporting tissue that has allowed the hemorrhoids to slip downward.

This procedure involves several steps:

A circular, hollow tube is inserted into the anal canal and a suture (a long thread) is placed through it and woven circumferentially within the anal canal above the internal hemorrhoids.
The ends of the suture are brought out of the anus through the hollow tube.
The stapler is placed through the hollow tube and the ends of the suture are pulled, expanding the hemorrhoidal supporting tissue into the jaws of the stapler.
The hemorrhoidal cushions are pulled back up into their normal position within the anal canal.
The stapler is then fired, cutting off the circumferential ring of expanded hemorrhoidal supporting tissue trapped within the stapler.
At the same time staples bring together the upper and lower edges of the cut tissue.

Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is less painful and faster than a traditional hemorrhoidectomy. It takes approximately 30 minutes to perform.
Hemorrhoids: Prevention
Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of fluids can help you stay regular, lowering your risk of developing hemorrhoids.

The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft so they are easy to pass and don't require straining. Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of fluids (six to eight glasses each day) can help you stay regular and keep your stools soft, and may reduce constipation and the need to strain on the toilet, lowering your risk of developing new hemorrhoids.

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Stages of Pregnancy: Week by Week

Reviewed By: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Reviewed on 2/8/2022
Overview
Image of a human fetus.

How long does it take for a baby to be born? A typical pregnancy lasts 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) to the birth of the baby. It is divided into three stages, called trimesters: first trimester, second trimester, and third trimester. The fetus undergoes many changes throughout maturation.
How Soon Can You Tell If You Are Pregnant?
A missed period is often the first sign that you may be pregnant

A missed period is often the first sign that you may be pregnant, but how do you know for sure? Many women use home pregnancy tests to tell if they are pregnant; however, these tests are more likely to be accurate when used at least one week after a woman's last period. If you take the test less than 7 days before your last menstrual period, it may give you a false result. If the test is positive, it is more likely that you actually are pregnant. However, if the test is negative, there is an increased chance that the test is wrong. Your doctor can do a blood test to detect pregnancy sooner than a home pregnancy test can.
Pregnancy Weight Gain
The amount of weight a woman should gain during pregnancy depends on her body mass index (BMI) prior to becoming pregnant.

The amount of weight a woman should gain during pregnancy depends on her body mass index (BMI) prior to becoming pregnant. Women who are a normal weight should gain between 25 and 35 pounds. Women who are underweight prior to pregnancy should gain more. Women who are overweight or obese prior to pregnancy should gain less. The recommended caloric intake for a normal weight woman who exercises less than 30 minutes per week is 1,800 calories per day during the first trimester, 2,200 calories per day during the second trimester, and 2,400 calories during the third trimester.
Pregnancy Weight Gain Distribution
Women gain weight all over their bodies while they are pregnant.

Women gain weight all over their bodies while they are pregnant. Fetal weight accounts for about 7 1/2 pounds by the end of pregnancy. The placenta, which nourishes the baby, weighs about 1 1/2 pounds. The uterus weighs 2 pounds. A woman gains about 4 pounds due to increased blood volume and an additional 4 pounds due to increased fluid in the body. A woman's breasts gain 2 pounds during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby weighs 2 pounds. A woman gains about 7 pounds due to excess storage of protein, fat, and other nutrients. The combined weight from all these sources is about 30 pounds.
Pregnancy Complications
Pregnant women may experience certain complications and symptoms as the fetus grows.

Pregnant women may experience certain complications and symptoms as the fetus grows. Anemia, urinary tract infection, and mood changes may occur. An expectant mother may experience high blood pressure (preeclampsia), which increases the risk of preterm delivery and other potential dangers for the baby. Severe morning sickness or hyperemesis gravidarum causes persistent nausea and vomiting, particularly during the first 12 pregnancy weeks. This may lead to first trimester symptoms of weight loss and dehydration, requiring IV fluids and antinausea medication. Pregnant women should be aware of the possibility of developing gestational diabetes. It causes symptoms like excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination, and fatigue. Obesity and excessive weight gain are possible, especially as the pregnancy progresses. Women are supposed to gain weight during pregnancy, but excessive weight gain may be associated with symptoms that put mother and baby at risk. Ask your doctor how much weight you should gain during your pregnancy.
The Three Stages of Pregnancy
(1st, 2nd, and 3rd Trimester)
Illustration examples of the first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy.

Conception to about the 12th week of pregnancy marks the first trimester. The second trimester is weeks 13 to 27, and the third trimester starts about 28 weeks and lasts until birth. This slide show will discuss what occurs to both the mother and baby during each trimester.
First Trimester
First Trimester

First Trimester: Week 1 (conception) – Week 12
First Trimester: Early Changes in a Woman's Body
A woman with a home pregnancy test examines her stomach in the mirror.

The early changes that signify pregnancy become present in the first trimester. A missed period may be the first sign that fertilization and implantation have occurred, ovulation has ceased, and you are pregnant. Other changes will also occur.
First Trimester: Physical and Emotional Changes a Woman May Experience
An exhausted woman (top left), woman with morning sickness (top right), woman eating a pickle with ice cream (bottom left), and woman weighing herself (bottom right).

Hormonal changes will affect almost every organ in the body. Some signs of early pregnancy in many women include symptoms like:

Extreme fatigue
Tender, swollen breasts. Nipples may protrude.
Nausea with or without throwing up (morning sickness)
Cravings or aversion to certain foods
Mood swings
Constipation
Frequent urination
Headache
Heartburn
Weight gain or loss

First Trimester: Changes in a Woman's Daily Routine
A pregnant mom letting her son touch her belly.

Some of the changes you experience in your first trimester may cause you to revise your daily routine. You may need to go to bed earlier or eat more frequent or smaller meals. Some women experience a lot of discomfort, and others may not feel any at all. Pregnant women experience pregnancy differently, even if they've been pregnant before. Pregnant women may feel completely differently with each subsequent pregnancy.
First Trimester: The Baby at 4 Weeks
Development of embryo at approximately 4-6 weeks.

At 4 weeks, your baby is developing:

The nervous system (brain and spinal cord) has begun to form.
The heart begins to form.
Arm and leg buds begin to develop.
Your baby is now an embryo and 1/25 of an inch long.

First Trimester: The Baby at 8 Weeks
An eight week old human embryo.

At 8 weeks, the embryo begins to develop into a fetus. Fetal development is apparent:

All major organs have begun to form.
The baby's heart begins to beat.
The arms and legs grow longer.
Fingers and toes have begun to form.
Sex organs begin to form.
The face begins to develop features.
The umbilical cord is clearly visible.
At the end of 8 weeks, your baby is a fetus, and is nearly 1 inch long, weighing less than ⅛ of an ounce.

First Trimester: The Baby at 12 Weeks
Human fetus in utero at twelve weeks.

The end of the first trimester is at about week 12, at this point in your baby's development:

The nerves and muscles begin to work together. Your baby can make a fist.
The external sex organs show if your baby is a boy or girl.
Eyelids close to protect the developing eyes. They will not open again until week 28.
Head growth has slowed, and your baby is about 3 inches long, and weighs almost an ounce.

Second Trimester
Second Trimester

Second trimester: Week 13 – Week 28
Second Trimester: Changes a Woman May Experience
A pregnant woman starting to show.

Once you enter the second trimester you may find it easier than the first. Your nausea (morning sickness) and fatigue may lessen or go away completely. However, you will also notice more changes to your body. That "baby bump" will start to show as your abdomen expands with the growing baby. By the end of the second trimester you will even be able to feel your baby move!
Second Trimester: Physical and Emotional Changes in a Woman
A pregnant woman with back pain (left), pregnant woman with stretch marks and line running down her belly (center), and woman with melasma (pregnancy mask) on her cheek (right).

Some changes you may notice in your body in the second trimester include:

Back, abdomen, groin, or thigh aches and pains
Stretch marks on your abdomen, breasts, thighs, or buttocks
Darkening of the skin around your nipples
A line on the skin running from belly button to pubic hairline (linea nigra)
Patches of darker skin, usually over the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. This is sometimes called the mask of pregnancy (melasma, or Chloasma facies).
Numb or tingling hands (carpal tunnel syndrome)
Itching on the abdomen, palms, and soles of the feet. (Call your doctor if you have nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, yellowing of skin, or fatigue combined with itching. These can be signs of a liver problem.)
Swelling of the ankles, fingers, and face. (If you notice any sudden or extreme swelling or if you gain a lot of weight quickly, call your doctor immediately. This could be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia.)

Second Trimester: The Baby at 16 Weeks
The human fetus at about four months showing the head and upper limbs and the umbilical cord which connects the fetus (at the navel) to the placenta.

As your body changes in the second trimester, your baby continues to develop:

The musculoskeletal system continues to form.
Skin begins to form and is nearly translucent.
Meconium develops in your baby's intestinal tract. This will be your baby's first bowel movement.
Your baby begins sucking motions with the mouth (sucking reflex).
Your baby is about 4 to 5 inches long and weighs almost 3 ounces.

Second Trimester: The Baby at 20 Weeks
Human fetus near his fifth month of development.

At about 20 weeks in the second trimester, your baby continues to develop:

Your baby is more active. You might feel movement or kicking.
Your baby is covered by fine, feathery hair called lanugo and a waxy protective coating called vernix.
Eyebrows, eyelashes, fingernails, and toenails have formed. Your baby can even scratch itself.
Your baby can hear and swallow.
Now halfway through your pregnancy, your baby is about 6 inches long and weighs about 9 ounces.

Second Trimester: The Baby at 24 Weeks
Human fetus at approximately 24 weeks showing details of his closed eyes, nose, mouth, and facial hair.

By 24 weeks, even more changes occur for your growing baby:

The baby's bone marrow begins to make blood cells.
Taste buds form on your baby's tongue.
Footprints and fingerprints have formed.
Hair begins to grow on your baby's head.
The lungs are formed, but do not yet work.
Your baby has a regular sleep cycle.
If your baby is a boy, his testicles begin to descend into the scrotum. If your baby is a girl, her uterus and ovaries are in place, and a lifetime supply of eggs has formed in the ovaries.
Your baby stores fat and weighs about 1½ pounds, and is 12 inches long.

Third Trimester
Third Trimester

Third Trimester: Week 29 – Week 40 (birth)
Third Trimester: Changes a Woman May Experience
A pregnant woman stretching her back while sitting.

The third trimester is the final stage of pregnancy. Discomforts that started in the second trimester will likely continue, along with some new ones. As the baby grows and puts more pressure on your internal organs, you may find you have difficulty breathing and have to urinate more frequently. This is normal and once you give birth these problems should go away.
Third Trimester: Emotional and Physical Changes a Woman May Experience
A pregnant woman holding her stomach.

In the third and final trimester you will notice more physical changes, including:

Swelling of the ankles, fingers, and face. (If you notice any sudden or extreme swelling or if you gain a lot of weight really quickly, call your doctor right away. This could be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia.)
Hemorrhoids
Tender breasts, which may leak a watery pre-milk called colostrum
Your belly button may protrude
The baby "dropping," or moving lower in your abdomen
Contractions, which can be a sign of real or false labor
Other symptoms you may notice in the third trimester include shortness of breath, heartburn, and difficulty sleeping

Third Trimester: Changes as the Due Date Approaches
A doctor examines a pregnant woman's belly.

Other changes are happening in your body during the third trimester that you can't see. As your due date approaches, your cervix becomes thinner and softer in a process called effacement that helps the cervix open during childbirth. Your doctor will monitor the progress of your pregnancy with regular exams, especially as you near your due date.
Third Trimester: The Baby at 32 Weeks
The human fetus at 8 months, almost full term.

At 32 weeks in the third trimester, your baby's development continues:

Your baby's bones are soft but fully formed.
Movements and kicking increase.
The eyes can open and close.
Lungs are not fully formed, but practice "breathing" movements occur.
Your baby's body begins to store vital minerals, such as iron and calcium.
Lanugo (fine hair) begins to fall off.
Your baby is gaining about ½ pound a week, weighs about 4 to 4½ pounds, and is about 15 to 17 inches long.

Third Trimester: The Baby at 36 Weeks
Human fetus in utero at approximately 36 weeks.

At 36 weeks, as your due date approaches, your baby continues development:

The protective waxy coating (vernix) thickens.
Body fat increases.
Your baby is getting bigger and has less space to move around. Movements are less forceful, but you will still feel them.
Your baby is about 16 to 19 inches long and weighs about 6 to 6½ pounds.

Third Trimester: The baby at 37 to 40 Weeks
A mom looks at her newborn child.

Finally, from 37 to 40 weeks the last stages of your baby's development occur:

By the end of 37 weeks, your baby is considered full term.
Your baby's organs are capable of functioning on their own.
As you near your due date, your baby may turn into a head-down position for birth.
Average birth weight is between 6 pounds 2 ounces to 9 pounds 2 ounces and average length is 19 to 21 inches long. Most full-term babies fall within these ranges, but healthy babies come in many different weights and sizes.

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