Over to you
Rising up to about halfway between your navel and pubic bone, your uterus has probably now grown to about four to five centimetres below your tummy button. But everyone's bump is different - you may be already quite big, or hardly showing at all. What’s considered ‘normal’ is actually a very broad description.
You may also notice some strange changes to your skin during this time. Many white skinned women notice dark spots on their forehead, nose and cheeks, while black skinned women sometimes develop patches of white skin on their face and neck. This is known as chloasma, or somewhat spookily as the ‘mask of pregnancy’.
Thought to be caused when pigment-producing cells are stimulated by estrogen and progesterone hormones, sun exposure makes the condition more pronounced so be sure to slap on plenty of sun cream. The patches fade gradually within three months of delivery.
In the know
Financial advice
There's no doubt about it, parenthood takes being an adult to a new level. You and your partner will have enough to manage as a couple once your baby arrives, without having the financial worry of how you're going to provide for this new, totally dependent little being. Here are some ways you can improve your financial security before your baby arrives:
Cut costs. Compare supermarkets on basic items to find the one that is genuinely less expensive. Consider joining discount loyalty clubs. Buy foods, pet supplies and paper goods in bulk – especially nappies!
Set up an emergency fund. Most financial advisors suggest keeping three to six months' worth of income in an emergency fund to help you in case of financial setbacks.
Expecting a new addition to your family is an ideal time to honestly review your credit and debt arrangements, so you can switch to a lower interest rate or a consolidation loan.
Child Tax Credit is a means-tested allowance for parents and carers of children. Nine out of ten families with children can get tax credits. To find out whether you're eligible, visit: www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/TaxCreditsandChildBenefit/TaxCredits/DG_073802
Child Benefit is a regular payment made to anyone bringing up children. It is paid for each child that qualifies and isn't affected by income or savings. Find out more at: www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/TaxCreditsandChildBenefit/Childbenefits/DG_073771
An Independent Financial Advisor can offer you sound advice for making important financial decisions such as mortgages, pensions and life assurance. A financial advisor or accountant may also help you with practical matters, such as accessing all the tax benefits that your new dependent brings, or how to plan for tax-free savings.
Make a will. This will allow you to name the person who will benefit from your property if you die. You'll also want to discuss how to appoint a guardian who will take over the care your baby should both of you die.
