Bump & Beyond

Explore Pregnancy Week by Week

Looking for more information about what to expect each week of your pregnancy and into the postpartum period? Explore our week-by-week content below.

First Trimester

week 08 raspberry
TrimesterFirst Trimester

Week 8

Your first prenatal visit sets the stage for a healthy pregnancy. Get labs and a physical exam, plan next visits, and ask questions that matter to you.
week 09 green olive
TrimesterFirst Trimester

Week 9

Good nutrition supports your baby’s growth and your energy. The Women, Infants & Children Nutrition Program (WIC) can help you get healthy food and learn about safe weight gain.
week 10 prune
TrimesterFirst Trimester

Week 10

A healthy pregnancy starts with knowing your health status. Sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing is recommended three times during pregnancy.
week 11 lime
TrimesterFirst Trimester

Week 11

Not sure about genetic tests for the baby? Learn what the tests look for, what results can show, and how to decide what’s right for you.
week 12 plum
TrimesterFirst Trimester

Week 12

Ask if low-dose (“baby”) aspirin is right for you. Taking it daily after 12 weeks can lower the risk of preeclampsia.
week 13 peach
TrimesterFirst Trimester

Week 13

Pregnancy can bring joy and stress. Feeling anxious, sad, or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Learn ways to cope and when to get help.

Second Trimester

week 14 lemon
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 14

Join a Centering group! Get care in a group setting to learn and share with others in a supportive space.
week 15 apple
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 15

A healthy mouth helps baby too. Brush twice a day, floss, and schedule a dental visit during pregnancy. MassHealth covers dental care.
week 16 avocado_0
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 16

Eat foods rich in iron—like some meats, beans, lentils, and leafy greens. Iron boosts energy and helps prevent anemia during pregnancy.
week 17 pear_0
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 17

Not sure which medicines are safe in pregnancy? Learn safe options for symptoms like nausea or back pain and simple ways to feel better.
week 18 bell pepper
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 18

Enjoy balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Healthy food supports your baby’s growth and development.
week 19 mango
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 19

Feel like you’re carrying a lot during pregnancy? Extra support can help. Learn how to ask for help in ways that feel right for you.
week 20 artichoke
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 20

A doula offers comfort, support, and advocacy during birth. Learn how to connect with a BMC birth sister or doula.
week 21 pomegranate
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 21

Watch for signs of preterm labor before 37 weeks, like pressure, cramps, or leaking fluid.
week 22 papaya
TrimesterSecond Trimester

Week 22

Watch for signs of high blood pressure like swelling, vision changes, or headaches. Early care helps keep you and your baby safe.

Third Trimester

week 28 eggplant
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 28

Now’s the time to count kicks. You know your baby best—call your provider if movement changes.
week 29 acorn squash
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 29

Want to feel more prepared for labor, birth, and breastfeeding? Explore our classes and education to build confidence and learn what to expect.
week 30 cabbage
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 30

Postpartum is easier with a plan. Learn how to prepare for healing, feeding, sleep, and support at home after birth.
week 31 coconut
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 31

Start your paid family leave paperwork now so you can rest, recover, and bond after birth. Learn if you’re eligible and how to apply.
week 32 jicama
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 32

Getting ready for birth? Pack a small bag with comfy clothes, toiletries, and baby items.

week 33 pineapple
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 33

Planning ahead helps after birth. Mental health support, sleep planning, and meal prep can make recovery easier. Learn how we support respectful, patient-centered care throughout birth and postpartum.
week 34 butternut squash
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 34

Getting close to your due date? Learn where to go when labor starts and what to expect on Labor & Delivery.

week 35 honeydew
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 35

Prenatal milk expression can save colostrum and may help your body prepare for birth.
week 36 swiss chard
TrimesterThird Trimester

Week 36

Keep doing kick counts daily. Ask about delayed cord clamping and skin-to-skin after birth—these support baby’s transition.

Postpartum

BMC_01.29_3:4 - Home-Newborn
illustration of a globe symbol on a computer screenPostpartum

Week 41 (Postpartum Week 1)

Know warning signs after birth—heavy bleeding, fever, chest pain, or severe headache. Learn when to call your provider.
PP-Week-2
illustration of a globe symbol on a computer screenPostpartum

Week 42 (Postpartum Week 2)

Breastfeeding takes practice. Learn where to find lactation support and when to reach out for help if feeding feels hard.
PP-Week-3
illustration of a globe symbol on a computer screenPostpartum

Week 43 (Postpartum Week 3)

It’s okay to not feel okay. If sadness, worry, or anxiety lasts over two weeks, support can help.

PP-Week-4
illustration of a globe symbol on a computer screenPostpartum

Week 44 (Postpartum Week 4)

Pelvic floor healing takes time. Gentle movement and rest can help your body recover and feel stronger week by week.
PP-Week-5
illustration of a globe symbol on a computer screenPostpartum

Week 45 (Postpartum Week 5)

Getting back to “normal” takes time. Learn when it’s safe to drive, exercise, have sex, and plan birth control.
PP-Week-6
illustration of a globe symbol on a computer screenPostpartum

Week 46 (Postpartum Week 6)

Your baby’s brain grows fast. Learn simple ways to talk, play, and bond every day to support healthy development.