Day 166 of 280, second trimester
You are 23 weeks and 5 days
Yoga in pregnancy can be hugely beneficial, physically and emotionally.
114 days until your due date
As well as strengthening and toning your muscles, yoga makes you more aware of your breathing. Learning to control your breathing is a great way to relax in pregnancy and invaluable preparation for breathing through contractions in labor.
Standing poses build core stability, strengthening your back and abdominal muscles, which helps when the extra weight affects your balance. Calm sitting poses that align your spine help you steady your breathing and center yourself. If you feel unsteady, lean against a wall.
Pilates is also good in pregnancy, making you more aware of your body and giving you more control and confidence. It includes Kegel exercises too.
Whatever class you choose, find an accredited instructor experienced in teaching pregnant women. There are now many specialized pregnancy yoga and Pilates classes.
Explainer
Pregnancy yoga classes
Pregnancy yoga classes are a great way to exercise gently and meet other pregnant women.
As a matter of fact
Yoga's benefits
Prenatal yoga under expert supervision is safe and may reduce the risk of complications.
A recent study found that women who practiced yoga in pregnancy had a lower risk of pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and premature labor.
Ask a Doctor
Why are hemorrhoids common in pregnancy?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins, like varicose veins, around the anus. The weight of the baby presses down on your back passage, restricting blood flow and making the veins swell.
They can be itchy, sore, and throbbing. Cold packs and creams with lubricants (to help stools pass) and/or local anesthetic (to ease soreness) can help. They can bleed, so you may see bright red blood on the toilet paper.
Try not to get constipated, because straining makes hemorrhoids worse; drink lots of water and eat enough fiber. If they become very troublesome, see your doctor.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
Read the full 23 weeks pregnant guide
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.