Your Pregnancy at Week 10

If you haven't looked in the mirror lately, it's time to check out that belly bump you're sporting! At week 10, your uterus is the size of a grapefruit versus the pear-size uterus you had before getting pregnant, so your midsection is a bit fuller now. And though it may not be time for maternity clothes, don't be surprised if your typical wardrobe is beginning to feel snug! If you wish to avoid maternity clothing for as long as possible, look for forgiving pants and skirts with elastic waistbands.

Are you wondering why your veins are much more noticeable these days? This is because your blood volume increases 40 to 50 percent during pregnancy. So, if you are becoming increasingly aware of the veins in your breasts, legs, and stomach, don't worry! This is totally normal.

It's also expected to feel aches and pains in your abdomen as it stretches to accommodate your baby's growth. This is called round ligament pain. If you're concerned about abdominal aches and pains, mention this at your next midwife or doctor appointment.

Perhaps this pregnancy has been all smooth sailing, or perhaps your pregnancy symptoms are in full swing, both of these are completely normal. Here is a list of some, but not all, symptoms commonly experienced during week 10.

Swollen, tender breasts: you may experience some sensitivity in your breasts and nipples as your body makes preparations for eventually producing breast milk. This process happens whether or not you decide to breastfeed and is just one example of how our amazing bodies are designed to care for our babies. 

Morning sickness, nausea, and/or vomiting: this notorious pregnancy symptom can vary drastically from pregnancy to pregnancy and despite the name may not be limited to the morning hours. Nausea may or may not be accompanied by vomiting and can be triggered by hunger, strong smells… or at times seemingly nothing at all. 

Excess saliva: Increased saliva is called “ptyalism” and can sometimes even taste bitter. The volume and flavor of this first trimester spit can sometimes serve as an additional trigger for nausea and vomiting. 

Lower back pain: later in pregnancy the pressure and weight of your growing baby may lead to back pain. During the first trimester, the culprit is most likely hormonal changes causing your ligaments to relax and stretch, straining your lower back and pelvis. 

Round ligament pain: As your uterus begins to stretch to accommodate your growing baby, surrounding ligaments will also stretch. This may result in short, sharp pain. Rest is the best solution for round ligament pain, but talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing continuous pain that is not stopping. 

Visible veins: increased blood flow may result in more pronounced veins. Some individuals will even experience what are known as varicose or spider veins, which may be unsightly, itchy, or even painful. Changing positions frequently, avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time, and not crossing your legs may all help avoid the formation of varicose veins. 

Mood swings: crying over a laundry detergent commercial? Hormone fluctuations may leave you feeling extreme emotions from joy to irritation; sometimes switching without warning. If your reactions seem to be irrational, know that your growing baby may be the explanation.

Vaginal discharge: increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy is called leucorrhoea. This symptom can serve as a protection for your growing baby as it prevents infection from traveling up the vagina and into the womb. You can wear a panty liner if it makes you more comfortable, but do not use tampons or insert anything into your vagina during pregnancy.  

Heartburn and/or indigestion:  Increased levels of progesterone cause your digestive system to slow down so nutrients can be more easily absorbed, but this can result in digestive discomfort including heartburn and indigestion. Talk to your medical care provider about options for relief if you’re feeling too uncomfortable.

Constipation, bloating, and/or gas: like heartburn, hormonal changes that slow digestion can also trigger constipation, bloating, and/or gas. Take care to stay hydrated, up your fiber intake, and talk to your doctor if you are still experiencing constipation.

Watch out for UTIs, which are more common to get during pregnancy.

Talk to your midwife or doctor about which exercises are and aren't okay for you during this pregnancy.

Take advantage of these early months of pregnancy by fitting in one last, pre-baby vacation, also known as a "babymoon." Welcoming a new baby is certainly a reason for celebration. But it also means giving up quite a bit of your spontaneity. A quick trip with friends, or a few leisurely hours at the beach with a drink, will not be as easy as you think, once your little one is here. Babies are small and portable, it's true! However, traveling with a baby will certainly change the dynamics of any vacation. Preparing for these changes with one last worry-free trip sans baby is as good a reason as any for a bit of rest and relaxation.

To plan this escape, first check with your doctor. Even with a healthy pregnancy, free of complications, your doctor may have some restrictions regarding when and where you travel. For example, most doctors will recommend against traveling too far from home or flying during the later stages of pregnancy. You likely won't feel up to traveling during your last couple months of pregnancy anyways, so it is generally better to plan on taking your getaway before the end of your second trimester.

Pregnancy doesn't mean giving up the physical activity you've always enjoyed, but it isn't the time to try something, like skiing, for the first time. That being said, if you are already quite winded after climbing a flight of stairs, you may want to forego the usual hiking trips and take a leisurely stroll through a historic city instead.

The whole idea behind a babymoon is to do things that offer you fun and relaxation, with plenty of down time. Have some quality alone time with your partner. Take some time off from work and book an overnight stay at a nearby destination. Spend a weekend at home, in bed, with no distractions. This new phase of life you are entering and the joys of welcoming this new life into the world deserve a little celebration.

Schedule any prenatal testing you've decided on.

Write in your pregnancy journal.