Ultimate Guide for 17 to 20 Weeks Pregnant
When we are talking about weeks 17 or the 20th week, then you should know that your baby has already undergone immense growth and development, has increased in height and weight, and is yet to grow more. There are certain facts that are necessary to be known, especially for the new mothers, about the condition of their health and that of their children in these weeks. This is because, if the mother-to-be is not aware of the changes she will be developing in her body during these weeks of her pregnancy or about the possible symptoms she might be facing, then it will be difficult for her to take care of herself and to care for her growing child.
The 17th Week of Pregnancy:
What happens to your baby?
Your baby is now 7.75 inches long and its metabolism has started by now as it is accumulating fat and has increased in weight. This fat in the baby’s body is forming the heat necessary for proper metabolism. The baby has developed proper circulatory, urinary, and respiratory systems by this week and the lungs will start exhaling the amniotic sac. Now in the 17th week, the baby’s heartbeat increases, and you will feel the baby’s rolling and movements strongly.
What happens to the mom-to-be?
Indigestion and Gastrointestinal disorders:
In the 17th week, it is common to experience problems of indigestions that may lead to other gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, a burning sensation in your digestive tract, indigestion, and nausea that may sometimes be accompanied by vomiting, and related discomforts. In some cases, it has also been found that during this phase of pregnancy, women experience gastric issues along with constipation and these things occur in your body because your body is going through a lot of changes, and most importantly, developing a human being inside of you. If you continue to experience these gastrointestinal disorders for a long time and for several times, you can refer to antacids and digestive enzymes or you can consult your physician about this issue.
Pigmentation in your skin:
Melasma is a kind of skin pigmentation that is a very common symptom during this phase of pregnancy, characterized by the occurrence of brownish to black spots on your skin. Recent studies are now revealing that during this time of pregnancy, your body is going through immense hormonal changes that may cause the black or brownish pigmentations in your skin. If you feel uncomfortable, just use a wide hat, sunglasses or put on natural sunscreen if you go out in the sun during this week of pregnancy. You can also consult a dermatologist if you feel it to be necessary.
Sciatic nerve pain:
Sciatic nerve pain is a kind of nerve pain that is very usual to experience during this stage of pregnancy. The sciatic nerve is one of the largest nerves in your body. During pregnancy, you might feel pain in your legs or the feet, because of the pressure exerted by your growing baby on the nerve. This pain can be treated if you remain on one side that does not hurt while you sleep or rest or you can consult your concerned physician.
What should the mother do?
As you are likely to get nerve pains or back pains during this week, it is preferable to put on flats, rather than wearing high heels or stilettos. Try to wear comfortable wears and avoid tight-fitting clothes.
As your baby is growing inside of you think of baby names and go for pediatric shopping. To ease the pains and discomforts that you are going through now, make slots for a thorough prenatal massage or a body spa that will help you to relax and feel comfortable.
The 18th Week of Pregnancy:
What happens to your baby?
In this week, you will feel the baby’s movements prominently- its yawn, stretch, facial expressions, frowns and kicking. The baby is growing rapidly, and it is developing taste buds on its tongues. Now the baby can also insert its thumbs inside its mouth and will suck the thumb. Its eyes and retina have also developed enough and now your baby can effectively sense the bright light if it falls on your growing belly. It is now sensitive to sounds also.
What happens to the mom-to-be?
In this week, the mother undergoes a lot of symptoms and physiological changes such as:
Carpal tunnel syndrome: This is a condition that occurs usually during this week of your pregnancy, characterized by tingling or a feeling of numbness in your arms or fingers. This occurs because of the compression of the nerves in the wrist. So it is advisable, that during this time of pregnancy, avoid working with computers for long hours. If you feel that this condition is troubling you, it is recommended that you should consult your health care expert.
Body aches and pains: Body pains are very common during this phase of pregnancy because your uterus is gradually growing, and so is your belly. This exerts much pressure on your pelvic bones that causes body pains. If you think that the body pain is severely hurting, hot or cold compresses can be a relief option, or you can go for a relaxing body massage. Perform recommended free-hand exercises and yoga or if you want better relief, you should consult your health care expert.
Skin changes and itching: Recent studies and experiments are revealing that skin problems and sensations of itching have become increasingly common among women during this week of their pregnancy. To prevent itchy skin, apply a gentle and natural moisturizer and avoid extreme hot baths or direct exposure to the sun for long hours. Wear comfortable clothes and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes.
There are some other symptoms apart from the above-mentioned ones. Such as:
- Gastric problems and heartburns
- Increase in the frequency of urination
- Oral and dental problems such as swelling and pain in gums
What should the mother do?
According to recent studies it is very much recommended that this week you should see your dentist during this week of your pregnancy because, in this phase, your hormones are changing rapidly which might affect your dental health and cause gum problems.
Take childbirth classes during this time that will help you to know more about labor, delivery and what you need to do for safe and healthy childbirth, and what you should avoid doing to get rid of difficulties during delivery.
Have a healthy and balanced diet that is full of vitamins, minerals, and all the prenatal nutrition that is necessary for you at this stage. Consult a dietician to have a proper pregnancy diet and cut your extra body weight through healthy exercises.
You can also search for an expert pediatrician for your baby during this week.
The 19th Week Of Pregnancy:
What happens to your baby?
In the 19th week of your pregnancy, your baby is 9.25 inches in height and its weight has increased than before. Your baby is further developing its respiratory system as it is growing bronchioles inside its lungs and its skin is now showing redness due to the presence of blood vessels and its body is now covered with a protective covering known as vermix.
What happens to the mom-to-be?
During the 19th week of your pregnancy, you will experience the following symptoms:
- Increase in the urge to urinate
- Increase in weight
- Extreme tiredness
- Swelling and tenderness of breasts
- The dark line down your abdomen
- Trouble sleeping
- Round ligament pain
- Trouble sleeping
- hair problems
- nausea and vomiting
- headaches
- dizziness
What should the mother do?
Your baby is growing rapidly this week. So it is very important to take good care of yourself this week. Just take proper rest, have enough sleep, remain in a peaceful environment, and have a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle.
The 20th Week Of Pregnancy:
What happens to your baby?
Your baby is growing very fast and it is almost 10 inches long by now. It can hear and recognize your voice and your heartbeat and also the sounds outside your body. Your baby can now sleep and can be awakened by any outside sound or body movement.
What happens to the mom-to-be?
You are almost halfway through your pregnancy. Your uterus is gradually growing bigger along with your navel and will gain more weight during this week. In some cases, it is found that the mother might develop some breathing problems and some issues related to the thyroid gland or some bladder infections. If you start experiencing any of the symptoms, consult your physician at once.
What should the mother do?
This week, you should be a bit attentive about your posture. Keep your posture straight, do exercises and do not stand or sit for long hours. If you are facing major difficulties, consult your health care expert.
