Fourteenth week of Pregnancy
Development of the baby
By this week, your baby is completely developed and from now on will continue to grow both in weight and size. The baby’s organs as well as the body functions are matured by now. When compared to the heart beat of an adult, the baby’s heart rate is twice as fast. Ultrasonic pictures will show that your baby can now bend his fingers and can clench his fists by this week. Sex organs and the external genitalia are more formed and developed. Baby’s start to make facial expressions such as squinting or frowning and also can suck on their thumbs by this stage. Red blood cells start getting produced by the spleen and the liver starts making bile. Your baby now weights about 110 grams and is around 85 mm in length.
Changes in a mother’s body
Your waistline will gradually expand now as you begin to put on weight. From now on, both the internal as well as the external changes will happen at a fast pace. A slight bulge starts to show on your stomach as your uterus moves in the upward direction. The growth of your baby depends on what you eat as he gets all his nourishment from you. Do not even consider dieting during pregnancy as it could be harmful for your unborn baby. Your diet must contain the minerals and vitamins that are necessary as well as supplements of iron and calcium to improve your health.
For some women, a change in the breast size may be noticeable by now, however some women may not notice any changes in their breast size, although their breasts could be sensitive to touch or feel tender.
Your body may develop a few moles or you may start to develop dark spots on your skin during this time. You may find your energy levels increasing little by little and your morning sickness ebbing away every week. As your uterus stretches, so will the ligaments and the muscles that support it. This may sometimes result in having a pain in your lower abdomen also known as pregnancy aches.
What to expect
You will find that your appetite has increased and you now start eating for two. In order for your baby to be born healthy and without infections or any other complications, you must ensure that you maintain a healthy diet throughout your pregnancy. Eat a balanced diet and make sure you do not eat too much of anything. You could consult a dietitian and chalk out what you should or should not eat. Make sure to also have a good exercise regime and follow it religiously. A good diet and exercise will keep your body fit and also be beneficial in your recovery after you have delivered.
If you wish to travel, you can plan out a trip during this week as it is safer to travel during these weeks as compared to the previous weeks. Do remember to avoid lifting anything heavy and carry home cooked food whenever possible as it will reduce your chances of getting infected.