Today I am 22 weeks & 2 days

Your Pregnancy: A Week-by-Week Guide

You are now in your 23rd Week of Pregnancy!

WHAT WILL BE HAPPENING WITH YOU THIS WEEK:
What exactly are Braxton Hicks contractions? Your uterus undergoes periods of contraction and relaxation from the moment of conception. Even in the non-pregnant state, the uterine muscle rhythmically contracts and relaxes. These cycles become more noticeable as your pregnancy advances. Commonly known as Braxton Hicks contractions, they may be felt as tightening in your lower abdomen. They are never (very) painful and are erratic in frequency. You might be more likely to experience them after a busy day, following exercise, after making love, or even when you are a bit dehydrated. Drinking fluids may help quiet the uterus. These contractions may last from 15 seconds to one minute. (Be sure to notify your care provider if you experience more than four in a one-hour period, if they change in intensity -- becoming painful -- and/or they are accompanied by vaginal secretions.
The good news? While annoying at times, Braxton Hicks contractions begin the process of ripening your cervix (softening and effacement), which just might mean an easier labor for you!

Haven't felt these Braxton Hicks yet. I do know that when I'm on my feet for too long the muscles in my lower abdomen will start to ache but that's about it. Not really looking forward to when it does start.

WHAT WILL BE HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY THIS WEEK:

Your baby is now about 20 centimeters crown-to-rump and hovering around the one pound (500 grams) mark. Your baby's lungs have begun to develop surfactant, a substance that will help your baby's lungs to expand following birth. And his or her fingernails are now completely formed.

It is very obvious to me that this baby is getting bigger, lol! Sometimes I feel like I'm carrying around a bowling ball inside me! There's definitely a "heavy" feeling happening.

EATING FOR TWO

In the third trimester, your baby begins to collect and store iron. This is one good reason for continuing prenatal vitamins. A supplement with 30 milligrams of iron per day is highly recommended, since women often don't get enough iron through diet alone. Your body also demands iron because of the huge increase in blood volume that occurs during pregnancy. For breakfast, try one cup of Total cereal or Special K Plus or Product 19, which are fortified with iron, or Cream of Wheat, which has 10 milligrams of iron. To boost the absorption, drink a large glass of orange juice or eat another food rich in Vitamin C.

I'm not sure I'll ever be able to keep up with all these vitamins that I need to increase in my diet. I have a hard enough time just finding food that sounds good to me at all! Guess it's a good thing I take my pre-natals religiously.

FACT OF THE WEEK

Considering a homebirth? For women who have uncomplicated pregnancies with excellent prenatal care, a homebirth can be a safe option. Research your options carefully and talk with other parents as well as your care provider.

These conditions may rule out a homebirth:

· Placenta previa
· Preeclampsia or eclampsia
· Certain complications in previous pregnancies
· Hypertension
· Multiple pregnancies
· Premature labor (before 36 weeks)
· Abnormal presentation, such as breech positioning
· Active herpes simplex virus

Any woman that has the courage to have a home birth has all my respect. Lord knows I would NEVER even consider it! I'm all for hospitals and epiderals!!!!!