A normal pregnancy is generally described as a period of gestation that does not incur significant obstacles or difficulties for the unborn fetus or the general health of the mother. Rather, any complication that could put the baby or mother at high risk would mean that the pregnancy was not "normal." During a normal pregnancy, the mother-to-be will visit her obstetrician usually monthly for the first few months. During the last trimester, it may be recommended that she see her doctor more often, which is also typical in a normal pregnancy.
During the course of a normal pregnancy, the mother-to-be will have a blood pressure reading that falls within the average range. She will also have a healthy target weight. As the fetus develops in the womb, the mother will expect to gain weight accordingly. In a normal pregnancy, the mother will show no signs of spotting, severe pregnancy cramps, or vaginal discharge to warrant suspicion.
In pregnancy, the woman will have an average core body temperature without large fluctuations. Other than typical minor discomfort, there will be no major signs of physical distress or adverse signs. During the stages of pregnancy, you may have regular laboratory tests, such as urine tests and blood tests. If the mother and fetus are healthy and the pregnancy is normal, blood and urine samples will show no signs of disease or problems.
To ensure a healthy pregnancy, the obstetrician will want to rule out the presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis. A normal pregnancy will not have the presence of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The mother will not have iron deficiencies or signs of anemia. A test of her thyroid gland function will usually be done. Functioning must be at peak levels for the pregnancy to be considered "normal."
Near the third trimester, it is a normal procedure to examine the fetus for birth defects and conditions. These procedures are usually performed on an optional basis at the request of the mother. If you are at risk of having a baby with Down syndrome, due to the mother's age, for example, she may want to be tested.
If the due date passes and delivery is considerably delayed, this would not typify a normal pregnancy. This is because, as the baby continues to grow in weight and size, the placenta may shrink and not be able to support the fetus. Therefore, if the pregnancy is considered healthy and normal, the baby will be delivered no later than several days to a week after the due date.