Welcome to week four of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• I’m pregnant… What next?

• Your baby's development in week 4

• Week 4 checklist 

• Top tips for sore boobs

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

I’m pregnant… What next?

Congratulations!

Your pregnancy test is positive and you've had some time to let things sink in. So what next?

Here are some things you might like to think about this week:

1. Calculate your 'due date'
   Did you know that less than 5% of babies are born on their 'due date'? However it's still a good idea to work out your due date because aside from the obvious reasons, it will also help your medical team to plan your care. If you don't know it already, use the due date calculator here.
   

2. Make contact with your GP or local pregnancy unit
   To avoid any delay in starting your antenatal care, it’s important to register your pregnancy as soon as you have the chance. In some areas you will need to do this via your GP and in other areas you can refer yourself directly to your local maternity unit.
   

3. Take a lifestyle check
   There are a few lifestyle changes to make during pregnancy - here's a summary, but click on the links for full guidelines

   • Smoking: it's recommended you stop smoking in pregnancy.

   • Alcohol: it's not known if there is a safe level, so it's recommended to avoid.

   • Caffeine: the guideline is to limit your intake to 200mg per day.

   • Vitamins: 400 micrograms of folic acid (unless higher dose advised) and 10 micrograms of vitamin D each day. Avoid vitamin A.

   • Regular medications: check with your GP if any should be changed.

   • Pets: if you're a cat parent ask someone else to change the litter tray.

   • Exercise: is so beneficial - these are the guidelines for early pregnancy.
     

4. Keep an eye on what you eat:
   The good news is that most foods and drinks are safe to have during pregnancy. But do check out what you should be careful with or avoid.
   

5. Build a network of support:
   Whether this pregnancy was planned or unexpected do make sure you have all the support you need. Reach out to someone you trust, a partner, relative or friend, your GP, specialist helplines or the Happy Parents Happy Baby team.

Your baby’s development in week four

• Size of a poppy seed

• Around 2mm long

Your baby is what we call an embryo - a bundle of tiny cells.

This week the outer cells will branch out and to form links with your blood supply, but your embryo will continue to be nourished from it's yolk sac for now.

The inner cells will split into three layers: inner layer (will become the breathing and digestive systems), middle layer (heart, blood vessels, muscles and bones) and the outer layer (brain, nerves, skin and nails).

Pretty cool huh?

Week 4 Checklist

You might like to:

• Buy pregnancy vitamins

• Register your pregnancy

• Download the safe food for pregnancy list

Spotlight on: Sore boobs

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

If you’re finding wearing a bra unbearable right now, then you’re probably not alone…

Why? Tender, swollen boobs are often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy due to rising levels of pregnancy hormones oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones, along with a few others, will gear up your boobs to breastfeed, whether or not you eventually decide to.

During the first trimester the ducts and glands expand, so you might notice your boobs getting bigger or changing shape. As this happens, the blood supply also increases, so you may notice your boobs becoming more sensitive and veiny. You might also notice your nipples and areola get larger and darker. It’s said that this is an evolutionary change to help your baby find your nipples easily when feeding because sight is the least developed sense at birth.

Top Tips for sore boobs:

‘I bought some gel pads which I left in the fridge and put in my bra at the end of the day. Absolute heaven.’ – Katie

‘I made it very clear to my partner that my boobs were off-limits until further notice.’ – Jodie

‘I dumped my regular bras in favour of bralettes and sports bras and felt so much comfier.’ – Poppy

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with second-time parents Gemma and Theo from our Leytonstone course who share the positive birth of their baby Cora.

"This was my second pregnancy. My first was pretty ‘textbook’ however, the labour and start to motherhood left me a bit shell shocked and so I wanted to attend an antenatal course that would be both informative and give me a confidence boost! I found HPHB did just that.

"Perhaps it was down to the surge of ‘happy’ oxytocin hormones you get after the birth, or indeed the confidence I’d gained from the HPHB course but I left the hospital a few hours after giving birth feeling like an absolute superhero who could take on the world!"

Treat of the week

This week we are loving these Pregnacare multivitamin Gummies.

They’re a fun way to get your essential vitamins and are ideal if you aren’t a fan of swallowing tablets.

The strawberry and blueberry flavoured chews contain Folic Acid and Vitamin D, plus other essential nutrients.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us - see you next week!

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• To tell or not to tell? - pros and cons of announcing your pregnancy

• Spotlight on: early pregnancy bleeding

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week five of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• To tell or not to tell…

• Baby's development in week 5

• Week 5 checklist

• Early pregnancy bleeding

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

To tell or not to tell…

If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, perhaps you’re wondering when might be the best time to share your news with family and friends?

Traditionally people would wait until the end of the first trimester when statistically the chance of miscarriage drops. But is this an outdated view? Let’s look at some of the benefits of sharing now or waiting until later:

Benefits of sharing now:

• You want to share your excitement: having a baby is BIG news - it’s natural to want to share it with your nearest and dearest.

• Support: the early weeks of pregnancy can be some of the trickiest, with symptoms such as sickness and tiredness difficult to hide. It can make life easier if people around you understand the reason you might call in sick or cancel plans.

• No pretending: social occasions can be a challenge if people are offering food and drinks you’re trying to avoid.

• Work safety: perhaps you work in a job which needs some safety adjustments during your pregnancy and it would be better to do this earlier rather than later.

• Miscarriage: Britney Spears was recently praised for ‘breaking the 12-week stigma’ after announcing she had an early miscarriage. Supporters said many families have historically felt this is something they had to go through alone.

Benefits of sharing later:

• An exciting secret: in a world where we are prone to ‘overshare’, it can be refreshing to keep some things to yourself and enjoy them in private.

• Time to adjust: finding out you are pregnant can take some time to get your head around, especially if unplanned - there’s no need to rush an announcement if you don’t feel ready.

• Older children: nine months can feel a long time to older siblings who are excited to meet the new baby. Telling them later gives them less of a wait.

• Miscarriage: you might feel that should you have a miscarriage you would rather not share this with other people. The chance of a miscarriage after the first trimester is lower.

As you can see, there’s no one fits all approach when it comes to announcing your pregnancy news! It’s an entirely personal choice and it might feel right to tell different people at different times.

Your baby’s development in week five

• Size of a sesame seed

• Around 2mm long

Your baby’s nervous system has started developing and its major organs are beginning to form, including the heart.

Blood has started to circulate through tiny blood vessels and these blood vessels are what forms your baby’s umbilical cord.

Last week we told you that your baby is currently an embryo with three layers of cells. This week the outer layer is starting to form a hollow tube called the neural tube. This will become your baby’s brain and spinal cord.

No wonder you might be feeling tired!

Week 5 Checklist

You might like to:

• Cut down caffeine, cut out alcohol and stop smoking. Seek support if you need helping with this.

• Start a pregnancy diary. It’s a great way to keep track of how you felt and looked during the nine months before your baby arrives. 

• Speak to your employer. You might need to carry out a risk assessment if you’re worried about the impact on your job on your pregnancy.

Spotlight on: Early pregnancy bleeding

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Bleeding during early pregnancy is common but can feel worrying…

Why? Light bleeding or spotting without pain is relatively common before 12 weeks of pregnancy. This usually isn’t serious but you should always speak to your GP, midwife or local early pregnancy unit to be checked just in case.

You may experience some light bleeding or ‘spotting’ and this is called implantation bleeding. This happens when the embryo embeds itself in the wall of your womb. It may happen at the time when your period would have been due. 

Bleeding can also occur due to changes in your cervix caused by pregnancy. You may find that you bleed after sex, for example. 

Vaginal bleeding can also be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. In the first 3 months of pregnancy, 1 in 4 women will have a miscarriage.

Top Tips for early pregnancy bleeding

'If you experience early pregnancy bleeding try to keep calm. Call your GP, midwife or local early pregnancy unit and they will advise you further. If you are bleeding heavily, experiencing pain or feeling unwell, it would be more appropriate to go straight to A&E ‘ HPHB Obstetric Doctor - Dr Will Dooley.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Nick and Lucie who joined our Clapham antenatal course who share the positive birth of their baby Arlo.

“I got admitted to hospital at 41 weeks due to low foetal heart rate, luckily our bags were packed and ready to go, everything ticked off our list from HPHB - all Nick had to do was go home and pick them up. The next day I was given a sweep and a pessary to get things going. I had the pessary put in at 12.45/1pm and after a few laps of the hospital things got going very quickly. After an examination we discovered I was already 4cm and able to move into our room. As we were taught on the HPHB hypnobirthing masterclass, we had packed everything to make the room a peaceful and calm space however I actually needed to push almost as soon as we had settled in!!!

“The first moment I saw Arlo I felt so lucky - when the baby was handed to me, I can’t explain the rush of love I felt. It was literally the most immense, amazing experience of my life. I didn’t have any expectation of how this moment would feel and I was just blown away by it - it was absolutely amazing.

“I feel like HPHB really covers every aspect of pregnancy, childbirth and the 4th trimester. All the experts in each area were super knowledgeable and practicing in that field, which I think really helped.”

What a great birth story - welcome to the world Arlo!

Treat of the week

This week we are loving this Bump to Birthday journal by From You to Me.

With space for photos and scans, as well as prompts for parents to record their experiences, it’s a great way to keep a memento of pregnancy, birth and baby’s first year.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us - see you next week!

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Six weeks : feeling a little peaky?

• Spotlight on: pregnancy discharge

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week six of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Morning sickness

• Baby's development in week 6

• Week 6 checklist

• Increased vaginal discharge

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Feeling a little peaky?

If you find yourself reaching for the sick bowl this week, then you’re probably not alone!

Statistically speaking, week six is the most common time for the onset of ‘morning sickness’ although for some it starts as early as week four. If you’re lucky, you might never experience it at all.

• If it’s called ‘morning’ sickness, why am I feeling sick all the time?

  We’re sorry to break this news, but ‘morning’ sickness is a total misnomer. It’s completely normal to feel sick at any time of the day and that’s why it’s often called pregnancy sickness instead.

• What causes morning sickness?

  Morning sickness is thought to be a reaction to high levels of pregnancy hormones which is why it is usually worst for most people in the first trimester when their body is adjusting to being pregnant.

• How long is morning sickness likely to last?

  For most, morning sickness resolves by 16-20 weeks. But a small proportion of women will experience it throughout their entire pregnancy.

• Is there anything that makes me more likely to suffer from morning sickness?

  You may be more likely to experience morning sickness if you’ve had it in a previous pregnancy, are expecting twins or triplets, are obese or have a history of migraine headaches. Morning sickness will not harm your baby, but if you have severe sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum, it is important to seek medical help.

• How can I cope with morning sickness?

  Unfortunately there’s no cure or treatment for morning sickness but there are some things you can try which might ease it a little. Everyone is different so it’s worth giving everything a try to see what works for you.

1. Eat little and often and avoid greasy or spicy foods

2. Stay hydrated with small sips of water throughout the day

3. Bland, boring and beige food may help keep the nausea at bay

4. Try eating plain toast or a cracker before you get out of bed in the morning. Having an empty stomach can exacerbate the feeling of sickness. 

5. Fresh air can help blow the cobwebs of nausea away. If you can’t face going out, open some windows and doors in your house.

6. Rest - feeling or being sick can really wipe you out so make sure you take time to sit down, read a book or have a nap.

7. There is some evidence that ginger may help with nausea or sickness so try a ginger drink or biscuit.

If your nausea and sickness is quite severe, your GP might be able to prescribe you an anti-sickness medicine called an antiemetic which is safe to take during pregnancy. 

Your baby’s development in week six

• Size of a pomegranate seed

• Around 5mm long

Around week six your baby’s tiny heart will begin to beat and this might be visible on an early ultrasound scan.

Your baby is still known as an embryo and is curved with a tail - resembling a tadpole! There are small swellings where your baby’s arms and legs are developing and small dimples are forming on the side of the head which will eventually be the ears.

Amazing!

Week 6 Checklist

You might like to:

• Check ingredients: including medicines, shampoos and skin productscle/beauty-ingredients-pregnancy-safety-toxic as ingredients such as retinol or parabens are not recommended in pregnancy.

• Make a worry list. Pregnancy can be a rollercoaster of emotions and often writing down your thoughts can help you rationalise them. Do seek help if you need it.

• Know which foods to avoid. You can find a list here.

Spotlight on: Discharge

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

What’s with all the discharge?

Why? You’re probably used to the amount of discharge you produce throughout your monthly cycle and let us reassure you that it’s normal to have it in pregnancy too. However, you may find that you have more discharge than usual right now and this is your body’s way of stopping any infections from travelling up the vagina to the womb. Healthy discharge is usually clear or milky white and doesn’t smell bad.

If you have discharge which feels sore or itchy around your vagina, smells bad, is yellow, green or brown in colour or if you have pain when you pee, this might be a sign that something else is going on. Speak to your midwife or GP who will be able to advise you. Thrush and urine infections are more common during pregnancy.

Top Tips for pregnancy discharge

‘Grab yourself some decent panty liners - otherwise you might find things a little sore down below’ - Lucy

‘All I can say is that Femfresh and I became very good friends during the first trimester! Things did ease off later on in pregnancy.’ - Natasha

‘I’d never had it before but I was quite prone to thrush in both my pregnancies so do call your GP if you’ve got symptoms.’ - Catherine

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Tori and Fraser from our Forest Gate antenatal course, who found out at 6 weeks that they were having twins.

“We found out I was pregnant with twins very early on, at 6 weeks and were very surprised but excited. I was a bit anxious about the pregnancy, but the hypnobirthing techniques and guided meditations I learnt on the Happy Parents Happy Baby course really helped me to chill out and feel excited about the birth."

“The first time I saw my babies I was so thrilled! When Skye was held up over the curtain, it was just joy hearing her cries and was the best sound I've heard. Jamie came out a minute later and again his little cries were the best thing. He was shown to us with his arms stretched wide out, superman style, and he still does this little pose regularly. We really enjoyed the variety of sessions HPHB provided and felt that we were able to be informed in all aspects of the birth.”

We’re doubly overjoyed to share this story of Skye and Jamie’s birth!

Treat of the week

If you’re feeling the pregnancy fatigue, why not try these Spacemasks to help send you off at night?

They are safe to use in pregnancy and contain essence of jasmine to help you relax. 

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us - see you next week!

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• The emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy

• Spotlight on: food aversions and cravings

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week seven of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Pregnancy emotions

• Baby's development in week 7

• Week 7 checklist

• Food cravings

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

The emotional rollercoaster

Pregnancy can bring big changes to your life and whether yours was planned or not, finding out you’re having a baby can be a LOT to get your head around.

There’s no right or wrong way to be feeling, but rest assured that if you feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster, there are lots of reasons why.

• Changing hormone levels: a surge in pregnancy hormones Oestrogen and Progesterone in early pregnancy can lead to mood swings or feeling easily irritated. For most, these symptoms will wear off once your body has adapted to the higher level of hormones, so don’t be hard on yourself if you have a melodramatic moment.

• Sleep deprivation: it’s not unusual to feel exhausted in the first trimester of pregnancy and tiredness is known to have a negative effect on mood. Listen to your body, rest when you can, take naps, accept help and go easy on yourself. Most find a renewed energy when the second trimester arrives.

• Sickness: aside from the physical symptoms, morning sickness can also have major psychological effects. It’s difficult to feel your best when you are worried sickness might strike. We’ve got lots of tips for managing morning sickness here.

• Physical changes: the physical changes that pregnancy brings can be difficult to accept, especially if you have had body image issues before. Many find that their anxieties are worsened by comparing themselves to others on social media and find a digital detox can really help.

• Anxiety and depression: it’s normal to feel worried or vulnerable during pregnancy, even if you can’t wait to meet your baby. But if you feel like these emotions are starting to affect your ability to function, reach out to your midwife or GP who will be able to support you.

• Strained relationships: many people find they argue more with their partner during pregnancy so it is important to try to discuss how you are both feeling. Occasionally this can be a time when domestic violence begins, so if you are concerned reach out to your GP, midwife or someone you trust who can direct you to support.

• Financial worries: if money is a worry, you may be eligible for some extra support during pregnancy. You might also be eligible for a Sure Start Maternity Grant or Healthy Start vouchers for free vitamins, milk and vegetables.

Your baby’s development in week seven

• Size of a blueberry

• 9-10 mm long

Your baby’s brain is rapidly developing now which means the head is growing faster than the rest of their body. Their ears and eyes are also continuing to develop this week.

The limb buds are starting to form cartilage which will turn into the baby’s leg and arms bones.

Incredible stuff!

Week 7 Checklist

You might like to:

• Think of questions for your midwife. Your booking appointment is coming up so why not jot down some questions?

• Consider a non-invasive pre-natal test (NIPT). It is not freely available on the NHS so you will need to pay for it separately. 

• Prepare some healthy snacks. You might be feeling tired and nauseous so spend some time making delicious, healthy snacks which will give you an energy boost while not aggravating your tummy.

Spotlight on: Food cravings

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Help! I only want to eat beige food…

Why? Cravings and aversions are often one of the most talked about symptoms of early pregnancy. It’s totally normal to be turned off food you usually love, while also reaching for other things you wouldn’t normally fancy. 

Cravings happen for different reasons such as a need for nourishment, hormonal shift or desire for comfort foods. Common cravings may include sugary foods if you’re feeling tired, plus salty crisps or carbs. And of course we’ve all heard of the women who’ve wanted to eat things like ice or chalk during their pregnancies too!

It is fine to listen to your body and eat what you like, but it’s all about balance so make sure you’re eating plenty of protein, fruit and vegetables and taking your pregnancy vitamins too. 

Top tips for dealing with food aversions:

Eat cold foods rather than hot ones if the smell of cooking certain dishes makes you feel sick.

Eat plain foods, nothing spicy or greasy, and small frequent meals to avoid feeling nauseous.

Try to make sure you’re still getting enough calories as you will need these to keep your baby growing healthily.

You can read nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed’s tips for healthy eating in pregnancy here

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Charlotte and Mike from our Leigh-on-Sea antenatal course who share the positive birth of their baby Frank.

“I can honestly say everything that pregnancy threw at us, we coped with because of HPHB.  At 37 weeks our baby decided to turn and was then breech. I remember texting the team and asking what our chances were that he would turn back so I wouldn't have to have a C-Section. I will always be thankful for the phone call from them that day - I went from being a nervous wreck to deciding to just go with it. 

“We didn’t have a birth plan and decided we would go with the flow. This was because we actually felt clued up on things and so I never felt out of control and that's all thanks to the gang at HPHB. The first time I saw our baby I felt relieved, emotional, tired, oh and HUNGRY!”

Welcome to the world baby Frank!

Treat of the week

This week we are loving Morning Rescue by HotTea Mama. This tea is designed to support you as you cut back on caffeine, overcome morning sickness and prepare for birth, so it’s easy to see why it’s a firm favourite with our parent community.

The award-winning blend combines whole leaves of lemon verbena, mint and lemongrass with pieces of root ginger resulting in a soothing cuppa, ideal for when you tummy needs settling.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us - see you next week!

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• What to expect from your booking appointment

• Spotlight on: tiredness

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week eight of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Your booking appointment

• Baby's development in week 8

• Week 8 checklist

• Top tips for tiredness

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Your booking appointment

You will be offered your booking appointment when you are 8-10 weeks pregnant and it usually lasts around an hour. Where it takes place will depend on the pregnancy services in your area.

What does it involve?

Your midwife will take all of your details such as medical history/pregnancy history, who you live with and your job, if you have one. They will weigh you, take your blood pressure and if you agree, do a blood test to check for HIV, syphilis or hepatitis B. They will also test your urine to check for signs of pre-eclampsia. You may also be offered a blood test for sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia (blood disorders which can be passed onto the baby) if they think there’s a chance you have either of them.

They will ask you when the first day of your last period was so they can give you a rough calculation of when you might be due. You’ll get a due date at your 12-week scan. You can calculate your approximate due date here but remember, only a small percent (around 4-5%) of babies are born on their due date.

Your booking appointment is also an opportunity for you to talk about any concerns you may have.

What else will I be told?

If you drink alcohol or smoke your midwife will advise you to stop and offer advice on support and services available. Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of stillbirth or your baby developing serious health problems. 

They will also recommend you start taking a vitamin D supplement and folic acid supplement, if you aren’t already.

Other useful information you may be given includes:

• Breastfeeding advice

• Free dental care and free prescriptions

• Exercising when pregnant and pelvic floor exercises

• Options on where to have your baby

• Antenatal classes 

You will be given a set of physical or digital notes to keep throughout the whole of your pregnancy which will outline all of the appointments and scans you will need and at which stages. It will also contain contact numbers for the midwifery team in case you have any problems or questions in between appointments.

Your baby’s development in week eight

• Size of a raspberry

• Around 15-16mm long

Congratulations, your baby has now moved from being an embryo to a foetus! 

Your baby is still inside its amniotic sac and is getting nutrients from the yolk sac.

The placenta is continuing to develop by forming structures to attach it to the lining of your womb.

Adorable!

Week 8 Checklist

You might like to:

• Pelvic floor exercises. It’s never too early to start strengthening these muscles. Strong pelvic floor muscles will make you less likely to leak urine when you sneeze, cough or exercise during your pregnancy. It will also help with labour and your birth recovery. 

• Maternity exemption form. Pregnant women are entitled to free prescriptions during their pregnancy and for 12 months after. Your GP or midwife will be able to give you a form to fill in and send off. You will then receive a card which can be shown in pharmacies. 

Spotlight on: Tiredness

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Help! I’m struggling to stay awake!

Why? If you are finding it difficult to wake up in the mornings or wanting to crawl into bed in the middle of the day, you wouldn't be alone.

​​Tiredness is one of the most common symptoms of the first trimester. As with other symptoms, much of it comes down to hormone changes - specifically rising levels of progesterone.

​​Fatigue commonly starts in the first weeks of pregnancy and eases after your first trimester - before returning again for many in the third trimester.

There are many causes of pregnancy tiredness and most of it comes down to your body working harder than ever to create the perfect environment for your baby to grow.

In the first 12 weeks your body is developing the placenta which will provide your baby with the nutrients and oxygen it needs to thrive. The demands of creating and pumping more blood to your baby can also drain your energy. 

Top tips for dealing with tiredness:

Make time during the day to rest and put your feet up. Try to have a nap if you can. 

Make life easier where you can. Could you look into getting a cleaner or online shopping deliveries?

Accept help if offered by friends and family. This may involve taking your other children for a playdate or some help around the house.

Have a relaxing bath and go to bed a bit earlier. If you’re struggling with pregnancy insomnia you may want to try some sleep or meditation apps to help you relax.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Amie from our Forest Hill course who shares the positive birth of her baby Finn.

“The day that Finn was born, I was booked in to have an induction (which we called his ‘eviction notice’). After being given the pessary and monitored for a short time, we were advised to go for a walk and get some food. My mum, who was looking after my daughter, suggested that we come home for a bit as we live so close to the hospital, but my contractions started and something in me felt that I needed to get back to the ward. In the end, we didn’t even make it to the labour ward as the team were concerned that I may give birth in the lift! Finn was born in one of the bays on the antenatal ward, surrounded by other expectant mums who all said congratulations through the curtains!

“Even though we are second time parents, coming on the Happy Parents. Happy Baby antenatal course really did help us to prepare for Finn’s arrival. There were lots of things that we had forgotten, so it was great to have a refresher, and it helped us to feel more prepared for how different each birth and baby is.”

Welcome little Finn!

Treat of the week

‘Sick of it’?

If you’re struggling with nausea and sickness this package of soothing ginger melts, a spritz and rollerball could become your go-to toolkit to help make you feel better. Developed by midwives and approved by mums these products are all created with the aim of making you feel better and are safe to use in pregnancy.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Self care - why looking after yourself isn’t selfish

• Spotlight on: changes to your skin

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week nine of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Self care

• Baby's development in week 9

• Week 9 checklist

• Skin changes

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Self care isn’t selfish 

In the first trimester it can feel like a lot of the focus is on how to keep your baby healthy but it’s just as important to look after yourself at this time too. Your baby is developing rapidly at this stage and your energy levels will naturally feel depleted. But don’t worry, there’s plenty you can do to make sure you’re looking after yourself physically and mentally at this time.

• Get some rest If you’re feeling exhausted and struggling with sickness or nausea, try to get as much rest as you can. Have a nap during the day if work or other commitments allow. Have a bath and get an early night. 

• Eat well You’ve probably already swotted up on the dos and don’ts of what to eat when you’re pregnant so you know that plenty of fruit, vegetables and protein-rich foods will help keep both you and your baby healthy.

• Stay active Fresh air and moderate exercise will help blow those cobwebs away when you’re feeling drained. A walk with a podcast can be an amazing tonic if you’re feeling overwhelmed or worried. Or you might like to go swimming with a friend or try a new pregnancy yoga or pilates class where you can meet other mums-to-be. 

• Have fun Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have fun. If you’re feeling up to it, why not organise to see friends and do some things that might be a bit more tricky once your baby has arrived? This could be anything from a weekend away, to going out for dinner or to the cinema or theatre. 

• Ask for help If everything does feel a little overwhelming right now and you’re struggling with fatigue or sickness you might decide to share your pregnancy news with selected people who can help make things easier for you at work or at home. You won’t be feeling like this forever so now is the time to do whatever needs to be done to look after yourself and your baby. 

Your baby’s development in week nine

• Size of a grape

• Around 22mm long

This week your baby’s face is starting to form. Their eyes are bigger and their mouth has formed and even has a tiny tongue with tiny taste buds inside.

The foetus’s internal organs such as their heart, lungs and brain are all continuing to develop. Their hands and feet are also forming but the fingers and toes haven’t separated out yet.

Wow!

Week 9 Checklist

You might like to:

• Use an SPF. Your skin can be more sensitive during pregnancy so it’s important make sure you’re protecting it with a suncream which has an SPF of 30 or higher.

• Stretch mark oil. Your bump might not be noticeable yet but you might like to start using a pregnancy oil on your tummy.

• Book a spa – check safety. You deserve a pamper so why not book a spa day or spa weekend with your partner or friends. You won’t be able to use a sauna or hot tub but you can have a pregnancy massage (after the 1st trimester), pedicure or facial and unwind.

Spotlight on: Skin changes

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

My skin has started to look darker…

Why? Parts of your body appearing darker than usual can be one of the earliest signs you are pregnant. You might notice that your nipples and areolas have changed colour and moles and freckles may have darkened too. 

Many women also experience melasma, or ‘mask of pregnancy’, which is when darker patches of pigmentation appear on your forehead, cheeks and neck. This is caused by your body creating more melanin, the tanning pigment, to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) light. Again this is caused by a hormonal change in your body. 

Other skin changes you may notice in your first trimester include spots and eczema but, if you’re lucky you might experience the ‘pregnancy glow’ where your skin looks plump and smooth.

Top tips for dealing with skin tone changes:

Being in the sun could make your patches even darker so try to stay out of direct sunlight, use a high SPF and wear a sunhat. 

Your patches are likely to disappear in the months after your baby is born but it is natural to feel self-conscious about them. Use tinted moisturiser, foundation or concealer to even out your skin tone if you need to. 

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Thea and Andy from our Clapham course who share the positive birth of their baby Arthur.

“I had been experiencing mild contractions for the final three weeks of my pregnancy and throughout this time I was feeling really positive about labour. During the day on Sunday we had a lovely long walk and that evening, as I went to bed, I noticed that my contractions were starting to increase in both intensity and frequency. Then at 3.30am I felt my waters break! I felt so excited that labour was starting.

“Whilst I was at the pushing stage and struggling a bit to keep going, Andy suggested I feel Arthur’s head, which was an incredible feeling and really gave me a boost.

“Andy actually filmed Arthur’s birth and having that footage has been completely amazing – being able to look back on the experience and know that it really happened and that I really did it is the most magical thing and an incredible memory to have.

“Going on the Happy Parents. Happy Baby. course definitely prepared Andy and I for labour and parenting in so many ways and it made such a difference to our experience. In terms of post-pregnancy the breastfeeding workshop helped me understand what a good latch would look like and this made the start of my breastfeeding journey much easier. The session with the paediatrician also alleviated a lot of our anxieties about taking Arthur home. We also appreciated a first aid course being included as these are invaluable things to know.”

What a wonderful birth story! 

Treat of the week

This week’s treat is Bio-Oil. It is safe to use in pregnancy and specifically designed to help improve the appearance of stretch marks and uneven skin tone. The formulation is a combination of plant extracts and vitamins suspended in an oil base meaning it’s gentle enough for your growing skin.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Double figures! You’re 10 weeks pregnant this week!

• Spotlight on: Pooing - why is it so painful since I got pregnant?

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 10 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Exercise during pregnancy

• Baby's development in week 10

• Week 10 checklist

• Top tips for constipation

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Exercise during pregnancy

What you need to know about exercise during your pregnancy 

The last few weeks may have been a struggle if you’ve been experiencing morning sickness or exhaustion. If so, exercise may not have been top of your priority list and that is completely fine!

But staying active during your pregnancy will have benefits now and when you are recovering from the birth. Obviously, this is not the time to take up a sport that you’ve never tried before. But if you already run, cycle or swim a few times a week then keeping up with that regime will be great for you and your baby, as long as your midwife or doctor have not advised you otherwise.

What are the benefits of exercise during pregnancy?

• Helps manage your pregnancy weight gain

• Keeps up fitness levels, or improves them

• Cuts the risk of high blood pressure

• Can reduce the chance of developing gestational diabetes

• Helps with sleep 

• Improves your mood

• It’s fun!

What types of exercise are good to do?

The Active Pregnancy Foundation recommends 150 minutes of moderate physical activity spread over each week. This activity can be anything that increases your heart rate and makes you breathe faster while still being able to hold a conversation.

Ideas include walking, swimming, cycling, gardening, taking the stairs, yoga/pilates, muscle strengthening exercises eg. squats or light weights and even housework counts!

Once you pass the 12-week mark it is recommended that you switch to a pregnancy-specific yoga or pilates class. With all activities, remember to listen to your body and adapt your exercise as your body changes.

During pregnancy your body releases a hormone called relaxin which can make your joints more elastic. You may have noticed that your body feels more flexible when stretching. Relaxin can lead to some instability when exercising so try using a balance aid such as a wall or chair if you need to. It can also increase the risk of injury so try not to over-extend your joints or push your body beyond its limits.

:: This Mum Moves is an initiative developed by ukactive in collaboration with expert partners passionate about empowering pregnant and postnatal women to lead healthy and active lives. Read more here

Your baby’s development in week 10

• Size of a prune

• Around 30mm long

This week marks the time when your baby’s heart is fully formed and it’s beating 180 times a minute - that’s 2 to 3 times faster than yours!

Another amazing fact this week is that your baby’s jawbone has been created which already contains its future milk teeth!

If you have an early scan this week you will be able to see your baby making small jerky movements.

Amazing!

Week 10 Checklist

You might like to:

• Research an antenatal class. Classes can get booked up very quickly so it’s best to look at the available classes in your area. You can find out about Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes here

• Go to the dentist. You’re entitled to free dental care during your pregnancy and for the 12 months after so why not book a check up now?

Spotlight on: Pooing

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Pooing is so painful since I got pregnant..

Why? Hormonal changes in your body mean some women can start to experience constipation from quite early on in their pregnancy. A diet low in fibre, lack of exercise or dehydration can also contribute.

One of the common consequences of constipation in pregnancy is piles, or haemorrhoids. These are nothing to be embarrassed about and are once again due to the effect of pregnancy hormones on the veins as well as pressure that your growing baby puts on the back passage. Piles can lead to itching, aching, bleeding and general discomfort when pooing. Your pharmacist or GP can help you if you are struggling with your symptoms. These tend to resolve after your baby is born.

Top tips for dealing with constipation: 

The best way to avoid both constipation and piles is to try to keep your stools soft by eating plenty of fibre - found in wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables. 

Keeping well hydrated will also help.

Speak to your pharmacist or GP if your symptoms don’t improve - they will be able to advise on medications that can improve symptoms and that are also safe to use in pregnancy.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Sonja and David from our Forest Hill course who share the positive birth of their baby Emilia.

“My birth was amazing, and I will always look back with fond memories!!! I realised during the HPHB classes that I had panicked and lost control during my first labour and I knew this time I wanted labour to be different - I wanted to be upright, active and I really wanted a water birth.

“HPHB helped me create a birthing plan that considered everything in chunks of time, while planning for changing scenarios. Most importantly, David learnt how he could support me through the process and the importance of keeping calm.

“I felt in control, so stayed at home until I could feel pressure in my bum, but the surges were still only 4 mins apart. Knowing the signs, I called the midwife and we went to the hospital. David remained very calm and kept telling me where we were on the journey. Realising the urgency when we arrived, I told David to dump the car at the entrance and to leave the bags. He ran me in a wheelchair to the birthing suite.

“Fortunately, the midwifes had the pool ready for me. I was quickly examined before I was allowed to get in. Immediately I needed to push and Emilia arrived within 10 mins! We had been at the hospital 20 mins in total!”

What a magical water birth story!

Treat of the week

Pregnancy Swimwear

We love this stylish and comfortable pregnancy swimsuit.

Swimming has so many benefits during pregnancy and this swimsuit is both practical and pretty.

The adjustable ties at the back will accommodate your growing bump, meaning it will last throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Understanding the 12-week scan

• Spotlight on: dizziness and fainting

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 11 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Preparing for your dating scan

• Baby's development in week 11

• Week 11 checklist

• Top tips for dizziness

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Preparing for your dating scan

The dating scan is the first routine scan of pregnancy and will perhaps be the first time you have seen your baby, unless you’ve had an earlier scan for any reason.

It is normally offered between 10-14 weeks of pregnancy and is most commonly done during the 12th week. It’s referred to as the dating scan as this is when the sonographer will see how far along your pregnancy is and they will also do a detailed check of your baby’s development. It is often carried out alongside a blood test and together these tests form part of the screening programme for conditions such as Down’s syndrome.

What are they checking for?

• How many weeks pregnant you are and to calculate your due date.

• How many babies you’re pregnant with.

• Whether your baby is developing as expected.

• Where your placenta is located and how it is functioning.

How will it be done?

A sonographer will put some gel on your tummy and use an ultrasound probe to get 2D images of your baby on their screen. You may see them taking lots of measurements and notes but please don’t worry, this is normal. They will explain their findings and also give you photos to take home with you.

What is the screening test?

The screening test for Down’s, Edward’s and Patau’s syndromes is offered at this time in combination with the 12-week scan. If you agree to have the testing then during the scan they will measure the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck (called the nuchal translucency) and you will also have a blood test taken after the scan. This is called combined screening, it must be done before 14 weeks of pregnancy and the results are sent to you as a risk ratio.

If you’re having your scan after week 14 then you’ll be offered a slightly different test to screen for these syndromes.

Your baby’s development in week 11

• Size of a plum

• Around 41mm long

Your baby’s head now makes up about one third of the length of their body, which is also starting to straighten out.

The bones of their face are also now fully formed and they have tiny eyes and eyelids, but they won’t open their eyes for a few more months. The fingers and toes are now starting to separate and even have tiny nails on them!

Week 11 Checklist

You might like to:

• Consider a baby moon.  You don’t need us to tell you that life as you know it is going to change somewhat in the coming months! Most people find that the second trimester is the part of pregnancy where they have the most energy and as you are almost there, why not make the most of it and plan a trip?

• Keep your skin moisturised. Your skin is probably feeling a bit drier and more sensitive than usual. You might have noticed pigment changes too. Slather on a pregnancy safe moisturiser to keep your skin soft.

• Cut yourself some slack. The first trimester can be exhausting, so don’t feel bad if you need to delay other plans and rest instead, most people find their energy returns in the second trimester.

Spotlight on: Dizziness

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

I keep getting lightheaded…

Why? It’s the hormones, of course! As soon as you get pregnant your body has a lot more work to do. It is pumping more blood around and before long, carrying a bit more weight too. Fainting happens when not enough blood, and subsequently oxygen, is going to your brain. 

You might feel faint or dizzy if you stand up too quickly or if you get out of a hot bath. You may also feel faint if you have low blood pressure or if you’re suffering with morning sickness.

It can also happen if you’re too hot or dehydrated.

Top tips for coping with dizziness: 

• Keep your blood sugar levels stable by eating regular meals and healthy snacks in between. Also drink plenty of water.

• Try to get up more slowly and sit or lie down on your side when you are feeling dizzy and wait for it to pass.

• Speak to your GP or midwife if symptoms persist.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Ashley from our Stratford course who shares the positive birth of her baby Elara.

“I had a really lovely home birth. I was in labour for 12 hours with my mum, my husband and two midwives. We tried to birth in the birthing pool but it slowed down the progress so I birthed right outside of it in our living room.

“The first moment that I saw my baby I was in love! She was such a squishy little thing and I was in awe to meet her.

“I would definitely recommend the Happy Parents Happy Baby course. It's really informative and helpful to have real people standing in front of you to ask questions and give guidance. Real faces are always more assuring than googling things. I also really love the friends we have made from the course. We still meet up and chat with them!”

Welcome to the world Elara!

Treat of the week

This Chillys water bottle is the perfect daily companion to keep you cool and hydrated. Its stainless steel design can keep your drink cooler for longer, leaving you feeling more refreshed each time you use it.

Great for when you’re feeling those warm pregnancy hormones!

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Everything you need to know about antenatal classes

• Spotlight on: frequent urination

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 12 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Antenatal classes

• Baby's development in week 12

• Week 12 checklist

• Top tips for frequent urination

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Why book antenatal classes?

The end of the first trimester is an ideal time to start looking into antenatal classes.

They’re a great way to help you gain knowledge and practical skills to prepare for the arrival of your baby. They can also help you meet friends who are having babies at a similar time to you. These friends are likely to be a great support during the 3am feeds and for many years after that as your children reach important milestones growing up together.

This week Happy Parents Happy Baby founders Will and Fran explain why they started Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes… and why they would love you to join them:

“We started this journey back in 2017, after the birth of our first daughter, when we discovered there was quite a large gap between the theory and reality of having a baby.

We wanted to be prepared, but there were so many books and courses available we didn’t know where to start. We ended up taking traditional antenatal classes, a hypnobirthing course, a hospital antenatal course and a separate first aid course. Then, when things got tricky, we needed private breastfeeding support at home too.

The whole process was expensive, there was lots of conflicting advice and nothing really prepared us for when things might deviate from ‘normal.’ We realised there must be a better way of doing things.

So, with our collective experiences, Will as an Obstetric Doctor, working in maternity units and Francesca as a former Sky News journalist turned medical doctor, we set about creating Happy Parents Happy Baby.

Our goal was simple. To give parents access to clear and unbiased information that they could trust. We knew that the only way to achieve this, was to bring together a whole team of specialists, that could work together to give the best possible level of support for each stage of pregnancy, birth and parenting.

Not only would this give parents-to-be the most realistic and joined up preparation for birth, but also save time, money and confusion.

Our team of specialists includes midwives, hypnobirthing teachers, obstetric doctors, women’s health physiotherapists, paediatric (baby) doctors, feeding specialists and baby first aid instructors.

Together we combine years of professional experience with the all-important reality of being parents ourselves. We are dedicated to bridging the gap between theory and reality.

We’re also passionate about helping you make lifelong friendships with other parents-to-be. We know how important that support can be.

So if you’re looking for an antenatal course and have any questions do reach out - we would love to hear from you!”

Your baby’s development in week 12

• Size of a lime

• Weighs around 18g

• Around 5.4cm long

This is a big week for you and your baby. The foetus is now fully formed!

Your baby’s organs, bones and muscles are all formed and their sex organs are developing too. Will they be a boy or a girl??

From now on your baby needs to do a lot of growing and your bump may start to show in the coming weeks too but it’s a bit too early to start feeling any movements yet.

Week 12 Checklist

You might like to:

• Announce your news if this feels like the right time. Many people choose to share their news after their 12-week scan, if they haven’t already. This is a personal decision, so you may prefer to wait.

• Wash your hands. The pandemic has taught us the importance of hand hygiene and this is also important when you’re pregnant. You don’t want to pick up any sickness bugs or other illnesses while you’re pregnant.

• Flu and Covid jabs. Pregnant women are advised to have the flu jab to protect them and their baby from severe illness. The Covid jab is also on offer to pregnant women if they haven’t had it before. Speak to your GP or midwife if you have any questions about these vaccines.

Spotlight on: Peeing more

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Spending more time in the toilet is not something I expected in the first trimester!

Why? You can blame frequent trips for a pee on the hormone hCG which increases the blood flow to your pelvic area. Your body releases this hormone at the very beginning of your pregnancy and it is hCG which gives you the positive result on a pregnancy test. It also increases the blood flow to your kidneys which become more efficient during pregnancy. Another factor causing your need to pee is that as your uterus grows it puts pressure on your bladder which then has less room to store urine. This can mean that many women spend a large proportion of their pregnancy dashing to the toilet. 

Top tips for dealing with frequent toilet trips:

• Try to make sure you are emptying your bladder fully each time by leaning forward as you urinate. 

• Cutting down on diuretics such as coffee could help but it is important to still remain well hydrated.

• See your GP if you have any pain when you pee. Urinary tract infections are common in pregnancy, and it's important to treat them quickly to reduce the risk of kidney infection.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Katherine and Ross from our live online course who share the positive birth of their baby Kaila.​​

“During my third trimester my husband and I listened to the Happy Parents Happy Baby relaxations and practised their breathing techniques every night. I knew I wanted to feel calm and in control during the birth and hypnobirthing seemed the perfect way to do this.

“I had Braxton Hicks on the Friday night and things started to happen around 3pm on Saturday. I had a bath and used my breathing until around 5pm and then got out and started using the TENS machine while I watched my favourite films. We went into hospital at 10pm and I was 2cm. We went home and I kept listening to my favourite HPHB relaxations! We returned to hospital at 1am and I was 4cm! I took a paracetamol and Codeine and I was in a birthing pool for about 2 hours while my husband massaged my back – he kept reminding me of the breathing exercises. I got out the bath to be monitored and the actual pushing lasted an hour…Kaila was born at 5:47am on the Sunday morning!

“I would definitely recommend Happy Parents. Happy Baby - they are all so kind, relatable and knowledgeable.”

We’re grateful to Katherine and Ross for sharing their story.

Treat of the week

Happy Baby on board badge

A baby on board badge is a great way to let other people know that you are pregnant, which is especially useful in early pregnancy when you are out and about and it’s not always obvious you are expecting.

By wearing a ‘Baby on Board Badge’ other passengers on public transport are more likely to offer you their seat if you need it or give you some extra space in crowded places.

The Happy Baby on board badge offers a fun and modern alternative to traditional designs.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Sleep - how to do it safely and get more of it.

• Spotlight on: bleeding gums

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 13 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Top tips for better sleep

• Baby's development in week 13

• Week 13 checklist

• Top tips for bleeding gums

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Top tips for better sleep

Sleep can become something of an obsession when you’re pregnant - and for a long time after! How much or little you’re getting and why it can be so difficult to drift off.

As your pregnancy progresses, you may find you are having more trouble sleeping because:

• Your growing bump makes it difficult to get comfortable

• You need to go to the toilet more often as there is increased pressure on your bladder

• Your mind is over active with thoughts about the birth or baby

• You feel too hot due to hormonal changes and an increase in blood supply

It won’t harm you or your baby, but functioning on less sleep, can make day-to-day life more difficult. So here are some tips for better sleep during pregnancy:

• Practice good sleep hygiene

  Set aside half an hour each evening for winding down, dim the lights to help the body produce melatonin, which helps you get to sleep. Take a bath or listen to relaxing music and switch off your electronic devices.

• Relaxation exercises

  Practice breathing techniques and relaxations before bed to help you relax and unwind.

• Use a pillow to support your bump

  You can find an exclusive discount to our favourite pregnancy pillow at the end of this page.

• Try to stay active

  Try to keep active in the day even when you feel tired. Yoga, swimming and walking are all good exercises for later pregnancy. Try to avoid sleeping too much during the day as it can affect night time sleep. Websites such as the Active Pregnancy Foundation have lots of useful tips.

• Minimise caffeine intake

  Keep your caffeine intake below 200mg per day and try to avoid it altogether in the lead up to bedtime. Consider reducing your fluid intake in the evening if you are waking regularly for the loo.

• Rearrange your day

  If you aren’t managing to sleep until late, try to rearrange your commitments so you don’t need to get up so early. If you have other children, now is the time to ask for help if you need it.

• Keep a pen and paper next to your bed

  Write down any thoughts that might be keeping you awake at night so you can clear your mind and focus on sleep.

Your baby’s development in week 13

• Size of a lemon

• Weighs around 25g

• Around 7.4cm long

This week, your baby’s genitals will be starting to form outside their body - their ovaries or testes are already fully developed.

Your baby will also be making some jerky movements and over time these will become more deliberate. You are unlikely to feel these movements for a few more weeks.

Some babies may also start to suck their thumb - practising the movements they’ll use when feeding.

Week 13 Checklist

You might like to:

• Buy a maternity bra. It’s recommended that you get your first maternity bra when you are three or four months pregnant. You can read more about buying a maternity bra here.

• Eat iron rich foods. Many women become iron deficient and develop anaemia in pregnancy, so try to get a good intake of iron in your diet. Iron-rich foods include red meat, pulses, dark leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. 

• Check if you’re entitled to food vouchers through the Healthy Start programme. Check your eligibility here.

Spotlight on: Bleeding gums

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

There’s blood when I brush my teeth…

If you’ve noticed blood in the sink when you’re brushing your teeth it means you’re experiencing another very common pregnancy symptom.

Why?

Your hormones can cause plaque to build up on your teeth and gums which can cause them to become swollen and bleed. This is called pregnancy gingivitis or gum disease so to avoid it it’s worth taking a bit of extra care over your teeth brushing and general oral hygiene.

• Top tips:

• Make sure you’re brushing your teeth thoroughly twice a day and try to floss once a day to remove any build up of food which could cause plaque. 

• Avoid drinking sugary drinks and eating sugary or acidic foods too often. We know it’s easier said than done when you’re experiencing cravings and feeling tired!

• A great perk of being pregnant is that you are entitled to free NHS dental care during the pregnancy and for 12 months after. Make the most of this by booking a dentist appointment for a check up and book yourself in for a clean with a hygienist too if you think you need it.

• If you’re suffering from morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water each time you are sick. This will stop the acid from your stomach from damaging your teeth. Try to wait an hour or so before brushing your teeth because they will have been softened by the acid. 

  :: To get free dental care and free prescriptions when you’re pregnant you need to apply for a Maternity Exemption certificate. Your GP surgery will be able to give you a FW8 form to complete.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Anastasiia who took our live-online course and shares the positive birth of her baby Sophia.

“I didn't have any fixed idea about how I wanted my birth to be, I just wanted to have all the information about the options. My husband and I moved to the UK only two years ago and we don't know anyone who has given birth here, so we had no idea of what to expect in British hospitals. We wanted to learn about birth options, pain relief and everything else.

“My partner was amazing, supporting and encouraging me all the way. I'm sure I wouldn't have been able to do it without him as I felt soooo tired by the pushing stage. Thanks to the HPHB course I knew what to expect at each stage of labour and that really helped me remain calm and in control. It's my first baby and everyone was surprised how quick the labour was. After only 30 minutes of pushing, our beautiful daughter arrived at 2pm.

“We were left with her for the golden hour and I was elated, extremely exhausted but ultimately happy! We took advice from the course to do skin to skin with both myself and my husband.

“The main takeaway for me from our birth story is that the partner's support plays an enormous role in the process! He or she can lift your spirits even if you feel like you can't do it any longer. I think I wasn't very responsive when I was at the last stage of labour, I could hardly speak! But my partner never stopped encouraging me, which gave me so much confidence. That's what made our birth story positive.”

What a beautiful story!

Treat of the week

BB Hugme Pillow

If you’re struggling to find a comfy sleeping position we may just have the solution! 

The BBHugme pregnancy pillow makes the perfect bedtime companion and was voted the best pregnancy pillow by HPHB graduates.

Use code HPHB10 for a 10% discount.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• The importance of your pelvic floor

• Spotlight on: pelvic pain

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 14 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Your pelvic floor

• Baby's development in week 14

• Week 14 checklist

• Top tips for pelvic pain

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Adore your pelvic floor

 What is the pelvic floor? 

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles in your pelvis. They stretch like a hammock from your pubic bone at the front to your tail bone at the back.

Why is it important? 

The muscles of the pelvic floor support your bladder, bowel and uterus. These muscles may be weakened by pregnancy, which can lead to:

• Prolapse - often felt as heaviness or bulging in the vagina

• Incontinence of urine, faeces and wind

• Reduced vaginal sensation, affecting enjoyment during sex.

How can I strengthen my pelvic floor muscles? 

Like all muscles, the pelvic floor needs to be trained to stay strong and flexible, so pelvic floor exercises during and after pregnancy are really beneficial. 

How often should I do the exercises? 

Every little helps. It is recommended to exercise the muscles 3-5 times a day. This may feel a lot to most busy people so try to exercise as often as you can. It can be easier to remember to do the exercises if you make them part of your daily routine. For instance, some people like to do them at each meal to help them remember. 

 What is the technique? 

• Start by taking a few deep breaths in and out

• Now, locate your pelvic floor muscles - imagine the muscles you would use if you were trying to stop yourself passing wind.

• Now squeeze these muscles and zip forward like you are trying to hold urine.

• Hold

• Release

• Keep breathing normally throughout

There are two types of exercise:

 Fast contractions 

• These exercise the fast twitch muscle fibres

• Tighten the muscles (like holding wind) quickly and fully, then release.

• Repeat ten times at the speed of one per second.

 Slow contractions 

• These exercise the slow twitch muscle fibres

• This time squeeze the same muscles slowly and hold for ten seconds. Then release for ten seconds. Rest for four seconds, then repeat. Do a total of ten repetitions.

Your baby’s development in week 14

• Size of an orange

• Around 8.5cm from head to bottom

It is around this week that your baby will start sprouting hair on their head and body.

They will also be swallowing amniotic fluid and as their kidneys begin to work they will start to wee back into the amniotic fluid!

And yes - they will drink it again. But as unappetising as it sounds this is a really important cycle to prepare the structures of your baby’s body for life in the outside world.

Week 14 Checklist

You might like to:

• Book pregnancy yoga or pilates classes. Now that you’re in your second trimester you might be feeling a bit more energetic. Why not check out a local pregnancy pilates or yoga class? It can be a great way of staying fit and healthy and meeting other mums-to-be. Just make sure the teacher is qualified to teach pregnant women.

• Do pelvic floor exercises. We know we’ve mentioned these before - but here’s a friendly reminder. If you’re struggling to remember to do them why not check out the Squeezy app which will help you make them part of your daily routine.

• Keep taking vitamins. Whilst folic acid is most important whilst trying to conceive and in the first trimester, it’s still beneficial to take other pregnancy vitamins to make sure your body is getting enough of what it needs. It’s also recommended that you take 10mcg of vitamin D daily.

Spotlight on: Pelvic pain

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Pelvic pain

It’s estimated that one in five women experience some kind of pelvic pain during their pregnancy. The severity can range from mild twinges to struggling to walk, go up stairs, sleep or even work. For some women it may just be a mild ache but in the most severe cases a woman may need pain relief and to use crutches to walk.

You’re more likely to experience pelvic pain if you already have lower back or pelvic girdle pain or have injured the area previously. It’s also more common in women who have a physically demanding job, are overweight or are expecting twins or triplets. 

Why?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is this symptom’s official name and it happens when your pelvis becomes stiff or less stable. You might experience pain over your pubic bone at the front or across one or both sides of your back. It can also be painful around your perineum, the area between your vagina and anus, and sometimes spreads to the thighs. In some cases a woman may feel or hear a clicking or grinding sound in the pelvic area.

Things that might aggravate PGP include rolling over in bed, climbing or going down stairs, getting out of the car and standing on one leg. PGP can start any time in your pregnancy but it’s more common later as your bump becomes bigger and heavier. Some women experience it towards the end when their baby’s head moves down to the pelvis or becomes engaged.

Top tips:

PGP can be quite upsetting and debilitating for some women so it is important to try to get it diagnosed as early as possible. Your GP may be able to refer to a physiotherapist who can recommend some exercises you can do to relieve the pain and strengthen your back and hip muscles, core and pelvic floor.

The physio may also be able to move your joints to make sure they are not restricted. 

There is also plenty you can do yourself to avoid making the pain worse. Try to stay active but only within your pain limits - exercising in water can help with the pain. Rest as much as you can and ask for help with older children or other activities. 

Avoid wearing high heeled shoes, sit down to get dressed and try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned. 

The good news with PGP is that it should ease once you have had your baby and should not affect your ability to have a vaginal birth, if that’s part of your birth plan.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Becky and Luke from our Clapham antenatal course and they share the positive birth story of baby Dali.

"Because of what we had learnt on the HPHB course we knew that we had some time to think about the decision regarding the induction; it really had been very low down on our birth preferences. The doctor was supportive of this and agreed that we had 3 hours before an induction would be necessary.

"Contractions were continuing to increase and after another examination I was amazingly now 8cm! Half an hour before the induction deadline. An hour or so later I started felt the urge to push and after 15 minutes Dali was born!!!”

Welcome to the world Dali.

Treat of the week

This week’s treat will help to remind you and guide you through those very important pelvic floor exercises. The Elvie pelvic floor trainer and app guides you through 5-minute exercises that give your pelvic floor a full workout. It also allows you to track your progress over time, all in one place. As you squeeze your pelvic floor muscles, the device provides feedback to the app about the strength of the contraction.

*Check with your midwife if this is safe for you to use in your pregnancy​.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Everything you need to know about hypnobirthing

• Spotlight on: anaemia and how to spot the signs

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 15 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• What is hypnobirthing and why do I need it?

• Baby's development in week 15

• Week 15 checklist

• Top tips for tiredness

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

What is hypnobirthing and why do I need it?

You may have heard of hypnobirthing and perhaps you are wondering what it is or how it could be helpful to you.

Well, put simply, hypnobirthing gives you tools to have a positive birth experience, however you choose to give birth.

That's why we weave hypnobirthing throughout all Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal courses.

Here are some important things to know:

• Hypnobirthing is a practical and evidence-based preparation for birth, that will help you feel confident and excited about bringing your baby into the world.

• Despite the name, there is nothing 'hippy' about hypnobirthing. You won't be hypnotised either.

• What you will gain, is a better understanding about your body and all your birthing options, plus the knowledge, support and practical tools to have a positive experience, whatever type of birth you have.

• Hypnobirthing works. That's why it's now practised widely in homes, hospitals and birth centres across the country. It's something your birthing team can support you with too.

Hypnobirthing is a preparation process - think of an athlete preparing for a race.

• Not only will they prepare physically, but they will also have mental strategies, because they know if their mind isn't in the right place, they won't have the best experience on the day.

• Our courses will give you mental and physical strategies for birth, helping your mind and body work together to make your experience as calm, comfortable and efficient as possible.

• We'll help you gain a greater understanding of the physiology of birth and the opportunity to address any anxieties you may be having.

• We'll also teach you a whole host of practical tools including breathing techniques, relaxations, birth positions and more.

Your baby’s development in week 15

• Size of a pear

• Weighs around 70g

• Around 10.1cm long

Now is the time to start talking to your baby because from this week your baby can hear muted sounds from the outside world and inside your body, such as the gurgling from your digestive system. 

Your baby’s eyes are also becoming sensitive to light and may be able to register changes in light outside your tummy.

Cool, huh?

Week 15 Checklist

You might like to:

• Useful shopping list - you can download our shopping list for baby here.

• HPHB Amazon store - You can find our Amazon store of recommended items here.

• Sustainable choices: don’t feel pressure to buy everything new - ask friends if they have things you can borrow and remember to check out pre-loved selling groups too.

Spotlight on: Tiredness

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of early pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

The first trimester is behind me so why do I still feel so tired?

F​​or most, the second trimester brings a new lease of energy. But if you are still struggling with tiredness, you're not alone.

Here are our tips to cope with second trimester fatigue:

Make sure you’re getting enough rest: Many find that as their energy increases in the second trimester they start to do more and resting is no longer a priority. Don’t feel the pressure to pack in too many activities right now if you don’t have to. If you find you are struggling to sleep well you can read our top tips for better sleep here.

Check you are getting enough nourishment: Keeping well hydrated and eating regularly will help to optimise your energy levels. Try to avoid too much caffeine and sugar. They may give you a temporary boost but your energy levels will usually crash soon after.

Move more: this might sound counter-intuitive but if you have been avoiding exercise because you’re too tired, you could be missing out on its energising benefits. You can find tips on keeping active in pregnancy here.

Get a medical check: sometimes there is a medical reason for feeling tired in pregnancy, so do consult your midwife or GP if you are struggling. Iron-deficiency anaemia is common in pregnancy so do get checked out if you are concerned.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Kate from our Forest Hill antenatal course who tells us all about baby Cora’s water birth.

“I cannot recommend hypnobirthing enough, it's not as hippy trippy as it sounds. The HPHB Hypnobirthing Masterclass was the perfect prep for our birth experience.

“My waters went at 4:30am. I got up for a wee and it was like someone tipped a pint out of me. I was so surprised I burst out laughing... I tried to go back to sleep but water kept coming, so I crept down stairs for breakfast knowing I probably wouldn't want to eat when the surges kicked in. I called my midwife, let her know my waters had gone and sat eating breakfast watching Netflix until 7:30am when my fiancé woke up. Surges were regular but very mild. We were so excited that baby was coming! At 8:30 we went for a walk. Very slowly and stopping when I needed to breathe through the next wave.

“I had a natural birth with just a bit of gas and air as the head was coming out. It was an intense experience but not painful like if you cut yourself or get injured. For me it felt like a huge build up of pressure. My partner was amazing and I clung to him throughout…”

Treat of the week

This week we are thinking about relaxation. This NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini releases essential oils into the air at the touch of a button. It can be used with any NEOM Essential Oil blend to meet your wellbeing need, whether that be Better Sleep, Less Stress, Mood Boost or More Energy.

Sit back, relax and enjoy.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Feeling your baby move

• Spotlight on: round ligament pain

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 16 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Feeling your baby move

• Baby's development in week 16

• Week 16 checklist

• Top tips for round ligament pain

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Feeling your baby move

You will usually start to feel your baby move between 16-24 weeks of pregnancy. The movements will often start off as small flutters and gradually increase to bigger and stronger kicks and rolls. 

Regular movement is a great sign that your baby is doing well and will increase until around 32 weeks of pregnancy and then the frequency and pattern will remain roughly the same until you give birth. 

Some people may tell you that movements reduce as the baby gets bigger- this is not true! 

You should be able to feel your baby moving regularly until you give birth. 

If you are concerned that your baby is moving less or their pattern has changed then call the midwifery unit that same day. Don’t worry about disturbing anyone - the midwives will be ready to answer your call 24/7 and will be happy to speak to you and invite you in to check you and your baby. Even if it’s 2am – please call them that same night and do not wait until the morning. 

If movements reduce again after being checked then make sure you phone again – the midwives are happy to see you as many times as needed. 

Please do not use home dopplers, monitors or apps to monitor your baby’s heartbeat. If you’re worried, always ask your midwife to check for you as they’re trained to listen to lots of different things and the presence of a heartbeat is only one of the things they’re listening for. 

Your baby’s development in week 16

• Size of an avocado

• Weighs around 90-110g

• Around 11.6cm long

This week the muscles in your baby’s face are starting to move and while they can’t control them yet, expressions will be starting to form. 

The muscles in your baby’s limbs are also continuing to form and they may now be able to put their hands together and form fists.

Week 16 Checklist

You might like to:

• Consider cotton underwear. During pregnancy you can be more prone to developing vaginal thrush, especially if you have gestational diabetes. Cotton underwear is more breathable and absorbent so will reduce the chance of yeast growing.

• Use a humidifier for a blocked nose. If you’re experiencing nose congestion or nosebleeds, you might want to see if a humidifier will help. They put moisture in the air which can help ease congestion.

Spotlight on: Round ligament pain

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Round ligament pain

Round ligament pain is a very common symptom in the second trimester. It’s a growing pain, which makes sense because this is when your baby goes through some impressive growth spurts.

Why?

This type of pain happens when the pelvic ligaments that support your uterus stretch and soften as your baby and tummy grow. The pain is typically felt in the lower part of your belly and your groin area. The pain will feel different for everyone but it could be anything from an ache or cramp, to a stabbing pain. It can occur on only one side of your body or both. The pain could be triggered by something like moving quickly, sneezing or coughing and usually only last a few seconds.

It can feel worse if you’re moving around a lot and women carrying multiples may experience it more. 

Round ligament does not harm your baby and it should disappear once you’ve given birth and your uterus starts to go back to its normal size again.

Top tips:

Luckily for most the ache doesn’t last long and you’ll probably start to become accustomed to what activities cause it to happen. Avoid sudden movements and try to get up and sit down slowly. Rest as much as you can, your body is going through a lot of changes. 

Some find a belly band or belt can help relieve some of the aches and pains caused by the weight of your bump and give you extra support.

Stretching and exercising can also help relieve discomfort.

If symptoms persist ask your midwife or GP to refer you for physiotherapy. You may also opt to find a physiotherapist privately - but always check they are qualified to support people during pregnancy.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Jade and David from our live-online course and they share the birth story of their baby Evelyn.

“My pregnancy overall was fairly easy. I had quite a lot of scans in the beginning due to concerns about my cervical size as I had previous Lletz procedures - however, I was discharged at 24 weeks. We also experienced reduced movements throughout my pregnancy, which were explored with a CTG and apart from that, it was all fine. I used the HPHB Instagram throughout my whole pregnancy taking part in pregnancy yoga and lots of the live discussions such as sleep advice, maternity leave advice etc. I also did some of the hypnobirthing sessions before bed, which were great.

“In terms of the birth, considering it was my first baby, it all went so quickly. I had tummy cramps all day and night the day before but nothing unbearable. Then the next morning they were still there and I started having some slight tightenings. I went into the DAU to be checked over because of constant pains and they confirmed I was 2cm dilated, which I couldn't believe. When I got home my waters broke immediately and my contractions were then every minute and a half. I called the labour line and went straight back to hospital -  I was now 4cm.

“Then suddenly it was pushing time and she came 3 hours later. Due to how quick it was I only had time to have gas and air and diamorphine. Even though the birth was a whirlwind I felt completely prepared due to the HPHB course.”

What a lovely birth story!

Treat of the week

As your bump grows there may be days when it feels uncomfortable carrying the extra weight around.

This BBHugme maternity support belt can help make life a bit more comfortable by supporting your pelvis, back and belly.

Use code HPHB10 for a discount

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Vaccines in pregnancy

• Spotlight on: greasy/spotty skin

Check out our instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 17 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Vaccines in pregnancy

• Baby's development in week 17

• Week 17 checklist

• Top tips for greasy/spotty skin

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Vaccines in pregnancy

You will be offered a number of vaccines during pregnancy including flu, whooping cough (pertussis) and the Covid vaccines.

Flu

This vaccination is recommended as during pregnancy you can be more susceptible to complications if you catch the flu. 

It’s offered during the winter months and is safe to have at any stage of pregnancy. 

You can read more about it here.

Whooping cough (Pertussis)

Whooping cough is an illness which can be serious in young babies. Being vaccinated in pregnancy reduces your baby’s risk of being seriously unwell if they were to catch whooping cough as a newborn. 

When given in pregnancy the vaccine allows your body to produce antibodies which are then passed onto the baby via the placenta to protect them until they have their own routine vaccination at 8 weeks old. 

It is recommended that you have this between 16-32 weeks for maximum protection. 

You can read more about it here.

Coronavirus/Covid-19

COVID vaccination in pregnancy is recommended by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of Midwives. 

Pregnant women have been found to be at higher risk of complications and hospitalisation from Covid-19, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.

The vaccine is considered to be safe and effective at any stage of pregnancy.

To help you make a decision about having the vaccine during pregnancy you can check out these resources from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Your baby’s development in week 17

• Size of a large onion

• Weighs around 150g

• Around 12cm in length

Your baby’s eyelids are still closed but their eyes can move around and their eyebrows and eyelashes are beginning to grow.

Your baby’s individual fingerprints have now formed and their fingernails and toenails are also growing.

Amazing stuff!

Week 17 Checklist

You might like to:

• Research buggies. Have you had a look at buggies yet? Now might be the time to start doing some research and thinking about your preferences. You might want to buy one second hand or go and try some out in the shops. Either way, it’s best to push a few so you get an idea of their weight, size and manoeuvrability. Also, there can be long lead times on popular items so it’s worth ordering the one you want sooner rather than later so it has arrived in time for the birth.

Spotlight on: Greasy/spotty skin

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Greasy/spotty skin

For some women pregnancy can bring glossy hair and glowing skin but of course, as with everything, this is not the case for everyone.

For some, androgens and progesterone can stimulate your glands to create more oil on the surface of the skin. This may mean that your skin is more greasy and spotty than usual.

Why?

The increase in oil on your skin can cause your pores to become blocked which can lead to more spots, and in some cases pregnancy acne. Fortunately, like most of the symptoms we have outlined so far, the greasiness and spots should clear up once your baby has arrived. 

Top tips:

There’s plenty you can do to help minimise the oil and spots. Take a look at the skincare products you’re using and swap to less oily ones if you’re getting spots. Wash your face twice a day with a soap-free, gel-based cleanser and moisturise with an oil-free cream after. Blotting paper or sheets can be useful for removing some of the oil if you’re suffering with a shiny forehead or nose. 

Avoid using any acne treatments or retinoids or retinols as they’re not thought to be safe during pregnancy. This is also the case if you’re breastfeeding too. Choose water-based make up as this will help keep your skin moisturised without being more greasy. Regularly washing your hair, towels and bedding will also help reduce oiliness.

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Hannah and Steve from our live online course and they share the birth story of baby Nathan James

“Just after 1am my waters broke while I bounced on my ball, using gas and air. I got on the bed to be examined and told the midwife I was feeling the need to push but didn't want to tear. She reminded me my body was designed for this and I should listen to it. My hubby set up my music and held a fan on me. My midwife coached me brilliantly & hubby helped with breathing. 5-6 big pushes later and he was here at 2.31am.

We would definitely recommend the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal course - mainly due to the excellent descriptions of birth & all the possible interventions/pain relief options."​

Welcome to the world Nathan James!

Treat of the week

The Body Shop Peppermint Intensive Cooling Foot Rescue is perfect for tired, hot or swollen feet.

Massage the cooling peppermint foot cream onto hard skin and heels at night to soothe and refresh your feet. It is Infused with English peppermint essential oil, meaning it smells as fresh as your feet will feel after using it.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts. Learn about our team here.

Coming up
next week

• Looking after your teeth in pregnancy

• Spotlight on: feeling hot

Join our free pregnancy relaxation sessions every Sunday at 8:30pm on our Instagram Live

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 18 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Dental hygiene

• Baby's development in week 18

• Week 18 checklist

• Top tips for feeling hot

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

What pregnancy means for your teeth

When you become pregnant it’s unlikely one of your first thoughts will be “what is going to happen to my teeth?” However, for some women hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a number of dental issues. 

There’s an increased risk of gum disease and decay during this time so it is even more important than usual that you maintain a good cleaning regime. You may find that your gums are swollen and bleed when you brush your teeth. This is called pregnancy gingivitis which is caused by a build up of plaque. 

There are plenty of things you can do to keep your mouth as healthy as possible:

Oral hygiene

Make sure you brush your teeth for a full two minutes twice a day, using a toothpaste which contains fluoride which kills bacteria. 

Floss your teeth once a day to remove small bits of food which can cause plaque to build up.

Use a small-headed toothbrush with soft filaments.

Avoid using mouthwash which contains alcohol.

Smoking during pregnancy is not recommended but it can also make gum disease worse.

Diet

Try to avoid eating too many foods which contain acid and sugar as this can cause decay. Replace sugary snacks with vegetables, fresh fruit or plain yoghurt. Sugary drinks should also be kept to a minimum. 

If you have morning sickness and are vomiting regularly then it is recommended that you rinse your mouth with water afterwards. This will stop the acid from your stomach from damaging your teeth. Wait an hour or so before brushing your teeth as they will have been softened by the acid.

Dental care

Women are entitled to free NHS dental care throughout their pregnancy and for the full year after their due date. You need to fill in a maternity exemption form which you can get from your doctor, nurse or midwife. 

Make sure you tell your dentist that you are pregnant. X-rays and some other treatments such as fillings will not be carried out while you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you have any problems during your pregnancy contact your regular dentist or call 111 if it is an emergency.

Your baby’s development in week 18

• Size of a pepper

• Weighs around 180g

• Around 14cm long

You might not be feeling your baby move yet and that is nothing to worry about at this stage. But if you do, it might feel like a fluttering or gentle rolling sensation.

As well as moving more, your baby's senses are developing this week, notably touch and their ability to hear. Their swallowing and sucking reflexes are also developing this week.

Week 18 Checklist

You might like to:

• Decide if you want to know the sex of baby. Your next scan will be coming up in a week or so and you will be given the option of finding out the sex of your child if you don’t know already.

• Look at maternity clothes. If your current clothes are feeling a little snug, you might like to start thinking about updating your wardrobe.

Spotlight on: Feeling hot

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Someone bring me a fan!

Arriving everywhere looking like a bit of a sweaty mess? Don’t worry, again this is a totally normal symptom of pregnancy and let us tell you why…

Why?

There are two reasons why you’re feeling hotter than normal - hormones and your body pumping a greater volume of blood than usual.

Top tips:

Wear layers so if you find yourself getting too hot you can take some items off.

Choose loose, breathable fabrics which will make you sweat less than synthetic fabrics.

Keep your house cool and use fans to circulate the air if you need to.

Stay hydrated and make sure you carry water with you when you’re out. 

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Caroline and Vince from our Clapham course and hear about their positive birth experience with baby Emma

"I had a hard time in the first trimester of my pregnancy - I was exhausted all the time and constantly nauseous. I couldn’t stand the sight or smell of anything except butter and toast! Things eventually eased up around week 15 although I found myself feeling quite anxious. Happy Parents Happy Baby really helped to calm me down and ease my anxieties - especially the hypnobirthing relaxations that I listened to at the end of each day.

At 39 weeks I woke up in the middle of the night with cramps. Using the knowledge from the course I was able to deduce that this was probably the start of early labour... I knew I had a long road ahead and understood the pattern I was to look for before heading to the hospital. Although I wasn’t experiencing much pain or discomfort at first, I began to apply the breathing and hypnobirthing techniques I was taught by Hannah during our HPHB course right away! I ran a bath and had my partner read the HPHB relaxation scripts. Together we breathed through each contraction which we’re coming quicker at this point…

Treat of the week

We’ve highlighted the importance of keeping your mouth healthy so why not treat yourself to a new toothbrush?

The Oral-B Pro 3 toothbrush can help to keep your teeth cleaner and gums healthier. Just what you need to keep your whole mouth fresher and to help you keep any dental problems in pregnancy at bay.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Everything you need to know about the 20-week scan

• Spotlight on: pregnancy headaches

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 19 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Preparing for the 20-week scan

• Baby's development in week 19

• Week 19 checklist

• Top tips for headaches

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Preparing for the 20 week scan

You’ve almost reached the halfway mark and in the next week or so you’re going to have the opportunity to see your baby again!

The 20-week scan is a detailed scan of your baby’s physical development - it looks at your baby's bones, heart, brain, spinal cord, face, kidneys and abdomen. It also looks at the placenta, blood flow and fluid surrounding your baby.

The person performing the scan will also check your baby’s genitals so this is the chance to find out the sex of you baby if you haven’t already and would like to.

The length of your baby as well as their head and tummy circumference will also be plotted on a graph to monitor how they are growing.

The 20-week scan screens for a number of rare conditions and that is why it is also known as the anatomy or anomaly scan. You will be told at the end of the scan if any further follow up is recommended.

You’ll be given more photos of your baby and you can then compare them to the 12-week ones and see how much they’ve changed and grown!

Your baby’s development in week 19

• Size of a mango

• Around 15cm long

• Around 240g in weight

Your baby is putting on weight at a rapid rate but if you saw them now, their skin would still look a bit wrinkled. It’s not until the final weeks that your baby will ‘fill out’ with a bit of fat. 

Your baby’s skin is also now covered in a substance called vernix which protects it from the amniotic fluid. You’ll have probably seen photos of newborns looking white and greasy in the first minutes and hours - this is totally normal.

Week 19 Checklist

You might like to:

• Celebrate your news with family and friends if this is something that feels right for you 

• Buy a pregnancy pillow if you are uncomfortable in bed - you can get a 10% discount on the bbhugme pillow using the code HPHB10

Spotlight on: Headaches

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Head pounding? Let’s look at why.

Headaches are common in early pregnancy and usually improve as your pregnancy goes on, however if you are concerned at any point it’s always best to seek help from your medical team.

There are a number of reasons you might experience headaches, which include hormonal changes, withdrawal from caffeine, dehydration, tiredness and stress.

Is there anything that will help?

Simple lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of fluids, getting enough sleep and taking steps to rest and relax can help. Check with your midwife if it is safe for you to take paracetamol if needed.

There are times when a headache in pregnancy can be more of a concern..

A headache can sometimes be a symptom of pre-eclampsia. This usually starts after 20 weeks of pregnancy but can have serious complications for you and your baby if left untreated.

Call your maternity unit urgently if you have:

• a severe headache

• problems with vision, such as blurring or seeing flashing lights

• pain just below your ribs

• vomiting

• a sudden increase in swelling of your face, hands, feet or ankles

• weakness in your limbs

• facial drooping

Birth story of the week

This week we catch up with Aurelie from our Clapham antenatal course. She initially wanted an elective Caesarean birth but ended up giving birth to Ayaan with just gas and air

“I wanted a C-section until the beginning of my third trimester when I changed my mind - don't ask me why! It just happened and I decided to go with a vaginal birth. I was keen to have an epidural. After 2 days of contractions, I made my way to hospital to be told that I was 3cm dilated and so couldn’t be admitted. I decided to head back home to relax. When my contractions were every 2 minutes I returned to hospital and the midwife told me that I was now 7cm dilated! She put in the call for my epidural to be done ASAP, however unfortunately/fortunately (I can't really confirm what it would have been) the doctor was with another patient. 

“As a result, 30 minutes later I was then fully dilated and the epidural had not been done. My contractions were coming so regularly that there is no way I would have been able to sit down still long enough for it to be administered! My midwife gave me the confidence to go ahead without it. As it turned out, my baby would have been born before the epidural would have worked anyway! I got on my knees, as for me it's all about gravity and I started to push with just gas and air! Despite being my first baby, things happened much quicker than I had imagined. 

“I think keeping active until the end and believing in myself really helped! Happy Parents. Happy Baby. taught me everything that could happen in labour, the pain relief and so many other things! This meant I knew what to expect, what I wanted and what I didn't! I also knew what questions to ask my team.”

We’re so grateful to Aurelie for sharing her lovely birth story with us.

Treat of the week

Music can be so powerful during pregnancy and birth so this week’s treat is wireless earphones.

These are great for listening to your pregnancy relaxations and positive affirmations.

They’re also ideal for playing music when out and about or for shutting out other sounds, so you are calm and relaxed during your baby’s birth.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Stretch marks

• Spotlight on: indigestion and heartburn

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 20 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Stretch marks

• Baby's development in week 20

• Week 20 checklist

• Top tips for indigestion

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Stretch marks 

You’re halfway through your pregnancy now and your baby is going to go through some big growth spurts in the coming months. You’re probably finding that you look less like you’ve had a big meal and more like a pregnant person now!

We’re sure you don’t need us to tell you what stretch marks are as they are very common in men and women. They’re caused by your skin stretching as you grow or gain weight. The hormonal changes your body goes through during pregnancy make you more susceptible to getting stretch marks. But it won’t affect everyone and will depend on how elastic your skin is. 

Depending on your skin colour they can be pink, red, purple or brown and the NHS says they can affect 8 in 10 pregnant women. You might have noticed them appear on your bump, breasts and upper thighs. When they start to appear will vary from person to person.

The average woman will gain around 10-12kg (22-28lb) during their pregnancy but this will vary. If you gain more weight then you will increase your likelihood of getting stretch marks. If you are expecting multiples you can expect to put on a bit more weight than if you were only having one baby so may be more likely to get stretch marks. 

While you might feel self-conscious about them, stretch marks are not harmful and will fade over time. They will probably not disappear completely. You have probably seen creams which claim to help eliminate stretch marks. However, there’s not a lot of evidence that they work or that preventative creams or oils work either. 

Speak to your GP or midwife if you’re worried about your weight gain.

Linea nigra 

Another change to your skin you may have noticed as your bump has grown is a dark line running down your stomach. This is called the linea nigra and is normal skin pigmentation. Not every woman will get one of these pregnancy lines but if you do, it will usually disappear a few months after your baby is born.

Your baby’s development in week 20

• Size of a sweet potato

• Weighs around 280g and 16.5cm long

As we outlined last week in Will’s 20 week scan section, your baby’s major organs are now all fully formed and you may or may not now know your baby’s gender.

If you’re having a girl her uterus is now formed and is starting to fill with millions of eggs. If your baby is a boy then their testicles will still be in their abdomen but will descend once the scrotum is fully formed. 

Week 20 Checklist

You might like to:

• Get your whooping cough jab. You can protect your baby from birth by having the whooping cough jab when you’re pregnant. The best time to have it is between weeks 16 and 32 of your pregnancy but most people are offered it after their 20 week scan.

• Book a haircut. You might have noticed your hair looking more luscious than usual. Keep it looking healthy by treating yourself to a haircut. 

• Stretch. You’ve got a lot going on in your life. You’re growing a baby and probably still working or looking after other children. Take time out each day if you can to have a good stretch. It will help with any aches or pains and also help you relax and unwind.

Spotlight on: Indigestion

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Why am I reaching for the Gaviscon?

Indigestion, which is also called heartburn or acid reflux, is a common pregnancy symptom. It’s caused by hormones and, as your pregnancy progresses, your uterus pressing on your stomach. 

Why?

You can experience these symptoms at any time in your pregnancy but it’s most common towards the end of your second trimester. 

Indigestion may start soon after you have had something to eat or drink, but sometimes there can be a bit of a delay.

Top tips:

Don’t worry, there are lots of things you can do to try to alleviate the discomfort caused by heartburn. 

Try to eat small meals more frequently and don’t eat too close to bedtime. A glass of milk can help so maybe keep a glass next to your bed to sip during the night. Keep an eye on whether there is a pattern to what’s making you feel ill. Spicy foods, chocolate or fruit juice can all be culprits. 

Speak to your midwife or GP about whether there are any antacids you can take. These are medicines which neutralise the acid in your stomach. If these don’t seem to be doing the trick then speak to them again to see if there’s another option.

Birth story of the week

Katherine and Ross had a very positive vaginal birth with their daughter Kaila

“I had Braxton Hicks on the Friday night and things started to happen around 3pm on Saturday. I had a bath and used my breathing until around 5pm and then got out and started using the TENS machine while I watched my favourite films. We went into hospital at 10pm and I was 2cm. We went home and I kept listening to my favourite HPHB relaxations, I loved Chloe's muscle relaxer!! We returned to hospital at 1am and I was 4cm! I took a paracetamol and Codeine and I was in a birthing pool for about 2 hours while my husband massaged my back – he kept reminding me of the breathing exercises. I got out the bath to be monitored and the actual pushing lasted an hour…Kaila was born at 5:47am on the Sunday morning!

Welcome to the world little Kaila!

Treat of the week

The world of car seats can be confusing. You may have already started looking and been overwhelmed by options. The Joie i-spin 360 i-size grows with your baby and is suitable from birth to four years old. The one-hand, 360° seat rotation makes for an easy in, easy out motion saving your back from straining as your baby grows.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Deciding where to give birth

• Spotlight on: thicker and shinier hair

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 21 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Choosing where to give birth

• Baby's development in week 21

• Week 21 checklist

• Top tips for changes to your hair

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Choosing where to give birth 

You may have been asked early on in your pregnancy where you would like to give birth and this can feel overwhelming to start with. You don’t have to decide straight away and you can change your mind at any time. Discuss and consider the options available with your birth partner and choose the place which feels right for you. 

Home 

Some women choose to give birth at home. Being in your own environment, in familiar surroundings, can feel comforting and relaxing - helping your birth hormones to be released. You will have two midwives with you for the birth. They may even be part of the team who saw you for your antenatal appointments depending on where you live. 

Birth centre

This is a midwife led unit- sometimes in a hospital and sometimes a stand alone unit (check and see what your local one is like). They’re usually set up as ‘home from home’ environments designed to relax you and to make you as comfortable as possible. They often have birthing pools in the rooms as well as equipment like birthing balls, stools, beanbags etc. The birth centre is normally recommended for women with no complications in their pregnancy. 

Labour ward/delivery suite

Usually located in the maternity unit of a hospital. You will be looked after by midwives as with a home or birth centre birth but doctors will be available if you need their help. 

Some women choose to give birth on a labour ward/delivery suite for further reassurance/support or it may be recommended by the team providing your care if there are complications in your pregnancy and you require additional support or monitoring during birth. 

The rooms can be made into relaxing environments and you will be encouraged to be mobile and upright as you would be at home or in the birth centre. Some rooms will have birthing pools in them if you wish to use one. 

:: You can read more about choices around where to give birth here

Your baby’s development in week 21

• Size of a banana

• Weighs around 350g

From week 21 the way we measure a foetus changes from head to bottom to head to heel instead. It is also from this stage that your baby will weigh more than the placenta for the first time. While the placenta does keep growing throughout your pregnancy, it won’t catch up with your baby.

It is also from five months that your baby becomes covered in very fine hair called lanugo. It’s not known why but some experts think it’s to keep them at the right temperature. The hair has usually gone before the birth.

Week 21 Checklist

You might like to:

• Eat nuts. Nuts are a great source of protein, fibre, healthy fat and minerals and are also very filling. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids which will help with your baby’s brain development and can be a good option if you’re a vegetarian and don’t eat oily fish. There is no need to avoid eating peanuts while you’re pregnant unless you’ve been advised to by your doctor.

• Talk to friends about any anxiety. Pregnancy can be an anxious time and even though you’re over halfway there now, you might still be feeling trepidation about labour or becoming a parent. Talk to your friends and family about how you’re feeling. 

• Elevate your feet to avoid swelling. If you spend a lot of time on your feet at work or doing other activities you might have started to notice your ankles or feet swelling. Take the weight off and make sure you spend 20 minutes or so, a few times a day with your feet elevated to help reduce this swelling.

Spotlight on: Hair changes

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

How’s your hair looking?

In week 17 we discussed the skin changes you may have noticed since you got pregnant but what about your hair? Does it feel thicker and more glossy? Or perhaps it’s thinner and oilier…

Why?

The reason your hair might be feeling thicker is down to the hormone oestrogen. As your body produces more of it, it changes the cycle of your hair growth. This means your hair stays longer in its growth stage and takes longer to fall out so you have more hairs on your head at one time, compared to when you’re not pregnant. 

Some women may experience their hair falling out during pregnancy and this is due to a drop in oestrogen levels. This might occur if you’ve had a stillbirth or miscarriage or if you have a hormone imbalance.

Hair loss after pregnancy is very common because this is when your oestrogen levels return to normal. Your hair should have returned to normal by the time your baby is a year old but speak to your doctor if it hasn’t. 

Finding hair on other parts of your body is also a common symptom of pregnancy. This could be your upper lip, nipples or cheeks. There’s no reason why this hair can’t be removed in the same way you would have before you were pregnant. However, laser removal or electrolysis are not recommended as not enough research has been done into how safe they are when pregnant.

Top tips:

It’s safe to dye your hair during pregnancy although some women choose to wait until after their 12-week scan because there isn’t a lot of research into the risks. If you’re dyeing it yourself always make sure you don’t leave the dye on for too long and do an allergy (patch) test before you use a product. If you’re not sure about a hair treatment, speak to your GP or midwife. 

Tweezing, threading and waxing are all fine to do during pregnancy, as long as you’re not finding your skin sensitivity has increased too much. Ouch!

If your hair is more oily than usual try not to wash it too much and skip products which contain silicon, oils or lanolin. If your hair is more dry and brittle than usual then try to wash and condition it more gently and avoid using a hairdryer if you can. 

You might also notice that your nails have changed since you became pregnant. They might be growing faster and feeling stronger or in some cases they might feel more brittle and weak. If this is the case, it could be an indication that you don’t have enough biotin in your diet. Try eating more nuts, eggs, oats, spinach, broccoli, bananas and whole grains as this will improve your nail strength and keep your hair and skin looking healthy.

Birth story of the week

Joanna and her partner Miles share the birth of their son Xander

“As soon as I found out I was pregnant I decided that I really didn’t want an epidural, an episiotomy or assisted birth. Will explained all the birthing options and scenarios so well during the sessions that I was no longer afraid of these options as I now knew the reasons that they were used. My contractions started 4 hours after I finished my last day at work at 1 am (8 days before my due date) so I had no rest and no sleep! Miles had downloaded a contraction timer app that he had been told about during the sessions and used that to time my contractions. He was amazing and I felt that the birth partner session during the course really helped him to know how to handle the situation. My contractions came on really strong and really close together from the start and within a few hours we were in hospital at the birthing centre. After a long labour I ended up asking for an epidural so was transferred to a delivery suite. 22.5hours later our baby boy was born with the help of an episiotomy and a ventouse. We were both calm throughout and I felt that the sessions with HPHB really contributed to this!”

We’re so pleased we could be part of Xander’s birth story!

Treat of the week

Have you started looking at sleep options for your baby already? This week’s treat is the SnuzPod⁴ Bedside Crib.

It’s perfect for keeping your baby nearby, for a safe bonding experience. The SnuzPod attaches to the side of your bed and has an easy zip down wall making access to them for night feeds and cuddles even easier.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• What to look for in maternity clothes

• Spotlight on: thrush

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 22 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Maternity clothes

• Baby's development in week 22

• Week 22 checklist

• Top tips for thrush

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Maternity clothes 

You’re probably finding it hard to squeeze into some of the clothes you wore before you were pregnant and obviously this is only going to become more of an issue as your pregnancy progresses. There’s no point in being uncomfortable and in some cases what you wear, such as tight shoes, tight socks and high heels could even cause more aches and pains. 

Before you start splashing the cash, have a good look in your wardrobe at what you already own. You might be surprised to see that you have plenty of clothes which can be worn or adapted to fit your bump. You’ve probably already had to buy a few new bras if your boobs have grown or become tender in the last few months. Maternity bras have a number of features which differ from a traditional bra. They will either be non-wire or have what is called ‘flexi-wire’ which flexes with your body as your diaphragm expands in the latter stages of pregnancy. The bras will all have six hook and eyes, rather than the usual three. This allows you to loosen the band as your ribcage expands.

If you do need some new items you can be reassured that there’s now a huge range of maternity clothes on the market which suit all budgets and tastes. You don’t need to spend a lot of money or buy vast amounts of clothes but you’ll want to feel comfortable and confident. One key thing is to not buy your whole maternity wardrobe in one go. Your body will change every month so don’t waste money on lots of items you’ll only wear for a few weeks. 

Summer or winter wardrobe?

Obviously the time of year you are pregnant will affect what you wear. If the second half of your pregnancy falls during spring and summer then you might want to buy some stretchy maxi-dresses, elasticated cotton trousers and stretchy skirts. This can be worn as your bump grows and will keep you cool as the temperature rises. 

If it’s autumn/winter you will want to buy a few pairs of maternity jeans and leggings you can pair with shirts, jumpers and long cardigans. Dungarees and stretchy woollen dresses can also work really nicely. You may also need a maternity coat if none of your current ones will accommodate your bump. 

New workout wear and a swimsuit might also be on the list if you’re enjoying exercise while you’re pregnant. 

Clothes you can wear after the birth

Another consideration is buying clothes you’ll be able to wear after birth too. Examples include button-down shirts which are handy for breastfeeding. Some maternity brands offer nursing T-shirts and dresses with extra material you can lift when feeding. Many women find that maternity leggings and jeans are so comfortable that they continue to wear them long after their baby has been born. They can also be great if you’ve had a c section and need loose clothing. 

Brands we love

We know everyone has different taste but some great maternity brands include Latched for workout wear, Isabella Oliver, Seraphine, H&M, Gap, Bump & Milk, CARI and Jojo Maman Bebe.

Your baby’s development in week 22

• Size of a papaya

• Around 28cm long and weighing 450g

If you’ve started to feel your baby move you might have been able to notice a pattern of when it seems most active. This is because they are beginning to form a sleep and waking routine - but it probably won’t be the same as yours! In fact, it’s very common for your baby to be wide awake and active just as you’re getting into bed and trying to sleep.

Week 22 Checklist

You might like to:

• Tell work and think about parental leave. Now that you’ve had your 20-week scan you may feel ready to tell work about your pregnancy, if you haven’t already. You are legally obligated to tell your employer at least 15 weeks before the beginning of the week your baby is due. This is also a good time to start discussing with work and your partner your maternity leave plans and researching what maternity pay you’re entitled to.

• Go for a swim. Swimming is a great form of exercise when you’re pregnant and you’ll feel the benefit in your whole body and mind. As your bump grows the feeling of weightlessness in the water will be really lovely and will help ease any pains you’re experiencing. It might also help with your energy levels and improve your sleep.

• Start to prepare the nursery. Have you thought about where your baby is going to sleep? Will they have their own room or will they share with you? Start to think about how the space will look and what you need for it. Will you need a changing table, chest of drawers etc?

Spotlight on: Thrush

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Thrush 

Thrush is another annoying symptom pregnant women can be susceptible to but it is easy to treat and is totally harmless to you and your baby..

If you’ve not had thrush before, let us tell you a bit about it. It’s a yeast infection caused by the candida species of fungus. This fungus is always present in your vagina and doesn’t usually cause any issues. However, if the balance of bacteria changes such as during pregnancy or if you’re stressed or taking antibiotics it can grow and cause irritation. 

Symptoms:

• White discharge which is often compared to cottage cheese

• Itching and irritation around the vagina and vulva

• Pain when you pee or have sex

• Redness 

Usually you can buy pills, pessaries and creams for thrush over the counter but if you get it when you’re pregnant, you need to see your GP or midwife first. This is because the pill is not safe to take during pregnancy so they’ll make sure you get a free (whoop!) prescription for the right treatment. The cream and pessary (a tablet inserted into the vagina) contain the antifungal drug clotrimazole which is safe to use in pregnancy. 

If you have thrush when you give birth, there is a chance your baby should catch it too but don’t worry, this can easily be treated.

Birth story of the week

Alice and Dan’s pregnancy was a surprise and Phoebe’s birth was a really positive experience for them

“My birth was also quite easy (as easy as childbirth can be!! Of course, it hurt a lot!!) I had no pain relief other than gas and air. I went into the situation well prepared and my mind was set on the end goal. In the class we had explored not really having any set plan and my plan was ‘no plan’. When my waters broke we were rushed over to the high risk side but I still felt very calm and although in pain, all these situations had been explained to me so I wasn’t surprised! Pushing out a baby though...nothing can prepare you for that pain!

“To be honest, I don’t remember how I felt the first moment I saw Phoebe - I felt like she wasn’t real? It’s a lot to take in during that short moment. I don’t think women or men should be prepped for an overwhelming love moment, because sometimes it happens slower. I had a new baby and the instant, unconditional, maternal feeling but the feeling of deep, intense love came later!”

Happy parents indeed - just what we like to see!

Treat of the week

The Shnuggle Squishy baby changing mat is a luxury mat for nappy changes, massage and tummy time. It’s really easy to wipe clean and has raised edges to contain even the wriggliest of babies.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Is it time to tell your employer, if you haven’t already?

• Spotlight on: leg cramps

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby

Welcome to week 23 of the Happy Parents Happy Baby guide to pregnancy, birth and beyond.

This week we'll be covering:

• Pregnancy and work

• Baby's development in week 23

• Week 23 checklist

• Top tips for leg cramps

• Birth story of the week

• Treat of the week

We hope you enjoy it!

Pregnancy and work

Your growing bump may have become a bit of a giveaway at work so if you haven’t told your boss and colleagues yet, now might be the right time. This is not just so they can make sure you are safe in the workplace and not doing anything which could harm you or your baby. It’s also because you will need to make sure you are eligible to claim for maternity pay and other benefits. 

The MATB1 is a form you need to complete at least 15 weeks before your due date. You can get the form from your doctor and midwife and it’s needed by your employer as proof of your pregnancy. Once your boss has seen it they will be able to confirm how much maternity pay you’ll get and when it will start and stop. You will also be able to discuss when your maternity leave will start. 

If your company has its own maternity pay scheme you may be eligible for more money than the Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) from the government. Your employer can’t offer you less than SMP. 

Your employer is also obliged to give you time off for your antenatal appointments. Your partner is also entitled take unpaid time off to accompany the woman to up to two of her antenatal appointments.  You can read more about this here.

The government states that your maternity leave and SMP will start automatically if you are off work for a pregnancy related illness in the four weeks before your baby is born.

Your baby’s development in week 23

• Size of a grapefruit

• Weighs approximately 540g

While your baby’s lungs aren’t able to work properly yet, they are practising breathing movements to prepare for when they are born. Your baby currently gets all of its nutrients and oxygen from you and your placenta. 

Your baby’s skin will still be looking quite saggy but will now be a pinkish colour as the network of veins and arteries develop.

Week 23 Checklist

You might like to:

• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help you feel healthy and well during your pregnancy. It can also help reduce constipation and tiredness. Aim for 6-8 200ml glasses of fluid a day but try to avoid too much caffeine or fizzy drinks. If it’s hot you obviously may have to increase your fluid intake.

• Avoid alternative or complementary therapies. Not all of these types of treatment are safe in pregnancy and some herbal remedies can be harmful. If you’re considering an alternative therapy, talk to your GP or midwife first. If you decide to go ahead, make sure you choose a qualified or registered practitioner.

• Write your hospital bag list. You’ve still got plenty of time to pack your bag but now might be a good time to start thinking about what you need and to begin to accumulate it. You will need to think about what you need for you, labour itself, the baby and your birth partner. Luckily, we’ve written a helpful blog about this here You’re welcome!

Spotlight on: Leg cramps

Each week we'll be delving into the common symptoms of pregnancy and bringing you top tips for managing them from our team of specialists and parent community.

Ouch! Leg cramps are keeping me up at night

We’re sure you don’t need us to explain the unique pain that leg cramps are as during pregnancy won’t be the first time you’ve had one. But annoyingly they are another common symptom, which can affect a lot of women, especially in the latter stages of pregnancy. They can often happen at night, giving you another reason to have a disturbed night’s sleep - great!

Why? 

Leg cramps are caused when a muscle in your leg shortens and tightens and causes an intense pain. This pain can last from a few seconds to up to 10 minutes. You might have experienced them in your calf at night, but they can also happen in your feet and, less commonly, in your thigh.

Most cramps will go away without you having to do anything apart from perhaps stretching or massaging the area to relieve the tension. The area might feel tender the next day. 

It’s not known why leg cramps happen during pregnancy but it could be due to changes in your metabolism, less exercise, dehydration or vitamin deficiencies.

Top tips: 

If you’re being woken up by leg cramps your GP or midwife might be able to recommend some foot and calf stretches which could help. Sadly, there’s not really a way of stopping them happening completely. 

Stretches could include bending and stretching your foot up and down, pulling your toes up hard towards your ankle and rotating your foot clockwise and anticlockwise. Try to do these exercises at least once every day.

In very rare instances cramping could be a sign of a blood clot which is more serious and will need urgent attention. See your GP if you’re getting cramps very often and if you notice any swelling or numbness in your leg.

Birth story of the week

Susan and James attended our Stratford and Forest Gate course before Annabel was born

“Baby Annabel's birth fell firmly in the category of 'could have been worse'! We had thought carefully about our birth preferences with the help of the HPHB proforma, but knew from the course (and from hearing other parent’s experiences) that it's very unpredictable and these could all potentially go out the window, so we knew we'd have to just go with the flow. We had hoped for a midwife-led birth with the help of hypnobirthing and possibly a waterbirth, but unfortunately my waters only partially broke on their own, and because I had had an antenatal urine sample positive for Group B Strep they artificially ruptured the remaining membranes - this meant I had to be on the labour ward from the get-go.

“We still managed to use some of our hypnobirthing techniques that we learned on HPHB, but the intensity and pain from the contractions increased so suddenly after the ARM, that after about an hour and a half of trying to manage them, I had an epidural. The epidural was fantastic and I actually cried tears of relief when it started working. The information we learned about epidurals during the HPHB meant I felt totally OK about having one - there are risks associated of course, but I felt really well informed about them and knew it was definitely the right thing for me at that point in time. I was lucky enough that the anaesthetist did a 'patient-controlled' epidural which meant I could control (roughly) how strong it was via a button, choosing either to top it up or let it wear off a little bit. After the epidural we had a very chilled afternoon - we had a nap and watched a bit of trashy TV. The only downside was I wasn't allowed to eat any of the many snacks my husband had packed. He did though! The midwife examined me 4 hours later and I was fully dilated! So after a further hour of rest, it was time to start pushing. The patient-controlled epidural meant I could hold off pressing the button for that hour so I could feel my contractions a bit more. It was great as I could feel the pressure but couldn't feel any pain, and in between contractions I was totally comfortable. So much so I was singing along to the songs on our birth soundtrack (Ed Sheeran, Paolo Nutini, etc.).I was pushing for about 1h45min when baby started showing some decelerations on the monitor, so the room started to fill up with more doctors and midwives. They used a ventouse for the final two contractions and so I needed a small episiotomy, and there she was!”

We really do love hearing about all of the new arrivals!

Treat of the week

Treat yourself to some hands-free time with the BabyBjorn bouncer. This baby bouncer supports your baby exactly as they should be and doesn’t require any batteries - it naturally rocks with the baby’s movements. It’s also great if you’re short for space as it folds flat and is easy to store away.

Products are based on suggestions from our specialists and community of parents. We may earn commission from shopping links.

Join our community

Happy Parents Happy Baby is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey.

Connect with other parents-to-be and learn everything you need to know, by joining our award-winning antenatal classes.

That's all for now...

Thank you so much for joining us!

Have a great week.

Team HPHB x

Information you
can trust

Our articles are based on the latest-evidence based guidelines and scientific research and are written by our team of medical experts.

Coming up
next week

• Testing for gestational diabetes

• Spotlight on: nosebleeds

Check out our Instagram page for extra resources from our team of experts and for free live events, such as pregnancy relaxation sessions

Follow us @happyparents.happybaby