The child
Your baby measures about 9.4 inches (24 cm) from head to foot and weighs about 10.2 ounces (290 gm) at the start of the week—and about 12.7 ounces (360 grams) at the end of the week. Your baby is moving freely in the amniotic fluid and you may feel kicks high up in your belly and all the way down to your pubic bone. Your baby’s first stool, known as meconium, starts to form in the intestines. Sensory organs are developing rapidly, and the taste buds are fully developed. Your baby starts to react to pain.
Mother
You’ve reached the halfway mark in your pregnancy! Now you can feel your uterus close to your navel. Your breasts may start leaking colostrum, baby’s first meal.
Pay attention to how you sit and lie down, but also how you lift things. Your back is under a lot of strain, so take care of it!
Your pelvis is becoming more flexible due to the pregnancy hormones. If you experience significant discomfort, there are special belts that “fix” the pelvis in place when you walk and stand up. Ask your health care provider where you can find one. You could also book an appointment with a physiotherapist for exercise-alleviating tips and advice if you have problems with your pelvis.
If you’re exercising and working out, now is the time to modify your routine so that it is suitable for your pregnancy.
