Week 36 Pregnancy Symptoms

Changes in fetal activity: As your baby’s quarters get more cramped and she has less room to maneuver, expect her movements to change too. You should still feel her moving, but there will be less jabbing and kicking, and a lot more squirming.

Heartburn or indigestion: As your stomach gets pushed up and squeezed by your uterus, you may feel like eating less at mealtimes. That’s not necessarily bad news. Smaller meals are better for your digestive system and may actually control heartburn.


Flatulence: As if heartburn weren’t enough, you’re probably passing gas and burping like a frat boy. This too shall pass (pun intended). In the meantime, go for smaller meals (which will help the heartburn) and try not to rush while eating (you’ll swallow more air).

Constipation: If it’s getting worse, blame your belly again (a convenient scapegoat!). The same mini-meals that will help ease heartburn and flatulence are also a good way to counteract constipation — and for the same reason. They won’t tax your digestive tract as much.

More frequent urination: Your baby might have dropped into your pelvis by now, crowding your bladder. So it’s no wonder you’re going to the bathroom as much as you did during your first two months of pregnancy. Don’t cut back on liquids — your body needs fluids to stay hydrated now more than ever.

Increased vaginal discharge, possibly tinged with blood: The discharge from your vagina may be increasing and getting thicker. Don’t be shocked if you notice the mucus is pinkish, red, or brownish after you’ve had sex or a vaginal examination. That just means that your cervix, which is sensitive now and may be starting to dilate, has been bruised.

Pelvic pressure and discomfort: Feeling pretty heavy down there in the pelvic region? That’s your baby burrowing deep into the pelvis as she prepares for birth, with her head pressing down on your bladder, hips, and pelvis. Try some pelvic tilts, or take a (long) soak in the tub to give yourself a break.

Itchy abdomen: Your belly might be stretched to the breaking point (or at least feel that way). Creams containing cocoa butter or vitamin E can soothe that itchy abdomen and bring some relief. (Better still, get your partner to rub it on your belly and do some bonding with the baby underneath!)

Increased swelling of ankles and feet: Edema (pregnancy swelling) may be getting more noticeable now as your body retains more fluids. So not only will your ankles and feet be swollen, but your face and hands (and fingers) may be too. Keep drinking water and other liquids. All those fluids will help rid your system of excess sodium and other waste products, which will minimize swelling.

Difficulty sleeping: Sleep may be more elusive than ever as you toss this way and that looking for the perfect position. Make sure your room isn’t too stuffy (you’re sure to feel overheated as the night wears on) by opening a window or lowering the thermostat.

Fatigue or extra energy: It’s normal to be tired by the time you hit week 36. But you may also get the burst of extra energy known as the nesting instinct — a need to get organized and ready for the baby. If you do feel energized, take breaks to rest and eat.


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Week 35 Pregnancy Symptoms

Heartburn or indigestion: Is your heartburn getting worse this week? That’s because your growing baby is taking over your abdominal real estate and pushing your stomach up. Avoid eating while you’re reclining — or lying down after a big meal (no matter how tempted you are to get off your feet).

Occasional headaches: If your head is pounding it could be for a number of reasons, including being overheated or stuck in a stuffy room. Take a break and go out for some air or open the window. Also ask your practitioner which pain reliever is safe (in moderation) during pregnancy. Most doctors will okay acetaminophen, as long as you don’t overdo.

Varicose veins: Have the varicose veins in your legs begun to ache (or itch)? Though support hose probably isn’t the hot-mama look you were trying to cultivate, it can help by giving the veins in your legs a little extra upward push to counteract the downward push your belly is giving them.

Hemorrhoids: Varicose veins can pop up anywhere — and those that appear in your rectum are called hemorrhoids. To soothe them, wipe yourself with warm water and toilet paper. If toilet paper is too harsh, switch to wipes.

Bleeding gums: Your gums may still be bleeding or tender now. To boost gum strength, get plenty of vitamin C. Drink an extra glass of OJ, sprinkle berries on your oatmeal or cereal, and toss tomatoes in your salad.

Skin changes: If you’ve suddenly got an itchy, bumpy rash on your belly, you could have PUPPP, which stands for “pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy.” The rashes are benign and cause no risk to your baby or to you, but they’re annoying. To soothe the itch, try applying aloe-vera gel after a shower or bath.

Increasing clumsiness: Balancing your body gets harder this week as you waddle toward the finish line (just a few more weeks to go!). Continue to play it safe — if you need to reach for something on a high shelf, ask your partner instead of climbing on a chair to get it.

Forgetfulness: You’re probably getting more absentminded as you count down the weeks. Your brain-cell volume really is shrinking and your bouts of sleeplessness don’t help, either. Expect the fog to lift a few months after your baby is born.

Braxton Hicks contractions: You may be experiencing some contractions as your body gets ready for the real thing during labor. Haven’t felt one yet? First-time moms-to-be may not notice the flexing of their uterine muscles (which feels like your abdomen is tightening).


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Week 34 Pregnancy Symptoms

Flatulence: As your third trimester progresses, you may be getting gassier. Anxiety just makes those gassy feelings worse — you tend to swallow more air when you’re stressed — so try this tension tamer: Breathe deeply through your nose and out through your mouth for a minute or two each day.

Constipation: Need to rev up those slow-moving bowels? Rough up your diet with some dried fruits, fruits and veggies, and whole grains. One thing you don’t want to do — take laxatives (even herbal ones). Get your practitioner on board before taking any medicine for constipation.

Increased vaginal discharge: As your pregnancy progresses, you could see an increase in vaginal discharge. Blame pregnancy hormones (especially estrogen) for this symptom — they increase blood flow to the pelvic area and stimulate the mucous membranes (making your juices flow). Wearing undies with a cotton crotch can keep you drier (and that can curb odors).

Hemorrhoids: Constipation’s almost constant sidekick? Hemorrhoids. These pesky piles can be kept to a minimum by doing Kegels, which can improve circulation to the area.

Backaches: Your shifting center of gravity from back to belly puts more pressure and (ouch!) pain on your lower back. There are many solutions to cure your aching back, so if one doesn’t work, another most certainly will. One to try: Take a break and stretch, stand, or walk. Sitting too long can make your back hurt even more.

Leg cramps: Leg cramps are most common around now, when the three main culprits — pregnancy weight, swelling, and fatigue — are at their peak. If you feel a spasm, try standing on a cold surface (that can sometimes stop one).

Stretch marks: If you’re fair-haired and have a genetic predisposition toward stretch marks, you’re more likely to get them than someone who’s darker-haired (or skinned). But no matter what your skin or hair color, you can try to keep these classic marks of maternity to a minimum by keeping your weight gain slow and steady.

Mild swelling of ankles and feet: As you get bigger and your body tissues accumulate and retain fluids, you may experience swelling in your ankles, feet, and fingers. Slipping into comfy slippers at the end of the workday can help soothe your swollen tootsies.

Hair changes: You knew your hair would grow faster and more lustrous while you were pregnant, but you probably didn’t expect it to grow in places you weren’t expecting — like your cheeks, chin, and back. Waxing is safe during pregnancy; but since skin is extra-sensitive now, ask for a formula for sensitive skin.

Shortness of breath: As your pregnant belly gets bigger, your lungs won’t be able to expand as fully, so you may feel winded, even after a trip to the bathroom. Sleeping propped on your left side can help at night, and just take it easy.

Difficulty sleeping: If you’re not worrying about your impending D-day, then leg cramps and trips to bathroom are banishing any chance of shut-eye. Try lulling yourself to sleep with a warm bath and a cup of warm milk and read a book or listen to music instead of surfing the net or watching TV (those activities can keep you up).

Leaking colostrum: As your due date approaches and the third trimester wears on, your breasts may leak colostrum — yellowish pre-milk that will be your baby’s first drink. You won’t be leaking more than a few drops, but if you feel uncomfortable, try nursing pads.

Week 33 Pregnancy Symptoms

Stronger fetal activity: You can test for fetal movement twice a day — in the morning and evening. Check the clock and start counting every wiggle, roll, kick, or flutter until you reach ten. If by the end of the hour you haven’t felt at least ten, have a snack or some juice, lie down, and resume counting. (Your baby just may have needed an energy-boost, too!)

Occasional headaches: Third-trimester fatigue can sometimes trigger headaches now, so make sure you’re getting plenty of rest. But try not to make up for loss of sleep by napping too much during the weekends — oversleeping can lead to headaches, too.

Varicose veins: Sure they’re ugly (and sometimes painful), but if you’re worried that your varicose veins can be harmful too, you can relax. The good news? If you didn’t have them before you got pregnant, they’ll disappear soon after you give birth.

Lower abdominal achiness: If your belly is aching when you change positions or get up suddenly, you could be suffering from round ligament pain (or growing pains). As long as it’s occasional and you don’t have fever, chills, or bleeding along with it, there’s nothing to worry about. Getting off your feet (and getting comfy) helps.

Nail changes: Pregnancy hormones can make nails grow faster but can also cause them to become brittle. If your nails are brittle, try getting lots of biotin in your diet (stock up on bananas, avocados, nuts, and whole grains) and try gelatin capsules, which are safe in pregnancy.

Protruding navel: Your belly button may have popped by. Is there anything you can do about it? Not really — but it will pop back in a few months after you deliver.

Shortness of breath: That burgeoning belly is pushing anything out of its way — including your lungs, which can’t fully expand. It’s more uncomfortable for you than it is for your baby, who is getting the oxygen she needs from the placenta. What helps? Standing as straight as you can so that your lungs have a little more room.

Increasing clumsiness: A bigger belly means a shift in your center of gravity and that can spell clumsiness. What to do about it? Slow down and take it easy — rushing will only make you clumsier.

Forgetfulness: That foggy brain could be caused by your baby’s gender. Strange but true: Women pregnant with girls tend to be more forgetful than those moms-to-be who are carrying boys.

Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions are most often felt by moms who’ve already gone through a pregnancy. How do you know they’re not the real thing? Even at their most intense, changing your position (from sitting to lying down, from lying down to walking around) will usually make them disappear.

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Week 32 Pregnancy Symptoms

Flatulence: To minimize that gassy feeling, aim for eating six small meals a day (versus three large ones) so that you don’t strain your digestive system (which is being taxed enough by your growing belly bearing down on it).

Bloating: Your slower metabolism (which has slowed down to give the food you eat more time to enter the bloodstream and nourish your baby) can cause bloating. Stick to your pregnancy diet and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation (see below), which aggravates bloating.

Constipation: Your growing uterus is cramping your bowels, making them sluggish and irregular. Get some regular exercise (anything helps, from brisk walks to prenatal yoga), and drink up!

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Feeling faint or light-headed can be a result of any number of things, including low blood sugar. Don’t forget to carry a protein-and-carb-rich snack in your bag to munch on when you feel dizzy. Granola bars, trail mix, or soy chips are a great choice, and may keep light-headedness at bay.

Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids, which are actually varicose veins in the rectum, can be a pain in the rear (literally!), especially if you spend a lot of time sitting. Ice packs or witch hazel can soothe, as can warm baths.

Leg cramps: Just as you’re ready to drift off to dreamland you may feel a painful spasm in your calves — though no one is quite sure what causes the pain (or why it’s worse at night). One theory: a lack of calcium and magnesium in your diet. Ask your practitioner if taking an extra calcium supplement is a good idea, and be certain you’re devouring your dose of daily dairy (bring on the cheese and yogurt!).

Itchy abdomen: That swelling belly is getting itchier and itchier, as the skin stretches and dries out. If slathering on creams and moisturizers doesn’t help, try calamine or some other type of anti-itch lotion that soothe more-stubborn cases. Or add oatmeal to your bath and have a soak in warm (not hot) water.

Enlarged breasts and colostrum: As your breasts get bigger in the third trimester, they may also leak a yellowish fluid called colostrum, which is the precursor to breast milk. This liquid, packed with protein and antibodies, is the first milk your baby will get. If the leaks are getting uncomfortable, try wearing nursing pads.

Week 31 Pregnancy Symptoms

More frequent urination: Your uterus puts more pressure on your bladder in the third trimester, giving it less room to store urine. Cut down on the bathroom trips by double voiding: Pee, then when you’re done, pee again. That’ll make sure you’ve emptied your bladder completely.

Occasional headaches: If tension is twisting your head up in knots, try spending a few minutes in a dark, quiet room. If you’re at work, close your eyes and put your feet up for 15 minutes.

Varicose veins: Your growing uterus is also putting pressure on your blood vessels, which along with pregnancy hormones and increased blood volume creates the perfect set-up for varicose veins. Take a walk (or even better, several) during the day, or make sure to get in some other form of low-key, circulation-boosting exercise.

Possible nasal congestion: As if a swollen belly, feet, and fingers weren’t enough, now you may be contending with swollen nasal passages, making for one stuffy feeling. You’ll get relief when you deliver, but until then saline sprays or nasal strips can help clear up the stuffiness. (Antihistamines and nasal sprays are usually off-limits, but check in with your practitioner for other recommendations).

Lower abdominal achiness: Blame that growing belly of yours again for those growing pains around your middle. The best thing to do? Yep, you know the drill: Get off your feet for a while.

Backaches: That burgeoning belly can also do a number on your back as it curves to accommodate the load. If you haven’t already, now is the time to incorporate some prenatal yoga into your exercise routine — the stretches will relax your back (and your mind!).

Increasing clumsiness: Your shifting posture (not to mention your increasing girth) and lack of concentration (see below) may make you clumsier these days. Take it easy when you’re climbing into the shower or tub and roll up any area rugs that could trip you up at home.

Forgetfulness: Welcome to mommy (to-be) brain — a condition that’s a result of shrinking brain-cell volume in the third trimester (don’t worry — your brain cells go back to normal a few months after delivery). Don’t stress out about your foggy memory (stress just makes it worse). Write things down (or program them into your smart phone) and delegate responsibility (if possible).

Difficulty sleeping: This is another common third-trimester woe, caused by a constellation of other conditions, such as leg cramps, heartburn, frequent urination, and plain old anxiety (with a dash of pregnancy hormones). If tension keeps you tossing and turning all night, talk it out with friends (or other WTE members) or your partner during the day.

Week 30 Pregnancy Symptoms

Stronger fetal activity: You can expect to feel your baby moving every day — sometimes with a punch or a kick (your itty-bitty boxer is getting stronger!), other times with a wiggle or a stretch. You can also expect more activity after you’ve had a snack or meal and (sadly!) when you’re lying down.

Flatulence: As your uterus expands it puts pressure on your rectum, which can weaken muscle control and lead to uncontrollable passing of gas. Drink plenty of water to avoid constipation (which aggravates the condition).

Bloating: Your expanding uterus (that third-trimester culprit) is pressing into the stomach and intestines, making that bloated feeling worse this week (and for the next several weeks). Eat smaller (and more frequent) meals to avoid overloading your digestive system.

Constipation: Even if you managed to conquer constipation earlier in your pregnancy, you may have to contend with a return to more-sluggish bowels (thank your ever-expanding uterus, which is putting pressure on your bowels). Remember that fluids and fiber are your friends, as are probiotics (you can find them in yogurts).

Occasional faintness or dizziness: It’s a common pregnancy symptom, but mention it to your practitioner (especially if you do faint). You can stop a dizzy spell by lying down and elevating your feet as soon as you feel light-headed.

Bleeding gums: Thanks to pregnancy hormones, your gums could be swollen, inflamed, and even bleeding. Although bleeding gums are common (and will probably go away after delivery), take extra-good care of your teeth and gums right now: Brush and floss twice a day.

Stretch marks: As your skin stretches to accommodate your growing belly and body, you (and 90 percent of the pregnant set) are probably starting to see the pink or red streaks known as stretch marks. There’s no miracle cure for stretch marks, so don’t blow the bucks on expensive creams that promise to make them disappear. (Creams will soothe your itchy belly, though.)

Mild swelling of ankles and feet: About 75 percent of pregnant women suffer from puffy ankles and feet. Besides wearing comfy shoes, you can relieve your swollen tootsies by taking breaks and putting your feet up. (You deserve it!)

Fatigue: Your second trimester get-up-and-go may have upped and left now. Your growing baby is putting more demands on your body, and insomnia may be leaving you pooped during the day. Now’s the time to ask for help (a skill that will come in handy after childbirth), especially doing something strenuous.


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Week 29 Pregnancy Symptoms

Constipation: Pregnancy hormones cause your muscles (including those in your bowel) to relax, which can cause your system to get backed up. One way to get on track is to eat yogurt with the probiotic acidophilus (look for yogurt brands that contain “live active cultures”) since these beneficial bacteria can aid in digestion and help get things moving.

Occasional headaches: When a headache (even a migraine) hits, alleviate pain by lying down in a quiet, dark room with a cold compress on your neck or forehead.

Hemorrhoids: If the veins in your rectum have begun to bulge and pop out (as a result of increased pressure and blood flow to the pelvic area), reduce discomfort and irritation by using gentle wipes or warm water on soft toilet paper after bowel movements and, of course, drinking lots of fluids so your stool isn't hard.

Forgetfulness: No wonder your brain feels especially foggy these days — hormones are wreaking havoc on your memory and your brain-cell volume actually decreases during the third trimester. Try not to take this temporary pregnancy symptom to heart — stressing about it will only cloud your pregnancy brain even more.

Itchy abdomen: Your stretched-out belly can cause your skin to become dry and itchy. Apply moisturizer regularly and consider soaking in a warm oatmeal bath to ease the itch.

Skin, hair, and nail changes: Even though your nails may be growing faster than ever, pregnancy hormones may also cause them to become dry and brittle. Trim them regularly.

Difficulty sleeping: If heartburn is keeping you up at night, avoid eating too much and chowing down too close to bedtime. Also, avoid coffee or chocolate in the evening since these energizers will make it harder for you to get to sleep.


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Week 27 Pregnancy Symptoms

Flatulence: Your growing uterus may be putting extra pressure on your rectum, causing you to lose some control over the muscles in your rear. Add your sluggish digestive system to the equation (thanks to pregnancy hormones that relax intestinal muscles) and you may find that you’re particularly gassy. Try to eat six small meals a day (instead of three large ones) so you don’t overtax your digestive system.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: If you thought your days of feeling light-headed were over after your first trimester, think again; for some women, that bulging belly puts pressure on blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the brain and causes dizziness. Keep blood circulating and pumping to your brain by drinking plenty of water each day.

Possible nasal congestion: High levels of estrogen and progesterone increase blood flow to the mucous membranes in your nose, causing them to swell. If your stuffy nose is making it hard for you to breathe at night — or making you snore — try wearing a nasal strip at bedtime to open up your nostrils.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS): For some expectant women, it may feel as if their legs take on a life of their own — tingling and jittery — especially when they lie down at night. Talk to your practitioner about this (in some women RLS is linked to iron-deficiency anemia or a sensitivity to certain foods), and consider yoga or other relaxation techniques, which may help.

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): This weird pregnancy symptom develops when the hormone relaxin makes the ligaments in your pelvic joint too relaxed and stretchy, causing the pelvic joint to become unstable. If this is causing you pain, ask your practitioner about wearing a pelvic support belt (available online), which stabilizes the ligaments and helps keep the pelvic joint in place.

Bleeding gums: Inflamed and irritated gums are quite common during pregnancy since ramped-up hormones may cause gums to swell and leave your mouth more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque. When you brush your teeth, remember to brush your tongue as well to minimize the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

Skin, hair, and nail changes: Pregnancy hormones can cause hyperpigmentation of the skin — particularly if you have darker skin to begin with. This can result in darker freckles or moles, a dark line down the center of your tummy (linea nigra), or patches of darkened skin on your face (called chloasma). Don’t worry, most discolorations fade a few months after giving birth — just do your best to stay in the shade since sunlight can intensity hyperpigmentation.


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Week 26 Pregnancy Symptoms

Bloating: Your expanding uterus continues to put more and more pressure on your stomach and intestines, resulting in the bloating you probably feel. Minimize the problem by eating several small meals a day instead of three large ones so that you don’t overload your digestive system.

Increased vaginal discharge: If you’re tempted to use special washes and wipes marketed to keep the vagina clean or odor-free, don’t bother. They can be irritating and change the pH in your genital tract. Instead, bathe frequently and wear panty liners (if you like) to stay clean and dry.

Occasional headaches: Some women who have a history of migraines have them more often when they’re pregnant (some lucky ducks experience fewer of them), so don’t be surprised if yours flare up more these days. Since strong migraine medications are probably off-limits for you now, consider holistic therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, massage, meditation, and yoga (these techniques can also help reduce stress, which is a migraine trigger).

Forgetfulness: Has “pregnancy brain” caused you to forget some crucial meetings or bits of information lately? While this decrease in memory is temporary and totally normal, try writing key things down in a trusty notepad or your PDA to help you stay organized for the rest of your pregnancy.

Clumsiness: Your loosened joints, shifted center of gravity, and added weight are just a few of the factors that cause you to slip, trip, and fall more often than usual. This clumsiness is temporary, but for now, be extra careful in the tub, shower, and on other slippery surfaces.

Lower abdominal achiness: If the “growing pains” caused by your expanding uterus (technically called round ligament pain) are feeling particularly achy lately, get off your feet when you can and get as comfortable as possible. Also, remember to shift positions slowly so as not to aggravate the pain.

Vision changes: If your eyes are feeling irritated, that’s probably because pregnancy hormones decrease tear production, which leads to dry eyes. Use eye drops to ease the discomfort, and be sure to tell your practitioner if you develop serious vision problems since this could be a sign of gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.


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Week 25 Pregnancy Symptoms

Heartburn or indigestion: Does it feel as if stomach acids are burning up your esophagus and setting fire to your chest? Always have some Tums or Rolaids nearby so you can cool your heartburn as soon as it strikes.

Snoring: Snoring is quite common during pregnancy since increased blood flow to mucous membranes in your nose can cause congestion. But if you find your snoring is seriously interfering with your sleep, this could be a sign that you have sleep apnea (which can deprive you of oxygen) — so ask your practitioner about it.

Tingling hands (carpal tunnel): Increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause swelling that puts pressure on nerves in the wrists, resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome. Ask your practitioner about wearing wrist braces, or consider trying acupuncture to alleviate the pain and tingling.

Varicose veins: The extra blood volume you produce during pregnancy also puts pressure on your blood vessels and causes them to bulge, resulting in varicose veins. Help keep blood circulating by avoiding clothes that are binding.

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): If you’re feeling pain in the pelvic area, you may be experiencing SPD, caused by relaxed and stretchy ligaments that normally keep your pelvic joint (the symphysis pubis) aligned. Stay on top of your Kegel exercises and pelvic tilts, which will strengthen the muscles in that region, and if pain is severe, ask your practitioner for a referral to a physical therapist.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS): As if you didn’t have enough to worry about with tingling hands, you may also feel a tingling in your legs accompanied by an urge to move them. Ask your practitioner to test you for iron-deficiency anemia since some experts think it’s linked to RLS; keep a food journal too — some women find that a sensitivity to certain foods makes symptoms worse.

Skin, hair, and nail changes: Because normal daily hair loss is suppressed by pregnancy hormones, you may notice that your hair feels thicker and more lustrous than ever before. Enjoy it now — after delivery, all the hair that didn’t fall out during pregnancy will shed.


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Week 24 Pregnancy Symptoms

Constipation: There is a good reason for pregnancy constipation — pregnancy hormones cause intestinal muscles to relax in order to keep food in your digestive system longer so you and your baby can absorb more nutrients. But just because it's for a good cause, that doesn’t make it pleasant. Drink lots of water and fruit and vegetable juices to get things moving faster through your system and to soften your stool, making it easier to pass.

Occasional headaches: If you find that your headaches last for days, are severe, and are sometimes accompanied by nausea or vision changes, you may have migraines. Let your practitioner know about your migraines and keep a journal recording what you ate, where you were, and what you were doing before you experienced a migraine so that you can pinpoint your migraine triggers — and start to avoid them.

Lower abdominal achiness: As your uterus continues to expand, the ligaments that support your uterus continue to stretch — and may cause some pain. Occasional achiness in this area is normal, but if the discomfort is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, or bleeding, see your practitioner.

Backaches: Back pain is quite common during pregnancy, but if your discomfort is severe, ask your practitioner to refer you to a specialist such as a physical therapist or acupuncturist.

Leg cramps: When leg cramps start to cramp your style, try straightening your leg and gently flexing your ankle and toes up toward your shins several times. This can stop the spasm.

Vision changes: Are your contact lenses bothering you lately — or is your vision sometimes blurry? Pregnancy hormones can decrease tear production (causing eye irritation) and increase fluid buildup in the eye, temporarily altering your vision. This should pass shortly after delivery, so don’t go out and get any new eyeglass or contact-lens prescriptions while you’re expecting.

Mild swelling of ankles and feet: Don’t be alarmed if the swelling in your feet has caused you to “grow” out of your favorite shoes. Simply do what you can to avoid letting body fluids (which increase during pregnancy) pool in your legs — so that means elevating your legs when you’re sitting.


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Week 23 Pregnancy Symptoms

Fetal activity: You may be getting used to feeling your baby’s movements in the womb. Cherish these light kicks now before they get more pronounced (and painful) and before your little mover and shaker gets a foot caught in your ribs!

Hearty appetite: It’s perfectly normal to find yourself wanting to devour the contents of your kitchen cabinets and fridge (you have a growing baby to feed!). So try to stock your home with healthy snacks such as fruit, cut-up veggies, nuts, and whole-wheat crackers.

Bloating: If you can’t seem to shake that ate-too-much feeling, you’re experiencing the effects of progesterone. The hormone causes the gastrointestinal tract to relax and slow down digestion, so that the nutrients from the foods you eat have more time to enter your bloodstream and reach your baby. Help keep things moving through your system (and out of your already bulging belly) by drinking plenty of water.

Forgetfulness: Are you consistently forgetting your keys, appointments, and where you parked the car? “Pregnancy brain” is likely caused by those pesky pregnancy hormones — and since it’s completely normal (and temporary), try to laugh it off and refrain from being too hard on yourself.

Snoring: This fairly common (and annoying) pregnancy symptom can disrupt your sleep and your partner’s. Partly due to nasal congestion (caused by extra weight and swollen mucous membranes in your nose), you can alleviate the nighttime nasal noises by wearing a nasal strip at bedtime and running a warm-mist humidifier in your bedroom.

Tingling hands (carpal tunnel): Swelling during pregnancy can put pressure on nerves in the wrists and cause the aching and tingling associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. If you work at a computer all day, take frequent hand-stretching breaks and make sure your wrists are straight and your elbows aren't higher than your hands when you’re at your desk.

Bleeding gums: Reduce irritation to your gums (which are swelling more than usual these days due to hormones), by avoiding chewy sweets, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist at least once while you’re expecting.


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Week 22 Pregnancy Symptoms

Heartburn or indigestion: Your growing uterus is starting to take over your abdominal cavity, which can help push gastric acids from your stomach up through your esophagus — resulting in the burning pain you may feel. Avoid aggravating heartburn by drinking before and after meals instead of with them (too much fluid mixed with too much food will distend the stomach and make heartburn worse).

Constipation: That growing uterus is also putting pressure on your bowels, making it harder to move waste out of your system. Give things a jump start by exercising regularly, which encourages bowel movements.

Increased vaginal discharge: If you’re finding your vaginal discharge to be heavy these days, remember to keep clean and dry (if you like, use a panty liner), which will help prevent the odors that sometimes accompany this pregnancy symptom.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your ever-expanding uterus can put pressure on your blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to your brain and cause light-headedness. Help keep your blood pumping through your circulatory system by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day (more if it’s hot or you’re working out).

Leg cramps: Some experts theorize that leg cramps during pregnancy may be caused by a shortage of calcium or magnesium in the diet. Reduce the frequency of these painful spasms by taking your prenatal vitamin daily.

Stretch marks: Noticing stretch marks not just on your belly but also on your hips, thighs, and breasts as well? Go ahead and rub moisturizer all over your body — it may not be a miracle cure, but it’s worth a shot and it will help ease dryness and itchiness.

Protruding navel: Not loving your new outie belly button? After delivery it will revert back to an innie — but be prepared for the fact that you will probably be left with a slightly larger belly button.


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Week 21 Pregnancy Symptoms

Fetal movement: By now you may be able to feel your baby twisting, turning, and kicking in the womb (though many new expectant moms mistake the feeling for gas). Enjoy these first gentle love taps — soon enough your growing baby’s kicks will get more aggressive.

Hearty appetite: Are you always in the mood to eat? Carry healthy snacks with you (such as nuts, raisins, trail mix, or granola bars) so that you’ll have nutritious fuel to keep you and your baby-to-be nourished even when you’re on the go.

Flatulence: The increasing pressure your uterus is placing on your rectum can mean that you’re having a hard time containing yourself (your gas, that is). Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods to avoid becoming constipated, which can make gassiness worse.

Varicose veins: The extra blood volume and weight you’re carrying around can put pressure on your circulatory system and lead to the swollen blood vessels called varicose veins. Do your best to keep your weight gain to a healthy minimum to avoid putting undue stress on your circulatory system.

Backaches: Not only is your center of gravity shifting and putting extra strain on your back, but the hormone relaxin is also causing your ligaments and joints to stretch and loosen, which means additional achiness in your back. If you can, splurge for a prenatal massage from a trained professional.

Bleeding gums: If your inflamed, bleeding gums are turning your toothbrush pink, avoid eating sticky candies, especially when you can’t brush afterward. The sweet stuff increases bacteria in your mouth and further irritates your gums.

Skin, hair, and nail changes: Have you noticed that your hair and nails are growing at record speed? Pregnancy hormones are partly the cause — as is the increased circulation in your body, bringing extra nutrients to your hair and nails (and to your baby, of course).


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Week 20 Pregnancy Symptoms

Heartburn or indigestion: If you’re looking for a simple heartburn fix, try chewing a piece of sugarless gum after meals. The increased saliva it produces neutralizes gastric acids and helps force fluids back into the stomach.

Increased vaginal discharge: As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll notice an increase in vaginal discharge. While it can be uncomfortable, this discharge actually helps protect the birth canal from infection and maintains a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Occasional headaches: Do you find that your headaches crop up when you’re overheated, in windowless, stuffy spaces, or under fluorescent lighting? Be sure to take fresh-air breaks outside a few times a day, and dress in layers to avoid getting too hot, which could trigger a headache.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Stuffy, hot rooms can be the cause of light-headedness (not just headaches), especially when your body is already generating lots of heat with that little bun you’re cooking in your oven. Stay cool by taking frequent breaks for fresh air and wearing loose-fitting clothes.

Leg cramps: Experts aren’t clear on what causes leg cramps during pregnancy, but one theory is that they are caused by compressed blood vessels in the legs (a consequence of extra weight and swelling). Help the blood circulate throughout your body more easily — and minimize cramping — by putting your feet up when you can and drinking plenty of fluids.

Mild swelling of ankles and feet: If water retention in your ankles and feet is causing you pain, be sure to wear comfy (not tight!) shoes while you’re out, and switch into slippers when you get home. Also, avoid tight socks or pantyhose that can cut off blood flow — you want to keep fluids flowing freely to minimize swelling in your lower extremities.

Protruding navel: Your cute little innie belly button may suddenly morph into an outie as your uterus pushes your abdomen forward. If you don’t like the new look, don’t worry — your navel will go back to being an innie after delivery.


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Week 19 Pregnancy Symptoms

Hearty appetite: Having a hard time staying away from the fridge (and cupboards and pantry)? Keep tempting junk foods out of the house, and instead fill your kitchen with nutritious goodies — but do occasionally allow yourself to indulge in sinful treats so that you don’t end up bingeing on them.

Constipation: If you can’t seem to get regular, take a look at your supplements and medications; some of them, such as iron, can make constipation worse. Ask your practitioner to help you come up with some alternatives until your digestive system gets back on track.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Your growing uterus may put pressure on your blood vessels (among other parts of your body), reducing blood flow to your brain and causing you to feel light-headed. Even though dizziness is common, don’t ignore it — take it easy and sit or lie down as soon as you start to feel woozy so that you don’t hurt yourself or the baby.

Possible nasal congestion: Is the swelling in your nasal passages making it hard for you to breathe? Here’s how to blow your nose without damaging nasal membranes and causing a nosebleed: Use your thumb to close one nostril, and blow gently out the other side.

Lower abdominal achiness: The ligaments that support your uterus are getting stretched as your uterus expands — which can cause lower abdominal achiness (or round ligament pain). Try to make yourself as comfortable as possible — and avoid changing positions suddenly because this can trigger pain.

Backaches: As your uterus grows, you may find your center of gravity shifting forward, putting extra pressure on your lower back. Avoid straining your back further by letting others lift heavy loads for you. If you absolutely must lift something, stabilize yourself by assuming a wide stance, bend at the knees (not at the waist), and slowly lift with your arms and legs, not your back.

Stretch marks: About 90 percent of women develop stretch marks during pregnancy, so you’re not alone. While there is no proven cure, moisturizers such as cocoa butter can help ease the dryness and itching associated with stretched skin.


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Week 18 Pregnancy Symptoms

Fetal movement: If you’ve noticed an unusual rumbling in your tummy these days, you may be starting to feel your baby’s movements in the womb! But don’t worry if you haven’t felt anything out of the ordinary — it may take a few more weeks for you to pinpoint those first kicks.

Flatulence: Finding it hard to contain the gas bubbles? Try to relax — tension can cause you to swallow air and add to the problem.

Varicose veins: If the varicose veins in your legs are starting to itch or ache, consider wearing support hose, which applies pressure to the legs and give blood a little upward push toward your heart. Put them on before you get out of bed in the morning to prevent the blood from pooling.

Leg cramps: As if it weren’t enough that your precious sleep is interrupted by trips to the bathroom to pee, now you may find yourself suddenly woken up during the night by shooting spasms in your calves. Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes them, but you can help fend them off by doing calf stretches before hitting the sack.

Bleeding gums: Those pesky pregnancy hormones cause mucous membranes in your body (including those in your mouth) to swell, which can mean inflamed, irritated, and bleeding gums. Continue to floss and brush regularly, but try not to be too aggressive in your technique since this can further aggravate sensitive gums.

Stretch marks: If the appearance of a new stretch mark has got you feeling down, here’s an activity that may cheer you up — get your partner to rub moisturizing lotion over your belly. And maybe even get him to give you a massage while he’s at it!

Mild swelling of ankles and feet: As your body tissues accumulate fluid (your pregnant body requires extra fluid to support you and your baby), you may notice swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid tends to pool there thanks to the law of gravity). Reduce water retention in your feet by avoiding standing or sitting for long periods — and try to keep your legs elevated when you can.

Skin, hair, and nail changes: While you may have been hoping for a pregnancy “glow,” you may have gotten eczema, redness, or acne instead. These skin conditions are perfectly normal during pregnancy (blame those hormones again), but if you choose to see a dermatologist, be sure to mention that you’re expecting. Some skin medications like Accutane and Retin-A are not safe during pregnancy.


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Week 17 Pregnancy Symptoms

Increasing appetite: Does your appetite seem insatiable these days? That’s because your growing baby is demanding more nourishment. Listen to your hunger pangs and eat when you need to; try to choose foods that fill you up and meet your nutrient needs (high-fiber grains, produce, and lean protein).

Heartburn or indigestion: If you find yourself feeling the burn after a big meal, avoid lying down after eating to keep gastric juices in the stomach where they belong.

Flatulence: As your uterus expands and puts pressure on your rectum, you may find it harder to control the muscles in that area — which can lead to some gassy outbursts. One way to reduce the gas: Eat slowly (eating too quickly can cause you to swallow air, which can form gas pockets in your belly).

Occasional headaches: Whether hormones, fatigue, tension, or some other culprit causes your headaches, it’s usually okay to take acetaminophen during pregnancy to alleviate the pain. But check with your practitioner first.

Occasional faintness or dizziness: Dehydration can cause dizziness, so make sure you stay hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day (aim to drink more than that if you’ve been exercising).

Backaches: Ease this common pregnancy symptom by making sure you have a supportive chair at work and a firm mattress at home. Otherwise, get a cushion for your chair to place behind your back so you can keep your posture in line, and place a board underneath your mattress to firm it up.

Stretch marks: This badge of pregnancy is hereditary, so if you start finding some stretch marks on your body, it may be because your mother had them too. But if you gain weight at a steady rate (instead of in big spurts), this may keep the stretching gradual and, as a result, less extreme.


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Week 16 Pregnancy Symptoms

Continued breast growth: Feeling overwhelmed by your ever-growing breasts? Don’t worry — after giving birth and weaning (if you choose to breastfeed) your boobs should return to about their prepregnancy size (give or take a few jiggles).

Constipation: Besides those pregnancy hormones causing your gastrointestinal tract to get sluggish, your expanding uterus is now putting pressure on your bowels, which can back things up significantly. Try increasing the amount of liquid you drink to keep everything moving along.

Increased vaginal discharge: Though vaginal discharge is actually beneficial to your body (it protects the birth canal from infection), it may not feel comfortable. Don’t be tempted to try douches or feminine wipes, however, since they can irritate the genital tract and lead to infection.

Varicose veins: One way to minimize the swollen blood vessels in your legs? Keep your weight gain healthy and gradual (and stick within the recommended range) because extra weight increases the load on your circulatory system.

Possible nasal congestion: Pregnancy hormones cause the mucous membranes in the body to swell, including those in your nose. If this leads to nasal congestion, irritation, and even nosebleeds, saline nasal sprays and nasal strips can offer some relief.

Backaches: As your belly gets bigger, your lower back curves more than usual to accommodate the load, resulting in strained back muscles. Try to soothe these sore muscles by getting a prenatal massage (even from your partner) or taking a warm bath or shower.

Bleeding gums: Have you noticed that your gums are bleeding after brushing? That’s because pregnancy hormones are causing gum inflammation, making them more susceptible to bacteria, irritation, and bleeding. While this is normal, it’s important to keep flossing and brushing regularly. Also see the dentist at least once during pregnancy to avoid gum disease, which can cause pregnancy complications if untreated.


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