Pregnancy has profound impacts on a woman's body and can influence her health in various ways. During pregnancy, changes occur that support the development of the fetus but can also challenge the mother's health. Common physiological changes include increased blood volume, hormonal fluctuations, and alterations in organ function, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and changes in blood pressure. Pregnancy can exacerbate existing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, or lead to new health issues like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, which require careful management to ensure the health of both mother and child.

Postpartum, women may experience physical issues such as persistent weight gain, pelvic floor disorders, or mood disorders like postpartum depression. Adequate prenatal care, including regular check-ups, proper nutrition, and appropriate physical activity, are critical for managing health during pregnancy. Postpartum care is also essential to address any ongoing health issues and support a woman's physical and mental recovery after childbirth.

Early gender determination refers to the ability to identify the biological sex of a baby before the standard 18-20 week ultrasound. This can typically be done as early as 9 to 10 weeks into pregnancy through non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which analyzes small amounts of fetal DNA present in the mother's blood. NIPT is commonly used to screen for genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, but it also provides the option for determining the baby's gender. This test is highly accurate, offering a 99% detection rate for fetal sex. However, it is important to remember that this test is primarily used for screening and may not be available in all regions or covered by insurance for non-medical purposes.

Additionally, gender determination can be achieved through an ultrasound at around 16 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, the baby's genitalia may be developed enough to be visualized by a trained sonographer, although this is not always guaranteed. Factors such as the baby's position, the mother's body type, and the quality of the ultrasound equipment can affect the ability to accurately determine gender at this early stage. Parents seeking early gender determination should consult with their healthcare provider to understand the most appropriate and reliable options based on their unique circumstances.