Week 19

Pregnancy week by week

What happens when you are 19 weeks pregnant?

Your Baby

Your baby now weighs more than the placenta, but he doesn't have much body fat yet. His skin is now losing its translucent look and is beginning to develop the pigment which will determine his skin tone. His body is working very hard to grow strong and healthy, particularly his little heart – you'll no doubt have noticed when your midwife used the doppler to listen to your baby's heartbeat that it is much faster than your own!

Mum and Dad

Your baby's movements may start feeling more like real kicks now, and they might take you by surprise from time to time! It’s best not use your bump as a convenient coffee table or lap tray! You might even be able to identify a foot or an elbow, and your partner might enjoy feeling these movements as well - getting to bond with your baby and feel more involved.

Stay Healthy

Your larger bump could be causing you heartburn or indigestion by 19 weeks – talk to your midwife if this is really bothering you. The increase of hormones in your body could also leave you feeling a little breathless at times – this is usually harmless and normal in pregnancy, but do tell your GP if you are getting really out of breath. Some mums experience blurry vision at this stage, too, most likely because of water retention – this usually corrects itself after birth, but again, let your GP or your optician know if you are worried.