How your baby’s growingThis is a busy time for your baby’s growth. Your baby lays down fat under its skin for warmth and energy. It has also been practising breathing movements, in and out. How your body’s changingYou may feel the baby elbow or kick you! | PREGNANCY TIP: Start your baby’s photo album now
Ask to have a copy of the picture of your baby from your scans. You may need to pay for this, so take some money with you to your scan appointment. | |
|
You may notice dark spots on pale skin and white patches on dark skin. This is called ‘pigmentation’. The marks usually disappear a few months after the birth. Stretch marks are common in pregnancy, and there’s little you can do to avoid them. Creams that claim to work on stretch marks are applied to the external layer of skin, but it is the layer underneath this which stretches. You can, however, take care not to put on too much weight by eating a healthy balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. How you might be feeling You may feel a bit clumsy and forgetful – it’s natural in pregnancy – those hormones again! How to have a healthy pregnancyKeep up with those pelvic floor exercises. They‘ll make a big difference during and after the birth. You may need to check the fitting for your bra again. Things to doYou’ll usually have another ultrasound scan between weeks 18 to 21. Your midwife will give you form MATB1 around this time. It confirms your estimated due date. If you work, you’ll need to give this form to your employer so you can claim leave and pay due to you.
|