This week, your body may start prepping for delivery day by flexing its muscles...literally. If you feel your uterus tightening or hardening periodically, those are Braxton Hicks contractions — irregular practice contractions that are first felt around mid-pregnancy and increase in frequency and strength as things progress. Show These prelabor rehearsals are a warm-up for the real thing and are typically experienced earlier and with more intensity in women who've been pregnant before. In fact, many novice moms-to-be don't notice them as much. They 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 as long as two minutes. How do you know they aren’t real labor? They’ll stop if you change position, so try getting up if you’re lying down or walking if you’ve been sitting. If they are real labor contractions, they'll become progressively stronger and more regular — so in that case, put in a call to your practitioner. In the meantime, when they're just the practice kind, try taking a warm bath to help with the discomfort. Ultrasound photosUltrasound is a tried-and-true prenatal tool — and a window into the wonderful world of your womb — but this procedure has taken a giant leap from the confines of a doctor's office to a storefront at the mall, with 3D- or 4D-ultrasounds. Is it safe to take a peek inside your tummy on the way to the mall? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against having ultrasounds for fun as opposed to getting them for medical reasons. That's because the three-dimensional imaging machines and procedures can expose your baby to more heat and for a longer time than the ultrasound machines at your doctor's office. Plus, many medical professionals say that only qualified technicians should perform the ultrasound and fear that nervous moms-to-be will come away mistakenly convinced there's something wrong with their baby. If you're still interested in an elective sonogram, make sure to check with your practitioner for the go-ahead. In the last three months of pregnancy, your baby is packing on the pounds, growing finger- and toenails, and opening and closing their eyes. You’re likely feeling pretty tired and might find yourself short of breath. This is completely normal. You should also be feeling more movement from baby. By week 37, your baby can be born and considered early-term. The longer they stay put, the healthier they’ll be at birth. If your pregnancy is healthy and low-risk, you should be attending prenatal appointments every two to four weeks up until 36 weeks. Then it will be time for weekly checkups until you deliver. At your appointments, your doctor will weigh you and check your blood pressure. Your doctor may ask you to provide a urine sample, which they’ll use to check for infection, protein, or sugar. The presence of protein in the urine in the third trimester can be a sign of preeclampsia. Sugar in urine could indicate gestational diabetes. Your doctor will measure your belly to check the baby’s growth. They may check your cervix for dilation. They might also give you a blood test to check for anemia, especially if you were anemic earlier in your pregnancy. This condition means you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells. UltrasoundsYou may get ultrasounds, just as you have in previous weeks, to confirm the baby’s position, growth, and health. Electronic fetal heart rate monitoring checks to make sure the baby’s heart is beating properly. You’ve likely had some of these tests by now. Group B Streptococcus ScreeningMany of us carry group B strep bacteria in our bowel, rectum, bladder, vagina, or throat. It usually doesn’t cause a problem for adults, but it can cause serious and potentially fatal infections in newborns. Your doctor will test you for group B strep in weeks 36 to 37 to make sure your baby isn’t exposed to it. They’ll swab your vagina and rectum, and then examine the swabs for the bacteria. If the test is positive for bacteria, they’ll give you antibiotics before delivery so your baby isn’t exposed to group B strep. STI TestsDuring the third trimester, your doctor might also check for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Depending on your risk factors, your doctor might test for:
These could infect your baby during delivery. Your doctor may perform other tests if they suspect your baby is at risk for certain conditions or isn’t developing as expected. AmniocentesisYou may receive an amniocentesis if your doctor thinks your baby might have a bacteria infection called chorioamnionitis. They may also use the test if they’re concerned about fetal anemia. This test is often done during the second trimester to detect chromosomal issues like Down syndrome. It’s also used to test for fetal lung function. During amniocentesis, your doctor will insert a long, thin needle through your abdomen into your uterus. They’ll withdraw a sample of amniotic fluid. They’ll consult an ultrasound to determine the exact location of your baby so the needle doesn’t touch them. A small risk of miscarriage or premature delivery is associated with amniocentesis. It’s possible your doctor will recommend inducing delivery if they discover an infection during the procedure. This will help treat the infection as soon as possible. The Nonstress TestThe nonstress test (NST) measures your baby’s heart rate as they move around. It may be ordered if your baby isn’t moving normally or if you’re past your due date. It can also detect if the placenta is healthy. Unlike stress tests for adults, which purposefully stress the heart to monitor its function, the NST just involves placing a fetal monitor over your baby bump for 20 to 30 minutes. Your doctor may perform the NST weekly if you have a high-risk pregnancy, or anytime beginning around the 30th week. Sometimes the heart rate is slow because your baby is dozing. In this case, your doctor might try to gently wake them. If the heart rate remains slow, your doctor may order a biophysical profile. This combines the NST information with an ultrasound exam to get a better understanding of the baby’s condition. Contraction Stress Test or Oxytocin ChallengeThe contraction stress test also measures fetal heart rate, but this time — you guessed it — with some stress. Not much stress, though. It will be just enough stimulation of your nipples or just enough oxytocin (Pitocin) to stimulate mild contractions. The goal is to see how the baby’s heart responds to contractions. If all is normal, the heart rate will remain stable even when contractions restrict blood flow to the placenta. If the heart rate is unstable, your doctor will have a much better idea of how the baby will react once delivery begins. This will help them take proper measures at that time, such as speeding up delivery or doing a cesarean delivery. You might feel more anxious about your baby’s health as your due date approaches. That’s normal. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor with any questions or concerns. Your anxiety affects the baby, so it’s best to put yourself at ease.
At 32 weeks pregnant, it's highly likely that your baby has already turned head-down in your uterus preparing for birth. Your baby is also getting better at regulating their body temperature—an important development for life outside the womb. Meanwhile, you may notice a change in your baby's movements as they have less room to move around.
32 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 8 months Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 8 weeks At 32 weeks, a baby is over 11 1/2 inches (29.3 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length). The baby's height is about 16 1/4 inches (41.6 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, the baby weighs over 4 pounds (1,901 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerAbout 97% of babies are born head first. As babies get closer to their birthday, they tend to turn upside down in the uterus to prepare. By 32 weeks, 85% of babies are in the head-down position. Don't worry if your baby hasn't turned yet. Some babies wait a little longer. In fact, it can take up to 37 weeks for the full 97% to turn into position. Your provider will continue to monitor your baby's position at every prenatal visit. Your baby started putting on brown fat (the type of fat needed to keep warm after leaving the womb) in the middle of the second trimester. At 32 weeks, your baby's body has also increased production of a protein and an enzyme necessary for generating body heat, which means they can now regulate their body temperature better. Most babies display the startle or Moro reflex by 32 weeks. A loud noise or a movement can cause the baby to appear startled, suddenly throw their arms and legs away from their body then bring them back in. Babies are born with the startle reflex, but it disappears a few months after birth. Your baby is also showing evidence of cycling through stages of sleep and wake times, and their brain activity now shows active sleep. At 32 weeks, babies reach a mini-milestone and move from the very preterm category to the moderate preterm category. Babies' lungs are continuing to develop at this stage, and they still need several more weeks to reach maturity. Otherwise, babies are very much in the finishing-touches stage of development. However, a baby born at 32 weeks will still need several weeks of care in a special care nursery or NICU—but the survival rate for babies born at this stage is 99%.
 Explore a few of your baby's week 32 milestones in this interactive experience. As your baby is getting closer to maxing out space in your growing uterus, you might notice some changes in the way they move. Symptoms related to the size of your belly, like aches and pains and heartburn, may also be getting a little worse. As your baby gets bigger, there's less room for them to move inside your uterus. You might begin to notice their formerly bold kicks becoming replaced with wiggles, squirms, knocks, and nudges. The type of movement you feel is not as important as feeling it. If you haven't experienced heartburn during your pregnancy, it could still pop up. If you've been having it all along, it can get worse in the third trimester. On top of pregnancy hormones that slow digestion and make it easier for stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, your uterus is now big and heavy enough to put a lot of pressure on your stomach. Heartburn occurs in around 22% of pregnancies in the first trimester, 39% in the second trimester, and up to 72% in the third trimester. At this point in pregnancy, you're likely splitting your time between managing discomfort and preparing for the baby's arrival. This week, you might want to start thinking about what you'd like to bring with you to the hospital for delivery day. Heartburn can be plain uncomfortable or even painful. While you might not be able to avoid it entirely during pregnancy, diet and lifestyle changes may help. Here are some general tips you can try that can help alleviate heartburn:
Packing your hospital or birthing center bag can help you feel more prepared for your baby’s arrival. You might want to pack some items for the new little person you will be meeting. Just make sure that you know the hospital or birthing center's rules about dressing your baby in clothes you brought from home (as some do not allow you to do so). Here are a few items you might want to gather and organize ahead of time. Before you get packing, find out what will be provided by your hospital or birthing center.
Make sure both you and your partner pack an overnight back. Even if you don’t plan to stay overnight, you might be there longer than you expect. Grab a duffle and think about adding the following for delivery day:
You might be back at your provider's office for another regular visit this week. You know the prenatal visit routine pretty well by now, which typically includes:
Just as your baby continues to grow late into your pregnancy, so do you. The recommended weight gain for people with a normal body mass index (BMI: 18.5—24.9) at the start of pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds. In most cases, you should be gaining roughly a pound a week. Based on this loose guideline, you may have gained approximately 23 pounds from the start of your pregnancy to now. As each pregnancy is different, talk to your provider about how much weight you have gained to find out if you are on the right track. Your provider may feel your belly to check the position of your baby. As you get closer to your due date, the baby should turn to the head-down position.
You will likely stay on an every-other-week visit schedule until you reach 36 weeks. At that point, most providers will want to see you every week until you deliver. Your next routine prenatal visit will likely be around 34 weeks. A test for a bacteria called group B strep (GBS) is recommended between 36 and 38 weeks. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk, you are carrying more than one baby, or your provider wants to check on your baby's well-being, you might be scheduled for additional tests beginning at week 32. The fetal non-stress test (NST) monitors the baby's heart rate as they move. For this test, you are hooked up to an external fetal monitor. The baby's heart rate should go up when they move, but sometimes it takes a while to observe this pattern if the baby is sleeping. When the test is reactive or shows two or more increases in heart rate in 20 to 40 minutes, it is a good sign that the baby is doing well. If the baby's heart rate doesn't go up or it goes down during the test, your provider will likely order more testing. The biophysical profile (BPP) is offered after 32 weeks for high-risk pregnancies and those experiencing complications. It’s also sometimes given to pregnant people who have passed their due date. BPP is painless. It starts with a detailed ultrasound during which the technician checks your amniotic fluid levels, the baby’s muscle tone, and movement of their body and breathing. Since digestion can stimulate these movements, you might be asked to eat a meal before you come in for the test. The ultrasound is generally followed by a non-stress test, where the baby's heart rate and possible uterine contractions are monitored. For this portion, you’ll be asked to lay on your side while two monitoring belts are secured around your abdomen. Your provider might instead call for a "modified biophysical profile," which is a combination of the non-stress test (NST) and a measurement of the amniotic fluid. After reviewing the results of the BPP or modified BPP, your provider will determine if it’s in your (and your baby’s) best interest to deliver earlier than planned. The contraction stress test monitors how well your baby handles contractions. For this test, you are hooked up to a fetal monitor. If you aren't having contractions on your own, you may be asked to stimulate your nipples to induce contractions or you may be given a medication to start contractions. Depending on the baby's response to your contractions, your provider will determine if the baby will be able to get enough oxygen during labor. The doppler of the umbilical artery is an ultrasound of the umbilical cord to check the blood flowing to the baby. This umbilical artery brings oxygen to nutrients to the baby. An issue with blood flow might indicate a problem with the pregnancy or the baby's growth. With just eight weeks to go before your expected due date, time may feel like it's simultaneously speeding up and slowing down. By now, you've probably become a pro at listening to your body—and don't stop now. Take your body's cues for when to slow down or power through and remember that in a few short weeks, you'll be nearing the finish line. Page 2
At 33 weeks pregnant, your baby is showing off their sucking and swallowing skills and is continuing to practice their breathing muscle movements. Meanwhile, you may find that you're out of breath as your diaphragm and lungs have to fight your uterus for space in your abdomen.
33 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 8 months and 1 week Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 7 weeks At 33 weeks, a baby is over 11 3/4 inches (30.2 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is almost 17 inches (42.9 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, the baby weighs a little more than 4 1/2 pounds (2,103 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerBaby’s bones are now fully developed, but still a bit soft and malleable, especially the plates in their skull. These bones need to remain pliable in order to pass through the narrow birth canal. In fact, one or two spots will remain soft even up to a year after your baby is born. These areas, called fontanelles, are normal gaps that allow room for the baby’s brain to continue developing. A weak sucking reflex appeared around week 28. Now your baby is beginning to coordinate and practice sucking and swallowing. Your baby can also demonstrate the rooting reflex by turning their head and opening their mouth in response to a touch or stimulation of the cheek. A moderately preterm baby born at 33 weeks still has a little maturing to do. Babies born around week 33 will need a little special care before going home. There is still a risk of disabilities due to prematurity, but babies born at this stage have a 99% chance of survival.
Explore a few of your baby's week 33 milestones in this interactive experience. Pregnancy can lead to aches and pains that you hadn't expected, and rib pain may be one of them. You may also find that with these new or growing discomforts, you're out of breath more often. During pregnancy, your ribs expand, your uterus puts pressure on your chest, and your baby might be pushing or kicking into your rib bones. This combination of events can lead to anything from an occasional ache to the painful swelling of the cartilage in the chest wall called costochondritis. About 62% of pregnant people report dyspnea or shortness of breath. Pregnancy and hormones cause changes in your entire body—including your respiratory system. In the third trimester, your growing uterus takes up so much room in your abdomen that it squeezes your diaphragm and lungs, which can affect your breathing. As with many of the common third-trimester complaints, sometimes the only thing you can do for full relief from symptoms like rib and shortness of breath is to be patient. You'll likely feel better after your baby is born in a few weeks. That said, there are a few things you can to do help manage the discomfort now. Rib pain and shortness of breath often go hand-in-hand in the third trimester. Here are some tips for dealing with pain and discomfort:
While shortness of breath is common, call your provider or go to the emergency room if you are having trouble breathing, you have chest pain, your body is swelling, or you have pain that won't go away or is getting worse. Right now, there’s a lot of focus on your impending labor and delivery, and of course, caring for your new arrival. It's important to remember that you will need to take care of yourself after labor and delivery, too. That means thinking ahead to your recovery period and gathering some postpartum supplies. If you end up having a vaginal delivery, the following items can make your recovery easier:
Regardless of the type of delivery you have, these items can be a big help:
Have you noticed your pregnant partner is cleaning a lot lately? This burst of organizational energy is called nesting, and it’s thought to be an instinctual way in which parents-to-be prepare for birth. Some people start to experience the need to nest right around now, whereas others experience it much earlier or not at all. As a partner, it’s your job to ensure that the pregnant person in your life does not overextend themselves. At this point in pregnancy, your partner should not climb ladders, use harmful cleaning supplies like bleach, or lift heavy objects. Offer help and assistance whenever needed. It also doesn’t hurt to get in on the nesting yourself. Consider making new-parenthood life a little easier on yourself by stocking up on non-perishable grocery and toiletry staples now. At the same time, put together some make-ahead meals to keep stocked in your freezer.
Since you're likely still on an every-other-week schedule, you might be back at your provider's office for a check-up next week at 34 weeks. You may be offered the whooping cough vaccine between 27 weeks and 36 weeks as it is recommended by the CDC. A screening test for group B strep (also called GBS or beta strep) typically takes place between 36 and 38 weeks. Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related condition that affects your blood pressure, as well as multiple organs in the body including your kidneys, liver, and central nervous system. Between 2% and 8% of pregnant people develop preeclampsia. The condition usually shows up in the third trimester but providers will screen for signs throughout pregnancy at each prenatal visit. Your risk for preeclampsia is increased if you have certain risk factors. You might be more likely to develop preeclampsia if:
While water retention in pregnancy is normal, if you’re experiencing significant swelling in your hands or face, your provider will evaluate you for other signs of preeclampsia, or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure. There are also other signs of preeclampsia that you should be aware of. Let your provider know right away if you have:
If you have mild preeclampsia, your provider will continue to check your blood pressure and urine regularly. They might ask you to check your blood pressure at home, too. If they haven't already, your provider will also ask you to perform daily kick counts to monitor your baby's well-being at home. Most people preeclampsia go on to have healthy babies, as long as their condition is detected and treated in a timely fashion. Severe preeclampsia needs to be treated in the hospital. Providers will usually try to safely get your baby to 34 weeks, but you might have to deliver early prevent further complications of preeclampsia, such as seizures or HELLP syndrome. If nesting instincts have kicked in, use them to your advantage when you have the energy. You've likely already done all the prep work for your labor and delivery, so this week is a great time to start learning about the postpartum period and getting prepared to care for yourself and your newborn after delivery. Page 3
At 34 weeks pregnant, your baby is enjoying their time moving around in their amniotic fluid, which hit its peak in terms of volume this week. Meanwhile, you're likely taking more frequent trips to the bathroom and to your healthcare provider's office.
34 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 8 months and 2 weeks Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 6 weeks At 34 weeks, a baby is over 12 1/4 inches (31.1 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is nearly 17 1/2 inches (44.2 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, baby weighs about 5 pounds (2,312 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerThat thick, waxy, cream cheese-like coating covering your baby's skin has been thickening until now. By week 34, the vernix starts coming off into the amniotic fluid. Scientists believe that when babies swallow the vernix in the fluid, it may help with the development of their stomach and intestines. The amniotic fluid that your baby is living in is at its peak around 34 weeks. There are about 1 1/2 pints (800 milliliters) of fluid surrounding baby, and baby is moving in the amniotic fluid, swallowing it, and "breathing" it in. Amniotic fluid contributes to the development of the baby's muscles and bones, digestive system, and lungs. At 34 weeks, babies graduate from "moderate preterm" to "late preterm." A late preterm baby may look like a full-term baby, but they are still not fully mature. Babies born at 34 weeks can experience some health issues such as jaundice, difficulty feeding, or difficulty breathing. But, with proper care, they often do well. The survival rate of a baby at 34 weeks is greater than 99%, and the risk of major disabilities associated with prematurity is as low as 5%.
Explore a few of your baby's week 34 milestones in this interactive experience. If you haven't already, you're likely to notice that your trips to the bathroom are becoming more frequent again. You may even notice some leaking between trips. Frequent urination returns toward the end of pregnancy when your baby and belly are at their biggest and putting extra pressure on your bladder. You may find yourself using the restroom more often, especially at night. Not only can pressure on your bladder lead to frequent bathroom breaks, but it can also bring on a new symptom: leaking urine. Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or engage in any physical activity is called stress incontinence. Stress incontinence affects about 41% of pregnancies. In early pregnancy, increased urination is often attributed to changing hormones, whereas in late pregnancy, the pressure from your growing baby and uterus are likely to blame. Frequent urination is just part of pregnancy, and unfortunately, there isn't too much you can do about it. In the third trimester, leaking urine may be a part of your pregnancy experience, too. Here are some tips to help you get through these last few weeks:
Have you spoken to your healthcare provider about perineal massage? If so, and you are interested in starting, this is the week to begin. This practice helps may help increase the plasticity of your perineum (the area between the vagina and anus), reducing your chances of both tearing and episiotomy, an incision to the perineum during delivery.
"[For the massage] you or your partner will place two fingers inside your vagina and apply pressure straight downward for two minutes. Then apply the same pressure to each side for an additional four minutes. For the best results, do this daily for the remainder of your pregnancy.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN While you should get your how-tos directly from your physician or midwife, here are some make-it-easier tips:
It’s worth making sure you’re there when your pregnant partner talks to their healthcare provider about perineal massage this week, since pregnant people often turn to their partners to help with this daily practice. While the above can give you a sense of what’s involved, you’ll undoubtedly find it helpful to have full instructions explained to you during the visit if you’re inclined to help with this—and your partner asks you to. Carrying twins or multiples? This could very well be your last prenatal visit. The average twin pregnancy delivers at about 35 weeks. For everyone else, this 34-week check-up will consist of the standard tests and measures:
The recommended weight gain for those with a "normal" weight at the start of pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds. However, everyone is different, so follow your doctor's advice when it comes to your pregnancy weight gain. In most cases, you can expect to gain roughly a pound a week at this point in your pregnancy. Based on this loose guideline, you may be up about 25 pounds since the start of your pregnancy. Your provider may feel the outside of your belly to check the position of your baby. As you get closer to your due date, baby should turn to the head-down position. Your provider monitors your baby's growth at each appointment by checking your fundal height (the measurement from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus) and feeling your uterus. Ultrasound measurements may also be used to estimate your baby's size and weight. Estimating the size and weight of your baby helps your doctor manage your pregnancy and plan your delivery. You may be offered the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine, also called Tdap, during this visit. The CDC recommends pregnant people receive this vaccine between 27 weeks and 36 weeks. During your next prenatal visit, it’s a good idea to ask your healthcare provider about their stand on when to cut baby's umbilical cord. Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend waiting at least 30 to 60 seconds after birth before clamping the umbilical cord. The World Health Organization (WHO) takes it a step further and recommends waiting one to three minutes (or longer) after delivery. Because the former routine practice was to clamp the cord immediately following birth, this practice is commonly known as "delayed cord clamping," and can offer a number of health benefits to baby with relatively little risk.
Since you're likely still on the every other week schedule, you may be back at your doctor's office for a check-up in two weeks at 36 weeks, after which your provider will want to see you once a week until you deliver. Between 36 weeks and 38 weeks, your healthcare provider will screen you for group B strep (also called GBS or beta strep), a bacteria found in your genital tract. It's present in about a quarter of all healthy vaginas, and while it may not cause any issues for the parent, it can for baby. In some situations, such as a high-risk pregnancy, or if there's a concern for your health or your baby's health, your provider may order additional testing. These tests can include: As you get closer to term, you and your provider will start to talk more about making final preparations for labor and delivery. Preterm birth is defined as giving birth before 37 weeks. Approximately 12% of expecting parents deliver their babies prematurely. One research study of over 34 million U.S. births between 2007 and 2015 showed that about 6% of deliveries occurred between 34 and 36 weeks. During your appointment, your provider will check the position of your baby. If your baby is breech at 34 weeks—meaning that instead of being head-down, your baby's bottom or feet are leading the way—that doesn't mean that your baby will remain in that position come delivery day. Only 3% to 4% of full-term births are breech.
"At this point in pregnancy, roughly 14% of babies are breech, but by week 36, that number shrinks to 9%.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Regardless, your healthcare provider will likely go over what you could do to help turn the baby and what will likely happen if your baby doesn't turn. Today, most breech babies are born by planned Cesarean section, but a planned vaginal birth of a single breech baby can sometimes be an option. Hands-to-Belly Procedure First, your provider may suggest external cephalic version (ECV), also called a hands-to-belly procedure, to get the baby in the optimal position. This is generally offered for breech babies between week 32 and week 37. With this procedure, your provider (and perhaps an assistant) applies firm pressure to your abdomen in an attempt to encourage baby to turn. You might be given terbutaline, a medication that quells uterine contractions, and/or an epidural to block pain. Typically, an ultrasound is used as a guide as well. More than half of ECV attempts are successful, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The caveat: Some babies who’ve been successfully flipped head-down revert back to the breech position before delivery day. At-Home Methods There are also some at-home methods to get your baby to turn that you can attempt. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying these:
Some methods that people say work but don't have any scientific evidence to back them include:
At 34 weeks, you're nearing the final stretch of pregnancy, but you likely still have some time before baby is here. Now's the time to really hone in on those to-do list items that you really want done before your little one's arrival so you're ready to go whenever baby decides to make their appearance. Page 4
At 35 weeks pregnant, the bulk of your baby's development is already complete, but your little one more than puts these final weeks before birth to good use. Meanwhile, you'll likely be doing your best to manage common discomforts and get some sleep before baby's arrival.
35 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 8 months and 3 weeks Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 5 weeks At 35 weeks, a baby is over 12 1/2 inches (32 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is close to 18 inches (45.5 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, the baby weighs around 5 1/2 pounds (2,527 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerBabies may look fully developed at 35 weeks, but there is still a lot of growth going on that you cannot see. The end of pregnancy is yet another time of rapid brain growth for your baby. In fact, the weight of baby’s brain grows by a third during the last 4 to 5 weeks before full term. Your baby is also gaining weight steadily, putting on roughly 8 ounces (half a pound) each week. With every ounce, more fat develops beneath baby’s skin and their skin becomes less wrinkled. Considered "late preterm" or near term, babies born at 35 weeks are almost ready for birth. They may need a little assistance with some oxygen right after delivery, but they have over a 99% chance of survival and are at a much lower risk of lifelong disability due to prematurity.
Explore a few of your baby's week 35 milestones in this interactive experience. Along with other third trimester symptoms like Braxton Hicks contractions, fatigue, swelling, and frequent urination, you might also be experiencing some headaches and difficulties sleeping in these final weeks. Headaches can occur at any point in your pregnancy, but they’re most common in the first and last trimesters. While early-pregnancy headaches often occur thanks to an uptick in blood volume and hormones, later-in-pregnancy headaches are more often due to worsening posture, sleep issues, and stress. Between difficulties finding a comfortable position, night sweats, heartburn, having to get up to pee throughout the night, and anxiety/excitement about childbirth, it's no wonder you aren't sleeping well. Studies show that around 78% of people report sleep issues during pregnancy, and 98% say they wake up during the night. Between discomforts like headaches and disturbed sleep in these final weeks, it can be difficult to get the rest you need leading up to baby's arrival, but there are things you can do for comfort. If third-trimester headaches are plaguing you right now, the following are some things you can do to feel better:
It can certainly be difficult to get a good night's sleep during the last few weeks of pregnancy. And sleep disturbances will continue through those first few weeks postpartum when you're caring for your newborn. You may not be able to get a full night of uninterrupted sleep for a while, but here are some tips to help you get as much sleep as you can:
If you have a dog at home, you’ll need to prepare them for your new arrival. To help ease any anxiety your pet may feel—and create a safe environment for baby—try these suggestions:
You'll likely see your provider for a prenatal visit next week at 36 weeks. After next week's appointment, you'll begin seeing your healthcare provider weekly until you deliver. Between next week and week 38, you will have a screening test for a bacteria that is found in the vagina of approximately 1 in 4 pregnant women. It's called Group B strep (also called GBS or beta strep). If there is any concern for your health or your baby's health, your doctor may also order additional tests such as: As you get closer to term, much of the discussion will center around labor and delivery. Delivering before 37 weeks is called preterm birth. Approximately 12% of births occur prematurely. In the United States, a large study of over 34 million births between 2007 and 2015 showed that about 6% of women deliver between 34 and 36 weeks. Your provider monitors your baby's growth throughout pregnancy. At birth, most full-term newborns weight between 5 pounds 11 ounces (2,600 grams) and 8 pounds 6 ounces (3,800 grams). But, sometimes a baby measures larger than expected. A baby who weighs over 8 pounds 13 ounces (4000 grams) at birth is considered a large baby. When Large Isn't Large If your physician or midwife has told you that your baby is looking big, there’s no need to panic. Determining if a baby is, in fact, "large" while still in the womb is imprecise at best. In fact, one-third of people who were part of a 2015 study published in Maternal and Child Health Journal were told that their baby might be quite large near the end of the third trimester. But only one in five of them actually birthed a baby over 8 pounds, 13 ounces—the usual threshold for labeling a baby “large.” Concerns Over Size While it is impossible to know how much your baby weighs while they are still in your womb, your doctor may attempt to estimate their size and weight through examination and ultrasound. Risk factors such as gestational diabetes, previous delivery of a large baby, or a family history of large babies, are also taken into consideration. Although rare, having a larger-than-average baby can lead to some complications. You may have a longer and more difficult delivery, may need a C-section, and the baby may experience some birth injuries and require a longer stay in the hospital. So, having a better idea of your baby's size can help you and your provider prepare for birth. Delivering a Big Baby People give birth to big babies all the time. Your doctor will discuss your options for delivery based on the estimated size of the baby, the size and shape of your pelvis, your overall health, and your baby's condition. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists:
After delivery, things will not surprisingly be all about baby. So with just a few weeks left until full term, be sure to take some time for yourself. Cut yourself some slack and rest when you can. Now is the time to prioritize your well-being and start getting comfortable with incomplete projects and asking for help. Page 5
At 36 weeks pregnant, you're officially nine months along. Yes, you read that right. While you'll commonly hear references to the "nine months of pregnancy," in reality, full term is closer to 10 months (and sometimes a little more) when all is said and done. But you're in the home stretch now and as you continue prepping for baby's arrival, they're doing the same.
36 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 9 months Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 4 weeks At 36 weeks, a baby is nearly 13 inches (32.9 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is almost 18 1/2 inches (46.8 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, baby weighs approximately 6 pounds (2,745 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerChances are good that your baby is now in the head-down position, readying for their birthday. By 36 weeks, up to 93% of babies turn down, and after 37 weeks, 97% of babies are in the head-down position for birth. Baby's sleep-wake cycle is becoming more developed. At 36 weeks, your baby will continue to show active sleep but now has a distinct period of quiet sleep as well. By 36 weeks, baby's eyelids have smooth margins and are almost fully formed. Babies born at 36 weeks are considered "late preterm" or "near term." They are very close to being ready for birth, but they are still maturing. After delivery, they may not need any help, or they may require a little assistance. Most babies at this stage do very well. The survival rate at 36 weeks is over 99%.
Explore a few of your baby's week 36 milestones in this interactive experience. Your baby bump hasn't finished changing. Just when you feel like you've gotten used to its size and shape, it'll change again, and as you near labor one big change to look out for is baby "dropping" into your pelvis. If your belly suddenly looks different, don’t panic. When the baby shifts position and drops down into the pelvis it's called lightening. Once your baby settles down into the pelvis, you may feel like you finally have more room to breathe. Of course, the trade-off is more pressure in your pelvic area. While dropping down is a way the baby prepares for birth, it doesn't necessarily mean that labor is upon you. First-time moms can experience this drop 2 to 4 weeks before childbirth. The second time around, however, it might be later and not until labor begins.
“There’s no clear correlation between when your baby drops and when labor starts." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN As you get further into your third trimester, your baby and uterus continue to get bigger and heavier. Plus, once baby drops, there could be a lot of pressure in your pelvis causing aches, pains, and feelings of heaviness. Some people describe the feeling as similar to squeezing a bowling ball between their legs.
“This is a period of rapid growth for your baby and extra weight gain for you, making the end of the third trimester a lot more uncomfortable." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN While in earlier weeks, you may have experienced rib pain and shortness of breath, once baby drops, you'll likely be contending with some added pelvic pain. Pelvic pain is common at this late-stage of pregnancy. It affects 1 in 5 during pregnancy. While you can’t really prevent these aches, you can do a few things to help alleviate your discomfort:
Most importantly, hang in there. You are near the end of pregnancy now. It won't be long before the source of the pressure is born and you feel relief. While your pregnant partner is gearing up to ask their healthcare provider any lingering labor questions, it behooves you to do the same. Here are some points you may want to cover with the doctor or midwife and/or your partner:
You can expect the usual checks during this week's routine visit:
The recommended pregnancy weight gain for those who are at a "normal" weight before pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds. By the third trimester, it is expected that you might gain roughly a pound a week. So, by week 36, you may have gained around 27 pounds from the start of your pregnancy. Of course, every pregnancy is different, so talk to your doctor about how much weight you have gained to be sure you're on the right track for your health. This week, your healthcare practitioner may begin vaginal or internal exams. Internal exams check your cervix for effacement and dilation as well as baby's position in the birth canal. Not all providers begin these exams at week 36—and not every person wants them at this point in pregnancy. If you aren’t comfortable with this exam, you are within your rights to decline it, and there is no danger associated with skipping it.
“In my experience, doing a cervical exam at each visit only causes frustration and is unnecessary.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN At one of your appointments between this week and 38 weeks, you will have a screening test for Group B strep (also known as GBS or beta strep). For this test, your provider will take a sample of the bacteria in your vagina and rectum with a swab. The swab will be sent to a lab to be cultured and checked for Group B strep. See the special considerations below for more information. Take the time at your doctor's office to go over all the signs that indicate you may be in labor. Bring your notebook and ask as many questions as you like, such as:
Now that you’re 36 weeks pregnant, chances are you will be at your physician or midwife’s office once a week until delivery day. As you get closer to delivery, your provider may or may not order additional tests to check in on baby's well-being. These tests can include: With baby's birthday around the corner, your provider will want to ensure that you know when to head to the hospital for delivery, and their recommendation will depend in part on the results of your GBS test. Approximately 12% of babies are born prematurely or before 37 weeks. In a large study of over 34 million U.S. births between 2007 and 2015, about 6% of pregnancies are delivered between 34 and 36 weeks. Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria. It is common, but not everyone has it. About 25% of expecting parents (1 in every 4) carry it. In most healthy adults, it doesn't cause any symptoms and is not harmful. However, it can cause serious infection or even death in newborns. Testing Positive It can be scary to find out you have Group B strep but try not to worry. The treatment is simple: You'll simply receive antibiotics during labor. Remember that 25% of pregnant people are positive. And, while GBS is dangerous for babies, it is rare for a baby to get it. If you are positive, your provider will go over the plan with you, which will likely look something like this:
Without treatment, about 1% to 2% of babies born to moms who are positive develop a GBS infection. With treatment during labor, the number is much lower with only 1 in 4,000 babies developing an infection. You have just one more month (4 weeks) until the highly anticipated 40-week mark. Though babies are known for following their own schedule, it's safe to say that you probably only have a few more weeks of pregnancy to get through (or enjoy, depending on your perspective!). As you manage late-pregnancy discomforts, try to enjoy those baby kicks, bumps, and rolls while you can—many women are surprised how much they miss them when baby's finally living in the outside world. Page 6
At 37 weeks pregnant, you and your baby are officially considered "early term." Your baby will be putting the finishing touches on vital skills like sucking and swallowing while your body may be giving you signs that it's preparing for labor and delivery.
37 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 9 months and 1 week Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 3 weeks At 37 weeks, a baby is almost 13 1/4 inches (33.8 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is close to 19 inches (48 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, baby weighs about 6 1/2 pounds (2,966 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerThe size-related numbers above are averages. At birth, your baby may be a little bigger or smaller than these measurements. The length (height) of a healthy newborn can range from 17 3/4 inches (45 centimeters) to nearly 22 inches (55 centimeters). Meanwhile, a healthy birth weight can range from 5 1/2 pounds (2,500 grams) to 10 pounds (4,500 grams). Your baby has been getting ready to take feedings after birth by practicing their sucking and swallowing skills for a few weeks. The coordination of sucking and swallowing is complete by 36 to 38 weeks. Human pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks. When the amount of time or term of pregnancy is complete, a baby is considered ready for birth. Pregnancy used to be considered "term" anywhere from 37 to 42 weeks. However, in 2012, experts redefined and expanded the definition. Deliveries at 37 weeks are now considered "early term" because a baby’s brain, lungs, and liver continue to develop during this time.
Explore a few of your baby's week 37 milestones in this interactive experience. At 37 weeks, your body is getting serious about preparing for birth in a number of ways. In late-pregnancy, those practice contractions may be more noticeable and happening more often. The occasional tightening of the muscles of your uterus may be mild or strong and you may feel it as often as every 10 to 20 minutes. Way back in the first trimester, cervical mucus clumped together to plug up or seal your cervix to protect your pregnancy. Now, as early as a few weeks before labor, changes in your cervix can loosen that protective plug. Part or all of the mucus plug may fall out. It can appear as a thick discharge tinged with brown or red streaks. When there's pink or red spotting along with the loss of the plug, it is known as the "bloody show." Of course, some people pass the plug without noticing it. While losing the mucus plug is one sign your body is gearing up for labor, it doesn’t necessarily indicate that the big moment is right around the corner; it could be hours, days, or still weeks away. That said, if you do lose your plug now, tell your healthcare provider at your next prenatal appointment. Rest assured, your baby is not at increased risk for infection as a result of this. At this point in pregnancy, self-care should include balancing tying up loose ends and taking time for yourself since you'll soon be joined by a new addition. While many working parents-to-be save the entirety of their family and medical leave for after baby arrives, others wish to take some time before birth as well.
“While it’s certainly not possible for everyone, I do like to encourage patients to try and take some time off from work—even if it’s just a couple of half days, even if you’re feeling fine—at the end of pregnancy. This is really your last chance to grab some time for yourself before your baby changes your life.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Nesting in the third trimester of pregnancy typically means getting things ready and organized for your new arrival. It could include cleaning, last-minute preparations in the nursery, shopping, gathering the supplies you'll need once you're home with the baby, pre-cooking meals, or other preparations. In animals, nesting is an instinct that kicks in to prepare their nests for birth and the safety of their young. In humans, there isn't good evidence to say the common behaviors we call "nesting" are a result of a biological urge. It may be more of an awareness that it's easier to get things done before there's a new baby to care for and it's helpful to be prepared for when you come home with a baby. Know that your baby actually requires very little when you bring them home. If you have a car seat; a safe place for baby to sleep; diapers; wipes; a weeks’ worth of clean onesies; and an infant hat, you’re golden. If you aren’t planning on breastfeeding, then add bottles and formula to the shortlist of must-haves, too. If needed, your partner or baby visitors can step in and get anything else you feel you need once your new baby arrives.
While your pregnant partner is discussing their questions, concerns, and thoughts with you and their healthcare provider, don't hesitate to acknowledge your own delivery day anxieties as well. Ask your own questions of your partner’s midwife or physician, seek the advice of experienced parents, and talk with your partner. It’s not uncommon for those in your position to worry about many of the same things as the birthing parent, like getting to the hospital or birthing center on time, or feeling nervous about witnessing the birth. Other common concerns include:
Remember that whatever you are feeling is OK and natural, especially if this is your first child. Don't hesitate to discuss your feelings with your healthcare provider, partner, and other experienced family members. You are used to the prenatal visit routine by now. You can expect to:
Whether you are planning to have a Cesarean section or not, take this opportunity to talk with your healthcare provider about the what-ifs of this surgical procedure. After all, 32% of all deliveries in the United States wind up being via C-section, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—some planned, some not.
“While some Cesareans are scheduled ahead of time because of concerns like placenta previa, breech or transverse presentation, or multiples, more often than not, determining whether a baby comes out vaginally or by C-section doesn’t happen until you are actually in labor." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Whether a C-section is part of your plan or not, ask your physician or midwife questions like:
If you have scheduled a C-section and are certain that you do not want to get pregnant again, you may be considering tubal ligation (having your “tubes tied”). If so, be sure to talk to your provider about these plans; some people opt to get both procedures done at the same time, but advanced planning is necessary.
Now that you've graduated to weekly prenatal visits, you'll be back in the office again next week. If you haven't already, you can expect a screening for Group B strep, which is typically completed between week 36 and week 38. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk, or if there's a concern for your health or your baby's health, the doctor may order additional testing. These tests can include: In special circumstances, this week might be accompanied by certain procedures like the removal of cervical cerclage or discussions of induction. According to research, the chances of delivering a baby between 37 and 38 weeks is 24% to 29%. If you received a cervical cerclage early in your pregnancy, where a surgeon stitched around your cervix to help prevent preterm birth, this is the week when your healthcare provider will remove the stitches. Removing the cerclage doesn't mean you'll immediately go into labor, so you may still have a little time. Studies show that only 11% of expecting parents deliver within 48 hours of the removal procedure. The average time from the removal of the cerclage to delivery is 14 days. If there is a concern for your health or the health or your baby, your healthcare provider may recommend induction of labor. Induction of labor is when the doctor uses various interventions to get labor started before it happens naturally. Labor may be artificially brought on by:
If you experience a small burst of "nesting" energy this week, use it wisely. Do your best to focus only on the most important items on your to-do list, leaving the rest to another time or, better yet, enlist your partner or a supportive friend or family member to help. Remember that it is equally, if not more, important to prioritize yourself during this final stretch of pregnancy. Page 7
At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is nearing full term and complete maturity. You may literally be breathing a little easier as baby moves lower into your pelvis reducing upper abdominal pressure. That said, just getting up to get a glass of water may feel like a chore.
38 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 9 months and 2 weeks Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 2 weeks At 38 weeks, a baby is over 13 1/2 inches (34.6 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is almost 19 1/2 inches (49.3 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, baby weighs about 7 pounds (3,186 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerIt's important to note that the numbers above are general guidelines based on averages. Your baby may be a little bigger or smaller than these measurements at birth. In fact, a healthy newborn's length (height) can range from 17 3/4 inches (45 centimeters) to nearly 22 inches (55 centimeters), while their birth weight can be between 5 1/2 pounds (2,500 grams) to 10 pounds (4,500 grams). By week 38, your baby is shedding the soft, fine hair (known as lanugo) that covers their body in utero. Most of this hair is typically gone before a full-term baby is born—although some hair may remain on the baby's shoulders and arms. Your baby's eye color may be a dark blue-gray right now (and at birth), but that doesn't mean it will stay that way. Your baby's final eye color will depend on how much of a protein called melanin your baby produces. But, it can take up to a year for the iris, or the part of the eye that has color, to reach its final color of brown, blue, green, hazel, or somewhere in between. A pregnancy is considered full term at 39 weeks. From 37 weeks through 38 weeks and 6 days, babies are considered "early term." While a baby is just about ready for birth at 38 weeks, there is still some last-minute development going on during that last week or two in the uterus.
Explore a few of your baby's week 38 milestones in this interactive experience. Your body doesn't get much larger or more awkward than at the tail-end of pregnancy, and you're likely experiencing the symptoms to prove it. The simple act of walking can become uncomfortable during the third trimester. Between carrying extra weight, your uterus taking up nearly all of the room inside of your abdomen, and your baby’s head putting pressure between your legs, you may find yourself doing the pregnancy waddle. You are probably not quite as graceful as you were a few months ago. Not only do you have a big belly and extra weight throwing off your center of gravity, but in preparation for childbirth, your ligaments and joints are loosening up. These changes may leave you feeling a little unstable on your feet. As a result, your chances of falling are higher. If you're feeling extra clumsy or having more difficulty moving around, take it as a sign to rest up. While you rest, consider brushing up on the basics you learned in your birth classes, including signs of labor. You may need to try harder than usual to keep your balance during these last few weeks. Here are some tips:
You're getting close to baby's birthday now, so you'll want to be on the lookout for signs of labor. You might know right away that it's time, but for some expecting parents, it can be hard to tell. Here are a few of the labor signs you're looking for:
You may not notice all these signs, and some may show up before labor starts. For example, your mucus plug could fall out and your baby could "drop" a few weeks before you go into labor. Contractions can start without your water breaking or your water can break without any contractions in sight. It's easy to tell it's labor when your water breaks and contractions begin. But, if you just have some cramping, it may not be as obvious. So, call your doctor or head to the hospital if you think you're in labor, you're in a lot of pain, you have bleeding from your vagina, or your baby doesn't seem to be moving as much. You’ve spent many months focusing on your baby-to-be. Now that the last weeks of pregnancy are here, be sure to focus on you and your partner. Take time to relax or enjoy an activity together not only to distract you both from the waiting game but to enjoy being just the two of you before your baby arrives and your family grows. You are getting really close now. There aren't that many of these weekly prenatal visits left. In fact, at this point, you never know when it's your last one. This week, you'll have the typical check-up and exam, including:
You and your baby are still gaining weight during these last few weeks. It is expected that you will gain about a pound a week at this point, so you may have put on approximately 29 pounds by now. For those with a "normal" body weight at the start of pregnancy, the recommended weight gain over the course of pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds. However, every person and pregnancy is different, so talk to your doctor about how much weight you have gained to be sure you're on the right track for you. Do you have lingering delivery-day worries or questions? Now’s the time to share them with your healthcare provider (and your partner), no matter how silly or outrageous they might seem. Your provider can help quell your fears and offer reality checks. Some concerns that commonly top the list of moms-to-be include:
Now that you're scheduled for weekly prenatal visits, you'll be back for another appointment next week at 39 weeks. Depending on your situation, your provider may order additional tests to check on the health of your pregnancy and the baby, such as: Childbirth often looks nothing like what you see on TV or in the movies, starting with when the water breaks. Do you know what to expect? In the United States, a large study of over 34 million births showed that 24% to 29% of those expecting deliver between 37 and 38 weeks. The bag of water that breaks during labor is the amniotic sac. The sac is made up of two membranes, and they hold the amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby. Your water breaking is also called the rupture of the membranes. If your water breaks naturally (without intervention), it might be a gush of fluid or just a trickle. You may know right away, or you may not be so sure. Amniotic fluid:
If you are unsure whether or not your water has broken, change your underwear, put on a pad, and wait. If the fluid was actually urine, nothing more will likely happen. But, if it is amniotic fluid, the pad will continue to get wet. Whether it's a gush or a trickle, you should contact your healthcare provider who will likely have you come in so they can test the fluid. If your water has, in fact, broken but you are not yet experiencing contractions, your provider may simply have you wait it out and allow labor to start over the next few hours. If your water breaks at this stage of pregnancy, delivery (either via natural progression or induction) is imminent to reduce your and your baby’s risk of infection. But also know that some people go into labor without their water breaking on its own. With just one week until you and your baby are considered "full term," it won't be long until you're meeting your baby. Try to find some solace in all the preparation you've done to this point. Instead of keeping your focus entirely on baby and their upcoming birth, take this time to focus on you and your partner. If this is your first child, try to enjoy these last moments as a family of two. If you have other children, be sure to spend some quality one-on-one time with them as well. Page 8
At 39 weeks pregnant, you and your baby are considered full term. You may feel like “it’s time,” and it very well could be. Not all people stay pregnant long enough to deliver at the 40-week mark.
39 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 9 months and 3 weeks Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 1 week At 39 weeks, a baby is almost 14 inches (35.4 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height is over 19 3/4 (50.5 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, baby weighs about 7 1/2 pounds (3,403 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerIt's important to know that the weight and length measurements provided above are approximate. Your baby may very well be larger or smaller than an average at birth, and that is still normal. The birth length (height) of a healthy newborn can range from 17 3/4 inches (45 centimeters) to nearly 22 inches (55 centimeters), and the birth weight of a healthy newborn can range from 5 1/2 pounds (2,500 grams) to 10 pounds (4,500 grams). By week 39, your baby’s organs are fully formed and capable of functioning normally outside the womb. But, that doesn’t make these final days of pregnancy any less important. During this time:
Your baby's immune system is also getting stronger. During pregnancy, you pass antibodies to your baby to build their immune system and help them fight off illness and infection. While baby has been receiving your antibodies from the placenta since week 13, the majority of the antibodies you pass to them during pregnancy transfer during the last few weeks. At 39 weeks, your baby is "full term." A full-term baby is one that is born between 39 weeks and 40 weeks 6 days. Babies born during this time frame have the best health outcomes.
Explore a few of your baby's week 39 milestones in this interactive experience. You're likely still experiencing most, if not all, of the third-trimester symptoms you've had up to this point, but on a more exciting note, your body is also likely making real strides in preparation for your baby's birth. At 39 weeks, your baby is more than likely head down and situated low in your pelvis. As baby's head gradually inches closer and closer to your cervix, the pressure should help prepare your cervix to begin softening, shortening, and thinning out. This process is called ripening or effacement. In order to birth your baby, your cervix has to efface (soften, shorten, and thin out) and open or dilate. For some, effacement and dilation come on slowly and steadily over weeks. For others, it all happens rather quickly during labor. Changes in the cervix happen, in part, because you are experiencing an uptick of hormones called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help get the cervix ready for labor and birth, but they can also bring about loose stools. Ready to birth that baby of yours? Once you're full term, it's usually safe to take steps to encourage labor. There are a few things you can do at home that may gently encourage baby’s exit. If your provider is not trying to keep you from going into labor for any reason, you can try:
Sexual intercourse, orgasm, and nipple stimulation may help encourage labor. But all of the above likely won’t do a thing unless the parent-to-be is relaxed and in the mood. If your partner is medically cleared to go into labor (meaning their healthcare provider hasn’t explicitly said otherwise) and both of you are interested in trying to get things started in this manner, do what you can to make them feel at ease. But remember:
You will have the usual measurements, checks, and discussions at this weekly visit, including:
Take this time with your provider to ask any lingering questions about labor and delivery. Of course, if you think of something later, you can always call the office. You are at the end of your pregnancy. It's recommended that most people gain approximately 25 to 35 pounds over the course of pregnancy. However, everyone is different. So, you may have gained more or less depending on your situation and your healthcare provider's recommendation. At 39 weeks, your physician or midwife may offer to strip or sweep your membranes. They can do this procedure during the internal exam if the cervix has begun to dilate. To strip the membranes, your healthcare provider will use a gloved finger to gently separate the membranes that attach the amniotic sac to your uterine wall. This procedure can stimulate natural prostaglandins and get contractions started. While not every doctor or midwife routinely offers the procedure, it may reduce the need for induction and lower your chance of being post-term (going past 40 weeks and your expected due date). Know, however, that the procedure may cause discomfort (akin to menstrual cramps) and you’ll likely experience some spotting up to three days afterward, but all of that is perfectly normal. By 39 weeks, you're an old pro at being pregnant, but you still may have some questions or concerns about birth. You have an excellent chance of delivering this week or next week. A large study of over 34 million U.S. births between 2007 and 2015 showed that 54% to 60% of those expecting had their baby between 39 and 40 weeks. Many parents fear that the umbilical cord might wrap around baby’s neck, which is known as a nuchal cord. While it’s true that this is a common occurrence (present in 20% to 30% of births), a nuchal cord rarely impedes baby’s descent or delivery, according to research in the Journal of Midwifery and Reproductive Health.
“The potential concern is not that baby can’t breathe, but that the blood flow through the cord would cease. But the two arteries and vein in the umbilical cord are protected by a thick substance called Wharton’s jelly, which cushions the vessels from serious damage.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Most of the time, the umbilical cord is loosely wrapped, so your healthcare provider can easily slide it over baby’s head during delivery. If the umbilical cord is tightly wrapped, however, your physician or midwife may cut the cord before your baby is born. A tightly wrapped cord is less common but more dangerous. It can cause complications in the baby such as low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, and, in some cases, death. Rest assured, however, that if the baby is in distress due to a nuchal cord, your doctor will deliver the baby right away and possibly through an emergency C-section. You've made it to full term, which means you can expect to meet your baby any day now. As most will tell you, however, it's still a bit of a waiting game. Some people find themselves feeling a little impatient and ready to go. If you're in that group, that's OK. As long as your provider hasn't expressed any concerns, go ahead and try some of the safe methods to naturally kick start labor. Just do your best to enjoy yourself. Baby will still come on their own time, so even if you have to wait longer than you'd hoped, at least you had some fun in the meantime. Page 9
At 40 weeks pregnant, you've reached the milestone everyone's been counting down to from the beginning. Hopefully, you’ll be welcoming your brand-new baby this week. Whether that happens or you find yourself overdue, the road ahead is a short one. Though those at this stage of pregnancy are often ready for their pregnancy to end, the feelings that come with the reality of "the big day" can take many by surprise.
40 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 10 months Which Trimester? Third trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 0 weeks At 40 weeks, a baby is about 14 1/4 inches (36.3 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (known as the crown-rump length), and baby's height may stretch over 20 inches (51.7 centimeters) from the top of their head to their heel (crown-heel length). This week, baby might weigh close to 8 pounds (3617 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerYour newborn may measure in close to the averages above. However, its normal for a healthy newborn to be smaller or larger than those numbers. A healthy full-term baby can have a measure between 17 3/4 inches (45 centimeters) to nearly 22 inches (55 centimeters) long. It is also normal for a healthy newborn to weigh anywhere between 5 1/2 pounds (2,500 grams) to 10 pounds (4,500 grams). This week, your baby is right on target at 40 weeks, which is considered "full term." Babies born at full term encounter fewer risks and generally have better health outcomes.
Explore a few of your baby's week 40 milestones in this interactive experience. After months of nothing more than occasional peeks at your little one via ultrasound, it's time to get ready to meet your baby face-to-face. Your newborn might not look how you expect. Those perfect, plump babies in magazines are usually a few weeks old. Right after birth, newborns are wet and often show the signs of the birth they just experienced.
While the look of your baby may be a little strange at first, these variations in appearance are normal expectations in healthy newborns. As the hours and days go on, your baby will look more and more ready for their magazine cover shoot. After baby is born, there are a few procedures and tests that will take place right away, and a few more that will take place during the first few days:
At 40 weeks pregnant, you are full term, but if you do not have your baby this week, you aren't alone.
"Only 19% of women actually go into labor during week 40, with 14% going into labor at 41 weeks or more.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN With babies coming on their own schedule more often than not, you might still find yourself still waiting on your little one's arrival this week. Patience is definitely key. When you do go into labor, you can expect to experience several stages:
Here's a look at the parts of labor. With early labor, you’ll experience telltale uterine contractions.
“The early (latent) phase of labor can consist of irregular, not-very-painful contractions that last 30 to 45 seconds. But it can also consist of painful contractions from the get-go.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN With each contraction, your cervix continues to open (dilate) and thin (efface). Unlike Braxton Hicks, labor contractions don’t stop when you shift positions. They start in the back and move to the front of your abdomen, and they feel stronger than the "practice contractions" you've experienced until now. This early stage of labor can last a day or two, so call your doctor or clinic to let them know and get instructions. Active labor can start when the cervix is dilated anywhere from 3 to 6 centimeters. Once you enter the active stage of early labor, your cervix may dilate roughly 1 centimeter an hour. During active labor:
You’ll want to make your way to the hospital or birthing center at some point during this stage of labor. Dr. Hill recommends going when contractions are strong and have consistently been three to five minutes apart for at least a few hours:
Transition is the last part of the first stage of labor. It is commonly considered the hardest part, but its also often the shortest. During transition, contractions are long and intense. The time between contractions is short, so it's difficult to rest or relax. This is a time when the cervix is opening to its widest point. During transition you may start uncomfortable shivering or develop nausea and start to vomit. Although unpleasant, this is usually entirely normal. When you reach full dilation or 10 centimeters, you enter the second stage of labor. The second stage can last anywhere from 20 minutes to a few hours. You'll feel the pressure of your baby’s head between your legs along with a strong urge to push. If you have an epidural, however, the sensation may be dampened. When it's time to push, it may feel like you have to move your bowels. Your provider will help you know when it's time to push. Each push helps to move the baby down the birth canal. During the pushing stage, your baby’s head will begin to emerge from your vagina with each contraction. When the baby’s head remains visible without slipping back inside, baby is crowning. Once your baby's head is visible, you will continue to push as you or your provider helps guide your baby into the world. The second stage of labor ends with the birth of your baby. The second stage can take a little longer with an epidural than without one. However, it shouldn't greatly impact your ability to push when it’s time. After your baby is born, you’ll enter the final stage of labor: delivering the afterbirth or placenta. During this stage, you begin to have contractions again and you may have to push again. The placenta is usually delivered within 30 minutes, and your labor is over once it is out of your body.
It’s important to remember that no two birthing experiences are the same. While your curiosity may be satisfied by hearing others’ stories, your experience (how you deliver, how long it takes, and more) will be your own. Self-care becomes even more important—and yes, often more complicated—as you prepare for labor and the birth of your baby as well as the transition from pregnancy to postpartum. If you've reached 40 weeks and you're still waiting to meet your baby, the best advice is just to do your best to be patient. It may not be what you want to hear, but it's important to remember that babies come when they're ready. In the meantime, you can continue to try to encourage your baby to get into position and help get labor on its way by:
"One of the most common reasons that your baby has not come out yet is that they may not be in the proper position. Encourage your baby to drop into the pelvis by staying active, going on walks, and gently stretching your hips and groin.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Once your baby is here, it can become very easy to neglect your own needs. But remember, whether you had a Cesarean or vaginal birth, you’ll be recovering from one of the most physically and mentally demanding experiences a person can have. It will be important to honor that and ensure that you and your loved ones do what you can to support the recovery process. To ease vaginal and perineum pain:
To make using the bathroom easier:
To soothe sore breasts:
In addition, if you experience any worrisome physical symptoms, such as fever, excessive bleeding, an inflamed C-section scar, pain, chills, or difficulty breathing, do not wait until your postpartum checkup to seek care and guidance from your physician or midwife. Many new parents do not feel prepared for the postpartum period. Dealing with the physical recovery of childbirth and the change in healthcare support during this period can be overwhelming and can impact your mental health. Despite what you might see in commercials, you’d be hard-pressed to find a new parent who doesn’t experience bouts of crying following the birth of their baby. Postpartum blues (also known as the "baby blues") are common in the first two weeks after delivery. However, symptoms that continue beyond those initial weeks or become more severe may be a sign of postpartum depression.
“It's not what you’re feeling, exactly. It's how often you feel it, how long you’ve been feeling that way, and how much it interferes with your everyday functioning.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD While temporarily feeling blue postpartum is to be expected, experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety requires special attention. Postpartum depression affects as many as 1 in 5 parents following birth. If you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, seek the help of your healthcare provider as soon as possible:
Even though your pregnant partner is doing the heavy lifting of labor and delivery, you’re still a key part of the whole process, especially when it comes to offering encouragement and support; timing contractions; and helping to gauge when it’s time to go to the hospital or birthing center. Remember to time contractions by the second, using the stopwatch feature on your phone or an app. You’ll time each of your partner’s contractions from start to finish to figure out how long the contractions are. Next, you’ll time the distance between the start of one contraction and the start of the next. This is how far apart your partner’s contractions are. Record all of this information and repeat the process a few times to check for regularity. Do yourself and your pregnant partner a favor and refrain from timing every contraction. Only do it when there appears to have been a change (and/or once every hour). You or partner should speak to the healthcare provider once you believe labor has started. Your doctor or midwife will give you instructions on when to head to the hospital. Don't hesitate to go straight to the hospital if:
If you are unsure of what to do, go to the hospital or birthing center. The staff can evaluate the situation and decide if it's time to be admitted or if you should go home and wait a little longer. Take direction from the hospital or birthing center staff, as well as your partner, when they're in labor—and know that just being there and holding their hand (if that brings them comfort) may be the best thing you can do in that moment. If you prefer not to see the actual birth, voice that to staff so you can be positioned at the head of the bed (or elsewhere). Once your partner and baby are discharged from the hospital and you head home for the first time as a new family, you may feel uncertain of the best ways to help, especially if your partner is breastfeeding—a unique responsibility, should they choose to. Do what you can to help your partner focus on their own recovery, as well as the care of your newborn. Bring them water when they're nursing. Change baby’s diaper. Learn how to burp baby after a feeding and how to swaddle them for soothing and sleep. Ask what supplies you can pick up at the store. Most of all, remember that in the days, weeks, and months ahead, you both will be working to learn the ins and outs of your newborn, parenthood, and perhaps even life as a family of four, five, or more, if baby has siblings. Try to be patient with and understanding of each other—and yourself. If you find yourself still pregnant and at your physician or midwife’s office this week, hang in there. Know that you are not officially considered "post-term" until you are 42 weeks pregnant. Due dates are not an exact science; things like irregular periods and an inaccurate menstrual history can throw off delivery-day calculations. Regardless, your healthcare provider may offer to strip your membranes in an effort to kickstart labor at your visit this week.
If you don’t go into labor within a week, you’ll likely have a non-stress test and/or a biophysical profile (BPP) to check on baby’s heart rate, movement, and overall well-being. Your healthcare provider will review the results to determine if an induction is advised. Postpartum Care The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) positions postpartum care as an ongoing process. After your care at birth, you should be in contact with your doctor within 3 weeks and you should see your doctor for a thorough postpartum exam no later than 12 weeks after the birth of your baby. Care should be individualized based on need and those with a high risk of postpartum depression or other health concerns should be in contact with their doctor and see their doctor sooner. During your comprehensive postpartum appointment, you can expect a:
Your provider will also answer your questions about sex and birth control. Yes, it is physically possible to get pregnant very soon after birth. Take this opportunity to also talk about your labor and delivery and clear up any questions you may have. Share how you are feeling both physically and emotionally as a new parent. Don’t hesitate to review any lingering pregnancy-related health issues such as hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and skin changes. And bring up any issues that may have recently cropped up, like urinary or anal stress incontinence. Chances are good that you just might meet your baby this week, but how you give birth will ultimately depend on a multitude of factors. Even if you plan to give birth vaginally, it can be helpful to be familiar with the alternative in case you're faced with a change in plans. Research suggests that you have a good chance of having your baby this week. In a large U.S. study of over 34 million births, 54% to 60% of those expecting had their baby between 39 and 40 weeks. A cesarean section is a surgery to deliver a baby. With this surgical procedure, instead of going through the birth canal, the baby is born through an incision in the abdomen and uterus. About 32% of babies born in the United States arrive via Cesarean section (C-section). For some, the procedure is planned due to circumstances such as: But for most people, a C-section is an unplanned change in plans due to unforeseen complications such as labor not moving along as it should or concerns for parent or baby's health during the labor process. If you have a Cesarean birth, you can expect the following:
As you near the end of your pregnancy journey, it can be tempting for all the focus to be on getting to the finish line, but if you can, take some time to reflect. Whether you basked in your pregnancy glow or struggled through challenges, try to appreciate these final moments with your baby before they are born. Most importantly, be sure to give yourself the credit you deserve for all the hard work your body has done growing and nourishing your baby-to-be, and embrace that strength as you transition to new parenthood. Page 10
Welcome to the start of your pregnancy journey. Your healthcare provider calculates your due date from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). So, your 40-week pregnancy countdown actually begins now, about two weeks before you conceive your child. At 1 week, you aren't technically pregnant yet, but it's an important time of preparation. While your body is starting a new cycle to achieve pregnancy, you and partner can prepare by talking openly about your feelings and expectations, making healthy lifestyle choices, and choosing a doctor if you don't already have one. If you’ve already taken a pregnancy test and spotted the telltale pink lines, you’re likely farther along than you think. Most home pregnancy tests detect pregnancy about two weeks after conception, so you might want to jump to week 4.
Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 39 weeks While there isn't a baby growing yet, your body is getting ready for pregnancy. During your menstrual period, the uterine lining sheds along with the unfertilized egg from the last cycle. After three to seven days of menstruation, your ovaries begin to prepare the egg that will be released at ovulation, and the lining of your uterus begins to thicken to accept that egg once it's fertilized. If all goes well, you will conceive around week 3. You can't attribute any symptoms you feel during week 1 to pregnancy just yet. This week's discomforts are brought to you by menstruation. As such, you might be feeling the way you usually do during your period. Some people don't have many menstrual symptoms at all, but for others, fluctuating hormones can lead to typical issues such as:
Now is the time to create the most hospitable and health-promoting environment possible for your baby-to-be. If you already eat well and lead an active lifestyle, that's great. If your lifestyle could use a little health boost, it's never too late to start. Small changes can make a big difference in your overall health and the health of your future pregnancy. A healthy, balanced diet full of nutritious foods provides your body with the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that you need while you're expecting. Good nutrition gives you energy and helps keep some of the common pregnancy discomforts at bay. A nutritious diet also improves the health of your pregnancy and impacts the long-term health of your future child. Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in foods. It's essential for your health and the health and development of a growing baby during pregnancy. But, it isn't always easy to get all the folate you need every day through the foods you eat. Folic acid is the synthetic supplement form of folate found in many prenatal vitamin products, but you can also find supplements with active forms of folate (often labeled as L-methylfolate or 5-MTHF). Health organizations such as the CDC, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and others recommend that individuals of childbearing age who do not have a high risk of having a child with a neural tube defect (NTD) take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid each day. Taking a folic acid supplement can help prevent congenital disabilities, including cleft lip and palate, and neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. You can take a folic acid supplement on its own, as part of a daily multivitamin, or in a prenatal vitamin.
“Taking in the correct amount [of folic acid] prior to pregnancy and during the first trimester decreases the likelihood of birth defects by 75%.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN It’s not all about what you add to your routine; it’s also about what you take away. When trying to conceive, it’s more important than ever to avoid alcohol, drugs, and tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. These habits can affect a baby and lead to genetic disorders, respiratory problems, low birth weight, fetal alcohol syndrome, and other health issues. Getting ready to carry a child includes preparing your body and your mind. Hormone changes, stress, and anxiety can affect your mental health and impact pregnancy. However, thinking about your needs and caring for your mental health before you conceive can help while you're expecting and after you give birth. Make sure you're getting enough rest, identifying your social support system, managing stress and anxiety, and talking to your mental health provider if you have other mental health concerns.
Pregnancy is between partners, and that means both parties need to take care of their health and well-being. Before trying to conceive, partners can get screened and treated for any possible sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Partners can also improve their reproductive health by limiting alcohol and quitting tobacco and recreational drug use. Studies show that men who drink excessively, smoke, or use drugs can experience problems with their sperm, making conception more difficult. Additionally, it is also important to talk about how you both feel about pregnancy and your expectations. Starting pregnancy with healthy conversations can help you both maintain good communication skills and a strong connection as you go through this journey and successfully transition to parenthood together. If you don't have a doctor or midwife yet, you will want to put that on top of your to-do list. And, if you have a healthcare provider, but haven't had a preconception appointment, now's the time to make one.
“Think of your preconception visit as an opportunity for you and your healthcare provider to control the things that you can control in a pregnancy. This visit can increase your chances of having a healthy baby.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN During a pre-pregnancy visit, your doctor or midwife can recommend a prenatal vitamin, review your medical and vaccine history, screen you for sexually transmitted infections, and give you a physical exam. It's also an opportunity to identify lifestyle, nutrition, exercise, and other personal habits that may impact your pregnancy. If you have a health condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes, be sure to talk to your doctor and do all you can to keep it under control. You should also ask the doctor about the safety of any medications, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal supplements you're taking. By following your doctor's recommendation and following up with all your healthcare providers, you will know you're doing everything you can to have the healthiest pregnancy possible.
You may see your doctor right after you get a positive result on a home pregnancy test because some doctors order a blood test to confirm pregnancy. But, you'll more likely see the doctor for your first prenatal visit around week 8. Week 1 is the perfect time to think about starting prenatal vitamins if you haven't already. Prenatal vitamins can't replace proper nutrition, but they can fill in the gaps of a less-than-perfect diet. They are also a great way to feel confident that you're getting all the nutrients you need, even if you do have healthy eating habits. Prenatal vitamins typically contain iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other vital nutrients like folic acid. However, each brand can contain different vitamins and minerals, so read the labels carefully or ask your doctor for a recommendation or prescription. A healthy pregnancy begins even before you become pregnant. So, while you're anticipating the journey, you and your partner can work on getting and staying healthy together. As you look forward, week 2 is the key to the rest of your pregnancy, as it brings the opportunity to conceive. People with regular menstrual cycles ovulate about 10 to 20 days after the first day of their period. So, write down the date your period started and pay attention to your body's fertility signals. Timing sex within five days of ovulation gives you the best chance of becoming pregnant. Page 11
It’s the second week of your 40-week pregnancy journey. Just like week one, you still aren't technically pregnant, but you’re closer than ever to that goal. During week 2, your body is getting ready to ovulate. To maximize your chances of creating a new life, now is the time to pay attention to your body's subtle fertility signals and spend some quality intimate time with your partner. Remember, your health care provider calculates your due date and the 40-week countdown from the first day of your last period. So, if you just had a positive pregnancy test and think you’ve been pregnant for two weeks, then you’d actually be at week 4.
Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 38 weeks While there is no fetal development at this time, it’s coming, and your body is preparing for it. In your ovary, an egg is maturing and getting ready to break free. Meanwhile, the lining of your uterus is growing and getting thicker to accept and nourish a new life. At the end of the week, ovulation will occur as your ovary releases the egg into your fallopian tubes. An egg can survive for 12 to 24 hours after ovulation. But, you don’t have to have sex on the exact day of ovulation. Since sperm can live up to five days in fertile cervical mucus, you can have intercourse every other day during week 2, or time intercourse a day or two before ovulation, to get the sperm in place, ready, and waiting for the egg when is released. Of the millions of sperm that start the journey to the egg, only a fraction of the healthiest and strongest will make it to the fallopian tube. Once there, only one will enter the egg. When the sperm and egg join together, it’s called fertilization. With your period in the rear-view mirror, you may be feeling pretty good this week. You may not have any symptoms at all, or you may notice a few changes in your body. Week 2 symptoms aren’t pregnancy-related, but they may be signs of ovulation. If your regular cycle is 28 days or shorter, you're likely to ovulate by the end of the week. If your cycle tends to be a little longer, you may ovulate a bit later. Keep an eye out for the symptoms below. As you approach ovulation, the cervix becomes high, soft, and slightly open. Cervical mucus that was thick, sticky, or creamy, begins to thin out. It becomes clear and watery or very stretchy like a raw egg-white. Watery and egg-white cervical mucus allows sperm to survive and swim to the egg that will soon be released.
“Before you ovulate, your estrogen levels go up, which thins the cervical mucus. The mucus looks almost like fresh egg whites—like a clear white gel. This is a big clue that ovulation is about to happen within the next few days.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Nature always seems to have a way of knowing what to do. Hormone changes leading up to ovulation can give a boost to sexual desire during the most fertile time in a person's menstrual cycle. If you feel a little more passionate than usual, you're probably approaching ovulation. Take the hint, and do what feels natural. As ovulation approaches, the hormone estrogen increases. Rising estrogen causes changes in saliva. When you look at it under a microscope, dried up non-fertile saliva looks like dots and lines whereas dry fertile saliva has a ferning pattern that looks like branches of a fern plant or a palm leaf. Research shows a connection between ferning saliva and ovulation. Mittelschmerz, or middle pain, is a dull and achy or sudden, sharp pain on one side of the lower abdomen that happens in the middle of the menstrual cycle. It typically doesn’t last long and is associated with ovulation. The problem is, not all people with menstrual cycles experience ovulation pain, and those who do may not feel it every month. Plus, other conditions can cause abdominal aches and pains such as gas or an upset stomach. So, while mittelschmerz could be a sign that an egg has just burst out of the ovary, it’s not necessarily reliable. Trying to conceive can be exciting, but it can also get stressful, especially if it's been a few months. Be sure to care for your physical and mental health this week. Eating well, engaging in regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can help you feel good and fight off stress. It can also put you on the right path to maintain a healthy weight and stay within the recommended guidelines for weight gain during your future pregnancy. Start or continue taking folic acid or a prenatal vitamin to get all the nutrients you need to stay healthy during pregnancy and help prevent health issues for you and your child-to-be. Typical everyday stress isn't likely to interfere with getting or staying pregnant. But, high levels of stress and the pressure of trying to conceive may negatively affect fertility.
"We do know that stress can lower sex drive and lead to difficulty sleeping, which can hinder the 'getting-pregnant process,' but normal everyday stressors rarely cause any long-term fertility problems or impact pregnancy.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN You can try to keep stress under control by practicing relaxation techniques, meditating, taking a walk, or spending time with friends. If you find yourself overly stressed or anxious, you can talk to your doctor or a mental health specialist. Try to keep sex an enjoyable experience between you and your partner. Sometimes when too much focus is placed on the goal rather than each other, it can seem more like a job. Partners should participate in all aspects of pregnancy. They should provide support, encouragement, and, well, partnership. The two of you are in this together, after all. But, week 2 brings a partner's most important role. It takes an egg and a sperm for this production to continue, so this week, your partner is on. Trying to conceive can be an exciting time, at first. But, when it doesn't happen in the first few months, it can turn stressful. When sexual encounters that were once spontaneous, romantic, and fun are replaced with fertility charts, ovulation kits, and on-demand sex to make a baby, it can be difficult and strain your relationship. As you make your way through baby-making sex this week, try to take some time to connect and focus on each other rather than the task at hand. Many couples use a lubricant during intercourse for both comfort and pleasure. It may be especially helpful for those having sex more frequently than usual while trying to conceive. If you use one, keep in mind that commercial lubricants can affect sperm and their mobility. When trying to conceive, it's a good idea to use fertility-friendly lubricants. You may be thinking about using ovulation predictor tests and strips to help you identify your most fertile days. Other products to help maximize your fertility and fertile window may also be on your mind this week. A day or so before ovulation, the luteinizing hormone (LH) rises in your body. Ovulation predicting strips, tests, and kits detect the surge of LH to alert you that you'll ovulate soon. Timing intercourse with a positive ovulation test can help maximize your chances of pregnancy. You may be looking for a fertility-friendly lubricant to aid sperm in moving toward the egg rather than kill them. Or perhaps, you'd like a fertility calendar that can track everything from ovulation, implantation, and when to take a pregnancy test through the milestones of the next nine months. While you don't need all the fertility-related products out there to conceive, finding what works for you can make the process a little easier. With ovulation on the way this week, the main goals are having sex and getting that egg fertilized. A few things to consider are timing sex and the actual chances of getting pregnant this cycle. It's best to assume that you can get pregnant at any time during your cycle if you have unprotected sex, especially if you have irregular periods. However, when you're trying to conceive, you're more likely to achieve your goal if you time sex when you're most fertile. Healthy sperm can remain in your cervical mucus for up to five days, so your fertile window is approximately six days long—the day of ovulation and the five days leading up to it. However, your peak fertility window is probably the two days before you ovulate, as well as the actual day of ovulation. For those with a regular 28-day cycle, your most fertile time is likely day 12 through day 14. If you tend to have longer cycles, you may ovulate later in the cycle. With shorter cycles, you could ovulate earlier. Some couples conceive the first month they try. But, for many others, it can take longer. It's disappointing when you're ready and make the plan to start your family only to find that it doesn't happen right away. However, it's important to remember that for healthy couples under 35, it can take up to a year to get pregnant.
“Under normal circumstances, the odds of a couple getting pregnant during any given month is only 20%. It’s so important to remember that getting pregnant takes time." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN In each cycle, healthy couples under age 35 have about a 20% chance of pregnancy. That means about 80% of couples will have to try again in the next month. After a year of unsuccessful trying, discuss possible issues with your doctor or midwife. If you are older than 35, it's best to seek the guidance of your healthcare provider after six months of trying. During week 2, you’ll want to pay attention to your fertility signs as your body gears up to ovulate. Engaging in regular sexual activity with your partner this week will give you the best opportunity to conceive. You can also start or continue to work on healthy lifestyle choices such as adding more nutritious foods and folate-rich foods to your everyday meal plan and trying to keep stress under control. Get ready for a big milestone next week—conception! Many people believe that pregnancy officially begins with the fertilization of the egg. Others believe it starts with implantation or a positive pregnancy test. Any way you think of it, conception is a major event because that tiny fertilized egg is going to grow and develop into your child. Page 12
Conception! Even though the start of your pregnancy journey began two weeks ago at week 1, the start of your baby’s development begins this week. While you won’t know if you’re officially pregnant until the end of week 4 or in week 5, during week 3, a new little life is beginning to take form.
Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 37 weeks Fertilization, or the joining of the egg and sperm, is the first step in your child’s development. This week the fertilized egg grows from a one-cell zygote into a ball of cells called a blastocyst. From zygote to blastocyst, your tiny baby measures 0.1 mm–0.2 mm (100–200 microns), or about the size of the head of a pin. Verywell / Bailey MarinerAfter fertilization, the egg is called a zygote. The zygote begins to divide from one cell to two, then two to four, and then four to eight, and so on. As it does, it travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus—a journey that takes three to five days. Once in the uterus, and about five days after fertilization, the ball of cells becomes a blastocyst. During week 3 development, one baby can become two. Identical twins come from the same egg and sperm with the same genetic material. The fertilized egg can split into two identical groups of cells at different stages, such as the two-cell stage or the blastocyst stage. But, it usually happens during the first week after conception. Fraternal twins are another possibility this week. Fraternal twins do not come from the same egg and sperm. It takes two eggs and two sperm to have fraternal twins. So, if you release two eggs during ovulation and each egg is fertilized by different sperm, then you’ll have two separate zygotes or fraternal twins. Even though a lot is going on in your body right now, it isn’t anything you can truly feel. During week 3, you can’t tell that you’re pregnant yet, and you don’t necessarily have any physical symptoms. You may, however, be experiencing some emotional symptoms. As you think about the beginning of this new journey, it may fill you with excitement. Or, you may feel nervous and anxious as you wait to take a pregnancy test. Of course, you can go back and forth between emotions or even experience them all at the same time. It is all very normal. Pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster, even this early. When your tiny baby reaches your uterus, it will find a spot to attach or implant into the uterine wall. As it burrows in, it sometimes causes a small amount of bleeding or spotting. If you do not see any spotting around the time of implantation, it doesn’t mean you aren’t pregnant. Not everyone will have this symptom.
“The blood is a natural byproduct of the embryo burrowing into the uterine wall and delicate, new blood vessels breaking apart.” Implantation and implantation spotting are more likely to take place next week, during week 4. However, it can happen as early as six days after ovulation, so at the very end of week 3. Weeks 3 and 4 of pregnancy are a bit of a waiting game. Continue to care for yourself by trying to eat well, getting in some activity, and staying positive. Start or continue to add healthy foods to your daily diet to get all the nutrients you need to nourish your body and a growing baby—especially iron and folate. It’s not always easy to get all the nutrition you need through your diet, so start or continue to take prenatal vitamins. Vitamins aren’t a substitution for healthy eating, but they do help fill in the gaps. Staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight, give you energy, boost your mood, and reduce stress. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends 150 minutes of physical activity per week. But don’t overdo it. And, don’t forget to talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program if you have any health concerns. As you prepare physically for pregnancy, you can also prepare mentally. Positive affirmations are thoughts and phrases that you repeat to yourself. They can help you overcome any fear or anxiety you have as you wait for a pregnancy test. Try saying something like, “My body is ready and capable of nourishing a baby.” It certainly doesn’t hurt to think positively. Now is a good time for partners to encourage healthier lifestyle choices by participating in them. Go grocery shopping together to pick out some healthy meal choices and cook them together. Get some fresh air, go for a walk, and spend time engaging in physical activities you both enjoy. Stay away from alcohol and other harmful substances together. It’s easier to make good choices and stick with the changes when you support and encourage each other. You might be looking for information this week as you wait to find out the news. Take a look at some pregnancy books and consider purchasing a home pregnancy test to have on hand when it’s time to test. It’s too early to take a home pregnancy test in week 3. But, by the middle or later part of next week, you might be able to detect the pregnancy hormone hCG in your urine with a sensitive early test. Pregnancy books can provide information, tips, answers to questions, and even a little humor. Some books are a great resource to help ease your mind, and others are fun and relatable when you need a good laugh. Week 3 puts you between ovulation and taking a pregnancy test. That leaves you with a little time on your hands. The wait might be easy or a little stressful. Try to resist the temptation to take an early test. Instead, stay busy by researching healthcare providers, getting together with friends, or doing things you enjoy. Again, there’s no need to schedule a prenatal appointment just yet. However, if you haven’t decided on a doctor or a midwife, you can use this time to further scope out what sort of healthcare provider you’d like to see throughout your pregnancy. Ask local friends and family who’ve recently had a baby for their recommendations. Next, make some appointments with a few practitioners. Tell them you’re in the market for a new provider and that you’d like to have an initial meeting to get to know them and ask questions.
“Don’t be afraid to hold your OB/GYN or midwife to a high standard. Right now, you might not even know what’s important to you. As your pregnancy progresses and you learn more about your options, you may discover that the provider you selected does not fit your ideals any longer—and that’s OK.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN The two-week wait between ovulation and taking a pregnancy test can be exciting, but hard. If you’ve been trying to conceive for a while or you’re undergoing fertility treatments, the two-week wait can feel like an eternity. You might obsess and analyze every twinge and tingle looking for any sign of pregnancy. You might spend a lot of time worrying about all the “what-ifs.” Excitement, anxiety, and worry are all normal emotions, but it’s important to try to manage them. Keep busy and find ways to distract yourself when the worries return. Talk about your feelings with your partner, then do something fun together. Or, reach out to your friends or an online group to help you get through the long days of waiting. Pregnancy tests detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This pregnancy hormone rises quickly in your body after implantation, but during week 3, it is too early to detect hCG. Even the most sensitive tests will not pick up the pregnancy hormone until sometime next week.
“It’s hard to wait. Uncertainty can be very anxiety-provoking, but there’s something to be said for accepting your lack of control. It can actually be a great relief.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD Testing too early is unreliable as it can lead to a false result. If it’s negative, it doesn’t mean that you aren’t pregnant—it could just be too early to tell. You can avoid that disappointment if you wait a little longer. If you are undergoing fertility treatments, testing too early can result in a false positive. The test can pick up hCG leftover from your trigger shot. It doesn’t mean you are pregnant, and it doesn’t mean you aren’t. It means you have to test again later when the time is right. It can be tough to wait, but the best time to take a pregnancy test is after you miss your period. Week 3 brings the amazing dawn of new life. You can’t feel it or see it yet, but it’s making its way to your uterus, where it will find the perfect spot to call home for the next 37 weeks. Implantation may take place at the very end of this week, but it’s more likely your tiny creation will attach and begin the next stage of growth next week. The end of week 4 also brings the possibility of a positive early home pregnancy test. Page 13
During week 4, the tiny life you and your partner created just a week ago is implanting and settling into its new home in your uterus, where it will grow and develop over the next 36 weeks. Along with implantation, comes a rise in the pregnancy hormone hCG. At the end of this week, there may be enough hCG to detect with a sensitive early home pregnancy test.
4 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 1 month Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 36 weeks Starting at week 4, your baby is called an embryo. At just 0.2 mm, your little embryo is about the size of a poppy seed. Verywell / Bailey MarinerWhen the fertilized egg is in the uterus and attaches to the uterine wall it is called implantation. Implantation usually takes place six to ten days after ovulation. So, if it didn't happen at the end of week 3, your budding baby will burrow into your uterine lining this week. There inside your fertilized egg are all the cells that will develop into your baby and what your baby needs to survive for the next nine months. The inner cells begin to transform into your baby’s organs and body parts. The outer cells start to form the placenta. It’s tough to tell if you’re having early pregnancy symptoms during week 4. Many of the first signs of pregnancy are the same as the common premenstrual symptoms. However, you may notice a triphasic basal body temperature pattern or implantation spotting. Of course, some people do not have any signs this early. Changing hormones in your body can cause symptoms similar to those you get before your period. Bloating, fatigue, mood changes, tender breasts, and even mild cramps are common signs of early pregnancy. If you track your basal body temperature (BBT) on a chart, you may know that a consistent rise in temperature indicates ovulation. A chart showing ovulation has two phases or levels of temperatures. Sometimes, there is a second rise or third level of consistent temperatures that begins about seven to twelve days after ovulation. A chart with three distinct temperature levels is called triphasic (three phases), and it’s a possible sign of pregnancy. But, it isn’t a definite sign since not all pregnancy charts show a triphasic pattern, and not all triphasic charts end in a pregnancy. Around the time your baby is implanting or burrowing into your uterus, you may experience a small amount of vaginal spotting or light bleeding. While you may mistake it for a lighter-than-normal menstrual flow, it may be your first sign of pregnancy. But, don't worry if you don’t have implantation spotting because not everyone will have or notice this symptom. The wait to test is almost over, but it can still be stressful. So, use this time to try to stay busy and care for yourself. Eating well, getting in a little physical exercise, and taking some extra time to rest can go a long way to help you combat symptoms such as fatigue and mood changes. If you find yourself anxiously waiting to take a pregnancy test, the time could seem to slow down to a halt. Try to keep busy and find other things to focus on to make the time go faster and give your mind a break from the testing thoughts. It’s hard for partners to wait for the pregnancy test result, too. It’s natural for you both to be on edge. Take this time to distract yourselves together with some fun just-the-two-of-you activities. It’s almost time to take a pregnancy test. You may want to purchase one this week or early next week. Your baby begins to produce hCG before it attaches to the uterus, but once implantation takes place, hCG levels in your body rise quickly. Sensitive early pregnancy tests can detect small amounts of hCG in your urine as early as 10 days after conception. When you’re excited about that possible positive result, it can be hard to wait. If you do take an early test, it might turn out exactly as you hoped. However, testing too soon could also lead to a false-negative or a false-positive result. By the end of week 4, the level of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is rising in your body. As the hCG levels go up, it can sometimes (but not always) lead to early pregnancy symptoms. The thing is, there’s still likely not enough of the hormone present in your body to be detected by a pregnancy test yet.
“Many patients test too early, get a negative result, and then get the false impression that they are not pregnant.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN On the flip side, an early positive pregnancy test may indicate a chemical pregnancy. A chemical pregnancy is one that ends shortly after implantation.
“While some women may want to know about this loss, many don’t. It’s hard to wait. Uncertainty can be very anxiety-provoking, but there’s something to be said for accepting your lack of control. It can actually be a great relief.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD While it's still a week of waiting, incredible events are happening during week 4. By the end of the week, implantation will be complete, and you will have a little embryo. You may even receive some early positive news. Next week, the wait is finally over. When taken correctly, home pregnancy tests are about 99% accurate on the first day of a missed period. So, get ready for the official big news! Page 14
You’re officially pregnant! You may have noticed something missing this week—your period. A missed period is what typically leads most people to take a pregnancy test. That positive result can bring a flood of reactions from excitement to fear. And, while your baby might be too small to see, at 5 weeks pregnant, you may already be feeling its presence both physically and emotionally.
5 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 1 month and 1 week Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 35 weeks At 5 weeks, a baby measures approximately 1/17th of an inch or 1.5 mm. That's about the size of a strawberry seed. The baby is growing rapidly, and the major organ systems of their body are beginning are to form, specifically the brain and the heart. Verywell / Bailey MarinerAt this time, your little embryo begins to lengthen and take on the appearance of a tadpole thanks, in part, to the development of the all-important neural tube that runs from the top to the bottom of the embryo. (This tube will grow to become the spinal cord and brain.) There’s even a tiny blip at the center of the embryo that will soon develop into baby’s heart. Inside of your embryo, the cells are separating into three layers to form different body systems:
The gestational sac is a ball of fluid that forms around your developing baby. At 5 weeks, your embryo is too small to see yet, but the gestational sac may be visible on an ultrasound.
Explore a few of your baby’s week 5 milestones in this interactive experience. The level of the pregnancy hormone hCG in your body is on the rise, which brings not only a positive pregnancy test but also early pregnancy symptoms. It's important to know, however, that some people don’t experience any symptoms and the lack of symptoms in no way reflects the health and well-being of their growing babies. Even having experienced symptoms in a prior pregnancy can’t predict how you will feel this go-round. The absence of menstruation is often one of the first signs of pregnancy that alert a person to take a pregnancy test. The increased production of progesterone during pregnancy prevents your uterine lining from shedding and helps maintain your pregnancy. Your breasts may feel tender, tingly, or larger. You are more likely to experience early breast changes if you tend to notice them before your period. Your body is working hard, and you are going through many physical and emotional changes. It’s perfectly normal to feel tired and in need of a nap. Fatigue is considered a universal symptom this early in pregnancy. Nausea, with or without vomiting, is one of the most common discomforts of pregnancy. The exact cause isn’t known, but experts believe the quick rise of pregnancy hormones may be the culprit. It is typical during the first three months, although it can last longer. And, despite being called morning sickness, the queasiness can come on at any time during the day. Frequent urination is a common complaint even this early in pregnancy. Those pregnancy hormones cause an increase in blood flow and fluid in your body. So, your kidneys are working overtime to get rid of the waste. There is no one universal emotion or feeling that every person who is pregnant experiences and your feelings about your pregnancy may change from week to week or even hour to hour. Whether you’re excited to learn you’re pregnant or not, it’s important to know that pregnancy can be emotionally complicated. Just remember that your reaction—whether positive, negative, or ambivalent—is normal.
“You may even surprise yourself by your reaction. The most important thing is that you don’t feel guilty about how you feel.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD Most people find out they're expecting during week 5. Learning that you're pregnant can be overwhelming, but so can thoughts of all you have to do to prepare over the next 35 weeks. Take a deep breath and take it one step at time. If you haven’t already, it’s time to take the big test. A positive home pregnancy test on the first day of your missed period is up to 99% accurate. Continue to take a folic acid supplement or prenatal vitamins. As your baby’s nervous system is forming, folate is an essential nutrient that helps prevent neural tube defects. You don't have to give up all your favorite foods now that you're pregnant. A healthy pregnancy diet is balanced, and you can still enjoy some less nutritious treats now and then. But, some foods can increase your risk of illness and infection, which can be dangerous to your developing baby. You will want to stay away from:
It is typically not dangerous to have pets such as a cat or dog during pregnancy. But, all animals have the potential to cause harm or pass diseases to their humans. You can keep yourself, your unborn baby, and your pet healthy and safe by talking to your doctor and the vet about the best way to care for your pet while you’re expecting and after you bring your new baby home. While you’re likely hyper-focused on scheduling—and going to—your first prenatal appointment, you should also consider making an appointment to see a dentist. In fact, the American Dental Association, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) all encourage people to see the dentist while they are pregnant. The same hormonal changes that bring about nausea and breast tenderness can cause gum inflammation (pregnancy gingivitis). If ignored, pregnancy gingivitis may lead to a more serious gum infection called periodontitis, which increases the chance of preterm birth. Staying away from toxic substances during your entire pregnancy is wise. However, the first trimester is particularly crucial. During the embryo stage, your baby's organs and tissues are developing. It's a sensitive time when outside influences can affect your baby's body parts as they form. Talk to your doctor about any prescriptions, over-the-counter medicine, or herbal supplements you're taking. You should also avoid harmful substances such as alcohol, smoking (including second-hand smoke), and recreational drugs as well as potentially hazardous activities such as sitting in a hot tub, going on a roller coaster, or getting a tattoo. Learning that you and your partner are soon-to-be parents is heavy for both of you, whether your pregnancy was planned for or not. While they may be going through the physical symptoms, both of you are going through a natural emotional roller coaster. Compassion and empathy all around is always the way to go.
“Try your best not to minimize stresses or insecurities. At the same time, both parties should seek out emotional and practical support from books and friends.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD Once you learn that you are pregnant, go ahead and call the doctor to schedule your first prenatal appointment. Don’t forget to have the date of your last menstrual period ready to share. Your doctor may want you to go to the office or to a lab to have your blood drawn before your appointment. Blood tests can confirm a home urine pregnancy test. If you are high risk or undergoing fertility treatments, you may have blood drawn to check these numbers a few times. You may also have an ultrasound this week to check for a gestational sac. Your embryo is too small to see yet, but the gestational sac may be visible when your hCG level is around 2000 mIU/ml. Now that you know you're pregnant, you may be wondering about your due date, worried about the health of your pregnancy, or concerned about upcoming travel plans and dangers. Your doctor will calculate your due date at your first prenatal visit, but you can figure it out yourself. Pregnancy lasts 280 days or 40 weeks from the first day of your last period. You can:
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. It occurs in approximately 1% to 2% of pregnancies. An ectopic pregnancy is dangerous, so symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, pain, and dizziness should be reported to your doctor right away. If you are at risk for an ectopic pregnancy, or there is any concern about your pregnancy, your doctor will order blood work and an ultrasound. Pregnant individuals should avoid traveling to areas in the United States and worldwide where there’s a risk of contracting the Zika virus. The virus and resulting fever can lead to several birth disabilities, including microcephaly in which babies develop smaller-than-normal heads and possible brain damage. Zika is spread by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact with an infected person. Since there is no vaccine and no cure, it’s essential to check the CDC’s Travel Health Notices to see the most current areas where the Zika virus is spreading. If you must travel to an area where Zika risk is high, talk to your doctor first. Learn how to properly prevent mosquito bites and protect yourself when engaging in sexual activity. Week 5 brings big news. It’s amazing how two little lines or a plus sign could be so life-changing. As it begins to sink in, you may be feeling your first pregnancy symptoms. Next week may bring an increase in symptoms, your first prenatal doctor visit, and the possibility of seeing a tiny heartbeat. Page 15
While the reality of pregnancy may still be sinking in, your body and your baby are changing quickly. At week 6, more of your baby's organs are starting to form, and you may be beginning to feel the full force of your pregnancy hormones.
6 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 1 month and 2 weeks Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 34 weeks At 6 weeks, your baby has a crown-rump length (CRL) of approximately 5 millimeters (almost a 1/4 inch). That's about the size of a grain of rice. Verywell / Bailey MarinerYour embryo doesn’t look much like a baby yet, but there's a lot going on inside that tiny early life.
Explore a few of your baby’s week 6 milestones in this interactive experience. On the outside, you may not look different, but you're probably feeling a bit different this week. Pregnancy hormones often kick in around week 6. Pregnancy symptoms are unpredictable. They may be really strong for some but mild or not too noticeable for others. They may stick around the entire day, or they may come and go. They can definitely be a source of worry. So, if you have questions or concerns about symptoms, it's OK to call your doctor. Fatigue is a normal part of early pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, can make you feel tired. Your body is also working hard, adjusting to all the physical and emotional changes that pregnancy brings. Lack of sleep, not eating well, excessive stress, and anemia can also contribute to a lack of energy. Up to 80% of expectant parents have first-trimester nausea and vomiting. That queazy, sick-to-your stomach feeling may be dubbed morning sickness, but for many, it's really "all-day sickness" since it can hit at any time of day—including in the middle of the night. The exact cause is not known, but the surge of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) coursing through your body is a likely culprit.
"Two to three weeks after conception—which is about week 6 of your pregnancy—is often when morning sickness starts." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Nausea and vomiting aren’t the only things causing you to run to the bathroom. During pregnancy, the amount of blood pumped by the heart each minute increases by 30% to 50%. As the amount of blood and fluid flowing through your body increases, your kidneys begin to work more efficiently, leading to more urination. Changes in your kidneys start right away and peak between week 16 and week 28. On top of that, your bladder sits directly in front of your uterus. As your uterus grows, it pushes against the bladder, which means you’ll feel the urge to urinate more frequently. Just as different people experience different pregnancy symptoms, they handle them differently as well. You may have to try a few different things before you find what works best for you. Feeling tired is your body's way of telling you it wants to rest. If you can, take a short nap. But, if responsibilities during the day prevent you from sneaking away to get some extra sleep, you can try to deal with fatigue in other ways, including:
If you are frequently using the bathroom to urinate, that’s good news. You’re likely getting enough water, and staying hydrated is vital for your health and the health of your developing baby. It doesn't mean the frequent urination isn't a bit annoying, though.
"While it can be inconvenient, it’s so important not to hold your urine for long periods of time." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Likewise, if you’re not urinating more than usual, this could be a sign that you may need more fluids—or that you may be ignoring your body’s cues.
To keep nausea and vomiting at bay (or at least try to tame it):
"If you’re feeling very nauseous and have no appetite, it’s OK to skip a meal. You’re not going to harm your growing baby. Instead, simply focus on staying hydrated and feeling better." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Also, research in Integrative Medicine Insights notes that ginger is a safe, effective, and inexpensive treatment for pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. You can consume raw or crystallized ginger, ginger capsules or lollipops, or ginger tea. But if nothing is working for you, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider to prescribe a safe anti-nausea medication. Beyond the obvious physical unpleasantries of nausea and vomiting, there’s an emotional toll, too. Early pregnancy symptoms can be tough, and if you're not ready to share the news just yet, you may not have much support.
"Unfortunately, nausea usually starts during the window when women are encouraged to keep a lid on their pregnancy news, making asking for help and understanding much trickier. If you’re feeling sick, it’s important for your mental health to ask for support when you need it. And don't try to minimize how lousy you feel." —Nitzia Logothetis, MSc, MA, MHC-LP You can always reach out to your doctor and share how you feel. Or, talk to a trusted friend or family member you can count on to help you through while keeping your secret. You may get some tips to help you feel physically better, and some support to help you feel mentally and emotionally better. Exercise is important during the first trimester and throughout pregnancy. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that most pregnant individuals participate in moderate exercise for 20 to 30 minutes on most days. Perhaps, you can start an after-dinner or early-morning walk routine to help your partner get some exercise and spend quality time together. Research shows that couples are more likely to stick with healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise when they participate in them together. Plus, it will give you both a chance to de-stress. That said, be understanding if your partner chooses to rest over exercise in these early weeks.
"Even though exercise has been shown to help with nausea by releasing natural endorphins, some women feel too fatigued to do it." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN You may not see your doctor until week 8 or even a little later, but some people will have their first prenatal appointment as early as week 6. Prepare yourself by gathering some vital information that your healthcare provider will likely ask for during the first visit. (You may even want a designated pregnancy notebook to jot everything down in, so your notes and questions are always in the same spot.) Some things you may want to record before the initial visit include:
At the same time, write down any questions or concerns you’d like to go over. Reviewing popular questions asked by other parents-to-be is an excellent way to get started. Not all prenatal appointments will include an ultrasound. You are more likely to have an early ultrasound if you took fertility medication, have a history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, or if there are concerns such as pain or bleeding. At 6 weeks pregnant, the doctor may use an early ultrasound to:
You’ll be seeing your healthcare provider a lot for the duration of your pregnancy. In general, you can expect to go in every month until you are 28 weeks along. From weeks 28 to 36, your visits will likely increase to two appointments a month. Once you hit the 36-week mark, plan on a weekly check-up. (While typical, this schedule is not true for all pregnancies. If you are considered high risk, for example, you may be seeing your healthcare provider more often.) During pregnancy, symptoms such as urinary frequency and spotting can be perfectly normal or a sign that something else is going on. It's always OK to call your doctor to ask about a new symptom, especially if you're concerned. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection in pregnancy. But since the traditional signs of a UTI—like urgency and frequency of urination—are typical in pregnancy, you may not realize that you even have an infection. Because of this, it’s important to be aware of other UTI symptoms, like pain, burning, or discomfort when urinating; blood or mucus in the urine; and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. If you experience any of these, contact your healthcare provider who can confirm and treat any infection with antibiotics. Many expecting parents put off sharing the big news for fear of miscarriage, which is a common concern in the first trimester. You may be analyzing every little twinge or ache. But, minor cramps and even a little a bit of bleeding can be perfectly normal. On the other hand, if you experience spotting that lasts more than a day or two, heavy bleeding, or painful cramps, call your doctor or go to the emergency room. An ultrasound can help the health care team figure out what's going on.
"I’ve had patients who’ve had a significant amount of bleeding in their first trimester go on to have perfectly normal pregnancies. However, it’s hard to distinguish what’s normal and what’s not without getting an ultrasound." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Your baby’s heart begins beating this week, and you may even have the opportunity to see it if you're scheduled to see your healthcare provider. There is still a long way to go, but your little embryo is growing and developing more and more each day. Next week, the baby continues to grow as you continue to feel the effects of your changing body and hormones. Page 16
At 7 weeks pregnant, you may feel like you're expecting, but you don’t quite look like it yet. You may have gained a couple of pounds or even lost some weight due to morning sickness. You may be "glowing" or struggling with acne. But, no matter your outward appearance, there are certainly some big changes happening inside.
7 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 1 month and 3 weeks Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 33 weeks At 7 weeks, a baby is a little more than 1/3 of an inch long (about 1 centimeter). That's about the size of a standard blueberry. Verywell / Bailey MarinerStill so tiny, by the end of this week your baby-to-be will be about doubled the size of last week. Body systems and physical features continue to develop.
Explore a few of your baby’s week 7 milestones in this interactive experience. As for you, morning sickness and frequent urination may continue or begin this week. Along with these symptoms, you may also notice changes in your skin, vaginal discharge, and sense of smell. Remember, every person and every pregnancy are different. You may experience one, some, many, or all of these symptoms. Your cervix gets a lot of attention at the end of pregnancy when you're waiting for it to efface and dilate. But, there’s actually a lot happening in this area right now. The uptick in hormones and blood flow during pregnancy increases the production of cervical mucus, dubbed leukorrhea. You may notice it as a thin, milky-white, odorless discharge. This cervical mucus gathers and clumps together to become your mucus plug. It is exactly what you think it is: a plug made of mucus. Its job is to seal the opening of the cervix to protect you and your growing baby by preventing bacteria from getting into the uterus. You know that famed pregnancy glow people are always talking about? That might be your only outward sign of pregnancy right now. More blood flowing to your face can give you a rosy glow while pregnancy hormones can make your skin more oily and shiny than before.
“The glow is not a myth. While not everyone gets it, if your cheeks have a rosy glow, it’s likely caused by the great increase of blood flow during pregnancy.” —Robin Evans, MD While that telltale baby bump has yet to arrive, you might be feeling bigger than normal thanks to gas, bloating, and constipation. You can credit the increase of progesterone for that. Progesterone relaxes smooth muscle cells, making the small and large intestines move more slowly resulting in more water absorption and firmer stools. Pregnancy can turn your sense of smell into a superpower. It's an interesting symptom that some believe helps an expectant mom avoid danger. But, it can be trouble if you're struggling with morning sickness and the slightest whiff of an offending odor can send you running to the bathroom. Eating well (or doing your best to while managing nausea), drinking enough fluids, resting, and taking some time for yourself are constants on the list every week. In addition, this week you may want give your skin and digestive tract some extra attention. To help deflate your distended belly and ease discomfort, continue to drink plenty of water, get a little exercise, and eat more insoluble fiber, such as whole wheat, flax, fruit with skins, vegetables, brown rice, and lentils.
“Because it easy to get sick of drinking plain water all day, I like to recommend hot water with squeezed lemon, or tossing fresh ginger, mint, cucumbers, berries, or any fruit into your glass." —Dana Angelo White, MS, RD The pregnancy glow may be due to the increase in blood flow, but pregnancy hormones may also have a hand in it. Hormones might be causing the glands on your skin to pump out more oil. Oil can give you a sheen, but it can also lead to prenatal acne. If your glow goes the way of acne, care for your skin by washing with a gentle cleanser every day and using an oil-free moisturizer. Some topical treatments such as benzoyl-peroxide and certain antibiotic creams or solutions are considered safe, but salicylic acid, Retin-A (tretinoin), Accutane (isotretinoin), and others are not. Your best bet is to check with your healthcare provider before treating breakouts. It’s natural for a pregnant parent-to-be to feel out of place in their own skin right about now. They're expecting, but they don't look like it yet, and they may feel bigger even though there’s no baby bump to speak of. Meanwhile, their breasts and skin are experiencing changes, too. You—perhaps the only one who is aware of the pregnancy—might want to show that you notice the little changes. But be gentle. Know that even well-intended positive comments can make your pregnant partner feel self-conscious and anxious. Listen to your partner and how they are speaking of the pregnancy and their body so you can offer the best support.
You may have had your first prenatal visit as early as last week (week 6), or you may have it in the next few weeks. This appointment is a longer-than-average appointment where a lot gets done. For instance, your healthcare provider will take a blood and urine sample, you might have a Pap smear, and possibly an ultrasound to confirm that your baby is growing and thriving. After your first prenatal visit, you typically see your health care provider for prenatal check-ups about once a month until 28 weeks (7 months). Then, you will go more often. Nausea and vomiting are common in 70% to 80% of pregnancies. Severe nausea and vomiting are much less common but can be dangerous for an expecting parent and developing baby. Hyperemesis gravidarum is prolonged, extreme nausea with uncontrollable vomiting that can lead to dehydration and weight loss. It affects up to 2.3% of pregnancies. The symptoms typically begin early in pregnancy, peak around week 9, and subside by week 20. If you suspect you may have hyperemesis gravidarum, talk to your healthcare provider. During week 7 of your pregnancy, you may be dealing with a full set of early pregnancy symptoms. Just remember that it's just as normal to have a lot of symptoms as it is to only to have a few, and it's always OK to call your doctor to ask about any symptoms if you're worried. Your early pregnancy discomforts continue next week, along with the rapid growth and development of your baby. During week 8, your tiny embryo is beginning to look more and more like a little human. Page 17
You are two months pregnant! At 8 weeks pregnant, your baby's arms and legs are growing as their facial features are beginning to take shape. And, while the world can't yet see your growing baby bump, you may be noticing that your clothes are starting to feel a tad tight in the waist.
8 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 2 months Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 32 weeks At 8 weeks, a baby is typically between 1/2 and 3/4 inch long (1.5 to 2 centimeters), about the size and shape of kidney bean. Some parents even nickname their baby "the little bean" around this time, especially after catching a glimpse of the baby on an early ultrasound. This week, your baby's physical features are becoming more noticeable, body systems and organs are continuing to develop, and the baby is starting to look more and more like a little human. Verywell / Bailey Mariner
Explore a few of your baby’s week 8 milestones in this interactive experience. As you may have already heard, pregnancy symptoms are inconsistent from one person to the next and from one pregnancy to the next. So, these are not symptoms you should definitely have at this time. They may have started last week, they may start next week, or you may be lucky and not experience them at all. Morning sickness and fatigue are likely to continue this week, but you may (or may not) also experience mild cramping, dizziness, and breast changes. Even though you can't quite see much of a difference, your uterus is started to grow. This normal and natural uterine expansion can lead to some mild stretching and cramping pain. Constipation, gas, and diarrhea can also cause a bit of abdominal discomfort in early pregnancy. Occasional, mild twinges are usually not a concern. However, if cramps and pain are severe, happen often, or are constant, call your doctor or go to the emergency room to get it checked out. There are a few issues that can lead to dizziness during pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones that cause your blood vessels to relax and widen can bring about low blood pressure and a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness. Hormones can also affect the inner ear, which can interfere with your balance or hearing and lead to dizziness and vomiting. Other causes of dizziness include low blood sugar from not eating, dehydration from not drinking enough fluids, moving suddenly from sitting or lying down to standing, or having a low level of iron in your blood (anemia). If you feel dizzy, lie down. Rest, food, and a drink of water should help. However, if the dizziness continues, call your doctor. Breast changes begin in early pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones affect your breasts right away as they begin preparing your body for the arrival of your baby. As the milk-making tissue in your breast grows, you may notice your breasts getting larger. You may also notice veins on the surface skin of your breasts as more blood flows to the area, the nipple and areola may get darker, and your breast may feel full and sore. As the idea of pregnancy starts to settle in, you may be thinking about your weight and your changing body. But, with nausea, dizziness, and frequent urination distracting you, it can be challenging just to stay comfortable and keep some food and fluids down. After the official weigh-in at your first prenatal visit, you may be wondering about pregnancy weight gain. It’s healthy, natural, and expected for people who are pregnant to gain about two to four pounds during the first trimester. Of course, everyone is different, and it’s also normal for people to lose weight during the first trimester due to nausea and vomiting.
"You may alternate between feeling nauseous—and having no appetite—and ravenous, especially early on, thanks to a complex interaction of hormones including progesterone, insulin, leptin, and ghrelin.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN If you find you’re shunning a lot of food, make sure you stay hydrated and take those prenatal vitamins. (Down them with a food you can tolerate to help curb vitamin-related nausea.) And if you’re feeling hungrier than ever before, go ahead and answer your cravings with nutritious, whole foods that will satisfy. Ah, retail therapy—and now you have a good reason. While you probably aren't quite "showing," you may notice your clothes fit a bit tighter. You don't have to shop in the maternity department yet (unless you want to), but a few pairs of pants with a stretchy waist will help you feel more comfortable. Take a look through the intimates department, too. Your pre-pregnancy bras may also be getting tight and putting pressure on already sore breasts. A new, more comfortable size or style can make a difference. Eating a few healthy snacks during the day is one way to fight off some of the discomforts of pregnancy. Eating small meals and snacks more often can give more energy throughout the day, fend off dizziness associated with low blood sugar, and prevent that empty stomach nausea from sneaking up on you. So, keep healthy, easy-to-grab snacks, like apples and peanut butter or hummus and whole wheat pita chips, within reach.
While your pregnant partner is probably not sporting a baby belly just yet, that won’t last much longer. If you’re hoping to document the bump progression, now’s a good time to start snapping those monthly pictures. At the same time, know it’s OK if the two of you want some alone time to process all that’s going on. While you do that, take some time to pamper your partner and yourself. If you soon-to-be parents spend time nurturing your own mental well-being, it can only be good for your baby. You may have seen your doctor as early as week 6. But week 8 is a common time for the first prenatal visit. It’s likely your longest and most comprehensive appointment.
While you won't have to have a blood test at every prenatal visit, you may need to pee in a cup for a urine screen at every visit, depending on your risk factors. An 8-week ultrasound is not a must, so you may or may not have one. Some insurance plans won’t cover more than a certain number of ultrasounds, so this one may be deemed unnecessary. Plus, not all healthcare providers feel early ultrasounds are necessary. Some people have many ultrasounds during pregnancy, while some don’t have any. There are no set standards or rules.
If you're healthy and there are no complicating factors, you can expect to see your healthcare provider in about a month, when you're 12 weeks pregnant. The typical every-four-week visits continue until week 28. After that, it's every two weeks until 36 weeks, then once a week until you deliver. If you opt for prenatal testing, it usually begins in the next few weeks. First-trimester screening occurs between week 10 and week 13. It may include either or both of these tests: Screening tests tell you what the chances are that your baby may have a disorder. They cannot tell you if your baby actually has the condition. Whether these tests are right for you is a decision between you, your partner, and your healthcare provider. With all that's going on in your body during the first few weeks of pregnancy, it's important to know when it's time to ask for help or see a doctor. It's easy to put things in the back of your mind or think of them as normal. But, seeking help right away for issues as they come up, can make all the difference. If you've ever experienced concerns or challenges revolving around body image, weight, or control over your body, pregnancy has a way of bringing all those issues to light.
“Know that it’s always OK to seek support from a mental health professional to navigate these potentially complicated issues and to engage in self-care." —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD For help finding an appropriate mental health professional near you, consider reaching out to Postpartum Support International. Despite what the name implies, the group focuses on perinatal (pre-birth) issues as well. Some pregnancy symptoms are reassuring because they make you feel pregnant. But, some symptoms can be scary. Strange aches and twinges or spotting can certainly cause worry. You should always feel comfortable calling your healthcare provider's office to ask questions about your symptoms. However, you should definitely call or go to the hospital in the following circumstances: You should also make that call if you can't keep anything down, you have a fever, you have pain when you urinate, or you just don't feel right. If you saw your healthcare provider this week, you most likely received a lot of information and had some of your questions answered. You may feel better about some of your concerns, or you may have even more questions now. There's no need to worry. You will be seeing your doctor regularly from here on out. Plus, you can (and should) call the office if something can't wait. Next week, your baby and your uterus continue to grow as you begin your third month of pregnancy. You may be feeling the full force of morning sickness, though, as it peaks around week 9. Page 18
The first two months of pregnancy are behind you. At 9 weeks pregnant, morning sickness is peaking, and you may be dealing with mood swings, heartburn, and other pregnancy symptoms. Meanwhile, your baby is growing, looking more human, and even moving around.
9 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 2 months and 1 week Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 31 weeks At 9 weeks, a baby is approximately 1 inch long (2.5 to 3 centimeters). That's about the size of an average cherry. The baby is growing quickly and taking on a much more human-like appearance every day. The physical features, organs, and body systems continue to develop. Verywell / Bailey MarinerBaby's body continues to straighten out while the embryonic tail disappears. Their paddle-like hands and feet are starting to transform as little fingers and toes are becoming more visible. Baby also has ear lobes and the very tip of their nose can be seen in profile. Baby's eyelids continue to form and cover more of the eyes. Baby's heart and the arterial system continues to develop while the bones of the ribs and sternum are taking shape. Baby's pancreas, liver, and bile ducts are also forming at this stage. The baby is moving around, bending, and wiggling. These movements are visible on ultrasound, but you can't feel them just yet.
Explore a few of your baby’s week 9 milestones in this interactive experience. As for you, morning sickness typically peaks this week. Other symptoms, such as fatigue and frequent urination, may continue. You might also be dealing with heartburn, itchy breasts, and the emotional ups-and-downs of pregnancy. Your emotions have likely taken you on a roller-coaster ride these past few weeks. You’re not alone. Generally speaking, mood swings hit the hardest between week 6 and week 10, returning during the third trimester as you mentally and physically prepare for birth. Mood changes are expected and are spurred, in part, by estrogen and progesterone fluctuations. These hormonal changes can affect the level of mood-regulating brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. But there’s more at play here than just hormones. The physical, social, and emotional stressors of pregnancy can all contribute to your up-and-down mood. When it comes to heartburn during pregnancy, you can blame those hormones again—specifically progesterone. Progesterone relaxes the smooth muscle in your body and slows down digestion so you can absorb more nutrients from the food you eat. But, there's a sphincter at the top of the stomach made of smooth muscle. It keeps food and stomach acid down. As it relaxes, it's easier for food and acid to go back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn or indigestion. Sore breasts are mentioned in week 8. In addition to soreness, changing hormones, plus the growing and stretching of the skin on your breasts, can lead to itchiness. Itchy skin is more common in the second and third trimester, but it can start as early as the first trimester. Applying a moisturizing body oil or lotion can help ease the discomfort. It may be a more emotional week with some changing moods as you go from excited to worried or happy to nervous when you think about your baby, your symptoms, or even parenthood. Take time to care for your mental health and try to find some relief from those uncomfortable symptoms. Just knowing that the ups-and-downs are a normal and expected part of pregnancy can help you feel better. But since fatigue, low blood sugar, and stress can contribute to mood changes, there are a few things you can do to help your mood:
If you have sore, itchy breasts, talk to your doctor about treatment options. You can also avoid hot baths and showers, soaps that dry out your skin, and detergents or clothing that are irritating. Instead, take cool showers and apply moisturizer.
“Ice packs and cool baths work to reduce inflammation and numb the pain. I also recommend lotions with both menthol and camphor. Both have been shown to cool and relieve itch while moisturizing.” —Robin Evans, MD Heartburn is uncomfortable. If you're suffering from heartburn, try:
If you cannot find relief, talk to your doctor about other treatment options, including medications that are safe during pregnancy. A pregnancy planner, organizer, or journal can be so helpful. It's a great place to write your thoughts and feelings and document your symptoms and body changes. As you think of questions for your doctor, you can write them down, so you don't forget them. Then, bring your planner along to prenatal appointments. You can record what happens at each visit and write down the answers to all your questions. After your baby arrives, it will be a wonderful keepsake to look back on all the big milestones as well as the little memories about your pregnancy. After the first prenatal visit, if your pregnant partner is experiencing a normal, healthy pregnancy, they are likely to get the official word that sex during pregnancy is OK. In fact, you can have sex throughout the entire 40 weeks—if you're both feeling up to it.
“A lot of partners worry that having sex during pregnancy will hurt the baby. It won’t. The cervix, which is the opening to the uterus, is at the end of the vagina and is at least two inches long. This acts as a barrier that keeps anything in the vagina safely away from the baby.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Sex during pregnancy won't hurt the baby. Your baby is protected by amniotic fluid, the pregnant partner's abdomen, and the mucus plug, which seals the cervix. As long as your partner does not have unexpected vaginal bleeding, a history of preterm labor or cervical insufficiency, or a concerning complication, sex during pregnancy is generally considered safe. Of course, safety isn't the only thing to consider. Your partner may be dealing with a slew of uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms. Fatigue, breast tenderness, and nausea are just a few issues that might leave your partner feeling not quite in-the-mood. Be patient and continue to show affection in other ways. Many symptoms subside in the second trimester.
"The key here is to communicate how you’re feeling to your partner. Work together to find other ways to connect and feel close, physically and emotionally.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD If your very first prenatal visit is this week, refer back to week 6 or week 8 to learn what to expect when it comes to tests, visit length, and more. It's reasonable to expect some mood swings, changing emotions, and irritability during pregnancy. However, it's important to know when your symptoms are going beyond what's expected. Sometimes it's difficult to tell on your own, so regularly talk to your partner and your doctor about how you feel. If your mood swings last more than two weeks and don’t seem to be getting better or you're experiencing significant changes in your appetite or sleep, it’s crucial to seek the care of a mental health professional. This advice holds true for everyone, but it's especially true for those who have a history of depression, anxiety, or any other mood disorder.
“But there’s absolutely no need to wait until you meet these criteria to get help. If you’re concerned or engaging in any unhealthy coping strategies, never hesitate to reach out for mental health help." —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD Around a third of the cases of postpartum depression begin during pregnancy. Getting help for prenatal depression and other mental health concerns early will not only improve your pregnancy but your baby’s well-being in utero and after birth. You should also discuss your emotions and mood changes with your OB or midwife. Certain health concerns, such as a thyroid condition, can surface in pregnancy and lead to mood or anxiety issues. Now that your very first prenatal visit is likely under your belt, your new reality might be feeling that much more real. There’s probably a combination of excitement, relief, anxiety, fear, and uncertainty swirling around your household. And it’s all normal. Pregnancy is quite the life adjustment. Next week is your baby's last week as an embryo. By the end of week 10, your little one graduates to the next stage of prenatal development. Page 19
At 10 weeks pregnant, you’re getting close to the end of your first trimester. You may be wondering when those pesky early pregnancy symptoms will start to fade or getting ready to share your big news with the world. Meanwhile, your baby is growing and hitting a big milestone at the end of this week.
10 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 2 months and 2 weeks Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 30 weeks At week 10, a baby is about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches long (3.5–4 centimeters). Verywell / Bailey MarinerThis week marks your baby's final week as an embryo. Some of the amazing events happening inside that little life this week include:
Explore a few of your baby's week 10 milestones in this interactive experience. Your early pregnancy symptoms are likely to hang around for a few more weeks. So, you may still be dealing with:
On top of that, sleep issues such as weird and vivid dreams may also make an appearance. You’re probably still in the thick of first-trimester fatigue. As your body makes more blood and increases the blood flow through your body, your blood vessels dilate or expand. The wider blood vessels can lower your blood pressure. Between low blood pressure and pregnancy hormones (especially progesterone), it's no wonder you're sleepy during the day. If you're napping or sleeping in the day, you may find that you're more awake at night. Having to get up to pee frequently also contributes to nighttime sleeping difficulties. When sleep does come, you may experience vivid and strange dreams. Pregnancy is a time filled with emotions, and dreams are linked to emotions and how the brain processes them. Plus, dreams tend to be more vivid during a stage of sleep called rapid eye movement (REM). When you wake up during or after REM sleep to, say, use the bathroom, in the middle night, you are more likely to remember the weird or scary, vivid dreams. Headaches can pop up from time to time, whether you're pregnant or not. But, pregnancy brings a few additional headache triggers such as hormone changes, lack of sleep, hunger, or the sudden end of your daily coffee habit. Occasional headaches are usually not a concern. However, if you have a headache that doesn't go away, you're getting headaches more often than normal, or your headaches are more severe than usual, you should call your doctor. Sometimes, a headache can be a sign of a problem that needs to be checked out. Eating healthy (or at least trying to through nausea), getting enough fluids, and engaging in a little physical activity each day can help combat some of the pregnancy symptoms you may be experiencing. You may also want to work on your sleep routine this week and find out ways to deal with occasional headaches without using medication. If sleep difficulties are taking their toll, take an active step in improving your sleep patterns. Start by considering your daily habits and establishing a consistent, healthy, and soothing evening routine:
You can typically treat an occasional headache on your own. In the past, you may have used medication, however, now that you're expecting, try these alternative treatments first:
It’s important to be open with your partner when it comes to your feelings about sharing your pregnancy news. Couples don’t always agree on when to tell—and who gets to know. Be sure to communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and listen to your partner's thoughts and concerns.
“Talking everything over is key. Unpack both of your reasons for wanting to—or not wanting—to share. And if you hit a crossroads, perhaps there’s a compromise. Either way, always be open to the other’s concerns and reasons.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD You, your partner, and your healthcare provider will talk about fetal genetic testing. These tests take two forms: screening tests and diagnostic tests.
"A screening test tells you the likelihood that your baby could have a birth defect; a diagnostic test tells you with more than 99% certainty whether the baby has the disorder.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB-GYN Screening tests are often offered to those under age 35, while diagnostic tests are suggested for people who are older, though that’s not a hard-and-fast rule. Two tests may be offered to you this week. The cell-free DNA testing (cfDNA) is a noninvasive prenatal test. A cfDNA test is sometimes suggested to people who meet one or more of the following criteria: For this test, your provider will order a simple blood test that can detect fetal DNA present in your system. The test screens for the most common trisomies (trisomy 13, trisomy 18, and trisomy 21), but not neural tube defects. Be aware that the results of this test also reveals the baby’s sex, so be sure to tell your practitioner if you’d rather wait to find that out.
“Right now, cfDNA is being studied for use in low-risk women, and the accuracy seems to be similar to that for high-risk women. Overall, it has the highest detection rate of all the screening tests.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN Because this is a screening test, however, all abnormal results should be confirmed with a diagnostic test. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if the test is the right choice for you. Insurance covers this test for people considered high-risk, but some plans will cover low-risk individuals as well. At the same time, between week 10 and week 12, your healthcare provider may offer you chorionic villus sampling (CVS). Unlike cfDNA, this is a diagnostic test. It may be suggested to people who meet one or more of the following criteria:
For this test, the doctor removes cells from the chorionic villi, the finger-like structures in the lining of the uterus. The cells are part of the placenta and contain the same genetic makeup as the baby. The doctors test the cells for chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, Tay-Sachs disease, and fragile X syndrome. There are two variations of the test:
While some find CVS to be painless, others experience period-like cramping during the procedure. Results are generally available as soon as a few hours or up to a couple of days. Sleep is essential throughout life. But, it is especially important during pregnancy when sleep issues are common. A body pillow or a pregnancy pillow may help you get into a more comfortable position for sleep as your body grows and changes. Pregnancy pillows are designed to support specific areas of an expecting mom's body, such as the back, belly, and knees. They come in different styles like C-shaped, U-shaped, and wedge-shaped, so you can pick the type that works best for your comfort. Pregnancy shaped pillows and straight body pillows fit into this broader category. A pregnancy body pillow tends to wrap around the entire body, while a typical body pillow is long and straight. They both provide comfort and support to help you get a better night's sleep. This week you may be nervous about prenatal testing or thinking about telling your family and friends that you're expecting. After this procedure, you may have some mild cramps and spotting. The doctor will give you instructions such as:
There is a small risk of infection, limb deformities, or miscarriage after CVS. You will be monitored for a bit after, but once you get home, you should notify the doctor if you experience:
Have you announced your pregnancy yet? The truth is, there’s no perfect time—there's only a time that feels right to you. In the past, healthcare professionals used to recommend expectant parents not spread the news until completing their first trimester, when miscarriage risk dramatically decreases. But times are changing—and so are people’s takes on this.
“Some people choose to tell a few close individuals early in their pregnancy because they want their support no matter what happens. Still, others keep their news very private because of their culture, past experience, or simply their preferences. All of the above is OK and a decision to be made between you and your partner.” —Shara Marrero Brofman, PsyD Remember, though, there are some less-than-ideal moments to share the news, and sometimes you may get a response that you don't expect. You're probably still dealing with some early pregnancy symptoms this week. But, since morning sickness typically peaks during week 9, you may start to notice it begin to fade as the days go on. Of course, while symptoms such as nausea made fade, other symptoms (such as sleep issues) may appear or get worse. At the end of this week, your little one sheds the title of embryo and graduates to the next level of development. As you start week 11, your baby is officially a fetus. Page 20
At 11 weeks pregnant, your baby has reached an exciting developmental milestone. The embryo stage is complete, and your baby is now a fetus! But, it isn't just your baby growing this week. You may notice your hair and nails getting longer, and possibly the beginnings of a baby bump.
11 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 2 months and 3 weeks Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 29 weeks At 11 weeks, baby is approximately 2 inches in length (5 centimeters). All your baby's organs form during the embryo stage. Now, in the fetal stage, your baby's organ systems will grow and mature until birth. Verywell / Bailey Mariner
Explore a few of your baby's week 11 milestones in this interactive experience. Your baby-to-be is growing rapidly, and so are some of your body parts. This week you may notice changes in your hair, nails, and belly. If this is your second (or third, or more) pregnancy or you're carrying multiples, you might notice the beginnings of a baby bump. However, if this is your first pregnancy, you likely have a little longer to wait before you'll start "showing." Your hair may grow faster and fall out less, leaving you with thicker, longer tresses. Sometimes, hair texture changes, too, causing hair to become either drier or oilier than before.
“During pregnancy, estrogen and androgen hormones change the normal pattern of hair growth by shifting more hairs into the growth phase and out of the shedding phase.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN These hormonal hair changes don't just affect the top of your head. Some pregnant individuals also experience new hair growth on their face, belly, chest, and arms. You may notice changes in your nails, too. For some, pregnancy hormones spur faster-growing, stronger nails. Meanwhile, others find that their nails split and break more easily during pregnancy. If your hair is getting long and thick, and your nails are growing strong and healthy, enjoy it. But, if you're dealing with extra, unwanted body hair or weak nails, you may be wondering if there's anything you can do. If you choose to remove new body hair growth, it’s considered safe to shave, wax, or use topical hair removers. However, permanent hair removal treatments are not recommended during pregnancy. But, don't worry about it too much. It’s a good bet that everything will return to normal within six months after you deliver your baby. If your nails are brittle, keep them trimmed and avoid chemical-laden nail polish and removers, which can further weaken nails. Like hair changes, your nails should revert back to their pre-pregnancy status by the time your baby is about six months old. It's a good time to start talking with your partner about how much time one or both of you would like to take off from work once the baby arrives. You don't have to decide anything right now, but it’s smart to allow yourselves plenty of time to discuss options such as: Prenatal genetic screening may continue this week with a nuchal translucency test. The nuchal translucency screening is an ultrasound that measures the fluid-filled space behind the baby's neck. When the measurement is greater than expected, there is a chance the baby could have a genetic disorder such as Down syndrome. However, it is just a screening test. Out of range results do not mean your child has a chromosomal issue, but they do mean that your doctor will likely recommend more testing. Plus, the timing of this test is very important. A false positive could result if the dating of the pregnancy is not correct. The best time for this ultrasound is between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days. This test is typically part of the first trimester screening, which also includes a blood test. Together, the tests provide more information. However, not all people go through both parts of the screening. You may have the blood work, the ultrasound, or both.
Your second routine monthly prenatal visit with your OB or midwife might be next week. This visit will be shorter than the first. If your healthcare provider has yet to discuss a chromosome abnormalities screening, it may happen next week. It's not uncommon to have some concerns about telling your boss that you're expecting. You may also be wondering or fielding questions from family and friends about your diet. If you work and are feeling nervous about informing your supervisor about your pregnancy, you may want to talk to a trusted colleague who has already been through the process at your workplace. It's a good opportunity to find out how your boss (or their manager), reacted to the news. You can also check out the federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act to learn about your legal rights in the workplace. For example, this act prohibits your employer from firing or demoting you because of your pregnancy. Now is also an excellent time to begin researching: If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you (or more likely others), may have concerns about your health and the health of your growing baby. Rest assured, you can certainly have a healthy pregnancy on a vegetarian or vegan diet. Plant-based diets are often very nutritious. However, when vegetarian and vegan diets are not balanced, they could cause nutrient deficiencies. So, it's important to understand the nutrients you need and how to get them. When you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you want to be sure you're getting enough protein, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, DHA, and iron. If you have questions or concerns about your diet, talk to your doctor and a nutritionist for helpful dietary information. This week, your baby took the big step from embryo to fetus. The little life is developing and looking more and more like a tiny human each day. Meanwhile, your uterus is growing along with your baby, and it won't be long before your bump is visible. Next week, you may see your doctor for your monthly prenatal visit. At that appointment, you might get to hear your baby's heartbeat for the first time. Page 21
You are three months along! At 12 weeks pregnant, you may be feeling some much-needed relief from early pregnancy symptoms. Your baby looks like a tiny formed human, and your uterus is finally growing up and out of your pelvis.
12 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 3 months Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 28 weeks At 12 weeks, a baby is typically about 2.5 inches in length (6–6.5 centimeters). Your baby finally looks just like a little human. All the physical features and body parts are in place. There's just a whole lot of growing and maturing to do from now until baby's birthday. Verywell / Bailey Mariner
Explore a few of your baby’s week 12 milestones in this interactive experience. Your pregnancy hormones are stabilizing, and your uterus is finally making its way up and out of your pelvis. Good news, the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) coursing through your body is beginning to level off. That might mean some relief from nausea and vomiting right about now. Estrogen and progesterone are also linked to nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. So, as the placenta takes over hormones production, symptoms tend to subside. Unfortunately, morning sickness does not go away for everyone. Some expecting parents continue having nausea with or without vomiting into the second trimester or even throughout the entire pregnancy. Your uterus is expanding to fill your pelvis. It now reaches your lower abdomen, where it might start to protrude ever so slightly. The top of the uterus is called the fundus. Your doctor can feel it by pressing down on your belly just above the pubic bone. As your uterus grows upward out of your pelvis, it might take some pressure off your bladder. You may find that you're not running to the restroom quite as often. However, frequent urination is only taking a break. It will return as your pregnancy progresses. Up to 75% of pregnant individuals notice skin pigmentation changes in pregnancy. Melasma (also called chloasma gravidarum and pregnancy mask) may appear as irregular brown areas on your forehead, upper lip, and cheeks. These dark patches typically last until the pregnancy ends. Make no mistake, feeling comfortable and confident during pregnancy is good for you and part of self-care. Whether you buy new or used clothes or borrow some from a friend, revamping your wardrobe is necessary. If you haven't already, you can start by adding a few stretchy waist bottoms or pregnancy pants. They will be much more comfortable as your belly begins to expand. If you're trying to hold off on the pregnancy clothes, consider a waistband extender or pregnancy belly band to wear over unbuttoned jeans and skirts. These items can keep you in your pre-pregnancy clothes a bit longer. As first-trimester nausea begins to fade, you might start to feel a little hungrier. Have some nutritious snacks on hand that are ready to go and easy to grab when you need a quick bite. Raw veggies, fresh fruit, nuts and seeds, hummus and chips, yogurt, and cheese are just a few good choices to help satisfy a craving while getting in some extra nutrients. It wasn't too long ago when parents didn't know their baby's sex until the big reveal at birth. But, with today's technology, expectant parents are learning the news much sooner. Between peaking inside the uterus with ultrasound and early prenatal genetic testing, it won't be long before you and your partner have the option to find out your baby's sex. Some parents want to know, and some parents don't. It's a good idea to discuss it with your partner to see if you're on the same page. You might be surprised to find that you and your partner have different thoughts on the subject. If you do disagree, it’s up to the pair of you to learn—and understand—why you have opposite takes. For instance, some may want to learn the baby’s sex before birth to help prepare a nursery, choose a name, or even make space to deal with feelings of disappointment. On the other hand, others may not want to find out the sex so they can sidestep stereotypical gifts and gendered preconceptions, or simply enjoy one of life’s biggest surprises. Your second prenatal visit may be this week. This appointment will be shorter than your first, but you will have some déjà vu with the tests and questions asked. As your waistline begins to expand, it's time to seek comfort. You may not be ready for pregnancy clothes just yet, but you will be soon. If you can borrow some pregnancy wear from a friend or family member, that's a big help. But, if you'll be purchasing a new wardrobe, it's a little easier on the budget if you get a few pieces at a time. Now is a good time to invest in comfortable bottoms. Week 12 may bring a little relief from early pregnancy symptoms. As your reward for weathering that hormone rollercoaster you’ve been riding, you may start to see the beginnings of a baby bump and get to hear your baby's heartbeat. Next week is the last week of your first trimester. Page 22
You're in the last week of your first trimester. At 13 weeks pregnant, your baby can swallow and make urine. Meanwhile, you may begin to notice some unwelcome skin changes.
13 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 3 months and 1 week Which Trimester? First trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 27 weeks At 13 weeks, a baby is approximately 3 inches in length (7.5 centimeters). Verywell / Bailey MarinerHair follicles have already started developing, and soft, fine hair called lanugo is beginning to appear. By 20 weeks, lanugo will cover your baby's body. The hair holds a substance called vernix on baby’s skin to coat and protect it from the amniotic fluid. Your baby can swallow and is swallowing up the surrounding amniotic fluid. Baby's bladder can be seen with an ultrasound, and the kidneys are producing urine that becomes part of the amniotic fluid. Ten tiny fingertips are developing ridges that will hold baby’s everlasting and unique fingerprints. The fingerprints will be fully formed in a few more weeks. The placenta provides your baby with oxygen and nutrients. It also filters out waste. While it is now fully functioning, it continues to grow and change throughout pregnancy.
Explore a few of your baby's week 13 milestones in this interactive experience. As you near the end of the first trimester, nausea may begin to fade. However, you may still be dealing with constipation or heartburn. New symptoms may also arise as your pregnancy progresses. White or clear vaginal discharge is normal, even when you aren't pregnant. But, during pregnancy, the amount of discharge or leukorrhea increases. You may notice more of a thin, whitish fluid than you did before. It's common and not a cause for concern. Fifty to ninety percent of expectant parents develop stretch marks. These purple or red lines appear on the belly, breasts, or thighs. When they fade, they leave pale lines on the skin. Stretch marks tend to show up when the skin grows and stretches very quickly. Genetics and hormones also play a part. Pregnancy is a time of rapid growth, weight gain, and hormone changes, so it's a common time to experience stretch marks. As the weeks go on, you may be able to eat a little bit more. You may also want to try to keep those "stripes" to a minimum and pay attention to any vaginal discharge you may be experiencing. Since your nausea is very likely waning, now is a great time to start expanding your healthy eating choices.
“This month is a great time to boost your intake of calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium, as each helps with baby’s rapidly developing bones and teeth.” —Dana Angelo White, MS, RD Some healthy choices include:
You cannot prevent stretch marks. But, you can try to keep them to a minimum by:
“There’s really no way to prevent stretch marks. Often, these marks will fade over time." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN You can moisturize your skin, but creams and lotions cannot prevent stretch marks. Stretch marks develop in the second layer of skin called the dermis. The lotions and creams absorb into the top layer of the skin (the epidermis). You should also beware that some products may contain ingredients that aren't safe during pregnancy. So, use caution. If you want to do something about your stretch marks after your pregnancy, you can consult with a dermatologist about treatments or procedures to fade or remove them. An increase in thin, clear, or white vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy. You can deal with it by wearing a pantyliner and keeping the area clean and dry. However, changes in discharge can sometimes be a sign of an infection. So, notify your doctor if the discharge:
Feeling sick alongside your partner and not sure why? Don't worry—you're not the only one. Some partners experience sympathetic pregnancy symptoms, also known as couvade syndrome, at the end of the first trimester. That’s right—you may be gaining weight or feeling queasy right along with your pregnant partner. According to a 2013 study published in the journal Medical Science Monitor, the frequency of couvade symptoms is associated with empathy. So, if you’re not feeling the best, you're not copy-catting for attention. You’re simply more emotionally sensitive and understanding of your partner's feelings. If you did not see your healthcare provider for your second prenatal visit last week, you’ll likely be on your way this week. The doctor will check your:
The doctor or midwife may also use a Doppler—a handheld instrument that’s placed on your abdomen, over your uterus—to check your baby’s heart rate. With this, you’ll get to hear the precious thump-thump of your baby’s heartbeat.
If you want to try to keep stretch marks away or moisturize any lines that may be appearing, be sure to use a product with safe ingredients. While evidence that creams and lotions are effective to prevent stretch marks is lacking, they may be worth a try. At the very least, they can keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. It may even make your skin feel softer and smoother. Just remember to choose a natural product and talk to your doctor or a dermatologist about ingredients you aren't sure about. This week, your doctor may perform a procedure to protect pregnancy for parents who have lost a child in the second trimester, have a history of painless cervical dilation in the second trimester, or have had a previous cerclage. It's also a good time to consider whether or not you're happy with your healthcare provider. If you have a history of cervical insufficiency, sometimes called an incompetent or weak cervix, your healthcare provider may talk to you about getting a cervical cerclage. It is typically placed between week 13 and week 14 of pregnancy. During this procedure, you receive either general, spinal, or epidural anesthesia, while a surgeon stitches around the cervix to help prevent it from shortening and opening too early, causing preterm birth. The stitches can be removed in your healthcare provider’s office at 37 weeks. You’ve already had your first prenatal visit with your healthcare provider. Did you feel supported and listened to? Is your doctor or midwife responsive and respectful when you have questions or concerns? Know that if you don’t think your healthcare provider is the right fit, you have every right—even an obligation—to switch. If you do decide to change providers, know that the process isn’t complicated. All you need to do is sign a release to transfer your medical records. If you don’t want to confront your healthcare provider face-to-face, simply have your new provider process the release. It is the end of the first trimester. In 13 short weeks, your baby has grown from a tiny combination of an egg and a sperm into a fully formed little human. Of course, there's still a bit of growing and maturing to do before that little life can survive on their own outside your womb. Next week brings a big pregnancy milestone. It may mean some relief of your early pregnancy symptoms and a boost of energy. Page 23
You have reached your second trimester! You're now one-third of the way through your pregnancy. At 14 weeks pregnant, you might be feeling better as early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue begin to fade. Many expectant parents consider this in-the-middle trimester to be the easiest and most comfortable.
14 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 3 months and 2 weeks Which Trimester? Second trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 26 weeks At 14 weeks, a baby is typically 3 1/2 inches long (9 centimeters). They weigh a little over 3 ounces (90 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerIf you could peek inside your womb, you’d see a tiny baby practicing how to frown, squint, make a pucker. You’d also witness a lot of movement. Your baby might be wiggling around, stretching their arms, or even practicing breathing by taking amniotic fluid in and out of their lungs. A lot is going on when it comes to your baby's organs, too.
Explore a few of your baby's week 14 milestones in this interactive experience. You might already feel less nauseous and exhausted, but if haven't started feeling better yet, hang in there. Those not-so-pleasant early pregnancy symptoms don't abruptly end on a specific date—and they technically don't all disappear when you hit week 14. However, the symptoms of early pregnancy do often begin to fade when the first trimester is over—it might just be more of a gradual shift to feeling better. Either way, you are entering the least symptomatic phase of your pregnancy. As nausea and vomiting subside, fatigue tends to fade along with it. The exact cause of fatigue during pregnancy is unknown, but rising hormones in the first trimester are likely contributing factors. As your hormones level off at the end of the first trimester, you might begin to feel less tired—and perhaps even more energetic. However, this upswing isn't true for everyone. Fatigue might continue or even get worse as your pregnancy progresses. Breast tenderness also tends to ease after the first trimester. However, some people who are pregnant continue to feel discomfort as the breast tissue grows and matures to make breast milk. Early pregnancy symptoms can interfere with sexual desire in the first trimester. However, when nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and breast tenderness diminish—along with the fears of harming an early pregnancy—sexual desire might return. If there is a concern about having sex, your health care provider will let you know. In general, having intercourse during pregnancy is safe as long are there are no complications such as placenta previa or vaginal bleeding. After sexual activity, some light cramping is normal. Mild contractions of your uterus are part of orgasm. They are irregular and fade quickly. Skin changes occur throughout pregnancy. One issue that might pop up is the formation of a new mole or changes to an existing mole. Pregnancy can do funny things to moles like make them bigger or darker. While pregnancy is the likely cause of these changes, it's always smart to have any new or changing moles looked at by your health care provider. The second trimester typically brings physical and emotional relief. As you notice a decrease in early pregnancy symptoms and maybe even more energy, you might also feel a little less worried about something going wrong. Plus, your pregnancy belly is still at a point where you can move comfortably. This trimester is often the easiest to enjoy. If you've been concerned about early pregnancy loss (especially if you've experienced it before) this week brings a little sigh of relief. By week 14, the risk of miscarriage drops significantly. While some parents-to-be might not truly feel relief until after the delivery when they're holding a healthy baby in their arms, this is a critical step to getting to that point. If you find that you are worried all the time, share your concerns with your health care provider. It might be helpful to get a referral to a mental health professional to help you through this time. Even though your baby is growing steadily, they still are not big enough to weigh you down. The second trimester is a good time for exercise and staying active. Unless your provider tells you otherwise, physical activity is safe and healthy during pregnancy. Experts recommend that pregnant people get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week. Exercise reduces the risk of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and cesarean section. It also helps the body recover faster after birth. The second trimester is a great time to make special plans for you and your partner. Once the baby comes, it might not be as easy for the two of you to get away on your own. Having a "babymoon" is a great way to spend time together, connect (or reconnect), and relax before your life changes with a newborn. It could be a staycation at home, a weekend not far away, or a big trip. You'll want to check with your health care provider, but as long as you aren't experiencing any complications, travel is typically safe. The sweet spot for traveling during pregnancy is between 14 and 28 weeks. Since the first trimester's morning sickness is probably over, and walking and moving around is still comfortable, travel is likely to be more enjoyable during this time. First-time parents might benefit from taking a birthing class. They are often available at the hospital, a birthing center, a private facility, or online. There are many options to choose from, though you might find your fellow parents-to-be are vying for spots. It's a good idea to register for a class when you're about 20 weeks along, meaning now is the perfect time to start some initial research. With you taking the lead, your partner gets to cross this item off their to-do list.
You may have your next regular monthly prenatal visit around week 16. If you choose to have an amniocentesis, it typically takes place between week 15 and week 20. Your provider might recommend an amniocentesis if you:
Though your provider might recommend it, amniocentesis is not mandatory. It carries a very small risk (about 1 in every 200 to 400 might experience complications, including miscarriage). Make sure that you take the time you need to make the best decision for you and your family. As you begin looking into childbirth classes, you might also want to check out some online options. Online classes tend to be flexible and let you study at your own pace. If that's something you and your partner might be interested in, you'll find plenty of options in your research. If you're planning an adventure, be safe, and take the proper precautions. Travel is generally safe during most of your pregnancy. However, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue can put a damper on first-trimester trips. Comfort can become more of an issue as you get into your third trimester. The second trimester is the ideal time for a getaway. Of course, there are some precautions you should take regardless of when you travel. There are some pregnancy travel tips that you can keep in mind, many of which you can implement while you're still planning a trip. Here are some to-do's to keep in mind as you're planning, and going on, your pre-baby adventure:
Security body scanners at the airport are not dangerous to your baby. Even so, if being scanned makes you uncomfortable, you can request to be manually checked by a security agent.
"The amount of radiation exposure during one scan is equivalent to 0.01 chest X-rays." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN For a lot of expectant parents, week 14 is the beginning of the most enjoyable few months of pregnancy. Your baby is growing, the risk of miscarriage has dropped, and you're on your way to feeling better than you've probably felt in a while. Next week is likely more of the same as you continue to feel better and have more energy. You are also getting closer to seeing that baby bump. Everyone is different, but bellies tend to "pop" early in the second trimester. Page 24
It's the second week of your second trimester. At 15 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing and maturing, and you likely have more energy and a lot less nausea.
15 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 3 months and 3 weeks Which Trimester? Second trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 25 weeks At 15 weeks, your baby measures a little under 4 1/2 inches (11.2 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of the buttocks (your healthcare provider might call this measurement the crown-rump length). The average height for a baby at 15 weeks from the top of their head to their heels (known as crown-heel length) is a little under 6 1/2 inches (16.5 centimeters). This week, your baby weighs almost about 4 ounces (114 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerBy 15 weeks, your baby can make whole-body movements, move their arms and legs, stretch, and make breathing motions. The outer part of your baby’s ears is growing and steadily becoming more recognizable. Meanwhile, the inner ear continues to develop. While the baby can't quite hear just yet, it will happen soon. Your baby’s skin is still very thin and translucent, allowing a clear view of the blood vessels and skeleton. Bones continue to ossify or harden. Some bones in the skull, spine, and shoulders, along with the collar bone and long bones, have already begun the process. The bones of the hands and feet are also hardening during this week.
Explore a few of your baby's week 15 milestones in this interactive experience. As some of the first-trimester symptoms subside, others might begin or continue into the second trimester. Symptoms you might experience during week 15 include:
You might start to feel notable weight changes this week. While every person is different, pregnant people typically put on about 1 to 5 pounds during the first trimester and about 1 pound each week after that. If your weight has changed significantly more or significantly less, it’s worth talking to your healthcare provider about it. Hormones affect dental health, and pregnancy can cause gingivitis or sore, red, swollen gums. When your gums are sensitive, they are more likely to bleed—especially when you brush your teeth. Gingivitis tends to progress through pregnancy, starting in the first trimester and getting worse in the second and third. It typically gets better after the baby is born. Between hormones and more blood circulating in your body, there is more blood flowing through your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your nose. Occasionally, those blood vessels break and bleed. It can catch you off-guard, but nosebleeds are a common pregnancy complaint that about one in five pregnant people experience. The problem is generally mild and manageable, and it typically goes away after the baby is born. Take some time this week to learn about healthy weight gain and dental health during pregnancy. It's also a good time to learn (or review) what to do if you get a nosebleed. To increase your odds of a safe, healthy pregnancy and delivery, try to stay within the recommended guidelines for weight gain in pregnancy. The amount of weight you should gain will depend on how much you weighed when you became pregnant. Your provider will help you determine the healthiest weight gain plan for your pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends specific weight gain targets for people who are pregnant. At your prenatal visits, you can discuss how the current recommendations apply to you.
“Ultimately, if you follow a healthy diet, your body will gain exactly what it needs. The week-to-week numbers are not as important as the overall total and the growth of the baby.” —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN It's important to gain enough weight during pregnancy to prevent preterm birth and low birth weight. It's equally as important to not put on too much extra weight. Gaining too much weight can put you at risk for having a large baby, and you might have more difficulty losing the weight you gained after your baby is born. Excessive pregnancy weight gain is also associated with pregnancy complications, including high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. It's much easier to keep an eye on your weight if you start early. Here are some things to keep in mind about pregnancy weight gain:
Dental health is important throughout your life, but it's especially important during pregnancy. Changes in your mouth and gums can lead to pregnancy gingivitis. It can then progress to a more dangerous condition called periodontitis, which is linked to premature birth and low birth weight. To keep up with your oral health in pregnancy:
Nosebleeds can be scary or annoying, but they are rarely dangerous. You can treat an occasional nosebleed at home:
Occasional nosebleeds that go away when you treat them are typically not a concern. However, if you have a severe nosebleed that will not go away, the bleeding is heavy, or you are getting nosebleeds often, call your provider. High blood pressure or another underlying condition could be to blame. Your support might mean more than you realize. A 2016 study of 2,641 pregnant women found that those who received little support from their partners were up to 80% more likely to have high pregnancy-related anxiety in early pregnancy when compared to women who had strong support. They were also three times more likely to be depressed mid-pregnancy. On the other hand, the study found that when partners show involvement in the pregnancy through listening to the baby's heartbeat, and attending appointments and classes, it can positively affect the expecting partner's well-being, mental health, and health behaviors. Since people who are expecting who have partner encouragement and involvement are more likely to get prenatal care and less likely to smoke, a supportive partner can impact the outcome of the pregnancy and even the baby's birth weight. Support for your partner can exist in many forms, including financial assistance, giving affection, and providing reassurance that you will be helpful when your baby arrives. Take cues from your partner as to the best ways to show your support. You can also ask. And remember, doing the best you can is all you can ask of yourself. If you, your partner, and your health care provider decided on prenatal genetic testing, the second-trimester screening and diagnostic testing can begin as early as week 15. Your provider might offer you a second genetic screening test between week 15 and week 22. It is a blood test that measures four different substances, and it's called the maternal serum screening, quadruple screen, "quad" screen, or multiple marker test. This test provides information on the baby's risk for specific chromosomal abnormalities as well as neural tube defects. This test is also part of the integrated screening or combination of first- and second-trimester blood screening. If you had the first-trimester screen, the doctors compare both sets of testing to provide you with a more accurate assessment of your baby's risk. Remember, screening tests do not diagnose your child with a condition. They tell you and the doctor what the chances are that the child may have an issue. If the results show there's a risk, your doctor will recommend more testing. An amniocentesis typically takes place between week 15 and week 20. So, if you've decided to have this genetic test, you may have your appointment scheduled this week. During the procedure, your provider will use an ultrasound to guide a thin, hollow needle through your abdomen and uterus and into the amniotic sac. Then, they will remove a small sample of amniotic fluid that contains fetal cells. The sample will be sent a lab for testing. The procedure is relatively quick and takes about 10 minutes. You will stay for about an hour afterward for monitoring. Then, you can go home to rest. You will be given instructions for your recovery following the procedure. It can take a few days to a few weeks to receive results, and waiting can be stressful.
Your next routine prenatal appointment might be next week at 16 weeks. An anatomy scan or Level II (Level 2) ultrasound is usually scheduled between 18 weeks and 22 weeks. Your age, a health condition, or a pregnancy complication, might mean that your pregnancy is considered to be high-risk. A high-risk pregnancy is one with a greater chance of complications. However, with careful monitoring and regular prenatal care, a high-risk pregnancy can lead to a safe delivery and a healthy baby. If you’ve recently learned that your pregnancy is high-risk, your healthcare provider might refer you to a perinatologist or maternal-fetal medicine specialist. These professionals are obstetricians who specialize in the care of the fetus and complicated pregnancies. Often, a perinatologist won’t act as your primary healthcare provider but will work in conjunction with your OB/GYN or midwife. You may also have to see other specialists such as a cardiologist for blood pressure monitoring or an endocrinologist to keep diabetes under control. To help you get through your high-risk pregnancy, be sure to go to all your appointments, follow the instructions of all your providers, learn what to watch for, and seek emotional and mental health support if you need it. By 15 weeks, you might be feeling pretty good. You might have more energy and an increased appetite. Remember, even though you're "eating for two" nutritionally speaking and maybe want to make up for the meals lost to vomiting in the first trimester, you don't want to overdo it. Be sure to get in some nutritious foods and regular exercise to help prevent gaining too much too quickly. If this isn't your first pregnancy, you might start to feel fluttering next week. Plus, if you haven't begun to show yet, it shouldn't be long before that bump makes its debut. Most expecting parents start to show by 16 weeks. Page 25
You are 4 months along! At 16 weeks pregnant, your bump is likely starting to show, so it may be noticeable that you're expecting. You could also begin to feel the first flutters of baby movement this week.
16 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 4 months Which Trimester? Second trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 24 weeks At 16 weeks, baby measures just under 5 inches (12.4 centimeters) from the top of their head to the bottom of the buttocks (known as the crown-rump length). On average, baby's height at 16 weeks measuring from the top of their head to their heels (known as crown-heel length) is approximately 7 inches (18 centimeters). Your little one likely weighs about 5 ounces (144 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerYour baby-to-be's heart is beating around 150 to 180 times per minute, and it's pumping approximately 25 quarts (24 liters) of blood a day. Baby's taste buds and taste pores are developed and working by this week. So, your baby can taste the amniotic fluid as it enters the mouth. Since amniotic fluid takes on flavors of your diet, your baby can now start developing taste preferences while in the womb.
Explore a few of your baby's week 16 milestones in this interactive experience. While your baby continues to grow and develop in week 16, you may continue to see an increase in energy and feel pretty good overall. However, some second-trimester symptoms may continue or pop up. You may have occasional:
Along with that, this week may bring a growing belly, the first signs of movement, and food cravings. Soon you will feel the little fluttering of butterflies in your stomach, or more accurately, the baby in your uterus. If this isn't your first pregnancy, you may feel baby flutters, called quickening, as early as 16 weeks. But, if you’re a first-timer, it's a bit more difficult to recognize, so you may not begin to feel those first movements until week 18 to week 20. Whether you feel your first flutters now or later, your baby-to-be is moving quite a lot. Babies are very active in the womb, especially between 14 weeks and 19 weeks, when there's still enough room to move around. Some expecting parents can't wait to show off a bump while others try to hide their growing belly for as long as they can. If you're trying to hide it, it's about to get a little harder since, by week 16, many expecting parents are showing. Of course, it's possible that for those excited for the bump, it isn't as pronounced as you had hoped. That's because everyone is different, and each person's body carries the baby differently. Hang in there. You have 24 weeks of growing still to come. With nausea in the first trimester, you may have experienced some food aversions. But, now that your stomach can tolerate the sight and smell of food again, you may find you have some food cravings. Food cravings are common. Between 50% and 90% of pregnant people report them. While it’s unclear why pregnancy brings cravings, it could be hormones along with the body's way of seeking certain nutrients that you need for your developing baby. A growing bump may make it more difficult to find a comfortable position to sleep in, but it means your baby is getting big enough for you to possibly start to feel their movements. Dealing with cravings may also be on your mind. Getting in a comfortable position at bedtime can prove difficult in pregnancy, and that’s even before your belly "pops." To help you get comfortable:
“Right now, there is no unsafe position to sleep in. Just do what’s comfortable." —Allison Hill, MD, OB/GYN While you can crave less nutritious, empty-calorie foods just as much as nutrient-dense options, your cravings may be trying to tell you something. It could be your body's way of getting you to give it a nutrient it wants. You can definitely indulge in some less healthy treats now and then, the key is moderation, so do your best to make nutritious foods the bulk of your diet. Aim for balanced meals and snacks. Fruit, nuts, cheese, and cut-up veggies are easy and nutritious snacks. Those first baby movements can feel like little flutters, twinges, or gas bubbles. Experienced parents may recognize them sooner since they know what they're feeling for. People with a lower body mass index may also feel movement a little earlier. However, there is no need to worry if you cannot feel your baby move at this point. It can take a little longer to feel movements for all expecting parents, especially for first-time pregnancies or those with an anterior placenta. Some pregnant people don't feel the baby move until 20 weeks or even later. As the weeks go on and the baby gets bigger, the movements will be more recognizable. It won't be long before you and loved ones can feel and even see the strong little kicks through your skin. Have you thought about baby names yet? Have some fun and drum up a list of your top picks to compare with your partner’s. You can find inspiration and ideas for traditional or unique names by going through your family tree, history books, baby name books, or online sources: Whether you have already picked the name or you're still working on it, you will also have to decide if you want to share the name or your possible choices with others. As you start spreading the "we’re pregnant" news, virtually everyone will ask you what you’re going to name the baby. If you choose to answer, you’re bound to hear some opinions—and, you might be surprised if not all of them are supportive. Because of this, it’s a smart idea for you and your partner to decide on your name-sharing strategy. You may want to keep the name between the two of you and let it be a surprise when the baby is born. But, if you do want to share, keep in mind that family and friends may not be shy when letting you know how they feel about your choice. Be ready to gently shut down those with negative opinions, however well-intentioned they may be. If your last prenatal visit was at week 12, you should be back at your healthcare provider’s office this week for your next appointment. During your routine monthly prenatal check, your doctor will: Along with the above, your provider may take a new measurement this week: It's called the fundus or fundal height, and it's the distance between the top of your pubic bone and the top of your uterus. This measurement helps your OB or midwife monitor fetal growth. At 16 weeks, the top of your uterus will be about halfway between your pubic bone and belly button when you're lying down. If you've opted for genetic screening, you may have blood drawn at this office visit. This blood test is offered between week 15 and week 22 to determine for your baby's risk of chromosomal abnormalities and neural tube defects. Amniocentesis is performed between week 15 and week 20. If you have this test, it may be scheduled this week.
Your next visit may be for an ultrasound. Doctors typically schedule the structural ultrasound, also called the anatomy screen or level 2 ultrasound, between week 18 and week 22. This ultrasound checks how your baby is developing, the location of the placenta, the baby’s position, and the status of the major parts of the brain, heart, kidneys, bladder, and stomach. You might be looking for that perfect name or that ideal sleep position this week. Here a few suggestions to help you with your search. Some expecting parents have names chosen for their children long before they're even expecting. Some couples pick a name early in the pregnancy, while others wait until the baby is born to choose a name. If you and your partner are taking your time to make this decision, you haven't found the perfect name just yet, or you want to do a little more research before narrowing it down, you may want to look through some books together. As your belly begins to expand, it can be challenging to find a comfortable sleep position. A pregnancy pillow provides support to your body and can help you sleep more comfortably on your side. Indulging in the occasional unhealthy craving isn't usually harmful. However, some cravings are dangerous. It's important to avoid substances such as alcohol, cigarettes, and recreational drugs. But, there are other concerning urges, as well. Pregnancy can bring some strange cravings—even odder than pickles over ice cream. Sometimes pregnancy can lead to craving non-food items such as ice, sand, chalk, dirt, soap, laundry detergent, and powder. The urge to eat non-food items is called pica. Pica is associated with nutritional deficiencies, especially anemia. However, that is not always the case. While feeding your food cravings in pregnancy is generally not a problem, pica can be. Eating substances that aren't food can be harmful to you and your baby. So, resist the urge and talk to your doctor about your cravings. Your baby is doing so many amazing things at 16 weeks. The senses are developing as the baby begins to taste, hear, and even touch. Meanwhile, you're showing and possibly starting to wonder if those little gas bubbles might actually be the baby moving. If you can't feel the baby moving just yet, there's no need to worry. It will happen soon, maybe even next week. Page 26
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is putting on some fat and gaining muscle. Meanwhile, you may notice some new aches and pains or a stuffy nose.
17 Weeks Pregnant Is How Many Months? 4 months and 1 week Which Trimester? Second trimester How Many Weeks to Go? 23 weeks At 17 weeks, baby measures just over 5 1/4 inches (13.5 centimeters) when measured from the top of their head to the bottom of their buttocks (crown-rump length). The average height for a baby at 17 weeks from the top of their head to their heels (known as crown-heel length) is just under 7 3/4 inches (19.6 centimeters). This week, baby weighs a little over 6 ounces (179 grams). Verywell / Bailey MarinerYour baby is making adipose or fat tissue. Fat cells first appear in the face, neck, breast, and stomach wall. Then, fat is added to the back, shoulders, arms, legs, and chest. Fat tissue has many important functions, such as storing energy, insulating the body, protecting the organs, and filling out the baby’s features. Your baby is getting bigger and stronger as muscles and bones continue to develop and mature. The baby can make sucking movements with the mouth and drink the amniotic fluid. As the weeks go on, the baby will get better at sucking. However, sucking and swallowing are not coordinated until around 32 to 34 weeks, and the sucking reflex doesn't fully mature until closer to 36 weeks. The umbilical cord and placenta are steadily growing. The umbilical cord is getting thicker and longer to nourish your baby, while the placenta is expanding and increasing circulation to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the baby.
Explore a few of your baby's week 17 milestones in this interactive experience. As your second trimester continues, you may be one of the lucky ones with more energy and no symptoms. Or you may experience some common discomforts such as heartburn, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or headaches. A few other symptoms that may develop this week include minor aches and pains and a stuffy nose. With a growing uterus, stretching muscles, and changing hormones that affect your joints and ligaments, it's no wonder that backaches and pelvic aches are some of the most common pregnancy complaints. Studies show that about two out of three pregnant people have low back pain, and one out of five have pelvic pain. Another unpleasant side effect of pregnancy that typically arrives in the second trimester is pregnancy rhinitis or pregnancy-related nasal congestion. It affects about 39% of pregnant people, with most cases striking between week 13 and week 21. The cause is unknown, but an increase of blood volume and hormones may cause mucous glands to ramp up production, leading to a stuffy nose and sneezing fits. Continue to eat nutritious foods, drink plenty of fluids, and try to get enough rest. Along with the basics, you can also try to ease some of the second-trimester pregnancy symptoms and find a safe physical activity that you enjoy. If pregnancy rhinitis has you sniffling, sneezing, and feeling congested, the first line of treatment is to try:
If these methods aren't working, be sure to talk to your health care provider. Nasal congestion can be a sign of other conditions, such as allergies, a cold, or a sinus infection. Your doctor can determine if you need a medication or an antibiotic to relieve your symptoms and prescribe something safe. Remember, not all over-the-counter medicine is safe to take during pregnancy, so ask your doctor before using any cold or allergy formulas. Back and pelvic pain tend to get worse as pregnancy progresses. To help relieve discomfort and try to prevent it from getting worse, you can:
Exercise may help prevent and relieve mild back and pelvic pain, but there are many other reasons to engage in physical activity during pregnancy. Exercise can help you stay within the recommended weight guidelines, decrease your risk of gestational diabetes, lower your risk of cesarean birth, and help your body recover faster after your baby is born. Before starting a new exercise program, talk to your doctor to be sure it is safe for you and your individual circumstances. Prenatal exercises that are generally safe during a healthy, low-risk pregnancy include:
While you're working out, take care to stay hydrated and avoid overheating or overdoing it. It is not recommended to engage in exercises that could cause harm to you and your unborn child. Activities with a high risk of falling or injury that are not recommended during pregnancy include:
Your sex life may not be as active as it was before pregnancy. Pregnancy symptoms can definitely ruin the mood, and some people are just not feeling up to sexual activity. The lower interest in sex may continue throughout the pregnancy. However, during the second trimester, your partner may be feeling better. Besides less nausea and more energy, your partner may experience an increase in vaginal lubrication and blood flow to the genital area that can make the clitoris and vagina more sensitive. These changes can lead to heightened sexual arousal and desire. Of course, pregnancy doesn't only affect your partner's interest in sex. Your desire may change, as well. You may enjoy the changes happening to your partner’s body and feel a stronger sense of connection, or you might feel anxiety about harming the baby during intercourse and stress about your upcoming role as a parent. You may also be struggling to adjust to your partner’s evolving identity from sexual partner to expectant parent (though these identities are not mutually exclusive!). All these feelings are normal. But, it's important to communicate openly as both of you experience sexual changes. Talk about it, reserving judgment, and remember that the both of you are adjusting. If you're dealing with a stuffy nose or occasional nosebleeds, consider a humidifier. Humidifiers add moisture to the air. They can help relieve dryness in the nasal passages as well as ease the symptoms of nasal congestion, allergies, or a cold. After the baby is born and your nose is back to normal, you can move the humidifier to the nursery. The result of your genetic screening or diagnostic tests may be ready. Waiting for results is hard, but hearing the results can be even more difficult. Genetic screening tests are screening tests, which tell you, your partner, and the doctor your baby's risk of having a specific disorder. These tests cannot tell if the baby actually has the condition. Therefore, if the result of the screening comes back to say that the baby has a higher than average chance of an issue, your doctor will likely encourage you to have more tests. Diagnostic tests such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis are diagnostic tests, which tell you, your partner, and your doctor if the baby has a disorder. The results of these tests are more certain. About 3% of babies are born with congenital abnormalities. It can be devastating to hear that your child has a health concern. Some conditions may only lead to minor issues, but other disorders can have serious effects on your child and your family. Learning the results ahead of time allows you and your partner to discuss your options and make difficult decisions. It also gives you an opportunity to get a head start on educating yourself, preparing for your baby's needs, and planning the best possible life and outcome for your child and your family. Your baby is getting longer and stronger with growing muscles and the addition of some fat. The baby's even big and strong enough for you to possibly feel their movements. But, if you haven't felt the baby move yet, don't worry. You have a good chance of feeling your first fetal movements next week. Many parents, even first-time parents, begin to feel the baby between week 18 and week 20. Next week may also bring the opportunity to peek inside your baby's world since the big mid-pregnancy ultrasound is coming up soon. |
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