Fetal Development:
	Taking root! Implantation occurs. Once the blastocyst gets to the uterus, it searches for a spot to settle down. Blastocyst means "sprout pouch," and these cells begin to divide into two groups - those that form the placenta and those that form the baby. The blastocyst will burrow itself into the lining of the uterus which is called implantation. Multiples: Same as above times two, or three, etc. See week three for more information on twinning.

At the end of this week, you'll be expecting your period (or hoping it won't come if you've planned your pregnancy). Some of the first pregnancy symptoms are very similar to those experienced at the time your period is due such as fatigue, breast soreness and mood swings. You may be feeling these things and thinking "I guess it didn't happen this month." Just wait a few days . . . Multiples: You probably aren't even thinking twins yet unless you've had infertility treatments. Your symptoms will be similar to singleton moms but intensified.

Ideas for Dad:

Is Mom ignoring you while she's waiting and hoping her period will (won't?) start at the end of the week? Or is she a clinging vine? Whichever (and nearly everything in between) she is, she's normal. It can be an emotional time for her.

Inspirational Thoughts:

Let us make pregnancy an occasion when we appreciate our female bodies. ~Merete Leonhardt-Lupa

Reading:

Your Pregnancy Week-by-Week by Glade B. Curtis, MD, FACOG, published by Fisher Books, 2000