Pregnancy calendar - week #17

Pregnant mothers - week #17

Keep your eyes up here boys!

Perhaps some time in the last few weeks you've caught a glimpse of yourself in the mirror, and just had to ask, 'are those really my breasts?' By now, you've probably noticed a few changes happening with the twins. Here are some common changes you may have noticed:

• Increased size, up to two cup sizes (due to more blood flow)
• More visible veins
• Darker nipples
• Bumps on areolas more pronounced (these are called Montgomery's tubercles)
• Breast tenderness and itchiness

In addition to these changes, the body is also preparing itself to produce milk. Colostrum, which is the milk produced before birth and during the first days of breastfeeding, may start to appear in the third month. This milk is perfect for baby's first days of feeding, as it's easy to digest, works as a laxative, and helps protect your tiny baby from harmful bacteria and viruses. Isn't the body amazing?

In addition to breast changes, you may also notice an increase in bodily secretions: You may sweat more; you may be congested; you may notice increased vaginal discharge. If you do, remember these are all symptoms of pregnancy. C'est la vie.

You know that there is an increase in blood flow during pregnancy, but you may not know that this increase can cause nosebleeds in pregnant women. This is usually the cause of expanding blood vessels in the nose. This increased blood flow is also causing that beautiful pregnant glow. You win some and you lose some!

Baby and fetal development - week #17

Cause you've got...personality!

Baby is growing and becoming more and more like a real-world baby (not the MTV kind!)

For one, she is developing more fat under her skin. Tipping in at a svelte 5 ounces (that's like 2 king size candy bars), she now weighs more than the placenta. She is about 5.1 inches long.

Many women have visions of a fetus as a being that doesn't have a personality until it reaches the outside world. Fortunately, that isn't true at all! Baby is a baby from the beginning. One amazing reminder of that: around week 17, she might get startled if she hears a loud noise. Also, if a flashlight is shined up to mommy's belly, the baby might turn away. Amazing, you really are carrying a baby!

Also in week 17:

• The placenta continues to grow. It's now supplying nutrients and oxygen to baby.
• Baby's scalp patterns are beginning to form.

Pregnant dads - week #17

A penny saved...

We all know that having a kid is expensive, but how expensive? During the first year, parents spend between $10,000 and $11,000. This sounds like a lot, but if you start planning now, you'll think of ways to cut costs. Start with the necessities, a whatever you have left can go to the extras.