There is good news this week. You are at the end of your first trimester…

Morning sickness will stop soon and your appetite will return. Your breasts are getting bigger and you may begin to show.

Due to the increased oestrogen levels, the pale line that runs from the navel to the pubic bone may also darken. This is called the linea nigra (black line).

Your skin may also break out with acne and pimples. Indigestion, heartburn and constipation may continue.

Your Baby

She is about 76 mm long now and weighs around 14 grams.

Your baby's eyes and ears will move closer together into their final positions. Her intestines are also growing rapidly. She can now swallow fluids. Her kidneys are also functioning. So she will urinate as well.

Her reflexes will kick in sometime around now. So she will be able to suck and even squirm. However, you will still not feel her move.

Get Tested

• Doppler Test

It is okay if…

• You still have indigestion.
• You are constipated and have haemorrhoids.

Eat Healthy

• Drink a glass of soy milk or eat yoghurt daily.
• Eat and drink soybean products that do not contain sucrose.
• Eat dark red beans, chick peas, dark green and dark yellow veggies as these are high in iron.

Avoid

• Unboiled milk
• Citric fruit juices
• Undercooked meat and poultry
• Late night snacks
• Fatty or fast foods

Stay Fit

You can continue your exercise routine, unless advised otherwise by your gynaecologist.

Special Care Tips

• It is time to start shopping for maternity clothes. This includes undergarments as well.
• If you need to travel, do so now. Airlines have regulations against travelling after your third month.
• Your body is more prone to infections. So make sure the meat you eat is well cooked and vegetables are thoroughly washed before cooking. Also, avoid mixing with people having infectious diseases.
• Wash your face with a mild facewash twice a day to reduce acne and pimples.
• Prevent heartburn by eating small meals and avoid fried, spicy or fatty foods.