Pregnancy Calendar at Week 13

What's Happening with the Baby

Week 13 of pregnancy marks the completion of one-third of the journey for your baby. During this time, the fetus is growing rapidly, and the internal organs that were previously formed are developing further. At this stage, your little one is already about three inches long and weighs around one ounce. The baby's nourishment comes from the placenta, which weighs just a bit more than the baby—about 1.1 ounces.

At 13 weeks, the baby's head makes up one-third of its body, so there's no need to worry during the upcoming ultrasound. As time goes on, the body will start to take on more proportional dimensions. The baby is actively moving and shifting in the amniotic fluid, but mom can't feel these movements just yet.

The baby's facial muscles are working hard:

the baby sucks its thumb;
frowns;
yawns;
smiles.

The baby's hand movements are becoming more active. The baby can distinguish the taste and smell of the food mom eats and can hear everything happening in the surrounding environment. The face is starting to develop individual features.

The baby's heart is working excellently, pumping about six gallons of blood per day. The skin is still light in color, allowing you to see blood vessels and even internal organs through it. Blood cells are forming in the spleen and liver, and the pancreas is already producing insulin and storing it.

By the 13th week, the fetus's sexual organs become more distinct. In the female body, there are already about 2 million eggs, while boys have developed a prostate. Alongside the formation of internal organs, the skeleton is also keeping pace with development. At this stage, you can already see two clearly protruding ribs, and the development of small bones is underway. In the jaw, 20 baby teeth are set, which will start growing after birth.

What's Happening with Mom

At 13 weeks pregnant, moms experience much-anticipated relief—morning sickness has eased up, and the belly isn't yet big enough to be a bother. Most parameters have normalized, but some specific sensations still linger.

Changes in the Uterus

By the 13th week, the uterus has significantly increased in size. It now fills its physiological zone and even rises higher. The gynecologist carefully palpates the organ to measure the height of the uterine fundus. In centimeters, this measurement equals the number of weeks of pregnancy, so at 13 weeks, the height of the uterine fundus is 13 cm. The width of the organ is about 10 cm.

The organ is easy to palpate, especially in women with an asthenic body type. These established parameters are meticulously recorded in the pregnant woman's chart, as the doctor needs to monitor the increase in this measurement at each visit, indicating normal pregnancy development and fetal growth. The mom's belly also becomes noticeably larger—it becomes rounder and protrudes forward. If the abdominal muscles are well-developed, the belly is less noticeable.

Urge to Urinate

As the uterus grows larger each day, it puts pressure on the bladder, making you feel the need to go to the bathroom more often. Increased urination is also caused by hormonal changes, an increase in circulating blood volume, and the need for more fluids. If urination isn't accompanied by pain or burning, there's no need to worry—these are just side effects of pregnancy.

Lower Abdominal Pain

The 13th week of pregnancy is often associated with increased uterine tone. Usually, this condition doesn't last long, and the woman's state normalizes, but during this time, she may feel an unpleasant pulling sensation in the lower abdomen and aching pain. These discomforts are also triggered by the excessive growth of the uterus and the stretching of its tissues and ligaments. Discomfort can appear not only in the abdomen but also on the sides and in the lower back. In this case, there's no need to despair—mom needs to lie down and rest, change her body position at work, and take a walk. If there are any bloody discharges, it's recommended to see a doctor immediately.

Headache

Due to hormonal changes, a woman's health becomes unstable, and she becomes more susceptible to stress and fatigue. This can lead to headaches, weakness, drowsiness, and a lack of energy. If the headache is associated with symptoms of a cold or flu, it's necessary to consult a doctor.

Back Discomfort

Feeling some pulling sensations in your back is completely normal at 13 weeks pregnant. During this time, the uterus is growing, and the body produces the hormone relaxin, which softens the ligaments and tendons. The increased load on the back inevitably results in some discomfort. In this case, it's a good idea for the woman to get a light massage without too much pressure on the back to help relax the muscles. You should be concerned and see a doctor if you experience bleeding, severe cramps in the lower abdomen, a high fever, chills, or pain in the kidney area. These symptoms could indicate a miscarriage or urinary tract issues (such as pyelonephritis, nephritis, kidney stones, etc.).

Breast Sensations

At 13 weeks, there aren't many changes in the breasts compared to the previous weeks. The breasts still feel enlarged, sore, and sensitive to touch. Under the influence of hormonal changes, the breasts continue to prepare for lactation.

Swelling

Water retention in the body occurs due to hormonal changes. Additionally, the increased load on the kidneys plays a role, as the woman needs to drink more water to meet the needs of both herself and the baby.

Excessive Sweating

Increased sweating is also linked to imperfect water circulation in the body. The maternal body tries to get rid of water not only through frequent trips to the bathroom but also by expelling it through sweat glands. Women often suffer from this at night when the amount of sweat increases. Doctors recommend taking good care of your skin during this period to avoid heat rash, taking timely showers, and refraining from using cosmetic products like soap or shower gel. Instead, it's better to use herbal infusions.

Vaginal Discharge

The 13th week of pregnancy is associated with an increase in normal vaginal discharge. This is due to hormonal changes that affect mucus production and the renewal of the vaginal walls. The discharge usually has a sticky consistency, is mostly clear, but can sometimes be white.

No Unpleasant Odor

If the discharge changes its nature, develops a characteristic sour smell, changes color, or contains blood, it is necessary to see a doctor. If there is discomfort, burning, or itching, the doctor may suspect a vaginal infection, conduct the necessary tests, and prescribe safe treatment.

Shortness of Breath

Not all pregnant women experience shortness of breath, but some may suffer from it, especially if they have a large belly or are carrying multiples. There's nothing to worry about if the shortness of breath isn't accompanied by a feeling of suffocation or chest discomfort. In such cases, it's a good idea to see a general practitioner, and a consultation with a cardiologist might be necessary.

Hyperthermia

It's not uncommon for pregnant women to have a slight increase in body temperature, but it usually stays within the low-grade fever range. If there are no signs of a cold or other illnesses, and there are no back pains or lower abdominal cramps, there's no need to worry—the temperature will normalize after a while. However, if symptoms of a cold or other serious illnesses appear, it's important to visit a clinic.

Energy Boost and Increased Activity

Since the nausea has subsided and is no longer bothering her, and hormone levels are elevated but stable, a pregnant woman's condition significantly improves. The so-called "nesting syndrome" kicks in—mom starts looking at baby items, gets ideas for home improvements, and sets up the nursery. Many pregnant women at this stage are full of energy and vitality.

Sensitivity to Smells and Food

Morning sickness and heightened sensitivity to smells significantly decrease by the 13th week, and many women start feeling quite normal. The symptoms of morning sickness persist for those carrying twins, but they too will soon pass.

Increased Appetite

Usually, with the disappearance of morning sickness, women's appetites improve. Managing it can be challenging, but overeating is strictly forbidden. Eating for two is an outdated rule that only leads to weight gain and complications during childbirth. Not everyone manages to shed the extra weight after pregnancy. With a diet of 2500 calories, a woman can adequately meet her own needs and those of her baby. If you feel the urge to eat something, avoid fast-digesting carbs; it's better to have a vitamin-rich fruit or some nuts.

Skin and Hair Problems

Hormonal changes inevitably affect the condition of the skin and hair. Each woman experiences this differently – with either excessive dryness or oiliness of the sebaceous glands. In most cases, the secretion from the sebaceous glands increases, so during pregnancy, women often suffer from acne. You can manage this issue with regular acne treatments, so it's necessary to consult a dermatologist for safe medications to use during pregnancy.

Excessive Weight Gain

By the 13th week of pregnancy, a woman's weight typically increases by 11-15 pounds. Doctors monitor the weight and record it at each visit. If the mom exceeds the limit, the doctor will recommend "light" days, during which she should eat well but focus mainly on protein or fiber-rich foods. Weight can also be reduced by addressing swelling – the doctor will pay attention to this factor as well.

Development of Twins

Being pregnant with twins is a unique experience for moms. Some women still experience signs of morning sickness even at the 13th week, and mood swings become more frequent due to hormonal changes. Usually, these sensations subside at the beginning of the second trimester. Nevertheless, the babies in the womb are developing normally, and the morning sickness only affects the mom.

The little ones have developed internal organs that continue to grow and become more complex. The babies are slightly smaller than in a singleton pregnancy – around 7-7.2 cm. There's no need to worry – it's perfectly normal for twins to be a bit behind in size and weight – they'll catch up after birth.

During an ultrasound at this stage, it might be discovered that one fetus is larger than the other. If the difference is small, there's no need to worry – this is common, as one of the babies might be getting better nourishment from the placenta, but the other baby is still receiving enough nutrients for development. If the weight difference is significant, the doctor will thoroughly examine the situation and provide recommendations.

Medical Examination

Constant monitoring of pregnant women requires the mother to undergo a series of tests, an ultrasound screening, and visits to doctors during the 13th week.

Doctors

General Practitioner – conducts a general examination of the woman, identifies chronic diseases, and advises on medications that are safe for the baby;
Dentist – examines the oral cavity and, if necessary, schedules dental treatments;
ENT Specialist – detects acute or chronic infections that could complicate the pregnancy;
Cardiologist – assesses the condition of the cardiovascular system, as latent pathologies often manifest during pregnancy;
Endocrinologist – evaluates the woman's hormonal status and, if necessary, prescribes medications to correct hormonal imbalances.

Tests

Blood test;
Blood sugar level test;
Test for sexually transmitted diseases – syphilis, AIDS, etc.;
Determination of blood type and Rh factor;
Urine test (Nechiporenko method);
Genetic screening;
Swab for urogenital infections.

Procedures

Ultrasound – this is the first scheduled ultrasound examination after registration, and it is mandatory at this stage;
Amniocentesis – collection of amniotic fluid, performed based on indications for high-risk patients.

Pregnancy Challenges

By the 13th week, the embryo is already formed and actively growing, but there is still a risk of miscarriage if there are serious abnormalities in the development of the fetus or the mother's body.

Miscarriage

At this stage, the risk of miscarriage significantly decreases compared to earlier weeks, but moms shouldn't be too complacent – losing a baby can still happen at 13 weeks. Causes of late-term miscarriage include abdominal trauma, taking teratogenic medications, severe stress, alcohol consumption, drug use, and smoking. It's crucial to protect the expectant mother from these external factors to ensure she carries the baby to term successfully.

There are also internal factors that can lead to fetal rejection. These include the mother's infectious diseases, fetal developmental abnormalities, or improper uterine structure. If there are bloody discharges and severe lower abdominal pain, immediate medical attention is necessary. Miscarriage can also occur due to increased uterine tone. This is usually caused by a progesterone imbalance, so the doctor will monitor hormone levels and prescribe supportive therapy if needed.

Candidiasis

During pregnancy, hormonal changes significantly affect the vaginal microbiome. If Candida bacteria dominate and aren't kept in check by the normal flora, a pregnant woman is at risk for a yeast infection by the 13th week of pregnancy.

The condition is characterized by cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, itching and burning in the perineal area, and pain during urination. There's also a distinct sour milk odor. A lab test of a vaginal smear will confirm the diagnosis. The danger of a yeast infection is that it affects the mucous membrane, which can lead to tears in certain areas during childbirth. To prevent this, pregnant women should take preventive measures against yeast infections, and pay attention to their diet and hygiene.

Leaking Amniotic Fluid

Leaking amniotic fluid should not occur at any stage of pregnancy, but it often becomes an issue around the 13-week mark. The cause is usually an inflammatory process, but it can also result from cervical insufficiency, trauma, or abnormal uterine structure.

Women experiencing leaking amniotic fluid will notice significant amounts of clear discharge with a slightly sweet smell. Sometimes the fluid may be cloudy or mixed with blood. The presence of amniotic fluid can be confirmed with a special test available at the pharmacy.

In this case, you should immediately go to the clinic – with timely therapy, there's a chance to save the pregnancy, though you might need to spend some time in the hospital for monitoring.

Placental Abruption

At 13 weeks, placental abruption can occur, which is related to the direct development of the fetus and increases the risk of miscarriage and intrauterine death. When the placenta detaches from the uterine wall, it can be either partial or complete. As a result, the baby receives less oxygen and nutrients. With a minor abruption at 13 weeks, there's a good chance of saving the pregnancy if you seek medical help promptly.

The causes of placental abruption include fetal ischemia, high blood pressure, polyhydramnios, abdominal trauma, vasculitis, and other pathologies. Age is also a factor – abruption is most commonly diagnosed in older pregnant women. It's not hard to notice placental abruption – it presents with vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal pain, and sharp pain when pressing on the abdomen.

When placental abruption occurs at the 13th week, doctors strive to preserve the pregnancy since preterm delivery is not an option. However, if the mother's health indicators are normal, there is a chance to save the fetus. In such cases, the woman is hospitalized, prescribed bed rest, and given a series of medications. In some instances, the pregnancy is not maintained if there are specific medical indications.

What You Can and Can't Do

At the 13th week, new restrictions and limitations appear on what a woman shouldn't do, but there are also positive aspects – many familiar joys are now available. The end of the first trimester is significantly different from the initial weeks of pregnancy:

What an Expecting Mom CAN Do:

Eat a highly varied diet rich in fiber to avoid constipation;
Take evening walks to help with better sleep;

Take care of your skin by rubbing in oily mixtures to prevent stretch marks;
Monitor your weight by keeping a pregnancy journal;

Sign up for prenatal yoga – it will help strengthen your body;
Replace gym workouts with prenatal fitness;

Strictly follow hygiene rules – wash your hands, avoid petting animals, etc.;
Choose natural hypoallergenic cosmetics;

Perform work that doesn't pose a health risk to the baby, so if you're in a hazardous job, switch to lighter duties;
Pick comfortable shoes to avoid putting stress on your musculoskeletal system;

Get a full night's sleep of at least 8-9 hours;
Choose loose-fitting clothes that don't restrict movement;

Make sure to get special maternity underwear and buy the necessary sets;
Put a humidifier in the room to avoid dry mucous membranes;

Have occasional detox days if your weight exceeds the norm;
Adjust your drinking regimen to prevent swelling;

Maintain a sexual relationship with your partner if the doctor hasn't prohibited it;
Eat enough protein-rich foods, which are a source of energy for both mother and baby;

Do Kegel exercises to prepare for childbirth;
Sign up for swimming classes and swim;

Include seasonal products rich in vitamins and minerals in your diet;
Take preventive measures against hemorrhoids;

Learn safe and healthy ways to prepare food.

What an Expectant Mother Should NOT Do:

Engage in harmful habits like smoking or drinking alcohol;
Perform strength training at the gym, lift heavy weights, or do intense cardio exercises;

Be in crowded places to avoid catching airborne infections;
Have sex if there is a risk to the pregnancy;

Fly on an airplane if you have cardiovascular issues;
Exclude hard-to-digest foods and avoid raw products.

Drinking raw eggs, as there's a high risk of salmonella;
Undergoing X-ray examinations (except in extreme cases);

Trying new foods if you're prone to allergic reactions;
Going to the sauna or steam room, as it can trigger a miscarriage;

Limiting contact with cats – carriers of toxoplasmosis;
Sleeping on your back, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the vena cava and impedes normal blood circulation;

Avoiding canned foods, smoked meats, and pickles;
Drinking coffee, soda, or very strong tea;

Spending too much time with gadgets that emit harmful radiation;
Not using household chemicals that could negatively affect the mother's health – leave the cleaning to dad or close family members;

Taking unfamiliar medications or those not approved by your doctor;
Using herbs, as some, like St. John's wort, can trigger a miscarriage;

Overeating, as the body will store nutrients, which can ultimately lead to obesity and difficult labor.

Proper Nutrition

Proper nutrition during pregnancy is extremely important. Since a woman experiences morning sickness around the 13th week, it opens up more opportunities to replenish the body with nutritious food. From now on, it is fully absorbed, so special attention is given to the diet.

At the 13th week of pregnancy, it is recommended to:

Stick to the main rule of meal planning – it should be comprehensive and balanced, which is crucial for the proper development of the fetus;
Since at 13 weeks the baby is sensitive to the composition of the amniotic fluid, it is not recommended to drastically change the diet. If you introduce new foods, do it gradually;
First and foremost, add foods that contain tocopherol, or vitamin E, to your diet;

If you have low hemoglobin, it's a good time to add beef, beets, buckwheat, and pomegranate to your meals;
If you crave something sweet, replace it with a healthy fruit or berry;
To avoid gaining excess weight, you don't need to increase your calorie intake significantly. Just add 300 calories to your usual diet to meet the needs of both you and your baby;

Skip the pastries, creams, cakes, and desserts – this kind of food doesn't benefit your body and can add extra pounds;
When including fruits in your diet, try to use fewer citrus fruits – they can trigger allergies and lay the foundation for them in your child's body;
Be cautious with smoked and salty foods – it's better to avoid them, but if you really crave something salty, you can have a few pieces after checking the quality of the product;

It's important to monitor your drinking habits – don't drink too much water to avoid swelling, but make sure your body gets enough fluids, as pure water is the basis for most chemical reactions in the body;
When choosing dishes, pay attention to perishable and risky foods – you shouldn't eat mushrooms, raw meat, sushi, and rolls during the 13th week of pregnancy, as they pose a potential risk of food poisoning;
Instead of frying, boil or stew your food, or steam it – this way, more nutrients are retained in the food;

Alcohol is strictly prohibited in the 13th week – it negatively affects fetal development, impacts the central nervous system, and heart rhythm;
Focus on protein-rich foods, as proteins are the main building blocks, while carbohydrates are useful for energy;
Don't skip dairy products – calcium is still essential in the 13th week for the baby's skeletal system development;

Maintain strict hygiene when preparing food, and avoid expired or spoiled items;
Eliminate foods that cause gas, as the growing uterus already puts pressure on the digestive organs, causing fermentation, and with such foods, women will suffer even more from bloating;
Cut out predatory fish like pike, halibut, and tuna from your diet, as they contain heavy metals;

Avoid fast food and reduce the number of trips to cafes or restaurants – home-cooked meals, prepared correctly, are the best option for a pregnant woman;
To add extra folic acid to your diet, eat bananas, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, and eggs.

Need for Vitamins and Minerals

Week 13 of pregnancy is a time of active growth for the baby, who already has all their organs formed. A whole range of vitamins and minerals is essential in sufficient quantities to help the proper development of all systems. Therefore, a woman should take the vitamins prescribed by her doctor and consume them through food.

Vitamin A (Retinol)

This fat-soluble vitamin needs to be taken during the second trimester as well. It strengthens the immune system of the mother's body and also promotes the growth of the fetus. Retinol is involved in the process of cell division, development of internal organs and the musculoskeletal system, and maintaining the normal functioning of the immune system. It's important for the health of the pregnant woman's vision, as vision often decreases during pregnancy. Signs of vitamin A deficiency include dizziness and weakness, peeling skin, disorientation, and fatigue.

At week 13, the mother's body should receive at least 350-370 mcg per day. You can get retinol from:

liver;
fish oil;
milk;
yogurt;
cheese;
carrots;
papaya;
pumpkin.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

At week 13, it's crucial for the development of many of the baby's systems and organs. It plays a role in the formation of the skin and hair, digestive organs, and the nervous system. A deficiency in riboflavin can cause newborns to suffer from loose stools and poor sleep. Riboflavin also plays a significant role in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It supports the functioning of the fetal cell membranes. While riboflavin is partially produced by the intestinal microflora, a daily intake of 1.6 mg is necessary, so it must also be consumed through food. Riboflavin can be found in:

fish;
dairy products;
meat;
eggs;
yeast.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

This element is a water-soluble vitamin and an active participant in the metabolic processes of both the mother and the baby. Niacin plays a key role in energy metabolism. It also helps maintain normal cholesterol levels in the blood. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to impaired functioning of the fetal central nervous system, and children may later suffer from memory problems and digestive disorders. The daily requirement for this vitamin at this stage is 18 mg. You can get it by consuming:

buckwheat;
beans;
lentils;
apples;
carrots;
liver;
potatoes.

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

It's important to start taking folic acid early on, but by the second trimester, the mother's folic acid levels should be within the normal range. If this hasn't happened by the 13th week, the doctor will extend the course of vitamin therapy. Vitamin B9 plays a crucial role in the formation of the fetal neural tube. Even though this formation is almost complete by the 13th week, the nervous system continues to develop and requires resources to build neurons responsible for impulse conduction.

A deficiency of folic acid in the mother's body can lead to congenital defects, growth retardation, and premature birth. However, it's also important not to exceed the recommended levels of vitamin B9, as this can result in excessive fetal weight, and a tendency towards allergies and asthma.

To ensure your baby doesn't suffer from neurological issues later on, pay close attention to folic acid intake during the 13th week. The daily requirement at this stage is about 400 mcg. Folic acid can be found in:

tomatoes;
walnuts;
sprouted wheat;
spinach;
lettuce;
cabbage;
broccoli;
green onions.

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)

This element is involved in the creation of the genetic material of the fetus. It ensures oxygen transport, facilitates cellular metabolism, and helps form red blood cells. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in preventing anemia in pregnant women. Cyanocobalamin significantly impacts the metabolism of proteins, nucleic acids, and amino acids. The recommended daily dosage is 1 mcg. Sources of Vitamin B12 include:

beef;
cottage cheese;
liver;
chicken;
sardines;
mackerel;
eggs;
herring;
cheese.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

One of the important elements at this stage. It helps strengthen the mother's immune system and prevents colds. Thanks to Vitamin C, the mother's body can fight off free radicals. For the baby, ascorbic acid is crucial in the formation of bones and tooth enamel, and it ensures an adequate amount of collagen in connective tissues, which is essential for the proper functioning of joints and ligaments. If the expectant mother starts experiencing bleeding from small blood vessels, it might be worth considering a Vitamin C deficiency. The recommended daily amount is 60 mg.

Ascorbic acid is found in the following foods:

black currants;
rose hips;
oranges;
gooseberries;
green onions;
cauliflower;
parsley.

Vitamin D

A very important element for the formation of the musculoskeletal system of the fetus, as it is responsible for the accumulation of phosphorus and calcium in the bones. It is produced in the mother's body when exposed to sunlight, but during pregnancy, this level is insufficient, and it is necessary to take it as part of multivitamins. A deficiency of vitamin D leads to serious consequences, with a daily requirement of 5 mcg. This affects the formation of the fetal skeleton, tooth enamel, as well as the overall growth and development of the baby. Vitamin D deficiency also causes problems for the pregnant woman – many women suffer from bacterial vaginosis due to a sharp decrease in immunity. You can get vitamin D from:

eggs;
butter;
caviar;
beef liver;
fish oil.

Vitamin E (tocopherol)

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin available in capsules and liquid form for easy intake during pregnancy. Some women experience a deficiency of this substance, so a doctor will prescribe a daily dosage of tocopherol. The role of vitamin E is extremely important – it participates in metabolic processes, is a powerful antioxidant, and protects blood elements. It influences the formation of the muscular system and the joint-ligament apparatus. A deficiency of vitamin E can trigger congenital pathologies of the cardiovascular, urinary, and nervous systems, as well as increase the risk of preeclampsia. The daily dosage of tocopherol is 10 mg per day. Increasing the dose of tocopherol is not recommended, as an overdose can negatively affect the fetus. Vitamin E should be taken until its deficiency in the body is replenished. You can get tocopherol from the following foods:

vegetable oil;
nuts;
shellfish, cod liver, caviar, and other seafood;
chicken eggs;
wheat bran;
pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

Iodine

Supports the normal functioning of the thyroid gland during pregnancy. You can get this element from sea fish, cod liver, seaweed, and iodized salt.

Iron

It plays a direct role in the production of hemoglobin, making it essential for preventing anemia in the mother and for the baby, it helps prevent hypoxia and intrauterine fetal pathologies. It can be found in beef liver, buckwheat, oatmeal, tomatoes, blueberries, and apples.

Calcium

It aids in the formation of bone tissue, muscles, teeth, and the tissues of internal organs. It's necessary for preventing musculoskeletal pathologies in the fetus. It improves blood clotting and maintains vascular tone. To replenish calcium stores, you should add gooseberries, black currants, spinach, parsley, dairy products, basil, dill, and eggs to your diet.

Magnesium

It is involved in the functioning of the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, is an active element in metabolic processes, and regulates blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It helps in the faster elimination of toxins from the body. Magnesium can be found in nuts, wheat seeds, cocoa, parsley greens, green peas, rye bread, and hard cheese.

Manganese

It is involved in blood formation, strengthens the immune system, and helps in the absorption of iron. It supports the development of the skeleton and soft tissues. Manganese can be obtained from beef, fish, grains, carrots, cabbage, bread, dates, and grapes.

Copper

An essential element for metabolic processes, it plays a role in the production of hemoglobin and synthesizes pigments responsible for the color of skin, eyes, and hair. Copper should be added for pregnant women and for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. This element aids the respiratory and immune systems and supports the function of endocrine glands. To replenish copper in the body, include liver, grains, seaweed, apples, raspberries, nuts, sunflower seeds, sprouted wheat, beets, and cucumbers in your diet.

Selenium

A powerful antioxidant necessary for combating free radicals. Selenium enhances the action of vitamin E, so it's recommended to take these elements together. Selenium aids in the production of thyroid hormones and boosts immunity. You can get selenium from organ meats, fish, liver, whole grain bread, eggs, asparagus, and garlic.

Phosphorus

Involved in the synthesis of proteins and essential amino acids. Along with calcium, it contributes to the formation of bones and joint elements and supports the cardiovascular and muscular systems. It is found in cabbage, carrots, berries, nuts, parsley, and garlic.

Zinc

Both mother and child need it for synthesizing proteins, nucleic acids, and protecting digestive organs. It strengthens the immune system and is essential for cell proliferation and brain function. Zinc can be found in poultry meat, egg yolks, seafood, cheese, spinach, and legumes.

Chromium

This element improves carbohydrate metabolism and stabilizes blood sugar levels, which is crucial for preventing gestational diabetes. It affects the endocrine, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. Chromium is found in corn, parsley, carrots, and leafy greens.

Helpful Tips

Get some books on pregnancy, visit forums and websites where you can ask pressing questions and get advice from nutritionists and lactation consultants. Keep an electronic pregnancy journal and jot down your feelings. These kinds of apps can help you organize a life that's now filled with new responsibilities and positive excitement.

Exercises for Expecting Moms

Physical activity during pregnancy can be beneficial for the expectant mother. If there are no contraindications and the doctor approves of sports, it's best to choose prenatal fitness. Under the guidance of a trainer, a woman will perform special exercises to enrich the blood with oxygen, train the cardiovascular system, and do stretching. Exercises with a fitness ball can help alleviate back pain. The trainer will determine the intensity of the workouts, usually reducing the normal load to 70%, and some exercises are completely eliminated, replaced with safer ones.

Discomforts During Pregnancy

Colds and Flu

At 13 weeks pregnant, colds and flu take on special significance. If a mom-to-be catches a severe cold, she could face a miscarriage or developmental issues for the baby. At the first signs of feeling unwell, it's important not to self-diagnose or self-medicate. A mild cold can become much more complicated with a weakened immune system, and to prevent this, you'll need a specialist's help. The doctor will choose only safe medications and recommend treatments. Drinking plenty of fluids, rinsing your nose and gargling, and getting plenty of rest can help prevent complications.

Gas and Bloating

Gas and bloating become quite common companions during the 13th week and beyond. As the uterus grows, the intestines become less mobile, their movements slow down a bit, causing food to stagnate and ferment, which leads to a large buildup of gas. The hormone progesterone also increases fermentation by relaxing the muscles of the abdominal wall and increasing fat deposits. To prevent bloating, you should cut out beans, fresh baked goods, pastries, creams, carbonated drinks, grapes, apples, and cabbage from your diet. While gas and bloating are not dangerous for the baby, they do cause significant discomfort for the pregnant woman, so it's worth following preventive measures.

Problems with Bowel Movements

When it comes to bowel movement issues, expectant mothers at 13 weeks may face both constipation and diarrhea. Constipation is more common, often due to sluggish intestinal peristalsis, prolonged digestion, and the accumulation of dense stool masses. It's tough to tackle this problem without a doctor, so women should consult their physician and adjust their diet by adding more fiber and fermented dairy products. Physical activity can also help – taking 20-30 minute walks daily can significantly improve bowel function. For prolonged constipation, the doctor may recommend safe micro-enemas, but it's important not to overuse them to avoid dependency.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be triggered by a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged sitting, poor blood circulation in the pelvic organs, and chronic constipation. All these factors are present during pregnancy, which is why women often encounter hemorrhoids as early as the 13th week. It's crucial to treat the condition as soon as possible while it's still in the early stages. When you see a doctor, they will recommend hemorrhoid medications and suggest incorporating more physical activity and changing your diet. If you had hemorrhoids before pregnancy, it's important to take steps early on to extend the remission period and avoid hospitalization.

Heartburn

During pregnancy, the hormonal balance in a woman's body changes. The production of progesterone increases – this hormone is necessary, among other things, to relax the muscular walls of the uterus and prevent hypertonicity, which can lead to miscarriage. However, this effect also has side effects – it relaxes not only the uterus but also the walls of the esophagus. Because of this, stomach contents can be pushed up into the upper parts of the esophagus, causing heartburn. Heartburn can be very bothersome for women, with some even unable to sleep as it usually occurs in the evening. This discomfort is not dangerous for the baby, and when consulting a doctor, a specialist can recommend safe medications that effectively help with heartburn.

Cystitis

If you experience pain while urinating and have a fever, along with lower back and abdominal pain, it might be cystitis. When urine stagnates, which can be caused by weakened bladder muscles during pregnancy, cystitis can easily develop. This condition requires immediate attention because an infection in the urinary tract can affect the mother's health. By consulting a doctor, you'll receive treatment recommendations and a list of safe medications to use during pregnancy. With modern medications, you can completely get rid of cystitis within a week.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins usually threaten women who are overweight and those prone to a sedentary lifestyle. Hormonal changes, swelling, a growing belly, and weight gain inevitably affect the blood vessels in the lower extremities. Because of this, they become excessively stretched, and the walls lose their former tone. This leads to fatigue in the legs even with minimal walking, a burning sensation, and the appearance of spider veins on the surface. It's crucial to take varicose veins seriously to prevent thrombophlebitis and treat the condition in time. You can consult a general practitioner, a vascular surgeon, or a phlebologist.

Checklist

Get the necessary tests done; you can get the list from your doctor.
Undergo genetic testing, especially if close relatives have hereditary diseases.

Have an ultrasound screening to ensure the healthy development of the fetus.
Register with an OB-GYN for pregnancy care and see the necessary specialists.

Address any chronic illnesses and aim for long-term remission.
Make a list of safe medications and discuss the details with each specialist.

Sign up for prenatal fitness classes – inactivity at 13 weeks is not advisable.
Start taking care of your skin to avoid stretch marks.

Swim in the pool and do aqua aerobics.
Vary your diet and include more foods rich in vitamin E, folic acid, iron, magnesium, and calcium.

Take short walks – it's great for training the blood vessels in your legs without overloading them. It's best to walk in the evenings before bed.
Ventilate your workspace and home, and use a humidifier if necessary.

Take more breaks, stay interested in your baby's development, and read up on pregnancy and baby care literature;
Get hypoallergenic cosmetics, use natural beauty products, and switch to herbal shower products;

Keep an eye on your weight, and get a bathroom scale for weekly weigh-ins;
Monitor your body to catch any signs of hemorrhoids – women often struggle with constipation at this stage;

Make sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep, and rest during the day if possible;
Buy a juicer and drink natural juices made from local produce – this will provide vitamins and minerals that are lost during cooking;

Wear comfortable underwear that doesn't restrict movement, and get a larger bra. It might also be helpful to buy maternity pants with knit inserts around the belly area.