9 Weeks Pregnant
Here's what's happening during Week 9 of your pregnancy:
Your Growing Baby
Your baby is now about three-quarters of an inch long. As the embryo enters its fiftieth day of existence, it becomes known as a fetus. A membrane lid covers your baby's eyes. Your baby's muscles are beginning to develop, and she can make tiny movements. Your child's limbs are growing, but her arms and hands are forming more quickly than her legs and feet. The hands are actually still known as "hand paddles" and look just like they sound. Ridges have formed on the paddles, which will soon become well-defined fingers. Your baby is developing little dimples where her knees and ankles will go, and her elbows are becoming visible. This week is when sex characteristics begin to assert themselves, and ovaries or testes will soon appear (though an ultrasound won't be able to detect specific sex organs for another two months or so). Your baby's brain waves can now be detected.Your Growing Belly
Your nauseating hCG levels are at their peak this week. The good news is that starting next week, as your hormone levels stabilize, you'll start feeling a lot better. The bad news is that this week is probably going to be rough. If you're throwing up a lot, drink plenty of water to keep yourself from dehydrating. Your uterus has doubled in size and is now about the size of a tennis ball. The area under your navel is definitely firmer than usual. Most women report being uninterested in sex at this stage, though some women also report being more interested than usual. You may begin to notice changes to your hair and skin. Your hair might feel thick and lustrous--or greasy, thin, and limp. Resist the urge to try to dye, perm, or highlight your hair—it may not take to the chemicals evenly. You probably don't feel like exercising much this week, but do try to take walks-- they'll help your food move on down.Tips & To-Do's
10 Great Reasons To ExerciseYeah, yeah, fitness should be its own reward. But on days when that's not enough motivation, remember this: Exercise is as close as you can get to a panacea for common pregnancy complaints. And walking is among the best and easiest ways to get started. Here are 10 reasons why it's so important to keep moving, plus guidelines on starting a walking (and strength-building) program.
Here's how to get started now.
Things to think about this week: Women generally start taking childbirth-prep courses, such as Bradley or Lamaze, during the second trimester, but classes fill up quickly. Research the options in your area (your doctor or midwife and local hospitals probably have lists), and sign up early.
around the web
- Reese Witherspoon: Pretty In Pink
Reese Witherspoon looked lovely as she left Easter Sunday services in Santa Monica.
- Did Alyson Hannigan Reveal Baby's Gender?
Is Alyson Hannigan thinking pink again?
- Jessica Simpson's Best Quotes About Her Pregnancy
Jessica Simpson has been anything but candid about her pregnancy and changing body.
- Hilary Duff Introduces Son Luca Cruz!
New mom Hilary Duff shares the first photo of baby Luca.


