Week 19 of Pregnancy

Key Takeaways at Week 19

• If your physician has suggested an amniocentesis, it will most likely be conducted within the following week (if not sooner). In this test, a doctor will use an ultrasound to guide a needle and draw a small quantity of amniotic fluid. This test is used to diagnose genetic diseases

• Your mid-pregnancy ultrasound (also known as an anatomy scan) should be done within the next week or two

• Remember, you should be sleeping on your side at this time to allow for optimal blood flow to the baby

• If you are in Week 19 of your pregnancy you are in the second trimester and in the fifth month

• 21 more weeks remaining in your pregnancy

Baby's Movement and Baby’s Development at Week 19

At 19 weeks, the baby is developing five senses. Nerve cells for the senses of taste, hearing, sight, and smell are forming in the baby's brain. The foetus has already learnt to suck and now can swallow. And, of course, the baby is always moving around!

Around this time, your baby starts to build brown fat, which will keep their body warm after they leave the comfort of your womb. Brown fat, like white fat, which is the most abundant in the body, stores energy. However, it takes up less space and performs a variety of functions, including controlling your metabolism and insulin levels. Brown fat is activated at chilly temperatures, allowing the body to burn calories (in the form of sugar and fat) before you feel cold.

The baby is getting ready for their first close-up. By week 19, adult teeth have begun to grow. The material that forms teeth forms at about week 6 of pregnancy. When a newborn is born, all 20 of their baby teeth and a portion of their permanent teeth will be tucked behind those nubby gums. The first baby tooth will emerge between the ages of 6 and 12 months, and it will fall out around the age of 6 years. (Because every child is unique, it's impossible to anticipate when yours will reach any of these milestones!)

A 19-week-old foetus has lots of room to move and float about. They are always on the go, much like a child! However, as a baby develops, their ability to adjust themselves becomes more restricted. During the final few weeks of your third trimester, your baby will begin to move into the delivery position.

There's nothing quite like feeling your baby kick for the first time! That particular moment, known as the quickening, generally occurs between weeks 16 and 22. If you haven't already felt any fluttering, you should by now! It will be some time before your partner or anybody else feels those kicks, so enjoy this bonding time with your baby.

• Baby Weight- Around 190 grammes to 240 grammes

• Baby Length- 6-7 inches long

• Baby Size- Comparable to a mango.

Pregnancy Symptoms and Body Changes This Week

During week 19, your body undergoes rapid changes. As your baby develops, so will you, and you may feel specific pregnancy symptoms throughout this period.

• A sore back or sciatica might cause discomfort at this period. You're fast developing, and the added weight and strained muscles might cause discomfort. Stretching and moderate motions may help. Consult your doctor to determine if yoga or Pilates is safe for you. Consider using a support cushion on your workplace chair as well
• Stretch marks may appear as your belly expands, but they are completely normal. Keep your skin moisturised to find some relief.
• Your sleep may be becoming interrupted. A few simple modifications like changing your sleep position may help
• Swelling in your nasal passages might result in a stuffy nose and bleeding. Saline nasal sprays and humidifiers might provide some relief
• Yeast infections are common during pregnancy, so consult your doctor about suggested treatments
• Your baby's hair is growing, and yours may be too. Hair loss reduces, and your hair may seem thicker
• Check for bleeding or swollen gums. Higher progesterone levels during pregnancy might harm your dental health and make you more prone to gingivitis
• If your bump wasn't obvious before, it is now. But keep in mind that every pregnant woman is unique, and first-time mothers may show a lot later than mothers who have had prior pregnancies

Body Changes This week

Sleeping may be difficult due to many factors, including your bump, leg cramps, and increased urine production. Try sleeping on your side, snuggling with a pillow, and making additional efforts to obtain the rest you need.

The skin on your growing tummy may be dry, tight, and irritated.

You might be having pregnancy brain. Pregnancy brain, often known as "mommy brain," is a genuine condition that may cause you to feel fuzzy and forgetful.

19-week ultrasound

Your mid-pregnancy ultrasound, which is coming up soon, will check almost every part of your baby's body, including the brain, spine, and heart, to ensure that everything is developing normally. It's wonderful to see everything up close! If you wish to know the baby's sex, the technician will most likely be able to tell you. Don't leave without asking for some scan prints to take home and show off.

Of course, scheduling an ultrasound isn't the only thing you should be doing around this time; you should also start looking for a paediatrician. Begin by asking relatives and friends for suggestions, and then schedule a few visits to speak with the staff. Ask a lot of questions to choose which doctor you are most comfortable with. It's important to pick someone you trust since you'll be seeing a lot of each other throughout the baby's first year.

Your Baby Bump at Week 19

At 19 weeks pregnant, weight gain may begin to bother you, since you've probably gained between 3 to 6 kg so far. This is quite typical. During a normal pregnancy, women should gain up to 2 kg in the first trimester, followed by half a kg each week in the second trimester. If your weight gain to date is more or less than that, see your doctor to determine if it is a reason for worry.

Tips for Week 19

Being 19 weeks pregnant is an important milestone for both you and your baby. Here's some additional professional advice on how to transition to this new stage while keeping you and your baby safe.

• Apply warm compresses to your tummy, relax when possible, and gently stretch using a cat/cow position to relieve round ligament discomfort. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort or finding it difficult to get through the day, see your doctor to rule out other reasons
• You're about halfway through your pregnancy, so you may be trying to get a lot done before the baby arrives. But racing around might cause dizziness or lightheadedness. If you feel fatigued or out of sorts, move carefully, particularly if you're standing up from a sitting or prone position. Everything will be done, so relax!
• Eating healthy throughout pregnancy is important for both you and your baby. Incorporate nutritious items into your meals, such as eggs, salmon, leafy greens, almonds, yoghurt and muesli
• Prenatal yoga is an excellent way to relieve discomfort from leg cramps, backaches, and hip difficulties. Don't attempt it without first seeing your doctor, and be sure to select a prenatal class with modified postures for pregnant women

Checklist for Week 19

• Keep up with regular prenatal care and discuss any concerns
• Begin interviewing paediatricians
• Test some possible strollers in person
• Pregnancy makes you more susceptible to the sun, so wear a helmet and sunscreen and avoid spending too much time in the sun
• Remember to get your prints when you undergo an ultrasound

Frequently Asked Questions on Week 19 of Pregnancy

1. How large does the uterus get during pregnancy?
   The uterus is constructed of elastic tissue that is intended to expand and develop with the baby. During pregnancy, the uterus develops from about the size of a lemon to the size of a watermelon. By 40 weeks, your uterus will contribute up to two pounds of your pregnancy weight gain—but it will shrink back to normal size within six weeks following birth.
2. What is the baby's position during 19 weeks of pregnancy?
   A 19-week-old embryo has lots of room to move and float about. They are always on the go, much like a child! However, as a baby develops, their ability to adjust themselves becomes more restricted. During the final few weeks of your third trimester, your baby will begin to move into the delivery position.