You are now 19 weeks pregnant and you’re well into the second trimester. The excitement is palpable; you can’t wait to meet your little one.
This week brings more noticeable physical changes for you, as well as fascinating developments for your baby.
Here’s what to expect during this special stage.
Your Baby at 19 Weeks of Pregnancy
Now that you are 19 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing stronger. His five senses are developing, allowing him to catch a glimpse into what awaits him in the world outside.
At this stage, your baby measures about 13–15 centimetres and weighs between 200 and 260 grams—roughly the size of a mango.
This is what’s going on with your little one at 19 weeks:
- Sight: Although the eyelids are still fused, your baby can detect light and dark. A flashlight shone on your belly might even attract your baby’s attention, as they may turn toward the light on an ultrasound!
- Sounds: Your baby experiences ‘hearing’ by feeling vibrations transmitted through the skull to the inner ear. This means your voice is already a familiar and soothing sound.
- Baby fat: Brown fat, which helps with heat production after birth, starts forming at the base of the neck, behind the breastbone, and around the kidneys. This fat will play a crucial role in keeping your baby warm in the early days of life.
- Lungs development: Your baby’s lungs are continuing to develop with respiratory bronchioles forming and increased blood flow to the area. However, the lungs remain too immature to function independently.
- Hair growth: Delicate hair may start sprouting on your baby’s head as the brain and nervous system continue their rapid development.
Neural cells are becoming more specialised, aiding the refinement of your baby’s senses. This means that pretty soon they’ll be able to respond to the world outside; even if it’s with small kicks.
These remarkable changes make week 19 an exciting time to marvel at the life growing within you.
Your Body at 19 Weeks of Pregnancy
By now, your body is adapting significantly to support your growing baby.
Your uterus is about 1.3 centimetres below your belly button, giving your belly a distinctly pregnant profile.
While you are enjoying your pregnancy glow, more luscious hair and even more sexy time with the hubby, new less-than-ideal symptoms will start rearing their heads at week 19.
Here are some that you may need to prepare for:
- Pressure on veins: As your uterus expands, it puts pressure on the vena cava, the large vein responsible for returning blood to the heart. This can lead to varicose veins, haemorrhoids, or even swollen feet—especially in hot weather. To ease these symptoms, elevate your legs whenever possible and avoid lying flat on your back for extended periods.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded is common and can be linked to low blood pressure, known as hypotension. Supine hypotension, which occurs when lying down, can be alleviated by sleeping on your side instead of your back.
- Breast changes: Each of your breasts has likely increased in weight by around 180 grams as your body prepares for breastfeeding. Remember to wear a supportive bra to help carry the extra weight.
- Nasal congestion: Many pregnant women experience nasal congestion due to increased blood flow to mucous membranes. This can worsen during allergy season, leaving you feeling stuffy.
It is possible that you may experience nasal congestion well into your final trimester, resolving only a few months after childbirth. Talk to your doctor about pregnancy-safe decongestants.
You may also want to look for non-pharmaceutical means of managing your stuffy nose such as a humidifier and upping your fluid intake.
Take time to rest, stay hydrated, and focus on balanced nutrition to manage these changes.
The Gender Reveal
Now that you are 19 weeks pregnant, your baby’s sex organs would be fully developed enough to be seen on an ultrasound.
This signals a long-awaited time for many expectant mothers (especially first-time mums).
If you have an ultrasound this week, the technician might be able to tell whether you’re having a boy or a girl.
But don’t start planning that gender reveal party yet, mummies. There are a few caveats.
While ultrasounds are an effective and safe way to determine the sex of your baby, they are not always reliable.
If the baby is not in the right position, or if their umbilical cord or their leg is covering their sexual organs, the doctor may not be able to make the right conclusion.
This may be why many babies are mis-gendered during ultrasounds.
Imagine the parent’s surprise when a boy comes out when they’ve been expecting a girl all this time.
Signs of Danger
At the risk of clouding this good news with some bad, a warning is in order.
While your baby is safe from spontaneous miscarriage, there are other dangers to watch out for.
Alert your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding or loss of fluid
- Severe abdominal pain or swelling of the face and fingers
- A sudden change in your baby’s movement
- High fever (above 38.7°C), persistent vomiting, or blurred vision
- Painful urination or severe headaches
If you notice any of the above symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance.
These symptoms can be dangerous indications of many healthcare conditions that can endanger not only your baby but you as well.
They can include: problems with the placenta, premature labour, premature rupture of membranes, an incompetent cervix, dehydration, or non-pregnancy related illness like an infection.
Preparing for the Weeks Ahead
As you progress through your pregnancy, stay mindful of your body’s changes and your baby’s development.
This will help you feel confident and prepared for what is about to come.
Embrace this magical time with a sense of curiosity and joy—your baby is growing more every day.
And you’re getting closer to meeting the little one who will transform your world forever.
References
- Curtis, G. B., & Schuler, J. (2016). Your Pregnancy Week by Week (8th ed.). Hachette Books.
- Kaye, P. (2021). Your Pregnancy: Week by Week. SPCK Publishing.
- Riley, L. (2006). You and Your Pregnancy: Your Ultimate Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Meredith Books.
- Shanahan, M. K. (2002). Your Over-35 Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Da Capo Press.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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