Stages of Pregnancy

What’s Happening?

Now What?

purple or red marks (striae or stretch marks) on abdomen, breasts, and thighs

• after birth, the stretch marks will gradually change from red or purple to tan or white and will become harder to see
• some women never lose their stretch marks

dry, itchy skin

• if you choose to use soap, try glycerin soap
• avoid long, hot baths
• apply oils or lotions to keep your skin moisturized, especially after a bath or shower
• calamine lotion may relieve the itching
• if you have severe itching, talk with your health care provider

increased fatigue (feeling more tired)

• rest often and listen to your body
• ask someone to help with daily chores
• if possible, stop work early if you are overtired

feelings of doubt or fear about labour

• develop a birth plan
• talk with your health care provider about concerns and plans for labour
• learn about labour and birth so you know your options
• attend prenatal classes

pre‑labour or Braxton Hicks contractions

• these contractions are normal
• tell your health care provider if the contractions are regular and become uncomfortable

muscle cramps in legs, especially at night

• make sure you get enough calcium in your diet or talk to your health care provider about a calcium supplement
• avoid getting too tired
• put your feet up
• be physically active
• take a warm bath before going to bed
• stretch your lower leg area before going to bed

feeling impatient because the pregnancy seems as though it will never end

• a full term pregnancy is anywhere from 38 to 42 weeks
• call upon your support system when you feel frustrated and talk about your feelings

hemorrhoids

• avoid constipation and straining
• do pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises
• rest and sleep on either side with a pillow between your legs. Do not lie flat on your back
• try not to sit or stand for long periods of time – change positions or walk around
• for relief, apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the area

heartburn

• eat small, frequent meals
• avoid fried, fatty, and spicy foods
• drink a lot of liquids between meals
• elevate your head and shoulders while resting
• do not bend or lie down immediately after a meal
• do not wear tight waistbands
• chew sugarless, non‑peppermint gum (ideally containing xylitol) may also help

sudden groin pain

• avoid sudden movement
• bend slightly at the hips when you expect to cough or sneeze

shortness of breath

• try taking deep, slow breaths through the mouth
• wear loose clothing
• use good posture
• get plenty of rest

difficulty sleeping

• have regular sleep habits
• be physically active
• before going to bed try:
  • taking a warm, relaxing bath
  • eating a snack with a warm drink
  • using extra pillows for support
  • practising deep breathing and relaxation exercises
  • listening to relaxing music

improved breathing

• make a note when this happens and tell your health care provider at your next visit (this usually means your baby has moved down into your pelvis in preparation for birth)

increased need to pee

• pee regularly
• avoid caffeine
• do pelvic floor(Kegel) exercises (see page 46)

an increase in Braxton Hicks contractions

• this is normal
• your uterus is contacting to soften and thin your cervix in preparation for labour
• pack your hospital labour kit (see page 57 for what to pack)
• arrange to have care for your children and your house while you are in the hospital