Suspicions confirmed? Whether you have used a home pregnancy test or just have a sneaking suspicion that you may be pregnant, now is the time to start planning the best pregnancy for you and your child.

The embryo is embedded deeply into the lining of your uterus. Amniotic fluid is starting to fill the amniotic cavity. The placenta is forming and will play a pivotal role in hormone production and transport of oxygen and nutrients.

If you exercise regularly, you might want to decrease to 80% of your normal intensity. If you do not exercise regularly, now is the time to start.

Always check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program, but pregnant women usually benefit both emotionally and physically from brisk walking, stationary bicycling, swimming, or other low-impact aerobic activities. Physical fitness helps you endure the work of labor and delivery over the next 9 months. Whatever your level of fitness, be careful not to become overheated, dehydrated, or over-exerted (heart beat over 140 beats per minute).

Medications will have an effect on your baby. Aspirin can cause increased bleeding and changes in blood clotting function. Acetaminophen in small doses is a better choice for pain relief.

If you smoke or drink alcohol – STOP!

Both these activities have been proven to inhibit growth and development of the baby. Smoking interferes with absorption of Vitamins B and C and folic acid, causes decreased birth weight, and increases the risk of miscarriage or death of the baby soon after birth.