Hi mom,

This is it. The final week of your first trimester. Right about now, I’ve got a pretty giant head – it’s actually about a third of my entire body length. By the time I’m born, it’ll even out to be about just a quarter of my size. That head is home to a set of developing teeth, and below that, my vocal chords are forming so I can let out those middle-of-the-night screams, and eventually, say ‘I love you’. I’m now about three inches long and roughly the size of a peach. Believe it or not, if I’m a girl, millions of eggs are forming in my ovaries so that one day I might be able to have a baby of my own. Also cool? My arm and leg bones are starting to form along with my fingerprints, and I’m more than a little tempted to start sucking on my thumb.

So look, promise you won’t talk to me about this when I’m actually out in the world…but are you feeling a little frisky right now? Lots of women report an increase in their sex drives around this time – and many dads aren’t far behind. What can I say? That healthy pregnancy glow plus a cocktail of hormones can be simply irresistible. It is safe to have sex when you’re pregnant, so don’t worry if you’re looking to have some fun. Speaking of what’s going on ‘down there’, you may start to notice a milky vaginal discharge around this time, known as leukorrhea. It’s a special yet harmless discharge that actually prevents bacteria and infections in the birth canal, and it’ll only increase in the coming weeks. Try panty liners to minimize the mess.

As you round the corner into the second trimester, a lot of those early day symptoms – like fatigue, nausea, and frequent urination – should start to taper off. With your mind more clear, you’re probably going to start having a million questions about me. While your doctor is always a great resource, why not talk to friends or family members that have also gone through pregnancy? Every woman’s pregnancy experience is unique, and sharing your fears, doubts, and questions with another person can be a great way to relieve tension and get perspective. You can even look online at pregnancy or mom blogs, or join a community of women with similar due dates so you can share your individual stories.

I know it’s a lot of work carrying me, so I thought I should say thank you right here and now. Whatever you’re feeling right now, it’s okay to think about me, “No one else will ever know the strength of my love for you. After all, you’re the only one who knows what my heart sounds like from the inside.” – Anonymous

Love,
Baby