You are 14 weeks exactly

It can be hard to avoid information overload, because everyone seems to have advice to share.

182 days until your due date

Every pregnant woman has to deal with conflicting advice: one article says one thing and a friend says the opposite, which can be confusing and irritating. You can stop reading a newspaper or change the channel, but unwanted advice from other women is harder to avoid, and advice from close relatives such as your mother or mother-in-law is harder still. You'll need your family's and friends' support, so you won't want to alienate them, but don't feel pressured to do things their way. And don't reject everything; some advice may be useful and accurate.

If someone keeps advising you, explain that you're overwhelmed with information and would rather not talk about the pregnancy right now. Or listen, smile politely, and then do what you want. You could also hint that you'll ask for advice when you need it.

Focus on

Your body: Style challenge

Give yourself a hair makeover:

There's no evidence that hair dye chemicals harm your baby, although little research has been done on pregnant women. If you want to be cautious, skip the chemicals and get a new cut.
If you're worried, stick to highlights, which don't expose your whole scalp to dye, and make sure the room is well ventilated.
If you color your own hair, do it somewhere well ventilated and always wear the gloves provided.

Explainer

Pamper yourself

The second trimester is a great time to treat yourself to a new haircut and color to go with your glowing skin.

Ask a Doctor

Why are varicose veins common in pregnancy, and how can I avoid them?

Your blood volume rises by up to 30 percent in pregnancy to meet your baby's and your body's needs. The hormone relaxin, which softens ligaments and joints, also softens your blood vessel walls. Relaxed vessels, extra blood, and the weight of the baby make varicose veins more likely.

To reduce your chances of getting them:

Don't sit or stand in one position for long; walk around regularly, moving your arms to boost blood flow.
Exercise daily. Most cardio helps blood flow, and water aerobics is especially good because the water pressure boosts circulation.
Sleep with your legs slightly raised by putting a pillow under the bottom sheet at the foot of the bed.

This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.

Your body: Style challenge

Pamper yourself

Why are varicose veins common in pregnancy, and how can I avoid them?

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