19-weeks pregnant: baby development and diet tips

Baby development

There’s a whole lot of growing going on, so, your baby may be very active.  They aren’t necessarily on your time clock and can wake you up at night as they move around restlessly. Try to gently caress your belly and talk to them when they do, it may calm them down, and maybe you’ll both be able to get back to sleep. As they’re not very big, they have lots of room to move their arms and legs around, and to kick. Remember to pat the bump to show the baby that you are there!  

Your body

Though your body is doing its job almost on auto-pilot, there are still a few things that need to be taken care of externally. If you haven’t already done so, then discuss where you will deliver your baby with your doctor or midwife at your next check-up. There are a number of safe options you might consider including delivery at the nearest birthing hospital, delivery at a birthing centre, or some parents consider home-birth.   Ask your doctor or midwife where you can find more information to help make an informed decision that best suits your family, as well as any conditions of your pregnancy. 

Nutrition

Weight gain is an important part of pregnancy and supports the growth of your baby and the placenta. The ideal amount of weight gain during your pregnancy will depend on your pre-pregnancy weight for your height - your Body Mass Index (BMI). There are recommended targets for weight gain that help ensure good health for you and your baby. Gaining too much wait increases your risk of gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and having a large baby. Gaining too little weight can also increase the risk of certain problems such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and difficulty breastfeeding.  Speak to your doctor or midwife about maintaining healthy pregnancy weight gain and the recommended ranges for you. 

Tips

Hooray! You are at the midway point of your pregnancy. This is a great time to pat yourself on the back! You have achieved something tremendous after all. Of course, like all moms-to-be, you have a lot of unanswered questions – like, for example, what happens from this point on. That is why it is worth going to an prenatal class. Knowing what is going on takes away a lot of uncertainty. Talking to other mothers- and parents-to-be is also particularly helpful.  A prenatal class is also a good time to learn more about breastfeeding.   By thinking ahead during your pregnancy, you’ll build your confidence to breastfeed when your baby arrives.