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Pregnancy is a period characterized by numerous alterations of the body, to provide a proper environment for newborn development and growth and optimal conditions for the natural delivery. The changes that take place at the musculoskeletal system are subsequent to the increase in the ligament laxity secondary to hormonal changes, especially relaxin, and due to weight gain, which is predominantly distributed at the abdominal level, with the anteriorly movement of the center of gravity. The curvatures of the spinal column changes, with the accentuation of the lumbar lordosis and compensatory modifications at cervical and thoracic levels in order to facilitate the ambulation of the pregnant woman with a minimum risk of falls. The pelvic girdle adapts for natural delivery, with higher diameters due to an increased mobility in the sacroiliac and pubic articulations. Hydro saline retention may be accompanied by edema and secondary compression of the nervous structures, determining paresthesia and pain. It is important to know how these mechanisms work, because the common element is pain, which leads to invalidation and a decrement of the life quality, to provide with an adapted management, especially because the therapeutic resources are limited in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactation provides for the newborn the proper quantity and quality of food. There are no alimentary restrictions for the mother in the lactating period, but in case of complications such as obesity or gestational diabetes, nutrition counseling is necessary. The milk demand of the infant dictates the mother’s capacity of milk production and is influenced by age, growth rate and by any other medical conditions. Breastfeeding offers optimal nutritional intake, even when the mother’s food intake is limited, except for the case when the mother has a chronically deficient diet. Energy requirement depends on maternal age, weight, height and level of physical activity, alongside the necessary elements for milk synthesis. The micronutrients and macronutrients requirements depend on the maternal nutritional status, the mobilization of tissue deposits and on their rate in milk secretion, in order to provide a proper growth and development of the newborn. Weight gain or loss in lactation is similar as in nonpregnant women, but weight loss after pregnancy is influenced by factors such as weight before pregnancy, age, parity, race, smoking status, the amount of physical exercises and if the mother returns to work outside her home. Special situations such as multiple gestations, obesity or recent bariatric surgery require support and encouragement for a proper breastfeeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]