You’re 9 weeks pregnant!
What does 9 weeks equal in months?
You know the pregnancy math is weird, so you may be asking, “How many months is 9 weeks pregnant?” Well, at this point, you’re still two months pregnant, but soon you’ll be heading into your second trimester.
Your ultrasound
Your week 9 ultrasound may give you a glimpse into your baby’s heartbeat, so if you’ve got an appointment on the books, that’s something to look forward to. If it’s a twin pregnancy, week 9 is when you’d find out that news as well. Your doctor will be looking to ensure that fetus is within the uterus.
Your pregnant belly at 9 weeks
Now is the time to buy those leggings and comfy clothes if you haven’t already. You still may not need maternity clothing, but for comfort, stretchy fabrics and loose-fitting clothing will be your best friends going forward. If you’re lucky enough to be pregnant during warmer months, cute dresses are always a stylish go-to option.
Pregnancy tips at 9 weeks
- If you’re experiencing nasal congestion, you may be able to relieve symptoms by running a humidifier at night to help open nasal passages and loosen mucus. Check with your doctor to see if she recommends a menthol cough drop to help you clear your nasal passages if it is truly uncomfortable and difficult to breathe. Staying hydrated can also help; consider drinking lemon or lime water as well. The citrus will help loosen mucus and is a healthful addition to your diet, overall.
- If you’re experiencing heartburn, chalk that up to hormones as well. The hormones are helping your body relax uterine muscles, but also relax the area between our stomach and esophagus and this can cause heartburn. Combat this uncomfortable pregnancy symptom by eating several small meals throughout the day and avoiding heartburn-causing foods.
- Headaches tend to kick in around week 9 of your pregnancy, so of course staying hydrated, getting rest and eating regularly can help. At your first prenatal appointment, your doctor or nurse should go over with you what pain-relieving medications are safe for you to take. Ideally, Tylenol is the most recommended option, but your doctor will be able to speak to your specific situation.
- Ginger has been known to be an effective remedy for morning sickness for some pregnant moms, so that may work for you. There are ginger lollipops on the market that can help. For some moms, sipping on ginger ale tends to work, but often there’s little ginger in soda, so it’s likely added sugar in your diet you don’t really need. Trial and error will be your best bet, at this point.
Your pregnancy checklist at 9 weeks
- Increase your water intake.
- Talk to your doctor about prenatal tests you may need to have done. At this point, blood work will help determine hormone levels, blood type, and red and white blood cell counts. Most moms-to-be are also tested for STDs early on as well as undergo a Pap smear and urine test to ensure there’s no protein in your urine and that you don’t have a urinary tract infection. If you haven’t yet scheduled your prenatal appointment, do so now to get these important tests underway.
What are you eating for you and your baby?
Chances are if you eat eggs, dairy, and meat, you need not worry too much about certain vitamins and minerals like B-12. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you may want to consider taking a supplement. Fruits like bananas, especially beginning at week 9 of pregnancy, can help reduce leg cramps and assist with circulation.
- Lean meats and fish
- Eggs
- Cheese and yogurt
- Green leafy vegetables
- Fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Bananas
