Pregnancy week 19

Your baby’s development

At 19 weeks your baby is about the size of a tomato. This week a whitish, greasy coating called vernix begins to cover the body. It protects the skin during the months spent in amniotic fluid. Many of the senses are taking shape: the brain areas for taste, smell, touch, sight and hearing are developing. Your baby can taste the amniotic fluid by swallowing it. The arms and legs now look more in proportion, and the baby brings hands to the face and sometimes sucks a thumb. Hair and eyebrows become more visible. In girls the ovaries already hold millions of egg cells, and the uterus is formed. The baby is active, and you may feel some of these movements. Every baby has its own rhythm; measurements are averages. Development moves at its own pace in every pregnancy; your doctor interprets ultrasound measurements, and small differences are usually ordinary.

Changes in the mother

As you approach the middle of pregnancy, your body keeps asking for new things. Leg cramps, especially at night, are common. Gentle stretching during the day, drinking plenty of water and loosening the calf muscles before bed can bring relief. Skin changes may appear too: a dark line down the middle of the belly, patches on the face, or itching. These are mostly hormonal and tend to fade after birth. Sun protection can keep the patches from deepening, and moisturising the belly eases itching. Mild headaches can occur; rest and water are often enough. A severe headache that will not go away should be discussed with your doctor. You may have started to feel movements, which may not yet be regular. Setting aside a little time each day to talk to your baby or play music can be a pleasant habit.

To do this week

• Add the detailed ultrasound and second antenatal visit to your calendar.
• Use moisturiser and sunscreen for skin care.
• Do gentle stretches during the day for leg cramps.
• Start noting the times of day you feel movements.

Tip for the partner

A slow walk together does you both good.

Nutrition tip

Varying sources of calcium and vitamin D supports bone development.