The average length of full term pregnancy in women is counted as 40 weeks (280 days).

But the period an unborn baby spends in its mothers womb is 38 weeks. This difference is because conception generally occurs after two weeks from the first day of the womans last menstrual period (LMP). That is, when you are actually thinking of that lovely baby growing inside you for the first time, you are already two weeks pregnant. Pregnancy or the gestation period in women is divided into three trimesters: First trimester From conception week 12 Second Trimester Week 12 to week 24 Third trimester Week 24 to week 40 Forward, find out what is happening with you and the baby in these stages, week by week.

Symptoms in 1 Week Pregnant Women

A full term pregnancy that lasts for 40 weeks is divided into 13-week trimesters that typically start from day one of your last menstrual period. That is, when the physician says that you are 10 weeks pregnant, then the period of conception is approximately 8 weeks ago. Most 1 week pregnant women are unaware of the fact that the first week is mostly confined to ovulation and fertilization. You dont notice much of the changes as there is no releasing of the egg in week one. In the first week, the menstrual cycle stops and the uterine lining starts building and thickening to receive the egg that is ready for fertilization. And the actual development of the fetus starts from week 3 onwards. The first day of your pregnancy is the first day of your last menstrual cycle. As ovulation generally occurs two weeks after that, most women conceive during this time. Just keep in mind that when you are actually thinking of that lovely baby growing inside your mind for the first time, you are already two weeks pregnant. Many women experience very few or no symptoms at all during the first week of pregnancy as most of this time is consumed by ovulation and fertilization. But mild cramping and increased amounts of clear discharge are considered the most common symptoms experienced by 1 week pregnant women. Increased fatigue, tenderness in the breasts and some sort of metallic taste in the mouth are also the signs of carrying. The due date for the babys arrival can be estimated based on the womans LMP during her first prenatal visit to the healthcare provider. However, charting could be a little difficult as not all women have the same cycles. But an ultra sound can give you the exact arrival day as well as an exact picture of the little one. Start living healthy, adopt healthy lifestyle habits and start taking prenatal vitamins and other essential vitamin supplements to give a good start to thenew life.

Week 2 of Your Pregnancy and the Changes in You

A womans uterine lining starts to thicken when she is 2 weeks pregnant . It is also the time when the uterus begins preparing a tissue to house the embryo. Measuring how long you have been pregnant depends on how you keep track of the menstruation cycle. The usual count of the pregnancy from the first day of your last menstrual cycle makes you about 4-5 weeks pregnant by the time your next period is missed. But as your pregnancy begins when your egg was fertilized about 14-18 days ago, you are actually 2 weeks pregnant. This is because ovulation occurs around 14-18 of a womans cycle. The first day of the menstrual period is the first cycle day. The cycle may last about 5-7 days. Then, after a week, the ovaries prepare to release the egg. But the ovulation occurs between day 14 and day 18 of that cycle if the sperm is waiting for the egg at the top of the fallopian tube. As the sperm can survive up to 5 days, the fertilization could start as soon as the egg is released. Womens cycle varies greatly from the average. To know the approximate length of your cycle is necessary to know the time frame of your pregnancy. For example, a woman of a normal cycle of 4 weeks is actually 2 weeks pregnant when the doctor informs her that she is 4 weeks pregnant. But with a woman whose cycle is typically 5 weeks, then you would say that she is 4 weeks pregnant.

Counting the pregnancy weeks also depends on how long you waited after the missing period. However, what is most important is to enjoy your pregnancy and have a good diet that will help the development of the baby.

Week 3 of Pregnancy The Beginning of Fertilization

When you are 3 weeks pregnant , the sperm comes into contact with the egg inside the fallopian tube and the fertilization occurs. But you are not even aware that you have conceived as you didnt miss a period. Week 3 is the actual beginning of pregnancy and also the time when the gender of the baby is determined. Some women experience slight spotting and bleeding because of the fertilized egg moving into the uterus. They may even experience nausea but there is nothing to worry about. During this time your baby is growing remarkably fast but is still too small to detect with the naked eye. But it will change rapidly in the weeks that come. It starts developing its head, spinal chord and the gastrointestinal tract. You will even notice that your waistline is expanding but you shouldnt fear the weight gain that is inevitable at this time. In fact, it is very natural and healthy to gain weight during pregnancy as much of it is due to the growing placenta, amniotic fluid, and the fluid collecting in the tissue and the baby. The weight gain is also because of the accumulation of the maternal fat that helps in supporting the breastfeeding. The third week of pregnancy is the time when a lot of changes are about to occur in your body. Appreciate these changes and remember that they help in supporting you and the baby throughout your pregnancy

Week 3 of pregnancy is the time when doctors usually prescribe folic acid tablets as it helps in preventing the baby from defects. During this week, the amniotic fluid starts collecting around the cells that comprise the embryo. It helps in cushioning your baby during the entire nine months of pregnancy.

Your Babys Growth and Development in Week 4 of Pregnancy

When you are 4 weeks pregnant, your baby is about to 1 mm long. Quite an accomplishment for the little one! It will now start imbedding itself deeper into the uterus lining as the amniotic cavity and the placenta is beginning to form. The placenta helps in transporting the oxygen and nutrients to the baby from vascular networks and blood from your body. Week 4 of pregnancy is the time when your baby starts developing its organs as different layers of cells develop in your body. Pregnancy symptoms are greater in the fourth week. Morning sickness, dizziness, and tender or sore breasts are some of the common symptoms during the fourth week. Other symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and mood swings may also occur during this time. The week 4 which marks 1 month of pregnancy is actually very crucial for the woman and her baby as this is the time when the fetus is prone to different kinds of abnormalities. It is thus very important that the mother takes utmost care of herself by starting to take a healthy and well-balanced diet. This is the time when she needs a lot of rest and should give up smoking and drinking. It is even recommended that you schedule an appointment with your obstetrician.

Prenatal care is very important during the initial weeks of pregnancy that are crucial for your babys development. Week 4 of pregnancy is the time when, along with placenta, the umbilical cord develops which helps in supplying oxygen and other nourishments to the fetus. That warns you to be extra careful about your nutrition during pregnancy.

Complications to Avoid in Week 5 of Pregnancy

Rapid changes occur in both the mother and her baby when she is 5 weeks pregnant . The embryo now starts forming its limbs and ears. The eyes begin to appear and the head starts forming mouth and nostrils. Your babys tiny heart has formed and has begun to beat and pump blood. This week, the baby will also have the first of the many growth spurts. The baby also begins forming its skeleton by the end of the fifth week of pregnancy. On the whole, the baby will have a distinct shape by the end of this week. This is the time when early pregnancy complications such as ectopic pregnancy occur. It happens mostly when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus instead of imbedding itself into the uterus. Measuring the levels of HCG is the best way to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy. Other complications such as a blighted ovum or a molar pregnancy lead to miscarriage.

Fact of being 5 weeks pregnant

Instead of consuming coffee, better make a habit of drinking steamed milk. Taking a soothing drink will help you avoid nausea and continue with your morning rituals. Also drinking milk is beneficial for your baby as your baby will get enough calcium for proper growth of its bones, nails and teeth, especially now that you are 5 weeks pregnant.

Symptoms such as morning sickness, nausea, dizziness and soreness in the breasts are all continued even in the fifth week and some women may also experience mood swings. The need to urinate more frequently is also one of the symptoms and this is caused due to the growing size of the uterus.

It is important to adapt a healthy lifestyle to avoid all these potential complications. However, if you experience any abnormal symptoms even after switching to a healthy diet and a good nutritious food, make sure that you contact your obstetrician or your healthcare provider immediately.

Pregnancy Week 6 Changes in You and the Baby

The main thing that your healthcare provider wants to discuss with you when you are 6 weeks pregnant is your diet. Your baby has begun to develop all its vital organs in its fifth week and it is now time to provide all the nourishment it needs to grow up healthy. In this week, your babys brain starts to develop and divides itself into its 3 regions. Other physical features also develop and are completely surrounded by the amniotic sac. The heart starts beating at the rate of 100-150 beats per minute and you can even feel it. Experts say that your baby starts making its first movement during week 6 but they are so light that a mother is unable to feel the movements. As all the organs are developing rapidly, this is the time as is the entire time of your pregnancy that you take utmost care of your diet. Folic acid intake should be continued until the first trimester of your pregnancy as it helps in the development of all the organs of your baby. Breakfast cereals, kidney beans, broccoli, and whole wheat breads and pastas are all rich in folic acid and are especially important for pregnant woman. However, a 400 mcg tablet is seen as a substitute by many carrying women.

You will have some weight gain in the sixth week of your pregnancy and the uterus will start growing. The sixth week is also the time when most miscarriages occur. So, if you do notice any abnormal spotting or bleeding, your healthcare provider should be contacted immediately.

Increased Symptoms in Week 7 of Pregnancy

As you are 7 weeks pregnant now, your baby is visible through an ultrasound scan as it has quadrupled its size since conception. Of course, sometimes embryos can be seen from as early as six weeks. The babys nerves start functioning in the seventh week and it is even able to open its mouth. Another important factor in week 7 is that your baby develops its muscle systems and is producing its own blood. This is because the babys liver is working to produce red blood cells. Symptoms like mood swings, dizziness, nausea, morning sickness, and frequent urination may still continue and the tenderness in the breasts persists. Constipation is also a problem in many women during this time and hence they are advised to drink a lot of water. Vomiting becomes severe and there might also be chances of weight loss which is due to the hormonal changes in the body. While you cant avoid these changes occurring inside your body, you can relieve them to some extent by doing some simple things. W h i l e t h e p a i n c a n b e s u b s i d e d a l i t t l e b y t a k i n g Ty l e n o l , meditation and yoga are considered beneficial during the e n t i r e p r e g n a n c y. Eating food rich in nutrients and green leafy vegetable is good to make up for the lost nutrients in your body. It is also good for the development of the baby as the food you consume during the entire pregnancy will have a lot of effect on the development of your baby. As the baby starts developing major organs, it is essential that you manage the cravings that occur during this time and avoid substances that might prove harmful for you or the baby.

Babys Development of Organs in Week 8 of Pregnancy

Your baby is starting to look a little bit more human as you are now 8 weeks pregnant. Its upper lip, ears, eyelids and nose are forming rapidly. It will also start developing its toes and fingers this week. The baby stretches and causes some sort of discomfort for you. The brain development is rapid this week making the head appear slightly big. The nerve cells are beginning to connect with one another. The heart is now divided into 4 chambers and is pumping blood throughout the body. The umbilical is completely formed connecting you both through the placenta. Though you are 8 weeks pregnant and your uterus is continuo-usly growing to accommodate the little one, it is likely that you are not showing much on the outside. It is hard to believe but your baby is now the size of a grape fruit even though it has developed all the vital organs that we all have. The chances of showing out are more if you are carrying twins or triplets as your babies will take more room in the uterus. You might have even noticed that your breasts are slightly enlarged. Breast growth continues throughout the pregnancy as the breasts prepare to make breast milk for the baby. Back pain is also a common discomfort during this time as the growing uterus is putting pressure on your lower back. Although pregnancy presents various challenges, its a wonderful journey for you and the little one. And it is very important to let your doctor know how you are doing to help you make your pregnancy more relaxing.

Facts about being 8 weeks pregnant

Good prenatal care is very much essential for the health and safe delivery of your baby. So, make sure that the prenatal appointments are your top priority

Pregnancy Week 9 Can You Hear the Heartbeat?

You are reaching at the end of the first trimester when you are 9 weeks pregnant . And of course there are notable changes inside both of you. Breast soreness and tenderness increase along with the increase in the breast size. Chances are that they will grow even more as the breast tissue will grow during pregnancy probably to let the milk come in later. Your blood volume also increases and adds up to 4-5 ponds of weight. Changes in the maternal fat and the amniotic fluid volume will further increase your weight during pregnancy which is quite normal. Your baby too is having a lot of physical changes and is growing rapidly. Its fingers are well formed now, and the toes are taking shape. It now even has its own unique fingerprints, and the ankle and wrist joints are developing. You may also hear your babys heartbeat in week 9 of pregnancy with the help of a Doppler. And its not a big issue if you really cant hear the heartbeat as it is just 1 inch in length and weighs mere 2 grams! You need to take utmost care during this time and consume enough protein foods. In addition to taking nutritious diet, avoid smoking and drinking completely as they increase the risk of miscarriage when you are nine weeks pregnant. The most remarkable change that your baby undergoes during your ninth week of pregnancy is the growth of sexual organs. Your baby now resembles a human more closely. At this stage your little ones head is half the size of its body.

Week 10 of Pregnancy Time for CVS

Your baby has completely developed into a fetus from the embryo when you are 10 weeks pregnant. You will even find relief from some of your pregnancy symptoms such as the morning sickness. You are still in your first trimester of your pregnancy and are still not safe from the chances of a miscarriage. It is therefore very important to make your movements slow and steady. Most hormonal changes occur during this time and the blood volume increases to about 40-50%. Hormonal changes occur due to rapid growth of the placenta which is also responsible for hormone changes in your babys b o d y t o o . Yo u w i l l s l o w l y s t a r t n o t i c i n g c h a n g e s i n y o u but your body doesnt show out too much. External genital organs begin to appear in your baby that w e r e u n t i l n o w d e v e l o p i n g i n t e r n a l l y. Yo u r b a b y d o u b l e s its growth in week 10 of pregnancy and all the essential organs begin functioning. It also starts swallowing the amniotic fluid around it which provides the nourishment it needs. The end of week 10 of pregnancy is considered the best time for having the chronic villus sampling test which identifies any chromosome abnormalities and detects any other genetic conditions. Avoid dieting during pregnancy as it might be harmful to the baby. Eat sensibly and have nutritious foods in sufficient quantities. Do not forget that the quality of food you eat during this period will have a great effect on your babys growth.

In addition to taking a balanced diet and taking good care of your health, you need to avoid exposure even to second-hand smoke to give birth to a healthy and lovely baby.

Week 11 of Pregnancy and the Growing Hormone Production

Now that you are 11 weeks pregnant, you have approached the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. Your morning sickness has reduced completely. If not, it will reduce by the end of week 11. This is because even the hormone production has reduced due to your babys growing pituitary gland. Your stomach now begins to grow slowly and you might have gained weight. There is nothing to worry even if you have not yet gained any weight as you will in the second trimester. Most of the women who have experienced more morning sickness do not gain weight in the first trimester. Your baby is able to open and close its fists, and there are little buds forming inside its mouth that will eventually develop into teeth.

By week 11 of your pregnancy, you begin to notice that your fingernails and hair are starting to grow rapidly. And as the uterus is growing and expan -ding, it will be very difficult for you to get more comfortable during nights.

All the vital organs of the baby have been formed and are functioning. The risks of defects decrease as the baby is now less prone to outside influences. Your baby starts moving frequently but you may not notice this. Your baby is now 2 inches long and weighs one third of an ounce.

Eat healthy and always be in good spirits as much as possible throughout your pregnancy. Include more nutritious and vitamin -rich food in your diet which helps both you and the baby.

Changes in You and the Baby in Week 12 of Pregnancy

Major changes occur in both the baby and you when you are 12 weeks pregnant. You might be noticing some skin changes during this week along with relief from nausea and morning sickness. Your uterus is gradually growing along with the baby and your tummy starts to show. You will also produce large amounts of progesterone by now and might experience some heartburn. Pregnancy week 12 is the time to regain your appetite that was lost due to nausea and the morning sickness and all the other symptoms that bothered you. Eat healthy and nutri-tious food, and at the same time, make sure that you are not eating any food that is not cooked thoroughly. Semi-cooked meat and steaks increase the chances of toxoplasmosis an infection that might prove dangerous f o r y o u r g r o w i n g b a b y. As you have reached the end of your first trimester and your baby is growing rapidly, its time for you to take more calcium-rich foods as they help your baby in growing healthy bones, teeth and muscle. By now, your little ones placenta starts producing hormones and his nerve cells start growing rapidly. It will also start to practice breathing inside the amniotic fluid. Tooth buds too begin to appear and there is a need for you to boost your calcium intake. Avoid excessive intake of vitamin A as this might damage the liver and cause jaundice. In week 12 of pregnancy, some women form a dark vertical line along their abdomen which is quite natural. Avoid smoking and even second hand smoke completely as research suggests that you can reduce the chances of asthma development from 5-15% if you stay away from smoking during pregnancy.

Week 13 of Pregnancy The Beginning of the Second Trimester

You have entered the second trimester of your pregnancy as you are now 13 weeks pregnant. Youll also feel relieved a lot as the risk of miscarriage has now dropped dramatically. Even if your baby is still tiny, your tummy tells the world that you are expecting. If you see through your stomach through a scan, you would see a completely formed baby with unique finger prints even if it is now half the size of a banana. Apart from your growing belly, you will notice the formation of bumps in your breasts. Yet, they do not pose any threats for your health and are quite natural; they help the breasts in making colostrums the first milk that nourishes your little one after his birth. By now, you might have regained your appetite and are far from all the dreadful symptoms that bothered in your initial weeks. You will also look more radiant and energetic because of the improved blood flow. Improve your eating and exercise habits as this will help you both in the long run. By this time, your baby will start producing insulin with its tiny liver and this will help the baby regulate its blood-sugar levels as it develops day by day. The babys eyes too will start to move to the front of its face.

Abdominal aches in week 13 of pregnancy are common as the uterus is gradually expanding. In addition to taking necessary supple-ments, you should also take necessary minerals and itamins that are essential for the baby to grow healthy.

Improve Your Energy Levels as You Enter Week 14 of Pregnancy

It can be very hard to find relief from the lower back pain when you are 14 weeks pregnant and this pain is much more in working mothers. But the good news is that you have gained back all your energy level and are in your glory days. Simple exercises are recommended now to fight with the backache. Constipation is a common problem faced by many during this period and this might be reduced with drinking lot of water. It is also suggested that you include more fiber foods in your diet to keep your bowels moving. You will be too hungry during this time because of the growing need for more calories for both you and the baby. By now, your babys ears will start to move to their place at the sides of the head and the eyes are now almost near the front of your babys face. Even the babys chin starts forming as the neck is slowly getting longer. Still keep away from raw and uncooked meat and be aware of your food intake to match the required calories. Generally during this period, your caloric needs will rise by 300 calories a day. This is actually because your baby must receive all the essential nutrition needed to grow healthy.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle as any thing you eat or drink will have a lot of effect on your baby who is growing increasingly proportional.

It is also the time to relax when you are 14 weeks pregnant , as it is important to lighten the muscles and joints in your body for more comfort.

Pregnancy Week 15 and the Developments in You Both

You need more rest as you are now 15 weeks pregnant. Getting a lot of rest helps you in boosting your immune system and also in promoting your health. The hormonal production has increased along with increased blood flow for the past few weeks and you are expecting sudden side effects such as excessive salivation. The swelling of the mucus membranes in the nose too cause some inconvenience such as stuffy nose in many women. Most of the essential organ systems of your baby will grow a lot during this week of pregnancy. Your baby is growing rapidly and its bones are getting harder and stronger. By this time your baby is spending most of its time in practicing how to breathe. The taste buds will also start to form during this time. Your abdomen will start looking more bloated and you might have gained 5-10 pounds by now. The uterus slowly starts rising and moves past the hip bones. Relax a lot during this time as it helps you from increased stress levels due to lack of concentration. Most of the women fall victim to infections of the urinary tract during this period because of increased levels of progesterone. Take all necessary measures to prevent the bacteria from entering you and if you face such problems, consult your health care provider, who will likely prescribe antibiotics to help you out. Take good care of your health and eat well. Exercise whenever possible to promote both your and your babys health and well being.

Pregnancy Week 16 Hows Your Baby Growing?

Increased blood volume and the altered levels of hormones make your heart work harder when you are 16 weeks pregnant. The nasal congestion that started last week will continue even in this week as it will throughout your pregnancy. This is probably because of the softening of the tissues and due to the deficiency of vitamin C. All this conditions will be resolved once the baby is born. Your baby is now strong enough to hold its head straight and the ears and eyes are moving to their final positions. The baby is now mainly focusing on its circulation system and its tiny heart is pumping about 25 quarts of blood every day. Thin fine hair starts growing on the babys head and the limbs are beginning to lengthen. Your baby is now a little more than 4 inches and weighs around 3 ounces and has some facial expressions too. For the first time in your pregnancy period, you might fell a little fluttering in your belly. Week 16 of pregnancy is the time when most mothers report that their babies move inside. Some firsttime-mothers take a week or more to feel such movements inside them. So, there is no need to panic as this is very natural. Continue taking a balanced diet and the required nutritious foods and vitamin supplements as week 16 of pregnancy is the time when your baby is more prone to neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities. Consult your health care provider to undergo tests including the AFP test that indicates if the baby is at the risk of developing some central nervous system or spinal chord problems.

17 Weeks Pregnant Feel Your Babys Movements

When you are 17 weeks pregnant, your uterus should be about 2 inches below your belly button. You will gain more weight gradually. The uterus starts to change its shape and occupies more space thus putting more pressure on your intestines and pressing them to the sides. Your baby can now hear even though the ears are not completely functional. This is because the brain is developing its parts that aid hearing and other senses. The baby is now capable of moving all its body parts and is also able to swallow and digest the amniotic fluid. The baby also starts storing the fat from the amniotic fluid that will help in keeping it warm after the birth. Your baby now weighs about 5 ounces and is a little over 5 inches long. As your little one is growing rapidly, the uterus will soon occupy your abdomen and pelvis but this will not cause any distress to you. In this week 17 of pregnancy, there will be vaginal discharge which is normal in pregnant women. This is due to the increased estrogen production in the mother and a greater blood flow in the genital region. It is normally fine if the discharge is clear or milky and is odorless. However if you doubt that the vaginal discharge is amniotic fluid you should consult your health care provider immediately. This might also be sometimes due to pre-term labor. Take necessary steps to avoid stress and exercise lightly and also maintain a healthy diet.

18 Weeks Pregnant Time to Increase Your Appetite

You are 18 weeks pregnant and in the middle of your second trimester of pregnancy. Most health care providers suggest that you undergo ultrasound scanning in this week to detect abnor-malities, if any, in the baby. This will also help you in planning ahead for any interventions that may be necessary for the baby after its birth. By now, your babys genitals are clearly distinguishable. The baby has also started producing Myelin a substance essen-tial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. This will be produced until the ninth month. Your little one now weighs a little more than five ounces and may be between 5 and 6 inches long. You can now probably feel the uterus just near the navel. It is now the size of a small melon and you can even feel it below your tummy. You might have gained around 15 pounds by now which is just normal. You may start getting a little bit uncomfortable because of the growing belly and find it difficult to get a good night sleep. To overcome this, lie on your left side while you are sleeping as this will provide you more comfort and helps in preventing your veins form compression. Buying a pregnancy pillow is also suggestible as it supports your growing belly and the uterus.

You will be feeling hungrier because of the growing need of good nutrition. Make sure that your diet is nutritious and balanced as our baby will take all it needs from your reserves.

Week 19 of Pregnancy More Noticeable Changes

You are about halfway through your pregnancy when you are 19 weeks pregnant and your baby is getting bigger every day. If you already had your ultrasound, you might probably know what you are having inside you. Whether it is a boy or a girl, your babys genitals are now in place. Your babys nervous is busy this week and the brain too is working hard as the special areas that help in your babys senses are fast developing. More noticeable changes occur in the baby in this week 19 of pregnancy and there are more movements. The babys legs are developed and the baby is now measured from head to toe which could be around 6.5 inches. The sensory development is also very fast and some research suggests that the baby may be able to hear your voice now. The baby also develops a protective layer called vernix over his body. This white sticky substance protects the babys skin in the amniotic fluid. This is the time to start doing some exercises if you havent already. Regular exercises help you in increasing the flexibility of your body which will further help you relieving the tension and pain during the labor. A slight increase in discomfort is notice in this week due to increased heartburn. This is because the uterus is still pushing up against your tummy so that all the essential nutrients reach the fetus more efficiently.

There is a substantial demand for iron in the body when you are pregnant. So, iron intake is very essential for both you and the baby. Eat iron-rich foods such as red me at, nuts, legumes, and iron-fortified breakfast cereals and bread.

Week 20 of Pregnancy The Halfway Mark

Your pregnancy signifies the halfway mark when you are 20 weeks pregnant. Your baby is now practicing breathing and swallowing in the amniotic fluid. It weighs a little over 10 ounces and measures approximately 6.5 inches. Other changes in the baby include the formation of teeth buds which are hidden under the gums for now. The babys bones are getting stronger and his skin is gathering more layers Another major change in the baby is the development of sleep patterns. Most of the babies fall into noticeable cycles of sleep during this time. The immunities also begin to develop during this week as your body transfers antibodies into your little one. You might feel a little breathless at this stage as the uterus is pushing upwards at your belly button. Be careful with your posture so as not to stress your spine. This can lead to back problems in the future. Using a pregnancy pillow is suggested as this will help you from straining your spine and also in alleviating the back pain. You will be gaining about 1 pound a week from now and eating a balanced diet will help you and the flourishing baby inside. Your belly too will be growing regular form this point of time and you can observe regular changes. Constipation and heartburn seem to persist still and you might also start feeling a little clumsier from this week 20 of pregnancy.

Get good nutrition as it helps in giving you the required strength and stamina to make it through pregnancy with good health.

Pregnancy Week 21 You Have a Miniature Baby!

When you are 21 weeks pregnant, you will be gaining more weight and fat along with your growing baby. You might face some swelling problems due to increased weight and the pressure put on the legs. These problems will subside naturally and can be even tackled with the help of maternity support belts and hoses. They help you in avoiding the discomfort in the ankles throughout your pregnancy. The uterus continues its growth and is now pressing against your rectum. Due to increased blood flow and increased levels of pregnancy hormones, you may experience sensitive gums which may even bleed in some women. Despite all these changes, you will be comfortable and in full swing pregnancy mode. However, regular exercises and stretching are suggested to alleviate these discomforts. Inside, the babys organ systems continue to develop preparing for the life outside. The umbilical cord starts thickening and growing as more blood travels through it from you to the baby. The babys digestive system too develops as much that the tiny intestines will contract and expand as your little one absorbs small amounts of amniotic fluid. Your babys eye brows and the eye lids are also completely grown now. Your baby's growth will slow a little now as more concentration is developing the organs and the central nervous system. Your baby can now hear you if you speak and sing.

Maintain your physical well being by doing regular but light exercises that help in better circulation both for you and to your baby.

Week 22 of Pregnancy Time for Itchy Belly

Your uterus is continuously growing and is a little above your navel when you are 22 weeks pregnant. While the baby presents high paced changes, this is the time when you will notice some skin changes in you. The continuously pushing uterus leaves some stretch marks on your belly which cause itchiness. There are a variety of lotions that help you in limiting these stretch marks. Even though you cannot completely prevent these stretch marks, you should consider using rich moisturizers to keep your skin subtle, smooth and glowing after the delivery. Foot and leg cramps, mild swelling on the ankles and feet, and a slight increase in the heart rate are some common conditions seen in this week of pregnancy. These are quite normal and only indicate that your body is working a little harder. Pregnancy week 22 also marks for significant changes in your baby too. The hands have grown stronger and bigger and the nerve ending have developed the sense of touch. The baby will now be able to touch and grab and feel the senses. The brain is still continuing its growth as it will until your little one is 5 years old. The growth of the taste buds helps the baby in detecting the strong flavors in the amniotic fluid. Your baby now almost weighs a pound and measure about 11 inches.

Concentrate more on your diet and see to it that the food you eat is balanced and nutritious. Poor diet can have severe consequences on the physical and mental health of your baby.

Sleep Discomforts in Week 23 of Pregnancy

Your body undergoes various other changes along with the growing stretch marks when you are 23 weeks pregnant. And due to the stretching stomach muscles, your navel will pop out a little but will return to its natural position once you deliver the baby. You might have approximately gained 15 pounds by now and might experience some muscle cramps in the legs. You will also find it very difficult to sleep in a comfortable position because of the belly that has now acquired the clear round shape. This discomfort in sleep may be dealt with using pregnancy pillows that give you a better chance to sleep comfortably throughout the night. The increase in the blood volume in lower parts of the body forces you to make frequent trips to the bathroom. Changes in your blood chemistry may cause some water retention which may result in swelling known as edema. H o w e v e r, t h i s c o u l d b e a v o i d e d b y k e e p i n g y o u r b o d y movements frequent and avoid sitting for longer hours. The babys pancreas is developing inside the baby and the baby has also started producing insulin. Now the baby can hear your noise and your heart beat as well. The babys tiny bones continue to ossify and the veins are now clearly visible through the translucent skin. The baby is still developing those fat deposits that will be padded under the wrinkly skin after the delivery.

Continue taking the recommended daily intake of essential nutrients that are necessary for the strength and stamina of your developing baby.

Pregnancy Week 24 and the Physical Changes in the Baby

Your uterus is now on top of your belly button and is of the size of a soccer ball. As a result, you will be having trouble bending and sitting comfortably. You will be gaining more weight which is just normal in all the mothers-to-be. You will also observe a lot of changes in your and the bay when you are 24 weeks pregnant. Take small frequent meals as your baby is in need of more nutrients now. It is suggested that you have six small meals a day instead of three so as to cope with your babys developmental needs. By the time you are 24 weeks pregnant, you can feel the movements of your baby completely. The need for frequent urination, heartburn, anxiety and the growing discomfort lead to loss of sleep. The amniotic fluid begins to increase in volume and will continue until the delivery. By now, the baby weighs about 2 lbs and measures 14 inches long. The skin is still wrinkled and will be normal once the fat is deposited and the muscles are formed. The little ones fingernails and the ears are now completely developed.

The baby is gaining more bone mass and the rapid eye movement has already begun. And as the baby is growing in size, the space inside the uterus is filled up and becomes more crowded.

Continue doing moderate exercises to fell better throughout the pregnancy and to have more stamina during labor. And be sure that your diet is adequate as pregnancy is more complicated in undernourished women.

Pregnancy Week 25 and the Growing Back Pain

By the time you are 25 weeks pregnant the growing uterus may put some pressure on your back. Most of the women experience severe pain in their lower back region and the legs because of this mounting pressure.
Along with some growing back pain and leg cramps, week 25 is the time when many women come across pregnancy complications such as preterm labor and premature pregnancy. Meanwhile, the babys going through the remaining major improvements such as gaining weight and development of the central nervous system. The nostrils begin to open and the respiratory system gets stronger in this week.

The babys spine starts to mature and the brain and nerve endings are so developed that the baby can sense the touch. You need to take enough care at this stage to deal with the growing needs of the baby and to keep yourself fit. Increase the calcium intake as this helps you in reducing the cramps in the legs and also in relieving the back pain. Moreover it is quite essential for the babys developing spine and his bones. Avoid activities that worsen your pain and always support your body with cushions and body pillows. Pregnancy pillows help you a lot during this time in getting a better sleep and providing comfort. Consider some light exercises that your health care provider recommends and always have a balanced and well-planned diet to avoid unnecessary complications.

The babys breathing movements also increase as a result of the well-developed lungs. By now, the baby weighs about 1.5 pounds and is probably 14 inches longer.

Pregnancy Week 26 Marks the End of Second Trimester

Being 26 weeks pregnant means that you are now at the end of the second trimester and almost gone through twothirds of your pregnancy. Instead of complaining over problems like back ache and leg cramps, jus have a look at all those positive bits such as the neatly grown belly, renewed energy, and the healthy hair and skin. And all this because of the growing little one! You will feel more discomfort because of the growing belly and this will continue in the coming weeks. Most women experience some sudden tightening and relaxing of the uterus which is by now two-and-a-half inches above the belly button. However, these contractions are very common and are painless. Other discomforts such as leg cramps, back pain, headache and pressure in the pelvis continue and there might also be a condition known as restless leg syndrome where youll experience restless and jittery legs. Do simple exercises that slowly stretch the muscles and keep you physically active. Movements also increase inside your belly as the bay is more active betweens weeks 24 and 28. The brain activities inside the bay have developed and help in sight and hearing. This is the time when the baby will have the first moments of sight. Air sacs called alveoli start to develop inside the babys lungs and they will continue growing for the next 9 years. By now, the baby is 14 inches long and weighs about one-and-a- half pound. Vitamin intake needs to be boosted and it is suggested to take small and frequent meals rich in fiber. This will further help in reducing the constipation.

Pregnancy Week 27 Beginning of the Third Trimester

Various major changes occur in you and the baby when you are 27 weeks pregnant. Increased sleep deprivation and weight cause shortness of breath and increase the levels of fatigue in you. The growing uterus further compresses the bladder resulting in frequent urination. Shortness of breath is experienced because of the increased size of the bay. At week 27 of pregnancy, most of the women experience what is called as Braxton hicks contractions pre-labor contraction that help your body prepare for labor. And the good news is that they are not painful. This is the time when the milk glands start developing due to which, you will experience breast tenderness. The babys brain tissue and the neurons are developing rapidly and his brain is working as that of a newborn. If the baby is male, the testes will have completely descended by this point of time. As the network of nerves around the ears has now completely developed, the baby is able to hear you and might also recognize your voice. The retinas start forming and the baby is able to see the light through your abdomen. By now, the baby will have regular patterns of movements and sleep and is also sensitive to outside touch. At this point, the baby weighs a little over 2 pounds and is approximately 15 inches long. Take at least 15 minutes of rest or a catnap to feel energetic and recharged during the day. Continue taking a well-balanced and nutritious diet and practice some light exercises to strengthen your pelvis muscles and support the bladder to overcome urinary incontinence.

Pregnancy Week 28 and the Symptoms

The baby is growing and developing at an astonishing rate when you are 28 weeks pregnant and the space is getting a little tight. The eyes are completely formed along with the eyebrows and the eye lashes, the muscle tone is gradually improving, lungs are capable of breathing and the baby is even able to open and close the eyes. The first few weeks of the third trimester is the period of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, aches and pains, and leg cramps. All this is because the uterus is still growing in size to accommodate the growing baby and because you have even gained a weigh of around 24 pounds at this point.
Even the baby will make you tense by kicking more and stronger during this week. However, the kicks will become significantly less as the space in the womb becomesinadequate in the coming weeks. Pregnancy week 28 is the time to be aware of the potential risks of pre-term labor. Drink enough water to keep the contractions of the uterus smooth and consult your health care provider immediately if you experience any menstrual type cramping or severe back pain. Youll need to get a shot of RhoGAM, or Rh immunoglobulin, this week if your blood showed that you are Rh negative. This will prevent you from becoming sensitized to your baby's blood should it mix with yours during the time of pregnancy.

Overall, the babys features are well developed and at this time, the little one looks almost exactly what he or she is going to look after the delivery.

Pregnancy Week 29 Monitor the Babys Movements

Pay attention to your babys movements when you are 29 weeks pregnant. For any reason, if you observe that the babys movements are less or abnormal, contact your health care provider for proper guidance. By this week you might have gained an overall weight of 20-24 pounds and your uterus is now approximately four inches above your navel. Sometimes, you will be plagued by the heartburn because of the belly growing more and more substantial each day. Pregnancy constipation is also another problem faced by may pregnant women in week 29. Consume lots of liquids and eat a fiber-rich diet. Pregnancy week 29 is also the time when you experience various other symptoms including rapid weight gain. By this time, the baby's brain is forming billions and billions of neurons each day and can control the breathing and the temperature of the body as it continues to mature. The babys sucking abilities are improving and the baby can even cough and cry. The lungs too start maturing and the babys skin is now less wrinkled because of the packed pounds.
More so than ever, this is the right time to eat right and enough every day as your baby will start absorbing plenty of nutrients from you to gain weight and prepare for the delivery. By this time, the baby is around 16 inches long and weight about 2.5 pounds

Perform light exercises that help you to strengthening your abdominal muscles and take enough iron supplements as iron deficiency is considered the most common problem during pregnancy. However, iron supplements cause constipation.

30 Weeks Pregnant Pay Attention to Your Weight

Pay close attention to your weight gain and the swelling you're experiencing when you are 30 weeks pregnant. Extreme swelling may be the sign of Preeclampsia a condition that occurs in very small percentage of pregnant women. Preeclampsia is a potentially dangerous condition that can include sudden weight gain, extreme swelling and severe headache. But, when properly treated, it can be managed. Week 30 of pregnancy is also the time when you are likely to develop varicose veins. They appear as fine bluish or reddish lines under your skin and are caused due to weakness in the small veins. The amount of amniotic fluid starts decreasing inside your belly and the production of progesterone in your body increases. The decrease in the amniotic fluid is because your little one continuing the growth and is taking up most of the space in the uterus. By now, your uterus might have reached about 4 inches above your belly button.
Inside, the babys toe nails are growing and the eyelids open and close. The early lanugo is disappearing and the bone marrow is now producing the red blood cells. Even the movements will be very frequent and you may even recognize the body parts.

Week 30 of pregnancy is the hard time shifting from one position to another and you will be having more trouble sleeping comfortably at nights as the belly expands. Using a pregnancy pillow may bring you some comfort.

Week 31 of Pregnancy Less Movements Inside the Tummy

Being 31 weeks pregnant, you will probably have some trouble catching the breath. But be careful to prevent excessive fatigue and dizziness. The movements inside your tummy become less frequent has the baby has less room to swim about in the amniotic fluid. The uterus now measures about 4.5 inches above your navel and the breasts start leaking colostrums or premilk that forms in the breasts to nourish the baby after its birth. Use good breast pads to prevent the leaks from being known to others. At this time, you might experience some pains and aches along with numbness in your hands. All this conditions are normal in most of the pregnant women because of the continuous weight gain and changing hormone levels. There is no need to panic as all these symptoms will disappear after the delivery. By this week, your baby is about 17 inches long and weighs about 4 pounds. During this and the weeks to come, the baby will be accumulating layers under the skin that will help the baby in keeping safe and warm after the delivery.
The babys immune system is getting stronger and the nerve connections begin to function. By now, all the important body organs of the baby have almost completely developed except for the lungs. Continue taking small and frequent meals to avoid heartburn and take necessary precautions to stay away from the aching back.

Iron intake is very important in the third trimester of pregnancy as there is a large shift of iron in the baby.

Whats Happening at Pregnancy Week 32?

Now that you are almost 32 weeks pregnant, you will probably be feeling contractions in the belly on a regular basis. From now on, you should be very careful with everything happening within you as indication of any severe pain can be labor pain. A lot of physical changes continue occurring in you and the baby. Your estrogen levels and the blood volume continue increasing as a result of which the leg cramps and the back aches may continue. Pain in the lower back and the buttocks around week 32 can also happen as a womans center of gravity continues to shift. You should be very careful while moving to avoid unnecessary slips or falls. When you are 32 weeks pregnant, your blood volume will be around 50% more than it was before pregnancy. This increase in the blood volume is necessary to support the babys growth.
As the baby is slowly dropping into pelvis in preparation for birth, the blood tends to pool in the mother s lower limbs which results in low cranial blood pressure that may lead to fainting or dizziness. In order to avoid this, take a small walk when you rise from a prolonged sitting position. There are even chances for the leakage of the amniotic fluid during this period. It is very essential to call your doctor if you experience any of these conditions. By this time, the babys lungs have completely matured and all the senses are working properly. Continue eating well and exercise moderately and stay as relaxed as possible by all means.

Facts to Know When You Are 33 Weeks Pregnant

You are probably getting more and more excited about your upcoming birth now that you are 33 weeks pregnant. The uterus now just fills up most of the abdominal region and now measure about 5 inches above the belly button. You may have gained around 28 pounds by this week. This week, the leg cramps become serious and you will still experience the difficulties such as troubled sleep and back ache. Gentle exercises might relieve you from these conditions. The growing baby makes a pretty tight fit in the uterus. Due to this, you may notice that the movements of the baby have slow down a little. This is the time you may want to consider pre-registering at the hospital. It will help you in speeding the admission process while you are in the throws of labor. You will be gaining a pound a week from now. If you notice any sudden swelling in face and severe pain in the Abdominal region along with nausea, it is better that you contact your health care provider immediately. These conditions might be due to pre-eclampsia a condition characterized by increase in blood pressure, swelling and loss of protein in the urine. It is considered . a serious complication during pregnancy Rapid growth of the brain has increased its size in proportion to the rest of the body and fat continues to settle under the babys skin, making it pink from red Even though the babys body is completely formed, he or she is still going through rapid growth. However there are very few changes remaining.

Pregnancy Week 34 The Baby Moves into the Pelvis

Breathing becomes easier when you are 34 weeks pregnant as your baby is now situated in your pelvis and is not compressing your lungs. However, the problem of frequent urination persists due to this position. You may also notice some numbness and tingling sensation in the pelvic region as the baby is putting pressure on the nerves. This condition is likely to persist until your delivery and it is suggested that you try to be in relaxed positions all the time. During this time, you will notice sudden contractions in the belly a sign that your body is getting ready for the delivery. The shape of your belly changes as it drops due to the baby turning in a downward position to get ready for birth. The navel pops out due to the expanding abdomen and you may also observe some itchy red bumps on your belly. The baby will now move into your pelvis and the babys head is on the pelvic bone. The baby has the immunity to fight on its own, against the infections, and antibodies are transferred from your blood into the baby. Lungs are completely developed and functional and the liver too is capable of processing certain amounts of waste. The babys weight is now about 5 pounds and measures approximately 17 inches long. Stop feeling uncomfortable and anxious and try to be as relaxed as possible during these weeks. Stress during pregnancy causes the release of catecholamines hormones released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. These hormones delay the labor and make the delivery difficult.

Pregnancy Week 35 and the Signs of Labor

You baby is around 5 and-a-half pounds when you are 35 weeks pregnant. Due to the accumulation of fat under the skin, the babys arms and legs plump up. By now, the baby is big enough to occupy almost all the place in the uterus and there is very little room to make any movements. During this last month of the pregnancy, most of the babies gain around half pound a week. The baby now weights up to 5.5 pounds and is about 20 inches long. Week 35 of pregnancy is the time when most of the women experience extreme mood swings. Even though the mood swings persisted all the time of the pregnancy, they are particularly a bit dramatic now. Some women may experience low levels of hemoglobin as the baby has utilized the iron levels in your body. Now is the time to elevate the hemoglobin levels back to normal so that you stay healthy and fit even after the delivery. If you are experiencing discomfort, swelling and fatigue, a careful body massage can be extremely helpful in relieving the pain and also helps you become stress-free. As you might be feeling more and more anxious because of the nearing delivery, it is suggested that you take some time to relax. Taking proper rest is also necessary as the last few weeks of pregnancy are very stressful and exhausting. Take frequent walks as it will help you in easing the labor pains and also continue taking a well balanced diet that is rich in iron and calcium.

Pregnancy Week 36 More Energy, More Fatigue

You are in the last month of your pregnancy when you are 36 weeks pregnant and it is very difficult for you getting a comfortable position. By now, you have gained about 25-30 pounds and your energy levels keep fluctuating. Mood swings are very common in this last month of pregnancy. You will experience rapid swings between fatigue and energy and could find yourself getting anxious, irritable and moody at times. Heartburn, constipation and discomfort are some common experiences. As you are coming to the end of your pregnancy, hormones secreted from the placenta trigger the milk production for feeding the baby. Because of this you may experience swelling of the breasts are they are filled with milk. The colostrums and milk further help in boosting your babys immature immune system after he or she is born. Meanwhile, the baby is also working hard on the final stages of its lung development while the kidneys are fully developed now. The baby is gradually loosing the lanugo hair covering the body. The skin gets pinker and is less wrinkly because of the deposition of fat. Vernix caseosa, the protective waxy covering around the babys skin, starts wearing off the skin and the baby is now dropped into heads down position by now. In this week, the baby also practices breathing, swallowing and sucking. The babys bones are now hardened completely and the muscle tone is also improved. The baby now weighs about 5 and a half pounds and is approximately 17 inches in length Continue having healthy balanced diets that give all the nutrition that the baby needs and take regular tests that evaluate the well being of both you and the baby.

Signs of Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy Week 37

You may have gained a weight of about 35 pounds by the time you are 37 weeks pregnant. In most women, the uterus stops growing and this is perfectly normal as the uterus stays roughly the same size between pregnancy week 37 and the delivery. The labor pains are quite normal during this time and it is very essential that you have regular prenatal checkups as you are now at a stage where you can get into labor at any time. You will also notice more vaginal discharge this week as your body is preparing for the labor. In some women who are overdue or who are having conditions like gestational diabetes, bleeding or pre eclampsia, the health care provider decides to induce the labor using a pitochin drip which stimulates the contractions. Most of the pregnant women find that the pitochin drips leads to stronger contractions. However, the contractions are steady with this medication and also minimize the complications. The uterus has stopped growing now and will remain the same until delivery. Due to this, the movements of the baby become less during this week and if you give birth now, your baby is considered as full term. The internal organs of the baby are now completely developed and the baby is now preparing for the life outside with regularly practicing breathing, sucking ad swallowing. By this time, the baby has even acquired enough coordination to grasp thing with the little fingers. The baby now weighs around 6.5 pounds and measures about 21 inches long. Take good care of your health and keep eating healthy as you continue the pregnancy from this point.

Pregnancy Week 38 and the Signs of Labor

At 38 weeks pregnant you may start worrying a little about the labor as your belly is sitting probably a little lower. You may experience pelvic pressure because the baby is settling into the pelvic region. As the baby is hitting at your nerves while pressing, you may experience unusual stings in your legs and inside the vagina. In order to overcome this, lift your legs up while you are sitting down in a comfortable position. As the cervix begins to dilate, you may lose your mucus plug which seals the cervix and prevents the infection during pregnancy. This occurs in the last month of pregnancy in most of the women and is not a predictor of labor contrary to what many people say. Frequent urination is another problem you will experience at this stage because of the pressure on the bladder and the thighs. Your baby continues to put on some weight even in this week and weighs about 6 pounds and is around 19 to 20 inches long. By now, the babys intestines have accumulated a considerable amount of meconium a mass of cells and waste products from the pancreas, liver and the gall bladder that will be eliminated shortly after the birth.

All the internal organs of the baby are well developed now and the baby is ready for the outside world.

Increase your iron intake and continue taking your prenatal vitamins as the baby experiences rapid growth during final weeks. Increasing your water intake is also very important at this stage as it will help in preventing dehydration during labor.

Pregnancy Week 39 Multiple Mood Swings

You will probably experience multiple mood swings when you are 39 weeks pregnant as you are quite ready for the delivery. Constipation and heartburn are the two common complaints during this time. Drinking enough water and eating something at short intervals will relieve you from both the problems. The uterus starts contracting thus slowing down the flow of oxygenated blood to the placenta. This is a natural process and should cause no worry. You will continue making the amniotic fluid even in this final stages but the rate of absorption is a little low. So the levels will start decreasing a bit. There might even be leaking of the fluid which should be reported immediately to your health care provider. Sometimes, it is a little difficult to tell the difference between the leaking of urine and the amniotic fluid. The best way to find out is to go to bed after probably an hour after emptying the bladder. Monitoring the babys heart rate is done during this time using internal or external monitoring systems. The internal monitoring systems give a more accurate reading while the external monitoring systems detect the babys heart rate similar to a Doppler ultrasound. By pregnancy week 39, there are many signs that your baby is full term. There is no longer any lanugo hair on the babys body and the finger nails are now extended beyond the finger tips.

The movements of the baby are far less now as there is no enough room inside your belly. The baby now weighs about 7 pounds and is around 20.5 inches long. Nutrition becomes more important than ever during these final weeks as you will need more strength and stamina to make it through the delivery with good health.

40 Weeks Pregnant Being Full Term

You are 40 weeks pregnant means that you are full term or in the last official week of pregnancy hopefully. Some women give birth in week 41 or week 42 of pregnancy. Only 4 % of women give birth on their due date. The weight gain will slow down considerably in the last week of pregnancy and most women feel a bit clumsy and tired. During this time of pregnancy, most of the women start thinking about natural induction if they dont experience labor. This decision should be carefully discussed and considered with your partner and the health care provider as research indicates that induction may lead to fetal distress and to a higher incidence of cesarean section. As you are very anxious during this time, discuss with your health care provider as what to eat and drink in early labor as when to call or come to the birthing center. At this time, you will probably experience real labor contractions that are more intense and painful. Generally these contractions occur in a frequency of 3-4 times every ten minutes and might probably last a minute. Other than this, you will experience phase II of labor which is called active labor, where the cervix is dilated up to 10 cms which leads to descending your baby into the pelvic region. The contractions then push the baby to move through the birth canal. The baby will be descended more slowly in first time mothers. In phase III, the placenta will expel within 20 to 30 minutes after the delivery. This organ must come out completely to avoid and bleeding or infections later. However, your health care provider will examine the placenta after it is expelled to be sure that no fragments are left. The baby is now ready for the world as it enters the pelvic region. Its head is downwards and the back is facing against the abdomen. A full-term baby weighs around 7 to 8 pounds and is about 22 inches.

40 Weeks Pregnant Being Full Term

Preserving health after pregnancy is as important as during pregnancy because the infections of uterus, urinary tract and breasts are common after delivery. In addition to best diet after pregnancy, increase your water intake as much as possible as it helps to clean the body from harmful substances. Healthcare after pregnancy is both important for the mother and her growing baby.

Po w e r e d b y
!www.thepregnancyzone.com