What's growing
Fat stores begin
About 13 cm. Brown fat starts laying down — future temperature regulation.
Source: Moore, Persaud & Torchia, The Developing Human, 11th ed. (2020)
What's changing in you
Stretchier ligaments
Relaxin softens connective tissue. Easier on the hips, riskier for ankle rolls. Walk on stable ground.
Source: Bø et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine 50(10), 2016 — Pelvic floor & exercise in pregnancy
General info — not personalized medical advice.
Maternal brain
Body image renegotiation
Becoming a body that grows another body is a real psychological task. Mirror-time can intensify it.
Source: Athan, Matrescence framework, Columbia University (2011–present)
You & baby
Belly-mapping rituals
Notice where you feel movement when it starts. Over time, you'll know shapes, rhythms, preferences.
Source: Cranley, Nursing Research 30(5), 1981 — Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale
For your partner
Compliment the body, not despite it
Partner positivity about the pregnant body is correlated with maternal body satisfaction.
Source: Cowan & Cowan, When Partners Become Parents (1992; 2nd ed. 2000)
Move with care
Glute strength is gold
Bridges, banded walks, step-ups. Strong glutes carry a growing belly and protect the low back (Bø 2016).
Source: Bø et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine 50(10), 2016 — Pelvic floor & exercise in pregnancy
General info — not personalized medical advice.
Eat for two brains
Magnesium-rich foods
Pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, leafy greens — may ease cramps and constipation.
Source: Biagi et al., Nutrients 11(5), 2019 — Mediterranean diet in pregnancy
General info — not personalized medical advice.
60-second prompt
How do you talk to your changing body?
Notice the words. They become a soundtrack.
Source: Lieberman et al., Psychological Science 18(5), 2007 — Affect labeling
Developed and curated by perinatal psychologists, family & couples counsellors, doulas, perinatal health & fitness specialists, and IBCLCs / lactation consultants. Educational — not a substitute for medical care.