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Every week brings new developments when you're expecting. Your baby's changing day by day, and your body is keeping pace with developments of its own. Find out what's going on, inside and out, with this week-by-week pregnancy calendar guide. First Trimester Weeks 1 and 2 of pregnancy Your pregnancy begins as your body gears up for ovulation and prepares for fertilization. Week 3 of Pregnancy As sperm meets egg, fertilization occurs and your baby-to-be takes form as a tiny group of cells. Week 4 of Pregnancy The blastocyst that will be your baby splits to form the placenta and the embryo, and the specialized parts of your baby's body begin to develop. Week 5 of Pregnancy Your baby's heart and circulatory system are developing, while your hCG hormone levels are now high enough to confirm your good news with a home pregnancy test. Week 6 of Pregnancy Your baby's face is taking shape, which is something sweet to think about as you race to the toilet to pee yet again. Week 7 of Pregnancy Right now, the only things growing faster than your baby's brain may be your tingly, achy breasts. Week 8 of Pregnancy As your baby starts moving in the womb, morning sickness (which doesn't just strike in the morning) may have you moving to the bathroom. Week 9 of Pregnancy Your baby is busy building muscle, but all you may want to do these days is take a nice long nap. Week 10 of Pregnancy On your baby's to-do list this week: Build bones and cartilage. On your agenda, increase your fiber intake to cope with pregnancy constipation. Week 11 of Pregnancy

That adorable little alien inside your tummy is starting to look human about now, as you start feeling a bit more human yourself. Week 12 of Pregnancy While it may seem as if you've doubled in size over the past few weeks with pregnancy weight gain, it's your baby who actually has! Week 13 of Pregnancy As the first trimester comes to a close, your baby's about the size of peach, though you may not be feeling too peachy about your sex life right now. Learn more about the first trimester of pregnancy . Second Trimester Week 14 of Pregnancy It's all about hair now as your baby sprouts some on his head, eyebrows, and body. As for Mom, those first-trimester pregnancy symptoms should be easing up a bit. Week 15 of Pregnancy You might not yet be feeling it, but your baby is kicking those little legs and flexing those elbows, while higher up you may be coping with some dental weirdness. Week 16 of Pregnancy Here's an eye opener for you: While you're packing on the baby pounds, your baby's eyesight (and eyelashes!) are developing rapidly. Week 17 of Pregnancy Your baby is practicing sucking and swallowing as she gets ready for the real thing: a breast or bottle! As for Mom, you may be warding off some unwanted belly touching. Week 18 of Pregnancy You might start to feel your baby moving around anytime now, which is a great way to take your mind off your bothersome back. Week 19 of Pregnancy Your baby's skin now has a protective coating, while you might be hoping for something to protect you from painful leg cramps. Week 20 of Pregnancy Boy or girl? You can find out this week through a routine ultrasound! Week 21 of Pregnancy Your baby is grazing on whatever you are right now, but those stretch marks are yours alone, Mom. Week 22 of Pregnancy These days, the only things growing more rapidly than your baby's senses may be her mommy's feet!

Week 23 of Pregnancy Baby is getting (a little) plumper, but Mommy may notice something completely different when she glances at her own belly: the linea nigra. Week 24 of Pregnancy Your baby's facial features are really filling outand your belly button may be really popping out! Week 25 of Pregnancy As baby prepares to take his first breath, pesky hemorrhoids may make you swear under yours. Week 26 of Pregnancy Major excitement: Your baby opens her eyes! On the flip side, you might wish yours would stay closed so you could get some sleep. Week 27 of Pregnancy Your baby moves on to a whole new growth chart this week, while your swollen feet and ankles may need a growth chart of their own! Learn more about the second trimester of pregnancy . Third Trimester Week 28 of Pregnancy Your baby has started blinking and dreaming while you may be dreaming that the pain in your derriere will disappear! Week 29 of Pregnancy Your baby's packing on the pounds, which look so cute on her. If only you could say the same for your varicose veins. Week 30 of Pregnancy Your baby's brain is getting smarter by the minute, but for Mom, the only thing that smarts right now may be heartburn pain. Week 31 of Pregnancy As your baby's senses increase, his mommy's breathing room decreases. Week 32 of Pregnancy Your baby is practicing survival skills like sucking and breathing, while your uterus is practicing some Braxton Hicks contractions. Week 33 of Pregnancy Your baby's immune system gets a boost, while her sleepless mommy could use a boost of energy. Week 34 of Pregnancy

A boy baby's testicles descend this week (whoopee!), but Mom should also look out below and above as her vision becomes less sharp. Week 35 of Pregnancy A rapidly growing brain makes your baby's head weigh more and that means more pressure on Mommy's bladder. Week 36 of Pregnancy Your baby's bones may be ready to rock and roll, but yours may be aching something awful right now. Week 37 of Pregnancy Your doctor may check for labor signs, while your baby prepares for birth by sucking, turning, and breathing in the womb. Week 38 of Pregnancy Your baby is producing surfactant, which will help him take those first breaths while you're producing colostrum, the precursor to breast milk. Week 39 of Pregnancy Your baby's brain development is still in high gear, even as you may start to experience some definite signs of labor. Week 40 of Pregnancy It's the official end of your pregnancy though your baby might not have gotten that memo. Hang in there! Week 41 of Pregnancy It's not unusual for a baby to be overdue, but you're apt to feel real labor pains at any time this week or next. Week 42 of Pregnancy In the rare case that your baby is truly overdue, the good news is she'll be wide-awake and ready to go once she's born. Learn more about the third trimester of pregnancy .

Your Baby in Weeks 1 and 2 of Pregnancy No, theres no baby or even an embryo in sight (at least not yet). But in week two of pregnancy, your body is working hard to gear up for the event that paves the way for the baby: the big O ovulation. The lining of your uterus is thickening, preparing for the arrival of a fertilized egg, while your ovarian follicles are maturing. One of those follicles will release the egg that will travel down the fallopian tube in search of Mr. Right the lucky sperm that will turn that eager egg into a baby-in-the-making and make your bodys prep work worth all the effort. Learn more about your body gearing up to ovulate and your baby (in-the-making) in weeks one and two. Your Body in Weeks 1 and 2 of Pregnancy Believe it or not, the countdown to delivery day begins in week one even though your egg and his sperm havent even been in the same room (or womb!). So how can

you call this your first week of pregnancy if you're not even pregnant? Grab your calendar and take note: Because it's extremely hard to pinpoint the precise moment pregnancy begins (i.e., when sperm meets egg), most practitioners use the first day of your last menstrual period (which you're having right now) as the starting line of your 40-week pregnancy. Confused? Consider it a head start you're clocking in roughly two weeks of pregnancy before you even conceive! Learn more about your body in the first two weeks of pregnancy and your last menstrual period. Weeks 1 and 2 Pregnancy Tip: Impact of Heat on Fertility Trying to make a baby? Turn off that electric blanket and keep each other warm the good, old-fashioned (and just plain good) way. Studies show that prolonged excessive heat like that produced by electric blankets or heated waterbeds can adversely affect those temperamental testes by slowing down sperm production (and you want sperm aplenty right now!). Plus, all that snuggling you'll have to do to stay warm will generate a different kind of heat the kind that can actually make babies. More ways to increase your odds of scoring a fertilized egg: Refrain from giving your partner oral sex (sorry, guys!) before the main event, since saliva can actually kill spermand you want them alive and kicking. Ditto for most lubricants, so lay off the Astroglide while you're trying to conceive. Learn more about preparing your body for pregnancy. Weeks 1 and 2 Pregnancy Symptoms Week 1 Bleeding lasting five to seven days: This is the last period youll be having for a while. Not only will you stop having a period while youre pregnant, but if you breastfeed your baby that will postpone your period for another few months. If you use sanitary pads, dont toss them out youll need them after you give birth to absorb the vaginal discharge and bleeding (which for the first week or so after childbirth will be similar to a heavy menstrual period). Week 2 Increase in amount of cervical mucus and change in its consistency: If youve been monitoring your mucus during these TTC months, you

already know that it changes consistency from week to week. Right now your mucus is probably thick, sticky, and creamy, but as you head toward C-day (conception), the volume will increase and itll start to look cloudy.

Your Baby in Week 3 of Pregnancy The moment youve been waiting for has finally arrived: Youve conceived and your soon-to-be-baby has started on its miraculous transformation from single cell to baby boy or girl. This week, the fertilized egg or zygote divides several times over to become a tiny ball of microscopic cells smaller than the period at the end of this sentence. As it divides, the blastocyst, as it's now called (don't worry, you'll come up with a cuter name soon!), makes its way from your fallopian tube to your uterus, where it will implant itself in the uterine wall and grow for the next nine months.

Learn more about your baby this week and conception. Your Body in Week 3 of Pregnancy You probably won't notice as the fertilized egg divides and makes its way to your uterus. But your body is gearing up to play landlord to the blastocyst (and soon-to-be baby) making its way toward the uterus. What does that mean for you? Youre just beginning to produce progesterone and estrogen, the pregnancy hormones that will be responsible for a host of bodily changes (and symptoms like morning sickness!) to come. For now, though, and the next couple of weeks, itll be like nothing is happening at least on the outside! Learn more about your body this week and ovulation and fertilization. Week 3 Pregnancy Tip: Ovulation and Sense of Smell Are smells suddenly stronger to you than ever? It could be a sign that you're ovulating! Scientists aren't quite sure why this happens, though it's been theorized that a heightened sense of smell makes an ovulating woman more sensitive to the lure of her partner's pheromones, those scent-producing chemical compounds that nature releases to put the sex drive into overdrive. The result? You're in the mood for lovin' just when nature (and you) wants you to be (when lovin' is most likely to produce a baby). So take advantage of your ovary-stimulated inner beagle. If you're feeling like you could track a pheasant through the woods (or at least a garlic-roasted chicken), chances are this is a good time to hop in the sack and try to make a puppy or, rather, a baby. Learn more about five ways to tell you're ovulating. Week 3 Pregnancy Symptoms A rise in your basal body temperature: Your basal body temperature (BBT) is lower when your body is heading toward ovulation but rises about a degree when you ovulate. Thats because the hormone estrogen, which lowers your BBT, dominates the first half of your cycle, while progesterone, which raises your BBT,

surges once you ovulate (to get the uterus ready to receive the fertilized egg). So this week youll see a rise in your BBT if youve been keeping track. Clear cervical mucus with an egg-white consistency: Last week your mucus was getting thinner and looking a little cloudy; this week its extra-thin, extrastretchy, and clear (or whitish) perfect traveling conditions for sperm heading upstate (toward the egg). Possible lower-abdominal achiness (mittelschmerz): About one in four women feel a twinge or series of cramps in the lower abdominal area usually one side (the side theyre ovulating from). This pain, which is thought to come from an ovary releasing an egg, is known as mittelschmerz (from the German word meaning middle pain).

Your Baby in Week 4 of Pregnancy No bigger than a poppy seed, the ball of cells that will develop into your baby has completed its journey from your fallopian tube to your uterus. Once settled in its new home, it will undergo the great divide splitting into two groups. Half will become your baby (or embryo), while the other half forms the placenta, your baby's lifeline until delivery. The multilayered embryo then begins to grow into specialized parts of your baby's body. The inner layer, known as the endoderm, will develop into your baby's digestive system, liver, and lungs. The middle layer, called the mesoderm, will soon be your baby's heart, sex organs, bones, kidneys, and muscles. The outer layer, or ectoderm, will eventually form your baby's nervous system, hair, skin, and eyes. Learn more about your baby this week and development of the embryo and placenta. Your Body in Week 4 of Pregnancy While the tiny ball of cells that is your baby begins to undergo its magical transformation into a multilayered embryo, your body is going through a magical transformation of its own from a reliable buddy to a weird and wacky science experiment. You may start exhibiting early pregnancy symptoms like bloating, cramping, and mood swings that feel similar to premenstrual symptoms. You might also experienceimplantation bleeding , a common (and harmless) light pink, red, or brown spotting that can occur when the egg settles into your uterus.You might feel a little pressure in your abdomen (nothing to worry about!) and your breasts may feel a little tender and become even bigger (but get ready for more growth spurts!). Learn more about your pregnant body this week and how the egg implants. Week 4 Pregnancy Tip: Figuring Out Your Due Date Think you need a Ph.D. in quantum physics to figure out your due date? Doing the math is actually a lot easier than you think (even if you slept through high school algebra): Your estimated due date is 40 weeks from the first day of your last period. Too easy? Here's the slightly confusing part. If you do give birth on that day, your baby will have clocked in only 38 weeks in utero, not 40. That's because pregnancy

counting begins two weeks before your baby is even conceived (making you about 4 weeks pregnant before you can tell you're expecting from a pregnancy test). Want to set your watch to that due date or at least, plan your maternity leave to it? Not so fast. Remember, your estimated due date is just that an estimate. Most babies are born between 38 and 42 weeks (with babies of first-time moms more likely to arrive on the later side); only a handful actually make their debut right on schedule. Learn more about how to calculate your due date. Week 4 Pregnancy Symptoms Implantation bleeding (possibly): If you find that youre spotting this week (right around the time that you would have had your period or a little before), dont be alarmed. This is usually a sign that the embryo has implanted itself into the uterine wall (and thats good!). Dont have any spotting at all? Dont worry, either only a small percentage of women experience implantation bleeding, so not having this symptom doesnt mean that youre not pregnant. PMS-like symptoms (breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings) that might not go away: Sore, tender boobs? Check. Trouble buttoning your pants? Check. Feeling grumpy one minute, happy the next? Check and check. Early pregnancy symptoms are sort of like PMS symptoms but a little more exaggerated (think PMS on steroids). So your breasts may be tingly, sore, and feel a little full, thanks to the progesterone and estrogen coursing through your system (and getting your breasts ready yes, even at this early stage to feed your baby). And whats up with the bloating? Well, blame progesterone for that one. Its helping to slow down your digestion to allow more nutrients to enter the bloodstream and reach your baby. You can also blame your roller-coaster moods on hormones (go ahead theyll be a convenient excuse for the next nine months!).

Week 5 of Pregnancy
The heart and circulatory system of your baby are developing, while the hCG hormone level in your body are now high enough to confirm that you're expecting using a home pregnancy test.

Your Baby in Week 5 of Pregnancy Your baby now resembles a teeny tadpole (complete with a tiny tail) and is about the size of an orange seed. The circulatory (or blood) system, along with the heart, is the first part of that tiny body to be functional; and as your baby's heart starts to form, you may even be able to see it beating on an early ultrasound. Another part of your little tadpole that is under construction: the neural tube, which will eventually become your baby's brain and spinal cord. Learn more about your baby this week and fetal heart development.

Your Body in Week 5 of Pregnancy Your body's had all the early pregnancy signs the missed period, nausea, tender breasts, and fatigue. And now you've got proof as your pee works its magic on that test strip yup, you're officially preggers! This news will probably elicit a combo platter of emotions ranging from sheer joy to sheer terror as the reality that you're going to be a mom sets in. Mood swings are totally normal (kind of like PMS on overdrive) and you'd better get used to them since they'll be hanging around for the next nine months or so. Learn more about your body this week and pregnancy hormones. Week 5 Pregnancy Tip: Telling Your Friends You're Pregnant Have you or your partner been bursting to spread the good news about your pregnancyever since that home pregnancy test turned positive? Not sure when's the best time to grab a megaphone (or a telephoneor a computer keyboard) and start sharing? Only the two of you can make the call, so to speak, on that one. Some couples can't wait to tell their friends they're pregnant (if they could, they'd shout it from the highest mountain or scream it on the Times Square JumboTron), while others prefer to keep their happy news a secret until after the third month, when the risk of miscarriage greatly decreases. Still others wish that they could stay mum about becoming a mom (and dad) but can't help blabbing the first chance they get. Talk it over together and remember, it's your private news for as long as you choose. Learn more about spreading the news. Week 5 Pregnancy Symptoms Frequent urination: Spending too much time in the loo these days? The reason is that the pregnancy hormone hCG is increasing the blood flow to your pelvic area and your kidneys, making them more efficient during pregnancy (after all, you're urinating for two). What can you do about it? Well, what you dont want to do is cut back on liquids (thinking itll keep you out of the bathroom) because your body and baby need a steady supply of fluids to stay hydrated during pregnancy. But you can

skip the diuretics like caffeine, which will only make your frequent urination even more frequent. Fatigue: Pregnancy is hard work, and that can cause a downshift in your get-upand-go. During the first trimester, a huge amount of energy goes into building a lifesupport system for your baby (namely the placenta), which can leave you feeling just a bit tired or full-out wiped-out. Also to blame are the hormonal (and emotional) changes that are occurring in your body. The good news: By the end of your first trimester, your body will have completed the Herculean task of manufacturing the placenta, so you might feel a renewal of energy. In the meantime, listen to your body (which is telling you its pooped!) and get plenty of rest and eat right (and often!). Breast tenderness and changes: Whats causing your breasts to grow and become ultrasensitive and tender? That hormonal duo estrogen and progesterone deserve most of the blame. Other factors include the good and necessary fat thats building up in your breasts and the increased blood flow to the area, both of which will help turn your breasts into milk machines for your baby. To help relieve breast tenderness, invest in a good bra (and wear it to bed if youre uncomfortable sleeping) and ask your partner to handle them with care. (In other words, look but dont touch, darling!) Nausea: That queasy feeling in your stomach, which can sometimes lead to vomiting, can hit at any time of the day or night (not just morning!), especially in the first trimester, thanks to some unknown combination of hormones, increased stress, and other body changes (like a keener sense of smell). To keep nausea under control, dont skip meals (even if the thought of eating makes you feel a little sick). Be a grazer instead, sticking to foods that appeal to you, and try to follow a healthy diet. Excessive saliva: Horrified to find your mouth watering for no reason at all? If so, you might be experiencing early pregnancys double whammy: a queasy tummy and excessive saliva (and yes, you can blame those pesky pregnancy hormones for those symptoms, too!). How to deal with the drool? Chewing sugarless gum can help your mouth stay a little dryer. Food cravings and aversions: Suddenly struck by an overpowering urge to eat a grilled cheese sandwich? Cant stand the sight of salads (or anything green)?

Welcome to the wacky world of food cravings and aversions. Hormones play a role here (as they do in most pregnancy symptoms) especially in these early weeks when your body is getting used to hormonal havoc. If you cant beat em, join em within reason. Indulge your chocolate cravings with a mini bar instead of a kingsized one and find healthy substitutes for the foods you cant stand (like drinking a V-8 instead of eating salads).

Week 6 of Pregnancy
Your baby's face is taking shape, which is something sweet to think about as you race to the toilet to pee yet again.

Your Baby in Week 6 of Pregnancy

You might be coping with full-blown pregnancy symptoms (sorry), but there's plenty of good news too. Your baby's jaw, cheeks, chin, eyes, ears, and nose are beginning to form what will eventually become one adorable face. In addition, her kidneys, liver, and lungs are developing, and her heart is now beating 80 times a minute (and getting faster every day). All this and she's still no bigger than the length of a nail head (about a quarter of an inch) from crown to rump! Learn more about your baby this week and your baby's head shape. Your Body in Week 6 of Pregnancy Your body may not yet have changed on the outside, but there's a lot happening on the inside. For one thing, the pregnancy hormone hCG is causing an increase of blood flow to your pelvic area, and your kidneys are becoming more efficient at ridding your body of waste; add to that the fact that your growing uterus is beginning to push down on your bladder and you've got a perfect (pee) storm. What else is going on in there? Bloating, queasiness, and cravings (or food aversions). Learn more about your body this week and frequent urination during pregnancy. Week 6 Pregnancy Tip: First Prenatal Visit Sure, you already got the news from your home pregnancy test but it doesn't hurt to hear it confirmed by a doctor one reason why you're so psyched for that first practitioner visit. Expect this first of many prenatal checkups to be excitingand long. You'll have a thorough physical, including a pelvic exam, Pap smear (unless you've recently had one) and blood tests to determine your blood type, Rh factor, and whether you're iron-deficient. You'll also be tested for sexually transmitted diseases, immunity to German measles (rubella), and ethnic-specific genetic diseases. Plus you'll need to pee into a cup (no problem with that right?) so your urine can be tested for glucose, protein, red and white blood cells, and bacteria. One more thing: Be prepared to answer lots of questions (health histories can take a while), but more importantly, to ask some of your own (bring a list so you won't forget any). Wonder whether you and Joe (aka your beloved triple extra foamy mocha cappuccino) will have to part company now that you're expecting? Why your

chest suddenly resembles a map of an interstate highway? If your partner's penis can poke the baby in the eye while you're making love? Don't just sit there ask! Remember no question is silly now. Learn more about prenatal testing. Week 6 Pregnancy Symptoms Frequent urination: Youre eating for two and peeing for two these days, thanks to your kidneys, which are getting more efficient about ridding your body of waste (yours and your growing baby-to-bes). You can blame your uterus too, which is putting pressure on your bladder now. To make sure you empty it all out (and save yourself another trip to the bathroom in ten minutes), lean forward when you pee. Then, when you think youre done, pee again. (Might as well try youre there anyway!) Fatigue: Building that baby (and the life support your growing fetus needs) is hard work, so its no wonder you feel exhausted. Listen to your body if its screaming at you to take a break, then take five! But do fit in some exercise: Take a walk or a yoga class; the endorphins you release will lift your mood and help you sleep better. Just dont overdo! Breast tenderness and changes: No, its not your imagination your nipples aresticking out more than usual. They may be tender too (so definitely warn your partner about what feels good to the touch and what doesnt). Why the luscious look these days? All the better to see you with, my dear! Your body is gearing up to breastfeed, and the darker areolas (the skin around the nipples) turn your nipples into a bulls-eye for your newborn, whose eyesight at birth wont be very good. Nausea and vomiting: Whether you are experiencing slight queasiness or hurling breakfast, lunch, or dinner (or all three), look on the bright side. (Though admittedly its hard to look at the bright side when your view is the porcelain goddess!) Women who experience some nausea are significantly less likely to miscarry than those who dont. Combat queasiness by eating small snacks that combine protein and complex carbs cheese and multigrain crackers, yogurt and granola, whatever your stomach can stomach.

Heartburn and indigestion: Heres the not-so-great news the chances of getting through the next nine months heartburn-free are nearly zero. Thats because the muscle at the top of the stomach that usually prevents digestive juices from backing up relaxes. But here's better news: you can minimize the symptoms if you don't rush through your meals and avoid clothes that constrict your belly. Bloating: Blame the progesterone thats coursing through your body as you read this this delightful hormone is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, but it also is responsible for your puff mommy-to-be look. Eat lots of fiber and drink plenty of water to avoid getting constipated, which can aggravate bloating. Increased sense of smell: Now that youre pregnant, youve got a bloodhounds keen nose. You can smell your coworkers lunch from across the room, the cologne your office-mate is wearing, and someones dirty sneakers (all at the same time!). Whats the deal with your supersensitive sniffer? Blame your hormones again. If your nose is making the queasies worse, surround yourself with some scents that may make you feel better (if there are any). Some to try: mint, ginger, and lemon.

Week 7 of Pregnancy
Right now, the only things growing faster than your baby's brain may be your tingly, achy breasts.

Your Baby in Week 7 of Pregnancy Your baby is now about the size of a blueberry (and about 10,000 times bigger than he was at conception). Most of that growth is concentrated in the head as new brain cells are generated at the rate of 100 per minute. Your baby's mouth and tongue are forming as arm and leg buds sprout, and those little kidneys are getting ready to do their job (pee production and excretion). Learn more about your baby this week and baby's development. Your Body in Week 7 of Pregnancy Your baby might be the size of a blueberry, but your breasts probably look more like melons. By this point, some expectant moms have grown a full cup size, which might be welcome news if those boobs weren't so darn tender. The culprits? Those naughty (though necessary) pregnancy hormones again, along with an increase in blood flow

and a buildup of fat all essential to the task your body can perform in about eight months:breastfeeding your newborn! Learn more about your body this week and swollen breasts during pregnancy. Week 7 Pregnancy Tip: Food Aversions If one look at a chicken breast is sending you flying out the door these days (or if the smell of Swiss is making your digestive tract yodel with anguish or the taste of fish is leaving you reeling), you're in good company. Pregnancy aversions are not only very common, they are also quite confusing, especially when your once-favorite food suddenly leaves you cold and ready to puke. My advice: Cater to your new tastes, by all means. Stay bland and boring (not your personalityyour food), find substitutes for foods you have an aversion to (think quinoa for protein if you can't stand the sight and smell of meat), and rejoice if your aversions are to foods that you're supposed to be avoiding anyway (sushi aversion, anyone?). Learn more about eating well in the first trimester. Week 7 Pregnancy Symptoms Frequent urination: Between the nausea and the need to pee, youre still spending a lot of time in the bathroom these days. The pregnancy hormone hCG is increasing the blood flow to your pelvic area (thats good news if youre up for having sex), and that in turn affects theother flow. Dont cut back on liquids, though (but you may want to cut back on coffee, which is a diuretic). Your body (and baby!) needs a steady supply of fluids during pregnancy. Fatigue: Of course youre tired youre still engaged in the Herculean task of manufacturing the placenta (your babys life-support system) as well as getting used to all those conflicting emotions youre experiencing. One way to fight fatigue is by eating smaller meals more often. (Itll help your queasy stomach, too). Eating six mini meals will keep your blood sugar on an even keel, and that in turn will help your energy level. Just make most of those mini meals healthy ones! Breast tenderness and changes: Are your breasts sprouting blue veins that are beginning to make them look like an interstate highway map? In fact, these veins do

act like highways: They transport the nutrients and fluids from you to your baby after he (or she) is born. To minimize sagging and stretch marks later on, invest in a good bra now (maybe even a maternity one that will give you more support). Nausea and vomiting: Dont choose the nursery colors just yet, but studies do show that moms-to-be who are severely nauseated in the first trimester tend to be carrying girls, thanks to the interplay of hormones produced by you and the female fetus. But regardless of your babys gender and how sick you feel, youll still want to keep some food down. Stick to foods that appeal to you, even if youre only eating fruit salads for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. (Your babys nutritional needs are tiny at this point, so no worries.) Excessive saliva: As if feeling queasy wasnt enough, you may also be contending with extra saliva pooling in your mouth. It should pass by the end of your first trimester (only seven more weeks to go!), but until it does, chew lots of sugarless gum. Food cravings and aversions: Stuck eating the same thing night after night because very few foods appeal to your picky palate now? Dont worry youre not robbing your baby of precious nutrients by eating the same (healthy) thing over and over. If cravings are driving you crazy, give in to them once in a while then eat well for the rest of the day. Heartburn and indigestion: If youve got a burning sensation from the depths of your stomach to your mouth after you eat, then youve got pregnancy-induced indigestion and heartburn. Avoid your heartburn triggers (spicy or fatty foods, caffeinated drinks, whatever does it to you) and drink either before or after you eat too much fluid mixed with too much food will distend your stomach and aggravate the burn. Constipation: If pregnancy has clogged up the works for you, youre not alone. The muscles in your bowels have relaxed so the food you eat can stay around your system longer. Thats good for your baby more nutrients for her (or him) and bad for you since sluggish bowels can leave you feeling, well, sluggish too. A good way to get things moving is to get your fill of the good bacteria found in probiotics. Find yogurts that contain active cultures and eat one a day (or take a probiotics supplement after

checking with your practitioner). Probiotics will stimulate the intestinal bacteria to break down food better and help your digestive track keep things moving.

Week 8 of Pregnancy
As your baby starts moving in the womb, morning sickness (which doesn't just strike in the morning) may have you moving to the bathroom.

Your Baby in Week 8 of Pregnancy Your baby is growing at an amazing rate about a millimeter every day and now is the size of a large raspberry. Your little berry is looking a lot less reptilian (even though she has webbed fingers and toes, her tail is just about gone) and a lot more baby-like these days, as her lips, nose, eyelids, legs, and back continue to take shape.

Her heart is beating at the incredible rate of 150 times per minute about twice as fast as yours! And even though you can't yet feel it, she's now making spontaneous movements as she twitches her tiny trunk and limb buds. Learn more about your baby and baby's growth this week. Your Body in Week 8 of Pregnancy While your raspberry-sized babe isn't exactly causing you to show yet, chances are your clothes are feeling a little tight around the tummy and you might need a bigger bra. You may also be feeling perpetually queasy. But take heart your baby feels just fine even while you're hugging the bowl with morning sickness. Try to eat often, but only a little at a time. That should also help your body battle another stubborn woe coming your way soon: pregnancy heartburn. Most likely, you'll find relief as you move into your second trimester, but for now, try to focus on the positive: Morning sickness is usually a sign that your pregnancy is going well. Learn more about your body this week and morning sickness. Week 8 Pregnancy Tip: Eating Fruit During Pregnancy Fruit is always your friend but consider it your best friend while you're expecting. Not only does nature's sweetest bounty contain essential vitamins and other nutrients that are good for you and your baby, but it plays a starring role in keeping you regular (pass the prunes, please!). More sweet news: The right fruit can stand in for just about any vegetable you're shunning when pregnancy aversions and nausea may be keeping you from bellying up to the salad bar. (For instance, opt for dried apricots when you can't stomach broccoli.) A good rule of nutritional thumb when it comes to fruits (and veggies): Stronger colors spell better nutrition. But more often than not, it's what's inside that counts. So while a cantaloupe pales in comparison with a red apple on the outside, the inside tells a different story; the deeply hued flesh of the melon way outscores the white apple in vitamin and mineral content. Select your produce, then, by the color of its inner rainbow when shopping and you'll find nutrients worth their weight in gold.

Learn more about eating well in the first trimester. Week 8 Pregnancy Symptoms Fatigue: Whats making you so tired these days? Try everything! Pregnancy is hard work, and you should ask for help from your partner, from your family, and from your friends. Having your partner (or a pal) lend a hand means you might have enough energy to go out for a walk (and then go to bed!). Nausea and vomiting: Those queasy feelings may still be sticking around this week. Try eating foods with ginger (many studies show it works for reducing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy) ginger cookies, real ginger ale, or ginger candies. And try taking your prenatal vitamin during dinner rather than on an empty stomach. The chewable kind might also make you feel less queasy. Food cravings and aversions: Craving weird substances such as clay or laundry starch? Call your practitioner. These types of cravings are called pica and could be a sign of a nutritional deficiency, especially of iron. Flatulence: Along with the bloating and constipation comes that other common scourge of pregnancy: flatulence (aka farting). The (aptly named) hormone relaxin, along with progesterone, is working to relax the muscles in your body, including those in your gastrointestinal tract. This causes food to move along more slowly, which leads to indigestion and gassiness. What can you do about it (except apologize to those around you)? Try to relax when you eat tension can cause you to swallow air along with your food, which can form gas pockets in your belly. Bloating: Those swell pregnancy hormones may cause you to swell as they slow down your metabolism. Try to drink lots of fluid and follow a healthy diet to avoid constipation, which only aggravates your bloated feeling. Constipation: Fiber can be your BFF in the fight against those sluggish intestines, so add some fiber to every meal. But pace yourself if youre not used to a fiber-rich diet or youll find yourself gassier than ever before: For instance, replace that white rice with brown and serve it along with your roasted chicken and veggies but dont overload your system with a dish of brown rice, tofu, and broccoli. Increased sense of smell: If your heightened sense of smell is making mealtime preparation unbearable, switch to foods that you dont have to cook or, better yet,

have your partner pitch in. If theres a window in the kitchen, leave it open. Or just cook the foods you can stand to eat. Increased vaginal discharge: Yet another bodily fluid introduced to you courtesy of estrogen leukorrhea, a thin, milky vaginal discharge. (When estrogen increases blood flow to the pelvic area, it stimulates the bodys mucous membranes.) Leukorrhea protects the birth canal from infection by maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria, so dont try to douche or wash it away. Occasional headaches: All that exhaustion, stress, and hunger (or nausea) youre experiencing (plus those pesky hormones) can make your head ache literally. Some women get headaches more often during pregnancy, and others dont. Make sure youre getting enough rest to ward off fatigue-triggered headaches and keep eating to prevent your blood sugar from dropping and triggering them as well. Occasional faintness or dizziness: You might find yourself light-headed these days. Thats because your body isnt producing enough blood to fill your rapidly expanding circulatory system, which is gearing up to meet the needs of that other (little) body. Let your practitioner know if it happens a lot; otherwise, lie down as soon as you feel light-headed. If thats not possible, then sit and bend as far forward as you can and put your head between your knees.

Week 9 of Pregnancy
Your baby is busy building muscle, but all you may want to do these days is take a nice long nap.

Your Baby in Week 9 of Pregnancy Your baby, now the size of a green olive, has grown about an inch since last week. Tiny muscles are beginning to form, so while he might not be ready to pump iron, he's gearing up to move his arms and legs. It's still too soon to feel anything in your belly, but you might be able to hear something at your next checkup. Try listening for your baby's heartbeat via a Doppler device that welcome sound should be audible anytime now. Learn more about your baby this week and the fetal heartbeat. Your Body in Week 9 of Pregnancy Chances are you've never felt so tired in your life and for good reason: Your body is working overtime preparing for motherhood as it develops the placenta, your baby's lifeline. At the same time, your metabolism and hormone levels are surging, which triggers a decrease in blood sugar and blood pressure. The result of all this: pregnancy fatigue. Relief is around the corner as your energy level increases

(and morning sickness decreases) over the next few weeks once placenta construction is completed. Learn more about your body this week and fatigue during pregnancy. Week 9 Pregnancy Tip: Healthy Snacking Dealing with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy isn't easy but it's especially hard when you're anxious to start feeding yourself and your baby well. Don't worry. As challenged as your tender first trimester appetite is right now, it's still up to the challenge of filling your baby's nutritional needs (since he's just a little bigger than a pea right now, those needs are pretty tiny, too). In the meantime, if big meals are a big turnoff, eat at least six smaller, but nutrient-packed mini-meals and snacks throughout the day. Not only will the mini-meals be easier for your queasy stomach toumstomach, but keeping your tummy a little bit filled is the best way to keep it from emptying out (over the toilet). Right now, focus on foods you find less offensive (even if it's crackers, crackers, and more crackers), choosing a healthy option whenever your stomach doesn't protest (make those crackers whole grain, and serve them up with a slice of mild cheddar). And don't forget to tap into the soothing power of ginger! Get more advice on eating when you're feeling nauseated. Week 9 Pregnancy Symptoms Frequent urination: If your sleeps being interrupted by that gotta-go feeling, try double-voiding when you pee when you think youre done peeing, pee again. This will help empty out your bladder completely and maybe buy you an extra hour of shut-eye during the night. Fatigue: Its a drag when youre dragging yourself through the day. Make a point of getting your sleep yes, its obvious, but between racing to the bathroom at midnight to pee and your mind racing with all those pregnancy worries, you may find it difficult to comply with your bodys ever-rising request for rest. So turn away from the computer (which can leave you too wired to fall asleep), turn in earlier

(maybe after reading a book or magazine), and linger in bed longer. That extra sleep should give you some staying power. Breast tenderness and change: Another thing that may be keeping you up at night? Your bigger breasts, which are not just larger but more tender too. The increased blood flow and their larger size can make them ultrasensitive and make you more uncomfortable at night. You can wear a cotton sports bra to minimize the discomfort. Excessive saliva: You may be feeling as if youve got enough spit to fill up a spittoon (and then some!). Using a minty mouthwash and brushing your teeth as often as you can make your mouth dryer. Heartburn and indigestion: Need a quick trick for banishing your next bout of heartburn? Chew some sugarless gum (it's perfectly safe in moderation for pregnant women check out these facts on artificial sweeteners and pregnancy). Chewing increases saliva, which then neutralizes the acid in your stomach. Tums or Rolaids also eases the burn (and gives you a calcium boost to boot). Flatulence: Got enough gas to rival a frat boy? Dont worry youre not the first mom-to-be mortified by a sudden expulsion of gas (at either end) in a public place. But if youd like to keep those embarrassing explosions to a minimum, try opting for small meals that wont overload your digestive system as much as large meals do. Bloating: Who knew pregnancy could spawn so many uncomfortable symptoms! To keep that gassy, bloated feeling to a minimum, eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation (see below), which can aggravate bloating. Constipation: To avoid even more bloating, try to get those bowels moving at their normal (or prepregnancy normal) pace. Besides drinking lots of water, have a go at fruit and vegetable juices to make you go. You could try hot water and lemon first thing in the morning (or last thing at night) some pregnant women swear by it! Increased sense of smell: If that keen sense of smell is making your life an olfactory ordeal, try leaving windows open (to banish musty bedroom odors or cooking smells) and washing your clothes more often (fibers tend to hold onto smells).

Week 10 of Pregnancy
On your baby's to-do list this week: Build bones and cartilage. On your agenda, increase your fiber intake to cope with constipation.

Your Baby in Week 10 of Pregnancy Your baby (now the size of a prune) has small indentations on his legs (soon to be knees and ankles!), and his tiny arms even have elbows that bend (how is that for magical?). Inside that little mouth, tiny buds of baby teeth are forming under the gums. His stomach and kidneys are kicking into gear, producing digestive juices and urine, and if it's a boy, his testes are making testosterone (how manly!). Learn more about your baby's development this week. Your Body in Week 10 of Pregnancy

All clogged up? For many moms-to-be, those pesky pregnancy hormones cause the smooth muscles of the large bowel to fall down on the job they get sluggish and you get constipated. Whole grains and veggies can help, as can drinking lots of water and exercising regularly. You might also be coping with headaches and newly visible veinsas your body's blood supply ramps up (it'll increase by 20 to 40 percent over the course of your pregnancy!). Learn more about your body this week and visible veins during pregnancy. Week 10 Pregnancy Tip: Cures for Constipation Constipation is an all-to-common first-trimester pregnancy symptom. What can you do about it? First, steer clear of foods that'll clog up the works (refined breads, cereals, pasta, and rice). Second, fixate on fiber: Whole grains (especially fiber-rich cereals), fresh fruit (think kiwis, a fine, furry friend to those who are constipated), dried fruit (and don't stop at that geriatric favorite, prunes try all your favorite fruits dried, from apricots and peaches, to pears, apples, blueberries, cherriesyou name it!), raw or lightly cooked vegetables, and nuts and seeds. Third, wash that fiber down (and through your system) with plenty of fluids, particularly water and fruit and vegetable juices (close your eyes and V8 tastes just like champagne! Well, sort ofif you really use your imagination). And finally, remember that getting moving can keep things moving (another good reason to put exercise on the agenda). If the situation doesn't improve in a couple of days, swallow your pride (if you haven't already) and call your practitioner, who may have a few special tricks up that white-coated sleeve. (Don't use any over-the-counter remedies without consulting him or her first.) Learn more about constipation during pregnancy. Week 10 Pregnancy Symptoms Fatigue: You probably still feel as if your get-up-and-go has gotten up and gone, but dont worry in about a month youll be feeling less tired. In the meantime, dont be super mom-to-be. Ask for help, get some rest, and work in some exercise when you

can. Yes, it seems counterintuitive to go out for a walk when you want to crawl into bed, but youll feel peppier (promise!) and youll sleep better. Nausea and vomiting: Whats the worst thing you can do if youre feeling queasy? Skip a meal. (Missing a meal just makes those queasy feelings more intense.) But if eating anything is really turning your stomach, try acupressure or seasickness bands. And sucking on ginger candy (or drinking real ginger ale) will help, too. Food cravings and aversions: Between those queasy feelings and food aversions, youve probably kept your weight gain down. And thats okay your babys nutritional needs are minuscule at this point. But even so, you dont want to go crazy on the cravings. Its okay to indulge once in a while, or eat a bite-sized piece of chocolate instead of a brownie, but if your cravings are getting out of hand, try some distractions: Call a friend, read a book, head to the gym, or go for a walk. Heartburn and indigestion: A good way to prevent heartburn? Dont eat while youre lying down or dont lie down right after eating a big meal (even though the bed beckons you!). And use pillows to prop up your head (about six inches) when you sleep. That should keep those gastric juices down. Flatulence: As your hormones continue to relax all your muscles, the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract are relaxing too, which means more indigestion (see above) and more intestinal gas. Your best bet is to stay away from foods that produce the most gas. You may find it helpful to keep a record of what you eat to see whether theres a connection between certain foods whether its fried foods or broccoli or beans and gas. Then you can avoid those triggers (or at least warn your partner!). Increased vaginal discharge:Youve got more blood flowing to the pelvic area (good for your sex life) thanks to the pregnancy hormone estrogen, as well as more mucus. The result is a thin, milky-white discharge that you may be seeing now. Its harmless, so dont bother with special wipes or washes these could change the delicate balance of your genital tract and lead to irritation. Occasional headaches: What accounts for these new pregnancy headaches? Blame hormones (theyre a convenient scapegoat!), but other triggers include fatigue (check), hunger (check), and stress (check).Your doctor will probably okay acetaminophen but not ibuprofen. Its also worthwhile to try other ways to soothe

your savage head: Lie down in a dark room, put a cold compress on your face or neck, or take fresh-air breaks. Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your body is still getting used to all that blood pumping through it, so its no wonder you feel dizzy occasionally. Be sure to sit or lie down as soon as you feel light-headed (so you dont fall). To decrease dizzy spells, carry healthy snacks around for a quick blood-sugar boost and stay hydrated. Visible veins on your body: That increased blood supply is also responsible for the road map of veins crisscrossing their way across your belly and breasts. Those veins are doing the important work of taking nutrients and blood to your baby. So theres nothing you can do but wait. They will disappear though! Lower abdominal achiness: Like so many pregnancy symptoms, round ligament pain (which is just a fancy name for those growing pains in that burgeoning belly of yours) is probably something you never expected. Whats causing them? The ligaments that support your belly are stretching out (and getting thinner); and as your belly gets heavier, the weight pulls on the ligaments, causing pain (sharp or dull). The best thing to do is get off your feet and get comfy.

Week 11 of Pregnancy
That adorable little alien inside your tummy is starting to look human about now, as you start feeling a bit more human yourself.

Your Baby in Week 11 of Pregnancy Your baby (now about two inches long) has been pretty busy this week, growing hair follicles, fingernails, and ovaries (if she's a girl). She has distinct human characteristics by now, with hands and feet in front of her body, with ears nearly in their final shape, open nasal passages on the tip of her tiny nose, a tongue and palate in the mouth, and visible nipples. What else makes her look human? Those hands and feet have individual fingers and toes (meaning good-bye to those froglike webbed hands and feet). Hooray! Learn more about your babys development in week 11. Your Body in Week 11 of Pregnancy Hungry? Good that's a sign yourmorning sickness is easing and your appetite is gearing up to help you nourish your bodyand your baby. But don't go overboard just because you're eating for two: Try to gain efficiently by choosing the most nutritious foods during pregnancy and minimizing the junk. More smart nibbling

tactics: Minimize bloating and gas (caused by digestion-slowing progesterone and your growing uterus) by grazing instead of gorging and steering clear of notorious gas producers, such as beans, fried foods, soda, and sweets. Learn more about your body in week 11 and bloating and burping. Week 11 Pregnancy Tip: Feeling Tired During Pregnancy Are your two favorite positions these days sitting and lying down? Pregnancy fatigue is normal. That's because you're running a baby-making factory that's in business 24/7 (and since you're the only employee, you're on the clock around the clock), causing your pregnant body to work harder at rest than your nonpregnant body did on the run. And for the next few weeks, a baby's not the only thing in production so is the placenta, the magnificently complex mission control that will serve as your baby's life-support system until delivery. The result? You feel tired and overworked, even when you're not doing a darn thing. Your energy should pick up once the placenta is up and running and your system adjusts (as best as it can) to the hormonal changes of pregnancy probably early in the second trimester. In the meantime, keep your blood-sugar level up with frequent snacks of complex carbs and protein (cheese and crackers; nuts and dried fruit), try a little exercise (which can actually give you an energy boost), and most of all listen to your body. When it calls for a break, take one. Learn more about fatigue during pregnancy. Week 11 Pregnancy Symptoms Frequent urination: Blame that pregnancy hormone hCG (which increases blood flow to the pelvic area and kidneys) for making you feel the need to pee nearly all the time. But dont be tempted to cut back on your fluid intake since you (and your babyto-be) need to stay hydrated instead, cut back on caffeinated drinks (they just increase your need to pee). Breast tenderness and changes: Your growing breasts may be a turn-on for your partner, but your achy boobs are a turnoff for you. Warn your partner about

your extra-sensitive breasts so that he knows why you may not be up for lovemaking or even heavy-duty hugging. Nausea and vomiting: Still feeling morning sickness morning, noon, and night? Dont despair since the odds are good you have only a week or two left of queasiness most moms-to-be get over their nausea by weeks 12 to 14. Excessive saliva: While experts arent entirely sure what causes this symptom, the most likely explanation is those darned pregnancy hormones. Keep your mouth as dry and minty-fresh as possible by brushing your teeth more often. Food cravings and aversions: Are you still gagging at the smell of what used to be your favorite food or jonesing for meat even though you were practically a vegetarian? The good news is that these freaky food preferences may lessen by your fourth month. Bloating: How can your belly feel so inflated when your fetus is still only about two inches long? The progesterone in your system has caused your gastrointestinal tract to relax, which slows digestion and leaves you feeling bloated. Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your body isnt producing enough blood to fill your expanding circulatory system, which can lead to dizziness and fainting. Stave off light-headedness by keeping your blood sugar stable with regular, small meals throughout the day and by keeping a stash of healthy snacks nearby at all times.

Week 12 of Pregnancy
While it may seem as if you've doubled in size over the past few weeks, it's your baby who actually has!

Your Baby in Week 12 of Pregnancy By now, your baby weighs a full half-ounce and is about the size of a large plum. Most of his systems are in place, though there's still plenty of maturing to do. For one thing, his fetal digestive system is beginning to practice contraction movements necessary for eating, and his bone marrow is busy making white blood cells weapons against germs once he's out of your safe haven. The pituitary gland (at the base of the brain) has started producing the hormones that'll enable him (or her) to make babies of his (or her) own in a couple of decades or so. Learn more about your baby in week 12 and fetal organs and systems. Your Body in Week 12 of Pregnancy If all those changes in your baby sound dizzying, that may just be you dealing with yet another problematic pregnancy symptom: Lots of women experience occasional dizzinessand/or feel faint due to progesterone, which causes increased blood flow to your baby by relaxing your own blood vessels. The decrease in blood

flow to your body and brain, along with typically lower blood-sugar levels during pregnancy, can set your world a-spinning. Do your part to keep your equilibrium by eating regularly, getting adequate rest, and standing up slowly. Learn more about your body in week 12 and dizzy spellsduring pregnancy. Week 12 Pregnancy Tip: Sex Drive Your best friend says being pregnant turned her into a sex kitten but you feel more like a dead fish (and just about as bloatedwhich makes you feel even less sexy). What's the deal with your sex drive? Hormones hit every woman differently, turning up the heat for some and throwing ice water on others. Pregnancy symptoms can also stand between you and a good time after all, it's hard to purr when you're busy gagging on dinner, or to get busy when you barely have the energy to get undressed, or for your partner to take advantage of those extra-large breasts when you have a strict look-but-don't-touch (ouch!) policy in effect. Rest assured, whatever youre feeling is normal. Just stay emotionally connected with your partner, and remember and remind your partner that many women who've lost that lovin' feeling in the first trimester get it back in the second, in spadesso don't be surprised if a very warm front moves into your bedroom soon. Learn more about sex and love during pregnancy. Week 12 Pregnancy Symptoms Decreasing need to urinate frequently: That gotta-go feeling may finally be starting to wane. But be sure to practice your Kegel exercises throughout the next several months to help prevent pregnancy-induced incontinence down the line. Fatigue: Throughout this first trimester your body is working overtime to build the placenta, which is likely zapping your energy. So let yourself rest when you feel the need, and take advantage of any opportunities to sleep now before your baby arrives and demands three a.m. feedings. Excessive saliva: This annoying pregnancy symptom will likely go away as you head into your second trimester. Minimize your discomfort (and distaste) by chewing sugarless gum or swishing mouthwash.

Flatulence: One way to decrease this embarrassing pregnancy symptom is to slow down when you eat. Scarfing down food can cause you to swallow air, which creates gas pockets in your already-overtaxed belly. Increased sense of smell: If your nose knows a little too much lately (you can tell what your hubby ate for lunch the moment he walks in the door), try opening the windows. Or keep a lemon wedge nearby, and sniff it when you start to smell a nausea-inducing odor citrus can quell queasiness. Increased vaginal discharge: Extra discharge is completely normal during pregnancy thanks to increased estrogen, which stimulates your bodys mucous membranes. Stay dry by wearing panty liners. Occasional headaches: Be sure to eat regularly throughout the day skipping meals causes low blood sugar, which can trigger headaches. Also, remember that its usually okay to take acetaminophen during pregnancy (but make sure your medical practitioner gives you the go-ahead first).

Week 13 of Pregnancy
As the first trimester comes to a close, your baby's about the size of peach, though you may not be feeling too peachy about your sex life right now.

Your Baby in Week 13 of Pregnancy What's up with your baby? Well, besides being as large as a peach now, that big old noggin of hers is now about half the size of her crown-to-rump length (thats one reason why your little peach looks more like an alien from outer space at this point). By the time you give birth, her body will catch up, measuring three-quarters of her total size. What else is going on in there? Tiny bones are beginning to form in her arms and legs, the intestines are beginning to move from the umbilical cord to the abdomen, and the vocal cords are well under construction (the first step toward saying, "I love you, Mommy!"). And because she can move her arms and legs in a jerky fashion, she may be able to get her thumb into her mouth (a habit that may come in handy for self-soothing when shes a newborn). Learn more about your baby in week 13 and fetal growth rates. Your Body in Week 13 of Pregnancy

When it comes to sex during pregnancy, anything goes. You may feel hotter than ever while your husband is feeling anything but. Or, he may be entranced by your ripening breasts and belly, but his eager eyes (and hands) are just about the last things you want to feel on your body right now. This is all normal and it's likely to change (and maybe change again) as you get closer to delivery. Whether you're getting any action down there and even if you're not there's still certainly lots going on in your nether regions. You may start to notice leukorrhea, a thin, mildsmelling milky vaginal discharge that protects the birth canal from infection and keeps the bacteria in your vagina in a healthy balance. (Okay, now do you feel sexy?) This harmless discharge is likely to increase in the coming weeks, so keep plenty of panty liners in stock. Learn more about your body in week 13 and vaginal discharge during pregnancy. Week 13 Pregnancy Tip: Having Twins? Your belly's already bursting out of the seams of your largest jeans, and you're just finishing up the first trimester. Could you be having twins? Maybe especially if you have a history of fraternal twins in your family or you're over 35 (or both). But there are other more-likely explanations for your seemingly larger-than-life belly. For instance, it could be that your due date's off (and your bigger-than-expected belly's just the result of a bigger-than-expected baby). Or it could be that you're just full of it gas, that is. Bloating can make a pregnant abdomen distend well beyond its weeks. Or it's possible that you're just taking the eating-for-two mandate a little too literally (you took everything you ate before you became pregnant and doubled it, leading to your early midsection expansion). To find out what's really going on in there, check with your practitioner at your next visit. Who knows you just might have two buns in your oven after all. (You can't tell from the outside, no matter what your grandmother says!) Learn more about twins and multiples. Week 13 Pregnancy Symptoms

Decreasing fatigue: Now that your body has had a trimester to adjust to pregnancy, you may be starting to feel a little less tired these days. Consider channeling your newfound energy into your workout routine but dont overdo it! Breast tenderness and changes: The aches youre feeling are largely due to estrogen, progesterone, and the increased fat and blood flow to your breasts. Pick bras with plenty of support to ease your discomfort. Food cravings and aversions: If you still have a yen for weird foods, dont be too hard on yourself. Do your best to find healthy foods that appeal to you, and give yourself permission to indulge in small portions of the junk foods you crave. Heartburn or indigestion: During pregnancy, the muscle at the top of the stomach relaxes, allowing digestive acids to rise up into the esophagus causing a burning in the chest. Reduce the pain by staying away from these heartburn triggers: alcohol, caffeinated drinks, chocolate, mint, citrus, and spicy or fatty foods. Constipation: Your bowel muscles also relax during pregnancy (due to hormones), which means your bowels will be less efficient at moving waste out of your system. If you find yourself backed up, slowly start adding more high-fiber foods to your diet (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are good picks). Occasional faintness or dizziness: Still plagued by dizzy spells? Dont get up from a sitting or prone position too quickly since this can trigger light-headedness. In the event that you do start to feel faint, immediately lie down or sit with your head between your knees Visible veins on body: Though you may not find these veins a welcome sight, theyre actually a good thing your increased blood supply is carrying much-needed nutrients to your baby. Even more good news: The vein network fades after you give birth.

SECOND TRIMISTER

Second Trimester of Pregnancy

The next three months bring lots of changes for your growing fetus and most likely, welcome relief from pesky early pregnancy symptoms

for you. Here's more on what to expect in the second trimester of pregnancy. Your baby is very, very busy in the second trimester. For one thing, he's sprouting hair, his ears and eyes are moving into their correct positions, and he's starting to suck and swallow. By week 18 of pregnancy, he weighs about as much as a chicken breast, he can yawn and hiccup (so cute!), and he's got fingerprints on those tiny digits. By week 21 of pregnancyyou should be able to feel his newly coordinated arms and legs give you little jabs and kicks and in week 22 of pregnancy , his developing senses start to smell, taste, see, and hear. By six months, your baby takes a cue from you and starts to pack on the pounds; in fact, he'll likely double his weight in the next four weeks. Capillaries are forming to carry blood through his body and those little eyes are starting to open. By the end of your second trimester, you'll have a twopound human in your belly! For Mom, the start of the second trimester often means less queasiness and more energy. And you're probably peeing less and showing more. Certain symptoms may persist (such as heartburn and constipation) and others may pop up for the first time. Don't be surprised if you're congested(you may even snore!) or mildly swollen around the ankles and feet. And be prepared for sensitive gums, leg cramps, dizziness, and an increased appetite. Other possiblepregnancy symptoms include skin changes, achiness in the lower abdomen, and varicose veins and/or hemorrhoids. All are perfectly normal and temporary and so are feelings of apprehension, irritability, forgetfulness, and frustration at looking positively plump but not definitively pregnant. There may be some big changes in the bedroom as well during the second trimester. Pregnancy can wreak havoc on your sex life as you and hubby cope with your changing body (he might be turned on while you're turned off or vice versa) and mood-killing symptoms like fatigue and nausea. Some (lucky) ladies find themselves hotter than ever, with extra blood flowing to all the right spots. A few things to keep in mind: Communication is key to avoiding resentment, so keep talking through the

dry spells. And remember sex will neither hurt your fetus nor scar him emotionally. In fact, he'd probably enjoy a little rocking and rolling! At the doctor's office, expect routine monitoring for the next several weeks. Your practitioner will check your weight, the size of your uterus, height of your fundus (top of your uterus), and the baby's heartbeat. You'll probably be scheduled for a second ultrasound between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, which allows your doctor to measure the baby, check the developing organs, determine the amount of amniotic fluid, and if you like clue you in on your baby's gender. Between 14 and 22 weeks of pregnancy you'll likely have a quad screening as well; this blood test measures the levels of four substances produced by your baby and passed into your bloodstream. The results can indicate increased risk factors for chromosomal or congenital abnormalities such as Down syndrome or neural-tube defects. Amniocentesis , during which amniotic fluid is extracted and analyzed for genetic abnormalities, is typically performed between weeks 16 and 18 of pregnancy (if you decide to have one). Despite all this testing, keep in mind that most babies are born healthy. Words to live by now: Eat well, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. Two down, one to go!

Week 14 of Pregnancy
It's all about hair now as your baby sprouts some on his head, eyebrows, and body. As for Mom, those first-trimester symptoms should be easing up a bit.

Your Baby in Week 14 of Pregnancy Now the size of your clenched fist, your baby is more fluid-like in his movements, so hes no longer doing the jerk every time he repositions his arms and legs. Other developments this week include a roof of his own (inside his mouth, that is) as well as intestinal activity: His intestines are producing meconium (which is the waste that will make up his first bowel movement after birth). He is also sporting a downy coating of hair (lanugo) that keeps him nice and warm. Not to worry you won't give birth to a monkey; baby fat will accumulate over the next few months and take over the function of keeping your baby warm and toasty allowing most of that hair to shed. Learn more about your baby in week 14 and fetal movement. Your Body in Week 14 of Pregnancy Welcome to the second trimester! With any luck, your breasts aren't quite as tender as they were last trimester and your energy level is making a comeback. More good

news on the horizon: less morning sickness and fewer trips to the potty to pee. You might find yourself feeling pregnancy aches on the lower sides of your abdomen about now as the muscles and ligaments that support your growing uterus stretch. And though it might be a pain in the well, lower abdomen it's pain with a gain and a sign that it won't be long now until your body finally starts to show that you're expecting. Learn more about your body in week 14 and the second trimester. Week 14 Pregnancy Tip: Staying Healthy As if you didn't have enough pregnancy symptoms to contend with, you're also more susceptible to colds, flu, and other bugs when you're expecting. That's because nature wisely suppresses your immune system during pregnancy to keep your fetus (a foreigner to your body) from being rejected. The key to staying healthy during pregnancy is to engage in some germ warfare. More than ever, the best defense is a strong offense, especially when germs are being passed around your office or home like canaps. Wash your hands often (and carry liquid sanitizer for times when a sink's not handy), don't share drinks or food or toothbrushes, and avoid sick people like the plague (it's okay to banish a sick spouse to the couch with a stack of DVDs). If you think you've caught something, check with your practitioner ASAP, who will treat what you've got with your special needs in mind. If antibiotics are prescribed for a bacterial infection (they're useless against viruses like colds), don't hesitate to take them because you've heard medications aren't safe during pregnancy. Many are plus getting better fast is the best medicine for your baby. Learn more about getting sick during pregnancy. Week 14 Pregnancy Symptoms Decreasing need to urinate frequently: Bladder pressure tends to lessen in the second trimester, which means you may finally be able to skip a few trips to the bathroom each day. Enjoy it now bladder pressure ramps up again in the third trimester, when the baby drops farther into the pelvis.

Decreasing fatigue: Youre probably feeling a renewed sense of energy now that your body has finished its first-trimester task of manufacturing the placenta. So consider taking this opportunity to get a jump start on baby prep (ready to start picking out a baby registry wish list?). Continued breast growth but decreasing tenderness: While your breasts are still growing and changing (for instance, your areolas are probably darker and your nipples may be on high alert), they may not feel as achy as they did in your first trimester. An end to (or decrease in) nausea and vomiting: If youre like most women, your morning sickness may be coming to an end now that youre in your second trimester (yay!). Pat yourself on the back (or tummy) for making it through the worst of the nausea. Increasing appetite: Now that the nausea is subsiding, youve rediscovered your appetite. Do your best to eat regular, healthy meals and snacks throughout the day (which keeps blood sugar and energy stable) instead of bingeing (which causes sugar highs and subsequent sugar crashes). Varicose veins: These large, swollen blood vessels, which often show up on the legs, are caused by the extra blood volume you produce to nourish your baby-to-be. Though you may not be able to prevent varicose veins entirely (theyre hereditary), you can help minimize them by walking throughout the day to keep blood circulating. Possible nasal congestion: Those pesky hormones are to blame once again high levels of estrogen and progesterone increase blood flow to mucous membranes in the body (including the nose), which causes them to swell and soften. Try running a warm-mist humidifier while you sleep to make breathing easier.

Week 15 of Pregnancy
You might not yet be feeling it, but your baby is kicking those little legs and flexing those elbows, while higher up you may be coping with some dental weirdness.

Your Baby in Week 15 of Pregnancy One way to deal with the havoc of pregnancy hormones: Focus on how much is happening with your baby. She's about the size of an orange this week, her ears have migrated to the sides of her head, and her eyes are moving to the front of her face. Plus, your little smarty-pants can now wiggle her fingers and toes and make breathing movements in preparation for life outside the womb. Learn more about your baby in week 15 and baby kicking. Your Body in Week 15 of Pregnancy Pregnancy hormones are pretty rough on your body, especially the teeth and gums, causing inflammation and making them more susceptible to plaque and bacteria. Your formerly healthy gums may have become super-sensitive and prone to bleeding. In addition, you might be coping with a chronic stuffy nose or even nosebleeds during pregnancy, also brought on by progesterone surging through your system. Fear not it'll all pass.

Learn more about your body in week 15 and dental care and concerns. Week 15 Pregnancy Tip: Weight Gain Whether you were barely able to gain an ounce during the first trimester (thanks to all that toilet hugging) or you gained more ounces and pounds than you care to admit (courtesy of all those comforting carbs your queasy self was overloading on), it's weight-gain time now. Starting in the second trimester, your baby's getting bigger and bigger and consequently, you should be too. Make slow and steady your motto and aim for a weekly weight gain of about one pound. But keep in mind that's an average which means that it's perfectly fine to gain half a pound one week, and a pound and a half the next, as long as you're netting about four pounds a month. If you're weighing in at home, once a week (or once every other week) is plenty; just make sure you do it consistently at about the same time and under about the same conditions (undressed, right after getting up, for instance). Or leave the weigh-ins to your practitioner at your monthly visits. Learn more about pregnancy weight gain. Week 15 Pregnancy Symptoms Heartburn or indigestion: Now that youre hungrier, you may find that eating large amounts of food in one sitting can lead to heartburn or indigestion. Guard against gastrointestinal discomfort by eating several small meals throughout the day (rather than three large ones) so as not to overload your digestive system. Flatulence: The hormones relaxin and progesterone are relaxing the muscles in your body (including those in your gastrointestinal tract), causing gassiness. Avoid gas-inducing foods such as broccoli, cabbage, beans, and fried foods. Bloating: The hormones that are causing your gastrointestinal system to relax and produce gas can also lead to bloating. A solution youll enjoy: Take time out to relax and get pampered (massage, pedicure, you name it) because tension can also cause you to swallow air, both during meals and during the day increasing bloat.

Occasional headaches: Headaches during pregnancy can be caused by just about anything hormones, fatigue, stress. To lessen your pain, place a cool compress on your forehead or on the back of your neck and sit in a dark, quiet room. Occasional faintness or dizziness: If you cant find a place to lie down or sit when you feel light-headed, kneel and bend your head forward as though you were tying your shoe. This will help prevent you from fainting and taking a spill. Varicose veins: The good news about varicose veins? Theyre unlikely to cause any harm. Plus, their presence is a good excuse to sit down and kick back with your feet up, since elevating your legs helps keep blood circulating and reduces pressure on the veins in your legs. Lower abdominal achiness: As the muscles and ligaments that support your growing uterus stretch, you might notice some pain on the lower sides of your belly (technically called round ligament pain). This is perfectly normal but if the pain becomes severe, let your practitioner know.

Week 16 of Pregnancy
Here's an eye opener for you: While you're packing on the baby pounds, your baby's eyesight (and eyelashes!) are developing rapidly.

Your Baby in Week 16 of Pregnancy Your baby now weighs in at a whopping three to five ounces, and he's four to five inches in length. The bones that are now in place in his ears means he can probably hear your voice as you talk to your partner and pals and sing in the car. While hes getting used to your voice, the tiny muscles in his body, especially the ones in his back, are gaining strength, so he can straighten out a little more. And thanks to his developing facial muscles, your baby is capable of making a few expressive frowns and squints, even at this early stage. (Dont worry, those frowns have nothing to do with the sound of your voice!) And his eyes are finally working, making small sideto-side movements and perceiving light (although the eyelids are still sealed). Peekaboo! Learn more about your baby in week 16 and fetal hearing. Your Body in Week 16 of Pregnancy

It's hard to watch yourself gain weight during pregnancy, even when you know there's a wonderful reason for it. The challenge, though, is to try to embrace your body's new shape and think of every pound you put on as a sign of good health for you and your baby. As long as you eat right during pregnancy (minimize junk and maximize nutrient-dense foods) and get regular exercise, you'll be fine in the long run. Remember, every woman is different and gains (and loses) at her own pace. One way to show your changing shape some love this week and feel better about yourself in the process: Buy a garment (or accessory) that makes you feel pretty at your new size (and don't forget to buy underwear that fits!). Another part of you thats swelling the membranes in your nose, leading to congestion. Learn more about your body this week and nasal congestionduring pregnancy. Week 16 Pregnancy Tip: Determining Your Baby's Gender True or false: A fetal heart rate of fewer than 140 beats per minute means you're having a boy, while a heart rate of more than 140 beats per minute means you're having a girl. It's a notion that's been making the obstetrical rounds forever, and the truth isit's false. Sorry, but while it sounds more plausible (and more grounded in medical fact), this one is about as reliable as holding a ring on a string over your belly and determining the baby's gender based on which way the ring turns. (If you buy that, there's a bridge in Brooklyn I'd like to sell you.) There are as many old tales about ways to find out your babys gender as there are old wives to tell about them (and try them out at family gatherings). Sure, they're fun to talk about, but all of them share just one truth: They're correct in predicting gender 50 percent of the time. If you'd like better odds than that (the kind you can base your nursery-paint colors on), ask at your ultrasound. Learn more about finding out the sex of the baby. Week 16 Pregnancy Symptoms Continued breast growth: Feeling overwhelmed by your ever-growing breasts? Dont worry after giving birth and weaning (if you choose to breastfeed) your boobs should return to about their prepregnancy size (give or take a few jiggles).

Constipation: Besides those pregnancy hormones causing your gastrointestinal tract to get sluggish, your expanding uterus is now putting pressure on your bowels, which can back things up significantly. Try increasing the amount of liquid you drink to keep everything moving along. Increased vaginal discharge: Though vaginal discharge is actually beneficial to your body (it protects the birth canal from infection), it may not feel comfortable. Dont be tempted to try douches or feminine wipes, however, since they can irritate the genital tract and lead to infection. Varicose veins: One way to minimize the swollen blood vessels in your legs? Keep your weight gain healthy and gradual (and stick within the recommended range) because extra weight increases the load on your circulatory system. Possible nasal congestion: Pregnancy hormones cause the mucous membranes in the body to swell, including those in your nose. If this leads to nasal congestion, irritation, and even nosebleeds, saline nasal sprays and nasal strips can offer some relief. Backaches: As your belly gets bigger, your lower back curves more than usual to accommodate the load, resulting in strained back muscles. Try to soothe these sore muscles by getting a prenatal massage (even from your partner) or taking a warm bath or shower. Bleeding gums: Have you noticed that your gums are bleeding after brushing? Thats because pregnancy hormones are causing gum inflammation, making them more susceptible to bacteria, irritation, and bleeding. While this is normal, its important to keep flossing and brushing regularly. Also see the dentist at least once during pregnancy to avoid gum disease, which can cause pregnancy complications if untreated.

Week 17 of Pregnancy
Your baby is practicing sucking and swallowing as she gets ready for the real thing: a breast or bottle! As for Mom, you may be warding off some unwanted belly touching.

Your Baby in Week 17 of Pregnancy My how your baby has grown! She's about the size of your palm, weighs about five ounces, and is developing some body fat (join the club, baby!). Her heart is now regulated by her brain (no more random beats) to beat 140 to 150 times per minute about twice as fast as yours! What else is up? Shes practicing the survival skills shell need at birth like sucking and swallowing. Learn more about your baby in week 17 and a babys body fat. Your Body in Week 17 of Pregnancy Now that you're starting to show, chances are that friends, coworkers, and even strangers may feel the urge to reach out and touch your belly. If you don't mind, that's fine. But if you do, speak up kindly but firmly. More new developments with your body: a slight vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) and a greater sensitivity to allergens these days both are totally normal and the appetite of a truck driver now that the queasy feeling is (probably) gone.

Learn more about your body in week 17 and your growing appetite. Week 17 Pregnancy Tip: Snoring If your partner finds your new snoring habit about as sexy as a hippo in a thong (which, by the way, you're starting to feel like), take heart. The stuffiness that often triggers world-champion snoring is common and temporary, another unexpected (make that inexplicable) side effect of those pregnancy hormones at work (thats right, even your nose is affected by pregnancy hormones!). Try putting a humidifier in your bedroom, using one of those nasal strips on your nose to open up your nasal passages (doesn't look pretty, but it works for some people), or sleeping on a couple of pillows to keep your head slightly elevated. And if he still complains, buy him a set of earplugs or banish him to the couch for the night; after all, it's more important that you get a good night's sleep these days. Learn more about snoring during pregnancy. Week 17 Pregnancy Symptoms Increasing appetite: Does your appetite seem insatiable these days? Thats because your growing baby is demanding more nourishment. Listen to your hunger pangs and eat when you need to; try to choose foods that fill you up and meet your nutrient needs (high-fiber grains, produce, and lean protein). Heartburn or indigestion: If you find yourself feeling the burn after a big meal, avoid lying down after eating to keep gastric juices in the stomach where they belong. Flatulence: As your uterus expands and puts pressure on your rectum, you may find it harder to control the muscles in that area which can lead to some gassy outbursts. One way to reduce the gas: Eat slowly (eating too quickly can cause you to swallow air, which can form gas pockets in your belly). Occasional headaches: Whether hormones, fatigue, tension, or some other culprit causes your headaches, its usually okay to take acetaminophen during pregnancy to alleviate the pain. But check with your practitioner first.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Dehydration can cause dizziness, so make sure you stay hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day (aim to drink more than that if youve been exercising). Backaches: Ease this common pregnancy symptom by making sure you have a supportive chair at work and a firm mattress at home. Otherwise, get a cushion for your chair to place behind your back so you can keep your posture in line, and place a board underneath your mattress to firm it up. Stretch marks: This badge of pregnancy is hereditary, so if you start finding some stretch marks on your body, it may be because your mother had them too. But if you gain weight at a steady rate (instead of in big spurts), this may keep the stretching gradual and, as a result, less extreme.

Week 18 of Pregnancy
You might start to feel your baby moving around anytime now, which is a great way to take your mind off your bothersome back.

our Baby in Week of 18 of Pregnancy Your pregnancy back pain may have you tied up in knots (see below), but your baby's getting ready to bust a move. At five and a half inches long and five ounces in weight, he now may be large enough for you to feel him twisting, rolling, kicking, and punching his way around the womb. Plus, he's developing yawning and hiccupping skills (you may feel those soon, too!) and his own unique set of toe and fingerprints. Learn more about your baby in week 18 and the fetal nervous system. Your Body in Week 18 of Pregnancy Oh, my aching back! If you've uttered those words more than once this week, here's why: Your uterus, now about the size of a cantaloupe, is causing your body's center of gravity to shift, pulling the lower back forward and pushing the abdomen out (so now everyone can see that youre pregnant!). On top of all that, jointloosening pregnancy hormones are wreaking havoc on your muscles and ligaments, adding up to one big ouch!

Learn more about your body in week 18 and your shifting posture. Week 18 Pregnancy Tip: Heartburn Forget the chili burrito with extra jalapeos sometimes even a bite of toast will set your gut on fire these days. That's the heartbreak of heartburn an all-too-common symptom that can persist throughout your pregnancy. An ounce of prevention may be worth a pound of Tums (though you might want to keep the pound of Tums handy too especially because they'll banish the burn while boosting your calcium intake). For starters, eat slowly and chew thoroughly (no eating lunch on the run or gobbling your dinner standing up), eat smaller meals and snacks rather than fivealarm gut bombs, sit upright for a few hours after eating (or as long as you can last without collapsing into bed), and sleep with your head elevated (it helps with the snoring anyway). And do skip anything on the menu with a picture of a flame next to it! Learn more about eating well in the second trimester. Week 18 Pregnancy Symptoms Fetal movement: If youve noticed an unusual rumbling in your tummy these days, you may be starting to feel your babys movements in the womb! But dont worry if you havent felt anything out of the ordinary it may take a few more weeks for you to pinpoint those first kicks. Flatulence: Finding it hard to contain the gas bubbles? Try to relax tension can cause you to swallow air and add to the problem. Varicose veins: If the varicose veins in your legs are starting to itch or ache, consider wearing support hose, which applies pressure to the legs and give blood a little upward push toward your heart. Put them on before you get out of bed in the morning to prevent the blood from pooling. Leg cramps: As if it werent enough that your precious sleep is interrupted by trips to the bathroom to pee, now you may find yourself suddenly woken up during the night by shooting spasms in your calves. Experts arent entirely sure what causes them, but you can help fend them off by doing calf stretches before hitting the sack.

Bleeding gums: Those pesky pregnancy hormones cause mucous membranes in your body (including those in your mouth) to swell, which can mean inflamed, irritated, and bleeding gums. Continue to floss and brush regularly, but try not to be too aggressive in your technique since this can further aggravate sensitive gums. Stretch marks: If the appearance of a new stretch mark has got you feeling down, heres an activity that may cheer you up get your partner to rub moisturizing lotion over your belly. And maybe even get him to give you a massage while hes at it! Mild swelling of ankles and feet: As your body tissues accumulate fluid (your pregnant body requires extra fluid to support you and your baby), you may notice swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid tends to pool there thanks to the law of gravity). Reduce water retention in your feet by avoiding standing or sitting for long periods and try to keep your legs elevated when you can. Skin, hair, and nail changes: While you may have been hoping for a pregnancy glow, you may have gotten eczema, redness, or acne instead. These skin conditions are perfectly normal during pregnancy (blame those hormones again), but if you choose to see a dermatologist, be sure to mention that youre expecting. Some skin medications like Accutane and Retin-A are not safe during pregnancy.

Week 19 of Pregnancy
Your baby's skin now has a protective coating, while you might be hoping for something to protect you from painful leg cramps.

Your Baby in Week 19 of Pregnancy Have you ever seen a mango dipped in cheese? Well, that's what your baby looks like this week due to a little growth spurt (she's about a half pound in weight and six inches long) and a substance called vernix caseosa. This greasy white stuff covers your baby's skin, protecting it from the surrounding amniotic fluid. (Without it, she'd look totally wrinkled as she entered the world.) The vernix sheds as delivery approaches, though some babies still sport a bit of the coating at birth. Learn more about your baby in week 19 and a babys protective coating. Your Body in Week 19 of Pregnancy One minute you're lying peacefully in bed and the next your calf muscle feels like it's about to explode. Leg cramps during pregnancy are pretty common (no one knows exactly what causes them, but muscle fatigue or compressed blood vessels are the likeliest culprits) and tend to strike at night. You might also be wondering about tingling and numbness in your fingers and toes about now. It's a weird

sensation but totally normal, probably a result of your body's swelling tissues pressing on nerves. Learn more about your body in week 19 and leg cramps during pregnancy. Week 19 Pregnancy Tip: Feeling Baby Kick Your sister said she felt her baby kick by this point in her pregnancy and so did your best friend but so far, you haven't felt a thing. Except those gas bubbles this morningthose were gas, weren't they? Maybe, maybe not. Those first tiny kicks can be felt many different ways anytime, on average, between week 18 and week 22 as the merest flutter or the most insistent slug. Or as gas bubbles that aren't gas at all (that's how I felt it that first time and for days I was sure it was just all the dried fruit I'd been eating). Some of it has to do with your size (the thinner you are, the more likely you are to feel movements earlier), some of it has to do with your muscle tone (the laxer the uterine muscles, the easier it is to feel those kicks which is why second-timers generally feel them sooner), some has to do with the baby's position (when the baby kicks facing in, it's more difficult to perceive the movements). Also, an inaccurate due date can have you doubting whether that was your babys momentous first kick. Don't worry there's no mistaking the real thing once your baby gets that technique down and gets big enough to pack a serious punch. Learn more about fetal movement during pregnancy. Week 19 Pregnancy Symptoms Hearty appetite: Having a hard time staying away from the fridge (and cupboards and pantry)? Keep tempting junk foods out of the house, and instead fill your kitchen with nutritious goodies but do occasionally allow yourself to indulge in sinful treats so that you dont end up bingeing on them. Constipation: If you cant seem to get regular, take a look at your supplements and medications; some of them, such as iron, can make constipation worse. Ask your practitioner to help you come up with some alternatives until your digestive system gets back on track.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your growing uterus may put pressure on your blood vessels (among other parts of your body), reducing blood flow to your brain and causing you to feel light-headed. Even though dizziness is common, dont ignore it take it easy and sit or lie down as soon as you start to feel woozy so that you dont hurt yourself or the baby. Possible nasal congestion: Is the swelling in your nasal passages making it hard for you to breathe? Heres how to blow your nose without damaging nasal membranes and causing a nosebleed: Use your thumb to close one nostril, and blow gently out the other side. Lower abdominal achiness: The ligaments that support your uterus are getting stretched as your uterus expands which can cause lower abdominal achiness (or round ligament pain). Try to make yourself as comfortable as possible and avoid changing positions suddenly because this can trigger pain. Backaches: As your uterus grows, you may find your center of gravity shifting forward, putting extra pressure on your lower back. Avoid straining your back further by letting others lift heavy loads for you. If you absolutely must lift something, stabilize yourself by assuming a wide stance, bend at the knees (not at the waist), and slowly lift with your arms and legs, not your back. Stretch marks: About 90 percent of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, so youre not alone. While there is no proven cure, moisturizers such as cocoa butter can help ease the dryness and itching associated with stretched skin.

Week 20 of Pregnancy
Boy or girl? You can find out this week through a routine ultrasound!

Your Baby in Week 20 of Pregnancy Curious about whether that melon-sized belly contains a boy or a girl? Now's your chance to take a peek! Your second trimester ultrasound, scheduled for anytime between 18 and 22 weeks, gives your practitioner a chance to see how things are going in there. And, wow, are they going! If you're having a girl, her uterus is now fully formed and her ovaries are holding about seven million primitive eggs. If you're having a boy, his testicles have begun their descent from the abdomen to their ultimate destination the scrotum. And while your baby is definitely getting bigger (weighing in at about ten ounces and measuring six and a half inches), there's still plenty of growing room in there, which allows him to twist and turn (and allows you to feel his acrobatics!). Learn more about your baby in week 20 and finding out the babys gender. Your Body in Week 20 of Pregnancy

Now that youre at the midpoint of your pregnancy (20 weeks down, 20 more to go!), that little cantaloupe (aka baby) you have in your belly is becoming more of a reality as you feel his movements and draw smiles from passersby who see your baby bump. You might also be noticing that your nails are stronger (though they could also turn dry and brittle) and your hair (all over your body) is thicker and fuller than usual all thanks to pregnancy hormones and increased circulation, which furnish extra nutrients to hair and nail cells. But while the hair on your head may be lovelier than ever, you might not be digging those sprouts on your chin. This situation is indeed temporary, but feel free to tweeze! Learn more about your body in week 20 and hair and nail growth during pregnancy. Week 20 Pregnancy Tip: Appetite Are you in the Hunger Zone? With weeks of nausea and food aversions behind you, you may be more than ready to make up for lost eating time (move over crackers, hello four-course meals!). But before you dig into that all-you-can-eat buffet at lunchtime, here's something you might want to consider. The grazing approach that was your mealtime MO during those queasy months is still the best way to feed yourself and your baby now that food's no longer a four-letter word. Not only does it help fend off pesky second-trimester tummy troubles (like the heartburn and indigestion that's sure to set in by your second trip to the buffet), but it also ensures that baby's getting a steady supply of calories when he needs it the most. In fact, studies show that moms who eat at least five or six small meals and snacks a day are more likely to carry to term. So bring on the grub when pregnancy hunger hits, and lots of it just bring it on a little at a time. Learn more about the pregnancy diet. Week 20 Pregnancy Symptoms Heartburn or indigestion: If youre looking for a simple heartburn fix, try chewing a piece of sugarless gum after meals. The increased saliva it produces neutralizes gastric acids and helps force fluids back into the stomach.

Increased vaginal discharge: As your pregnancy progresses, youll notice an increase in vaginal discharge. While it can be uncomfortable, this discharge actually helps protect the birth canal from infection and maintains a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina. Occasional headaches: Do you find that your headaches crop up when youre overheated, in windowless, stuffy spaces, or under fluorescent lighting? Be sure to take fresh-air breaks outside a few times a day, and dress in layers to avoid getting too hot, which could trigger a headache. Occasional faintness or dizziness: Stuffy, hot rooms can be the cause of lightheadedness (not just headaches), especially when your body is already generating lots of heat with that little bun youre cooking in your oven. Stay cool by taking frequent breaks for fresh air and wearing loose-fitting clothes. Leg cramps: Experts arent clear on what causes leg cramps during pregnancy, but one theory is that they are caused by compressed blood vessels in the legs (a consequence of extra weight and swelling). Help the blood circulate throughout your body more easily and minimize cramping by putting your feet up when you can and drinking plenty of fluids. Mild swelling of ankles and feet: If water retention in your ankles and feet is causing you pain, be sure to wear comfy (not tight!) shoes while youre out, and switch into slippers when you get home. Also, avoid tight socks or pantyhose that can cut off blood flow you want to keep fluids flowing freely to minimize swelling in your lower extremities. Protruding navel: Your cute little innie belly button may suddenly morph into an outie as your uterus pushes your abdomen forward. If you dont like the new look, dont worry your navel will go back to being an innie after delivery.

Week 21 of Pregnancy
Your baby is grazing on whatever you are right now, but those stretch marks are yours alone, Mom.

Your Baby in Week 21 of Pregnancy How big is your baby? About the size of a large banana and speaking of bananas, if you eat one this week, there's a good chance your baby will get a taste, too. That's because he swallows a bit of amniotic fluid each day (for nutrition, hydration, and to practice digesting), so he eats whatever's on your menu and gets to put those developing taste buds to good use. So go ahead and nosh on those nachos (or crunch those crudits): Your baby may develop a taste for them when hes older. Learn more about your baby in week 21 and a babys developing taste buds. Your Body in Week 21 of Pregnancy You may start to notice some stretch marks as your body expands and your belly and breasts just keep on growing. These pink, red, or purple streaks appear when the supporting tissue under your skin gets torn as skin stretches (and stretches and stretches) during pregnancy. Not every woman gets them, though you're a likely candidate if your mom had stretch marks during her pregnancy or if you've gained

weight rapidly. So go ahead and slather the cocoa butter at least itll keep your skin from drying out, even if it wont keep those marks at bay. Learn more about your body in week 21 and stretch marks. Week 21 Pregnancy Tip: Anxiety No, that's not the beach ball you lost last summer there's really a baby in there! Now that you're starting to look pregnant (and not just like you were spending too much time with the Ben & Jerry's) and those kicks can no longer be mistaken for gas, the reality of pregnancy is probably beginning to sink in. And with it, you may find, a few ambivalent feelings you're even ambivalent about admitting. Don't worry and hang on. At some point in pregnancy (and usually once that pregnancy becomes a very visible reality) just about every expectant mother (and father!) begins to feel anxiety and fear as though she's on a runaway train with enormous changes coming round the bend. And not only is it completely normal to feel anxious it's especially healthy to acknowledge it. Talk your feelings over with your friends who've had babies theyll reassure you that they experienced the same kind of anxiety. (Me a mom? There must be some mistake!) Most important, discuss your fears with your partner, who's probably just as in need of a good heart-to-heart. Learn more about staying sane during pregnancy. Week 21 Pregnancy Symptoms Fetal movement: By now you may be able to feel your baby twisting, turning, and kicking in the womb (though many new expectant moms mistake the feeling for gas). Enjoy these first gentle love taps soon enough your growing babys kicks will get more aggressive. Hearty appetite: Are you always in the mood to eat? Carry healthy snacks with you (such as nuts, raisins, trail mix, or granola bars) so that youll have nutritious fuel to keep you and your baby-to-be nourished even when youre on the go. Flatulence: The increasing pressure your uterus is placing on your rectum can mean that youre having a hard time containing yourself (your gas, that is). Drink

plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods to avoid becoming constipated, which can make gassiness worse. Varicose veins: The extra blood volume and weight youre carrying around can put pressure on your circulatory system and lead to the swollen blood vessels called varicose veins. Do your best to keep your weight gain to a healthy minimum to avoid putting undue stress on your circulatory system. Backaches: Not only is your center of gravity shifting and putting extra strain on your back, but the hormone relaxin is also causing your ligaments and joints to stretch and loosen, which means additional achiness in your back. If you can, splurge for a prenatal massage from a trained professional. Bleeding gums: If your inflamed, bleeding gums are turning your toothbrush pink, avoid eating sticky candies, especially when you cant brush afterward. The sweet stuff increases bacteria in your mouth and further irritates your gums. Skin, hair, and nail changes: Have you noticed that your hair and nails are growing at record speed? Pregnancy hormones are partly the cause as is the increased circulation in your body, bringing extra nutrients to your hair and nails (and to your baby, of course).

Week 22 of Pregnancy
These days, the only things growing more rapidly than your baby's senses may be her mommy's feet

Your Baby in Week 22 of Pregnancy This week, your baby weighs in at a whopping pound and measures nearly eight inches, about the size of a small doll. But your little doll (who now has eyebrows, eyelashes, and maybe even some hair on that little head) is a living one who can now perceive light and dark. She can also hear your voice, your heartbeat, your gurgling stomach, and the whoosh-whoosh of blood circulating through your body. And as her brain and nerve endings develop, she may reach for her face (or whatever she can reach) just to experiment with her newfound sense of touch. Learn more about your baby in week 22 and a babys hair growth. Your Body in Week 22 of Pregnancy As if an ever-expanding belly wasn't enough now your feet are getting in on the act! That's because the pregnancy hormone relaxin, which loosens your pelvic ligaments when you're expecting, loosens every other ligament too including the ones in your tootsies. In turn, the bones beneath those ligaments spread slightly,

which results, for many women, in a half or whole shoe-size increase. So if you haven't already stashed away your stilettos, now's the time to bid them farewell at least for a while. Besides, you need sensible shoes to help you balance that big belly and your changing center of gravity. Learn more about your body in week 22 and swellingduring pregnancy. Week 22 Pregnancy Tip By now you may have been the target of at least one well-wishing tummy-toucher you know, those people (and they could be anyone friends, co-workers, the guy you buy your morning paper from, a perfect stranger on the deli line) who just can't resist reaching out and rubbing your belly. And who can blame them? After all, pregnant bellies so round, so cute, and housing something even cuter practically beg to be touched. Now, at 22 weeks pregnant, you may not mind being treated like an exhibit at a children's museum (and, if you're a touchy-feely person yourself, you may even welcome the public display of affection for your belly), but if you do mind, there are a couple of approaches you can take. One, use your words ("I know it's tempting, but I really would rather you didn't touch my belly"). Two, back off literally, dodging their advances. And three, turn the tables by giving their belly a rub to see how they like it (especially effective with middle-aged men sporting paunches). Remember, you're sharing your body on the inside you don't need to share on the outside too. Week 22 Pregnancy Symptoms Heartburn or indigestion: Your growing uterus is starting to take over your abdominal cavity, which can help push gastric acids from your stomach up through your esophagus resulting in the burning pain you may feel. Avoid aggravating heartburn by drinking before and after meals instead of with them (too much fluid mixed with too much food will distend the stomach and make heartburn worse). Constipation: That growing uterus is also putting pressure on your bowels, making it harder to move waste out of your system. Give things a jump start by exercising regularly, which encourages bowel movements.

Increased vaginal discharge: If youre finding your vaginal discharge to be heavy these days, remember to keep clean and dry (if you like, use a panty liner), which will help prevent the odors that sometimes accompany this pregnancy symptom. Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your ever-expanding uterus can put pressure on your blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to your brain and cause lightheadedness. Help keep your blood pumping through your circulatory system by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day (more if its hot or youre working out). Leg cramps: Some experts theorize that leg cramps during pregnancy may be caused by a shortage of calcium or magnesium in the diet. Reduce the frequency of these painful spasms by taking your prenatal vitamin daily. Stretch marks: Noticing stretch marks not just on your belly but also on your hips, thighs, and breasts as well? Go ahead and rub moisturizer all over your body it may not be a miracle cure, but its worth a shot and it will help ease dryness and itchiness. Protruding navel: Not loving your new outie belly button? After delivery it will revert back to an innie but be prepared for the fact that you will probably be left with a slightly larger belly button.

Week 23 of Pregnancy
Baby is getting (a little) plumper, but Mommy may notice something completely different when she glances at her own belly: the linea nigra.

Your Baby in Week 23 of Pregnancy Your little doll-sized babe is about to chub up a bit. His saggy skin will start to fit his frame as fat deposits fill things out. Beginning this week, he'll start to pack on the pounds (which means you will too!) and by month's end he'll be double the weight he is now (though you won't be whew!). Right now, your baby's organs and bones are visible through his skin, which has a red hue due to developing veins and arteries beneath. But once those fat deposits settle in, he'll become less transparent. Learn more about your baby in week 23 and fetal weight gain. Your Body in Week 23 of Pregnancy If you're suddenly sporting a dark line down the middle of your tummy, say hello to the linea nigra. That line has actually always been there, but you probably never noticed it until pregnancy hormones caused hyperpigmentation (the same phenomenon that may have darkened your areolas and the area around your forehead and cheeks). Other (less than delightful) skin changes on your body in the

sixth month may include red palms and soles, bluish blotchy legs, heat rash, and skin tags. Oh, and dont forget that itchy belly (keep slathering on those creams!). Learn more about your body in week 23 and the linea nigra. Week 23 Pregnancy Tip: Relaxation Techniques Is your growing bundle of joy making you a quivering bundle of nerves? Breathe, baby! (Yeah, you!) Now's a great time to learn some soothing relaxation techniques not just because they can help you cope with pregnancy worries (and sooner than you think, with labor contractions), but because they'll come in handy in your life as a new mom (for the times when the baby's on a crying marathon, your spouse is working late, you just burned the last clean pot, and your mother's on the phone again). Yoga's a fabulous de-stresser, if you have time to take a class (plus it can help you learn how to focus on breathing, something we just do automatically). But here's a technique you can use just about anywhere, anytime, to soothe your soul. Sit with your eyes closed and imagine a beautiful, peaceful scene (a sunset over your favorite beach, waves gently lapping the shore; a serene mountain vista, complete with babbling brook). Then, working your way up from your toes to your face, concentrate on relaxing every muscle. Breathe slowly, deeply, only through your nose and choose a simple word (such as yes or one) to repeat aloud every time you exhale. Ten to 20 minutes should do the trick, though even a minute or two is better than nothing. Hey, wake up! Learn more about pregnancy and meditation. Week 23 Pregnancy Symptoms Fetal activity: You may be getting used to feeling your babys movements in the womb. Cherish these light kicks now before they get more pronounced (and painful) and before your little mover and shaker gets a foot caught in your ribs! Hearty appetite: Its perfectly normal to find yourself wanting to devour the contents of your kitchen cabinets and fridge (you have a growing baby to feed!). So try to stock your home with healthy snacks such as fruit, cut-up veggies, nuts, and whole-wheat crackers.

Bloating: If you cant seem to shake that ate-too-much feeling, youre experiencing the effects of progesterone. The hormone causes the gastrointestinal tract to relax and slow down digestion, so that the nutrients from the foods you eat have more time to enter your bloodstream and reach your baby. Help keep things moving through your system (and out of your already bulging belly) by drinking plenty of water. Forgetfulness: Are you consistently forgetting your keys, appointments, and where you parked the car? Pregnancy brain is likely caused by those pesky pregnancy hormones and since its completely normal (and temporary), try to laugh it off and refrain from being too hard on yourself. Snoring: This fairly common (and annoying) pregnancy symptom can disrupt your sleepand your partners. Partly due to nasal congestion (caused by extra weight and swollen mucous membranes in your nose), you can alleviate the nighttime nasal noises by wearing a nasal strip at bedtime and running a warm-mist humidifier in your bedroom. Tingling hands (carpal tunnel): Swelling during pregnancy can put pressure on nerves in the wrists and cause the aching and tingling associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. If you work at a computer all day, take frequent hand-stretching breaks and make sure your wrists are straight and your elbows aren't higher than your hands when youre at your desk. Bleeding gums: Reduce irritation to your gums (which are swelling more than usual these days due to hormones), by avoiding chewy sweets, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist at least once while youre expecting.

Week 24 of Pregnancy
Your baby's facial features are really filling outand your belly button may be really popping out!

our Baby in Week 24 of Pregnancy Your baby is about eight and a half inches long and weighs one and a half pounds, gaining steadily at a rate of six ounces per week. Much of that weight comes from accumulating baby fat, as well as from growing organs, bones, and muscle. Those little ears of hers are getting sharper and can hear very loud sounds, from a yapping dog to a jackhammer. Also by now, that fabulous face is almost fully formed, complete with eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair. Is your baby a brunette, a blonde, or a redhead? Actually, right now her locks are white since there's no pigment yet. Learn more about your body in week 24 and fetal hearing. Your Body in Week 24 of Pregnancy If your former innie is now an outie, welcome to the club. Almost every expectant mom's pregnant belly button pops at some point as her swelling uterus pushes on everything in its path. Things should return to normal after delivery, though your navel (and some other parts of your body) might look a bit, well, stretched. Just

think of it as one more badge of honor that only moms get to wear. What other pregnancy woe is pushing your buttons? Well, probably your uncomfortably numb wrists and fingers, thanks to carpal tunnel syndrome. (Dont worry the sensations will disappear when you give birth.) Learn more about your body in week 24 and carpal tunnel syndrome. Week 24 Pregnancy Tip: Red, Itchy Palms Sure, you'd heard that pregnancy comes with a variety of symptoms, most of them not very pleasant (actually, none of them very pleasant unless you count fastgrowing hair, nails, and breasts). But maybe you didn't expect so many seemingly random symptoms such as the red, itchy palms that have nothing to do with the amount of dishwashing you're doing. The red may spread, too, to the soles of your feet (though you're less likely to notice that once your feet become more difficult to see). Though this is a relatively normal symptom (especially this far into pregnancy) be sure to mention it to your doctor there's a chance it could indicate a rare pregnancy complication called cholestasis. Along with virtually all the stranger symptoms you'll be experiencing as the months go by (such as the metallic taste in your mouth, skin tags appearing out of nowhere, bigger feet, increased saliva am I drooling? and vision changes, to name a few), you can blame your hormones (and throw darts at them, if you like take that, progesterone!). As for getting the red out, there are no sure solutions besides delivery. Until then, avoid anything that makes the red redder such as being overheated, taking long, hot baths or showers, or wearing too-warm or too-tight gloves or socks. You might even try going on a dishwashing strike while you're expecting (good luck with that plan!). Just tell your spouse it's doctor's (and Heidi's) orders! Learn more about pregnancy symptoms and solutions. Week 24 Pregnancy Symptoms Constipation: There is a good reason for pregnancy constipation pregnancy hormones cause intestinal muscles to relax in order to keep food in your digestive system longer so you and your baby can absorb more nutrients. But just because it's

for a good cause, that doesnt make it pleasant. Drink lots of water and fruit and vegetable juices to get things moving faster through your system and to soften your stool, making it easier to pass. Occasional headaches: If you find that your headaches last for days, are severe, and are sometimes accompanied by nausea or vision changes, you may have migraines. Let your practitioner know about your migraines and keep a journal recording what you ate, where you were, and what you were doing before you experienced a migraine so that you can pinpoint your migraine triggers and start to avoid them. Lower abdominal achiness: As your uterus continues to expand, the ligaments that support your uterus continue to stretch and may cause some pain. Occasional achiness in this area is normal, but if the discomfort is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, or bleeding, see your practitioner. Backaches: Back pain is quite common during pregnancy, but if your discomfort is severe, ask your practitioner to refer you to a specialist such as a physical therapist or acupuncturist. Leg cramps: When leg cramps start to cramp your style, try straightening your leg and gently flexing your ankle and toes up toward your shins several times. This can stop the spasm. Vision changes: Are your contact lenses bothering you lately or is your vision sometimes blurry? Pregnancy hormones can decrease tear production (causing eye irritation) and increase fluid buildup in the eye, temporarily altering your vision. This should pass shortly after delivery, so dont go out and get any new eyeglass or contact-lens prescriptions while youre expecting. Mild swelling of ankles and feet: Dont be alarmed if the swelling in your feet has caused you to grow out of your favorite shoes. Simply do what you can to avoid letting body fluids (which increase during pregnancy) pool in your legs so that means elevating your legs when youre sitting.

Week 25 of Pregnancy
As baby prepares to take his first breath, pesky hemorrhoids may make you swear under yours.

Your Baby in Week 25 of Pregnancy Your baby is growing by leaps and bounds, reaching nine inches in length and passing the pound and a half mark. Under his skin, capillaries are forming and filling with blood and by week's end, air sacs (also lined with capillaries) will develop in his lungs, getting them ready for that first breath. Mind you, those lungs aren't ready for prime time just yet but they are developing surfactant, a substance that will help them expand after birth. And speaking of breathing, your baby's tiny nostrils, which have been plugged up until now, are starting to open, and his vocal chords are getting ready to roar. Learn more about your baby in week 25 and a babys lung development.

Your Body in Week 25 of Pregnancy Let's face it, some pregnancy ailments are a real pain in the butt, especially hemorrhoids! More than half of all pregnant women experience swollen, itchy veins in the rectum due to that big old uterus pressing down as well as to increased blood flow to the area. And while they're not dangerous to your body, hemorrhoids can be downright painful so try your best to avoid them by eating right (and avoiding constipation, which aggravates those pesky piles), doing pelvicfloor exercises (Kegel exercises), and trying not to strain when you poop. With any luck, theyll go away after delivery (and yes, you probably are getting tired of hearing that phrase!). Learn more about your body in week 25 and hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Week 25 Pregnancy Tip: Dental Health Want to keep your baby safely inside you until term? Put your dental floss where your mouth is. Surprisingly, research links good dental health and oral hygiene with longer pregnancies. Sounds crazy doesn't it? Crazy, but true. Something as simple as brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly can reduce the risk of gingivitis a common condition in which your gums become inflamed, red, and even begin to bleed. Untreated gingivitis (that's where the regular dental checkups come in) can progress to periodontitis a more serious infection of the teeth which has been linked to premature birth and even an increased risk of preeclampsia. Keep on top of your teeth, and that old (untrue) wives' tale the one that claims that a woman loses a tooth with each pregnancy can finally be put to rest. Learn more about preventing premature labor. Week 25 Pregnancy Symptoms Heartburn or indigestion: Does it feel as if stomach acids are burning up your esophagus and setting fire to your chest? Always have some Tums or Rolaids nearby so you can cool your heartburn as soon as it strikes.

Snoring: Snoring is quite common during pregnancy since increased blood flow to mucous membranes in your nose can cause congestion. But if you find your snoring is seriously interfering with your sleep, this could be a sign that you have sleep apnea (which can deprive you of oxygen) so ask your practitioner about it. Tingling hands (carpal tunnel): Increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause swelling that puts pressure on nerves in the wrists, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome. Ask your practitioner about wearing wrist braces, or consider trying acupuncture to alleviate the pain and tingling. Varicose veins: The extra blood volume you produce during pregnancy also puts pressure on your blood vessels and causes them to bulge, resulting in varicose veins. Help keep blood circulating by avoiding clothes that are binding. Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): If youre feeling pain in the pelvic area, you may be experiencing SPD, caused by relaxed and stretchy ligaments that normally keep your pelvic joint (the symphysis pubis) aligned. Stay on top of your Kegel exercises and pelvic tilts, which will strengthen the muscles in that region, and if pain is severe, ask your practitioner for a referral to a physical therapist. Restless legs syndrome (RLS): As if you didnt have enough to worry about with tingling hands, you may also feel a tingling in your legs accompanied by an urge to move them. Ask your practitioner to test you for iron-deficiency anemia since some experts think its linked to RLS; keep a food journal too some women find that a sensitivity to certain foods makes symptoms worse. Skin, hair, and nail changes: Because normal daily hair loss is suppressed by pregnancy hormones, you may notice that your hair feels thicker and more lustrous than ever before. Enjoy it now after delivery, all the hair that didnt fall out during pregnancy will shed.

Week 26 of Pregnancy
Major excitement: Your baby opens her eyes! On the flip side, you might wish yours would stay closed so you could get some sleep.

Your Baby in Week 26 of Pregnancy What's up with your baby? She now weighs a full two pounds and measures nineplus inches. And this week, her eyes, which until now were developing under fused eyelids, start to open. Of course, there's not much to see in there, but if your baby spots a bright light (or hears a loud noise) near your belly, you may notice an increase in fetal activity. (Hey, I'm in here, Mommy! Wheres the party!) What accounts for that response? Her brain is more developed and sophisticated. Learn more about your baby in week 26 and a babys eye development. Your Body in Week 26 of Pregnancy If a full night's rest has become elusive, welcome to the (sleepless) world ofpregnancy insomnia. Between heartburn and leg cramps, bathroom runs and that big beach ball (with its protruding navel!) beneath your nightie, it's no wonder your body's having trouble calming down and drifting off. But there are lots of tactics to try that should help keep you in bed (and asleep!) instead of pacing the floor; these

include daytime exercise, a daily dose of fresh air, and limiting fluids before you hit the hay. Learn more about your body in week 26 and yourprotruding belly button during pregnancy. Week 26 Pregnancy Tip: Baby's Movements in the Womb Feel like you're carrying the Karate Kid with all the kicking going on? Your baby is actually practicing all kinds of movements that will eventually be used in life on the outside including pedaling against your belly, a sort of prewalking skill. As your baby's nervous system becomes more developed, the movements will become much more coordinated. And as the baby gets bigger and stronger, the movements will become much more powerfuland occasionally, even painful to you. If your baby lands a good one, that tiny left hook might hurt a lot. Another trick she may try stretching that leg out so far that the foot becomes lodged between your ribs (ouch). Next time you come under attack, try changing positions or doing some stretches of your own. You can also gently push your baby back with your hand when your kneejerker jerks a little too hard. You just might be able to send your slugger back into the corner of the ring! Learn more about fetal movement during pregnancy. Week 26 Pregnancy Symptoms Bloating: Your expanding uterus continues to put more and more pressure on your stomach and intestines, resulting in the bloating you probably feel. Minimize the problem by eating several small meals a day instead of three large ones so that you dont overload your digestive system. Increased vaginal discharge: If youre tempted to use special washes and wipes marketed to keep the vagina clean or odor-free, dont bother. They can be irritating and change the pH in your genital tract. Instead, bathe frequently and wear panty liners (if you like) to stay clean and dry. Occasional headaches: Some women who have a history of migraines have them more often when theyre pregnant (some lucky ducks experience fewer of them), so

dont be surprised if yours flare up more these days. Since strong migraine medications are probably off-limits for you now, consider holistic therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, massage, meditation, and yoga (these techniques can also help reduce stress, which is a migraine trigger). Forgetfulness: Has pregnancy brain caused you to forget some crucial meetings or bits of information lately? While this decrease in memory is temporary and totally normal, try writing key things down in a trusty notepad or your PDA to help you stay organized for the rest of your pregnancy. Clumsiness: Your loosened joints, shifted center of gravity, and added weight are just a few of the factors that cause you to slip, trip, and fall more often than usual. This clumsiness is temporary, but for now, be extra careful in the tub, shower, and on other slippery surfaces. Lower abdominal achiness: If the growing pains caused by your expanding uterus (technically called round ligament pain) are feeling particularly achy lately, get off your feet when you can and get as comfortable as possible. Also, remember to shift positions slowly so as not to aggravate the pain. Vision changes: If your eyes are feeling irritated, thats probably because pregnancy hormones decrease tear production, which leads to dry eyes. Use eye drops to ease the discomfort, and be sure to tell your practitioner if you develop serious vision problems since this could be a sign of gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

Week 27 of Pregnancy
Your baby moves on to a whole new growth chart this week, while your swollen feet and ankles may need a growth chart of their own!

Your Baby in Week 27 of Pregnancy For a baby, it's time to trade in the old crown-to-rump measurement for a new head-to-toe standard. So what are your babys stats this week (which, coincidentally, is the end of the second trimester)? Fifteen inches more than a foot long and triple (or even quadruple) what it was in week 12. His weight is creeping up the charts as well, coming in at just over two pounds. More big news: Your baby may recognize your voice by now, so feel free to serenade your belly (start learning those lullabies!). Learn more about your baby in week 27 and a babys sense of taste and sound. Your Body in Week 27 of Pregnancy Puffy? That's to be expected about 75 percent of soon-to-be moms experience edema (mild swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles) around this point in pregnancy. That's because fluids build up in your body tissues thanks (or no thanks) to increased blood flow and uterine pressure on the vena cava (the large vein that cycles blood from your lower limbs to your heart). So while you may have a hard time squeezing into shoes or getting your rings on (or off), keep in mind that the puff factor is completely normal and temporary.

Learn more about your body in week 27 and swelling and edema during pregnancy. Week 27 Pregnancy Tip: Your New Navel Has your innie been outed? Is it poking straight through your clothes these days, like a timer on a well-cooked turkey? Don't worry: There's nothing novel about navels that pop during pregnancy just about every belly button does at some point. Still, two questions may now come to mind as you glance down at your bulging belly: One what can you do now that your protruding navel has taken on a larger-than-life life of its own? And two will your button ever becute as a button again? On the first, there's not much you can do (though this is a great opportunity to clean out all that lint). As your baby grows bigger and bigger, so will your belly button. If you find that the outie look doesn't quite work with the fashion statement you're trying to make, consider taping your protruding navel down with a Band-Aid. As far as what will happen postbaby? Your navel will revert inward after you give birth though it might be a bit wider and looser than before. My advice: Wear your reconfigured belly button proudly. Learn more about a protruding navel. Week 27 Pregnancy Symptoms Flatulence: Your growing uterus may be putting extra pressure on your rectum, causing you to lose some control over the muscles in your rear. Add your sluggish digestive system to the equation (thanks to pregnancy hormones that relax intestinal muscles) and you may find that youre particularly gassy. Try to eat six small meals a day (instead of three large ones) so you dont overtax your digestive system. Occasional faintness or dizziness: If you thought your days of feeling light-headed were over after your first trimester, think again; for some women, that bulging belly puts pressure on blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the brain and causes dizziness. Keep blood circulating and pumping to your brain by drinking plenty of water each day. Possible nasal congestion: High levels of estrogen and progesterone increase blood flow to the mucous membranes in your nose, causing them to swell. If your stuffy nose is making it hard for you to breathe at night or making you snore try wearing a nasal strip at bedtime to open up your nostrils. Restless legs syndrome (RLS): For some expectant women, it may feel as if their legs take on a life of their own tingling and jittery especially when they lie down at night. Talk to your practitioner about this (in some women RLS is linked to iron-deficiency anemia or a sensitivity to certain foods), and consider yoga or other relaxation techniques, which may help.

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): This weird pregnancy symptom develops when the hormone relaxin makes the ligaments in your pelvic joint too relaxed and stretchy, causing the pelvic joint to become unstable. If this is causing you pain, ask your practitioner about wearing a pelvic support belt (available online), which stabilizes the ligaments and helps keep the pelvic joint in place. Bleeding gums: Inflamed and irritated gums are quite common during pregnancy since ramped-up hormones may cause gums to swell and leave your mouth more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque. When you brush your teeth, remember to brush your tongue as well to minimize the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Skin, hair, and nail changes: Pregnancy hormones can cause hyperpigmentation of the skin particularly if you have darker skin to begin with. This can result in darker freckles or moles, a dark line down the center of your tummy (linea nigra), or patches of darkened skin on your face (called chloasma). Dont worry, most discolorations fade a few months after giving birth just do your best to stay in the shade since sunlight can intensity hyperpigmentation.

Third Trimester of Pregnancy

You and your belly may be two-thirds of the way there, but your baby still has plenty of growing to do. Here's more on what to expect in the third trimester of pregnancy. It may feel as if there's no way your belly can get any bigger, but there's no doubt about it your belly will get bigger over the course of the third trimester of pregnancy. Alot bigger (surprise!). Your little one will get a whole lot larger too as he grows from about 2 1/2 pounds and 16 inches long (in week 28 of pregnancy) to between six and nine pounds and 19 to 22 inches long in week 40. He'll also be testdriving some nifty skills like blinking and dreaming and regulating his own body temperature. By week 31 of pregnancy he'll get signals from all five senses, perceiving light and dark, tasting what you eat, and listening to the sound of your voice (I hear you, Mommy!).; By week 32 of pregnancy, his formerly see-through skin will become opaque. He may grow an inch in week 33 alone, so don't be surprised if his increase in size paired with a decrease in living space leads to some serious kicks and pokes in the gut for you.

During week 34 of pregnancy a baby boy's testicles start their downward journey from abdomen to scrotum (bon voyage!). A baby's noggin turns southward too, settling into a heads-down, bottom-up position. By week 36, you've got about a sixpounder in there, with fat continuing to accumulate (Look Mom, I'm gaining too!). Two weeks to go in week 38 as your baby sheds his vernix (the waxy substance that protects his skin from your amniotic fluid) and lanugo (the hairy coat that keeps him warm in there). All's pretty quiet through week 39, though you may find yourself waddling as your little bundle drops even lower in your pelvis. Week 40 of pregnancy: Congrats! Even though you may not have delivered, you've made it to the official end of your pregnancy. Latecomers (at least 50 percent of all babies) may not be ready for their big debut until week 41 or even week 42, but hang in there. With that busy baby inside your belly, you're probably feeling lots of fetal activity. You may also be experiencing (totally normal) abdominal achiness and maybe even a few Braxton Hicks contractions as you get closer to the end of the third trimester. There may be somevaricose veins and stretch marks (badges of courage!), but try to keep your eye on the prize: your beautiful baby whom you'll meet in just a month or so! Chances are you're having some crazy dreams and some clumsy moments, along with a temporary lack of bladder control (you sneeze = you pee!). As D-day approaches, your breasts may leak (your milk machine's warming up) and you may experience false labor symptoms . Not to worry. You'll know the real thing when it happens, signaled by the bloody show, your water breaking, and contractions that intensify, rather than diminish, the more you move around. At checkups, expect tests for glucose levels, anemia, and group B strep during months seven and eight. In month nine, your practitioner will perform an internal examination of your cervix to see if effacement and dilation (respectively, the thinning and opening of your cervix) have begun. Getting excited? You should be it won't be long now until you meet your baby!

Week 28 of Pregnancy
Your baby has started blinking and dreaming while you may be dreaming that the pain in your derriere will disappear!

Your Baby in Week 28 of Pregnancy Your baby is settling into the proper position for birth, with his head facing downward (toward your body's nearest exit!). Your little work in progress is now about 2.5 pounds and almost 16 inches long. He's busy adding new skills such as blinking to an already impressive repertoire of tricks like coughing, sucking, hiccuping, and taking practice breaths. Your baby's sleep now includes the REM (rapid eye movement) phase and that means he could be dreaming already (what do you suppose he's dreaming about?). Learn more about your baby this week and fetal brain activity. Your Body in Week 28 of Pregnancy While it's good news that your baby is settling into the right position for childbirth (since you're now entering the third trimester), the potentially painful news is his head plus the weight of your uterus may now be sitting on your sciatic nerve, which runs through the lower part of your back, buttocks, and legs. This common condition (calledsciatica) can cause sharp, shooting pain and/or tingling or numbness, starting in your rear end and radiating down the backs of your legs. The best thing to do for sciatica (and the rest of your week 28

aches and woes)? Take it easy and hope your baby changes position sooner rather than later. Learn more about your body this week and sciatica during pregnancy. Week 28 Pregnancy Tip: Choosing a Childbirth Class Okay, students: Your due date is still months away, but school (or at least a childbirth ed class) is in session so start taking notes. You'll graduate from one of these classes with all the skills (and know-how) you and your labor coach need to get through delivery with honors. You can choose a class at the hospital or with a local instructor, but sign up early so you can finish several weeks before your due date. Ask whether your course includes lessons on infant care, CPR, and breastfeeding (it should). Have special needs? There are classes for second-timers who need to brush up on their techniques, classes for moms who are attempting a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), and classes designed for those expecting multiples. There are even intensive classes taught over a weekend at resorts, which can double as a couple's getaway. Whichever class you choose, make sure your instructor is certified by a national childbirth education organization. And here's a bonus: Your insurance company may cover your tuition, so be sure to submit your bill.

Week 29 of Pregnancy
Your baby's packing on the pounds, which look so cute on her. If only you could say the same for your varicose veins.

Your Baby in Week 29 of Pregnancy How big is your baby this week? She weighs nearly three pounds now and measures about 17 inches. Though she's getting pretty close to her birth length, she still has to chub out a bit. In fact, over the next 11 weeks, she'll more than double or even come close to tripling her weight. And as she grows and the room in your womb gets tighter, you'll be less likely to feel those big kicks and more likely to get poked by an elbow or jabbed by a knee. Learn more about your baby in week 29 and baby fat. Your Body in Week 29 of Pregnancy Unsightly yet harmless, varicose veins are simply swollen blood vessels that often surface on your body for the first time during pregnancy, especially if your mom or grandma had them. You may have a mild case (minor achiness and swelling) or you may be unlucky enough to experience real pain and bulging blue veins, usually from the ankle to the upper thigh. There are things you can do to alleviate this veiny situation, including watching your weight, keeping your blood flowing, and avoiding heavy lifting. Learn more about your body in week 29 and varicose veins during pregnancy.

Week 29 Pregnancy Tip: Counting Baby's Kicks Have you counted your baby's kicks today? Once you've passed week 28, you should be counting them every day. To make sure that you do and to make sure that everything's AOK in your belly make a habit of counting your baby's kicks twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Best to do your counting lying down (since babies are more likely to kick up when Mom's lying down a pattern they tend to continue after they're born). If you can't lie down, sit. Count any and all movements (even swishes and rolls) until you hit ten. If you haven't reached ten within an hour (your little Rockette may just be on her break right now), have a light snack and try again that blood-sugar rush is likely to get baby on the move again. Just remember that fewer than ten movements within two hours warrants a call to your practitioner. Chances are everything's fine, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. Learn more about fetal movement during pregnancy. Week 29 Pregnancy Symptoms Constipation: Pregnancy hormones cause your muscles (including those in your bowel) to relax, which can cause your system to get backed up. One way to get on track is to eat yogurt with the probiotic acidophilus (look for yogurt brands that contain live active cultures) since these beneficial bacteria can aid in digestion and help get things moving. Occasional headaches: When a headache (even a migraine) hits, alleviate pain by lying down in a quiet, dark room with a cold compress on your neck or forehead. Hemorrhoids: If the veins in your rectum have begun to bulge and pop out (as a result of increased pressure and blood flow to the pelvic area), reduce discomfort and irritation by using gentle wipes or warm water on soft toilet paper after bowel movements and, of course, drinking lots of fluids so your stool isn't hard. Forgetfulness: No wonder your brain feels especially foggy these days hormones are wreaking havoc on your memory and your brain-cell volume actually decreases during the third trimester. Try not to take this temporary pregnancy symptom to heart stressing about it will only cloud your pregnancy brain even more. Itchy abdomen: Your stretched-out belly can cause your skin to become dry and itchy. Apply moisturizer regularly and consider soaking in a warm oatmeal bath to ease the itch. Skin, hair, and nail changes: Even though your nails may be growing faster than ever, pregnancy hormones may also cause them to become dry and brittle. Trim them regularly. Difficulty sleeping: If heartburn is keeping you up at night, avoid eating too much and chowing down too close to bedtime. Also, avoid coffee or chocolate in the evening since these energizers will make it harder for you to get to sleep.

Week 30 of Pregnancy
Your baby's brain is getting smarter by the minute, but for Mom, the only thing that smarts right now may be heartburn pain.

Your Baby in Week 30 of Pregnancy Your bellys increasing size is a definite clue that your baby is getting bigger every day, weighing in at over three pounds now (hell be packing on the weight at a rate of half a pound per week for the next seven weeks). Also growing daily is his brain, which is actually starting to look like the real thing with those characteristic grooves and wrinkles. And now that your little genius can regulate his own body temperature and turn up the heat, he'll start shedding lanugo, the downy body hair that's been keeping him warm up until now. Learn more about your baby in week 30 and fetal brain development.

Your Body in Week 30 of Pregnancy These days you may feel as if you've got a flamethrower in your chest. Heartburn is one of the most common (and annoying) pregnancy ailments and here's why: The same pregnancy hormones that cause your body's pelvic muscles to relax so you can deliver your baby also relax the ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach. The upshot? Food and digestive juices can head upstream from your tummy into your chest and throat hence, the infernal inferno. Your expanding uterus, now exerting pressure on your stomach, only fuels the fire. Learn more about your body in week 30 and heartburn during pregnancy. Week 30 Pregnancy Tip: Cord Blood Banking The big day is coming, so here's a big question: What is cord blood, and should you consider banking or donating your baby's? First, a definition: Cord blood is what remains in the umbilical cord and placenta following birth. So why is this blood so important? Because cord blood contains stem cells that can be used to treat certain diseases, such as cancers. This safe and painless procedure is performed just after the baby is born (all it takes is about five minutes). More and more parents are saving their baby's cord blood, either for donation to a public facility so the cells can be used by others in need, or for private storage so it's available should the need arise within their own family. Whichever you choose (and it's okay if you choose not to at all), you should talk to your practitioner about it now so all the necessary prep work can be done. Learn more about cord blood banking. Week 30 Pregnancy Symptoms Stronger fetal activity: You can expect to feel your baby moving every day sometimes with a punch or a kick (your itty-bitty boxer is getting stronger!), other times with a wiggle or a stretch. You can also expect more activity after youve had a snack or meal and (sadly!) when youre lying down.

Flatulence: As your uterus expands it puts pressure on your rectum, which can weaken muscle control and lead to uncontrollable passing of gas. Drink plenty of water to avoid constipation (which aggravates the condition). Bloating: Your expanding uterus (that third-trimester culprit) is pressing into the stomach and intestines, making that bloated feeling worse this week (and for the next several weeks). Eat smaller (and more frequent) meals to avoid overloading your digestive system. Constipation: Even if you managed to conquer constipation earlier in your pregnancy, you may have to contend with a return to more-sluggish bowels (thank your ever-expanding uterus, which is putting pressure on your bowels). Remember that fluids and fiber are your friends, as are probiotics (you can find them in yogurts). Occasional faintness or dizziness: Its a common pregnancy symptom, but mention it to your practitioner (especially if you do faint). You can stop a dizzy spell by lying down and elevating your feet as soon as you feel light-headed. Bleeding gums: Thanks to pregnancy hormones, your gums could be swollen, inflamed, and even bleeding. Although bleeding gums are common (and will probably go away after delivery), take extra-good care of your teeth and gums right now: Brush and floss twice a day. Stretch marks: As your skin stretches to accommodate your growing belly and body, you (and 90 percent of the pregnant set) are probably starting to see the pink or red streaks known as stretch marks. Theres no miracle cure for stretch marks, so dont blow the bucks on expensive creams that promise to make them disappear. (Creams will soothe your itchy belly, though.) Mild swelling of ankles and feet: About 75 percent of pregnant women suffer from puffy ankles and feet. Besides wearing comfy shoes, you can relieve your swollen tootsies by taking breaks and putting your feet up. (You deserve it!) Fatigue: Your second trimester get-up-and-go may have upped and left now. Your growing baby is putting more demands on your body, and insomnia may be leaving you pooped during the day. Nows the time to ask for help (a skill that will come in handy after childbirth), especially doing something strenuous.

Week 31 of Pregnancy
As your baby's senses increase, his mommy's breathing room decreases.

our Baby in Week 31 of Pregnancy Weighing in at three-plus pounds and measuring 18 inches long, your baby is quickly approaching his birth length though he's got to pack on another three to five pounds before D-day. Also developing at an impressive clip: your baby's brain connections (he's got to make trillions of them!). He's now processing information, tracking light, and perceiving signals from all five senses. He's also putting in longer stretches of sleep, which is why you're probably noticing more defined patterns of wakefulness (and movement) and rest (when hes pretty still). Learn more about your baby in week 31 and fetal activity in the womb. Your Body in Week 31 of Pregnancy Chances are your diaphragm is feeling a little cramped these days. Okay, a lot cramped. That's because your uterus is pushing up against it (and all the other organs in there), crowding your

lungs and making it more difficult for them to expand fully. The result: Your body is spare on air and will be until your baby drops near the end of pregnancy in preparation for birth. But dont worry: Your baby is as happy as a clam because hes getting his oxygen from the placenta. Learn more about your body in week 31 and shortness of breath during pregnancy. Week 31 Pregnancy Tip: How a Baby Responds to Sex Parental lovemaking and orgasm can have an interesting effect on babies in the womb, as you may have noticed. Some babies are very quiet after their parents have sex (rocked to sleep by the rhythmic movement, perhaps) while others become frisky themselves (hey, where's the party?). Both responses are completely normal and in no way indicate that your baby is aware of the goings-onjust that he is having fun going along for the ride. So keep on enjoying your sex life and your orgasms as much as you like. And for as long as you can (which, with your practitioner's approval and a few advanced Twister-type moves, can be right up until delivery day). After all, pretty soon making love with a baby in the house won't be quite so easy or convenient. Learn more about sex and love during pregnancy. Week 31 Pregnancy Symptoms More frequent urination: Your uterus puts more pressure on your bladder in the third trimester, giving it less room to store urine. Cut down on the bathroom trips by double voiding: Pee, then when youre done, pee again. Thatll make sure youve emptied your bladder completely. Occasional headaches: If tension is twisting your head up in knots, try spending a few minutes in a dark, quiet room. If youre at work, close your eyes and put your feet up for 15 minutes. Varicose veins: Your growing uterus is also putting pressure on your blood vessels, which along with pregnancy hormones and increased blood volume creates the perfect set-up for varicose veins. Take a walk (or even better, several) during the day, or make sure to get in some other form of low-key, circulation-boosting exercise. Possible nasal congestion: As if a swollen belly, feet, and fingers werent enough, now you may be contending with swollen nasal passages, making for one stuffy feeling. Youll get relief when you deliver, but until then saline sprays or nasal strips can help clear up the stuffiness. (Antihistamines and nasal sprays are usually off-limits, but check in with your practitioner for other recommendations).

Lower abdominal achiness: Blame that growing belly of yours again for those growing pains around your middle. The best thing to do? Yep, you know the drill: Get off your feet for a while. Backaches: That burgeoning belly can also do a number on your back as it curves to accommodate the load. If you havent already, now is the time to incorporate some prenatal yoga into your exercise routine the stretches will relax your back (and your mind!). Increasing clumsiness: Your shifting posture (not to mention your increasing girth) and lack of concentration (see below) may make you clumsier these days. Take it easy when youre climbing into the shower or tub and roll up any area rugs that could trip you up at home. Forgetfulness: Welcome to mommy (to-be) brain a condition thats a result of shrinking brain-cell volume in the third trimester (dont worry your brain cells go back to normal a few months after delivery). Dont stress out about your foggy memory (stress just makes it worse). Write things down (or program them into your smart phone) and delegate responsibility (if possible). Difficulty sleeping: This is another common third-trimester woe, caused by a constellation of other conditions, such as leg cramps, heartburn, frequent urination, and plain old anxiety (with a dash of pregnancy hormones). If tension keeps you tossing and turning all night, talk it out with friends (or other WTE members) or your partner during the day.

Week 32 of Pregnancy
Your baby is practicing survival skills like sucking and breathing, while your uterus is practicing some Braxton Hicks contractions.

Your Baby in Week 32 of Pregnancy What's up with your baby? She's starting to get ready for her big debut, tipping the scales at almost four pounds and topping out at just about 19 inches. In these past few weeks, it's all about practice, practice, practice as she hones the skills she'll need to thrive outside the womb from swallowing and breathing to kicking and sucking. And speaking of sucking, your little one has been able to suck her thumb for a while now. Something else to note: As more and more fat accumulates under your baby's skin, she's becoming less transparent and more opaque. Learn more about your baby in week 32 and a baby's position in the womb. Your Body in Week 32 of Pregnancy This week, your body may start prepping for delivery day by flexing its muscles literally. If you feel your uterus bunching or hardening periodically, those are practice contractions, otherwise known as Braxton Hicks. These rehearsals (typically experienced earlier and with more intensity in women who've been pregnant before) feel like a tightening sensation that begins at the top of your uterus and then spreads downward, lasting from 15 to 30 seconds (though they can sometimes last two minutes or more). How do you know these contractions

arent the real thing? Theyll stop if you change position (try getting up if youre lying down or walking if youve been sitting). Learn more about your body in week 32 and Braxton Hicks contractions. Week 32 Pregnancy Tip: Ultrasound Photos Ultrasound is a tried-and-true prenatal tool (and a window into the wonderful world of your womb), but lately this procedure has taken a giant leap from the confines of a doctor's office to a storefront at the mall. Is it safe to take a peek inside your tummy on the way to Sears? While the FDA has yet to establish rules on these prenatal photography studios, they do warn against having ultrasounds for fun (as opposed to for medical reasons), since such threedimensional imaging machines use much higher power than the typical ultrasound machines at your doctor's office. And many medical professionals fear that nervous moms-to-be will come away mistakenly convinced there's something wrong with their babies, or, worse, that the untrained wand wavers will miss real problems that would be detected by a pro. If you do choose elective sonograms, do so wisely (and after you check with your practitioner for the goahead). While there's nothing more precious than seeing your baby in three dimensions (except, of course, seeing your baby for real once it's born), limit your visits to one or two, each no more than 15 minutes in length. And bring your wallet! Some studios charge up to $300 for a photo, CD-ROM, and a video of the fetus. Learn more about ultrasounds. Week 32 Pregnancy Symptoms Flatulence: To minimize that gassy feeling, aim for eating six small meals a day (versus three large ones) so that you dont strain your digestive system (which is being taxed enough by your growing belly bearing down on it). Bloating: Your slower metabolism (which has slowed down to give the food you eat more time to enter the bloodstream and nourish your baby) can cause bloating. Stick to your pregnancy diet and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation (see below), which aggravates bloating. Constipation: Your growing uterus is cramping your bowels, making them sluggish and irregular. Get some regular exercise (anything helps, from brisk walks to prenatal yoga), and drink up! Occasional faintness or dizziness: Feeling faint or light-headed can be a result of any number of things, including low blood sugar. Dont forget to carry a protein-and-carb-rich

snack in your bag to munch on when you feel dizzy. Granola bars, trail mix, or soy chips are a great choice, and may keep light-headedness at bay. Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids, which are actually varicose veins in the rectum, can be a pain in the rear (literally!), especially if you spend a lot of time sitting. Ice packs or witch hazel can soothe, as can warm baths. Leg cramps: Just as youre ready to drift off to dreamland you may feel a painful spasm in your calves though no one is quite sure what causes the pain (or why its worse at night). One theory: a lack of calcium and magnesium in your diet. Ask your practitioner if taking an extra calcium supplement is a good idea, and be certain youre devouring your dose of daily dairy (bring on the cheese and yogurt!). Itchy abdomen: That swelling belly is getting itchier and itchier, as the skin stretches and dries out. If slathering on creams and moisturizers doesnt help, try calamine or some other type of anti-itch lotion that soothe more-stubborn cases. Or add oatmeal to your bath and have a soak in warm (not hot) water. Enlarged breasts and colostrum: As your breasts get bigger in the third trimester, they may also leak a yellowish fluid called colostrum, which is the precursor to breast milk. This liquid, packed with protein and antibodies, is the first milk your baby will get. If the leaks are getting uncomfortable, try wearing nursing pads.

Week 33 of Pregnancy
Your baby's immune system gets a boost, while her sleepless mommy could use a boost of energy.

Your Baby in Week 33 of Pregnancy Your baby is still gaining weight (about half a pound a week), and she could grow up to another full inch this week. With that much baby inside your uterus, your amniotic-fluid level has maxed out, which explains why some of her pokes and kicks feel pretty sharp these days. (There's less fluid to cushion the blows.) Antibodies are being passed from you to your little one as she continues to develop her own fetal immune system, which will come in handy once she's outside the womb and fending off all sorts of germs. Learn more about your baby in week 33 and the fetal immune system. Your Body in Week 33 of Pregnancy With midnight bathroom runs, leg cramps, heartburn, and your basketball-sized belly, it's no wonder sleep is elusive. Third-trimester insomnia strikes about threequarters of pregnant women (who may also be coping with a mind that races all night long thinking about your to-do-before-the-baby-comes list). But your body

needs rest, so do your best to get comfy before bed and when you get in it. Grab a pile of pillows, wedge them where you need to, and look on the bright side: Pregnancy insomnia is great training for those sleepless nights to come! Learn more about your body in week 33 and insomnia during pregnancy. Week 33 Pregnancy Tip: Omega-3 Fatty Acids Studies suggest that infants born to mothers whose diets contain plenty of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) have an edge in terms of early development. So if you eat your wild salmon, will your kid go to Harvard? Maybe, maybe not. But fish is a great source of DHA, which is critical to brain and vision development. (Almost all of a baby's accumulation of DHA occurs during the last trimester.) DHA may also help prevent preterm labor and protect against postpartum depression. But haven't you heard that fish is unsafe for pregnant women? Actually, the FDA says you can eat up to 12 ounces (two average meals) a week of a variety of fish and shellfish that are low in mercury, such as shrimp, tilapia, red snapper, salmon (wild is best, organic farmed next best), pollack, and catfish. Steer clear of swordfish, shark, and fresh tuna, which are more likely to contain toxins. Hate fish? Other DHA sources include algaederived supplements (check your health-food store and with your practitioner) and DHA eggs, available in most supermarkets. Learn more about eating well during pregnancy. Week 33 Pregnancy Symptoms Stronger fetal activity: You can test for fetal movement twice a day in the morning and evening. Check the clock and start counting every wiggle, roll, kick, or flutter until you reach ten. If by the end of the hour you havent felt at least ten, have a snack or some juice, lie down, and resume counting. (Your baby just may have needed an energy-boost, too!) Occasional headaches: Third-trimester fatigue can sometimes trigger headaches now, so make sure youre getting plenty of rest. But try not to make up for loss of sleep by napping too much during the weekends oversleeping can lead to headaches, too.

Varicose veins: Sure theyre ugly (and sometimes painful), but if youre worried that your varicose veins can be harmful too, you can relax. The good news? If you didnt have them before you got pregnant, theyll disappear soon after you give birth. Lower abdominal achiness: If your belly is aching when you change positions or get up suddenly, you could be suffering from round ligament pain (or growing pains). As long as its occasional and you dont have fever, chills, or bleeding along with it, theres nothing to worry about. Getting off your feet (and getting comfy) helps. Nail changes: Pregnancy hormones can make nails grow faster but can also cause them to become brittle. If your nails are brittle, try getting lots of biotin in your diet (stock up on bananas, avocados, nuts, and whole grains) and try gelatin capsules, which are safe in pregnancy. Protruding navel: Your belly button may have popped by. Is there anything you can do about it? Not really but it will pop back in a few months after you deliver. Shortness of breath: That burgeoning belly is pushing anything out of its way including your lungs, which cant fully expand. Its more uncomfortable for you than it is for your baby, who is getting the oxygen she needs from the placenta. What helps? Standing as straight as you can so that your lungs have a little more room. Increasing clumsiness: A bigger belly means a shift in your center of gravity and that can spell clumsiness. What to do about it? Slow down and take it easy rushing will only make you clumsier. Forgetfulness: That foggy brain could be caused by your babys gender. Strange but true: Women pregnant with girls tend to be more forgetful than those moms-tobe who are carrying boys. Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions are most often felt by moms whove already gone through a pregnancy. How do you know theyre not the real thing? Even at their most intense, changing your position (from sitting to lying down, from lying down to walking around) will usually make them disappear.

Week 34 of Pregnancy
A boy baby's testicles descend this week (whoopee!), but Mom should also look out below and above as her vision becomes less sharp.

Your Baby in Week 34 of Pregnancy What's new this week? Your baby is clocking in at five pounds and could be as tall as 20 inches by now, and the vernix (the white coating protecting your babys skin) is getting thicker. This week, a boy's testicles start making their way down from his abdomen to their final destination: his scrotum (look out below!). While about three to four percent of boys are born with undescended testicles, it's nothing to worry about they usually head downtown before junior turns a year old. In other baby-related developments, those tiny fingernails have probably reached the tips of his fingers by now and getting ready for that first postpartum manicure. Learn more about your baby in week 34 and baby gender differences. Your Body in Week 34 of Pregnancy

You're not seeing things at least not as well as usual. That's because your eyes are yet another part of your body that falls prey to those pesky pregnancy hormones. Not only can your vision seem less sharp these days, but also a decrease in tear production can leave your eyes dry and irritated, especially if you wear contact lenses. Plus, an increase in fluid behind your eyes lenses can temporarily change their shape, making some women more nearsighted or farsighted than usual. Happily, these vision changes during pregnancy are all temporary. Things should clear up as your eyes return to normal after delivery (so there's no need to change your prescription just yet). Learn more about your body in week 34 and changes in your vision during pregnancy. Week 34 Pregnancy Tip: Recording Memories for Your Baby You've got so many hopes and dreams about your baby, and each one is worth remembering and sharing. Record them (before you forget) by writing a letter or a series of letters to your baby. Feel a little funny writing to the boarder of your belly whom you've never met? Don't just speak from the heart. Start by visualizing your baby, and writing down what you see in your mind's eye. (Gorgeous? Of course! Brilliant? No doubt!) Talk about what this pregnancy means to you and how it's changing your body and your world. Recount the foods you craved (the cheese, grape jelly, and pickle sandwiches) and the lengths you went to satisfy those cravings (driving six miles out of the way to the one deli that would make it). Relay how you chose your baby's name (you have chosen it by now, haven't you?) or the colors for the nursery. Share your reaction when you first found out you were pregnant; when you felt those first kicks; when you found out your baby's sex (if you have). Imagine what your future will be like together (do you see yourself pushing a swing in the park, tossing a football on the front lawn, baking muffins in the kitchen?) and what your baby's future might be like. (A movie star? A scientist? The president dream big!) Open up your heart, put the contents on paper and seal it with a kiss. Your letter to your baby is certain to become one of your mosttreasured possessions and eventually, your child's. Learn more at staying sane during pregnancy. Week 34 Pregnancy Symptoms Flatulence: As your third trimester progresses, you may be getting gassier. Anxiety just makes those gassy feelings worse you tend to swallow more air when youre stressed so try this tension tamer: Breathe deeply through your nose and out through your mouth for a minute or two each day.

Constipation: Need to rev up those slow-moving bowels? Rough up your diet with some dried fruits, fruits and veggies, and whole grains. One thing you dont want to do take laxatives (even herbal ones). Get your practitioner on board before taking any medicine for constipation. Increased vaginal discharge: As your pregnancy progresses, you could see an increase in vaginal discharge. Blame pregnancy hormones (especially estrogen) for this symptom they increase blood flow to the pelvic area and stimulate the mucous membranes (making your juices flow). Wearing undies with a cotton crotch can keep you drier (and that can curb odors). Hemorrhoids: Constipations almost constant sidekick? Hemorrhoids. These pesky piles can be kept to a minimum by doing Kegels, which can improve circulation to the area. Backaches: Your shifting center of gravity from back to belly puts more pressure and (ouch!) pain on your lower back. There are many solutions to cure your aching back, so if one doesnt work, another most certainly will. One to try: Take a break and stretch, stand, or walk. Sitting too long can make your back hurt even more. Leg cramps: Leg cramps are most common around now, when the three main culprits pregnancy weight, swelling, and fatigue are at their peak. If you feel a spasm, try standing on a cold surface (that can sometimes stop one). Stretch marks: If youre fair-haired and have a genetic predisposition toward stretch marks, youre more likely to get them than someone whos darker-haired (or skinned). But no matter what your skin or hair color, you can try to keep these classic marks of maternity to a minimum by keeping your weight gain slow and steady. Mild swelling of ankles and feet: As you get bigger and your body tissues accumulate and retain fluids, you may experience swelling in your ankles, feet, and fingers. Slipping into comfy slippers at the end of the workday can help soothe your swollen tootsies. Hair changes: You knew your hair would grow faster and more lustrous while you were pregnant, but you probably didnt expect it to grow in places you werent expecting like your cheeks, chin, and back. Waxing is safe during pregnancy; but since skin is extra-sensitive now, ask for a formula for sensitive skin. Shortness of breath: As your pregnant belly gets bigger, your lungs wont be able to expand as fully, so you may feel winded, even after a trip to the bathroom. Sleeping propped on your left side can help at night, and just take it easy. Difficulty sleeping: If youre not worrying about your impending D-day, then leg cramps and trips to bathroom are banishing any chance of shut-eye. Try lulling yourself to sleep with a warm bath and a cup of warm milk and read a book or listen to music instead of surfing the net or watching TV (those activities can keep you up).

Leaking colostrum: As your due date approaches and the third trimester wears on, your breasts may leak colostrum yellowish pre-milk that will be your babys first drink. You wont be leaking more than a few drops, but if you feel uncomfortable, try nursing pads.

Week 35 of Pregnancy
A rapidly growing brain makes your baby's head weigh more and that means more pressure on Mommy's bladder.

Your Baby in Week 35 of Pregnancy Your baby is standing tall (so to speak) this week at about 20 inches and continues her steady weight gain (shes about 5.5 pounds). While she won't get much longer, she will continue to pack on the pounds including large amounts of baby fat right up 'til delivery day. Something else that's moving at a mind-boggling pace these day: fetal brain development! Theres a lot going on inside that tiny head, which is, by the way, still soft to allow an easier exit through the birth canal. Learn more about your baby in week 35 and fetal weight gain.

Your Body in Week 35 of Pregnancy Now that your baby is head-down in preparation for delivery, chances are your bladder is feeling the squeeze, causing you to leak a little every time you sneeze (or cough or laugh) or making you feel like you have an urgent need to pee all the time. Whatever you do, dont cut back on fluids! One way to improve your body's holding power instead: Do lots and lots of those pelvic-floor exercises called Kegels. They can help strengthen your pelvic muscles (important now and postpartum). Learn more about your body in week 35 and frequent urination during pregnancy. Week 35 Pregnancy Tip: Finding a Doula What's a doula? The literal translation is "woman's servant" (and that's just what you need isn't it? Along with a chefand a massage therapistand a chauffeur). But back to reality and to your pregnancy a doula can do double duty when you need her the most. First, there's the birth doula, a companion who's professionally trained to provide support and a hand to hold during labor. The other is a postpartum one. (Go to week 42 to read more about postpartum doulas.) A birth doula knows all about breathing and relaxation techniques for labor, as well as the best positions to bring relief for all that pain. Some laboring women actually find they need less pain medication or none at all when a doula is present (though a good birth doula will explore all pain-relief options with you and help you choose what's right for your situation). But her most-important role may be the emotional comfort she provides during a potentially frightening time, and that might be just what the doctor or midwife ordered. To find a doula, consult an agency, check the Resource Directory, or ask other moms for recommendations. Learn more about what to ask a doula before you hire one. Week 35 Pregnancy Symptoms Heartburn or indigestion: Is your heartburn getting worse this week? Thats because your growing baby is taking over your abdominal real estate and pushing your stomach up. Avoid eating while youre reclining or lying down after a big meal (no matter how tempted you are to get off your feet). Occasional headaches: If your head is pounding it could be for a number of reasons, including being overheated or stuck in a stuffy room. Take a break and go out for some air or open the window. Also ask your practitioner which pain reliever is safe (in moderation) during pregnancy. Most doctors will okay acetaminophen, as long as you dont overdo.

Varicose veins: Have the varicose veins in your legs begun to ache (or itch)? Though support hose probably isnt the hot-mama look you were trying to cultivate, it can help by giving the veins in your legs a little extra upward push to counteract the downward push your belly is giving them. Hemorrhoids: Varicose veins can pop up anywhere and those that appear in your rectum are called hemorrhoids. To soothe them, wipe yourself with warm water and toilet paper. If toilet paper is too harsh, switch to wipes. Bleeding gums: Your gums may still be bleeding or tender now. To boost gum strength, get plenty of vitamin C. Drink an extra glass of OJ, sprinkle berries on your oatmeal or cereal, and toss tomatoes in your salad. Skin changes: If youve suddenly got an itchy, bumpy rash on your belly, you could have PUPPP, which stands for pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy. The rashes are benign and cause no risk to your baby or to you, but theyre annoying. To soothe the itch, try applying aloe-vera gel after a shower or bath. Increasing clumsiness: Balancing your body gets harder this week as you waddle toward the finish line (just a few more weeks to go!). Continue to play it safe if you need to reach for something on a high shelf, ask your partner instead of climbing on a chair to get it. Forgetfulness: Youre probably getting more absentminded as you count down the weeks. Your brain-cell volume really is shrinking and your bouts of sleeplessness dont help, either. Expect the fog to lift a few months after your baby is born. Braxton Hicks contractions: You may be experiencing some contractions as your body gets ready for the real thing during labor. Havent felt one yet? First-time moms-to-be may not notice the flexing of their uterine muscles (which feels like your abdomen is tightening).

Week 36 of Pregnancy
Your baby's bones may be ready to rock and roll, but yours may be aching something awful right now.

Your Baby in Week 36 of Pregnancy Forget your aching back (and everything else!) by trying to focus on your baby, who is now about six pounds and 20 inches long, with soft bones and cartilage to allow a safer journey through the exit door. Most of her systems (from circulatory to musculoskeletal) are ready for prime time, though her digestion system which has done only practice runs so far will kick into gear as she takes her first suckle at the breast or bottle. Learn more about your baby in week 36 and fetal development. Your Body in Week 36 of Pregnancy It's a good thing your baby's almost done cooking, since your body may feel pretty "done" by now as well. For one thing, you're doing the full-term pregnancy waddle, the result of the hormone-triggered loosening and softening of your connective tissue. This is your body's way of getting ready to squeeze a big baby out of a small space. Unfortunately, those loose joints can lead to some pretty serious hip andpelvic pain but hang in there! Learn more about your body in week 36 and the pregnancy walk or waddle.

Week 36 Pregnancy Tip: Infant and Child CPR Classes Chances are you'll never have to use this skill, but knowing how to perform CPR on a newborn or a toddler is just plain smart. There are plenty of classes out there, including low- or no-cost options at your YMCA, hospital, community center, or local chapters of the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. (Your childbirth-education class might even include baby CPR in its curriculum.) Another option and a potentially fun one at that: Throw a CPR party at home, which allows you to share child-care resources (and appetizers) with other new parents. Whichever setting you choose, make sure you find a certified instructor (ask your practitioner for a referral) who will come equipped with "bogus babies" to practice on. (Good luck getting down on all fours to practice those first-aid breaths with your belly in the way!) Learn more about children's health. Week 36 Pregnancy Symptoms Changes in fetal activity: As your babys quarters get more cramped and she has less room to maneuver, expect her movements to change too. You should still feel her moving, but there will be less jabbing and kicking, and a lot more squirming. Heartburn or indigestion: As your stomach gets pushed up and squeezed by your uterus, you may feel like eating less at mealtimes. Thats not necessarily bad news. Smaller meals are better for your digestive system and may actually control heartburn. Flatulence: As if heartburn werent enough, youre probably passing gas and burping like a frat boy. This too shall pass (pun intended). In the meantime, go for smaller meals (which will help the heartburn) and try not to rush while eating (youll swallow more air). Constipation: If its getting worse, blame your belly again (a convenient scapegoat!). The same mini-meals that will help ease heartburn and flatulence are also a good way to counteract constipation and for the same reason. They wont tax your digestive tract as much. More frequent urination: Your baby might have dropped into your pelvis by now, crowding your bladder. So its no wonder youre going to the bathroom as much as you did during your first two months of pregnancy. Dont cut back on liquids your body needs fluids to stay hydrated now more than ever. Increased vaginal discharge, possibly tinged with blood: The discharge from your vagina may be increasing and getting thicker. Dont be shocked if you notice the mucus is pinkish, red, or brownish after youve had sex or a vaginal examination. That just means that your cervix, which is sensitive now and may be starting to dilate, has been bruised.

Pelvic pressure and discomfort: Feeling pretty heavy down there in the pelvic region? Thats your baby burrowing deep into the pelvis as she prepares for birth, with her head pressing down on your bladder, hips, and pelvis. Try some pelvic tilts, or take a (long) soak in the tub to give yourself a break. Itchy abdomen: Your belly might be stretched to the breaking point (or at least feel that way). Creams containing cocoa butter or vitamin E can soothe that itchy abdomen and bring some relief. (Better still, get your partner to rub it on your belly and do some bonding with the baby underneath!) Increased swelling of ankles and feet: Edema (pregnancy swelling) may be getting more noticeable now as your body retains more fluids. So not only will your ankles and feet be swollen, but your face and hands (and fingers) may be too. Keep drinking water and other liquids. All those fluids will help rid your system of excess sodium and other waste products, which will minimize swelling. Difficulty sleeping: Sleep may be more elusive than ever as you toss this way and that looking for the perfect position. Make sure your room isnt too stuffy (youre sure to feel overheated as the night wears on) by opening a window or lowering the thermostat. Fatigue or extra energy: Its normal to be tired by the time you hit week 36. But you may also get the burst of extra energy known as the nesting instinct a need to get organized and ready for the baby. If you do feel energized, take breaks to rest and eat.

Week 37 of Pregnancy
Your doctor may check for labor signs, while your baby prepares for birth by sucking, turning, and breathing in the womb.

Your Baby in Week 37 of Pregnancy Congratulations! You've got what is officially considered a full-term baby, even with three weeks to go. That doesn't mean he's finished growing in fact, he's still packing on about a half pound a week (at this age, the average fetus weighs about 6.5 pounds). That makes it a little crowded in your uterus, so hes probably not kicking as much, though hes probably stretching, rolling a bit, and wiggling (all of which youll be able to feel!). Right now, your little superstar is busy rehearsing for his big debut, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid (to get the lungs ready for that first breath), sucking his thumb (to prepare for that first suckle of milk), blinking, and turning from side to side. Learn more about your full-term baby in week 37. Your Body in Week 37 of Pregnancy Your body is going through its own preparations for childbirth as your practitioner starts looking for signs of labor. On the checklist: the baby's position in relation to your pelvis (engagement) and whether effacement (thinning of the cervix) and dilation (opening of the cervix) have begun. Your practitioner may also determine whether your cervix has begun to soften and move to the front of the vagina, another indication that labor is getting closer. Keep

in mind that these processes can occur gradually (over a period of weeks or even a month or more in some women) or overnight. So while they're clues that you're indeed progressing, they're far from sure bets when it comes to pinpointing the actual start of labor. Learn more about your body this week and dilation and effacement. Week 37 Pregnancy Tip: Perineal Massage Anxiously waiting for the big day to arrive? Don't just sit there massage your perineum! (Say what? Trust me, there's good reason for this piece of advice.) Perineal massage may help to gently stretch your perineum (that area of skin between your vagina and rectum), which in turn can minimize the "stinging" that occurs when a baby's head crowns during childbirth. It may also help you avoid an episiotomy and tearing. Here's how to massage your way to a looser (and easier, if youre lucky) delivery: First make sure your hands (or your spouse's, if he'll be taking on the task) are clean and your nails are trimmed. Next, lubricate your thumbs (here's where the K-Y jelly can come in handy literally again) and put them inside your vagina. Press down (toward your rectum) and slide your thumbs across the bottom and sides of your perineum, pulling gently outward (and forward) on the lower part of the vagina with your thumbs hooked inside. This helps stretch the skin in the same way your babys head will during birth. You can do this daily until D-day (and you can even continue the good work or have your practitioner take over during labor itself!)or not at all if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Learn more about preparing for labor and delivery. Week 37 Pregnancy Symptoms Changes in fetal activity: By the time your babys head is engaged in your pelvis, hell have a lot less room for any more than a twist or squirm. Whats important is that you feel some movement every day. Remember, though, that your baby is behaving like a newborn now and has interludes of deep sleep, when he barely moves at all. Heartburn or indigestion: If your heartburn is getting worse these days, try eating a handful of almonds. Other home remedies that may banish the burn: a tablespoon of honey in warm milk or some dried papaya. Cervical dilation or effacement: To get ready for labor, your cervix will dilate (open up) and efface (get thinner). For some women, the two take place gradually, over a period of weeks or months. Others can efface and dilate overnight. You wont be able to feel it, but your practitioner will be able to tell during an internal exam.

Bloody show: A pink- or brown-tinged mucus discharge means that the blood vessels in the cervix are rupturing as the cervix dilates in preparation for labor and delivery (it wont be long now!). Varicose veins: If the veins in your legs are acting up now, try sleeping on your left side, which is the best position for optimum circulation. Also try elevating your legs by putting a pillow under your feet. Both positions will keep the blood flowing. Pelvic pressure and discomfort: If your babys head is pressing into your pelvis, hips, and bladder, youll feel more pressure as the week wears on. If you feel really uncomfortable, invest in a belly sling that will support the weight of your belly and take pressure off your back (see below) and pelvis. Leg cramps: If leg cramps are making a misery of your nights, try drinking more fluids during the day and make sure youre eating enough calcium (those almonds youre munching for the heartburn come in handy again!) and magnesium. All three can help with leg cramps. Stretch marks: With your boobs and belly (and possibly butt) as big as theyve ever been, youve probably noticed those classic marks of maternity by now. Dont worry, theyll fade into silvery lines and turn into a badge of pride (or at least motherhood!) a few months after childbirth. Protruding parts: Your innie probably became an outie weeks ago, but you may notice that your nipples are also popping now all the better for a newborn to latch on when nursing. Forgetfulness: There are so many things to keep track of now (Is the camera charged and packed? Do you have a baby outfit washed and ready to bring to the hospital? How many dinners are stocked in the freezer?) that its no wonder youre walking around in a fog. Post reminders around the house and on your computer so you wont forget appointments. Difficulty sleeping: Youve heard that pregnancy insomnia is Mother Natures way to prepare you for the sleepless nights ahead, but try to squeeze in some shut-eye so you have enough energy for childbirth and beyond. Sleep in a little longer, nap when you come home after work or on weekends, and give yourself a relaxing routine when its time for bed.

Week 38 of Pregnancy
Your baby is producing surfactant, which will help him take those first breaths while you're producing colostrum, the precursor to breast milk.

Your Baby in Week 38 of Pregnancy Hey, your little one isn't so little anymore, weighing close to seven pounds and measuring 20 inches long. Fetal development is nearly complete as your baby tends to a few last-minute details like shedding the skin-protecting vernix and lanugo. He's also producing more surfactant, a substance that prevents the air sacs in his lungs from sticking to one another once he starts to breathe. Most of the changes this week are small but important: Hes continuing to add fat (so he can take advantage of all those photo ops by sporting a round, cute baby look!) and fine-tuning his brain and nervous system (so he can deal with all the stimulation that awaits him once he makes his entrance into the world). Learn more about how your baby prepares for birth in week 38. Your Body in Week 38 of Pregnancy Just as your baby is preparing for life outside the womb, your body is tending to its own final touches before the big day, one of which is getting that milk machine up and running. Part of the process is producing colostrums, a thin yellowish liquid that's the precursor to breast milk. Colostrum is full of antibodies that protect your newborn, and it has more protein and less fat and milk sugar (the better to digest it) than the breast milk that arrives later. Chances

are you're leaking colostrum so you might want to break out those nursing pads now. If you're not leaking but you are curious about this miracle substance, you can gently squeeze your areola to express a few drops. Learn more about labor preparation and colostrum. Week 38 Pregnancy Tip: Stocking Your Freezer Have visions of yourself, newly delivered domestic goddess, whipping up gourmet meals in those postpartum weeks? Dream on. Cooking will be the last thing on your mind or your to-do list during those first few weeks (make that months) after delivery. Trust me, fitting in a threeminute shower will trump it for sure, as will using the bathroom when the urge strikes. To avoid serving Cheerios for dinner on a nightly basis (realistically, there will be nights when you will), plan ahead. Do some cooking and stock your freezer now with individually packaged, simple heat-and-serve options that you (or he!) can get on the table in a flash. Label carefully, so you won't be left with UFOs (unidentified frozen objects). Good candidates for the freezer include hearty soups, stews, and casseroles, as well as minimeat loaves. Have the baking itch? Satisfy it, and stash away several trays of bran muffins (don't ask, you'll need them). Another plan-ahead tip? If you don't already have your favorite takeouts on speed dial, now's a good time to enter them. Learn more about preparing for childbirth. Week 38 Pregnancy Symptoms More frequent urination: If youre going to the bathroom a lot these days, its likely that your babys head is in your pelvis, and its making less room for your bladder. You may want to skip caffeine and any other diuretic drinks now. Just dont skip liquids altogether you need fluids now so you can stay hydrated as you get closer to delivering. Increased vaginal discharge: You may be experiencing more discharge now, and you may even pass the mucous plug a clear glob of mucus thats been corking your cervix throughout your pregnancy as your cervix dilates. Does this mean that labor is imminent? Maybe. But it could be days, or even weeks, away. Bloody show: The vaginal discharge can also be tinged a pinkish or brownish color as the blood vessels in the cervix rupture during dilation and effacement. Once your underwear (or toilet paper) is tinged pink or brown, it could mean that youll be face-to-face with your baby sooner rather than later. Diarrhea: Loose bowel movements are natures way to make enough room for the baby to emerge, so if youre having diarrhea this week it may mean that labor is imminent (yay!).

Drink lots of water and eat lightly broth, toast, and iced fruit pops are the way to go now. Skip fatty foods or anything thats fiber-rich. Itchy abdomen: One way to soothe an itchy belly? Slather on the vitamin E oil. In fact, you might want to stock up on an extra bottle of vitamin E capsules its also great for sore nipples, which are in your near future if youre planning to breastfeed. Increased swelling of ankles and feet: If swollen ankles and feet are getting you down, nows the time for some support hose, that is. Make sure the tops arent too tight if youre going for knee- or thigh-high hose. Put them on in the morning before the daily swelling starts. Difficulty sleeping: Your mind is racing so much you cant sleep. Dont turn on the computer to get on the message boards or search for info on labor and delivery. That will just keep you up longer when you do go to bed. Instead, grab something low-tech &mdsh; a book or a magazine and read for a bit. That will soothe you to sleep faster. Fatigue or extra energy: A change in energy levels is pretty common this week. You may be increasingly exhausted or you may get a burst of energy (also known as the nesting instinct) as you try to organize and clean the house before the baby comes. Go ahead and clean, but dont wear yourself out. Save that energy for childbirth instead of squandering it on a clean closet. Enlarged breasts and colostrum: Your breasts may be bigger than theyve ever been (though they will get even bigger!) and leaking colostrum. If theyre not leaky or bigger, dont worry. Neither is a sign that youll have difficulty breastfeeding (if thats what you plan to do). Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions may be getting more intense now. This is a good time to practice your breathing and visualization techniques. If your partner is around, make him practice along.

Week 39 of Pregnancy
Your baby's brain development is still in high gear, even as you may start to experience some definite signs of labor.

Your Baby in Week 39 of Pregnancy Coming down to the wire, your baby weighs around seven to eight pounds and measures 19 to 21 inches. Those measurements won't change much from now on, but her brain is still growing at an astonishing rate, a pace that will continue for the first three years of life. Her pink skin has now turned whitish (even babies who'll eventually have darker skin appear whitish now they haven't yet developed pigment). Her head may have dropped into your pelvis by now, which makes your breathing easier but walking harder. Learn more about your baby in week 39 and how fetal skills blossom. Your Body in Week 39 of Pregnancy The end (and a whole new beginning!) is in sight, so watch for the signs that your body is ready to get the show on the road. These include Braxton Hicks contractions; the rupture of the membranes (water breaking) that contain your amniotic fluid; the loss of the mucous plug (the cork of mucus that seals the opening of the uterus); and the bloody show (your capillaries rupture from the dilation and effacement of your cervix, causing any discharge to appear pink or red-tinged). Labor could be close (but no cigar yet!).

Learn more about your body in week 39 and the bloody show. Week 39 Pregnancy Tip: Preparing for a Cesarean Many hospitals and birthing centers are increasingly sensitive to an expectant mother's desire to be awake, comfortable, and with the people she loves both during and after delivery even if that delivery is via a C-section. These days, most will try to accommodate your requests in a nonemergency situation, so ask for what you want. (Sorry, but pizza is probably a no-go.) Here are some requests to consider: to use a mirror or have the screen dropped so you can see the baby emerge; to listen to music during delivery; to have your hands free to touch your baby immediately after birth; to have your partner cut the cord; and to breastfeed in the recovery room. This is one time when it pays to be demanding. Making surgical delivery as pleasant as possible helps reduce the possibility of postpartum depression and allows you to bond more quickly with your baby. Learn more about cesarean sections. Week 39 Pregnancy Symptoms More frequent Braxton Hicks contractions: If youve been experiencing these practice contractions, they may be getting stronger now. But if you havent had a contraction yet, dont worry. Braxton Hicks contractions are more common in second (and subsequent) pregnancies. Slowdown in fetal activity: As her living quarters become more cramped, you may notice a slowdown in fetal movement. Your babys coordination has improved and hes less likely to make involuntary jabs (even if he had the room). Heartburn or indigestion: Your heartburn may be at its peak now. Dont worry, relief is around the corner when you deliver. For relief now, drink liquids before or after meals instead of during. Bloody show or loss of mucous plug: The discharge from your vagina might be tinged with blood (either pinkish or brownish) as the blood vessels in the cervix rupture. Dont worry its a sign that your cervix is dilating, or opening up, and thats a good thing. Another event that may occur this week: The mucous plug may fall out (and into the toilet). Losing it isnt a sign that childbirth is hours away, but it does mean its around the corner. Rupture of membranes (possibly): Another sign that labor may be near if your amniotic sac breaks and gushes out fluid. But dont worry about causing a flood while youre standing in the grocery checkout line. Despite what youve seen in movies, most women are in labor (and in the hospital) by the time their water breaks. If yours does break, call your practitioner.

Diarrhea or nausea: As your body gets ready for childbirth, the muscles may loosen in your rectum, resulting in loose bowel movements. You may also suffer some nausea. Its important to keep drinking water to avoid dehydration. Hemorrhoids: If youre experiencing diarrhea, your hemorrhoids may actually be less painful now since youre not straining to move your bowels the way you did when you were constipated. Just be aware that pushing during labor can aggravate hemorrhoids, so stock up on all the soothers that brought you relief. Pelvic pressure and discomfort: Your babys head is putting pressure on your pelvis, making you feel uncomfortable. Other symptoms of discomfort could include menstrual-like cramps and indigestion, which can also be signs of early contractions. Backaches: Your backaches could be worse now as you count down the final weeks. You can soothe a sore back by getting into the shower and letting the warm water pulse onto your back.

Week 40 of Pregnancy
It's the official end of your pregnancy though your baby might not have gotten that memo. Hang in there!

Your Baby in Week 40 of Pregnancy Congratulations! This week marks the official end of your pregnancy. Your baby probably weighs anywhere from six to nine pounds and measures between 19 and 22 inches (though tons of perfectly healthy babies are smaller or bigger). The bones in his skull havent fused yet Mother Natures way of making it easier to get through the birth canal during labor and delivery. He now has enough fat under the skin to maintain his body temperature outside the womb (with a little help from those cute outfits and swaddling blankets that youve been stocking up on!). You (or actually the placenta) are still providing the antibodies hell need to fight off infections for the first six months of his life. And if you plan on breastfeeding, your milk will be giving him more antibodies thatll boost his immune system. Learn more about your baby preparing for birth in week 40. Your Body in Week 40 of Pregnancy When will your body know it's time to deliver this baby? Well, about half of all pregnancies go past the 40-week mark, but your baby's birthday will absolutely be sometime in the next two weeks, as your practitioner won't let you go longer than 42 weeks. One event that's not guaranteed before the onset of labor is your water breaking (the rupture of membranes

surrounding your baby that contain the amniotic fluid he's been living in for the past nine months). Despite what you see in the movies, very few women experience a public water breaking. In fact, more than 85 percent of expectant moms enter the birthing room with their membranes fully intact. Even if you do end up springing a leak, it's more likely to be a slow trickle than a big splash. Learn more about when your water will break. Week 40 Pregnancy Tip: Pelvis Size Many women share an unfounded fear of not being able to actually birth their baby. It does seem implausible that something so big (a six-or-seven-plus-pound watermelon) could squeeze through such a little space, but that's exactly what happens most of the time. Whether you're plus-size, petite, or any size in between, it's the size of your pelvis not your frame that matters. Mother Nature knows what she's doing (for the most part), and the majority of newborns are pretty well matched to the size of their mothers (if you're small-boned, chances are you're not carrying sumo baby in there unless, of course, you've eaten like a sumo wrestler during pregnancy). And your vagina knows what to do, too it stretches considerably during childbirth and then, miraculously, it tightens up again. (You can help that process along by doing your Kegels faithfully both before and after you deliver.) Even your baby knows what to do by molding his still-pliable head to fit through that tight squeeze. So dont worry! Learn more about your body in week 40 and labor and delivery. Week 40 Pregnancy Symptoms More frequent Braxton Hicks contractions: Wondering if those contractions youre feeling this week are the practice Braxton Hicks contractions or the real thing? If they dont increase in frequency or severity, or if they subside when you walk around or change position, then they are probably just practice contractions. Slowdown in fetal activity: Even though your babys movements have slowed down, he still should be moving around in there. How much movement is normal? You should be able to count ten flutters, wiggles, or rolls in an hour. Heartburn or indigestion: Your heartburn may be a thing of the past in a few days. In the meantime, get some relief by chewing gum after every meal (as well as popping those Tums). Cervical dilation or effacement: Although you wont feel your cervix opening or thinning out, it is probably happening this week. Dilation is measured in centimeters and effacement in

percentages; after an internal exam, your practitioner will probably give you the measurements. The cervix will continue to dilate (and efface) through early and active labor. Diarrhea or nausea: Your bowels take a beating during pregnancy and it seems as if they go from one extreme (sluggish) to the other (loose). This week, loose bowel movements may be a sign that your labor is imminent. So if you have other signs bloody show, your baby has dropped, your mucous plug has fallen out you may be meeting your baby face-toface soon! Pelvic pressure and discomfort: If your baby has dropped this week, the uncomfortable feeling in your pelvis may be traced to a certain someones little head bumping up against your hips and bladder. If you have the time, schedule a massage with a certified prenatal massage therapist; itll soothe the discomfort. Leg cramps: While no one really knows what causes those painful spasms in your legs, its a good bet that carrying around all that pregnancy weight (especially this week!) is a pain in the legs. When a spasm hits, gently flexing your ankle and toes back toward your shin can help. Difficulty sleeping: As tempting as it is to try herbal supplements or other over-thecounter sleep aids, dont. Instead, ask your partner for a relaxing massage Fatigue or extra energy: Changes in energy level are pretty common this week. Maybe youve been hit by the nesting instinct or maybe you just have an urge to slump in front of the TV and veg out. Dont worry both are completely normal, as is alternating between the two states.

Week 41 of Pregnancy
It's not unusual for a baby to be overdue and you to feel overdone, but you're apt to feel real labor pains anytime this week or next.

Your Baby in Week 41 of Pregnancy It seems like your baby has opted for a late checkout, quite a popular option judging by the numbers. Fewer than five percent of babies are born on their actual due dates and around 50 percent decide to overstay their welcome in Hotel Uterus, thriving well into the tenth month. Remember, too, that most of the time an overdue baby isn't overdue at all it's just that the due date was off. But your baby isnt just lounging around in there, waiting for his big day. His endocrine system is getting ready to produce stress hormones (you arent the only one whos stressed!), which hell need to survive outside the womb. Learn more about your baby in week 41 and fetal stress hormones. Your Body in Week 41 of Pregnancy Meanwhile, your body is as ready for birth as it will ever be. No one knows exactly what triggers real labor (though you're probably more concerned with "when" than "why" at this point), but it's believed to be a combination of factors. The intricate

process begins with the fetus, whose brain sets off a relay of chemical messages that stimulates a chain reaction of hormones in his mommy. Your water may break, and you may notice pink or red-tinged mucus (the bloody show) just before labor begins. Contractions start (early ones feel like an upset tummy or heavy menstrual cramps), then intensify, becoming progressively more frequent and painful, and generally (but not always) more regular. This could be it! Learn more about your body this week and labor contractions. Week 41 Pregnancy Tip: Keeping Busy

Baby on the brain? It's hard to think of anything else when your due date has come and gone a week ago. But you know what they say about a watched pot so in an effort to keep your mind off your tardy baby and to keep busy, try to have something planned every day (and watching the clock tick doesn't count!). Get out of the house: Take a walk (which might even help get your contractions going), get a manicure or a haircut (you may not have the chance once baby's on board), see a movie or two (your last for a while), hit the mall for those last-minute baby needs, have lunch with your friends and dinner with your spouse, do a thorough grocery-store sweep so you'll come home to a full fridge and freezer. And speaking of freezers, make sure yours is stocked with ready-made meals. Oh, and tell your friends and family to stop calling every day: Remind them that no news isno news. Learn more about being overdue and anxious. Week 41 Pregnancy Symptoms

A slowdown in fetal activity: Many babies slow down their activity at this late stage in the game mainly because they become too cramped in the uterus (they are full size and weight now) to move around much. More frequent urination: Now that your baby has dropped down into your pelvis toward the birth canal with his or her head most likely right on your bladder

you may be feeling more of an urge to pee than ever before (and you may even start leaking when you cough or sneeze). Continue to do Kegel exercises to strengthen those pelvic-floor muscles and wear a panty liner (if you like) to stay dry in the meantime. Bloody show or loss of mucous plug: You may notice a pink- or brown-tinged mucous discharge in your underpants or in the toilet. The passage of this mucus means that blood vessels in the cervix are rupturing as the cervix is beginning to open up in preparation for labor (could be today or several days from now). Cervical dilation or effacement: During an internal exam, your practitioner will probably tell you how much your cervix is dilated (opened) and effaced (thinned). This opening and thinning of the cervix mean that its getting ready to make way for a baby. For some women dilation and effacement are very gradual over weeks and for some they can happen overnight. Diarrhea or nausea: Starting to get the runs? Its very common to experience diarrhea (or nausea) shortly before you go into labor since your muscles (including those in your intestines and rectum) are loosening in preparation for childbirth. Hemorrhoids: If the bulging veins in your rectum are causing you pain (thanks in large part to the increased blood flow to your pelvic area and the pressure your uterus is putting on your rectum), try soaking in a warm sitz bath for 15 to 20 minutes to soothe your aching bum. And dont forget to ask your practitioner before using any medication for hemorrhoids. Pelvic pressure and discomfort: No doubt youre feeling heaviness and stress in the pelvic region now that your baby has dropped down toward the birth canal. To ease the pressure on your hips and pelvis try to relax by lying down with your hips elevated. Fatigue or extra energy: If you cant seem to find the oomph to get off the couch these days, its understandable after all, your heavy (late) load is weighing you down. On the other hand, you may notice a sudden burst of energy now and again (for example, you feel the immediate urge to organize the nursery closet) thats your nesting instinct kicking into high gear, which is natures way of helping you prepare for your impending arrival.

Week 42 of Pregnancy
In the rare case that your baby is truly overdue, the good news is she'll be wide-awake and ready to go once she's born.

Your Baby in Week 42 of Pregnancy Although it's perfectly normal for a baby to arrive past the due date, you and your baby will get some extra attention this week. To be sure all is well, your practitioner will likely monitor youroverdue baby through nonstress tests (you're hooked up to a fetal monitor to measure your baby's heart rate and movement) and amniotic-fluid checks. When this latecomer finally makes her debut, chances are her skin will be dry, cracked, peeling, or wrinkled all completely temporary. That's because the protective vernix was shed weeks ago in anticipation of a delivery date that came and went. A tardy baby will also have longer nails, possibly longer hair, and little or none of that baby fuzz (lanugo). Shell also be more alert Hi, Mommy!

Learn more about your baby in week 42 and a late delivery. Your Body in Week 42 of Pregnancy While you may feel as if this pregnancy has been going on forever, studies show that 70 percent of post-term pregnancies aren't post-term at all. The frustrating mix-up is typically due to a miscalculation of the time of conception, usually thanks to irregular ovulation or a mom's uncertainty about the exact date of her last period. Even if you do end up among the two percent of women who are truly overdue, know that before this week is over, your baby will come out on her own or your practitioner will perform labor induction. Of course, youre probably sick of everyone calling to see if youve had the baby yet. But heres something to focus on as you wait: By this time next week, youll be snuggling with your newborn. Learn more about your body in week 42 and being past your due date. Week 42 Pregnancy Tip: Postpartum Doula Once the baby comes home, a new mom can expect to be exhausted and overwhelmed. (So can a new dad, by the way.) Whom do you call? A postpartum doula! She will provide care for you and your baby, including breastfeeding advice, cooking, child care, errands, and light cleaning. This miracle worker will teach and support you and your partner without judgment (she won't laugh at your pathetic attempts at swaddling). She knows all about emotional and physical recovery, infant soothing and coping skills, feeding, diapering anything and everything that eases the tricky transition into parenthood. The best way to find a postpartum doula is through word of mouth, so ask your pediatrician and your friends (you can also check with Doulas of North America at www.dona.org). Keep in mind that most doulas charge an hourly rate, so you can be flexible about when and how often she comes. A few hours a day for the first couple of weeks might mean the difference between a mommy and a zombie. Learn more about what to ask a doula before you hire one. Week 42 Pregnancy Symptoms

More frequent Braxton Hicks contractions: At this late stage in the game youll likely be feeling more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions (aka practice contractions that make your uterus feel hard) as your body gets ready for labor. If you start to notice a pattern to the contractions, they may be the real thing. Bloody show or loss of mucous plug: As your cervix opens up in preparation for labor, you may see a pink or brown discharge. This is perfectly normal and means that labor could happen within the next several days but if the discharge is heavy (more than two tablespoons) or is bright red, call your practitioner as soon as you can since this bleeding could be a sign of placenta previa or placental abruption. Rupture of membranes (possibly): If you feel a gush, or even a steady trickle, of clear, odorless fluid, that probably means that the amniotic sac has broken, allowing amniotic fluid to leak out. Let your practitioner know, and follow the instructions on labor and delivery because you may be giving birth soon (though about 15 percent of women experience their water breaking before their labor begins). Cervical dilation or effacement: Your practitioner has probably told you how dilated (open) and effaced (thinned out) your cervix is as it prepares for your baby to pass through the birth canal. While theres nothing you can do to speed it up, if your practitioner feels there is a need to induce your labor, there are medications that can move this process along. Diarrhea or nausea: Abdominal discomfort and diarrhea may be signs that labor is imminent (intestinal muscles relax before childbirth). Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and eat lightly to keep up your strength. Increased swelling of ankles and feet: Your bodily fluids are at their peak volume and you may be at your most immobile (the extra weight and discomfort can really slow you down!). Both can bring on even more swelling in your feet and ankles. But, still, dont forget to drink plenty of water to keep fluids circulating through your system, and try to sit or lie down with your feet elevated to prevent fluid from pooling there. Difficulty sleeping: Its very possible that anxiety and discomfort are making it hard for you to get enough shut-eye lately (and then theres the urge to pee every five minutes throughout the night). Consider talking to your partner before bed (or

writing down your worries) so that you can rest easier emotionally; and do what you can to make your bedroom as comfortable as possible for instance, open a window to prevent stuffiness or use a body pillow for extra support. Colostrum: Many women find that toward the end of pregnancy they begin to leak colostrum from their nipples a thin, yellowish fluid that is the precursor to mature breast milk. If youre uncomfortable or wet wear nursing pads in your bra.

Question:
"My husband used to want to make love all the time, but now that I'm pregnant, he won't even touch me. I don't know what to do about it, but I wish he would take advantage of the fact that I'm feeling really turned on these days (oddly enough!). It seems like this would be a great time for both of us if he could just get past this." Isn't it funny how the very same pregnancy hormones that make you bloated and queasy can also leave you hungry for sex? But there are actually good reasons why you're always in the mood for love right now. For one your perpetually engorged pelvic region is leaving you all tingly, all the time. For another, there's probably less stress between the sheets than there's been in a while since you're not actively trying to prevent a baby or create one. (And, if you're a first-time mom, you're not tending to one yet, either!) Rounding out the menu, literally you may feel sexier than ever, what with all those extra curves. All of which sounds like the perfect recipe for romance, except for one missing ingredient: your husband. What puts so many men off their favorite feed once there's a bun in the oven? For some, it's a matter of fear it's possible your husband's just afraid of hurting you or hurting the baby. For others, it's the weirdness factor getting close to you might mean getting too close for comfort to your baby during a decidedly adult activity. Or it could be a hang-up thing the hang-up being he's never made love to a mother before (even though that mother happens to be a woman he's always enjoyed making love to). Whatever the reason, remember not to take it personally it's not a reflection on you, or a rejection of you. But don't resign yourself to a nine-month dry spell, either.

Instead, initiate some pillow talk. Tell him how you're feeling (all fired up and no place to go), and find out what's going on in his head. Be understanding and patient if he has baggage he needs to unpack before you hit the sack again. Reassure him that sex is perfectly safe (as long as your practitioner has given you the green light). Let him know (or let him read about it on the site or in What to Expect When You're Expecting ) that babies are completely oblivious to parental goings-on (and gettingsit-on), completely impervious to the proceedings (plus, not within reach even for the particularly gifted dad), and likely to be lulled to sleep by the gentle, rhythmic rocking of lovemaking and orgasm. If he's not biting, have your practitioner give him the "sex is safe (and good exercise)" talk. If he's still not jumping on the jumping-you bandwagon, maybe the two of you could explore other sexual options that might inspire him like visiting an adult store (online if you're shy) for some toys (the kind that won't be for the baby) to stimulate his interest. Or set the stage for romance dress the part in naughty lingerie that accentuates all your new (and dangerous) curves, add some mood lighting and music, and offer up a massage (complete with scented oils). Or, if you're afraid that's too much pressure for him (and for you, should he turn you down), just engage in some cozy cuddling on the sofa it might just put him on the same passionate page as you, and make his hang-ups history.