Your Pregnancy Week by Week: Weeks 31-34

Week 31 Baby: Your baby can hear distinct sounds, including familiar voices and music. Mom-to-be: Your uterus now fills a large part of your abdomen, and you've probably gained 21-27 pounds. You're probably anticipating the birth -- it won't be long now. Tip of the Week: Practice your breathing and relaxation exercises. Week 32 Baby: Your baby measures...

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Your Pregnancy Week by Week: Weeks 26-30

Week 26 Baby: Your baby's hearing is fully developed. As the baby reacts to sounds, its pulse increases.Your baby will even move in rhythm to music. Lungs are still growing but are not yet mature. Patterns of your baby's brain waves appear like a full-term newborn. He or she also has patterns of sleeping and waking. Mom-to-be: The...

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Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Now that you've reached the third trimester, you're in the home stretch of your pregnancy. You've only got a few more weeks to go, but this part of your pregnancy can be the most challenging. In this article, you'll learn what to expect during your third trimester of pregnancy. You'll find out which symptoms are normal, and which ones may warrant a call to your doctor. Changes in Your Body Backache. The extra weight you've gained...

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Second Trimester Tests During Pregnancy

Here are the prenatal tests that may be performed in the second trimester of your pregnancy: Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) and multiple marker screening:One or the other is offered routinely in the second trimester. This test is an optional genetic screening test and as with all screening tests, talk with your doctor about the pros and cons to see if it is right for you.  The MSAFP test measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein,...

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Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy

Round ligament pain is a sharp pain or jabbing feeling often felt in the lower belly or groin area on one or both sides. It is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy and is considered a normal part of pregnancy. It is most often felt during the second trimester. Here is what you need to know about round ligament pain, including some tips to help you feel better. Causes of Round Ligament Pain Several thick ligaments...

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Back Pain in Pregnancy

The good news is, your baby is growing. That's exactly what should be happening -- but it can still be tough on your back. You've got lots of company -- most pregnant women experience back pain, usually starting in the second half of pregnancy. You should know that there are things you can do to minimize your back pain. Here's what helps. Causes of Back Pain in Pregnant Women Pregnancy back pain typically happens where the pelvis meets your...

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Pregnancy and Heartburn

Despite its name, heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. (Some of the symptoms, however, are similar to those of a heart attack or heart disease.) Heartburn is an irritation of the esophagus that is caused by stomach acid and is a common pregnancy complaint, especially in the third trimester when the growing uterus places pressure on the stomach. With gravity's...

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