9 Weeks!!

You may find yourself riding pregnancy's emotional roller coaster, feeling moody one day and joyful the next. Disturbing as this is to some women who pride themselves on being in control, what you're going through is normal and will probably continue throughout your pregnancy. Up-and-down emotions are partly caused by raging hormones.

At week's end, your fetus measures approximately 2.3 centimetres long. In both shape and size, it resembles a peapod and weighs less than 2 grams. The eyelids are fused and won't open until week 27. The wrists are more developed, ankles have formed, and the fingers and toes are clearly visible. Arms are growing longer and bend at the elbows. By week's end, the inner workings of the ears are complete.

Physically, you are unlikely to look pregnant, but you may feel very tired and sick - not necessarily in the mornings - so cosset yourself. Pregnancy hormones can also play havoc in other ways. Many women suffer from painful headaches and back problems and, unfortunately, these hormones also help make the perfect environment for vaginal thrush.

Staying active can mean a healthier pregnancy and a faster recovery after the birth. Don't overdo it though - choose a safe exercise programme recommended throughout pregnancy and make sure you don't get over heat.