Highlights Constipation can cause hard, dry stools that are painful or difficult to pass. Up to 2 out of 5 people experience constipation during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, medication, and insufficient fiber intake are common causes. Prevention and management include a…

Highlights Pregnancy can cause changes to your skin, including increased sensitivity, dryness, or darkening in certain areas. Most skin changes during pregnancy are temporary and will fade after childbirth. Non-prescription skin care products are generally safe, but check ingredients for…

Highlights Hair may feel thicker during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Some women experience hair thinning or loss during pregnancy and after childbirth. Hair dye is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but precautions can be taken. Certain chemical treatments, like…

Highlights Incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine, feces, or gas. Weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to incontinence during pregnancy. Prevention through a healthy lifestyle and pelvic floor exercises is recommended. Incontinence may persist after childbirth but can…

Highlights Changes in your hormones as well as your growing uterus and baby contribute to back pain in pregnancy. Exercises, stretches, and changing how you do some movements can help prevent and treat back pain in pregnancy. If you feel…

Highlights 40 weeks marks full-term pregnancy, ready for natural childbirth. Common signs of impending labor: intensified Braxton Hicks contractions, dropped abdomen, weight loss, mucus plug release, amniotic fluid leakage. Baby size: 48–51 cm in length, ~3.5 kg in weight. Maternal…

Highlights The final stage of pregnancy: the baby is fully developed and ready for birth. Signs of impending labor include intense Braxton Hicks contractions, dropped abdomen, colostrum discharge, mucus plug release, and amniotic fluid leakage. Fetal growth: ~48–56 cm in…

Highlights Pregnancy enters the final stage, with the baby fully developed. Common maternal changes: abdomen drops, improved breathing, reduced heartburn, frequent Braxton Hicks contractions. Baby size: ~50 cm, ~3.1 kg, head-down position typical. Key labor signs: regular contractions, mucus plug…

Highlights Marks the start of the tenth month of gestation. The baby is full-term and ready for birth; survival outside the womb is typically safe. Average baby size: ~48 cm in length, ~3 kg in weight. Common maternal changes: abdomen…

Highlights Marks the ninth month of pregnancy, approximately 8.5 months from the last menstrual period. Baby weighs around 2.75 kg and measures 46 cm, with fully formed organs. Maternal symptoms include fatigue, back pain, leg swelling, frequent urination, and sleep…