The nineteenth week of pregnancy is a very important week for both Mom and baby. There are many critical changes happening within both systems. As the middle of the pregnancy term approaches, Mom is probably feeling more comfortable with her pregnancy and the changes in her body.
Symptoms and Body Changes at 19 Weeks
As you go through your nineteenth week of pregnancy, you may notice more changes on the exterior of your body. Dry, flaky skin may form as your metabolism and blood volume increase.
Your tendency to dehydrate and your sensitivity to heat will increase, so it’s important that you continue to provide your body with plenty of fluids; water is best. Stay away from caffeine as much as possible.
Caffeine raises blood pressure and increases your heart rate, and it may also affect the baby. Sodas, fruit juices, and sugary beverages may be dehydrating rather than hydrating. Avoid artificial sweeteners too.
Try to keep your skin lubricated with lotion as much as possible. This can help to prevent skin problems.
Cocoa butter is good for preventing stretch marks, and a good pregnancy diet can help to reduce problems with skin as well.
Baby’s Development
Up until this week your baby has been measured from crown to rump, but now he or she is measured from head to toe.
At 7 ½ inches in length and weighing seven ounces, your baby has grown significantly since last week. The arms and legs are now proportional to the body, the scalp produces hair, and the skin is now covered with fine hair and a creamy material called vernix that protects it.
The baby’s hearing is almost fully developed too. If your baby is a girl, at this point in her life her ovaries have more than 6 million eggs.
As the bones continue to harden and the muscles become stronger, your baby becomes more active. Movements are felt more often, but the baby sleeps up to 20 hours a day.
The baby may become more active when Mom wishes to sleep, lie down, or relax. You may notice that loud noises can startle your baby during other hours.
Pregnancy Week 19 Tips
The middle of the pregnancy term is approaching, and your baby’s ears and hearing are much more developed.
It’s important to try to keep yourself in calm, quiet situations, as loud noises can upset your unborn baby. This is also a great time for your partner and other family members to start talking to the baby.
Get the baby familiar with their voices, as well as yours. Many people like to play soothing music (such as jazz or classical) to keep their baby calm and happy.
Next is pregnancy at 20 weeks.
Photo credit: Myra Gutierrez 19 weeks pregnant, ultrasound