Your baby is growing, and it's just starting to show on you! By the end of this week your baby will be about the size of a grapefruit--but SO much sweeter!
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While baby's little ears are almost in place, the eyes are still far apart. Baby's tiny body is also covered in a fine coating of hair known as lanugo. Most of this "peach fuzz" will be shed around the time of birth. The growth spurt continues and your baby's skeleton is staring to really take shape. The bones are hardening and beginning to retain calcium, so it's vital that you continue to eat low-fat dairy products. Your baby will thank you!
Your Body This Week
You should begin to feel a bit of a tummy bulge now, about 3 to 4 inches below your belly button, but other people probably won't notice unless you are wearing a swimsuit. If you're not already a side-sleeper, this is a good time to begin. Lying on your back can create pressure on blood vessels and block circulation to your baby, while stomach sleeping can compress your uterus. Side sleeping is optimal for baby-and probably more comfortable for you, too!
Fuel Up
You eat right. You exercise. You (try to) get plenty of sleep. You know that these are the cornerstones of a healthy pregnancy. But did you know that doing one helps you with the others? For example, working out consistently is good. But eating the right things can make your workouts great! For more productive and energetic activity, it's important to eat breakfast, spread your eating as evenly as possible throughout the day, and get plenty of liquid fuel (water). Read more details about fueling up.
Safety Rules For Exercise Rookies
"Is it safe to begin exercising, even if I've never exercised before?" This is a common and understandable question, especially when you're treading in unfamiliar territory. The answer is "Yes - if?" Yes, if you check with your doctor. Yes, if you take it slow and don't overexert yourself. Yes, if you listen to your body and don't do more than it's ready for. Yes, if you pay extra attention to warming up and stretching. The payoff for working out, both for you and your baby, is enormous. To enjoy the most benefits, make sure you do it safely. To begin, learn how to pace (not race) your heart.
