Overview of that week

Around this time, the baby’s movements are heightened and even visible from the outside. So, anyone who wants to get a feel of a baby kicking might not want to miss their chance on feeling a baby’s kick. 

It is also recommended that you keep track of your normal baby movements. As you are getting more and more forgetful and tired with each growing week, we recommend you to keep a diary where you can record these movements. 

Baby development

Premature babies born at the end of the second trimester have a high chance of survival if they receive the care and attention needed. The lungs of your baby have developed enough and are also making surfactant that will be able to sustain it outside the womb now. 

Although a baby born now would be fairly small compared to the normal babies, your baby has approximately grown to above a kilogram in weight. The baby will suck its thumb often. Most of the time you will find your baby that is 14 inches in height either sleeping or taking naps. 

Body changes and symptoms in mother

Weight Gain

Along with your baby, you are also adding weight every week. You will start to add about 400 grams every week. Make sure to talk with your doctor and ensure that you are gaining the right amount during this time of pregnancy.

Constipation

Are you drinking enough water and still having difficulty passing bowel? It is one of the most common and most persistent symptoms of pregnancy. It might have nothing to do with what you do and is caused by things beyond your control. A growing pregnancy belly can put pressure on your digestive tract causing a distress in your bowel movements. 

Sleep Disturbances

All the tossing and turning during the night might keep you wide awake. You probably wish you could just close your eyes and be able to fall asleep. But as you grow deeper into the pregnancy, your sleep will get more and more disturbed. Your body might ache and you might be sweatier than usual. 

Urinary incontinence

Did you have your peeing accident yet? Don’t get embarrassed if you leak a bit when you sneeze or cough or laugh. Your body is processing fluids faster. Also the muscles in your pelvic region have become weaker at the moment. Because of this, it might be difficult for you to control your urine. This might be more frequent if you are over 35 and have delivered a baby prior to this already. 

What should you do and don’t

• Use pregnancy pillows to support your leg during the night. Bend your knee and put your other knee on top of the pillow. You can use another pillow to support your bump.
• Focus on eating small meals throughout the day.
• To prevent urinary incontinence, reduce the amount of coffee. Also make sure that you perform kegels and other pelvic floor exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles. 
• Keep your bedroom cool and dark during the night. Use a humidifier if your nose is dry during the night. 
• Hydrate yourself throughout the day so that you are not dehydrated during the night. 
• Use supportive bras to avoid back aches caused by your growing breast. Use something that can also support your posture.