19 Weeks Pregnant

You may not have snored in the past, but now that you're pregnant, those nighttime sounds may have kicked up and could be getting in the way of a good night's sleep.

Usually, snoring during pregnancy is more annoying than serious (it's typically because of an uptick in nasal congestion, which can start around week 16), but occasionally, it can be caused by a chronic condition called obstructive sleep apnea. Ask your health care provider about it, and get tips on what to do for relief.

If you work at a computer all day, now’s a good time to start taking some hand-stretching breaks. Carpal tunnel synrome — an uncomfortable burning or numbness in the wrists, hands and fingers — can set in as early as the first trimester. 

You may also want to consider buying an ergonomic keyboard, which can help reduce the strain on your wrists, or invest in a wrist brace. 

With so much going on down there already, the last thing you need is an itchy yeast infection when you're pregnant. Unfortunately, you're especially likely to get them during pregnancy, thanks in part to higher estrogen levels that cause an overgrowth of yeast.

Yeast infections can be harder to control when you’re expecting (though not impossible!). Talk to your doctor about the best treatment.

What should you do when pregnancy cravings strike? That depends. Try to limit them if they're sending you to a box of glazed donuts or a bag of potato chips every time they come on (though it’s just fine to indulge here and there). 

For a healthier alternative, try eating cereal topped with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey, or dive into a bag of soy crisps, some of which are packed with protein. Vary things a bit if you can, but don't worry if your taste buds won't take the bait.

If your cravings are for foods to steer clear of when you’re expecting — like unpasteurized soft cheese or sashimi — sub something that comes as close as possible to the object of your affections, like pasteurized feta and teriyaki salmon.

If you find yourself wanting to eat substances that aren't food, like clay, ashes or laundry starch, contact your practitioner. Such cravings could indicate a condition called pica, which is triggered by a nutritional deficiency.

Prenatal yoga is the perfect pregnancy exercise.

Not only can a yoga routine help you feel more relaxed and prepared for birth, but a once-a-week prenatal yoga session, when done for at least two months, is enough to reduce the risk of anxiety and depression. That, in turn, can lower the risk of premature birth and postpartum blues.

Just be sure you’re taking a class specifically designed for pregnant women or working with an instructor who’s certified to teach prenatal yoga.

Relax — it's perfectly safe to get a manicure or a pedicure during pregnancy. Take advantage now before baby’s arrival makes it trickier. A bonus? Pregnancy hormones can make your nails grow faster and stronger.

As for acrylics, there's no proof that the chemicals are harmful to you or your fetus, but to be absolutely safe, you might want to forgo those tips until your baby arrives.

Non-toxic and water-based ingredients in polish might also be a good idea, as is a well-ventilated salon (this is true whether you're pregnant or not).

If your hormones didn't get the memo and you find that your nails have become weak or brittle, try a clear nail hardener and reapply often (plus make sure you're getting enough calcium).

Eight to 10 full glasses of fluids — water, vegetable or fruit juice, broth — each day will help keep solids moving through your digestive tract at an impressive rate and keep your stool soft and easier to pass.

Prune juice is tops in the category since it's a mild laxative. Try to drink some when you're really clogged, and if you have trouble taking it straight, blend it with other fruits and juices into a smoothie.

Just don’t go overboard and talk to your doctor or midwife if you need some guidance.

Another time-honored way to get things moving: Turn to warm liquids including that health-spa staple, hot water and lemon. They can help stimulate peristalsis, those intestinal contractions that help you go.