Pregnancy Health

From early pregnancy symptoms to pains and tests of the second and third trimester, Babylist's pregnancy health articles will address all your concerns.

Track, Plan and Connect With the Best Pregnancy Apps
Track your belly, your baby’s growth and even your late-night pickle cravings (yes, really).
By Briana Engelbrecht
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Disaster Relief Guide for Parents: What to Pack, Where to Go & Who to Call
Here’s how to keep your family safe and healthy, no matter the circumstance.
By Jenna Jonaitis
Fact Checked by Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
The Best Prenatal Vitamins to Boost Your Pregnancy Nutrition
Parents and doctors alike recommend these prenatal vitamins to make sure you and your baby get all the nutrients you need.
By Amylia Ryan and Jen LaBracio, CPST
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Alyssa Dweck
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
The Best Skin Care Products for Pregnancy, According to Dermatologists
Looking to boost your pregnancy glow? These expert-backed products keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
The Best At-Home Pregnancy Tests
Wondering if you're pregnant? These pregnancy tests will help you get your answer (before you can get to the doctor’s office).
By Briana Engelbrecht and Karen Reardanz
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
The Best Pregnancy Pillows to Help Get the Sleep You Need
Whether you’re in need of targeted bump support or whole body comfort, these pregnancy pillows are designed to help.
By Latifah Miles
Fact Checked by Karen Reardanz
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
The Best Pregnancy Books about Your Body and Your Baby
A pregnancy book can help you learn all about your growing baby and changing body, and there’s a book for every personality.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What Is Preeclampsia? How to Recognize Signs and Get Treatment
Concerned about preeclampsia? Here’s everything you need to know.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Morning Sickness Survival Guide
It's definitely not fun, but you will get through this. Really.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
The 6 Pregnancy Hormones: How They Affect Your Body & Support Baby
These hormones are responsible for prepping your body and helping your baby grow—and for nearly every symptom during pregnancy.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
What Do Contractions Feel Like?
Contractions are a major part of labor. Here's what they feel like and how to know if they're the real deal.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Feb 21, 2026
Updated Feb 21, 2026
Braxton Hicks Contractions: What They Feel Like and How to Deal With Them
Wondering if you’re experiencing Braxton Hicks or real contractions? Here's how to tell the difference.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Fact Checked by Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Understanding Preterm Labor: How to Recognize It and What to Do
You may be worried about your baby coming early, so here're the facts, signs and treatments for preterm labor.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Feb 21, 2026
Updated Feb 21, 2026
Can You Take Tylenol While Pregnant?
If you're experiencing headaches, body aches or fever, here's what to know about taking acetaminophen.
By Amylia Ryan
Medically Reviewed by Malavika Prabhu
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Sep 24, 2025
Updated Sep 24, 2025
Your Pregnancy Food Guide: What to Know About Nutrition, Cravings & Nausea
Eating doesn’t have to be complicated when you’re pregnant.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
Prenatal Massage Is Perfectly Safe—As Long as You Follow These Guidelines
Prenatal massage therapists are specialized in targeting all those pregnancy aches and pains. So go ahead, pamper yourself.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
From Deli Meats to Unwashed Produce, Here’s the Food to Avoid When Pregnant
These foods can have bacteria, heavy metals and other complication-causing ingredients.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
How to Count Your Pregnancy Weeks
Who would have thought counting would be this complicated?
By Amylia Ryan
Medically Reviewed by Christine Sterling M.D.
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Morning Sickness Symptoms: What to Expect During Pregnancy
Morning sickness isn't fun. Here are the symptoms, causes and ideas for how to get through it.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Yep, Pregnancy Will Change Your Vaginal Discharge
You might see a difference in color, texture and smell—here's why, what's normal and what's not.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
What To Do About Pregnancy Insomnia
Having trouble catching some ZZZs? Here's what you need to know and effective strategies for coping.
By Michelle Rostamian
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
Pregnancy & Baby Products You Can Purchase With HSA/FSA
You can use your spending account funds on dozens of everyday items for both you and baby.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Apr 10, 2026
Updated Apr 10, 2026
How Parents Can Relieve Their Mental Load—Whether You're on Baby #1 or #4
You've heard about the mental load everywhere. Now it's time to fix it (for good).
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
The Benefits of Doulas for Black Maternal Health
Doulas support and advocate for parents throughout the birth and postpartum process.
By Nina Bahadur
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
How to Read a Pregnancy Test
Got your pregnancy test? Here are our tips to make sure you get an accurate result!
By Briana Engelbrecht
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Bloody Show: Here’s What to Expect and What It Means for Labor
Although it sounds alarming, you don’t need to worry—and here’s why.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Gestational Diabetes: What Are the Symptoms, Signs and Treatment?
Everyone gets tested for gestational diabetes during pregnancy—here's how to know if you're at risk.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Implantation Symptoms, Signs, and Timeline
The most common implantation symptoms, when implantation occurs, how it feels and other early pregnancy questions answered.
By Amylia Ryan and Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What Is Implantation Bleeding?
Implantation bleeding can be an early sign of pregnancy. Here's everything to know about it.
By Jen LaBracio, CPST
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Can I Dye My Hair While Pregnant?
Hoping to add a fun new shade to your locks while pregnant? Go ahead, but take some precautions.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What You Need to Know About Cramping in Early Pregnancy
If you're experiencing cramps early in your pregnancy, here's what to know.
By Babylist Staff
Medically Reviewed by Christine Sterling M.D.
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About Acupuncture During Pregnancy
Looking for relief from pregnancy symptoms? Here's how acupuncture can help.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Group B Strep: What It Is, How It's Treated & Why Testing Keeps Baby Safe
Feeling nervous about your Group B Strep test and not sure what it’s all about? We're here to help demystify it for you.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Weird Pregnancy Symptoms No One Warns You About
From the irritating to the downright gross, these bizarre-yet-common pregnancy symptoms can catch you off guard.
By Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Everything to Know About Having a Pet While Pregnant
Got pets? Here’s how to take care of your fur babies while staying safe and healthy during your pregnancy.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
How to Advocate for Your Health as a Black Mother
The racial disparities in maternal health care are massive. This is how you can advocate for yourself.
By Nina Bahadur
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Spotting During Pregnancy: What Is and Isn’t Normal?
Spotting during your pregnancy can make you worry, but here's what to know about it.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Pregnancy Depression: Symptoms, Resources & Support
Depression can often go undiagnosed during pregnancy. Here’s how to get screened and treated.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Jan 30, 2026
Updated Jan 30, 2026
Postpartum Anxiety: Symptoms, Resources & Support
If you’re feeling more anxious than normal after having a baby, here’s how to get help.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Best Men’s Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are for men, too. But what do they do? Here’s everything you need to know.
By Briana Engelbrecht
Updated On Mar 30, 2026
Updated Mar 30, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About a Nonstress Test
This test is used to check in on baby while in utero. We give you the facts on why and how it's done.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About the Amniocentesis Test
If you decide or need to get this prenatal test during your pregnancy, here are the facts.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
9 Questions About the 'Fourth Trimester'
The 'fourth trimester' can be tough. Alexandra Sacks answers questions about the early postpartum period.
By Alexandra Sacks
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Can I Get a Tattoo While Pregnant?
Thinking about getting new ink? Here’s why you should wait until after baby is born.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
A Complete Guide to Prenatal Pilates
Pelvic floor and core strengthening? Here are all questions about pilates during pregnancy, answered.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
What Are Kegels?
A strong pelvic floor is important for keeping some postpartum symptoms at bay. Here’s how kegels help.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Prenatal Physical Therapy
Feeling pain & discomfort while pregnant? Here’s how pregnancy-specialized physical therapy can help treat it.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Can I Drink Coffee While Pregnant?
Craving that caffeine intake? If you need an extra pick-me-up during your pregnancy, we’ve got good news.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
When Do You Feel Baby Move: Baby Movement and Kick Counts
Understand what's going on with baby movement and learn how to do kick counts.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Everything to Know About Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Weak or tense pelvic floor muscles can lead to pelvic pain and incontinence. Here’s what to know about it.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
20-Week Ultrasound Explained
What will happen at your 20-week ultrasound? And what other tests are offered in the second trimester?
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Best Pregnancy Hacks for Morning Sickness
Sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? Try these tips to keep your early pregnancy morning sickness at bay.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
How To Relieve Heartburn and Acid Reflux During Pregnancy
These common pregnancy side effects may be causing you discomfort. Here's how to cope.
By Michelle Rostamian
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About Losing Your Mucus Plug
The name may sound gross, but it’s a normal part of pregnancy, and it's actually pretty exciting.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
How To Manage Stress During Pregnancy
Stress affects health at any time, but particularly during pregnancy. Here are simple tips to help manage it.
By Christine Sterling M.D.
Updated On Mar 27, 2025
Updated Mar 27, 2025
Yes, Pregnancy Hemorrhoids Are a Thing—Here’s How to Feel Better
Here's what you need to know if you have this uncomfortable yet common pregnancy symptom.
By Julia Pelly and Amylia Ryan
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care
Pregnancy can cause changes to your skin. Here's how to take care of it to keep that healthy pregnancy glow.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 10, 2026
Updated Mar 10, 2026
Everything to Know About Pregnancy Meditation
Reduce stress and connect with your baby through guided meditation for pregnancy.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
12-Week Ultrasound Explained
This ultrasound ensures everything is fine with you and baby, gives you some nice pictures, too.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Weird Pregnancy Cravings and What They Mean
Pickles and ice cream and beyond—these weird pregnancy cravings don’t just come out of thin air.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
What To Do About Back Pain During Pregnancy
Dealing with backaches as a result of your growing belly? Here’s what to do about pregnancy back pain.
By Michelle Rostamian
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Nike Is Making It Easier for Expecting Moms to Stay Active—Here’s How
Because pregnancy is pretty much the ultimate marathon.
By Babylist Team
Updated On May 22, 2025
Updated May 22, 2025
Sex During Pregnancy: Can You Have Sex While Pregnant?
Here's everything you need to know about sex during pregnancy.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About Ovulation Tests
Ovulation predictor kits can help determine when you’re most fertile & boost your chances of getting pregnant.
By Babylist Team
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Gestational Diabetes Diet and Meal Plan
Here’s what’s best to eat, what foods to limit and recipe ideas for managing gestational diabetes.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Everything to Know About Taking a Gestational Diabetes Test
Everyone who's pregnant takes a gestational diabetes test. Here's what to expect and how to prepare for it.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What Is Medical Gaslighting?
LOOM’s Erica Chidi explains the phenomenon of doctors doubting patients’ symptoms.
By Erica Chidi
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy
Learn what it is, where it’s located and how to relieve round ligament pain during your pregnancy.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
What Causes Preeclampsia?
Knowing what causes this pregnancy complication and what its risk factors are can help you avoid it.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
What to Know About High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
What is considered high blood pressure in pregnancy and what are the risks associated with it?
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What Are the Best Pregnancy Exercises?
Whether you want to stay active or get active, it’s important to know what workouts are safe for pregnancy.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Are More Expensive Prenatal Vitamins Worth It?
Here’s what you need to know to pick the best prenatal for you.
By Lisa Lombardi
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What is Cervical Effacement?
When your cervix starts to efface, labor is near. Here's what to know about effacement (and dilation too).
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Chorionic Villus Sampling Benefits and Risks
Here's what to expect during this first-trimester test, as well as why it's given and the risks.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
5 Things You Shouldn’t Stress About During Pregnancy or Delivery
Keep calm and carry on.
By Leslie Goldman
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
What to Eat When the Thought of Food Makes You Nauseous
Anything you can stomach is better than nothing. Here’s why, plus easy ways to sneak in some extra nutrients.
By Barbara Brody
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Your Top Questions About Pregnancy and Exercise, Answered
Is running okay? What about lifting weights? Here's expert advice on exercising while you're pregnant.
By Amy Marturana Winderl
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
8 Things Pregnancy Does to Your Skin—And How to Deal With Them
Notice pimples and dark spots popping up? Here's why it happens and what you can do.
By Barbara Brody
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
Is It Okay To Switch Providers Mid-Pregnancy?
The short answer: Yes. Here’s why, plus how to make the transition as smooth as possible.
By Patia Braithwaite
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
8 Key Nutrients During Pregnancy & Exactly How to Get Them
If you’re taking a prenatal vitamin, you’re off to a solid start.
By Barbara Brody
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About Amniotic Fluid
It plays a big role in baby's development. Find out what it is, what levels are normal and all about leaking.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Can I Take Ibuprofen While Pregnant?
Pregnancy aches and pains are annoying, but don’t reach for the Ibuprofen for relief.
By Babylist Staff
Medically Reviewed by Christine Sterling M.D.
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
What Is Trauma-Informed Care?
Erica Chidi explains how trauma shows up in pregnancy & childbirth—and why the right doctor can help.
By Erica Chidi
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
How to Prevent Preeclampsia
Here’s some advice on mitigating the risks of a potential pregnancy complication.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Sep 11, 2023
Updated Sep 11, 2023
Best Nausea Medication for Pregnancy
Morning sickness is one of the most well-known pregnancy symptoms, but how do you find relief from it?
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Can I Take Antidepressants While Pregnant?
Taking care of your mental health is important. Here’s how to continue your treatment during pregnancy.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Feb 26, 2026
Updated Feb 26, 2026
Can I Take Melatonin While Pregnant?
Having trouble sleeping? While a melatonin supplement might be tempting, there are other options to consider.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
How to Find a Size-Inclusive Healthcare Team
It’s important to feel supported by your providers. This is what you should look for.
By Laura Adom
Updated On Oct 2, 2025
Updated Oct 2, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About Diastasis Recti
How is abdominal separation treated? Get the 411 on this common yet under-discussed postpartum condition.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Mar 25, 2026
Updated Mar 25, 2026
Prenatal Chiropractic
Curious about seeing a pregnancy chiropractor? Here’s the 411 on getting your back adjusted while pregnant.
By Amylia Ryan
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
Everything to Know About Prenatal Yoga
Here's everything to know about how prenatal yoga can help you stay strong and flexible.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Jan 7, 2026
Updated Jan 7, 2026
What to Expect When You’re Pregnant During Covid-19
Everything from prenatal care to delivery is being impacted–here’s what you can expect and how to cope.
By Babylist Staff
Updated On Mar 26, 2025
Updated Mar 26, 2025

Pregnancy Health

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Amylia Ryan

By Amylia Ryan and Jen LaBracio, CPST

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Alyssa DweckFact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

By Briana Engelbrecht and Karen Reardanz

Fact Checked by Karen Reardanz

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Amylia Ryan

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Medically Reviewed by Malavika PrabhuFact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Medically Reviewed by Christine Sterling M.D.Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

By Amylia Ryan and Babylist Staff

Medically Reviewed by Christine Sterling M.D.

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

By Alexandra Sacks

By Julia Pelly and Amylia Ryan

Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

By Babylist Team

By Babylist Team

By Lisa Lombardi

By Leslie Goldman

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Alyssa Dweck
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Medically Reviewed by Malavika Prabhu
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson

Medically Reviewed by Christine Sterling M.D.
Fact Checked by Shannon Vestal Robson