Welcome to the 10th week of pregnancy! As you near the end of the first trimester, you may begin finding relief from some of the symptoms of the first few months. Though some moms don’t find relief for many months- so be prepared. New problems may begin popping up however- so now is the time to take care of any problems before they get out of hand.
What you may be experiencing
Months of morning sickness and fatigue may leave you feeling drained- and it is easy to let some things fall to the wayside. So much attention is on your stomach right now, it is easy to forget out your mouth. Moms-to-be at this stage may begin to experience swelling and bleeding of the gums. While some swelling is normal, it can quickly become a serious problem. Studies show that women with periodontal disease are more likely to give birth to pre-term low birth weight babies.
Good oral care, proper diet, and regular dental appointments are very important during this stage in your life. So try to schedule a dental appointment now before you get caught up in nursery decorations and shower plans. Make sure to let your dentist know that you are expecting, as some procedures are not recommended for moms-to-be.
Your Baby
Your baby is beginning to look more like a baby! They have visible fingers and toes now, and their tadpole like tail is almost completely gone. Ears and lips are now complete, and external genitalia are now present. You won’t be able to see it via ultrasound for several more weeks, though.
Your baby is officially a fetus!
Concerns or points of interest
There are a variety of prenatal testing options that you may want to consider. Discuss your options and risk factors with your doctor to determine your best course of action. Older moms or those with a history of problems may be urged to get certain tests. Some tests can be administered with a blood test or ultrasound, while others require more invasive techniques. Don’t be afraid to research and ask questions- this is your body and your baby!