What the first trimester includes The first trimester extends from week 1 through the end of week 12. Because pregnancy dating begins with the first day of the last menstrual period, weeks 1 and 2 usually occur before ovulation and…

How pregnancy is divided into trimesters A full-term pregnancy is often described as lasting about 40 weeks, counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. This dating convention means that the first two weeks of a counted pregnancy…

The myth of the always-happy pregnancy The idea that pregnancy should be continuously joyful is powerful. It appears in social media announcements, family expectations, advertising, and even casual comments such as “you must be so excited.” For some people, pregnancy…

Why this myth is so painful The myth that stress causes miscarriage can turn grief into self-blame. After a loss, it is natural for the mind to look for a controllable explanation: “I was too anxious,” “I cried too much,”…

Why the myth persists The belief that ultrasound might harm a baby often comes from a very reasonable instinct: pregnancy is a time when people want to avoid unnecessary risk. Medical technology can feel mysterious, and the word “scan” may…

Why the myth exists The myth that hair dye is unsafe during pregnancy likely persists because it contains a kernel of understandable concern. Hair dyes can contain chemicals, including aromatic amines, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia or ammonia substitutes, resorcinol, and other…

The short answer: flying is usually safe in uncomplicated pregnancy For most pregnant people without obstetric or medical complications, occasional commercial air travel is considered safe. This position is supported by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Mayo…

The myth: one wrong sleep position can hurt the baby The most distressing version of the myth suggests that a single night, nap, or accidental roll onto the back can directly injure the baby. That is not how the evidence…

The short answer: sex is usually not dangerous in a healthy pregnancy For most people with a normal, uncomplicated pregnancy, sex can continue throughout pregnancy if it feels comfortable and no clinician has advised otherwise. This includes vaginal intercourse, oral…

The short answer: most pregnant people can exercise The statement “you cannot exercise while pregnant” is too broad and, for most pregnancies, incorrect. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that physical activity and exercise in pregnancy are associated…