Pregnancy questions and answers
Getting pregnant
When am I most fertile?
In the 5 days before ovulation and on the day itself. Ovulation usually happens about 14 days before your next period, not always on day 14. Learn more
How soon can I take a pregnancy test?
Most home tests work from the first day of a missed period. Testing earlier can give a false negative.
Should I take folic acid before pregnancy?
Yes. 400 micrograms a day from before conception until 12 weeks helps prevent neural tube defects. Some women need a higher dose, so ask your doctor. Learn more
Due date
How is my due date calculated?
Usually 280 days (40 weeks) from the first day of your last period, adjusted for cycle length. An early dating scan may change it. Learn more
How many babies are born on their due date?
Only a small share, around 1 in 20. Most babies arrive between 37 and 42 weeks. Learn more
How do I calculate my due date after IVF?
Add 261 days to a day-5 embryo transfer date, or 263 days to a day-3 transfer. Learn more
First trimester
When does morning sickness stop?
For most women it eases by 14 to 16 weeks. Get help if you can't keep fluids down for 24 hours. Learn more
Is spotting normal in early pregnancy?
It can be, but always tell your doctor or midwife the same day. Learn more
Food
Can I eat papaya when pregnant?
Fully ripe papaya is generally fine in normal amounts. Avoid unripe or semi-ripe papaya. Learn more
How much tea or coffee can I drink?
Keep total caffeine under 200 mg a day. That is about two mugs of tea or one mug of filter coffee. Learn more
Can I eat dates while pregnant?
Yes. They give fibre, iron and quick energy. Watch portions if you have gestational diabetes. Learn more
Health
How much weight should I gain?
It depends on your BMI before pregnancy: from 11.5 to 16 kg for a healthy weight, less if your BMI was higher. Learn more
Who is at higher risk of gestational diabetes?
Women with a BMI over 30, a family history of diabetes, previous gestational diabetes, or South Asian, Middle Eastern or Black African family origin. Learn more
Can I fast in Ramadan while pregnant?
Pregnant women are generally exempt if fasting may cause harm. Talk to your doctor before deciding. Learn more
Baby's movements
When will I feel my baby move?
Usually between 16 and 24 weeks. First-time mums often notice later. Learn more
What if my baby is moving less?
Call your maternity unit straight away, day or night. Don't wait until the next day and don't use a home heartbeat monitor. Learn more
Labour
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
Contractions about 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour. Your hospital may give different advice. Learn more
When should I pack my hospital bag?
By 36 weeks, or earlier if you're expecting twins or have been told you may deliver early. Learn more
What if my waters break?
Call your maternity unit, even if you have no contractions. Note the time and the colour of the fluid. Learn more
Partners
What can a husband do during pregnancy?
Go to scans, take on chores, learn the warning signs, and be ready when labour starts. Learn more
Using Nine Moons
Is Nine Moons free?
Yes. All tools and articles are free. The site is supported by advertising.
Where is my data stored?
Without an account, your dates and logs stay in this browser on this device and we don't receive them. If you choose to sign in, they are saved securely to your account so you can use them on any device. Learn more
Is Nine Moons medical advice?
No. It gives general information based on WHO, NHS, NICE and ACOG guidance. Always follow your own doctor or midwife. Learn more
Who reviews the articles?
Articles are written from WHO, NHS, NICE and ACOG guidance and list their sources. Our medical review policy explains how clinicians check them. Learn more