Pregnancy Calendar at Week 19
What's Happening with the Baby
At 19 weeks pregnant, your baby is experiencing a growth spurt. All of the internal organs and systems continue to develop. The baby's movements are no longer as random; they are becoming more coordinated. At this stage, the baby's position isn't fixed yet because they are still relatively small and have plenty of room to move around, so they often change positions. Your little one is starting to develop their own sleep and wake patterns, which you'll need to adjust to.
At 19 weeks, the baby weighs 270 grams and measures 22.1 cm in length (about the size of a mango).
The baby can now hold their head straight and start turning it from side to side. Their arms have grown enough that they can now bring their hands together above their head. The baby's skin is becoming pink (it used to be red) because the developing layer of subcutaneous fat is making the blood vessels less visible. However, the skin is still wrinkled due to the abundance of skin folds. Gradually, the layer of subcutaneous fat will increase, which will smooth out the folds over time.
The baby is starting to breathe slowly (about 40 breaths per minute).
In the baby's brain, special areas are forming that will be responsible for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch.
This week, the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, and sex glands (ovaries in girls and testes in boys) start producing hormones.
The spleen begins to function. It plays a role in blood formation along with the bone marrow. The spleen produces lymphocytes and monocytes, which protect the body from foreign substances.
What's Happening with Mom
No significant changes in the well-being of a woman occur at the 19th week of pregnancy.
First-time mothers who haven't felt the baby move before may start to feel it (this usually happens between the 18th and 21st weeks). Women who have given birth before might feel the first movements even earlier, starting from the 16th week.
Uterus
Thanks to its elasticity, by the 19th week from conception, the uterus continues to increase in size, starting to shift internal organs, and the baby's movements become more noticeable. Its weight during this period is approximately 300–330 grams. The fundus of the uterus is located 19 cm above the pubic symphysis, which is about 1–2 cm below the navel. But if your fundal height (FH) at this stage is slightly more or less, don't worry; it is considered normal if the fundus is 16–21 cm above the pubic symphysis (depending on the size of the baby).
Lower Back Pain
, hips, and buttocks may become somewhat stronger than before. The uterus continues to grow and puts more pressure on the nerves behind it, increasing the load on the abdominal muscles. Weight also continues to increase.
The muscles that support the uterus throughout the pregnancy are stretching: these are the ones that cause the most discomfort. To reduce discomfort and pain, it is recommended to do special exercises for pregnant women. In any case, if you feel severe pain, you should consult a doctor.
Abdomen
The question that many face when it comes to the 19th week of pregnancy is, "How should I sleep?" By this time, the belly is already noticeably rounded. So, here's the deal: it's strictly forbidden to sleep on your stomach – this position puts a lot of pressure on the uterus, which can lead to unwanted consequences.
It's also not advisable to lie on your back for long periods, as this can compress the vena cava and disrupt blood circulation. The best sleeping position is on your side. For a more comfortable sleep, you can get a special pregnancy pillow – with it, you'll be able to find comfortable positions for resting.
Overall, feeling discomfort in the abdominal area, especially at the end of the day or with sudden position changes, is normal. But if these sensations persist even after you've relaxed your muscles (and especially if they are accompanied by bloody discharge), you should immediately consult a doctor.
Discharge
At 19 weeks, vaginal discharge may increase – this is within the normal range. However, they should not change in consistency or smell. If the discharge turns green, yellow, or gray and has a strong, unpleasant odor (which could indicate an infection), you should see a doctor. If the discharge is cottage cheese-like, it could be a sign of candidiasis (yeast infection), which is common in pregnant women (it must be treated before delivery). But if you experience bloody discharge, especially if it's accompanied by lower abdominal pain, you should urgently contact emergency services.
Skin Pigmentation
Due to increased hormone levels, your skin becomes more sensitive to UV radiation. Additionally, there is a natural accumulation of pigment. Therefore, it is not recommended to sunbathe or use tanning beds. The dark vertical line that appears on your belly is also nothing to worry about. It will disappear some time after childbirth (usually, all such changes resolve within six months to a year after giving birth).
Excessive Redness (Hyperemia)
Due to the increased blood volume, you might experience more pronounced redness on your face, neck, chest area, and hands when exposed to temperature changes or stress. This is generally a normal occurrence (if we're talking about rosy cheeks and palms) and doesn't affect the baby or the mom. However, if you notice other symptoms (itching, blisters, weakness, nausea, swelling, tightness of the skin, etc.), you should seek medical help immediately, as these could be signs of an allergic reaction or other conditions.
Some pregnant women occasionally experience calf muscle cramps. It's important to inform the specialist overseeing your pregnancy about this. To quickly stop the cramps, it's recommended to lie down on a flat surface, stretch your legs out, and pull your toes towards you.
Medical Examination
Doctors
- Consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist if the pregnant woman has any complaints.
Tests
If you’re feeling well at this stage, have no complaints, and your doctor isn’t concerned, no new tests will be ordered. However, before your appointment, the specialist might ask you to undergo:
- A blood test to check hemoglobin levels and blood sugar content.
- A urine test to check for protein levels.
- The "Triple Test" if it wasn’t done at 16-18 weeks, it needs to be done now.
Examination
- Weight measurement
- Blood pressure measurement
- Measurement of the uterus, fundal height (FH)
Pregnancy Challenges
Missed Miscarriage
A missed miscarriage can happen at any point during pregnancy (though it's more common in the first trimester). That's why it's important not to skip your doctor's appointments. Remember, a missed miscarriage doesn't always result in a spontaneous abortion; sometimes the fetus remains in the womb, which can lead to blood infection and other complications.
Regular check-ups ensure that everything is going well with your baby. If you notice anything alarming or concerning, contact your doctor immediately. They will conduct an examination, listen to the heartbeat, and may even order an ultrasound. Warning signs include sharp abdominal pain, bloody discharge, worsening health, and fainting.
Possible Complications:
- Cystitis;
- Pyelonephritis;
- Placenta previa (complete, partial), low-lying placenta.
For the Expecting Mom: Do's and Don'ts
At 19 weeks, your baby's sensory organs are almost fully developed, and the formation of internal organs is nearing completion. This period requires special attention to the expecting mom's diet and a limitation on physical activities. You'll need to make some lifestyle adjustments.
What an Expecting Mom CAN Do:
- Listen to calming music and read books — these activities help relax and soothe, reducing anxiety;
- Socialize with family and friends — social interaction is comforting;
- Engage in prenatal gymnastics — physical activity enriches the body with oxygen, and muscles get prepared for future contractions and labor;
- Read specialized pregnancy literature — it's important to learn more about the birthing process, the postpartum period, and baby care;
- Have sex in a position safe for the baby — if there have been no previous miscarriages or preterm births;
- Apply special gels and creams on the belly to prevent stretch marks;
- Go swimming — physical activity ensures oxygenation of the body, improves blood circulation, and swimming is the safest sport for pregnant women;
- Do Kegel exercises — these exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which will be used during childbirth;
- Take walks in the park — fresh air is important for the proper development of the baby and improves the well-being of the expectant mother;
- Do yoga under the supervision of an instructor — there are special exercises for expectant mothers that reduce lower back strain and discomfort;
- Take prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor.
What Expectant Mothers SHOULD NOT Do:
- Go to the sauna or steam room, or the beach in hot weather — overheating increases blood flow to the uterus and can trigger premature labor;
- Wear high heels or platform shoes — blood can pool in the veins, causing swelling in the legs;
- Stand or sit for long periods — blood can pool in the veins of the pelvis and legs, leading to swelling and hemorrhoids;
- Engage in intense sports or heavy lifting — increased physical activity can heighten uterine tone, possibly leading to premature labor;
- Lift heavy objects — increased intra-abdominal pressure can provoke premature labor;
- Sleep on your stomach — compressing the uterus can increase its tone;
- Gain more than 400 grams (about 0.88 pounds) per week — excessive weight gain can lead to fetal oxygen deprivation;
- Eat a lot of sweets and pastries — this increases the risk of the baby developing congenital diabetes;
- Stick to a strict diet — a lack of protein, vitamins, and trace elements can lead to developmental issues in the fetus;
- Smoke or consume alcohol — nicotine and ethanol have a detrimental effect on the developing fetus, causing irreversible damage to the heart and nervous system;
- Come into contact with unvaccinated animals, especially cats — they can be a source of toxoplasmosis, an infection harmful to the fetus;
- Spend long periods in crowded public places — there's a high risk of catching colds, measles, or rubella;
- Stop taking medications and supplements unless recommended by a doctor.
Proper Nutrition
Balanced nutrition is the foundation for proper fetal development. At the 19th week, it's crucial to pay special attention to your diet. The fetus needs to receive an adequate amount of protein, vitamins, and trace elements. For the woman herself, a proper eating regimen is also important—due to the growing uterus, the stomach and intestines shift, affecting digestion.
At the 19th week of pregnancy, it is recommended to:
- Eat small portions 5-6 times a day — this reduces the load on the gallbladder and prevents bile stasis;
- Avoid fast food and sugary sodas — they irritate the stomach and burden the liver;
- Include dried apricots, figs, buckwheat, and beef in your daily diet — they contain iron and B vitamins, which are essential for preventing anemia;
- Consume dairy products daily — calcium is necessary for the development of the fetus's skeleton;
- Eat bananas and tomatoes, which are rich in potassium — potassium is needed for the proper functioning of the fetal heart;
- Limit the intake of peas, cabbage, and baked goods — these foods can cause increased gas and abdominal discomfort;
- Include meat and meat by-products in your diet — protein is essential for the proper development of the fetus's skin and muscles;
- Prepare meals by boiling, stewing, or steaming — fried foods disrupt digestion and cause heaviness in the stomach;
- Consume up to two liters of fluids per day, while ensuring that your legs do not swell.
Need for Vitamins and Minerals
Week 19 of pregnancy is a crucial period for the completion of the formation of the baby's vital organs and nervous system. The baby needs micronutrients and vitamins to ensure all organs develop properly. The baby gets these nutrients from the mother's body, so it's important for her to eat a balanced diet.
Most Important Vitamins:
Vitamin A (Retinol)
Ensures proper blood circulation in the placenta and is important for the formation of the baby's vision. It prevents vision problems and skin issues in the expectant mother. A deficiency can manifest as dry skin, a veil over the eyes, and blurry vision. Sources include liver of sea fish, eggs, butter, cottage cheese, carrots, and dried fruits. The required daily amount is 2500 IU.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine, Aneurin)
Participates in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is important for the proper functioning of the baby's heart and nervous system. A deficiency in the mother can cause weakness, irritability, bloating, and digestive issues. It can lead to delayed fetal development. It is primarily found in plant-based foods such as bread, beans, and spinach, with smaller amounts in milk and liver. Pregnant women need 1 mg of thiamine per day.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
It is essential for every metabolic process in the body. For the fetus, it is crucial for the formation of red blood cells and antibodies. A deficiency can be identified by the appearance of cracks on the lips, tongue swelling, facial dermatitis, and vision deterioration. Riboflavin can be found in liver, eggs, mushrooms, cottage cheese, milk, and buckwheat. Pregnant women need to get 2 mg per day.
Vitamin B3 (niacin, vitamin PP)
It is necessary for proper metabolism and enzyme formation. It ensures good blood supply to the placenta. You can get it from rye bread, beets, buckwheat, beef, and mango. A deficiency is indicated by bloating, diarrhea, brittle hair and nails. At the 19th week of pregnancy, 25 mg per day is required.
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)
It is essential for oxidative processes and oxygen saturation in the body. It prevents intrauterine hypoxia of the fetus. It can be obtained from caviar, yeast, eggs, milk, and greens. A deficiency manifests as dry skin, brittle hair and nails, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat. Women need 5 mg per day.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
It stimulates the blood formation of the fetus. For women, it reduces irritability, improves mood, and decreases the severity of toxicosis. A deficiency leads to depression, muscle cramps, and anemia. The required daily amount is 2.5 mg. It can be obtained from nuts, potatoes, citrus fruits, and carrots.
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
It's essential for the formation of nucleic acids and amino acids. At the 19th week of pregnancy, it ensures the proper functioning of the fetal nervous system. For the mother, it is needed for rapid cell regeneration. Deficiency can be identified by fatigue, irritability, trouble falling asleep, and poor appetite. Pregnant women need 400 mcg per day. It can be obtained from whole grain bread, yeast, liver, and eggs.
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
In the fetus, it is involved in the formation of red blood cells and DNA. For women, it regulates the nervous system, normalizes blood pressure, and reduces the risk of preeclampsia. The required daily amount is 4 mcg. It can be obtained from organ meats, egg yolk, sea fish, and dairy products. Deficiency manifests as numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes, and a burning sensation on the tongue.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
It plays a role in cell regeneration and ensures the proper absorption of iron and folic acid. It strengthens the immune system and prevents colds. It also strengthens blood vessels, reducing the risk of placental abruption and premature birth. Deficiency is indicated by dry skin, brittle hair and nails, and increased bleeding. The daily requirement is 75 mg. Pregnant women can get ascorbic acid from vegetables, fruits, and potatoes.
Vitamin D (Calciferol)
An essential component of bone tissue. It ensures the proper absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and helps prevent rickets in children. You can get it from sea fish, liver, eggs, and dairy products. Pregnant women need 400 IU per day. Deficiency in pregnant women is rare and manifests as increased bone fragility.
Vitamin E (tocopherol)
Protects cells from damage by free radicals and boosts the immune system. It's necessary for the formation of collagen and elastin, making the skin firm. It improves blood circulation in the placenta. The daily requirement is 10 IU. Deficiency in pregnant women is rare and manifests as muscle weakness and deteriorating skin condition. It can be obtained from organ meats and sea fish.
Vitamin H (biotin)
Regulates the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. It prevents excessive glucose accumulation, reducing the risk of developing diabetes in the fetus. Deficiency manifests as excessively oily or dry skin, dandruff, and hair loss. Pregnant women need 50 mcg per day. It can be obtained from liver, beans, and nuts.
Vitamin K (phylloquinone)
Responsible for normal blood clotting. It can be obtained from tomatoes, carrots, greens, and berries. The required daily amount is 65 mcg.
The most important trace elements:
Iron
Iron is a component of hemoglobin. It prevents the development of anemia in both the mother and the fetus. It reduces the risk of premature birth. The daily requirement is 3 mg. Expectant mothers get iron from meat, organ meats, apples, and buckwheat.
Iodine
An essential element for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland in both the mother and the fetus. Iodine deficiency is particularly dangerous for the baby, leading to miscarriage, developmental delays, and congenital cretinism. In women, it can cause goiter. The daily requirement is 300 mcg. It is found in sea fish and kelp.
Calcium
The main component of bone tissue. It is needed by both the mother and the baby. Sources include dairy products, green vegetables, nuts, and berries. Deficiency manifests as brittle nails and hair. The daily amount is 1000 mg.
Potassium
Supports the body's oxygen saturation and protects the fetus from intrauterine hypoxia. It regulates heart function and prevents swelling. Pregnant women get potassium from tomatoes, bananas, dried apricots, and greens. The daily amount is 5000 mg. Deficiency is rare but can manifest as a rapid heartbeat and irregular heartbeats.
Cobalt
Prevents the development of anemia and neurological disorders. It helps with falling asleep and improves mood. Deficiency can be identified by allergic skin rashes and depression. Pregnant women get cobalt from sea fish.
Silicon
Ensures proper development of the fetus's connective tissue—cartilage, tendons, skin. The required daily amount is 20 mg. Deficiency manifests as brittle nails, hair loss, and dry skin. It can be obtained from buckwheat, vegetables, and greens.
Magnesium
This element regulates the cardiovascular system and is part of some hormones. Expectant mothers can get it from seaweed, greens, cheese, nuts, and bread. Deficiency manifests as increased irritability, anxious thoughts, and trouble falling asleep. The required amount is 300 mg per day.
Manganese
The required amount is 2 mg per day. It is responsible for the proper development of the fetus's bone and blood cells. It is part of protective proteins—immunoglobulins. The daily requirement is 2 mg. It can be obtained from bread, buckwheat, and beans.
Copper
Participates in metabolism and the formation of hemoglobin. It is part of the pigments that color the skin and hair. Expectant mothers can get copper from beef liver, seaweed, buckwheat, potatoes, and fruits. Pregnant women need 1.5 mg per day.
Molybdenum
Pregnant women need 75 mcg per day. It prevents anemia in expectant mothers and fetal developmental defects. It can be obtained from greens and organ meats.
Sodium
Ensures proper fluid balance in the body and optimal heart function. The required amount is 1500 mg per day. A deficiency can lead to excessive fluid loss, which manifests as dry mouth and muscle cramps. Sodium can be obtained from table salt.
Selenium
Protects cells from damage. The daily amount is 35 mcg. Found in fish and nuts.
Chromium
The required amount is 25 mcg per day. Reduces the risk of developing congenital diabetes. Obtained from dairy products and grains. Deficiency is very rare.
Zinc
An important component of enzymes, hormones, and nucleic acids. Ensures proper development of the heart and nervous system of the fetus. Obtained from beef, lamb, egg yolks, and seeds. The daily amount is 15 mg.
Important! Choose a multivitamin complex based on the recommendation of your obstetrician-gynecologist.
Helpful Tips
Choose a school for expectant mothers where you'll get valuable knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They'll teach you how to care for and feed your newborn. You'll learn how to breathe properly during labor, take special positions, and even give yourself a massage. These skills will help reduce pain during contractions.
Exercises for Expecting Moms
Pregnancy is not a reason to give up physical activity (if you were actively engaged before) or an opportunity to become a health nut (if you didn't hit the gym before seeing those two long-awaited lines). But it's important to ensure that the exercise is manageable and beneficial, helping to get your blood flowing, relax, and tone up before childbirth.
Recommended activities include walking, static exercises, prenatal yoga, swimming, and pregnancy-specific programs. The following are off-limits:
- exercises involving the abdominal muscles
- jumping, sudden movements
- agility and balance exercises
- exercises performed while lying on your back.
Discomforts During Pregnancy
Heavy Discharge from the Genital Tract
Yellow or green discharge, as well as cottage cheese-like masses, are considered abnormal. These are often accompanied by itching. If you notice such discharge, you should see a gynecologist, as it could be a fungal or bacterial infection. It's also advisable to limit your intake of sweets and baked goods in your diet.
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain occurs due to the shift in the body's center of gravity caused by the growing uterus. The load on the spine increases, which is why the lower back muscles start to ache. This condition affects every pregnant woman, with varying levels of pain intensity. If the discomfort is mild, there's no need to see a doctor; just make sure to rest lying down during the day and do some exercises. However, if the pain is severe and worsening, you should consult a doctor to rule out a kidney infection.
Common Cold
Occurs in half of expectant mothers due to a weakened immune system. It manifests as malaise, a runny nose, a scratchy throat, and a mild cough. A mild cold can be treated at home with plenty of fluids and gargling with chamomile tea. If you develop a high fever, headache, or severe cough, you should see a doctor.
Lower Abdominal Pain
Mild, pulling discomfort isn't dangerous; it's related to muscle stretching due to the growth of the uterus. This condition occurs in every expectant mother. However, if the pain is severe, cramp-like, and accompanied by bloody discharge from the vagina, you should contact your doctor immediately, as it could be a sign of a possible miscarriage.
Vomiting
Morning sickness usually subsides early in pregnancy. If nausea and vomiting persist at the 19th week of pregnancy, it indicates a pathological condition known as preeclampsia. In addition to vomiting, it is characterized by headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs. If you notice these symptoms, you should consult a doctor. Preeclampsia occurs in 16% of pregnant women.
Extreme Fatigue, Malaise, Drowsiness
These are signs of iron-deficiency anemia. The growing fetus takes most of the vitamins and minerals from the mother's body. Anemia occurs in more than half of expectant mothers. If the diagnosis is confirmed by a blood test, iron supplements will be necessary.
Heartburn
It's caused by the stomach being pushed out of place by the growing uterus. It affects more than half of pregnant women. To alleviate the symptoms, you should adjust your diet—eat frequently in small portions, and include more cereals. For severe heartburn, the doctor may recommend antacid medications.
Constipation
A displaced intestine doesn't move stool regularly. Constipation is a common issue for half of all pregnant women. To avoid it, you should eat more frequently and in smaller portions. Your diet should include prunes, apples, and boiled beets. These foods contain fiber, which improves intestinal motility.
Checklist
- Get a urinalysis to rule out genitourinary infections and assess kidney function;
- Get a complete blood count to rule out anemia;
- Sign up for prenatal classes for future moms and dads;
- Measure your weight and track weekly gains;
- Measure your blood pressure daily;
- Count daily fetal movements;
- Read a book about pregnancy;
- Learn Kegel exercises;
- Get a stretch mark cream for your belly;
- Buy maternity dresses or overalls;
- Start wearing a support band;
- If you experience any health issues, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist.