2nd trimester: Week 17

Mom to Mom

Advice from moms in the know: "If your job involves managing clients, let them know as soon as possible that you're expecting and assure them that your temporary replacement will be prepared to take over by the time you go."--Sarah Edwards, mother and coauthor of Working From Home

Shopping

Splurge on pants made especially for pregnant women, outfitted with stretchy front panels. Buying regular pairs in larger sizes may save you money, but they'll probably be too big in the legs or not clingy enough to fit snugly around your waist. Hip brands such as Seven, Gap, Old Navy, and Target have their own maternity lines, too, meaning you don't have to change your style just because you're expecting.

Hot Picks:

• Hand-Me-Down Etiquette
• Picking A Play Yard
• 12 Simple Things Your Baby Needs
• Baby Gear Personal Shopper

Exercise

Skip exercises that call for you to lie flat on your back. After the fourth or fifth month, the position puts you at risk for compressing a major blood vessel, called the vena cava, and decreasing blood flow to the baby. 

Relationships

Spread the joy and update close friends and family members with a mass e-mail after every checkup. They'll be glad to know you're doing well and will feel honored you're involving them in your pregnancy.

It's Good to Have Friends:

• Pregnant Pals
• Bringing Up "Our" Baby