“The first race I won was in the fallopian tube.”
—Marco Conati, winner of the Minnesota State High School Swim Meet—
(and one of Gail’s doula babies!)
The next nine months will bring changes and challenges to your mind, body, and spirit. Begin a self-care routine now to help you feel physically healthy and emotionally stable.
Walking, regularly exercising, and practicing yoga are ideal. Some activities are not recommended. These include exercises that have sudden jolting stops or twists, such as jumping, batting, bowling, horseback riding, etc. Extreme sports and some weightlifting activities may cause uterine ligaments to become unbalanced. Even this early in pregnancy, a daily routine that works toward a balanced body can increase comfort and is effective preparation for an easier birth.
So much is happening as your baby begins to form. This week, the embryo nestles into the lining of the uterus in the process of implantation. Your baby is now the size of a poppy seed. The placenta, amniotic sac, and fluid are forming, while the basis of baby’s spine and brain have already formed.
Pregnancy hormones increase quickly. You might not notice any changes yet, or you may notice some bloating or mood swings. Slight spotting is normal and is a sign of the embryo’s implantation in the wall of the uterus. If bleeding is as heavy as your period, or lasts several days, call your care provider.
For most pregnancies, a prenatal vitamin and other essential supplements offer nutrients for you and your baby. Drink plenty of water and get enough sleep. You may notice a heightened aversion to red meat, smoke, gas fumes, or cleaning products. This is your body reacting to help you avoid toxins.
