Feel Your Baby’s Movements in 17 & Increase Your Appetite at 18 weeks pregnancy
When you are 17 weeks pregnant, your uterus should be about 2 inches below your belly button. You will gain more weight gradually. The uterus starts to change its shape and occupies more space thus putting more pressure on your intestines and pressing them to the sides.
Your baby can now hear even though the ears are not completely functional. This is because the brain is developing its parts that aid hearing and other senses. The baby is now capable of moving all its body parts and is also able to swallow and digest the amniotic fluid.
The baby also starts storing the fat from the amniotic fluid that will help in keeping it warm after the birth. Your baby now weighs about 5 ounces and is a little over 5 inches long.
As your little one is growing rapidly, the uterus will soon occupy your abdomen and pelvis but this will not cause any distress to you.
In this 17 weeks pregnant, there will be vaginal discharge which is normal in pregnant women. This is due to the increased estrogen production in the mother and a greater blood flow in the genital region. It is normally fine if the discharge is clear or milky and is odorless.
However if you doubt that the vaginal discharge is amniotic fluid you should consult your health care provider immediately. This might also be sometimes due to pre-term labor. Take necessary steps to avoid stress and exercise lightly and also maintain a healthy diet.
You are 18 weeks pregnant and in the middle of your second trimester of pregnancy. Most health care providers suggest that you undergo ultrasound scanning in this week to detect abnormalities, if any, in the baby. This will also help you in planning ahead for any interventions that may be necessary for the baby after its birth.
By now, your baby’s genitals are clearly distinguishable. The baby has also started producing Myelin – a substance essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. This will be produced until the ninth month. Your little one now weighs a little more than five ounces and may be between 5 and 6 inches long.
You can now probably feel the uterus just near the navel. It is now the size of a small melon and you can even feel it below your tummy. You might have gained around 15 pounds by now which is just normal. You may start getting a little bit uncomfortable because of the growing belly and find it difficult to get a good night sleep.
To overcome this, lie on your left side while you are sleeping as this will provide you more comfort and helps in preventing your veins form compression. Buying a pregnancy pillow is also suggestible as it supports your growing belly and the uterus.
You will be feeling hungrier because of the growing need of good nutrition. Make sure that your diet is nutritious and balanced as our baby will take all it needs from your reserves.
Author Bio:
Stephanie writes on health, pregnancy and parenting. Visit ThePregnancyZone.com for more information on pregnancy week by week and everything you want to know about getting 17 weeks pregnant and 18 weeks pregnant.
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