1st trimester: Week 11

Mom to Mom

Stumped for a name? Look to your past for inspiration. "When I was in first grade, I sat next to a boy named Eric. He was cool and quiet, yet he talked to me (which was unusual because I was extremely shy). Twenty-one years later, I named my first son after this boy, whom I can still envision leaning over and asking me questions."--Andria Mickenbecker, Plainfield, IL

Shopping

You need the big-ticket items -- like the stroller, crib, and car seat. What you don't need is to pay a fortune. Here's how to save. Because baby furniture and custom-made bedding can take months to be delivered, consider ordering them soon so you'll have plenty of time to get the nursery ready.

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Exercise

Kegel exercises strengthen your pelvic muscles and help ward off incontinence, both during pregnancy and after delivery. Supplement quick squeezes of the muscles around the vagina and anus with longer squeezes of 10 seconds, 10 to 20 times in a row, three times each day.

Relationships

Take advantage of the months ahead to discuss how a new baby will change your relationship. While you and your partner may be excited to meet your little one, you may also have a few fears, too. It helps to talk to each other about these concerns so you can come up with solutions that work for both of you. Plus, keeping the lines of communication open brings you closer together.

Family Bonds:

Siblings

It's tempting to divulge your baby news early on, but before you do so, decide with your partner on a game plan. If your child is less than 3 years old, the wait will feel interminable, so experts suggest holding off until you're further along. But if she is old enough to handle the expectation, and if it just doesn't feel like a true celebration without her knowing, by all means celebrate the wonderful news as a family next week, which marks the start of the second trimester.

Twins

If you're carrying more than one baby, you've probably gained more weight by now than the average pregnant woman. While watching the numbers inch quickly up the scale can be disheartening, take comfort in the knowledge that you're helping your babies grow strong and healthy. That's why it's so important to ensure those extra calories you're taking in pack a nutritional punch. Some options: fruit smoothies, low-fat cheese, and fresh salads.