13 week of pregnancy
The 13th week of pregnancy marks the beginning of the second trimester. At this time, the formation of all internal organs is completed, and the baby moves to a new stage in its development. The condition of the future mother gradually improves, there is a surge of strength and thirst for action. Not surprisingly, the second trimester is called the “honeymoon” of pregnancy — the time when a woman can fully enjoy her changed position.
Fetal development at 13 weeks of pregnancy
At 13 obstetric week of pregnancy, the baby is actively growing. The length of his body is 7-8 cm, and the weight is in the range from 20 to 25 g. During this period, the fetus actively moves in the mother’s womb, only to feel its movement at this time is quite problematic. Inexperienced future mothers often take active intestinal peristalsis, which has nothing to do with what is happening in the uterus, for the movements of the baby. You need to be patient and wait a bit – very soon the baby will declare itself with active jolts in the stomach and restless behavior.
All important organs of the fetus are already formed. The intestines are activated, the pancreas is activated, and digestive enzymes are produced. The kidneys, which are located on both sides of the spine, function intensively. It knocks a small heart, giving out 160-180 beats per minute.
Week 13 is a period of active development of the musculoskeletal system and fetal nerve connections. The kid learns to control his body, bend and straighten limbs, turn his head. He moves in the amniotic fluid almost constantly, taking breaks only to sleep.
At the end of 13 weeks, the baby learns to distinguish the smell and taste of amniotic fluid. Occasionally, he swallows amniotic fluid and frowns if he does not like him. In the future, the acquired skills will help the newborn quickly find her mother’s breast. It is believed that the primary colostrum in taste and smell is very similar to the amniotic fluid, which allows the baby to get comfortable in a new world.
Condition of a mom at 13 weeks of pregnancy
Starting from week 13, the nervous system of the woman goes into a state of arousal. Drowsiness, which has already become habitual, disappears, there is a surge of strength and a desire to live an active life. All changes will occur gradually, gaining momentum by the middle of the second trimester. After 24 weeks, the nervous system will again go into a phase of inhibition, and the thirst for activity will be replaced by the desire to spend as much time as possible alone with yourself.
Toxicosis is gradually losing ground. Nausea decreases, appetite increases, salivation decreases. Some women only at this time finally begin to gain weight, getting rid of the constant attacks of vomiting.
At the beginning of the second trimester, the uterus rises above the bosom. The tummy is still flat and invisible to others. The waistline is gradually smoothed out, and many women are seriously thinking about changing their wardrobe. It is still too early to switch to clothes of free cut, but you can already give up tight pants and purchase special underwear for expectant mothers.
The total weight gain for a period of 13 weeks is 1.5-2.5 kg. Weight gain is individual and largely depends on the severity of previous toxicosis. If the first trimester of pregnancy was accompanied by frequent vomiting and decreased appetite, weight gain may not yet be observed.
Discharges remain thick, transparent or milky, without a strong odor. The appearance of blood streaks and the more significant bleeding is not allowed. When these symptoms appear, you should immediately see a doctor.
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