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Pregnancy Week 18
Your baby is developing in many significant ways this week. Learn what is going on with baby as well as how to boost your own energy and travel safely while pregnant.
You might be feeling your baby really kick now! These kicks will be bigger and more defined than the popcorn popping, butterfly feeling of quickening that you've previously felt. Some moms see the first kicks as a confirmation that there really is a baby growing in there.
Do you and your partner talk to your baby? Well, with the bones and nerves in her ears now developed enough to function, she can hear all sorts of sounds -- including blood coursing through the umbilical cord, your growling tummy and your heartbeat. In fact, sudden or loud noises may startle her. Go ahead and sing, tell stories or play music for your baby now.
Unfortunately, hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy. The varicose veins in your rectum can swell up and cause discomfort. If you have them, talk to your doctor about over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams that might bring relief.
Share and celebrate your pregnancy with other moms-to-be.
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- Boosting Your Energy At Work
Try these healthy alternatives to a caffeine pick-me-up when you're feeling sluggish at work.
- Breast Lumps
You may notice more lumps than usual in your breasts while you're pregnant. Check with your doctor to make sure everything is okay.
- Heart Palpitations
Find out why your heart may be pounding a little harder and faster these days.
- Leg Cramps
Follow these tips to help combat those painful lower leg cramps you get at night.
- On-the-Road Rest Stops
Keep these tips in mind if you're going on a road trip during your pregnancy.
- Travel Safety
Follow these guidelines for safe pregnancy travel.
- Your Partner's Reaction to Your Changing Appearance
Help your partner understand that the changes your body is going through are normal -- and that you'd feel much better about it with hi...
- Meal-Replacement Drinks
Don't rely on meal-replacement drinks during pregnancy. You need nutrients from healthy foods for your baby.
- Strength Training
If you were a strength trainer before your pregnancy, talk to an experienced instructor about modifying your current regimen.
- Stretching Abdominal Muscles
Avoid abdominal stretches-they aren't safe for pregnant women.
- Q&A: Kicking Stress at Work
Try these simple relaxation techniques to kick stress at work.
- Q&A: Finding a Pediatrician
Take this list of questions along when you meet potential pediatricians.
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