Pregnancy Calendar – Week Nine

At almost one inch long, your baby-to-be is about the size of a large grape! The embryonic period is almost complete: most of the developing physical structures such as the head, arms, legs, and torso are in place, and are now ready to grow rapidly. The fingers and toes are better defined and the plates of the skull are forming. The baby’s head is more erect; however, it still looks slightly larger than the rest of the body. The earlobes have formed, and during this week, the inner structures of the ears will be completed. The baby’s upper lip is fully formed, and the mouth and nose are more distinct. Small eyelids are forming and almost cover the eyes. The retinal nerve cells in the back of the eyes are growing. By this point, the baby’s heart has most likely divided into four separate chambers. At nine weeks, your little one has started developing sex organs, but they won’t be discernible as male or female yet.

Many women report some nasal congestion during pregnancy. This stuffiness is due to increased blood flow, which causes swelling of the mucus membranes. Nosebleeds and snoring are also common concerns related to this swelling—some women report having postnasal drip and cough. To help you breathe easier, try using a saline spray or saline drops in your nose. Since nasal congestion is aggravated by dry air, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially at night. If needed, ask your doctor which medications are safe to help with congestion.

You may be apprehensive about the changes that are happening in your body now and that will continue during the next several months. Many women have struggled with the fear of giving up control of their bodies in order to have children. You can remind yourself that the changes are happening for a very good reason: you’re creating a baby! Some women report feeling more comfortable with their bodies during pregnancy; they feel more relaxed and have a sense of peace. Feeling alternately ecstatic and terrified about becoming a parent is also completely normal. Almost all expectant moms worry about how a new baby will change their lives. (For one mom’s journey, read “Parenthood: A New Kind of Adventure.”)


Hot Topic: Relaxation Techniques

Feeling constant anxiety and worry is very common for many pregnant women, especially if it’s your first pregnancy. It’s important to find ways to relax and relieve stress. Even if you don’t have a lot of time in your day, you can still find ways to relax. If you feel yourself getting tense or upset often, try these suggestions: