You and Your Baby at Week 19 of Your Pregnancy

How Big is Baby at 19 Weeks?

Your baby continues to grow very rapidly. The average foetus at this stage is about 15.3 cm long from crown to bottom, which is roughly the size of a beef tomato. So your baby has grown considerably since the early weeks of your pregnancy.

You can probably feel your baby moving around a lot now, and soon you’ll be able to recognise the movements he or she is making.

At 19 weeks, your baby’s even starting to grow adult teeth, which are lining up behind the first set of teeth. You will be giving birth in around 21 weeks’ time, and your baby is putting on weight in preparation for this, and now weighs around 240 grams.

Your Body at 19 Weeks

As the baby grows, your bump continues to expand, which can lead to the development of stretch marks. The uterus is roughly the size of a cantaloupe and can be felt just below the navel.

Breast changes continue as your body prepares for breastfeeding. The areolas around your nipples might darken due to hormonal changes, and the Montgomery glands (located in the areolas) become more prominent. You might also experience colostrum leaking from your breasts, which is a pre-milk substance.

You may experience changes in your skin. The ‘pregnancy glow’ is a result of increased blood flow and oil production.

Your body’s blood volume increases significantly to support the growing foetus, which can lead to lowered blood pressure and occasional dizziness.

Physical Changes to Your Body

At 19 weeks, your uterus continues to grow along with the baby, making your bump more pronounced.

Skin Changes

Many women experience skin changes during this stage. This can include the darkening of the areolas (the skin around the nipples), the appearance of stretch marks, or the emergence of a dark line down the centre of the abdomen, known as the linea nigra.

Increased Blood Volume

There is an increase in blood volume to support the growing foetus. This can sometimes lead to symptoms like dizziness or light-headedness, which is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.

Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 19

Insomnia: This is a very annoying symptom of pregnancy and can be helped by doing some gentle stretches and/or meditation before bed, sleeping on your side and using a pregnancy pillow for support.

Round Ligament Pain: As the uterus expands, you may experience sharp pains or a jabbing feeling in the sides of your bump. This is known as round ligament pain.

Leg Cramps: Cramps in the legs, particularly at night, are common due to the extra weight carried.

Backaches: The growing uterus also puts pressure on the back, leading to backaches.

Increased Appetite: You may find that your appetite increases around the 19th week.

Less Common Symptoms You May Experience

Nosebleeds and Nasal Stuffiness: Increased blood flow can cause the mucous membranes in your nose to swell, dry out, or bleed easily.

Dizziness: Due to changes in blood volume and blood pressure, some women may experience dizziness.

Varicose Veins: These can appear or worsen due to increased blood volume and pressure on the veins.

Emotional Changes

Emotional fluctuations are common during this stage of pregnancy. Feelings of excitement or anxiety about motherhood, changes in body image, and hormonal fluctuations can affect your emotional state.

Diet

Eating a balanced diet is crucial during pregnancy. Ensure you’re getting enough calcium, iron, and protein. Folic acid remains important throughout pregnancy, so continue to include it in your diet. This helps to prevent birth defects such as Spina Bifida.

Exercise

Regular exercise is beneficial, but it’s important to choose low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. Running, for example, will probably be extremely uncomfortable by now. This is because your back, knees and ankles are lacking their normal support due to the hormone “relaxin”, which is responsible for loosening up your ligaments.

Prenatal Care

Regular check-ups with your doctor or midwife are essential. These appointments monitor the health of both you and your baby.

Preparing for the New Arrival

Now is a good time to start planning for the baby’s arrival. This includes thinking about maternity leave and kitting out the nursery.

Bonding with Your Baby

Many mothers begin to feel more connected to their baby at this stage. Talking, singing, or playing music can be a way to bond with your unborn child.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so it’s crucial to consult with your doctor or midwife about any concerns or questions you may have.