Barbara Curtis's Blog, page 19
September 26, 2022
How do you get an eyelash out of a baby’s eye?
When an ingrown eyelash grows into the skin around the eye, it can cause irritation. It’s possible that this would cause discomfort, irritation, tearing, and even damage to the cornea. Injuries, inflammations, and certain eye disorders can all lead to trichiasis.
How do you flush something out of your eye?An eyecup, or a clean, little glass, can be used to rest the outside edge of the eye on as you sleep. Another option is to take a shower and hold your eyelid open while directing a gentle spray of lukewarm water over the affected eye from the top of your head.
What happens if a fake eyelash gets in your eye?Always be aware of the potential of corneal damage while bringing small objects close to the eye. If the glue solidifies and slips into the eye, scraping the cornea, or if the false eyelashes irritate the cornea, this can be a significant problem.
What happens if you don’t get an eyelash out of your eye?The eyelid or eye can be scratched if the eyelash isn’t removed. An inflamed eye is more likely to absorb bacteria from your hands. Even if you manage to get the eyelash off, you risk scratching your eyelid or cornea if you try to remove it with something sharp.
Where do things that get in your eye go?Don’t Panic—You Can Always Cry. Use it to flush out any dirt, dust, or other debris from your eyes. In addition to helping prevent dry eye, tears help clean the eye. Once the lacrimal duct is reached, the fluid can drain away from the eye (this is also called the tear duct).
How much does it cost to get something removed from your eye?How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Foreign Object from the Eye? The average price for removing a foreign object from the eye on MDsave is $145. When patients with high deductible health plans or those without insurance pay in advance for their surgery through MDsave, they receive a discount.
Is it OK to sleep with something in your eye?In most cases, a scratched cornea is nothing more than an annoyance and will clear up on its own. Because of the abundance of nerve endings in the cornea, even a minor scratch can cause excruciating agony. It is recommended that you avoid sleeping on the side of your injured eye to reduce the amount of pain experienced while you are asleep.
Why do I feel something in my eye but there’s nothing?A person may feel an eyelash, a bit of dust, or a particle of sand in their eye. Foreign body feeling, on the other hand, can induce irritation in the eye even when nothing foreign is present. It can seem like something is in the eye if your eyes are dry or if your eyelids are inflamed.
Can eyelash glue make you blind?Check the glue’s ingredients for anything that can trigger an allergic response, like the common component formaldehyde. Is it possible for you to lose your eyesight? If you close your eyes during the eyelash extension process, there is no risk of blindness.
What do you do if you can’t get something out of your eye?To clear the eye, flush the water. It may be necessary to flush your eye out with water if you are unable to remove the object with your fingers or your tears. Pour lukewarm water from a clean glass into your open eye (you may need some help with this).
22 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
22 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 22 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 22 of pregnancyYour baby’s brain is developing on a daily basis. Her senses are also beginning to mature. She can hear your heartbeat as well as your breaths. She may stroke her cheek or suck her thumb as she wiggles her fingers. Her lungs are maturing, and she is even going through the motions of breathing. She can also swallow, however her first genuine meal will not be until delivery day.
22 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 22 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 6 months of your pregnancy, just another 4 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 22 weeks pregnant?At 22 weeks your baby, also known as a foetus, is currently about 430g (15.1 oz) in weight and around 27.8cm (10.9 in) in length from head to bottom That’s approximately the size of a papaya and the weight of 5 tangerines. They are growing quickly and are about to have a growth spurt. They will roughly almost double in size over the next month.
22 weeks pregnant baby positionDuring weeks 21 to 24, your baby is still small enough to change positions a lot – head down, feet down, or even sideways. Your baby sleeps long hours every day, about 12 to 14 hours, although it might not seem like it to you.
22 weeks pregnant: baby’s development 21-27 weeks baby developmentsThe premature infant at 22 weeks after conception sneezes when a doctor tickles his nostrils. As early as 23 weeks after conception, the fetus exhibits a blink-startle response to sudden sounds. Some experts have dubbed this a “squint-startle” response because the fetus’ eyes are still mostly closed. As shown in children and adults, this response continues to develop until 30 weeks after conception. Interestingly, girls are more likely than boys to master the startle reaction first.
Breathing is the most challenging aspect of life outside the womb. The lungs of an unborn child begin producing a chemical called surfactant about the 20th or 22nd week after conception. When a newborn exhales, the surfactant prevents the two ends of the airway from sticking together.
The developing fetus produces enough surfactant to ensure its own survival by the time it is 24 to 26 weeks old. In order to keep the alveoli open and increase the likelihood of survival in infants, doctors have created a synthetic surfactant. This has led to a dramatic increase in the age at which children can be saved. The use of steroids prior to delivery has also been shown to hasten lung development and the production of surfactant, both of which improve the baby’s chances of survival.
44 Breaths Per MinuteIn another study, researchers found that while carbon dioxide levels in the mother’s blood were greater, the fetus’ breathing rate also increased, much as adult breathing rates would increase when exposed to high amounts of carbon dioxide. This demonstrates that the fetal processes required for a rise in breathing rate in response to changes in blood gas levels are already in place.
Eye developmentThere is a significant increase in the number of rods and cones, the light-sensitive receptors in the eyes, by week 25 of development. Small amounts of light, as well as light in the periphery, can be detected by the eyes thanks to rods. Cones, on the other hand, are responsible for acute, vivid vision and primarily detect light in the visual center. Each of an adult’s eyes contains 100 million rods and 7 million cones.
During pregnancy and the first year following birth, cones migrate into the fovea while rods leave it.
A fetus in the womb will respond to light at 26 weeks following conception, the same as a premature baby born at 24 weeks. Pupils change size after birth to let the right quantity of light into the eye. This development in pupil size is initially recognized in the fetus at 27 weeks after conception, and it is regularly present in preterm infants at 31 weeks following conception.
Your body at 22 weeks pregnantAs your baby grows, you’ll begin to feel fetal movement at various times throughout the day. There must be room in your body for her to develop. Reduced stomach capacity can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn and indigestion, particularly when lying down for the night.
In addition, pregnant hormones might impede digestion, exacerbating your stomach issues. You can find that your shoes become too tight after a little bit of swelling. As your baby bulge grows, it may put extra strain on your spine. There’s a lot of pressure on the bathroom facilities, and your bladder feels it too.
Intimacy and Pregnancy
If you are one of the lucky ladies who gets larger breasts, radiant skin, and a tiny baby bulge along with pregnancy, you may feel more beautiful than ever. If, on the other hand, you’ve spent most of your pregnancy fighting off sickness and exhaustion, you could have noticed a decline in your libido.
The physical changes you experience will have an effect on your sexual desire and desire in your partner regardless of the specifics of your situation.
Why you may feel more attractive
Changes in your appearance
One of the first signs of pregnancy is an increased cup size. If you normally have smaller breasts, your new fuller breasts may make you feel more desirable. Couple that with an increased blood flow, which leaves you with rosier cheeks, and you might be downright irresistible.
Fluctuations in hormone levels
Having a larger cup size is a common early indicator of pregnancy. If your breast size was previously on the lesser side, you may find that your newfound fullness boosts your self-esteem. With your blood pumping more freely and giving you a healthy flush, you might even be appealing.
Free of pressure to conceive:
Perhaps you’ve been trying for months to get pregnant. Now that the pressure is off, intimacy may become more enjoyable and less of a task.
Why you may not feel interested
Tenderness
Your breasts and abdomen are going through quite a growth spurt, which may leave you sore. Intimacy may be uncomfortable, especially during your first and last trimesters.
Fatigue and nausea
If you’ve suffered strong bouts of nausea, intimacy may be the last thing on your mind. Fatigue may further zap any other desires.
Weight gain
As you’ve watched the scale tip upwards, you may feel frumpy.
Why intimacy is important
Intimacy allows you and your partner to express your love and concern for each other. It’s a physical closeness that can reinforce your emotional connection to your partner. A gentle massage, cuddling, and kissing, can help erase some of the day-to-day pains of pregnancy and let you know your partner is there for you.
Worrying about the Baby
“Unless you have a specific medical issues like multiple births, placenta previa, or another high-risk condition, sexual intercourse won’t hurt your baby,” explains Dr. William Camann, MD, director of obstetric anesthesia at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, and coauthor of Easy Labor.
He notes, however, that you may notice some contractions after lovemaking—that’s normal. Unless your cervix is already starting to dilate, there’s little reason to worry that these contractions will lead to labor.
If you have any unexplained bleeding after intimacy, or sex is extremely uncomfortable, talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns.
22 weeks pregnant tips and adviceDrink plenty of waterStaying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.
Use the bathroom—oftenDrinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.
Bring light snacksFood may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.
Wear comfortable clothesYou’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.
Watch your postureTake time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.
Having Trouble Sleeping at 22 weeks PregnantHaving difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
When you’re 22 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.
22 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and NutritionWhat should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:
Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your bellyIntense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.Saunas and hot tubsChemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and permsWeek 22 unsightly pregnancy symptomsYour body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.
Weight gainYou should expect to gain 25 to 35 pounds during your pregnancy. As distressing as weight gain can be for some women, those pounds are necessary for your growing baby. Much of the weight is extra fluids (such as blood), tissues (like your breasts), and of course, your baby. If you eat a sensible pregnancy diet and stay fit, you should be able to lose much of your pregnancy weight after your baby’s birth. (Some women are able to shed pounds in a matter of weeks; others need as much as a year to get their bodies back in shape).
Breast changes and tendernessTenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 22nd week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.
Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.
Heartburn or gasThere may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 22nd week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.
Mood swings and crying spellsThe 22nd week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.
Pregnant stretch marksIn the 22nd week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)
Indigestion, or constipationDuring the 22nd week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).
Swelling (edema)Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.
Bleeding gumsYour blood volume has increased dramatically to provide nutrients to your baby-to-be. This increase, along with swelling caused by pregnancy hormones, might make your gums bleed.
Skin spotsThe skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.
No symptoms at 22 weeks pregnantYes, it is possible to be 22 weeks pregnant with no obvious signs of pregnancy at all! It’s important to remember that every pregnant lady is unique. If you’re one of the happy few who never gets morning sickness, for instance, you may relax and enjoy your pregnancy. But if you do have symptoms, you should definitely pay heed to them. If you are pregnant and have any health concerns, you should always consult your doctor.
22 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)Your pregnancy bump grows larger at 22 weeks.
Braxton Hicks contractions are also becoming more noticeable for some mothers.
This is your uterus contracting and relaxing. You’ve been having contractions since you were about 7 weeks pregnant. They are not painful and should not cause you concern.
Braxton Hicks will become more frequent and intense from now until the baby is born. If the Braxton Hicks contractions become uncomfortable, consult your doctor immediately.
You may have an irritated uterus, which implies you should take things slowly.
Braxton Hicks at 22 weeks PregnantAt 22 weeks pregnant, you may find that your Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming more frequent and intense. You may feel them in your back or lower abdomen, and they may last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. If you’re having regular contractions, it’s important to talk with your doctor about any pain or discomfort you experience during them.
Braxton Hicks are common during the third trimester. You may not even notice them because they feel like mild discomfort or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. They’re also called practice contractions because they prepare your body for real labor by getting it ready to push out a baby when the time comes.
22 weeks pregnant ultrasoundTypically performed between weeks 18 and 22, the 20-week ultrasound is also known as an anatomy or anomaly scan. It can discover certain congenital problems by monitoring your baby’s organ and limb development. Discovering your child’s gender is usually possible.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
22 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 22 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 4,060 – 165,400 mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
Is It Safe To Use Listerine or Mouthwash During Pregnancy
As long as you don’t swallow it, using Listerine or mouthwash while pregnant is considered safe.
What is the best mouthwash to use while pregnant?For optimal oral health before, during, and after pregnancy, discuss its use with your dentist. Use a mouthwash that fights gingivitis. When used as directed, Crest® PRO-HEALTH® Multi-Protection Mouthwash is 99.9 percent effective against the germs that cause gingivitis. Use dental floss at least once daily.
Is it safe to use Listerine?You should not use any commercial mouthwashes such as Scope, Listerine, or any others. They have an acidic pH, may include carcinogens, and are generally unhealthy. The mouth can be soothed and the pH level balanced with a simple homemade rinse or one from CariFree.
What cleaners should I avoid while pregnant?Pregnant women should avoid cleaning products including bleach, oven cleansers, and others. Avoid or reduce exposure to these substances as much as possible, and always wear protective gear whenever working with them. In the time leading up to the birth of your child, you may wish to have someone else take over any cleaning duties that include the use of potentially dangerous chemicals.
What are the side effects of Listerine?Adverse Reactions to Listerine. Gum disease (swelling, redness, bleeding), toothache (continuous discomfort), and tooth loss (signs that you may need additional dental care).
What toothpaste is safe for pregnancy?Fluoride and alcohol are the most frequently mentioned causes for alarm. The American Dental Association has concluded that fluoride can be used safely and effectively by anybody, including pregnant women, to reduce the risk of dental caries. They suggest using fluoride toothpaste and consuming water that has been treated with fluoride.
Can I clean while pregnant?While the vast majority of common household cleaners pose no threat to your unborn child, prolonged or excessive exposure to a small number of them may increase their chance of developing health issues. All-purpose cleaners, window cleaners, dishwasher detergents, and laundry detergents are generally safe to use during pregnancy.
Can you rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide while pregnant?If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication. Do not use Hydrogen Peroxide Solution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
Can Sensodyne be used in pregnancy?It is very safe to consume throughout pregnancy. A quantity about the size of a pea is recommended. Make sure that the paste stays in touch with the surface of your teeth for a few minutes before you brush so that the brushing can have its full effect.
Can I drink water after mouthwash?Instead of using water to rinse your mouth, try using a fluoride-containing mouthwash or mouth rinse. It is sufficient to gargle, rinse your mouth with mouthwash, and then spit the mouthwash out. However, do not use any water. After cleaning your teeth, you should wait at least a half an hour before drinking water or any other beverages.
Why does Listerine burn so much?There are several mouth rinses that have high concentrations of alcohol, with amounts ranging from 18 to 26 percent. It’s possible that your cheeks, teeth, and gums will start to burn as a result of this. The constant use of mouthwash can also cause irritation to the soft tissues of the mouth, which can result in mouth sores and a burning sensation.
Can I swallow my saliva after mouthwash?As long as you have spat out the majority of the product after using mouthwash, it is normally safe to swallow saliva after you have used the product. You should also consider rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water soon after using mouthwash, particularly if the mouthwash is a really strong one.
How can I clean my private part during pregnancy?Do use a plain unperfumed intimate wash for the vulva or the outer part of the vaginal region.Don’t use a vaginal douche(where water is flushed up the vagina), this can flush out the good bacteria and might actually raise the risk of an infection.Does bending affect the baby when pregnant?Miscarriage, premature birth, and other pregnancy-related injuries may be more likely if you move heavy objects, stand for lengthy periods of time, or bend frequently.
Can you do housework when pregnant?Unfortunately for some, pregnancy is not an acceptable reason to avoid doing one’s share of the housework. A large majority are risk-free.
However, it may be more efficient to rely on your partner — or to employ temporary help — for a certain number of activities.
19 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
19 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 19 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 19 of pregnancyYou are currently in the 19th week of pregnancy, a time of significant development for your baby’s organs. His skin is protected from the amniotic fluid by a layer of lanugo, which consists of soft hairs and a sticky protective coating. By now, you should have felt your baby’s frequent movements. Your doctor can listen to the heartbeat of your unborn child by placing a stethoscope against your stomach.
Vernix, a white, cheesy “cream,” coats the baby and shields her skin from the amniotic fluid bath. Extremely premature infants, known as “posties,” have almost no vernix upon birth, whereas full-term infants are completely covered.
19 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 19 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 5 months of your pregnancy, just another 4 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 19 weeks pregnant?At 19 weeks your baby, also known as a foetus, is currently about 240g (8.5 oz) in weight and around 15.3 cm in length from head to bottom which is about the size of a mango or heirloom tomato. They are growing quickly and are about to have a growth spurt. They will roughly almost double in size over the next month.
19 weeks pregnant baby positionIt’s impossible for the baby to stay still because he’s floating in so much space. The baby’s head will typically be up towards your chest, while the feet will extend down to the bottom of the uterus.
Until later in pregnancy, babies rarely sit motionless in one place.
19 weeks pregnant: baby’s developmentThe fetus becomes ready for life outside the womb between the start and end of the fifth month. There have been live births of infants as early as 19 weeks following conception (21 weeks gestation). Infants born at 20 and 21 weeks after conception are now receiving resuscitation and active treatment in many American hospitals (22 and 23 weeks gestation).
The fetus begins to move and breathe on a daily cycle in the fifth month, known as a circadian rhythm. It’s interesting to note that fetal activity, particularly breathing movements, peaks for about two hours following a mother’s meal before beginning to decline. The fetal heart rate also exhibits a daily trend.
Researchers discovered that fetuses sleep in cycles of about 45 minutes, or half as long as an adult sleep cycle, by studying continuous ultrasounds of fetuses between 18 and 38 weeks after conception.
At 19 weeks following conception, the amount of future eggs in the ovary peaks at about 7 million in females. Around 5 million of these cells die before giving birth once the ovary essentially stops producing oogonia. Several thousand primary oocytes, or egg cells, are produced by the remaining oogonia.
Your body at 19 weeks pregnantEvery day, your tummy appears to be getting bigger. It’s possible that getting more rest is what you need to stay energized. With the additional weight, your back and abdomen could hurt. Expect some annoying pregnancy symptoms to become better while others worsen; your nausea has likely subsided and been replaced by heartburn and indigestion. Continue to budget time for frequent potty breaks.
Pregnancy Weight Gain and Other SymptomsEvery day, your body undergoes internal and external changes to make room for your unborn child. You may experience an increase in itching in the breasts and belly area as your skin stretches. As your body adapts to carrying a baby, you may notice that your back starts to hurt. Constriction of the digestive tract can cause discomfort in the form of heartburn, indigestion, and flatulence. Hormones during pregnancy might continue to mess with your emotions, which can lead to erratic mood swings.
19 weeks pregnant tips and adviceDrink plenty of waterStaying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.
Use the bathroom—oftenDrinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.
Bring light snacksFood may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.
Wear comfortable clothesYou’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.
Watch your postureTake time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.
Having Trouble Sleeping at 19 weeks PregnantHaving difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
When you’re 19 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.
19 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and NutritionWhat should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:
Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your bellyIntense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.Saunas and hot tubsChemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and permsWeek 19 Unsightly Pregnancy Signs and symptomsYour body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.
Weight gainYou should expect to gain 25 to 35 pounds during your pregnancy. As distressing as weight gain can be for some women, those pounds are necessary for your growing baby. Much of the weight is extra fluids (such as blood), tissues (like your breasts), and of course, your baby. If you eat a sensible pregnancy diet and stay fit, you should be able to lose much of your pregnancy weight after your baby’s birth. (Some women are able to shed pounds in a matter of weeks; others need as much as a year to get their bodies back in shape).
Breast changes and tendernessTenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 19th week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.
Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.
Heartburn or gasThere may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 19th week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.
Mood swings and crying spellsThe 19th week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.
Food cravings, aversions, or bothDuring your 19th week of pregnancy, It’s common to crave foods that are high in protein, such as meat and cheese, which are essential for your baby’s development. You may also have strong aversions to certain foods, like vegetables or fruits that you normally enjoy eating but now find repulsive. This is normal—just make sure you don’t completely eliminate any food groups from your diet.
Pregnant stretch marksIn the 19th week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)
Indigestion, or constipationDuring the 19th week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).
Swelling (edema)Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.
Bleeding gumsYour blood volume has increased dramatically to provide nutrients to your baby-to-be. This increase, along with swelling caused by pregnancy hormones, might make your gums bleed.
Skin spotsThe skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.
No symptoms at 19 weeks pregnantYes, it is possible to be 19 weeks pregnant with no obvious signs of pregnancy at all! It’s important to remember that every pregnant lady is unique. If you’re one of the happy few who never gets morning sickness, for instance, you may relax and enjoy your pregnancy. But if you do have symptoms, you should definitely pay heed to them. If you are pregnant and have any health concerns, you should always consult your doctor.
19 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)When you’re 19 weeks pregnant, you’ll probably notice that you look more pregnant than you did before. Your 19 weeks pregnant belly size will be largely determined by how many pregnancies you’ve had.It may take a while for you to develop a proper baby bump if this is your first pregnancy. In contrast, if you have had previous pregnancies, your muscles are more lax and you’ll show more of a 19 weeks pregnant bump.Around this time, you may also notice a dark line running from your belly button to your pelvis. It’s known as “linea nigra”, and it’s completely normal among pregnant women. After delivery, it will fade, so don’t worry!You will gain more weight than you did in the first trimester because your baby will need nutrients to grow and develop. To gain 1 pound per week, doctors recommend eating approximately 300 extra calories per day. During week 19 of pregnancy, you should be able to feel the uterus halfway between your pubic bone and your belly button.19 weeks pregnant ultrasoundThe 19 week ultrasound is the most significant one. A thorough examination of every fetus is best done now. When it reaches this size, it is sufficiently developed to make extensive use of its structures and sufficiently large to warrant close inspection. Extra context about its history is provided here.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
19 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 19 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 4,060 – 165,400 mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
23 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
23 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 23 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 23 of pregnancyEven if your bowel movements aren’t regular, your baby may be developing a rhythm, such as being more active at night and quieter during the day. Though her internal systems could use some further development time, they are all in place and functioning.
Her vestibular system, the region of the brain that registers movement, is one of the earliest to develop, and it is already acutely aware of your every motion. Additionally, Baby’s hearing is getting better and better. Scientific research has shown that babies who are exposed to loud noises in the womb (such as dog barks or the dryer beeping) are less likely to be startled by them after birth.
To put it simply, if Baby were born this week, she would have a fighting chance. The March of Dimes estimates that just 25% to 35% of kids born at 23 weeks make it to their first birthday. With just an extra week or two, that percentage rises dramatically: between 50 and 70 percent of infants born at 24 to 25 weeks make it. And of those babies born between 26 and 27 weeks, 90% make it.
23 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 23 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 6 months of your pregnancy, just another 4 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 23 weeks pregnant?At 23 weeks your baby, also known as a foetus, is currently about 450g (15.8 oz) in weight and around 28 cm (11 in) in length from head to bottom. That’s approximately the size of a grapefruit or squash. They are growing quickly and are about to have a growth spurt. They will roughly almost double in size over the next month.
23 weeks pregnant baby positionDuring weeks 21 to 24, your baby is still small enough to change positions a lot – head down, feet down, or even sideways. Your baby sleeps long hours every day, about 12 to 14 hours, although it might not seem like it to you.
23 weeks pregnant: baby’s development 21-27 weeks baby developmentsAs early as 23 weeks after conception, the fetus exhibits a blink-startle response to sudden sounds. Some experts have dubbed this a “squint-startle” response because the fetus’ eyes are still mostly closed. As shown in children and adults, this response continues to develop until 30 weeks after conception. Interestingly, girls are more likely than boys to master the startle reaction first.
Breathing is the most challenging aspect of life outside the womb. The lungs of an unborn child begin producing a chemical called surfactant about the 20th or 22nd week after conception. When a newborn exhales, the surfactant prevents the two ends of the airway from sticking together.
The developing fetus produces enough surfactant to ensure its own survival by the time it is 24 to 26 weeks old. In order to keep the alveoli open and increase the likelihood of survival in infants, doctors have created a synthetic surfactant. This has led to a dramatic increase in the age at which children can be saved. The use of steroids prior to delivery has also been shown to hasten lung development and the production of surfactant, both of which improve the baby’s chances of survival.
44 Breaths Per MinuteIn another study, researchers found that while carbon dioxide levels in the mother’s blood were greater, the fetus’ breathing rate also increased, much as adult breathing rates would increase when exposed to high amounts of carbon dioxide. This demonstrates that the fetal processes required for a rise in breathing rate in response to changes in blood gas levels are already in place.
Eye developmentThere is a significant increase in the number of rods and cones, the light-sensitive receptors in the eyes, by week 25 of development. Small amounts of light, as well as light in the periphery, can be detected by the eyes thanks to rods. Cones, on the other hand, are responsible for acute, vivid vision and primarily detect light in the visual center. Each of an adult’s eyes contains 100 million rods and 7 million cones.
During pregnancy and the first year following birth, cones migrate into the fovea while rods leave it.
A fetus in the womb will respond to light at 26 weeks following conception, the same as a premature baby born at 24 weeks. Pupils change size after birth to let the right quantity of light into the eye. This development in pupil size is initially recognized in the fetus at 27 weeks after conception, and it is regularly present in preterm infants at 31 weeks following conception.
Your body at 23 weeks pregnantThere isn’t a baby in there; rather, it’s an amateur boxer giving you a good pounding. Now that she has your relatives and friends’ attention, she is much more likely to resort to punches, jabs, and kicks (and your internal organs and rib cage are taking a beating). This tiny person is making full use of the available space since there is plenty of room to roam.
To assess the likelihood of premature labor, a cervix internal exam may be scheduled for sometime soon. However, we recognize that this is easier said than done. Emotions tend to intensify and swing wildly throughout pregnancy, with worries turning into crippling anxiety and joys becoming uncontrollable elation. You’re up at 4:30 a.m. because the emotional ups and downs of the day, along with the pain in your ribs, have made it difficult for you to go asleep.
Headed for Bed Rest?Did I just hear a contraction? Seven percent of pregnant women go into labor prematurely, usually in the third trimester but occasionally in the second. Preterm labor is defined as the onset of contractions leading to cervix opening before 37 weeks gestation.
Early labor can be managed by increasing fluid intake and getting to bed earlier. However, if your contractions get too intense, or if there are any other issues, you may be required to take a bed rest. The pressure on your cervix will decrease if you relax and prop your feet up. Being horizontal also improves circulation, making it less work for the heart to pump blood around the body.
Drugs are available to help when bed rest isn’t enough to stop the onset of labor too soon. You may be hospitalized for round-the-clock monitoring if medication fails to alleviate your symptoms.
It may sound appealing to stay in bed all day, but the reality is that doing nothing but eating candy, watching television, and checking email may grow boring really quickly. You should keep this bed rest survival guide close by if you ever find yourself confined to bed.
23 weeks pregnant tips and adviceDrink plenty of waterStaying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.
Use the bathroom—oftenDrinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.
Bring light snacksFood may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.
Wear comfortable clothesYou’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.
Watch your postureTake time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.
Having Trouble Sleeping at 23 weeks PregnantHaving difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
When you’re 23 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.
23 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and NutritionWhat should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:
Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your bellyIntense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.Saunas and hot tubsChemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and permsweek 23 unsightly pregnancy symptomsYour body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.
Weight gainYou should expect to gain 25 to 35 pounds during your pregnancy. As distressing as weight gain can be for some women, those pounds are necessary for your growing baby. Much of the weight is extra fluids (such as blood), tissues (like your breasts), and of course, your baby. If you eat a sensible pregnancy diet and stay fit, you should be able to lose much of your pregnancy weight after your baby’s birth. (Some women are able to shed pounds in a matter of weeks; others need as much as a year to get their bodies back in shape).
Breast changes and tendernessTenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 23rd week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.
Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.
Heartburn or gasThere may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 23rd week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.
Mood swings and crying spellsThe 23rd week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.
Pregnant stretch marksIn the 23rd week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)
Indigestion, or constipationDuring the 23rd week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).
Swelling (edema)Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.
Bleeding gumsYour blood volume has increased dramatically to provide nutrients to your baby-to-be. This increase, along with swelling caused by pregnancy hormones, might make your gums bleed.
Skin spotsThe skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.
No symptoms at 23 weeks pregnantYes, it is possible to be 23 weeks pregnant with no obvious signs of pregnancy at all! It’s important to remember that every pregnant lady is unique. If you’re one of the happy few who never gets morning sickness, for instance, you may relax and enjoy your pregnancy. But if you do have symptoms, you should definitely pay heed to them. If you are pregnant and have any health concerns, you should always consult your doctor.
23 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)Your pregnancy bump grows larger at 23 weeks.
Braxton Hicks contractions are also becoming more noticeable for some mothers.
This is your uterus contracting and relaxing. You’ve been having contractions since you were about 7 weeks pregnant. They are not painful and should not cause you concern.
Braxton Hicks will become more frequent and intense from now until the baby is born. If the Braxton Hicks contractions become uncomfortable, consult your doctor immediately.
You may have an irritated uterus, which implies you should take things slowly.
Braxton Hicks at 23 weeks PregnantAt 23 weeks pregnant, you may find that your Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming more frequent and intense. You may feel them in your back or lower abdomen, and they may last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. If you’re having regular contractions, it’s important to talk with your doctor about any pain or discomfort you experience during them.
Braxton Hicks are common during the third trimester. You may not even notice them because they feel like mild discomfort or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. They’re also called practice contractions because they prepare your body for real labor by getting it ready to push out a baby when the time comes.
23 weeks pregnant ultrasoundTypically performed between weeks 18 and 22, the 20-week ultrasound is also known as an anatomy or anomaly scan. It can discover certain congenital problems by monitoring your baby’s organ and limb development. Discovering your child’s gender is usually possible.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
23 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 23 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 4,060 – 165,400+ mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
17 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
17 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 17 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 17 of pregnancyAround this stage, your baby’s ears will emerge from his head, and he will be able to detect sounds. He has lots to listen to while in utero! He is accustomed to hearing your heart beating rapidly, blood streaming through your veins, and stomach growling. He can also distinguish external sounds, such as your speech and music. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is unclear whether he can distinguish the sound of your voice from other sounds.
By week 17, the majority of mothers report feeling fetal movement. Kick, you tiny one!
This week, your infant weighs about 5 ounces and is about 5 inches long (crown to rump). Approximately the size of a red onion.
17 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 17 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 4 months of your pregnancy. Just another 5 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 17 weeks pregnant?At 17 weeks your baby, also known as a foetus, is currently about 150g in weight and around 12cm to 12.5 cm in length from head to bottom which is about the size of a pomegranate or potato and the weight of a ball of mozzarella. They are growing quickly and are about to have a growth spurt. They will roughly double in size over the next month.
17 weeks pregnant: baby’s developmentThe skin has sweat glands. By the time the fetus is 17 weeks old, its heart has already beat over 20 million times. Each day, the fetal heart pumps approximately 55 quarts of blood.
Multiple studies have shown that the fetus reacts to painful stimuli with a stress response that includes recoiling and a rise in circulating stress hormones that are distinct from the mother’s stress hormones.
Previously, the fetus would move away when something touched his face; however, the fetal now twists his head toward the object while simultaneously closing his mouth.
7 These motions signal the beginning of the rooting reflex, which enables a newborn to locate the mother’s nip while breastfeeding.
Fetus drinks amniotic fluidEach day, the fetus consumes 2 to 7 mL of amniotic fluid. In comparison, the fetus consumes between 500 and 1000 mL of amniotic fluid daily during the final month of pregnancy. Similarly, during one week after birth, a newborn consumes approximately 500 mL of breastmilk or formula daily.
Eyes still developingEven while eyelids are closed, the eyes continue to develop. The retina, located at the back of the eye, turns light into neural signals. It currently comprises several layers that separate cell types.
The retinas of animals are traversed by waves of spontaneous electrical activity. This enables the retinal cells to link to the visual cortex in the brain and organize inputs from the right and left eyes. Although these spontaneous retinal waves have never been recorded directly in a human fetus, it is likely that they begin about this age.
Your body at 17 weeks pregnantEvery time you visit the doctor or clinic, they will measure your blood sugar by dipping a strip of paper into a cup of your urine. Why are they checking my blood sugar levels? It’s to rule out the possibility of developing gestational diabetes, a disorder that affects 1%-2% of pregnant women. Women can have safe pregnancies and newborns when blood sugar levels are managed (via food and, in certain cases, medication).
Pregnancy Weight Gain and Other SymptomsEvery day, your body undergoes internal and external changes to make room for your unborn child. You may experience an increase in itching in the breasts and belly area as your skin stretches. As your body adapts to carrying a baby, you may notice that your back starts to hurt. Constriction of the digestive tract can cause discomfort in the form of heartburn, indigestion, and flatulence. Hormones during pregnancy might continue to mess with your emotions, which can lead to erratic mood swings.
Having Trouble Sleeping at 17 weeks PregnantHaving difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
When you’re 17 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.
17 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and NutritionWhat should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:
Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your bellyIntense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.Saunas and hot tubsChemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and permsWeek 17 Unsightly Pregnancy Signs and symptomsYour body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.
Weight gainYou should expect to gain 25 to 35 pounds during your pregnancy. As distressing as weight gain can be for some women, those pounds are necessary for your growing baby. Much of the weight is extra fluids (such as blood), tissues (like your breasts), and of course, your baby. If you eat a sensible pregnancy diet and stay fit, you should be able to lose much of your pregnancy weight after your baby’s birth. (Some women are able to shed pounds in a matter of weeks; others need as much as a year to get their bodies back in shape).
Breast changes and tendernessTenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 17th week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.
Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.
Heartburn or gasThere may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 17th week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.
Mood swings and crying spellsThe 17th week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.
Food cravings, aversions, or bothDuring your 17th week of pregnancy, It’s common to crave foods that are high in protein, such as meat and cheese, which are essential for your baby’s development. You may also have strong aversions to certain foods, like vegetables or fruits that you normally enjoy eating but now find repulsive. This is normal—just make sure you don’t completely eliminate any food groups from your diet.
Pregnant stretch marksIn the 17th week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)
Indigestion, or constipationDuring the 17th week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).
Swelling (edema)Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.
Bleeding gumsYour blood volume has increased dramatically to provide nutrients to your baby-to-be. This increase, along with swelling caused by pregnancy hormones, might make your gums bleed.
Skin spotsThe skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.
No symptoms at 17 weeks pregnantYes, it is possible to be 17 weeks pregnant with no obvious signs of pregnancy at all! It’s important to remember that every pregnant lady is unique. If you’re one of the happy few who never gets morning sickness, for instance, you may relax and enjoy your pregnancy. But if you do have symptoms, you should definitely pay heed to them. If you are pregnant and have any health concerns, you should always consult your doctor.
17 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)When you’re 17 weeks pregnant, you’ll probably notice that you look more pregnant than you did before. Your 17 weeks pregnant belly size will be largely determined by how many pregnancies you’ve had.It may take a while for you to develop a proper baby bump if this is your first pregnancy. In contrast, if you have had previous pregnancies, your muscles are more lax and you’ll show more of a 17 weeks pregnant bump.Around this time, you may also notice a dark line running from your belly button to your pelvis. It’s known as “linea nigra”, and it’s completely normal among pregnant women. After delivery, it will fade, so don’t worry!You will gain more weight than you did in the first trimester because your baby will need nutrients to grow and develop. To gain 1 pound per week, doctors recommend eating approximately 300 extra calories per day. During week 17 of pregnancy, you should be able to feel the uterus halfway between your pubic bone and your belly button.17 weeks pregnant ultrasoundIf you’re 17 weeks pregnant and planning on having a cordocentesis, you may be offered an ultrasound. This method examines blood taken from the umbilical cord for chromosomal abnormalities. The ultrasound helps the doctor locate the cord’s attachment to the placenta, which is where the blood will be drawn from.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
17 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 17 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 8,240–51,793 mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
12 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
12 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 12 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 12 of pregnancyFor your unborn baby, the completion of the first trimester is a significant milestone. Her main bodily systems are all functioning properly. Her tiny intestine is neatly tucked inside the abdomen and is no longer entangled with the umbilical cord in her digestive system.
Her brain is fully formed, and the unborn baby’s nervous system is still forming. Many of her organs are also beginning to function independently. Her thyroid, for instance, starts secreting hormones. She no longer qualifies as an embryo at your 13th week of pregnancy; instead, she becomes a fetus. She already resembles the baby you’re probably picturing more and more; she even has small fingernails.
The end of the first trimester is near! And if you have a prenatal checkup this week, you’ll probably be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat with a fetal doppler.
12 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 12 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 3 months of your pregnancy. Just another 7 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 12 weeks pregnant?The entire length of your kid, from head to toe, is now around 2 inches (5 cm), making him or her about the size of a plum or a passion fruit. Its 0.49 oz (14 g) of mass is roughly equivalent to three grapes.
12 weeks pregnant: baby’s developmentThe fetus gains more than half its initial body weight in this week of rapid development. The fetus’s arms also start to seem more in line with the rest of his body, and his torso starts expanding more quickly than his head. Your baby’s intestines are fully developed, and they’re starting to change position, moving from near the umbilical cord into their rightful place, the abdomen.
This week, the fetus’ gut grows villi, which look like fingernails and increase the intestine’s surface area, allowing it to absorb more nutrients. Water and glucose have been absorbed by intestinal wall cells for almost a week, but the villi improve the efficiency of this process.
The sex organs are formed, although most scans will not be able to tell your baby’s sex until later. Your OB or technician is much more likely to be able to see baby’s sex at the mid-pregnancy anatomy scan, which will happen around week 20
The fetus displays goal-directed motions toward her own eyes and mouth as well as the uterine wall, as shown by ultrasounds of fetal movements investigated by scientists 12 weeks after conception. At this stage, the fetal motions are no longer jerky and ballistic, and the hands begin to calm down as they come closer to their target.
If the fetus is a twin, she may also aim some of her movements toward her sibling. The fetus also makes softer movements as she reaches for her sister’s face. In a similar vein, by 16 weeks postconception, the fetus will utilize her dominant hand to reach for her eyes and mouth with better speed and accuracy than her nondominant hand.
In the coming weeks, newborns will begin to develop at varying rates, with some developing more quickly than others. In spite of this, they all progress in the same way.
Your body at 12 weeks pregnantIf you’ve had a difficult time (with all the moodiness, exhaustion, and nausea), you’ll probably start to feel better as you enter your second trimester. That is, until you get to the end of your pregnancy and your extra weight starts to drag you down.
If you’ve recently experienced some strange dreams, it’s perfectly normal. Pregnancy affects you more than just physically. While pregnant, dreams appear to be more vivid. In their dreams, some women imagine they are preparing to give birth to a little animal or that aliens have seized control of them.
What is the subject of your dreams? To decode your pregnant dreams, keep a notebook and consult our A-Z guide. Most women will be experiencing a decrease in morning sickness this week.
Between your workstation and the women’s restroom, are you wearing a path? During your pregnancy, frequent trips to the restroom are normal. Your body requires more fluids to support your baby’s growth, which also means you’ll need to use the restroom more frequently.
The nausea you were experiencing throughout pregnancy should be less severe, if not gone altogether, which is a positive development. Although your clothes are getting tighter as your tummy gets bigger, most of your acquaintances still probably haven’t guessed the happy news (unless you’ve told them!).
12 weeks pregnant tipsDrink plenty of waterStaying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.
Use the bathroom—oftenDrinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.
Bring light snacksFood may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.
Wear comfortable clothesYou’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.
Watch your postureTake time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.
Early pregnancy symptoms at 12 weeksThe first trimester (0 to 12 weeks pregnant) of pregnancy is different for every woman, and every pregnancy is unique. Some women feel nauseous and tired right away, while others don’t begin to experience symptoms until later in the first trimester.
During this time, your body is getting used to the changes that are happening and preparing for the arrival of your baby. is different. You might feel great and hardly notice you’re pregnant, or you might have some symptoms like nausea or fatigue that can make you feel pretty lousy. .
This is the most variable and unpredictable phase of pregnancy, since it typically lasts the longest (and can last up to two weeks longer than other trimesters). It’s also a time when many women don’t know they are pregnant due to early miscarriages or even false positives on pregnancy tests.
Bleeding and sensitive gumsIn addition to swelling, hormone levels may change as you age, leading to sensitivity in your gums, even bleeding when you brush and floss. It’s perfectly normal for this to happen, although it can be disconcerting. Keep brushing and flossing regularly, and speak to your dentist if necessary. Using a softer toothbrush and rinsing with salt water (a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a cup of warm water) can help.
Having lightheadednessYour body produces more blood vessels during pregnancy, and your hormone levels change. There may be times when you feel dizzy or lightheaded as a result of this. To feel better, wear loose clothing, stay hydrated, avoid long periods of standing, and eat regularly. Avoid changing positions abruptly after sitting and stand up slowly after sitting. Should you experience abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding, or if you feel lightheaded, call your healthcare provider.
Sensitivity to smells.During this phase of pregnancy, your sense of smell is especially sensitive. Avoid strong odors by eating cold or room-temperature food, using a fan when cooking, and having someone else take out the trash if certain odors bother you. You may also notice a metallic taste in your mouth, which is normal. Don’t brush your teeth too much or use flavored dental products; they can make the problem worse.
Feeling bloatedBloating may be caused by hormonal changes and the growth of your uterus. Bloating may be relieved by eating slowly, which prevents you from swallowing air. You may find that a high-fiber diet helps to reduce bloating. Consuming plenty of water and avoiding carbonated drinks also can help. You can also try eating smaller portions and exercising regularly to help reduce bloating.
Spotting or bleedingIt is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider if you notice bleeding other than light spotting (which can occur after intercourse, for example) during or after 12 weeks of pregnancy. The bleeding might be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. You should also contact your doctor if you have vaginal bleeding after 12 weeks of pregnancy, especially if it is accompanied by abdominal pain or cramps.
An increase in hungerYou may feel hungrier than normal, so eat more snacks, keeping in mind that 300 calories is all you need to add to your daily diet. Your body may be craving certain foods, so try eating more of them. If you are bored with your routine, spice things up a bit by trying new foods or recipes. You can also try eating more protein, which helps you feel full longer.
No symptoms 12 weeks pregnantThat’s right, it’s possible to be 12 weeks pregnant with no symptoms whatsoever! Every pregnancy and every woman is different. For example, some women never experience morning sickness, so if you’re one of the lucky few, enjoy these nausea-free days without worry. However, if you do experience any symptoms, it’s important to pay attention. You should always see your doctor if you have any concerns about your pregnancy or health.
12 weeks pregnant belly sizeYou’ve probably noticed that your midsection is getting thicker. It will take longer for you to show signs of pregnancy if this is not your first pregnancy than if you have carried a child before. Any way you look at it, just remember that your hiccup is on the way!
As your belly grows, the muscles and ligaments supporting it will strain. This might cause discomfort. If this persists or worsens, see a doctor.
12 weeks pregnant ultrasoundYour doctor will likely do a first-trimester ultrasound sometime between weeks 8 and 12. Therefore, there’s a possibility that you’ve already had the ultrasound or that you will soon.
When you have a first-trimester ultrasound in the tenth week of your pregnancy, you can anticipate jerky movements and a heartbeat that is 2 to 3 times quicker than your own.
A good time to talk to your doctor about first-trimester screening is about week 10 of pregnancy. Although this form of screening is not required, doctors may advise it if you or your spouse have a family history of genetic disorders, have experienced past losses, or are older than 35.
Between weeks 10 and 14, a procedure known as a nuchal translucency screening, or NT scan, can be carried out. Your doctor will utilize ultrasonography to assess the likelihood of Down syndrome in your unborn child during this diagnostic procedure. Blood testing can be performed to evaluate the risk for further hereditary diseases. Gender determination during the first trimester might be done in addition to other testing.
Preparing for PregnancyStart your pregnancy out on the right foot by taking prenatal vitamins, consuming enough of orange juice (which is a good source of folic acid), and engaging in regular physical activity.
Do not drink alcohol, use drugs, or smoke cigarettes if you are trying to conceive; you may not know when you became pregnant. Talk to your doctor about whether or not any medications, including those you use regularly, pose any risk to your unborn child.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
12 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 12 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 28,000 tp 210,000 mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
24 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
24 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 24 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 24 of pregnancyNow that you are in your 24th week of pregnancy, your baby is putting on weight. When you gain weight, some of that extra energy goes into helping him gain weight, too. A little on the frail side, so his skin creases where he’s thinnest, but he appears just like a smaller replica of what you’ll see on delivery day. His eyes, ears, and nose are all developed, and his face is about finished shaping up (although his lids are still closed). He already has eyelashes, fingernails, and possibly hair. And now I’m starting to experience REM sleep.
24 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 24 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 6 months of your pregnancy, just another 4 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 24 weeks pregnant?At 24 weeks your baby, also known as a foetus, is currently about 450g (15.8 oz) in weight and around 29 cm (11.5 in) in length from head to bottom. That’s approximately the size full ear of corn. They are growing quickly and are about to have a growth spurt. They will roughly almost double in size over the next month.
24 weeks pregnant baby positionDuring weeks 21 to 24, your baby is still small enough to change positions a lot – head down, feet down, or even sideways. Your baby sleeps long hours every day, about 12 to 14 hours, although it might not seem like it to you.
24 weeks pregnant: baby’s development 21-25 weeks baby developmentsAs early as 23 weeks after conception, the fetus exhibits a blink-startle response to sudden sounds. Some experts have dubbed this a “squint-startle” response because the fetus’ eyes are still mostly closed. As shown in children and adults, this response continues to develop until 30 weeks after conception. Interestingly, girls are more likely than boys to master the startle reaction first.
Breathing is the most challenging aspect of life outside the womb. The lungs of an unborn child begin producing a chemical called surfactant about the 20th or 22nd week after conception. When a newborn exhales, the surfactant prevents the two ends of the airway from sticking together.
The developing fetus produces enough surfactant to ensure its own survival by the time it is 24 to 26 weeks old. In order to keep the alveoli open and increase the likelihood of survival in infants, doctors have created a synthetic surfactant. This has led to a dramatic increase in the age at which children can be saved. The use of steroids prior to delivery has also been shown to hasten lung development and the production of surfactant, both of which improve the baby’s chances of survival.
44 Breaths Per MinuteIn another study, researchers found that while carbon dioxide levels in the mother’s blood were greater, the fetus’ breathing rate also increased, much as adult breathing rates would increase when exposed to high amounts of carbon dioxide. This demonstrates that the fetal processes required for a rise in breathing rate in response to changes in blood gas levels are already in place.
Eye developmentThere is a significant increase in the number of rods and cones, the light-sensitive receptors in the eyes, by week 25 of development. Small amounts of light, as well as light in the periphery, can be detected by the eyes thanks to rods. Cones, on the other hand, are responsible for acute, vivid vision and primarily detect light in the visual center. Each of an adult’s eyes contains 100 million rods and 7 million cones.
During pregnancy and the first year following birth, cones migrate into the fovea while rods leave it.
A fetus in the womb will respond to light at 26 weeks following conception, the same as a premature baby born at 24 weeks. Pupils change size after birth to let the right quantity of light into the eye. This development in pupil size is initially recognized in the fetus at 27 weeks after conception, and it is regularly present in preterm infants at 31 weeks following conception.
Your body at 24 weeks pregnantDo you have a regular workout routine? Are you eating healthily? Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Some of the signs of labor can be avoided, and you and your baby will benefit from increased energy, radiant skin, and a balanced diet. The topic of skin brings up… Your skin may start to stretch and you may get stretch marks or a linea negra, a dark line that runs from your belly button to your pubic bone. Stretch marks and linea negra both go away with time.
As your baby bulge expands, you may find it harder to do everyday tasks like bending over to tie your shoes. Due to the rapid expansion of your uterus, you may experience itching and pain as your skin expands to accommodate your developing baby. With the help of those wonderful pregnancy hormones, your joints will begin to loosen up so that they can make room for your baby and you may begin to get ready for birth.
Prenatal ExerciseYou may be discouraged to see the scale inching (or jumping!) upwards. Pregnancy is not the right time to try to lose weight or begin a rigorous exercise regime, but regular exercise can be beneficial and ease some of your pregnancy pains.
Benefits of Prenatal ExerciseHere are some pregnancy woes that exercise can lessen.
Backaches: Walking and prenatal yoga can improve your posture, which has probably been suffering under the weight of your expanding belly.Edema (swelling): Exercise can boost your circulation explains Dr. William Camann, MD, director of obstetric anesthesia at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, and coauthor of Easy Labor Better circulation can prevent or at least ease some of your swelling.Stress reliever: Nothing clears your head and energizes like a brisk walk around the block.Labor preparer: Regular exercise strengthens your muscles for delivery day. “Exercising can help you feel more confident about labor,” says Dr. Camann. And if you’ve kept yourself in reasonable shape, chances are losing weight post-pregnancy will be that much easier.How to Get StartedBefore starting any new workout routine, it’s important to see your doctor (even if you were a star athlete pre-pregnancy).
Prenatal classes can be helpful, and your doctor or midwife may be able to recommend one. Prenatal exercise sessions are widely available, both in hospitals and in health clubs. Working out with other ladies who are experiencing the same issues as you will help keep you motivated and prevent you from feeling alone in your struggle with weight gain. Prenatal fitness classes, including yoga and swimming, are commonly available in health clinics and gyms.
Dr. Camann recommends starting walking if you haven’t been exercising before pregnancy. To stay in working shape, try going for 20-minute walks several times a week.
Exercises to AvoidDr. Camann says, “There are several exercises you should avoid during pregnancy.” Skiing, tennis, and other high-impact sports and activities, such as high-intensity interval training, can cause injury. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about participating in a certain sport. As a doctor with decades of experience, Dr. Camann advises, “No, you shouldn’t be jumping on a trampoline when you’re pregnant!”
Just keep in mind that being fit is more important than losing weight at this point. Keep in mind that your body will not react the same way to exercise while you are pregnant. You’ve got an extra 25-35 pounds to lug about, and your organs, lungs included, have to work harder to accommodate the increased blood volume.
24 weeks pregnant tips and adviceDrink plenty of waterStaying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.
Use the bathroom—oftenDrinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.
Bring light snacksFood may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.
Wear comfortable clothesYou’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.
Watch your postureTake time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.
Having Trouble Sleeping at 24 weeks PregnantHaving difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
When you’re 24 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.
24 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and NutritionWhat should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:
Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your bellyIntense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.Saunas and hot tubsChemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and permsWeek 24 unsightly pregnancy symptomsYour body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.
Weight gainYou should expect to gain 25 to 35 pounds during your pregnancy. As distressing as weight gain can be for some women, those pounds are necessary for your growing baby. Much of the weight is extra fluids (such as blood), tissues (like your breasts), and of course, your baby. If you eat a sensible pregnancy diet and stay fit, you should be able to lose much of your pregnancy weight after your baby’s birth. (Some women are able to shed pounds in a matter of weeks; others need as much as a year to get their bodies back in shape).
Breast changes and tendernessTenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 24th week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.
Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.
Heartburn or gasThere may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 24th week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.
Mood swings and crying spellsThe 24th week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.
Pregnant stretch marksIn the 24th week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)
Indigestion, or constipationDuring the 24th week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).
Swelling (edema)Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.
Bleeding gumsYour blood volume has increased dramatically to provide nutrients to your baby-to-be. This increase, along with swelling caused by pregnancy hormones, might make your gums bleed.
Skin spotsThe skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.
No symptoms at 24 weeks pregnantYes, it is possible to be 24 weeks pregnant with no obvious signs of pregnancy at all! It’s important to remember that every pregnant lady is unique. If you’re one of the happy few who never gets morning sickness, for instance, you may relax and enjoy your pregnancy. But if you do have symptoms, you should definitely pay heed to them. If you are pregnant and have any health concerns, you should always consult your doctor.
24 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)If this is your first pregnancy, your height, weight before pregnancy, and body shape will all play a role in how big your bump gets to be.
Some women may be able to see the baby move when sitting or lying down, depending on the form of their bellies. A larger person may not feel as many fetal movements as a smaller person.
Your pregnancy bump may appear earlier in your second or third trimester.
A doctor may suggest an ultrasound if you have rapid abdominal growth or if you have stretch marks. This could be a sign of amniotic fluid overload. In this time of pregnancy, a huge belly is normal, therefore there is no need for alarm until you notice other symptoms.
Braxton Hicks at 24 weeks PregnantAt 24 weeks pregnant, you may find that your Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming more frequent and intense. You may feel them in your back or lower abdomen, and they may last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. If you’re having regular contractions, it’s important to talk with your doctor about any pain or discomfort you experience during them.
Braxton Hicks are common during the third trimester. You may not even notice them because they feel like mild discomfort or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. They’re also called practice contractions because they prepare your body for real labor by getting it ready to push out a baby when the time comes.
24 weeks pregnant ultrasoundYour baby’s heart rate will be between 120 and 160 beats per minute this week. Most of a baby’s organ systems are fully formed at this point. On an ultrasound, your baby will have traits similar to a newborn’s, but no fatty tissue.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
24 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 24 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 4,060 – 165,400+ mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
11 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
Find out what to expect when you’re 11 weeks pregnant. Find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 11-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 11 of pregnancyYour unborn baby body may still look a little weird during the eleventh week of pregnancy. To this point in his growth, his head has already expanded to take up more space than his entire body.
The rest of his body will catch up in a few weeks, so don’t worry about him. Your baby’s small intestine is currently visible outside of his body, winding around his umbilical cord.
11 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 11 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 3 months of your pregnancy. Just another 7 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 11 weeks pregnant?Your baby has grown quite a bit this week, reaching a length of just over 112 inches and a weight of nearly a quarter of an ounce.
11 weeks pregnant: baby’s developmentThis is a time of rapid development for your baby. By week 12, the placenta will have finished developing fully. The earphones on the side of the head and the facial bones are now fully formed. Eyelids are still closed and won’t open for a few months, so don’t worry.
In this life stage, the head is significantly larger than the rest of the body; in fact, it accounts for one-third of the entire organism’s total length. However, the body is expanding rapidly. Aw, look, the toes and fingers are falling off!
Does the baby pee in the womb?Yes! The fetus begins urinating in the amniotic sac during the 11th week after conception. The fetus urinates at a rate of around half a liter each day in the final month of pregnancy.
Water and glucose from amniotic fluid, which the fetus also eats, are absorbed by the fetal intestine around 11 weeks after conception.
Additionally, the fetal respiratory tract absorbs a lot of the water that the fetus ingests. In light of this, it is crucial that the amniotic fluid recycling process be rapid. In fact, every three hours the amniotic fluid’s water content entirely shifts.
Your body at 11 weeks pregnantAt this point in your pregnancy, it’s important to think about how you’ll keep up a balanced diet and regular exercise program. When discussing physical activity, it is recommended that you learn and begin performing 25 Kegel exercises every day.
You don’t need a gym membership to perform these routines! Congested commute? Dishes to be washed? Stuck in a meeting where your employer gives you a dull presentation or lecture? Now you can perform a Kegel! A strong pelvic floor and toned vaginal and perineal area are the results of regular Kegel exercises.
For a Kegel, one must contract the muscles around the vagina and anus and hold for eight to ten seconds. Confused? As a form of training, try to halt a steady flow of urine while you’re seated on the toilet.
The first trimester of your pregnancy is almost over! Your body is in full-fledged work mode, despite the fact that you may feel weary, sore, and even nauseous at times. As a result, more oxygen and nutrients may be carried to your developing baby and the rest of your body.
Your ligaments and muscles have been loosening as a result of the pregnancy hormones coursing through your body, allowing you to grow to accommodate your growing kid.
Your breasts have expanded greatly because other hormones have alerted the rest of your body to get ready to feed your infant. There may be little outward evidence of all the internal changes you’ve been going through save for a baby bump. (Your belly will grow to the size of a basketball in no time!)
Week 11 Pregnancy DietYou may have seen your belly getting bigger and the numbers on the scale slowly rising. I understand. Gaining weight during a healthy pregnancy is normal. Many doctors are hesitant to assign a specific weight gain to a “typical” pregnancy since they recognize that every woman is unique.
You might not need to acquire as much weight as an underweight woman if you were overweight before getting pregnant. Accordingly, a lady of normal size might anticipate gaining 25 to 35 pounds while pregnant.
Even while weight gain is unavoidable during pregnancy, you shouldn’t abandon good eating practices in favor of extra ice cream scoops and double servings of everything else. Eating properly will not only improve your mood and provide your unborn child with the nutrition he needs, but it will also make it simpler for you to shed the excess weight when your baby is born.
Where do those pounds go?Those added pounds are there for a reason; here’s how they are distributed:
Baby: 7 1/2 poundsAmniotic fluid: 2 poundsPlacenta: 1 1/2 poundsUterus: 2 poundsBreasts: 2 poundsBody fluids: 4 poundsBlood: 4 poundsMaternal stores (like fat, protein, and nutrients): 7 poundsKeep in mind you’ll be adding these 30 pounds gradually throughout your pregnancy.
Avoid gaining too muchContrary to popular belief, you shouldn’t quadruple your calorie intake while pregnant. A healthy adult woman of average stature needs 1,800 to 2,200 calories per day.
You should increase your calorie intake by 300, not 1,000, to give your body the extra nutrition it need during pregnancy. In actuality, 300 calories are not a lot. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) claims that all it takes to add 300 calories to your diet is a bagel, some string cheese, or an extra tall glass of milk.
Foods that are good for you and your baby-to-beMake the most of your increased calories by choosing foods that will provide the maximum nutrient kick. Here are a few nutrients that will benefit you and your unborn baby:
Protein: This important nutrient provides the building blocks for tissue. In your unborn baby, protein promotes muscle growth; and for you, protein builds up breast tissue. Bring on the meat, chicken, and milk!Calcium: Strong bones begin with calcium. Your baby-to-be will need plenty of calcium to build her bones, and your bones will need extra support, too. Add plenty of cheese, milk, and calcium-fortified juices to your grocery list. (Maybe a little ice cream, too!)Iron: Remember that increased blood supply? Well, iron is what helps form blood. Choose iron-rich foods such as red meat, eggs, beans, and green vegetables.Folic Acid: Found in oranges, green vegetables, and beans, folic acid prevents spina bifida, a serious birth deformity. Don’t forget your glass of orange juice in the morning to help stave off this potential problem.Pregnancy is not the time to diet. Instead of worrying about gaining weight, base your food choices instead on what will provide your growing baby the nutrients she needs.
11 weeks pregnant: possible symptomsThe first trimester (0 to 111 weeks) of pregnancy is different for every woman, and every pregnancy. According to the Office on Women’s Health, one of the most common early signs is a missed menstrual period.
Common signs and symptomsThe most common early signs and symptoms of pregnancy might include:
Spotting.You may see some spotting in the first trimester; call your healthcare provider if you see any more than a few drops of blood.Cramping.Mild cramping during pregnancy is common during week 9. As your baby grows, your uterus and other tissues around it will grow as well. It’s important to see a doctor right away if you experience discomfort that’s worse than period cramps, especially if it’s followed by a high temperature or diarrhea.Morning sickness. This could be the week that morning sickness finally hits you if it hasn’t already. Nausea that usually occurs in the morning can strike at any moment. It could be set off by anything, including certain motions, odors, an empty stomach, or perhaps nothing at all. Keep some crackers or other simple starchy snacks on hand for those unexpected spells of nausea.Exhaustion. It’s normal to feel wiped out from pregnancy exhaustion. Naps may assist when your progesterone levels rise and cause you to feel increasingly sleepy, and some women report that modest exercise and small meals help, too. Too little iron can lead to anemia, which in turn can make you feel weary all the time.Moodiness.The surge of hormones that occur during pregnancy can cause a woman to experience an outpouring of feelings, including sadness and even tears. Additionally, it is not uncommon to notice shifts in one’s mood.Frequent urination. It is also typical to have to use the restroom more frequently than usual during this time. Your kidneys are putting in extra hours of effort in order to handle the more fluid that is currently in your body.Mood swings. The remainder of your pregnancy could be rife with emotional ups and downs. The first trimester is when mood swings are most likely, the second is when they tend to lessen, and the third is when they can return. You can quickly and easily feel better by doing things like eating healthy, talking to friends, sleeping, and doing modest exercise.Food aversions. It’s possible that you will become more sensitive to certain odors and tastes when you’re pregnant. Hormonal changes can explain these food preferences, as well as most other pregnancy symptoms.Nasal congestion. A rise in hormone levels and blood production can cause your mucous membranes to swell, dry out, and bleed easily. As a result, you may feel stuffy or have a runny nose.An increase in hunger. You may feel hungrier than normal, so eat more snacks, keeping in mind that 300 calories is all you need to add to your daily diet.No symptoms week 9 pregnant. That’s right, it’s possible to be nine weeks pregnant with no symptoms whatsoever! Every pregnancy and every woman is different. For example, some women never experience morning sickness, so if you’re one of the lucky few, enjoy these nausea-free days without worry.11 weeks pregnant belly sizeYou’ve probably noticed that your midsection is getting thicker. It will take longer for you to show signs of pregnancy if this is not your first pregnancy than if you have carried a child before. Any way you look at it, just remember that your hiccup is on the way!
As your belly grows, the muscles and ligaments supporting it will strain. This might cause discomfort. If this persists or worsens, see a doctor.
11 weeks pregnant ultrasoundUltrasounds at 11 weeks are standard checks on the health and growth of your baby. The scan will allow your doctor to see the fetus, take its measurements, and check for a heartbeat.
Pregnant women often have their first ultrasound between the eighth and fourteenth week of pregnancy. In most cases, another scan will be performed between 18 and 21 weeks.
It’s important to know that screening tests can detect a variety of severe developmental problems (including Down’s syndrome) in the early stages of pregnancy.
Your doctor has probably already stated this and started the process, but
Preparing for PregnancyStart your pregnancy out on the right foot by taking prenatal vitamins, consuming enough of orange juice (which is a good source of folic acid), and engaging in regular physical activity. Do not drink alcohol, use drugs, or smoke cigarettes if you are trying to conceive; you may not know when you became pregnant. Talk to your doctor about whether or not any medications, including those you use regularly, pose any risk to your unborn child.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defects. These defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.The placenta and baby require iron to develop. The body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cellsIt’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
11 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 11 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 44,186–170,409 mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
September 25, 2022
13 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound
13 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 13 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?
Your baby at week 13 of pregnancyThis week is an important one for your baby-to-be. In terms of her development, she is no longer an embryo but a fetus. Every day, she looks and acts more and more like a baby. She looks like she is resting because her eyelids have formed and joined together, but her arms and legs move and twitch (though you probably can’t feel it yet). She can also sucking her thumb.
Your child is about as big as an egg. She’s getting bigger and heavier. She now weighs about.5 to.8 ounces and is about 3 inches long (crown to rump).
13 weeks pregnant is how many months?When you are 13 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 3 months of your pregnancy. Just another 6 months to go! Congratulations, you’ve already made great progress!
How big is your baby at 13 weeks pregnant?At 13 weeks your baby, or foetus, is about 7.4 cm long, which is about the size of a peach or a lemon. About 25g, which is about the same weight as a toothbrush with toothpaste on it.
Your baby’s head is now about half the size of his crown-to-rump length. That’s one reason why your baby looks more and more like an alien at this point. By the time you give birth, his body will have caught up and will be three-quarters of the size it will be at birth.
But don’t compare your baby to the baby next door. In the next week or so, babies will start to grow at different rates. Some will grow faster than others, and some will grow more slowly, but they will all follow the same path.
13 weeks pregnant: baby’s developmentEvidence suggests that a fetus can feel pain as early as 13 weeks after conception. In contrast to the widespread distribution of touch receptors, pain receptors evolve at a later stage than their non-specialist counterparts.
Between 8 and 15 weeks post conception, pain receptors begin to form in the hands and oral cavity. The appearance of substance P and enkephalins, two pain-processing-specific neurotransmitters, has been observed as early as 8-10 weeks after conception and 10-12 weeks after conception, respectively.
Further, the spinal cord and thalamus, which are linked to the basic pain receptors, can be seen as early as 13 weeks after conception. Although the cortex is not yet fully formed, the thalamus, insula, and brainstem are all mature enough to process pain by the time a fetus is 13 weeks old. The available data imply that a fetus can now experience pain.
In weeks 13 and 14, many sensory systems begin to interpret basic information. At 12 weeks after conception, the olfactory bulb, which is responsible for processing odors, begins to acquire its layered structure.
12–13 weeks after conception, tastebuds begin to cluster in functional taste pores and connect to cranial nerves, increasing the likelihood that the fetus may taste the amniotic fluid at this point.
The fetus, at 13 to 14 weeks after conception, will drink more sweet amniotic fluid and less bitter fluid. By 13 weeks following conception, each sense has evolved to a certain extent.
Your body at 13 weeks pregnantHooray! You should be experiencing less morning sickness now, and the chance of miscarriage is less likely. As you enter your second trimester, you will feel both relief and reality. There’s no doubt about it – you’re having a baby! Now that the high-risk period has passed, it’s probably time to make some pregnancy announcements. That is, if you’ve been able to keep the big news a secret. And if there’s a big brother or sister in the house, now is the time to let siblings know that a baby is on the way.It’s time to celebrate! You’re almost through your first trimester. Some of your aches and pains may finally be disappearing. As nausea fades, hunger takes its place – pregnancy cravings are often felt now. As your uterus expands, you may also experience heartburn, indigestion, and flatulence.A Reason to Celebrate
The second trimester of a pregnancy is often the most joyful for women since discomforts like nausea give way to charming baby bumps and an alluring pregnant glow.
Here are a few reasons why you’re feeling so good:
Disappearing nausea: Although it’s not uncommon for morning sickness to linger into the second trimester, your sick days are probably coming to an end. The reason why? Your body has become accustomed to the increased hormones propelling you into baby-mode.Increased appetite: Now that your nausea is on the way out, it’s time to enjoy food again. You may notice that your appetite grows along with your baby-to-be. Bring on the ice cream and pickles!Growing baby bump: Your body’s changing inside and out to accommodate your developing baby. Your internal organs shift positions to make room for an expanding uterus, and your skin stretches to allow your bump to grow outward. You’re finally not just feeling pregnant—you’re looking pregnant, too! “Showing” is probably a relief. People are more likely to hold the door open for you, pass on a sympathetic smile, and even let you cut in line at the grocery store.Lessening breast tenderness: Your breasts went through a big growth spurt during your first trimester that may have left them sore and uncomfortable. They most likely will not increase in size during the second trimester (but they may fill out more); you may notice some “starter” milk or colostrum leaking out of your nipples later in the second trimester as your body readies for baby.While some pregnancy symptoms fade with time, others don’t. You’ll still need to take plenty of trips to the bathroom as your growing baby-to-be puts pressure on your bladder. You’re also going to continue to feel tired—unfortunately that’s a constant during pregnancy—but your baby bump is still small enough that you should be able to rest comfortably. So give yourself a break and relax!
13 Weeks Pregnant: Wellness and NutritionWhat should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:
Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your bellyIntense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.Saunas and hot tubsChemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and permsEarly pregnancy symptoms at 13 weeksAt the end of the first trimester, or week 13, you will enter a new phase of your pregnancy. The second trimester of pregnancy consists of months four through six. This week, you should begin to feel less anxious.. Some women feel nauseous and tired right away, while others don’t begin to experience symptoms until later in the first trimester. At this stage of your pregnancy, you may continue to experience physical symptoms,
Breast changes and tendernessTenderness and slight alterations in the shape of your breasts are common pregnancy symptoms around the 13th week. The hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible for these alterations, which help your body get ready for breastfeeding after giving birth. You might find that your breasts are more sensitive to touch and feel fuller than usual.
Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.
Heartburn or gasThere may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 13th week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.
Mood swings and crying spellsThe 13th week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.
Food cravings, aversions, or bothDuring your 13th week of pregnancy, It’s common to crave foods that are high in protein, such as meat and cheese, which are essential for your baby’s development. You may also have strong aversions to certain foods, like vegetables or fruits that you normally enjoy eating but now find repulsive. This is normal—just make sure you don’t completely eliminate any food groups from your diet.
Pregnant stretch marksIn the 13th week of pregnancy, stretch marks, sometimes called striae gravidarum, may occur on the belly. Stretch marks form when the skin is forced apart and then stretched beyond its natural elasticity, as happens during rapid growth or weight gain (like pregnancy)
Indigestion, or constipationDuring the 13th week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).
Increase in visible veinsIn most cases, varicose veins in pregnant women are quite safe. They occur because of stress on the big vein (the inferior vena cava) that transports blood from the lower body to the heart. Itching, discomfort, and even pain are possible side effects of having varicose veins. Thankfully, once you’ve given birth, they typically disappear. Varicose veins can be treated if they cause you discomfort or pain. If you have any questions regarding how to treat your particular symptoms, you should talk to a doctor.
No symptoms at 13 weeks pregnantYes, it is possible to be 13 weeks pregnant with no obvious signs of pregnancy at all! It’s important to remember that every pregnant lady is unique. If you’re one of the happy few who never gets morning sickness, for instance, you may relax and enjoy your pregnancy. But if you do have symptoms, you should definitely pay heed to them. If you are pregnant and have any health concerns, you should always consult your doctor.
13 weeks pregnant belly size (baby bumb)Your baby, or foetus, is around 7.4cm long, or the size of a peach. The weight is around 25g, which is comparable to the weight of a toothbrush with toothpaste on it. Your uterus has risen into your abdominal cavity as it has increased in size and begun to occupy your pelvis (resulting in the typical smooth oval that you may be able to feel).
And this has another consequence: if you’ve been urinating more than usual in the last few months, it’s because your uterus has been placing pressure on your bladder, which should start to relax as the uterus climbs farther up your body.
13 weeks pregnant ultrasoundThis scan will also look for any abnormalities in the fetus. Head, spine, body, stomach, bladder, legs, arms, hands, and feet will all be examined. It is vital to remember that at this point, abnormalities of the heart, kidneys, and face will not be visible.
Between weeks 10 and 14, a procedure known as a nuchal translucency screening, or NT scan, can be carried out. Your doctor will utilize ultrasonography to assess the likelihood of Down syndrome in your unborn child during this diagnostic procedure.
Blood testing can be performed to evaluate the risk for further hereditary diseases. Gender determination during the first trimester might be done in addition to other testing.
Preparing for PregnancyStart your pregnancy out on the right foot by taking prenatal vitamins, consuming enough of orange juice (which is a good source of folic acid), and engaging in regular physical activity.
Do not drink alcohol, use drugs, or smoke cigarettes if you are trying to conceive; you may not know when you became pregnant. Talk to your doctor about whether or not any medications, including those you use regularly, pose any risk to your unborn child.
The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancyDuring pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:
Folic acid prevents neural tube defectsThese defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.
The placenta and baby require iron to developThe body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells
It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.
13 weeks pregnant hCG levelsAt 13 weeks pregnant, your hCG levels can range from about 28,000 tp 210,000 mIU/m.
Explore more in your pregnancy week-by-weekFollow your pregnancy week-by-week to find out how your baby is growing and what is happening to your body.
First Trimester Weeks:Second Trimester WeeksThird Trimester WeeksPregnant Women Also Asked:Got questions about week 6? Other ladies have wondered this…
Articles Sources:
How pregnancy happens. (n.d.)https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/how-pregnancy-happensHuman chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG). (2018.)
https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hormone-hcgKnowing if you are pregnant. (2019).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-get-pregnant/knowing-if-you-are-pregnantNavigating your pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/bleeding-and-spotting-during-pregnancy.aspxPregnancy. (2017).
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancyPregnancy: Sensitivity and specificity. (n. d.).
http://getthediagnosis.org/diagnosis/Pregnancy.htmPregnancy tests. (n.d.)
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/pregnancy/pregnancy-testsPregnancy week by week. Weeks 1–2. (n.d.).
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/week-by-week.aspxStages of pregnancy. (n.d.).
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy
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