2nd trimester: Week 18

Health

Cook seafood thoroughly to zap parasites or bacteria that could compromise your growing baby's health, and stay away from raw fish like sushi or oysters on the half shell. Shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish are off-limits for now, since they've been found to have high levels of methyl mercury that could hamper brain development. Experts also suggest you limit canned Albacore tuna to six ounces per week.

Health Watch:

Mom to Mom

"With my first child, I stopped working two weeks before she was due. But that whole time, all I did was worry and wait--and then she was two weeks late. When I was expecting my second and third, I worked until the day I delivered."--Stephanie Adams, Lexington, KY

Hot Picks:

Shopping

You may be able to hold off on buying maternity clothes for a few more weeks by borrowing from your partner's closet. Oversize T-shirts, shirts, sweaters, and drawstring shorts may give you more breathing room than anything in your own wardrobe.

Exercise

If you aren't already working out, it isn't too late to start. Exercise will pep you up, curb stress, and tone your abdominal muscles. Check first with your doctor or midwife before you hit the gym, though. Low-impact activities that are easy on the joints, such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga, may be your best bet.

Quick Tips:

Plus Size Pregnancy Dos and Don'ts

Relationships

Don't let financial fears drive a wedge between you and your partner. Having a baby can stress your budget, but if you strategize now for the future, you'll feel much more secure and can start working toward your goals together.

How Will They React?