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Pregnancy & Baby

  • Bonding With Your Baby

    Bonding, the intense attachment that develops between you and your baby, is completely natural. And it's probably one of the most pleasurable aspects of infant care.

  • Choosing Safe Toys for Babies

    All toys you select for your baby or toddler should meet safety standards. These tips can help you find safe toys for your little one.

  • Learning, Play, and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old

    Kids go from babies to toddlers during this time, from first steps to walking well. They also make major strides in language and communication.

  • Learning, Play, and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old

    After learning to recognize your voice, your face, and your touch, your baby will start responding more to you during these months and even give you a smile!

  • Learning, Play, and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old

    Your infant will learn to sit during this time, and in the next few months will begin exploring by reaching out for objects, grasping and inspecting them.

  • Learning, Play, and Your Newborn

    Play is the primary way that infants learn how to move, communicate, socialize, and understand their surroundings. And during the first month of life, your baby will learn by interacting with you.

  • Reading Books to Babies

    Reading aloud to your baby stimulates developing senses, and builds listening and memory skills that can help your baby grow up to be a reader.

  • Apnea of Prematurity

    Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is a condition in which premature infants stop breathing for more than 15 to 20 seconds during sleep. AOP usually goes away on its own as a baby matures.

  • Birth Defects

    Some birth defects are minor and cause no problems. Others can be serious and require lifelong treatment.

  • Bringing Your Premature Baby Home

    If you're about to begin caring for your preemie at home, try to relax. With some preparation and planning, you'll be ready.

  • Caring for Your Premature Baby at Home

    Here’s what you need to know about keeping your baby safe and healthy over the next few weeks.

  • Cesarean Sections (C-Sections)

    Many babies are delivered via cesarean sections. Learn why and how C-sections are done.

  • Choosing a Pediatrician for Your New Baby

    Along with considering baby names and buying a crib, choosing the right health care provider should be on your to-do list when you're expecting.

  • Circumcision

    You have a decision to make before you take your newborn son home: whether to circumcise him. Before deciding, talk to your doctor and consider the issues.

  • Cleft Lip

    A cleft lip is when a baby's lip doesn't form properly during pregnancy. Most kids can have surgery to repair one early in life.

  • Cleft Palate

    A cleft palate is when a baby is born with a cleft (gap) in the roof of the mouth. Most kids can have surgery to repair them early in life.

  • Cleft Palate With Cleft Lip

    A cleft palate with a cleft lip is when a baby's lip and palate (roof of mouth) don't form properly during pregnancy. Most kids with cleft lip and palate are treated successfully with no lasting problems.

  • Common Questions About Vaccines

    Vaccines protect kids from potentially deadly diseases. Learn about what they are, how they work, and what they do.

  • Congenital Cataracts

    A baby with congenital cataracts has clouding in one or both eyes. Doctors do surgery to treat them.

  • Congenital Hypothyroidism

    Some babies are born with a thyroid gland that didn't develop correctly or doesn't work as it should. This is called congenital hypothyroidism.

  • COVID-19: How to Protect Babies

    Here's how parents can help protect their babies from COVID-19.

  • Craniosynostosis

    Craniosynostosis is when seams between bones in the skull close too soon. When this happens, the skull can’t expand grow as it should, and it develops an unusual shape.

  • Diapering Your Baby

    Babies may use up to 10 diapers a day! Get the basics on how to diaper like a pro.

  • Erythema Toxicum

    Erythema toxicum is a common rash seen in full-term newborns. No treatment is needed and it goes away on its own.

  • Fetal Lung Mass

    A fetal lung mass is an unusual lump that grows inside or next to an unborn baby’s lung. Some are treated before birth, while others are removed after the baby is born.

  • Gastroschisis

    Gastroschisis is when a baby is born with the intestines, and sometimes other organs, sticking out through a hole in the belly wall near the umbilical cord.

  • Getting the Most From a Doctor's Visit

    Here are tips on the best ways to communicate with your child's doctor and get the most information during a visit.

  • Getting to Know Your Newborn

    When you first meet your newborn, you may be surprised by what you see. Here's what to expect.

  • Health Screening Tests

    Health screening tests are routine tests that check for problems before signs show up. When problems are found early, the care is often simpler and may work better.

  • Hernias

    Hernias are fairly common in kids, and hernia repair is one of the most common pediatric surgeries.

  • How Can I Comfort My Baby During Shots?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • How Can I Tell if My Baby Is Constipated?

    A baby probably isn't constipated if their stool (poop) is soft, no matter how often the bowel movements happen or if the baby strains to pass them.

  • How Vaccines Help (Video)

    Vaccines help keep kids healthy, but many parents still have questions about them. Get answers here.

  • I'm Pregnant. How Can I Avoid Having My Baby Early?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • If Your Baby Has a Birth Defect

    If your child has a birth defect, you don't have to go it alone - many people and resources are available to help you.

  • Immunization Schedule

    Which vaccines does your child need and when? Use this immunization schedule as a handy reference.

  • Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Newborns

    An intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is bleeding in and around the brain’s ventricles. Most babies with a mild IVH do well.

  • Jaundice in Newborns

    Jaundice is when a baby has yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Most types of jaundice go away on their own.

  • Laundering Your Baby's Clothes

    Once a baby arrives, it can seem as if the laundry doubles! Many parents think they need to use baby detergent to clean their baby's clothes, but in most cases, this isn't necessary.

  • Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS)

    Meconium aspiration can happen before, during, or after labor and delivery when a newborn inhales a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid. Although it can be serious, most cases are not.

  • Medical Care and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old

    The toddler months might continue to bring colds, bruises, and other minor emergencies, but you'll also find yourself dealing with your toddler's emerging independence.

  • Medical Care and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old

    You probably have lots of questions about your baby's health. When should you call the doctor, and what medical care should you expect for your baby at this age?

  • Medical Care and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old

    Because your baby begins to show their personality during these months, your questions might focus on physical and social development.

  • Medical Care and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old

    As your baby becomes more independent, you may have questions about how to prevent bumps and bruises. Here are some other topics you'll cover with your doctor.

  • Medical Care and Your Newborn

    You'll see your baby's doctor often during your little one's first year. Here's what to expect right after your baby arrives.

  • Medical Care During Pregnancy

    The sooner in pregnancy good care begins, the better for the health of both moms and their babies. Here's what to expect.

  • Miscarriages

    Miscarriages are common, and in most cases aren't preventable. But you can take steps to increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

  • Necrotizing Enterocolitis

    Necrotizing enterocolitis is an intestinal disease that usually affects preemies. Medicines and therapy can help babies with NEC.

  • Newborn Brachial Plexus Injuries

    During childbirth, a brachial plexus injury can happen if the baby's neck is stretched to one side.

  • Newborn Screening Tests

    Newborn screening tests look for health conditions that aren't apparent at birth. Find out which tests are done.

  • Omphalocele

    A baby born with an omphalocele has an opening where the umbilical cord goes into the belly. Some openings close on their own, but many need treatment, including surgery.

  • Orofacial Clefts

    A cleft is when tissues of the mouth or lip don't form properly when a baby is developing in the womb. The good news is that orofacial clefts are treatable.

  • Postpartum Depression

    It's important for new mothers – and those who love them – to understand the symptoms of postpartum depression and reach out to family, friends, and medical professionals for help.

  • Prenatal Test: Multiple Marker Test

    The multiple marker test is a blood test done to screen for neural tube defects and chromosomal disorders.

  • Prenatal Test: Ultrasound

    A prenatal ultrasound is a safe and painless test that shows a baby's shape and position. It can be done in the first, second, or third trimester of pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Tests: FAQs

    Every parent-to-be hopes for a healthy baby, but it can be hard not to worry. Find out what tests can keep you informed of your health — and your baby's — throughout pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Tests: Second Trimester

    Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 13 through 26 of pregnancy.

  • Pyloric Stenosis

    Pyloric stenosis can make a baby vomit forcefully and often. It can lead to serious problems like dehydration, and needs medical treatment right away.

  • Questions to Ask When Your Baby's in the NICU

    Having a newborn in the NICU can be a stressful time. Often, parents forget to ask important questions. This list can help you prepare for the next time you talk to your baby's care team.

  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome

    Sometimes when babies are born premature, they have trouble breathing. This can be caused by respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Learn what RDS is, and how babies can be helped.

  • Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

    Retinopathy of prematurity, which can happen in premature babies, causes abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Some children will need surgery to prevent vision loss or blindness.

  • Rh Incompatibility During Pregnancy

    If you just found out you're pregnant, one of the first tests you should expect is a blood-type test. This basic test determines your blood type and Rh factor, which may play an important role in your baby's health.

  • Spina Bifida Occulta

    In spina bifida occulta, a baby is born with a gap in the spine's bones, but the spinal cord and its covering do not push through it.

  • Submucous Cleft Palate

    In a submucous cleft palate, the muscles of the palate don't form properly, but the tissue that lines the roof of the mouth does. This makes these clefts harder to see.

  • Torticollis in Infants

    Babies with this condition have trouble turning their heads, due to muscle tightness. Simple stretching exercises and physical therapy can help babies get better.

  • Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN)

    For some newborns, the first few breaths of life may be faster and more labored than normal because of a lung condition called transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN).

  • Trimming Your Baby's Nails

    Cutting your little one's nails can be a bit scary. Here's how to do it safely.

  • Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism)

    Shortly before birth, a boy's testicles usually descend into the scrotum. When a testicle doesn't make the move, this is called cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles.

  • What Is the Apgar Score?

    The Apgar score is the very first test given to a newborn, done right after birth in the delivery or birthing room.

  • What to Do About Diaper Rash

    Diaper rash is a common skin condition in babies. In most cases, the condition clears up quickly with a few simple changes.

  • When Your Baby's in the NICU

    Learn what a NICU visit will be like for your little one, what you can do to help, and how to find support for yourself.

  • Why Do Newborns Need a Vitamin K Shot?

    Newborns need a dose of vitamin K at birth. Here's why.

  • Your Baby's Care Team in the NICU

    If your baby is getting medical care in you NICU, find out who will be caring for your baby and how they can help.

  • Your Child's Checkup: 1 Month

    Find out what this doctor's visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the first month.

  • Your Child's Checkup: 2 Months

    Find out what this doctor's visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the second month.

  • Your Child's Checkup: 3 to 5 Days

    Find out what this doctor's checkup will involve a few days after your baby is born.

  • Your Child's Checkup: 4 Months

    Find out what this doctor's visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the fourth month.

  • Your Child's Checkup: 6 Months

    Find out what this doctor's visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by 6 months.

  • Your Child's Checkup: Newborn

    Find out what this doctor's checkup will involve after your baby arrives.

  • Your Child's Immunizations

    Immunizations protect kids from many dangerous diseases. Find out what vaccines your child needs to grow up healthy.

  • 10 Things That Might Surprise You About Being Pregnant

    Here are 10 common surprises that can come with pregnancy.

  • 5 Things to Know About Zika and Pregnancy

    Zika virus, spread by mosquitoes, is the cause of a serious birth defect. Here are 5 things to know about Zika and pregnancy.

  • 5 Ways to Prevent Early Labor (Slideshow)

    It's best for babies not to be born before they're due. Learn what you can do to prevent early labor.

  • A Guide for First-Time Parents

    If you're a new parent, get the basics in this guide about burping, bathing, bonding, and other baby-care concerns.

  • A Week-by-Week Pregnancy Calendar

    Our week-by-week illustrated pregnancy calendar is a detailed guide to all the changes taking place in your baby - and in you!

  • Air Travel During Pregnancy

    Most healthy pregnant women can fly up to 4 weeks before their due date. After that, it's best to stay close to home in case you deliver.

  • Alcohol Use During Pregnancy

    It's always wise to be cautious and not drink any alcohol at all during pregnancy. Here's why.

  • Are Vaccines Safe During Pregnancy?

    Be sure to talk to your doctor before getting any vaccination during pregnancy. It's best to wait until after your pregnancy for most vaccines, but a few are considered safe.

  • Are You in Labor?

    Here's how to tell the difference between true labor and false labor -- and when to get medical care.

  • Avoiding Lead Exposure During Pregnancy

    Lead is toxic and especially harmful for a developing fetus. Fortunately, exposure to high lead levels is rare in the United States.

  • Birth Plans

    The reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off - but now's the time to start planning for your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes.

  • Birthing Centers and Hospital Maternity Services

    Where you choose to give birth is an important decision. Is a hospital or a birth center right for you? Knowing the facts can help you make your decision.

  • Bringing Your Baby Home

    Whether your baby comes home from the hospital right away, arrives later, or comes through an adoption agency, homecoming is a major event.

  • Can I Have a Vaginal Birth If I Had a Previous C-Section?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Can Pregnant Women Do Anything to Reduce or Prevent Swollen Ankles?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Cesarean Sections (C-Sections)

    Many babies are delivered via cesarean sections. Learn why and how C-sections are done.

  • Coffee and Caffeine Use During Pregnancy

    It's usually OK to have 1 or 2 cups of coffee during pregnancy, but it's best to not have more than that. Find out more.

  • Cord Blood Banking

    Should you bank your newborn's cord blood? This article can help you decide.

  • COVID-19: Pregnancy FAQs

    We've learned a lot about about COVID-19. Here are some answers to questions about the virus and pregnancy.

  • Dealing With Pain During Childbirth

    Learning all you can about childbirth pain is one of the best ways to help you deal with it when the time comes.

  • Drinking Tap Water During Pregnancy

    Bottled water might taste better or different than tap water, but it isn’t necessarily any safer during pregnancy.

  • Eating During Pregnancy

    To eat well during pregnancy, your extra calories should come from nutritious foods that contribute to your baby's growth and development.

  • Ectopic Pregnancy

    In an ectopic pregnancy, a fertilized egg has implanted outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. If undiagnosed, as the pregnancy grows, it can burst the organ that contains it and endanger the mother's life.

  • Epidurals

    Epidurals can make giving birth more calm, controlled, and comfortable. Find out more.

  • Exercising During Pregnancy

    Most women benefit greatly from exercising throughout their pregnancies. But during that time, you'll need to make a few changes to your normal exercise routine.

  • Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

    If a woman drinks alcohol during her pregnancy, her baby could be born with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), which causes a wide range of physical, behavioral, and learning problems.

  • Folic Acid and Pregnancy

    One of the most important ways to help prevent serious birth defects is for moms to get enough folic acid every day - especially before conception and during early pregnancy.

  • Food Safety During Pregnancy

    Find out which foods and drinks to avoid during pregnancy.

  • Gestational Diabetes

    Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that comes on during pregnancy. When a woman has it, her blood sugar levels are high. That makes the unborn baby's blood sugar levels higher too.

  • Getting X-Rays During Pregnancy

    If you're pregnant and need to get an X-ray, it's highly unlikely that low levels of X-ray radiation will be harmful.

  • Group B Strep and Pregnancy

    Women who have this common but potentially dangerous bacteria while pregnant get antibiotics during labor to avoid passing the bacteria to their babies.

  • High-Impact Exercising During Pregnancy

    Most moms-to-be benefit greatly from exercising. But there are some types to avoid during pregnancy.

  • How Can I Deal With Heartburn During Pregnancy?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • How Can I Relieve My Pregnancy Leg Cramps?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • I'm Pregnant. How Can I Avoid Having My Baby Early?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Inducing Labor

    Find out why doctors may induce labor if you're past your due date, how it may be done, and how it may affect you and your baby.

  • Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

    Intrauterine growth restriction is when a baby in the womb doesn't grow at the expected rate during the pregnancy. Women with IUGR should eat a healthy diet; get enough sleep; and avoid alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.

  • Is it Safe to Clean a Cat's Litter Box During Pregnancy?

    During pregnancy, it's best to have someone else clean kitty's litter box. Here's why.

  • Medical Care During Pregnancy

    The sooner in pregnancy good care begins, the better for the health of both moms and their babies. Here's what to expect.

  • Miscarriages

    Miscarriages are common, and in most cases aren't preventable. But you can take steps to increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

  • Natural Childbirth

    Some women choose to give birth using no medications at all, relying instead on relaxation techniques and controlled breathing for pain. Get more information on natural childbirth.

  • Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)

    Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is when a baby has withdrawal from a medicine or drug the mom took while she was pregnant.

  • Postpartum Depression

    It's important for new mothers – and those who love them – to understand the symptoms of postpartum depression and reach out to family, friends, and medical professionals for help.

  • Pregnancy Precautions

    There can be a lot of questions about what's safe during pregnancy. Find out what's OK and what you should avoid before your baby is born.

  • Pregnancy Slideshow (Baby)

    This week‑by‑week pregnancy calendar shows you some of the important developments taking place as your baby grows.

  • Pregnancy Slideshow (Mom & Baby)

    Here's a peek at what's going on inside your body during the amazing 40 weeks of pregnancy. Watch your belly — and your baby — grow!

  • Pregnant or Breastfeeding? Nutrients You Need

    Learn which nutrients you need while pregnant or breastfeeding, and easy ways to add them to your diet.

  • Prenatal Test: Amniocentesis

    In amniocentesis, doctors take a sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds a baby to check for signs of problems such as chromosomal disorders, genetic problems, and neural tube defects

  • Prenatal Test: Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

    A chorionic villus sampling (CVS) checks cells from the placenta for chromosomal abnormalities. Most women whose pregnancies are not high-risk don't need this test.

  • Prenatal Test: Contraction Stress Test

    A contraction stress test measures the fetal heart rate to ensure that a baby can handle contractions during labor.

  • Prenatal Test: First Trimester Screening

    The first trimester screening (or first trimester screen) includes a blood test and an ultrasound exam. It's done to see if a fetus is at risk for a chromosomal abnormality or birth defect.

  • Prenatal Test: Glucose Screening

    Glucose screenings check for gestational diabetes, a short-term form of diabetes that some women develop during pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Test: Nonstress Test

    This test checks to see if the baby responds normally to stimulation and is getting enough oxygen. It's done to check on the health of the fetus in a high-risk pregnancy or when the due date has passed.

  • Prenatal Test: Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS)

    This quick test examines fetal blood directly from the umbilical cord. It's used to detect disorders in the fetus.

  • Prenatal Test: Ultrasound

    A prenatal ultrasound is a safe and painless test that shows a baby's shape and position. It can be done in the first, second, or third trimester of pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Tests: FAQs

    Every parent-to-be hopes for a healthy baby, but it can be hard not to worry. Find out what tests can keep you informed of your health — and your baby's — throughout pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Tests: First Trimester

    Find out what tests may be offered to you during the first trimester of pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Tests: Second Trimester

    Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 13 through 26 of pregnancy.

  • Prenatal Tests: Third Trimester

    Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 27 through 40 of pregnancy.

  • Preparing for Multiple Births

    Are you expecting more than one baby? Find out how to take care of yourself and prepare for your multiple birth experience.

  • Preventing Overheating During Pregnancy

    Find out why it's important to keep your core temperature at a normal level and not get overheated during pregnancy.

  • Recovering From Delivery

    After giving birth, you'll notice you've changed somewhat - both physically and emotionally. Here's what to expect after labor and delivery.

  • Recreational Drugs and Pregnancy

    Drug use during pregnancy can cause many problems, both in the mother and baby.

  • Rh Incompatibility During Pregnancy

    If you just found out you're pregnant, one of the first tests you should expect is a blood-type test. This basic test determines your blood type and Rh factor, which may play an important role in your baby's health.

  • Severe Morning Sickness (Hyperemesis Gravidarum)

    Bouts of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy are considered normal. But when they're so severe that a woman can't keep foods down, she and her baby's health are at risk.

  • Sex During Pregnancy

    Like many parents-to-be, you might have questions about the safety of sex and what's "normal." That can vary widely, but you can be sure that your sex life will change during pregnancy.

  • Sleeping During Pregnancy

    Catching enough ZZZs during pregnancy can be difficult for many women. Here's why - plus tips for better sleep.

  • Smoking and Pregnancy

    Especially during pregnancy, it’s best to avoid all tobacco or nicotine-containing products. Here's why.

  • Staying Healthy During Pregnancy

    Now that you're pregnant, taking care of yourself has never been more important. Here's how to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.

  • Sunless and Self-Tanning During Pregnancy

    It hasn’t been that well-studied, but there's no proof that self-tanners are harmful to an unborn baby.

  • Taking Care of Your Mental Health During Pregnancy

    Pregnancy brings a mix of feelings, and not all of them are good. It can be even harder if you're dealing with depression or anxiety.

  • Treatments to Prevent Premature Birth

    Some women are more likely than others to go into labor early. Find out what doctors can do to help prevent or delay early labor.

  • Using Artificial Sweeteners During Pregnancy

    Most FDA-approved low-calorie sweeteners are OK to use in moderation during pregnancy. Find out more.

  • Using Bug Killers and Repellents During Pregnancy

    Some pesticides can harm a growing fetus. But many insect repellents are considered safe to use during pregnancy.

  • Using Hair Dyes and Color During Pregnancy

    Because very little dye is absorbed through the skin, dying your hair is "most likely usually safe" during pregnancy, say health experts.

  • Using Household Chemicals During Pregnancy

    Using some household chemicals may have no effect during pregnancy, while others in high doses could be harmful.

  • Using Medicines During Pregnancy

    Many medicines shouldn't be used during pregnancy, but others are OK.

  • Using Teeth Whiteners During Pregnancy

    If you're pregnant, talk to your doctor or dentist before using bleaching products.

  • Week 1

    Week 1 is actually your menstrual period, but because your due date is calculated from the first day of your last period, it counts as part of your 40-week pregnancy.

  • Week 10

    At this point in the pregnancy, all vital organs have been formed and are starting to work together. Congenital abnormalities are unlikely to develop after week 10.

  • Week 11

    If you saw a picture of your baby now, you'd think you had a genius on your hands — the baby's head accounts for about half of the body length!

  • Week 12

    Tiny fingernails and toenails start to form this week, which is the last of your first trimester.

  • Week 13

    As you begin the second trimester, your baby may be able to put a thumb in his or her mouth although the sucking muscles aren't completely developed yet.

  • Week 14

    Some fine hairs, called lanugo, have developed on your baby's face. This soft colorless hair protects the skin and will eventually cover most of your baby's body until it is shed just before delivery.

  • Week 15

    Muscle development continues, and your baby is probably making lots of movements with his or her head, mouth, arms, wrists, hands, legs, and feet.

  • Week 16

    Your baby can hold his or her head erect, and facial muscles now allow for a variety of expressions, such as squinting and frowning.

  • Week 17

    Your baby is still very tiny at about 5.1 inches from crown to rump this week.

  • Week 18

    Your baby's bones had been developing but were still soft. This week, they begin to harden, or ossify.

  • Week 19

    A waxy substance called vernix caseosa is covering your baby to help protect the delicate skin from becoming chapped or scratched.

  • Week 2

    Week 2 is the midpoint of a typical menstrual cycle, when ovulation occurs and conditions are most favorable for fertilization of an egg by sperm.

  • Week 20

    You're now halfway through your pregnancy and possibly feeling your baby's first movements, which may begin between weeks 18 and 20.

  • Week 21

    Your baby's intestines are developed enough that small amounts of sugars are absorbed from the fluid your baby swallows and passed through the digestive system to the large bowel.

  • Week 22

    Brain and nerve endings are formed enough so that the fetus can feel touch, while you might be feeling irregular, painless Braxton Hicks contractions.

  • Week 23

    You may feel more forceful movements — your baby's daily workout routine includes moving the muscles in the fingers, toes, arms, and legs.

  • Week 24

    Your baby's inner ear has developed enough that your baby can know when he or she is upside down or right side up in your belly.

  • Week 25

    You may notice that your baby has resting and alert periods. Your baby's hearing has continued to develop, too — he or she may now be able to hear your voice!

  • Week 26

    Your baby now weighs a little less than 2 pounds and will gain weight steadily until birth.

  • Week 27

    This first week of the third trimester, your baby looks similar to what he or she will look like at birth - just smaller and thinner.

  • Week 28

    Your health care provider may tell you whether your baby is headfirst or feet- or bottom-first (called breech position). Don't worry if your baby is in the breech position right now — most babies will switch positions on their own.

  • Week 29

    Your active baby's first few flutters of movement have given way to hard jabs and kicks that may take your breath away.

  • Week 3

    During this week, the rapidly dividing fertilized egg will implant itself in the uterus, at the site that eventually will become the placenta.

  • Week 30

    Your baby continues to gain weight and layers of fat that will provide warmth after birth.

  • Week 31

    By now, the milk glands in your breasts may have started to make colostrum, the milk that will feed the baby in the first few days if you decide to breastfeed.

  • Week 32

    At this stage in the pregnancy, your baby's hair is developing, in the form of eyelashes, eyebrows, and on your baby's head.

  • Week 33

    Like a newborn, your baby sleeps much of the time and even has REM sleep, the stage when our most vivid dreams happen.

  • Week 34

    Your baby is probably in position for delivery — your health care provider can tell you if your baby is positioned head- or bottom-first.

  • Week 35

    Because of increasing size, your baby is now cramped and restricted inside the uterus. Fetal movements may decrease, but feel stronger and more forceful.

  • Week 36

    At this point, your appetite may return because the baby has dropped down into your pelvis, and is no longer putting as much pressure on your stomach and intestines.

  • Week 37

    This week, your baby continues to gain weight — at half an ounce a day!

  • Week 38

    At this point, you may be taking frequent trips to the bathroom. That's because your baby is engaged in your pelvis, so your bladder is extremely compressed.

  • Week 39

    Braxton Hicks contractions (also called "false labor") may become more pronounced, and your water may break.

  • Week 4

    During this week, your baby, or embryo, has two layers of cells that will develop into organs and body parts.

  • Week 40

    Your baby is here! Or maybe not — most women, especially first-time moms, don't deliver on their estimated due dates.

  • Week 5

    This week, the embryo begins to form a distinct shape that includes the neural tube, which will become the spinal cord and brain.

  • Week 6

    Your baby's heart will begin to beat around this time, and the beginnings of the digestive and respiratory systems are forming, as are small buds that will grow into arms and legs.

  • Week 7

    The umbilical cord has formed, and the mouth, nostrils, ears, and eyes are some of the facial features that become more defined this week. The arm bud now has a hand on the end of it, which looks like a tiny paddle.

  • Week 8

    Around this time, symptoms such as a missed period, nausea, extreme fatigue, or tight clothes may make the reality of pregnancy hit home.

  • Week 9

    Your baby measures about 0.6 to 0.7 inches from crown to rump and weighs around 0.1 ounces. Your baby may make some first movements as muscles develop, but you won't feel them for several more weeks.

  • What Are Kegel Exercises?

    Doing Kegel exercises during pregnancy can help reduce incontinence (when pee leaks) caused by the weight of the baby on the bladder.

  • What Can I Do to Relieve My Pregnancy Backaches?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • What if My Baby Isn't Born by My Due Date?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • What Is Prenatal Care Before Pregnancy?

    What should women who are planning a pregnancy do before they conceive? Find out here.

  • What's a "High-Risk" Pregnancy?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • When Do Pregnant Women Need Progesterone Shots?

    Doctor may prescribe progesterone shots during a woman's pregnancy to help prevent early labor.

  • Why Are Babies Born Early?

    Many things can cause a baby to be born early or with health problems. Some of these things can be controlled, but others can’t. Find out what you can do to have a healthy pregnancy.

  • Why Are Pregnant Women Told to Avoid Feta Cheese?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Why Do Many Pregnant Women Pull Ligaments, Muscles, and Joints?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Why Do Some Pregnant Women Get Varicose Veins?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Why Do Some Women Feel Short of Breath During Pregnancy?

    As a normal part of pregnancy, breathing may be affected by the increase in the hormone progesterone, which causes you to breathe in more deeply. This might make you feel as if you're working harder to get air.

  • Bed-Sharing

    Bed-sharing increases the risk of sleep-related deaths, including SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for the safest sleep environment.

  • Breastfeeding FAQs: Sleep - Yours and Your Baby's

    Here are answers to some common questions about breastfed babies and sleep - from where they should snooze to when they'll finally start sleeping through the night.

  • Flat Head Syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly)

    Babies can develop a flat spot on the back of their heads, usually from sleeping in the same position too long. Alternating your baby's sleep position and providing lots of "tummy time" can help.

  • Helping Your Baby Sleep (Video)

    All new parents want their babies to sleep well. Here's what to expect in that first year, and how to help your baby sleep.

  • How Can I Be Sure My Baby Stays on Her Back While She Sleeps?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Naps

    A good nap can keep kids from becoming overtired, which not only takes a toll on their moods but might make it harder for them to fall asleep at night.

  • Safe Sleep for Babies (Video)

    Guard against sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by learning how to safely put your baby to sleep.

  • Sleep and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old

    Nighttime feedings may be a thing of the past, but in this second year of life your tot might be rising for other reasons. Learn more.

  • Sleep and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old

    At this age, babies generally have their days and nights straightened out. Many infants even "sleep through the night," which means 5 or 6 hours at a time.

  • Sleep and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old

    By this age, your baby should be on the way to having a regular sleep pattern, sleeping longer at night, and taking 2 or 3 naps during the day.

  • Sleep and Your 8- to 12-Month-Old

    Sleep problems are common in the second half of a baby's first year. It's best to respond to your baby's needs with the right balance of concern and consistency.

  • Sleep and Your Newborn

    Newborn babies don’t yet have a sense of day and night. They wake often to eat – no matter what time it is.

  • Sleep and Your School-Aged Child

    School-age kids need 9–12 hours of sleep a night. If they don't get it, they may be cranky or moody, hyper, and have behavior problems.

  • Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

    SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants 1 month to 1 year old. Though SIDS remains unpredictable, you can help reduce your infant's risk.

What next?

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