Week 1

baby:

It may seem weird but the very first day of your pregnancy is your very last period at the same time. It is worth to remember this date as you will be asked about it continuously. It is the date that is going to be used to determine your due date. Though your baby has not been conceived yet, your body has been preparing itself to receive an embryo. Uterine lining thickens in anticipation of your ovum. In the course of implantation, that is settling of fertilised ovum in your uterus, some spotting that resembles unusual period may appear.

mom:

Now you know that your pregnancy starts 2 weeks before potential conception. It may be weird, but you have to bear in mind that each of your menstrual cycles is tantamount to potential pregnancy, at least from the point of view of your body. To realize when you can get pregnant you should comprehend your own menstrual cycle. Average cycle lasts 28 days. The first day of the cycle is the first day of your period. About 14-th day of the cycle ovulation begins. That is the time when the potential to get pregnant increases. After abandoning ovary, your ovum migrates along fallopian tube and your body prepares for potential pregnancy. Within 12 to 24 hours, in the course of migration, this ovum may be fertilised. Though your baby has not been conceived yet, get your body prepared to receive an embryo. Primarily, neither drink alcohol nor smoke cigarettes as you never know when you may get fertilised. It may be worth to apply appropriate high-protein and high-folic acid diet that would protect your body against diseases of your nervous system.

dad:

You may have dreamt of having a baby for a long time, or the decision to have a baby was very difficult for you. Not everyone is so certain that they want to have a baby, right away. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, right now you are experiencing the beginning of a completely new phase in your life. It will be full of beautiful moments, full of emotions, but also full of challenges. This small part of you and your partner will soon be born and will count on you very much, and you will gain unprecedented motivation to act. Being a dad is wonderful. Anyway, you will see for yourself.

Week 2

baby:

Although you are not fertilised yet, your body has been still preparing for it. Each time you ovulate, uterine lining thickens and prepares for reception of ovum. If you are not fertilised, mucous membrane exfoliates causing your period to occur. At the end of the second week, fertilisation is possible. Your egg merges with the sperm and you are getting pregnant. At this very moment the sex of your baby is determined. If the sperm carries a Y chromosome, your baby will be a boy; if it is an X chromosome, you will be welcoming a girl

mom:

Your period has come to an end and you are eager to have a baby. So you probably start to notice pregnant women and small babyren wherever you go - in shops, on the bus, in the park. The temperature of your body is a bit above normal as it may reach 37 degree. In your ovary, the egg has just started to ripe and soon it will be swept into the fallopian tube. Soon, you will be ovulating and your ovum will be looking forward to its only partner - a strong and handsome sperm which is supposed to fight millions of other sperms to get inside the ovum. It may be the best time to search for your gynaecologist. You have to consider if it is going to be your current doctor or any other specialist. Would you like your gynaecologist to be a woman or a man?

dad:

Are you ready to become a dad? Perhaps your thoughts are dominated by doubts and you still do not feel good with this prospect. On the other hand, how can you be prepared for it as you have never experienced it before? You probably cannot be ready but in the course of planning your baby you should be prepared for changes. Surely, getting to know that your partner is pregnant will be always surprising. Even yourself you cannot imagine your response to the news. You will be pondering over managing your fatherhood and hearing the very first cry of your baby. Calm down, you will learn all the things in a right time.

Week 3

baby:

24 hour upon fertilisation, your baby has started to exist as a set of rapidly dividing cells. Upon completion of 5-day swim from the fallopian tube, the embryo settles down in endometrium. Endometrium is the uterine lining which firstly provides embryo with necessary nutrients and removes all harmful substances. The embryo resembles small ball consisting of plenty rapidly dividing cells. The baby is as big as a pinhead and it may be visible, with an effort, to the naked eye!

mom:

Am I pregnant? Some of symptoms such as breast sensitivity, flatulence, or changeable moods are often confused with typical menstruation symptoms. At the end of the third week, some insignificant bleeding may occur. It is so called implantation bleeding around the time your period is due. Some women may experience more symptoms day by day while the others may not. Increased level of hormones, first of all the pregnancy hormone hCG, is one of the first symptoms of your pregnancy. hCG hormone is detected by pregnancy test that may be purchased at chemist's.

dad:

In this week, if everything is OK, the sperm and the ovum will join causing your DNA to mix with DNA of your partner. You probably do not yet know that soon you will become a father as accuracy of pregnancy test increases approximately 14 days after fertilisation. The very first symptom of your fatherhood may be your partner's missed period. You may spot other, more certain clues. Some mums, in first weeks of their pregnancy, almost vomit upon drinking a sip of wine. Others may feel a slight pain in the course of implantation. Odd behaviour, partner's enhanced appetite, and changing moods are caused by increased level of pregnancy hormones. You may be certain about your pregnancy after having a test. Pregnancy test are 99% accurate, but 100% accuracy will be achieved upon having blood test.

Week 4

baby:

While the parents live their lives idly, the baby is very busy. In the fourth week a blastocyst, that is a tiny ball of several hundred rapidly multiplying cells, burrows from the fallopian tube to the uterus. These cells will soon form the placenta and the baby. Cell division is not the only activity in this week. Embyo layers start to divide into specific parts. External part is to transform into skin, hair, eyes and nervous system of your baby. In the middle part, heart, sexual organs, bones,muscles, and kidneys will be formed soon. Internal part will transform into liver, lungs, and digestive system.

mom:

How to get to know if I am pregnant? Am I pregnant or not? I have been thinking about it all day long. Lingering uncertainty gives you sleepless nights. You can have another pregnancy tests. The time before the pale test line appears will drag on endlessly. Remember that pregnancy test is not a final confirmation. If the test is negative and you still do not menstruate, you can carry out consecutive test in a couple of days. You need some time before certain concentration of pregnancy hormone (hCG) is to be discovered by the test. This is the time when you may become sensitive to some flavours and scents, as well as vomiting. It is not surprising as your body needs to adapt to new circumstances, that is to care about two hearts beating as one.

dad:

Is she pregnant? One of the first signs of pregnancy that you may notice in your partner is drowsiness, and sometimes nausea (often after certain products). Missed menstruation is truly the first physical symptom that you may become a dad. You are not sure if to start thinking about your baby or it is only a false alarm. The next step is to make complete blood count which should indicate an increase of pregnancy hormone in your partner's blood. Remember that some time is needed before such hormone is to be found in her blood. All you have to do is just to wait patiently. In the meantime, do your best to support your partner. Make sure that she eats healthy products, have some exercise, take prenatal vitamins and have a lot of rest. Probably, this is more emotional and depressing experience for her than for you. If your partner is pregnant, her body is being under attack of hormones that may have a huge impact onto her both physical and emotional conditions. She needs you more than ever before and the best you can do is to stay at her side.

Week 5

baby:

In the fifth week, your baby is barely an embryo but it develops and grows quicker than any time in its life. The embryo resembles the shape of a letter C and it has its head, torso, front, back and… a tail (do not worry, the tail is going to be retracted in some later stage). The embryo contains now approximately 125 thousand cells, that is twice as many as the number of seats at the National Stadium. It is even more amazing that this week the heart of the baby is just being shaped and starts beating (though its contractions will become more regular not earlier than in 2 weeks). Within this week, the spinal cord and brain start to develop along with lungs, liver, pancreas, and placenta that will deliver oxygen and food to your baby.

mom:

Pregnancy test turns positive! You may be shocked with the test result. Needless to say, you will be unable to concentrate on any other issues that you dealt with before getting pregnant. Surely, you will be both happy and anxious. Are we really ready for parenthood? Is this the right time to apply for a playgroup? And what about the name? What about John? Pregnancy hormones give you now a real kick and determination "rozproszona" perfectly describes your current state of mind. What can you feel in this week? The most appropriate word describing your conditions will be just "tired". You may feel drowsiness and be ready to take a nap at any moment during the day. Try this time to trust your body and enjoy the moment, just that matures in you new life .

dad:

When a woman finds out that a little baby is growing inside her body, she reacts in a totally different manner than her partner does. Your response to the news will be surely quite complex. Majority of blokes seem to be excited, anxious, and shocked as their world is going to be changed. You may be panic-stricken because of responsibility that you cannot run away. Calm down, as this feeling is temporary and in a week you will fell quite different and more natural. Just concentrate yourself on your partner! She wants you to tell her that you are happy to become a dad. Prevent yourself from asking her "Are you sure?”. Whether or not you are now ready for this information, try to wear a "pregnancy mask". Your partner needs your support as she never did before. It is not a question of being a perfect father and partner. Most of all, it is a question of commitment.

Week 6

baby:

Your baby develops rapidly growing 1 mm a day. You may think it is not much but when you realize that during a night the embryo grows even 1/3 of its size you will get impressed. Within this week the head of the embryo will be far bigger that the rest of its body. Ovules of the lower and upper limbs will be forming into shoulders, arms, and hands as well as shins, knees, calves, and feet. Heart beating becomes now more regular, and the heart itself divides already into two (of four) cavities. The most important issue at this stage of the pregnancy is that an umbilical cord is grown in order to provide embryo with oxygen and food for the consecutive 34 weeks or even later.

mom:

You must be unbelievably happy at the moment but you probably do not feel very attractive. Your swollen breast, tiredness, and bladder problems cause frequent using toilet. Unfortunately, these are only some of the symptoms that you face this week. The others include changing moods that make you crying even when watching TV ad of rubber tyres or moved to tears by this application content. Be ready for your first appointment at gynaecologist's this week. You will be referred to take a urine and blood samples to the lab in order to check blood sugar level that may indicate pregnancy diabetes. If this is your first pregnancy, for sure, you may ask your doctor a plenty of questions. Just note all of them down. All your doubts will be dispelled by professional answers. All you need to remember this week is to inform other doctors, who you visit, about your pregnancy; especially your dentist who must take care when selecting appropriate anaesthetization.

dad:

Not quite in a year you will become a dad! It may happen that some books and magazines related to pregnancy and infants have been placed on your bedside table. Reading them all is not necessary to be a husband and father, but the more you know, the easier it will be for you to understand what is happening to your partner and what your baby's behaviour means. Currently, more and more men are eager to be involved in their fatherhood in comparison to the fathers of a bygone era. Plenty of men do their best to devote more time for parenthood both by full time working and staying at home. More and more dads are already taking paternity or parental leave. What is even more, recently some books related to being a dad, written by fathers, have appeared! Similarly, some blogs, videoblogs and websites for current fathers and fathers-to-be have appeared. If the information contained in this application is not sufficient, you will definitely find some interesting literature.

Week 7

baby:

That is another important week for the baby! At the beginning of the seventh week, the embryo still resembles a tadpole but at the end of this week it will resemble more and more a tiny human being. The baby's body still grows. The baby's hands grow as well. This week these start to bend at elbows. Its heart beats more rhythmically. Not later than at the end of this week the entire skeleton will be formed though at the moment it is made of soft cartilage, similarly to skeleton of sharks, and then at a later stage it will be re-shaped in real bones. The digestive system, kidneys, liver, heart, spleen, and even appendix have been already formed! Now bearing cover and mini-wisps like fluffy ball. These locks are used for transferring oxygen and food to, more and more dynamically developed, embryo.

mom:

Unfortunately, when the embryo does not resemble tadpole any more, you suffer more and more from change moods. It happens because this marvellous rubi organ, the placenta, develops more and more dynamically, along with the baby, delivering increased concentration of pregnancy hormone (hCG) to your blood. You may not know that this hormone is your both best friend and deadly enemy which triggers off your extreme emotions such as euphoria, happiness, crying, and extensive sensitivity. Except that you are more sensitive to flavours and scents. Perfumes of your mother in law may cause you running to the toilet. Another symptom may be food whims. If you have not ever eaten full jar of jam at a time or ordered a pizza before you went to sleep, remember that right now such actions will not be surprising. It is difficult to determine the reason for such whims. The rumour has it that nutritions deficiency may have direct impact onto it. Do you suddenly feel the need to get some meat? It may be caused by deficiency in proteins. What about ice-cream? Possibly you need some calcium that is necessary for bones development. Anyway, these are only mere conjectures. So far, the source of pregnancy whims has not been recognised, though researchers distinct some pregnancy "delicacies" that are common to all pregnant women. Most of all, these include salt. Did your partner tell you that you have started adding too much salt to the meals? Increased feeling like "salty products" results from the need to heighten the volume of blood in your body during pregnancy. Sodium (salt ingredient) steps on its production. In this time you may care for something sour because lemon and other sour fruit may prevent you from morning nausea. On the other hand, you may detest anything bitter which is attributed to spoiled or poisonous food that subconsciously shall be the reason for the embryo protection. Nausea, changing moods, frequent going to the toilet may make you feel extremely exhausted. Console yourself with the thought that an increase of hCG hormone is an indication of normal pregnancy thus you have to make it through. If you are lucky and you do not experience any symptoms or troubles during the first term, do not worry as each woman goes through it in a different manner.

dad:

Nausea? It must be awful. If you had stomach flu, it is easier for you to imagine what your partner is going through. Nausea may last even the entire day and remain to the end of the first term. The hormones that are now flooding your baby's future mother are literally like a flood. Regardless of her will to live her life normally, her nausea and extreme emotions cause her exhausted. Your role is relatively simple: to provide her with all desired products such as ice-cream, pizza, a jar of jam from her mother, and so on. If any scent makes her feel nauseous, you are supposed to get rid of it immediately even in case it is your favourite roast. Provide her with as much snacks as possible between meals even if she says she is not gonna sneak. Those snacks are to eliminate nausea thus insert some of her favourite products into her handbag before going out to work. Remember to have herbal essences up your sleeve all the time, e.g. ginger tea. repeatedly tell her: „You'll be OK soon”.

Week 8

baby:

Each consecutive day you adapt to your pregnancy and you are willing to announce it to your friends. That is typical as your baby does not resemble compact mass of cells any more. Instead, the embryo more and more looks like a baby which is to be born. In this week the head, eye sockets, nose, and mouth line including upper lip are formed. Where something resembling hands and legs was previously found, now tiny fingers start to develop. At the moment the baby is as big as raspberry. It is approx. 14-20 mm long and approx. 3 g in weight.

mom:

Week by week you will be observing more and more pregnancy symptoms. Nausea may still occur. You may feel also pains in your stomach. What is even more, if you did not keep your family and friends informed that you are pregnant you may feel depressed that there is no one to talk about your condition. That is the question: when is the best time to tell your family and friends that you are pregnant? Considering the risk of miscarriage within first 12 weeks, some mums do not talk about it, or jinx it, until the end of the first term. Others are willing to announce good news as soon as two lines appear on the pregnancy test. Making a proper decision in this case is rather difficult. If you was making attempts to get pregnant for a quite long time, keeping this as a secret for another 4 weeks seems to be unimaginable, especially when your family and friends are aware of the fact that you have made those attempts. Making them unsure may be impossible. You may do your best not to reveal the secret but, definitely, they will be observing some changes to your behaviours. Drinking alcohol is strictly forbidden to pregnant women and possibly your family and friends will, at last, ask you for the reason for denying a glass of wine. Secondly - eating! During first weeks of your pregnancy you might get some snacks that you have never eaten before or you can have double portion of your dinner. Your friends will, for sure, notice that during a party you ate chips after chocolate cake. The clothes you wear are significant as well. Continuous bloats probably make you feel uncomfortable when you wear tight clothes and you will be willing to put on loose apparel. Drowsiness and weariness make you feel more uncomfortable. Taking naps during the day may be suspicious as well. Some people are used to saying that pregnancy emerge on the face of a woman. Why does your face look differently when you are pregnant? Increased blood circulation adds more colours and flushes to your face.

dad:

Why accompanying your partner at doctor's is so important? It is crucial for you, as a father-to-be, for your partner and for your baby. The more you know, the better you understand your partner and the more you support her. Establishing relationship with the baby is important also. Your partner probably does not have a problem with that, because the baby bears in his body. It may be a bit more difficult for you, but after all it's also a part of you. You should not miss watching the embryo at least on USG monitor and listen to its heartbeat. Accompanying your partner at the doctor's appointments is a part of your relationship. The more you are involved at this moment the more impact on the decisions related to the baby you will have in the future. What is more, you are not allowed to forget that when your partner is pregnant, especially during the labour, you are going to protect her in case of any emergencies. Taking it into consideration, the more you know the better it is for you.

Week 9

baby:

In this week the baby still develops. Day by day, its face resembles more and more a face of a tiny human being. In this week, the eyes are developing while nose and lips are more and more finally formed. Your baby starts to move its body and have some exercises. Fingers and toes stop to look like tiny poles and resemble palms and feet of little baby. Though, the embryo moves itself, it is so tiny that those movements cannot be palpable. In this week, sexual organs start to be formed but at the moment these are too small that neither you nor your doctor are able to differentiate these even with a magnifying glass.

mom:

Your body carries on with plenty of changes, from morning nausea, through common acne, to cruel tiredness. These are done by hormones! You may not experience any of these symptoms and before you realize that your period has been missed the very first symptom that you are going to get will be tiredness. Your bay is growing rapidly and its body changes quickly. These require plenty of energy resources. You may experience both physical and mental tiredness. What are you suppose to do in case of tiredness? Relax as much as you can. Instead of straining exercises, enrol in a stretch training or yoga for pregnant women. Search for locations where you can relax and calm down. Devote more time for sleeping. Additional 1-hour sleep a day may be helpful in respect of clarity of your thought and recuperation. Thinking about your baby may bring you a lot of happiness but, at the same time, it may be fearful and stressful. You are probably worried about your job and managing your financial obligations when the baby comes. How can I face everyday adversities in combination with changing diaper and rocking the baby to sleep? Try not to think about it at the very moment. Instead, do your best to relax as much as possible. Some women practice respiratory exercises while others ask for help and support their friends. Hot bath may be helpful but you have to be careful not to make water too hot. If you are afraid of bathing, treat yourself with hot compresses on painful spots. Pillows filled with rice are comfortable and if you choose those scented ones, you will have aromatherapy at the same time.

dad:

Your partner's „morning nausea”. We have no idea who had introduced this term to describe sickness of pregnant women. All you have to know is that she may suffer from nausea all day long. As it may be occurring at noon, in the evening, or even at night it makes the mother of your baby annoyed. Sudden increase of hormone level is huge to such an extent that she has never experienced that before. Such a change may be physically and emotionally exhaustive. Your energetic partner, suddenly, will have to start taking at least one nap a day. These hormones may cause nausea and other unusual reaction to food which you have not noticed before. Some meals may be highly desired but others may cause nausea. Some mothers-to-be experience nausea as a result of using toothpaste! How can you help her? First of all you have to remain cool! Your partner is acting obnoxiously but you need to bear in mind that these are hormones to be blamed and soon it is going to be OK. Do your best to make her feel better. Take care and provide her sufficient amount of food. Empty stomach causes her hormones burrow through her body. Crackers and a lot of water should be within reach. Prepare an "emergency set" containing snacks and drinks when she goes out on her own. Ginger sweets are a nausea-control agent! The most important thing is to be flexible and to adapt to changing needs.

Week 10

baby:

10-th week is an another milestone in the development of the embryo. All cells have found their proper locations, the brain develops faster and faster, muscles are being formed, while fingers and toes finally reach their forms. Soon the fingernails will be developing. The eyelids have been formed, but so far upper and lower lids are joined together. These are going to be joined for a couple of consecutive weeks. The ears move to the proper location as it may be strange that at the beginning these started to develop on the neck. Your baby is already able to swallow amniotic fluid as this week digestive tract organs such as intestine start to work. Finally, the tiny heart has got 2 atriums and 2 chambers.

mom:

Should anybody blame you for your grumpiness do not bother it as this is typical behaviour when you are pregnant. Women differently behave within first weeks of their pregnancy. If you are not drowsy and do not fall asleep earlier, surely you will feel much more tired. Possibly the scope of your professional duties will be taken over by other person or the tasks will be postponed. Remember that you have been working hard in an another way. Do you ponder over keeping your figure or the types of allowed exercise? When you are pregnant you are not allowed to do too intense exercise but some proper activities will surely make you ready for the climax, that is the labour. Your tiredness may make your exercises more difficult. Increased level of progesterone makes some women calm down. Additionally, your heart pumps now much more blood delivering it to the placenta. It means that the heart is working harder. The next obstacle may be nausea. If you feel sick from the scent of coffee you will be unable to go for jogging as you did before. What is more, higher levels of the hormone relaxin causes relaxation of ligaments and joint ache that are not helpful when exercising. Relaxation of ligaments occurs because the body has become more flexible providing more space for the development and, which is even more important, for the labour. Additionally, more sensitive breast may be also the reason why you should avoid intense activities. But if you manage to take up some exercises it is worth to familiarise with advantages of being active because relax and stress relief can help you calm down. You probably have a lot on my mind now - including the choice of name for baby and babyren's room color. Exercises prompts the body to release endorphins that make you feel good. Another reason can be strengthening! You may feel some pains. Muscle strengthening may ease those pains. Additionally, if you want to feel better and have easier delivery you need to strengthen your body. Before you enrol in any trainings, consult this idea with your doctor. The doctor may be able to select any appropriate set of exercises of any locations that could be more friendly to future mums. Not only fun and relax would be brought to you by appropriate type of activities but you will be given a chance to meet some pregnant kindred spirits as well.

dad:

You life is to be changed at the moment you see your baby for the first time on USG screen. Some time ago the baby seemed to be more imaginary but when you see his development inside the body of the person who you love, it becomes more and more realistic. You can see now baby's hands, legs, and head or you can even imagine the baby's appearance after birth. This is the time when majority of men establish real relationship with their babies. Your presence during USG examination is important for you, your partner, and your baby. Though the first USG exam seems to make the greatest impression, all those consecutive examinations are equally important. It is quite good to be familiarised with all the changes to the body of your partner. Doctors are generally used to the presence of partners in the course of medical examinations. Anyway, if your doctor refuses to let your partner assist you, you are allowed to insist on it. The very first photo taken with USG equipment may be exciting as well. You may want to show it to your family and friends. If you keep this photo you can have a look on it each time you want. This is a part of establishing a relationship between all of you.

Week 11

baby:

In 11-th week, tiny body of your baby can still look a bit strange. It happens as the head develops more rapidly than the rest of the body. The head makes half the height of the baby. You do not have to worry as within couple of consecutive weeks this ratio will be altered and the rest of the baby's body will catch up. The baby's size may be compared to plum. It is about 4-6 cm long and weighs about 8 grams.

mom:

You have to take care of your diet and exercises from the very beginning of your pregnancy. Those should include Kegel exercise that makes you tensing your muscles minimum 25 times a day. Where you can have those exercises? Just anywhere! At work, when got stuck in a traffic jam, in the course of hair drying or cleaning dishes. Properly tensed Kegel muscles will strengthen your pelvic floor, vagina, and perineum. This may be salutary in case of urinary incontinence during pregnancy. How to make these stronger? Try to tense vagina muscles up for about 10 seconds and then relax. Repeat the exercise several times. The first term is nearly finished. You may feel exhausted by neverending drowsiness and nausea. The amount of blood in your body significantly increased. This is for delivering more oxygen to you and to the placenta as well. Ligaments substantially relax and widen in order to accommodate your baby. Other hormones make your body alarmed, and your breasts have been preparing to feed the newborn. There are plenty of changes inside your body. Probably the size of your abdomen still is not a proof for your pregnancy and it is not visible for the closest circle. Do not worry about it! Plenty of time will pass before your abdomen resembles ripe pumpkin! Upon completion of 14-th week you may put on weight. Do not bother it as weight increase is a natural manifestation of healthy pregnancy and it should be examined individually. If you started with overweight you cannot expect to be underweight. It is said that in the course of pregnancy women put on 12-15 kg on average. Though an increase in body mass is unavoidable, it does not mean that you are allowed now to give up your healthy diet and start eating ice-cream or go large with everything you are used to eating. Why do you put on weight? The baby weighs 3 to 3.5 kg, amniotic fluid – up to 2 kg, placenta - 0,5 kg, uterus – 1 kg, bust – 1kg, bodily fluids – 2 kg, blood – 2 kg. Remaining fat, proteins, and nutrients make up about 3.5 kg. You will be putting on weight consecutively in the course of your pregnancy.

dad:

The first term is about to finish. That is the time when your partner's body gradually gets accustomed to growing a new life inside her. Little by little "morning nausea" subsides and your partner may become more energetic now. It is the highest time to start enjoying your pregnancy together! You have got plenty of time to consider your life together when the baby arrives. Your doubts and thoughts may totally differ from those that bother your partner. Right now you can steadily plan your future and get closer. Some dads make some notes in the form of a diary or even run their blogs writing down all their feelings related to their fatherhood. Try to see that from the angle of time. Think about the issues as these used to be several months ago and compare the circumstances. Are there any changes in your perception? Certainly, many things are going to be changed soon. Such diary may be a perfect gift given to your future descendant. If you are fond of taking photos, it is a good moment to immortalise those exceptional moments. These photos will become a wonderful mementos for both of you.

Week 12

baby:

At the end of this week, baby looks more and more like a newborn child. He even has tiny nails. All of the major organs are already in place. The nervous system is still evolving, while the lower intestine continues to grow inside the belly. Many organs begin to function autonomously - for example, the thyroid starts to produce hormones.

mom:

If the first few weeks of pregnancy have been tough for you (you have been suffering from tiredness, nausea, drowsiness...), the unpleasant symptoms should gradually disappear during this period. It turns out that pregnancy not only affects the physical state, but your subconscious as well. So, if you have been having weird dreams lately such as, for example, that you gave birth to a little animal or that you forgot about your baby, there’s nothing to worry about. Have you already thought about your decision on finding out your baby’s sex? At some point, the doctor will be able to determine it, but the final decision is up to you and your partner. Yet this could help choosing the name or layette for your infant. Moreover, if you already have one baby, you can start preparing it for a new brother or sister. However, not knowing your infant’s sex is always a little thrill of excitement and a pleasant reason to wonder about in the company of your loved ones. It’s also a good way to tease a bit the impatient family :-). If you are a working future mum, you probably wonder how to tell your boss you are pregnant. Some women want to keep their news under wraps until the second trimester, as in the first trimester there may be a slightly higher risk of miscarriage. Others are neither able nor willing to wait, since constant tiredness and nausea are rather hard to hide and they want to explain their condition as soon as possible. And yet other women choose to delay as long as they can, because they are not exactly sure about the state of their job nor whether they can still build a successful career after a break. If you decide to continue working during pregnancy, here are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, stay hydrated! Remember to sip on water regularly throughout the day. More water also means more frequent toilet trips. Doctors remind that holding in your pee for too long is not the best idea and may cause infections. When you go to work, always grab some healthy snacks to minimise nausea. Wear comfortable and loose clothes as these must not restrict your movements.

dad:

Future dad at work. Perhaps it’s time to consider how the birth of your child will affect your work, both now and in the future. Do you work overtime? Will you still stay longer at work? How do you get along with your boss? How does he or she treats other parents? You can decide when to tell your boss that you and your partner are expecting a baby. Nevertheless, you shouldn't leave things until the last minute. You’ve got to have time to hand over the responsibilities to your coworkers when you’ll get a call from your wife saying “Honey, my water just broke”. Though you still have a lot of time, maybe it’s time to think a little about whether to take advantage of paternity leave or, quite the opposite, work longer in order to provide for his family. Also, you should be prepared that your partner will definitely need you more in the first weeks of your newborn child’s life. All in all, it's important to find out what works best for you!

Week 13

baby:

Thirteenth week is an another crucial milestone for your baby. Little by little it looks and behaves like a newborn baby. Though the baby looks as if he had a rest as the eyelids are still joined together, his hands and legs start to move even if you do not sense it. The baby may now suck the thumb. Your baby is as huge as peach and weighs 14 to 17 grams and is about 7-8 centimetres long.

mom:

Bravo! Your nausea may have abated. Additionally, within 2-nd term a risk of miscarriage is significantly decreased. The beginning of 13-th week should be easier and you realise again and even stronger that this is true! You are expecting! If you haven't announced the joyful news to your family yet, it's finally the right moment! Once the period of nausea has probably passed, you will be able to fulfill all your pregnancy cravings. Try not to over-exaggerate as instead of nausea you can get heartburn, indigestion, or bloats. Despite of these nuisance plenty of women consider the second term as the most delightful. This is the time when you are more energetic and that makes you enjoying your pregnancy. The major advantages include the fact that you do not experience nausea although it is not a rule as probably these have abated or will abate soon for some time. Your body gets to accustom to increased level of hormones that are indispensable for correct development of the baby; - stimulated appetite – at last you can enjoy tastes and food again with no nausea; - your abdomen grows gradually – your body changes internally and externally. Your organs move to make some space for the uterus that spaces widely. - decreasing breast sensitivity – second term brings your growing breast a bit of rest. The comforting news is certainly the fact that your breasts will probably not grow any more during the second term. Although many of the first symptoms of being pregnant will disappear, many of them will unfortunately continue to accompany you. Frequent peeing will be probably your curse till the delivery. It happens as your growing baby pushes your bladder. You may also feel tired and this is typical for pregnant women.

dad:

The beginning of the second term is a good moment to consider your parenthood with your partner. No doubt, parenthood is the hardest and the most difficult task in your life. How to be a good parent? Possibly you have planned the most important rules that are to be introduced soon. Some of these may be taken in with your mother’s milk and you may feel confident about the major rules. Still you have to ponder over values and moral virtues that are the most important from your point of view, including education and manners. In order to enhance the determination of those rules you have to use your mind to imagine the figure of your baby in 25 – 30 years. Which values may be the most important for a person at this age? Which virtues should be gained at home? It may happen that you and your partner will have different views and opinions related to the baby's education but it is crucial to determine all the rules in order to prevent yourself from unnecessary misunderstanding and to line up with each other. As in case of various professions, games, and teamworks, planning is a crucial factor to attain objectives. Similarly, in this case you have to determine an action plan for yourself, your partner and your baby.

Week 14

baby:

Within this week the foetus is very active but in terms of its tiny sizes you are unable to sense any movement. The face of your baby becomes more and more distinctive. The eyes are moving closer to each other and the ears are placing in the final locations. The baby's body is covered with tiny hair that mark the beginning of real hair on his head and eyebrows. Now your baby may get the hiccups though the lungs are filled with the waters. Ask your doctor to listen to your baby's heartbeat. If you hear two or three hearts beating it means that you experience multiple pregnancy!

mom:

You may already look pregnant. This week you may still feel tired as well as experience abdomen pains as your organs move to make a space for the baby. As your stomach has been moved you may have bloats, indigestion, and heartburns. You still pee frequently as your bladder has been permanently under pressure from the child. You may find it difficult to fall asleep as your belly, in turn, takes up more and more space, grows and you'll notice that your clothes are getting tighter and tighter. Yes, it's time to change wardrobe! Be careful and prudent when selecting new clothes. Do not buy too many items as most of them may become too tight again very soon. The choice is huge and you will probably find yourself on many tempting occasions. You will certainly find something in your style. Choose items made from natural materials. What should you know? Pregnancy apparel sizes are rather consistent with the sizes that you used to wear before you got pregnant. If you are petite and wore small size clothes, you will probably fit on small pregnancy sizes. It is also worth having not only everyday things in the wardrobe, but also clothes for a special occasion, for example, a nice pregnancy dress, which you will be able to wear even during a "baby shower".

dad:

Not only will your partner feel pregnant but she will also look pregnant. This is the second already! Her belly is getting bigger and bigger, so it's time to replace her wardrobe. Currently, the choice of clothes, including those typically pregnant, is huge. It is important that you pay attention to whether the clothes your partner buys are made of natural materials. In case of the rest, give her a free hand. Remember that its appearance influences how you feel. Ensure your partner how she looks beautiful, spoil her and give her support. She needs your closeness very much.

The bigger and bigger tummy of your child's future mother is also an announcement that soon you will feel the baby's movements when you put your hand on it. Exciting, isn't it?

Week 15

baby:

In 15-th week further development of limbs, including elbow joint may be in progress. Your baby's size may be compared to apple's size. The baby's bones still grow and get longer. The baby more and more resembles the baby that is to be born. The baby's skin is still very thin and transparent as pulsing veins are visible through it. The foetus is covering with more and more tiny hair that will increase in their amount up to 28-th week.

mom:

Clumsiness may be frustrating but at least it is justified by growing abdomen. In the 15-th week of pregnancy, the uterus is exactly halfway between the pubic bone and the umbilical cord. Your stomach is getting bigger and bigger, so you have less space for other organs, such as your stomach. You may not be willing to have too large meals. Try to eat smaller portions but a bit more frequently. Have you become all fingers and thumbs recently? Did you forget again what you were supposed to remember? Did you stumble on a straight road? It is hard to say why pregnant women feel more clumsy and take non-coordinated actions. The reason may be some crucial changes to the body, for example a shift in central point. You stumble as you are a bit bigger! Your abdomen is growing and gets heavier. That is why you are unable to keep your balance. It is not surprising that you have got some problems with moving around. Though your baby is protected by your abdomen, a fall would be bad for both of you. Wear flat shoes, for example sneakers instead of high-heels or wedge-heeled shoes. Move slowly and considerably, especially when climbing stairs! Retaining water in your body is an another uncomfortable ailment. Your swelling fingers may cause some difficulties with grabbing things. Ligament and muscle relaxation may be nagging as your body has been preparing for the abdomen growth and labour. As you have to remember about shifting in central point you need also, in comparison to pre-pregnancy period, to consider restricted strength of your muscles. Do not forget about exhaustion. It is known that individuals do not keep real when tired. When pregnant, your body is always tired and you cannot devote any more time for at least one-hour sleep. It is not surprising that tiredness will be annoying now more than in pre-pregnancy.

dad:

Plenty of women consider this week as the best one in the course of entire pregnancy. Nausea rarely occurs, if any, but you have to know that her mind will not be working at full stretch as before. Increased amount of hormones, tiredness, and shifting in central point (because of growing abdomen) may cause your partner feel a bit absent-minded. The symptoms may differ; for example she can stop in the middle of her statement forgetting what she was supposed to say. Forgetting purse or keys will become a habit. Majority of women understand that these are caused by hormonal changes but for some of them, especially those well-organised, this state may be unacceptable. It may happen that you will have to take over some domestic duties. If it was her who earlier paid all the bills or fulfilled other obligations, do your best now to give her a hand. Also try to think about what else you can support it. She needs your support to feel better and you must remember it.

Week 16

baby:

The body of your baby has developed so far that it makes a support for itself. The kidneys have developed and started to produce urine. The stomach produces bile. Your baby's appearance still evolves resembling more and more a baby. Little by little hair covers the baby's head. This may be colourful! Developing face muscles enable the baby to open and close the mouth and even smile ;) In this week, the baby measures about 10-12 cm and weighs about 80 grams, just like apple.

mom:

The baby is, little by little, growing and you can now expect some abdomen and back aches. Your breast also prepare for milk production. For this reason you may feel uncomfortable and experience some pains. The number of hormones produced increases as your baby grows, so you can feel tired, dizzy and even change your mood again. Therefore, it's probably a good time for a holiday trip! When you are pregnant and you plan a trip, certainly, you have to consult your doctor. Anyway, if you plan to have some trips during your pregnancy, you have to know that at the moment it is the best time to do it. Your nausea finally abated, your abdomen is not so big, and you are probably more vigorous. As the risk of miscarriage in the first pregnancy term is the highest, the beginning of the second term is, also according to doctors, a good time to travel. When planning your trip, remember that you will not be able to do everything, even if the doctor says that there are no contraindications to the trip. Give up temporarily visits to fun park or diving activities. Instead, concentrate on relaxation in spa or a swimming pool. Try to ease up a bit. If you previously used to plan your trips in details in order to explore as much as possible, at the moment you should "chill out". Late visits, long excursions, or acting in haste will not do you good. Still, remember to keep hydrated when you are travelling. Needless to say you need to pee more frequently in order to avoid urinary tract infections. In case of air travelling, there are some theories related to flying during pregnancy. Some doctors do not raise any objections during the second term while others may be against it. Unfortunately you have to follow your doctor's instructions. Certainly, it is much better to have short trip by a car than long flights. If you still hesitate, now you can make a decision to travel to destinations where a doctor may be easily reached. Considering above, exotic lands where medical care is limited should be put off.

dad:

You may keep wondering what kind of father you will be. What will you feel when you see your child for the first time? Will the baby "recognize" you? Will he or she recognize your voice? Surely the baby already loves you, in a childish way. Studies show that fathers play an important role in the family and children lives, particularly for their proper development. Children of fathers who engage in family life are likely to do better at school, have more developed social skills and establish relationships with their environment more quickly. Such children are also self-confident, cope more effectively with challenges, feel better in their lives as adults and have a greater tendency to have healthy partnerships. An interesting part of it is that daughters of more involved fathers have high self-esteem and start their sexual relationships later in comparison to those who have less involved fathers. The basic difference between babyren who have involved fathers and those whose fathers are absent is that the former babyren are loved, adored, well-groomed, and stimulated by two loving adults. These make them more self-confident, intelligent, and sociable. Certainly, it is not to deny influence of mothers in bringing up children but it shows you an importance of your role in your baby's life regardless of the baby's age. Do not to forget it!

Week 17

baby:

Tiny ears of your baby move to final locations and settle to let your baby hear. Plenty of sounds may be heard when the baby stays inside! Your strong heart beating, blood in your veins, and your stomach problems are heard… The baby is already able to recognise outer sounds, e.g. your voice or music, though it cannot differentiate yet your voice from amongst others. Your baby weighs about 100 grams and measures about 11-12 cm.

mom:

As the baby still grows and your skin stretches you may experience a prickly sensation. Your abdomen may change its position and you can feel some pain in your back. But these are not all the changes which your body will be exposed to during pregnancy. Majority of these have not got any direct relation to growing abdomen. You may have some problems with bleeding gums as the amount of blood in your body has increased suddenly to deliver more nutrients to the foetus. Increase in blood volume along with gum oedema causes bleeding. To make things even worse, you may get stretch marks at the very moment. It is conditioned genetically whether you get those stretch marks or not. Even if you use increased amount of anti-stretch mark creams you may have these. Luckily, most of them will disappear when the baby is born. An increase in body mass is quite natural and you can expect to put on about 12-15 kg. Considering the weight of the baby, such increase may be petrifying. You have to keep in mind that bodily fluids, blood, and placenta constitute most of the increase. If you follow a healthy diet and not eat "for two" but "for two’s sake", you should be able to get to your shape from pre-pregnancy time. Just be patient! An another indication of your pregnancy is a darkened line running from your belly button to your pubic bone. This spot will probably fade shortly after delivery. Water is retained in your body in order to provide it to your developing baby. For this reason you may feel a bit swollen. Keep your legs up when you relax. Remember to drink plenty of liquids.

dad:

When your partner is carrying your baby inside you may feel helpless. A man cannot help her pregnant partner with frequent visits to the toilet, with sleeplessness, or nausea. Some men show hypersensitivity about all the changes that happen to their partner’s body as they are afraid that all those may have negative impact on the unborn child. Others prefer not to involve claiming that women are able to manage their pregnancies. Many others act as if they were against their partners joking about their appearance or the amount of food they eat. Such extreme emotions result basically from a sense of helplessness to their partner’s pregnancy. Some of them are overreacting, others ignore actions of mothers-to-be but the best solution at the moment is to support her as much as you can. Most of all, try to relieve her of all duties. Bring her snacks and water which all the time she should keep. Help her with domestic chores and find more time to relax. Give her foot or back massage to minimise pains. Touch her and cuddle as many times as possible. Remember that she needs strongly your constant presence. All you do at the moment is also done for your baby. Your ardent intimacy indicates increased involvement in the pregnancy.

Week 18

baby:

In this week other senses of your baby ripe. The baby already hears your heartbeat and outer voices, for example your voice. It may also be more sensitive to certain sounds. At this moment the baby is so tiny that there is plenty of space to move freely.

mom:

Between 16-th and 20-th weeks you will probably have to make series of genetic testing. These tests are recommended but not mandatory. Before you make a decision if those are necessary for you, you must get to know why these are performed. First of all, these are not real tests, but rather risk assessment. You cannot read the results as unambiguously positive or negative. The tests are performed in order to eliminate the risk of certain genetic illnesses. If the result is positive it does not warn you against foetus problems but it means that you are supposed to proceed with further tests. There are some invasive and non-invasive genetic testing. The former ones are based mainly on blood testing. Test quad is performed to test some hormones and proteins in blood. These tests are performed to discover Down syndrome or spina bifida at unborn baby. You have to remember that test accuracy never reach one hundred percent and you are not supposed to panic in case of "positive" result. Nuchal scan is a combination of USG scan and blood test. It is highly specialist test and, unfortunately, not performed in all locations. That is why you will probably have to go to the other location to get this test. Your blood sample may be tested for mucoviscidosis in order to check if you are CF (cystic fibrosis) carrier. In case the result is positive, probably your partner will be tested as well. A positive result in both parents carries a risk of cystic fibrosis in a child of about 25%. Some genetic tests are more appropriate for some ethnic groups. Your medical history should be taken in order to refer you to special tests and eliminate a risk of certain illnesses.

dad:

As a father-to-be you may not be so much involved into relation with the baby as your partner does. In order to establish such relation with unborn baby you could speak, or sing a song, or read to the belly. The baby inside can already hear outer sounds, thus if you are lucky, it may react to your voice and response with kicking. You may think that speaking to the belly is pathetic. You could not be more wrong! When you speak to the belly you have got the opportunity to accompany your partner and to have intimate relations between you three. When speaking and singing to your unborn baby you start thinking about him as a tiny human being. It is not scientifically proved that baby inside is able to differentiate voices. Nevertheless, the more you talk to the baby, the more chance you have got that it will recognise your voice when it is born.

Week 19

baby:

In 19-th week all the baby's organs still grow. The body is covered with sticky lanugo. This white, viscous substance protects the baby's skin against prolonged bath in amniotic fluid. Premature babies are all covered with lanugo while babies born on time are not covered with it at all. The doctor can hear the baby's heartbeat using stethoscope pressed to your belly.

mom:

Your abdomen, week by week, becomes bigger and bigger. You may become tired much quicker. Try to save your energy. Abdomen and spine pain may annoy you in relation to your increasing body mass. Morning nausea abated but now you may experience heartburn and indigestion. How to enjoy visible belly? Why not having fun with pregnancy clothes? Not long time ago, the selection of pregnancy clothes was rather modest. Since some film stars have started proudly presenting their bellies, being pregnant became fashionable and thus designs for pregnant women are available. Currently, wider selections of pregnancy clothes are available. Pregnancy jeans with elastic and whale-sized T-shirt went out of date. The main disadvantage is that you cannot afford all clothes as sooner or later you will not need them. Try to be reasonable when choosing your apparel. Anyway, you can buy more accessories!

Many pregnant women are still active as they used to be earlier and go to fitness clubs or for a drink, in the form of a nutritious juice, with their friends. If you feel like doing so, go to fitness classes or a beautician. One of good ideas would be to arrange pregnancy photo session. A professional make-up and a new hairstyle in a beautiful scenery would become both great memento for the future and great opportunity to feel really beautiful! And remember! Take care of yourself. Take a nap as many time as possible. Do not save on conditioning cosmetics which may cheer you up. Follow healthy diet but, do not deny eating at all. Your meals should be nourishing but rich in vitamins and nutrients that are the most important at the moment for you and your baby!

dad:

Some pregnant women compare themselves to the celebrities that are pregnant at the same time. They seem to feel an exceptional relationship when experiencing similar sensations. Famous fathers also getting easier to notice. Our society is also becoming increasingly open to men who are proud and committed in the family life. Dads become more and more open-mindnd and eagerly express their feelings and involvement. They talk about their doubts and fears. They support their partners, participate in childbirth, go for walks with their children, take care of them and feed them. Only by actively participating in your child's life will you really get to know them. Soon you will notice that each time you meet any other parent, you tend to talk about babies. Try to make an attempt to be as much open to your fatherhood as possible. Discuss your anxieties with your partner. Keep in mind that your baby will take advantage of your involvement and, definitely, will repay for it.!

Week 20

baby:

In this week your baby is preparing for the next crucial step. Just now, all outstanding internal organs develop and start to function properly. Kidneys are properly located and shaped in a form of beans. Reproductive organs may be already placed properly. The brain forms and grows. The teeth are also ready to grow in the future. The foetus swallowing reflex is developed. Majority of mums in this week experience baby's movements. They even feel the baby's kicking. If you have not still experienced any movements of your baby, do not worry as this week, or in consecutive weeks, it is highly probable you may feel it!

mom:

In this week you are able to experience intense movements of the baby and probably to differentiate between kicks and hiccups. Braxton Hicks contractions may appear, additionally. Random and painless contractions may be perceived as a sign that your body is being prepared to the labour. If you feel more than 5 contractions per hour and these appear in constant intervals you have to call the doctor immediately. Is having sex allowed when you are pregnant? Certainly yes, in case of a normal pregnancy. If any contraindications occurred before for the purpose to minimise bleeding or potential of miscarriage, now having sex is totally safe. Primarily, sexual intercourses let you both blow off steam and establish your intimate relations. Don't worry about the safety of your baby - sex during pregnancy is not a danger for the foetus. After all, you feel comfortable in your maternity clothes and are proud to inform everyone that you will be a mother soon! Truly, you are halfway! Now, the baby's movements and fidgeting may be caused by more frequent hiccups. Unfortunately, in consecutive weeks when the baby grows you may experience some pains, especially in the lower back. Heartburn, indigestion, and frequent flatulence are caused by diminishing space for your stomach. Swelling that is a result of water retention may cause you feel more helpless. Mid-pregnancy is the time you will probably undergo the most important USG scan. Except that you will get to know that your baby develops correctly, your doctor will also keep you informed about the sex of the baby. Ultrasound scanning is safe examination during pregnancy. The doctor applies some gel on your abdomen and then slides a special equipment onto it. This equipment is to emit ultrasound and as a result a picture of your inside is displayed on the monitor. In this week, in the course of the examination your doctor will be able to recognise the baby's sex. If you do not want to know it, please do remember to keep your doctor informed. In order to determine the sex, your doctor will spot his attention on three short lines placed between the baby's legs. These would indicate that you are going to have a girl! In case of a boy, developing penis and scrotum will be visible. If the baby is too lively in the course of USG scanning or turns its back the doctor will not be able to determine the sex!

Many pregnant women are still active as they used to be earlier and go to fitness clubs or for a drink, in the form of a nutritious juice, with their friends. If you feel like doing so, go to fitness classes or a beautician. One of good ideas would be to arrange pregnancy photo session. A professional make-up and a new hairstyle in a beautiful scenery would become both great memento for the future and great opportunity to feel really beautiful! And remember! Take care of yourself. Take a nap as many time as possible. Do not save on conditioning cosmetics which may cheer you up. Follow healthy diet but, do not deny eating at all. Your meals should be nourishing but rich in vitamins and nutrients that are the most important at the moment for you and your baby!

dad:

A boy or a girl? That is the question. Do you want to know the sex of your baby? That is a serious decision to be made. Before you visit the doctor, talk to your partner and determine if you are willing to wait or want to find the name for your baby and some proper clothes right now. Some couples refuse to recognise the sex of their babies until these are born. Surely, this uncertainty is going to make the delivery even more exceptional and surprising. For some, getting to know the gender of the baby is in turn an opportunity to ensure that more to prepare for the birth and adoption of the baby at home. For you, as a father-to-be, determination of the baby's sex may be also crucial to establish proper relationship, to visualise your baby, to ponder over who the baby is going to resemble, and the type of plays (and toys!) you will let the baby.

Week 21

baby:

In this week, the skin of the baby starts to fill up with thin fat layers. This tissue is to keep the baby warm and protect him from becoming cold after birth. The baby is still covered with lanugo. The eyelids are still closed and that makes you think the baby is sleeping all the time but you could not be further from the truth as the movements and kicks are the proof that the baby is alerted. You may also experience the baby's hiccups.

mom:

At this stage your body has got accustomed to the new life inside. Changing moods will not occur so frequently but you may be worried with your future professional carrier, the labour, and the changes that are going to occur in your life when you become a mother. You do not need to wait until the delivery to establish this exceptional contact with your baby. You might have noticed that the baby moves in certain times or reacts uniquely when listening to specific music. Observing the baby's reactions to various sounds you may be able to determine his personality. Talk to your baby! According to some research, the baby's heart beating accelerates when hearing the mothers voice. You may help the baby recognise your voice while talking, singing or reading aloud. You can encourage other members of your family to do it. Your partner or other babyren may talk to the belly as well. Start filling your book case with babyren books. You may start reading fairytales to your baby even before it is born. Though it may seem strange, remember that your voice may be soothing. Listen to music along with the baby! You know now that your baby is already able to hear various sounds. You can listen to music together. Play some of your favourite songs and check which of these will make the baby react more enthusiastically, fidget more intensely, or kick. Preparing yourself for the baby's birth is equally exciting. Selection of the baby's room wall colours, purchase of a cot, furniture, and other accessories can make you amused when you are expecting. Choosing the baby's clothes, especially as there have been huge selection of these can be really amusing. All tiny socks and rompers are very touching not only for a mother-to-be!

Remember that many pregnant women are still active as they used to be earlier and go to fitness clubs or for a drink, in the form of a nutritious juice, with their friends. If you feel like doing so, go to fitness classes or a beautician. One of good ideas would be to arrange pregnancy photo session. A professional make-up and a new hairstyle in a beautiful scenery would become both great memento for the future and great opportunity to feel really beautiful! And remember! Take care of yourself. Take a nap as many time as possible. Do not save on conditioning cosmetics which may cheer you up. Follow healthy diet but, do not deny eating at all. Your meals should be nourishing but rich in vitamins and nutrients that are the most important at the moment for you and your baby!

dad:

Carrying some extra kilos may be exhaustive for pregnant woman. Dealing with everyday duties and increased weight may be the reason for extreme exhaustion to your partner. The activities that earlier did not trouble your partner, such as going upstairs, may now be tiring and frustrating. It also happens that some women are banned from walking at all and to keep the pregnancy, must lie. If your partner faces these troubles remember to give her as much support and make her feel comfortable as it is needed. When you face some troubles during pregnancy it is stressful for both your partner and yourself. To help her you need to be flexible and creative. If she has to stay in bed, provide her with as much stuff as possible like good book, film, or music. And do not forget about water and meals also. Remember that taking care about your partner provides her with a sense of security and certainty that the baby will be born in a perfect health condition. Take care of yourself as well. Potential pregnancy complications and focusing on childbirth is stressful for fathers also. Quite often they do not want to put any more stress on their partners. Talk to your friends, family, and other fathers. Try not to separate from your acquaintances and, first of all, from your partner. Spend now as much time with her as possible. Make yourselves comfortable and move the entire stress away. Focus on your love that has made you follow the same path.

Week 22

baby:

The baby's brain is growing daily. In this week, the baby's senses develop more and more. The baby can already hear various sounds and your breath. Its lungs are more and more formed and the sense of touch has started to develop. During USG scanning you may see your baby touching its face and sucking its thumb. Swallowing reflex has been developed as the baby is able to swallow amniotic fluid though the first meal will be given not earlier than after the birth.

mom:

The baby is developing more and more intensely so you can now feel his movements all the time. Also your body experiences more and more the life that has been growing inside. Additionally, pregnancy hormones have direct impact on stomach and bowels function thus you may feel uncomfortable because of heartburn or stomach ache. Your bladder is under constant pressure thus you go to the toilet more frequently. Growing abdomen may make you get skeleton pains; when you wear uncomfortable shoes these may heighten your swelling. What about intimacy? Some women now feel more attractive than in the pre-pregnancy period. Increased breast, more delicate skin, and small pregnancy abdomen make your libido enhanced. Hormone fluctuations may, additionally, make you willing to get queer meals, e.g. ice-cream with pickles, and have sex more frequently. You need to remember that those fluctuations may differ and occur at various times even from hour to hour. Increased appetite for sex may also be caused by release from the pressure that had been related to child conception, especially if you tried hard previously. Your intimacy is your measure to express closeness and mutual care including emotional closeness that is very much needed by both of you. A delicate massage, kisses, and cuddling will enable you to get defused and feel that your partner is here especially for you. The reason why you may feel uncomfortable during your sexual intercourses is the care for your baby. If you have not got any problems with your pregnancy, such as placenta previa, having sex will not be harmful to the baby.

dad:

When she is pregnant, the intimacy between you and your partner is an exceptional circumstance. It is not only about having sex. Some couples feel uncomfortable when having sex with pregnant partner as they are afraid of "injuring" the baby. Usually, doctors do not see any reason why you should not have sex during pregnancy thus you can enjoy your intimacy It is also very important to remember that intimacy between two people is not only sex, but also spending time together - cuddling, kissing or just talking, lying next to each other, watching a film together. The key is to spend time together as creatively as possible. After the birth, your life will become more chaotic and you will have different priorities, so it is good that you now devote a lot of attention to each other and enjoy each other.

Week 23

baby:

Your baby's all organs have already developed; these are placed in proper locations. The baby's cycle of the day is also more regular but unfortunately it is often quite different from yours. In the day the baby is quite calm; however in the night he starts to move more heavily when you are willing to fall asleep. Soon your baby's hearing will be acute. According to some researches, the babies that hear some sounds in uterus, such as dog's barking, or hair drier, will not be surprised with these sounds when they are born. Week 23-th is an another milestone in the baby's life. If the baby is born now the chance to survive increases. As per researches, in 23-th week 25-35% of babyren may survive, while in 26-27-th week even 90% of the babies have a chance to survive!

mom:

You may feel that there is a kind of a boxer, who fights inside walls, rather than the baby in your abdomen. The baby kicks and attacks so frequently that even your family and friends are able to see that. Your fears related to labour and a joy of expectation at the same time will bring you sudden emotional fluctuations from euphoria to dark conceptions. All those, along with rib pains caused by boxing, may make you sleepless. That is why you possibly read this phrase at 4 o'clock in the morning. What about premature contradictions? More or less 7% to 10% of all pregnant women experience pre-mature contradictions that, usually, may trigger off premature labour. It happens from time to time in the second term; however the most frequently these occur in the third term. You will probably get some medicines to minimise premature contradictions. If these are not working you may be referred to the hospital to be under constant medical care.

dad:

Your fears related to your situation when the baby is born probably still last. You may have some expectations related to your feelings and your relation with the baby after birth. It is said that the first feeling of men are quite different from those expected. Majority of men imagine that they could feel strong relationship and love towards the baby when they see them for the very first time. Unfortunately, establishing mutual relationship may last a bit longer, even a couple of days or even months. At the beginning, when you have your baby in your hands, you may not feel anything special, which is often quite embarrassing for some men. You are keeping your baby and you know you love your baby but it seems you should feel much more. These hard feelings may even deepen when you work quite away from home and your partner cares about the baby 24/7. It is sad that plenty of them feel much the same but just few of them are able to talk about it. Lack of chances and willingness to discuss the problem may deepen the embarrassment and confirm fathers in their erroneous beliefs. Instead of getting nervous and giving up, try to maintain the relationship and keep yourself engaged. This will be the basis to further relationship with the baby. One day, you and your baby will be feeling like special ones. One day, when looking at your child, you will feel it. Before you know it, your relationship with the baby will be obvious and unquestionable.

Week 24

baby:

In 24-th week your baby is almost "complete". Its skin is still very thin and creased but the baby looks like a miniature of itself after birth. The baby's face is finally developed but the eyelids are still closed. The baby has got eyebrows, nails, and possibly hair.

mom:

Hopefully, you stick to a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and carry out some exercises! Remember, all those activities are recommended to prevent yourself against premature labour. First of all, remember proper hydration that is to help not only moisturise the foetus properly, but also to provide healthy condition to your skin. In this week you may feel joint pain, related to relaxation of ligaments, itching in the skin that still stretches in order to make some space to the baby, and swollen feet because of water retention in he body. Unfortunately, all those symptoms are quite normal and typical in this week. What about exercises? You have to keep in mind that when you are pregnant you do not have those exercise to loose weight or to slim down. When you are pregnant you have those exercises to feel better and to prepare for the labour. Here are some ailments that may be minimised when you have some exercises:- back pains – attending yoga for pregnant women you may improve your figure and strengthen back muscles, which probably hurt at the moment because of huge abdomen. - oedema and swelling – having exercises favours better blood circulation and thus minimise swelling.- stress minimisation - there is no better manner to de-stress than during open-air activities!- preparation for the labour – regular exercises strengthen muscles and prepare your body to the labour. If these are carried out in a proper manner you have got more chance to get to the shape upon delivery. How to take up exercises? Before you start your exercises, even if you practised regularly in the pre-pregnancy period and you are sure about your potentials, consult your doctor as he will be able to advise particular exercises and possibly recommend any good spot to carry these out. Plenty of fitness clubs and sport centres offer some activities for pregnant women. If you have not practised walking previously, you can do it now. Have some 20-minute walking for a couple of days a week and you will feel much better! Practising some sports, such as skiing, tennis, and other sports that require your sudden position change and jumping, should be avoided when you are pregnant, for example aerobics or springboard diving. If you have any doubts as to whether the sport you want to practice is the right one, it is best to ask your doctor about it. Remember that sport during pregnancy is supposed to help you feel better and stay fit, not lose weight! When you are pregnant you do not respond to the pace of the exercises being practised and plenty of organs, e.g. lungs, have not got enough space thus you may become short of breath quickly.

dad:

Couvade syndrome, that is sympathetic pregnancy. It is strange but true! Some men experience symptoms and pregnancy pains along with their partners. This strange emphatic manner for co-experiencing pregnancy may include, among others, increase in body weight. It is not unusual that when the baby is born, this increase may be even larger. This is caused by lack of sleep, stress, and lack of healthy or regular meals, as it used to be. You have got nine months to develop appropriate dietary habits and take up games involving physical movement - all as part of preparation to welcoming the baby. This is to increase chances to continue practising when the baby is born. You can go for a walk with your partner after your supper. Not only is it going to be a good chance to move your body but to talk about your fears and every issues that you are afraid of or amused by as well. If you did not stick to healthy diet previously, this is the best time, for example, to introduce more vegetables to it. Remember that when the baby is born, it may be too late to introduce any changes. Obviously, your partner's health condition is the most important issue at the moment but yours is equally significant! You have to be strong, even stronger then herself! Live this time as if it was spring-cleaning, change your habits, and take care of yourself to enjoy your fatherhood.

Week 25

baby:

In this week the baby's lungs develop rapidly, though if it is born now, probably, the respiratory system must have been supported by medical assistance. The respiratory system still develops – nostrils are open but not used yet until the baby is born. The baby's sexual organs have been formed finally. The skin is still transparent and creased. Not only is your voice heard by the baby but your rumbling stomach as well. Your baby becomes more and more aware of his moving abilities. In this week fingers and toes can be moved.

mom:

Along with the foetus development some pains may be intensified. You may feel some contractions or tingling in the legs. The reason for these is not clear. It is said that these may be caused by a change in blood circulation, or pressure on some muscles, or too extensive seating in a position. You may also experience some pains in the groins. Why sleeping is troublesome? Besides tiredness, additionally you have got some problems with sleep. On one hand, you need a lot of rest now, and on the other hand, sleeping with a growing belly is becoming more and more difficult. First of all, the growing belly makes it more and more difficult for you to find the right position to sleep. If you used to sleep on your back or abdomen, now you will have to sleep on your side. Lying in bed on your side is recommended as the most advantageous position for both mum and baby. Sleeping on your side makes organs function properly and make your blood deliver oxygen and nutrients to the placenta. You may have problems with breathing and it definitely makes resting difficult. When you are pregnant your uterus increases and puts pressure on the other organs. Your lungs have to expand within decreased space in the course of breathing, thus you take shallow and more frequent breaths. Growing baby makes you going more frequent to the toilet. Do not be surprised if you have to go to the toilet in the night several times. Have you got indigestion problems? Your growing abdomen puts pressure on your stomach as well and you have got used to it. You are more exposed to heartburns now. Pregnancy hormones inhibit your digestion thus food lies heavy on your stomach. It is worth to divide your meals into smaller portions, eat more frequently yet smaller amounts. It is said that pregnant women have more clear dreams in comparison to pre-pregnancy time. Apparently, such dreams may make your naps more appealing as well as shake you out of it.

dad:

Your and your partner's life will become changed significantly when the baby is born. At the moment the baby stays inside your belly and you two have got some time to enjoy yourselves. When the baby is born, for a couple of months or even years, you will not have too much free time. When was the very last time your partner went to a beautician? She may be used to going regularly to her hairdresser, but has she had any time for it recently? Is she fond of having massage or may be dreaming about spa relaxation? Give her a present to let her relax and leave everything behind. If she feels better, you and your unborn baby will make a profit on it! Persuade her female friends and women in the family to arrange so called "baby shower". It is good to go out with your friends sometimes! You can suggest some gifts for the baby or indicate things that have been still missing and that would be useful. When planning some relaxation for your partner do not forget about yourself! Fathers-to-be deserve for massage or spa relaxation as well. Just think about the things that would make you feel exceptionally. Plan some events for yourself in the coming weeks. The healthier and happier you and your partner are the happier will be your baby!

Week 26

baby:

In the course of 26-th week, your baby may open the eyes though majority of them have their eyes closed until the delivery. Your baby is still tiny. In appearance the baby may seem to be finally formed but the brain and lungs are still developing in this tiny body thus until the delivery you have got some time to proceed with certain issues.

mom:

Are you searching for any manner to minimise back pains? Swinging your pelvis is a practical exercise for easing back pains, enhancing pelvis, and diminishing stress. To proceed with this exercise, press your back to the wall keeping your knees lightly bent, take a deep breath, and press lightly the back against the wall at the same time. Exhale and relax. Repeat it 10 times. The second term is nearly finished. You may have noticed swelling on your face, feet, and hands. This swelling is caused by the fact that your body retains plenty of water. As the amount of blood has increased in your body, venous circulation worsens, the veins located under the skin are more fleshy and widened thus tendency to varicose veins occur. You may experience teeth over-sensitivity and gum bleeding in the course of brushing. Try to relax. Having massage is a good idea for relaxation. Before you make an appointment with massage therapist ask about his experience in massaging pregnant women. Some positions and techniques may make you uncomfortable and unpleasant for you and the baby. Experienced massage therapist will know how to ease your back pain and not to harm your baby. If you are worried about body massage, just choose manicure or pedicure. Such treatment will surely make you relaxed and more beautiful especially in case you have some problems with cutting and painting your nails because of protruding belly and hand swelling. Your partner can also play the part of massage therapist. Look for massage instruction on YouTube, or DVDs. It may also be an amazing time for intimacy and an occasion to enjoy your bodies. You could go to spa for a weekend where you and your partner would relax together. Plenty of spa resorts offer special packages for expecting couples thus you will surely be able to find an appropriate location for yourself! If you want to learn to relax, first of all, you need to have time for it! Skim your timetable and check which activities you could abandon. Try to include only those activities that are absolutely necessary to your timetable. You have to learn how to ease up

dad:

Are you able to receive a new member of your family at your home? Which improvements do you need to apply at home to be ready for the coming baby? The bigger is the partner's belly, the bigger pressure you may feel. As a father-to-be you are evolutionarily programmed to provide your family with a certain standard of living. You are probably stressed by your bank account balance, but also the health condition of your partner, especially when you become a father for the very first time. Now is the best time to fight stress and make yourself more energetic as this energy will be inevitable when facing everyday troubles upon the childbirth. Try to find some time exclusively for yourself. Listen to music and read your favourite magazine. Try to engage into anything that have a positive effect on you and makes you feel better. Gym exercise or early jogging may bring you a lot of energy for the entire day. When the baby comes, your life will become more chaotic. The rhythm of the day and the amount of time just for yourself will also change.

Week 27

baby:

In 27-th week your baby grows quicker and quicker and intensely puts on weight. The baby visibly reacts to stimuli such as light or sound. Eyebrows and eyelashes have developed as well as hair on the head. The baby's brain constantly develops and creases. This is the time when the baby sleeps nearly all the day - approximately 15 hours a day. Unfortunately, it is irregular sleep. The baby does not always sleep when you are sleeping. Surely you sense the baby's movements at various intensities. Depending on the type of your meal you may expect some reaction such as the hiccups or heightened activity of the baby.

mom:

Between 24-th and 28-th weeks you should check your blood sugar level. If you have not had it still, probably during next appointment the doctor will carry out this testing through taking a blood sample from your finger or determine that on the basis of urine testing. Approx. 2% of all pregnant women suffer from so called gestational diabetes, but it is not necessary to be worried as when a woman sticks to carefully selected diet, takes medicines, and controls blood sugar level, she has proper pregnancy and healthy baby. The third term of the pregnancy is a good time to enrol in antenatal classes. Your belly becomes more and more visible and it may bring some problems with moving or bending. Your digestive system may suffer from constipation It is important to remember appropriate retention of your body. In this period, Braxton-Hicks contractions will occur many times also getting stronger. It is important not to panic and, at the same time, not to be afraid of going to the doctor if you think that anything is disturbing. In this period, hand and feet swelling become more intense and bothersome. Remember not to spend too much time in a sitting position. Do not avoid walking that can help you manage unpleasant ailments.

dad:

You have definitely noticed that your partner's belly became definitely more visible. The fact that you are going to become a father is more and more self-evident. This is the time of happiness but you have to be prepared for some other difficulties because growing belly may put your partner to troubles when moving her body or in the course of everyday actions. Ensure that your partner is not overtired. She may experience a surge of energy; however it is important not to exaggerate activeness. On the other hand, she should not entirely decline activities. Taking her for a short walk would be a good idea. This is a perfect moment to decide if you are willing to assist your partner during the labour. It is not easy but your presence at the birth may be very important to your partner. You should think about antenatal classes and selecting your midwife. Your partner may be upset about putting on weight and feel unattractive. All you need to do is to support her and ensure with your feelings towards her and your joy related to fatherhood. To divert her attention from less pleasant issues related to pregnancy you may make her busy with preparation a room and layette for your baby.

Week 28

baby:

The baby's brain still develops. In 28-th week the crucial issue is the development of the lungs that start to produce surfactant - the substance that enables your baby to breath properly. It is tighter and tighter in your belly and the baby's movements become limited. Nevertheless, the baby moves the limbs intensely and his facial expressions become clearer. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) appears at this point of the baby's development.

mom:

Pains in your back may be really oppressive and, except that, you may have problems with placing your body in a right position when you sleep. You may feel very tired, which certainly affects your behaviour - you may feel irritated. Remember to see your doctor more often - even as often as every two weeks. Do not be afraid to talk about your fears related to your pregnancy and your childbirth. Current placement of your uterus may cause some problems with breathing. In addition, you face difficulties when you move your body. It is important not to be beyond your strength and not get nervous about typical pregnancy symptoms. It is quite normal that you do not look the picture of health when pregnant.

dad:

One of those things that may surprise you at the moment is your partner's... snoring. Do not worry as it is quite natural symptom. Your partner may have some problems with breathing and, certainly, she gets tired quickly. Show your understanding towards her as her physical and mental state may make her annoyed. Do not be afraid to talk to the belly as your baby can hear your voice and react to it! It will enable you to establish an amazing relationship before the baby comes. Remind your partner about doctor's appointments as she will surely appreciate your involvement. Do not be also afraid to talk about your fears as this is really special time for you as well.

Week 29

baby:

The baby grows rapidly and all its limbs have been developed. Your baby is able to feel pains. Fatty tissue is deposited also. Considering the fact that uterus space has been decreasing, the baby's movements change. Instead of kicks you can feel some pushes. The head is growing and making place for enlarging brain. Similarly, the bones have been developed. That is why you need to stick to a healthy diet.

mom:

The delivery is coming. Of course you are overcome with joy but, certainly, you are worrying if the action is going to be according to the plan. You should not worry prematurely. Instead, try to concentrate on positive aspects of your pregnancy. Certainly, you will be disappointed by your clumsiness but keep in mind that this is quite normal when growing belly makes your everyday activities more difficult. It is a good time to ask for help from your loved ones and get used to the idea that help will also be useful - or perhaps most importantly - when your child is born. Think that you will soon be welcoming a small human being in the world, who will be completely dependent on you. You may still feel uncomfortable and may be accompanied by symptoms that you already know from the beginning of the third term. Try to relax, gather your strength and plan all the most important issues related to the childbirth.

dad:

The third term is not easy so you have to take care of her comfort and her needs. You need to be patient, especially when the baby comes. Your partner may have fitful sleeps as it is difficult to assume a comfortable position. If you attend a birthing school, you can find out how to help your partner, as well as many interesting facts about childcare and care. Even if you are not fully convinced of this type of activity - try it. Thanks to this knowledge you will be prepared for almost every situation, which will make you and your partner feel more confident.

Week 30

baby:

In this week, bone marrow takes over the function of erythrocyte production. All organs have been developed and these are functioning and preparing your baby to abandon your body. Lanugo has been disappearing. Since now, the brain takes over the function of body temperature control. Practically, it means that in case of premature delivery the chance to survive beyond mother's body increases. The volume of amniotic liquid will be no more increased but the baby still puts on weight, even 200 grams a week. The baby moves suddenly manifesting his presence. Except that, the baby may settle in a cephalic presentation and stay in this position till the delivery.

mom:

At this stage of your pregnancy your body experiences significant load occurring from the presence of dynamically developing baby. It is certain that you have been looking forward to the delivery as you are unable to manage on your own. It has not been long now. You have to be patient and remember to control your baby's movements. You still may experience some digestive ailments that result in, e.g., heartburns. Do not forget about proper hydration! You may feel increased sweating. In addition, the skin is still vulnerable to the formation of stretch marks, therefore ensure proper care. Don't forget about proper nutrition - your little one grows intensively, that's why it's so important that you provide him or her with the right ingredients. Let yourself be pampered and relieved, in the end: you are a future mother. Enjoy your growing belly and do not prevent yourself from emphasizing it with new clothes!

dad:

Changes that occur in your partner's body have become self-evident and it is impossible to ignore the growing belly. Devote your time to the belly and be generous with affection towards it. It is complicated but, at the same time, beautiful period in your life. In time you will appreciate the possibility to take part in those actions that are related to your childbirth. Ensure that you have bought all required stuff. The labour is coming and proper preparation is needed. Do you remember the very moment you got to know that you will become a father? Soon you will get an opportunity to carry the baby in your arms. Definitely, you have possessed theoretical knowledge and you know what to expect but remember that not everything may be planned. Do not be afraid that some issues will be surprising. You and your partner will have to learn plenty of things. Women act instinctively in such situations and that is why you cannot sustain pressure on yourself as everything will be OK with the passing of time.

Week 31

baby:

Your baby still puts on weight and its skin starts to stretch. At this stage of pregnancy, babies usually settle in a cephalic presentation. Its nervous system develops; some new networks between the cerebral cortex and various parts of the baby's body are established. Your baby is able to use his senses, and receive some signals that come from the outside. The baby gets the hiccups, pushes through your belly, and constantly makes faces! It can also suck your thumb .

mom:

Your baby gradually starts to change the position and settle in a cephalic presentation. Usually it occurs about 36-th week of foetal life. This is a good time to start getting things to take with you to the hospital and do the necessary shopping. Breast milk leaks may occur during this period, so nursing pads may be helpful. Considering uterus size, it is quite tight in your abdominal cavity. It has an impact on the placement of internal organs. You may loose your appetite or face difficulties with the size of your meals. To avoid unpleasant stomach complaints, have those meals that do not lead to constipation and indigestion.

dad:

You feel that due date is approaching. Even if you know that Braxton-Hicks contractions are quite normal you are still afraid that your baby is going to come too early. You do not need to worry and even if it happens the baby is already able to survive. the baby's body is entirely formed, internal organs function properly, and the baby puts on weight and stretches the hands and legs. You can feel those intense movements that may hurt a bit your partner. Calm her down and take care of her mental comfort as her mood have direct impact onto the baby's behaviour and senses. The very last weeks of your pregnancy are quite important and you possibly became a bit more nervous than previously. You ponder over your ability to change the baby's diaper and calm the baby down when he is crying, or even whether your support is sufficient, or whether you know everything that you are supposed to know at this stage. These innumerable questions are increasing and it may happen that you are infected by your partner's sleeping problems. Do not bother it. All fathers-to-be are puzzled if they can manage to take care of their babyren. The most important issue is to act as a team with your partner when taking care of the baby. Just as a real family.

Week 32

baby:

Your baby looks and gradually becomes as big as a newborn baby but still develops some abilities. That is why the baby should stay inside a bit longer. Your baby practises intensely, e.g., sucking the thumb or through respiratory movements. His face is getting round, the skin becomes soft and delicate. The baby acts as if he was already born. It means the baby sleeps, sucks the thumb, waggles, and mimes. The baby practises those movements that are going to be imitated upon birth! The respiratory system still develops in order to take the first breath when the baby is born. Your baby hears your heartbeat and possibly looks forward to see you.

mom:

Your belly has become really largish and makes you considerably uncomfortable but the thought that there is your baby inside makes amends for all your inconveniences. You may have some problems with balancing. You need to take care of yourself and relax. Do not forget to drink appropriate amount of liquids even if it increases the need to urinate. Your sleeping problems make you tired, helpless, and annoyed. It is quite good to have a rest. Collect power for the last stage of her pregnancy - soon you will be able to welcome home a new family member! Surely, you have already chosen a name and your family and friends are constantly asking you questions about your baby. You proudly present USG pictures that soon will be replaced by the infant's photos.

dad:

You certainly look forward to hearing your baby’s first distinct word, watching his first steps, your first Father's Day, and of course the first hand-made card from a playschool. All those wonderful moment are approaching and you feel excited about them. At the same time you do your best to make your partner as comfortable as possible in these days. The belly is huge and small space is available for your baby. It is no wonder that the baby is coming very soon and you are going to teach your baby day by day. Fatherhood is the most important role in your life! You will be responsible for this little human being; you will worry about your baby, spend time with him, and provide with all necessary things. How to be a good father? You are probably eager on being a perfect father but you have to keep in mind that it is not always easy. There are plenty of scenarios in your mind and you certainly know who you would like your baby to become in the future. What will be your baby like? Is the baby going to take after you or your partner? There are many unanswered questions but still you have to wait patiently.

Week 33

baby:

In this week, pupil's widening and narrowing reflex appear. This will enable the baby to react properly to the light or darkness. The baby still puts on weight; the immunological system is also formed. If the baby is energetic and fidgety at the moment it is possible that the baby will behave similarly after birth. The lungs are still intensely developing as well as the brain is. The volume of amniotic fluid got the maximum, that is approximately up to two litres and this is the reason why you can accurately feel all kicks and digs in the ribs as the fluid no longer cushions the baby's movements as it used to be. The bones are finally developed but skull bone will remain relatively flexible until the delivery in order to facilitate the baby's coming.

mom:

If you still work, it is time to stop. You need some time to prepare yourself for the labour. On the other hand, if you stayed at home you may feel a bit bored and you are eager on coming back to your previous activities. Do not worry, very soon you will take up many new activities such as breastfeeding, changing diapers, and long walks with your baby. Certainly, you will be missing your huge belly. Are you keen on celebrating your tot? You can occupy yourself with “baby shower” for your family and friends. It would be a good reason to share your joy with the relatives and acquaintances! When the baby is born you will not have too much time for yourself. Are you afraid of the labour? You cannot wait for it but, at the same time, you are afraid of the pain. You have heard all those stories related to scary labour and you get petrified. Considering the fact that majority of women get pregnant and decide to have another baby it should not be so hard, should it? It is far better to become positive and ponder over this marvellous moment when you keep your baby in your hands. Between 33-th and 37-th weeks you should have doctor's appointment in order to have necessary measurement and testing such as complete blood count or urinalysis.

dad:

Your labour is a number one topic and you probably have talked about the most critical issues but, still, you cannot calm down entirely. You have determined all the issues and you probably know if you are going to assist her partner during the labour. You have probably got to know how labours run and you understand how important it is to accompany your partner and keep her hand during the delivery. You know that this is not the best time for both of you. Observing the action, her pain, and all these extreme emotions may be really hard. It may happen that your labour will not be as quick and painless as you would like it to be but it is a major issue to be ready to comfort her even when you, as well, get to be nervous. You have to remain cool regardless what happens as your partner will need to have somebody special who is able to take over the situation. Your partner needs to feel safe and kept by beloved and supportive person.

Week 34

baby:

Braxton-Hicks contractions that make you worried may be a nice form of massage for your baby! The baby should have assumed its final position in the uterus. If the baby has not settled in cephalic presentation still there is some time for it. Anyway, you have to be aware that if it does not occur, and it is your first labour, probably it will be necessary to have the baby by Caesarean. If you expect to have a boy, in this week the baby's testicles are slipping down from abdominal cavity to the scrotum. Equally important at this moment is the development of the adrenal gland. If the baby comes now, probably it would be totally healthy and its development would not be disturbed. The digestive system of your baby has been finally developed and it is ready for breastfeeding. The only potential problem would be the respiratory system which still has been developing.

mom:

The belly still enlarges and your baby manifests its discontentment very bluntly with cramped conditions. Kicks and lets us know that it would like to come into the world and gain new space in the form of a comfortable cradle. Remember to check your baby's blood pressure regularly and to monitor your baby's movements. Digestive system ailments have made your life a misery. Do not forget about drinking suitable amount of fibre. At this stage you have possibly made your decision related to the way you want to give birth and talked to your doctor and the midwife about all crucial issues. Certainly, you have been flooded with information related to the labour, water birth advantages, or a home birth. You have considered all the options and now you know what can be expected. Additionally, you can see your partner's fervour and involvement who acts as if it was him who is pregnant.

dad:

The closer the birth the more difficult it is to concentrate. Your partner's general state is the most important issue and you look forward to this key moment. You bounce up any time she feels pain, contraction, or at least a bit more intense movement of the baby. It is good to let your employer know about the delivery date and determine who will be kept informed that the baby has come. It is going to be more difficult when you get carried away by your emotions. You have selected your hospital, talked about birth details and your expectations. You have probably asked rookie dads everything you could and gathered all the necessary information. Why do you think all the issues are disjointed? Because childbirth is basically chaotic issue. Anyway, it can be controlled! Do not worry even if it is your first childbirth as all doctors, midwives, and other hospital employees are entirely experienced and they know how to proceed to prevent from complications. You can rely on them and be patient. You have waited for the baby for so long. The birth itself will not bring you as much excitement as those months when you have stared at your partner's belly and pondered over the actions and development of your baby inside.

Week 35

baby:

The baby's fatty tissue in 35-th week still increases in order to keep maintain proper temperature after the birth. Similarly to lungs, the baby's nervous cells are going to develop practically till the birth. Your baby still puts on weight, approximately 250 grams a week. Significant amount of iron, necessary for production of red blood cells, is stored in the baby's body. This is why following proper diet is very important. Immunological system still develops. This is the next way to get used to living outside the mum's womb. The baby is peeing more and more as his kidneys are finally formed. In case of multiple pregnancy, you could have given birth earlier and you enjoy your babyren at your side at the moment.

mom:

Increased amount of vagina discharge and pains in the lower back reflect on approaching labour. The most obvious symptom of childbirth is mainly uterine contractions, but in addition, amniotic fluid ("waters") can break earlier. You are prepared for this most important moment, although you are not able to predict when exactly it will happen. Uncertainty is stressful but remember that being stressed is disadvantageous for you and your baby. Ensure that everything is ready and that your hospital bag has been packed. Have your mobile within reach to be ready to all your partner up and go to the hospital. If you are worried that your baby is not moving enough in your belly, go to a hospital to have a heart rate test (CTG) just in case. It will help you calm down. It will be probably this week or the following week when the cervix will be examined to see if it has already started to shorten, potentially posing a risk of preterm birth. It is also important to have a vaginal streptococcus test that week, of which you will surely be informed by your doctor.

dad:

Your partner's diet is still important as it needs to include an increased amount of iron. Provide her with red meat, sufficient amount of green vegetables, dairy products, and fish. Considering digestive problems, eating may make her suffering now but do not let her cut down on meals! Your partner may now start to panic, especially with regard to the baby's movements which are very limited in terms of restricted space in her uterus. If she is seriously worried about it, do not hesitate and take her to the doctor in order to dispel her doubts. Certainly, you do not want her to get nervous unnecessarily as the very moment is approaching. Telling the truth, the labour may start immediately. Increased vigilance may be tiresome but it is necessary. Somebody will be responsible for taking her to the hospital, keeping an eye on all the stuff that is going to be taken to the hospital and, quickly and under pressure, fulfilling in everything that is missing. And it is going to be you! Men wrongly assume that their role in the course of pregnancy and labour is not as essential as women's. Meanwhile, a support from the beloved one is definitely priceless!

Week 36

baby:

Your baby is ready to come as all organs and systems function properly. These are developed to an extent to let the baby live independently. Needless to say, readiness to leave mum's belly should be regarded as individual preference and not all the babyren reach this stage at the same moment. The baby still improves his movements, for example gripping reflex. The baby's hearing has become very sensitive as he knows your voice and the sound of your heartbeat which will make the baby calm down after the birth. Vernix is disappearing.

mom:

Your bladder is pushed even harder and you have to go to the toilet more frequently. Additionally you suffer from pain in the lower back. Your hip joints are getting relaxed before the birth. Because of that. you may feel pain in the joints. Remember about regular visits to the doctor. Your last USG scan should be carried out between 30-th and 37-th week. At this time an initial weight of the baby will be determined. Approximate baby's weight will enable to estimate your chance to give natural childbirth and plan further actions.

dad:

Calm down as you may become a father at any moment! You have been thinking about it for the last nine months and you have imagined yourself as a father and even if you did not feel it you have already prepared yourself to give warm welcome to your baby. Though it is not easy all you can do now is to wait. Your partner must be extremely tired and totally sensitive to potential symptoms of labour pains. Check one more time if all the stuff is ready in the hospital bag as this will have to remain within reach in the key moment. Your family cannot wait any longer, your friends are asking if it started, and for you time is passing too slow. Think of your partner as she eagerly would like to have it behind her.

week 37

baby:

That is a key moment! It is said that after 37-th week, it is a full-term pregnancy. It will make you calm down and not be afraid of potential premature labour. The most important issue is that the lungs have been finally developed and product sufficient amount of surfactants to let the baby breath upon the delivery. The baby still matures and practises all reflexes and sharpens its senses.

mom:

It is a full-term pregnancy, the baby's weight exceeds 2500 grams and you are ready to give the birth. One of the very last decisions to be made is that related to having an enema before labour. It is not comfortable but lets you avoid unpleasant situation in the course of labour. Shaving your perineal area is optional. If you do not get Caesarean you will have to shave your pubic symphysis. Of course you need some help because of your protruding belly. Getting an epidural is a crucial issue. You do not have to get it but it is comfortable solution for those who are terribly afraid of pain related to labour. Remember that you do not need to have everything under control as you are not alone. You are provided with professional care from the doctors and you are under non-professional but loving attention from your partner.

dad:

You should arrange some foodstuff before the labour as you will not be willing and have the strength to do it in the first days of the baby's life as you need to stay with the baby nearly all the time. Discuss getting an epidural issue with your partner as she may want to make some final decisions with you. Ensure her with your support and readiness to stay at her side all the time. After the birth you will be the person who is going to be burdened with domestic tasks. You do not need to be perfect, just take care of things to let your partner have some rest as the last months were not easy for her.

Week 38

baby:

The baby still gradually puts on weight and develops. Vernix and lanugo are disappearing. Your baby looks like a newborn baby and waits to be welcome. Surfactant is constantly produced. It enables your baby to breath when it is born. Very limited space is available to your baby and that is why its energetic movements are restricted. Instead, the baby jostles and fidgetes. Your baby's weight is approximately 3200 grams and its height is about 50 centimetres. These are the last moments in the mother's womb as the baby is about to come. Probably, the baby has settled in a proper position and all you can do is to wait until the decision to leave the mother's womb will be made.

mom:

Are you still not able to differ between Braxton-Hicks from labour contractions? If those contractions do not subside when you assume your position and hot bath does not help, it means that your labour has just started. Labour contractions intensify, prolong, and get more regular. Cervix shortens and widens. Your breasts are fleshy and so called colostrum, which is the first food for the baby, may appear. As you can see, your body is ready and you can calm down. Everything has come to an end according to the plan and your baby is about to come home. Remember to collect all documents that will be required at the hospital. Remember about maternity notes and test results which you were given from your doctor.

dad:

It has been happening so much in your life since she is pregnant! She experienced all the allures and inconveniences in order to become a mother and give you a descendant. You look at her and you know that you have loved her even more than before. There is not any other tangible proof of your love than your baby. Expecting is hard but joyful at the same time. All the people were kept informed that you are going to become a dad. Remind her of collecting all the documents. It is needed in order to not be stressed when completing all formalities at the hospital. Ensure her that she is ready and that all the things are going to be OK. It will be OK! Your baby may be born before the due date as he is ready to come. You have been prepared for the very moment.

Week 39

baby:

Your baby's brain still develops intensely. Meconium, that is the first poo, has started to accumulate in the baby's bowels. The baby is entirely ready to come. Amount of amniotic fluid is getting decreased. Majority of babyren at this stage settle in proper position awaiting to come.

mom:

Except typical symptoms for your labour, such as contractions, some concomitant symptoms may appear such as nausea, diarrhoea, or so called blood effusion that is a discharge that contains some blood. Remember that it does not mean that you are going to give birth in a minute. It may last a couple of hours or even more! You may have to wait a bit longer and give birth after the due date. Do not worry as it is quite normal and you have to be patient. It has not been long.

dad:

It may be a question of hours or days. May it be a question of weeks? You cannot be sure of when your partner is going to give birth and you get nervous more and more. All those months you had to be cool and quickly control the situation. At that moment, when the baby is about to come, awaiting seems to be unbearable.

Week 40

baby:

These are the very last moments before the due date as the baby is about to come! Your baby attained proper size and weight. Through recent 266 days it developed very intensely in your womb. Now, it is time to leave this confined space and start to discover the external world. It may happen that the baby feels good in your belly and the delivery will not start within coming days.

mom:

It has been done! You were unbelievably patient and brave. Through the last nine months you proudly carried you baby in your belly. Now, the baby is finally coming! It is only a question of time. The time that is very short in comparison to the entire pregnancy duration. You cannot imagine you could be happier. Do not panic when you notice the first symptoms of delivery as you have still plenty of time to go to the hospital. It is important to be calm though pregnancy and labour do not support calmness at all. Telling the truth, the most incredible adventure of your life is about to begin in a minute. Welcoming this little creature will be full of emotions and thrills. Those first moments together will be the most precious recollections.

dad:

It has been done. For the last 40 weeks you have been preparing for this moment accompanying your partner during doctor's appointments, shopping, arranging the baby's room, and those hard moments. Your presence at her side is very important. It is even more important now then before as this labour is a great experience for both, or even three of you! It may take a couple of days before she gives birth. Labour itself may prolong also but you have been waiting for it and you are ready. Remember that she will be totally exhausted and need a lot of help when dealing with your baby. Be as much supportive as you have been through the last 266 days. Enjoy each day of your baby's life.