Week 19
Second TrimesterWhat happens to me?
Research has shown that participating in childbirth classes can lead to easier, less stressful births. If you have not looked into childbirth classes, it may be a good time to do so. Childbirth education is a good way of preparing yourself for labor and delivery.
There are many different types of classes available, and many different types of teachers. Call around to see if there are any classes in your area that are designed for birth mothers who are looking into adoption. If you don't find any, talk with the instructors of various classes or your Adoption Specialist to see which ones would be more sensitive to your situation.
Childbirth classes teach a variety of important things such as:
- Making pregnancy comfortable
- Labor support suggestions
- Breathing for labor
- Stages of labor
- Pain medications in labor
- Hospital policies
- Birth center policies
- Cesarean delivery
- Postpartum recovery
A mid-pregnancy ultrasound is often done sometime in the second trimester (usually between 18 and 22 weeks) to assess fetal growth and development, screen for certain birth defects, check the placenta and umbilical cord, and determine whether the gestational age is accurate. During this exam, you might see the baby kick, flex, reach, roll, or even suck its thumb.
If you are having a girl, the vagina, uterus, and Fallopian tubes are in place. If it is a boy, the genitals may be distinct and recognizable. In some cases, though, the male genitals may be hidden due to the baby's position, making it hard or impossible to determine the child's gender during any given exam.How much will I be showing?
You will be able to feel you uterus, which is about ˝ inch below your bellybutton. Your weight gain to this point should be around 8-14 pounds. What happens to baby?
The female fetus's ovaries now contain primitive egg cells. Lanugo (fine hairs) covers the baby's body and will remain until birth or soon after. Permanent teeth buds are forming behind the already formed milk teeth (baby teeth) buds. The baby’s chest moves up and down to mimic breathing, but is not taking in air, only amniotic fluid. How big is the baby?
The baby is approximately six inches long. The baby will increase in weight to 8 ounces this week. Tip of the Week
Allergies may get a little worse during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water and check with your doctor before taking any allergy medication. Want to figure out your due date? Click Here
Just found out you're pregnant? Don't forget to check out the previous Weeks!
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