Your baby has started to inhale and exhale small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs.
Moms say don't worry about: switching doctors, being a good mom, every little twinge, every bite of food, and more.
A birth doula is a trained labor coach who provides you with continuous emotional support and guidance about birth options.
You're in your sixth month!
Eavesdropper
Your baby may now be able to hear your voice. He can hear a broader range of sound and can respond with changes in heartbeat, breathing, and movement.
Testicles dropping
If you're having a boy, his testicles have begun to descend into his scrotum – a trip that will take about two to three months.
Lower-back pain
If your lower back seems a little achy lately, you can thank both your growing uterus – which shifts your center of gravity, stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, and may be pressing on a nerve – as well as hormonal changes that loosen your joints and ligaments.
Know the signs of preeclampsia
Preeclampsia – a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure – most often shows up after 37 weeks, but it can happen earlier, so it's important to be aware of the warning signs. Call your healthcare provider if you have swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, more than slight swelling of your hands, excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, or rapid weight gain (more than 4 to 5 pounds in a week).
Don't see your symptom?
Wondering about a symptom you have? Find it on our pregnancy symptoms page.
Plan a babymoon
Now's the perfect time to take one last trip before your baby's born. See what moms wish they'd known about planning the perfect babymoon.
Consider more classes
In addition to a childbirth class, you may want to take classes on baby care, breastfeeding, and infant CPR. Many hospitals offer these, and you can also ask your provider for a recommendation.
