At this stage you are now three months down and at the end of your first trimester; your body is now adjusting to the second trimester of the pregnancy. In simpler terms, you have six more months of pregnancy to go. During this week, you’ll notice some of the symptoms are not as intense as the first few weeks. Nausea and vomiting are becoming less and if you are still experiencing the symptoms, don’t worry, It’s very normal. Some women have reported having the symptoms linger to the fourth and even fifth months.
Your baby at week 13
During the thirteenth week, your baby is growing at a slightly faster rate and is as large as the size of a lemon. That’s about 8cm. It has grown from an embryo to a fetus with bone formation developing in its arms and legs. As the fetus grows, the placenta is also growing to adjust to your baby's needs and it weighs an ounce. This should explain the cravings. The eyelids are still shut as the eyes keep developing, with the vocal cords also starting to form and the intestines shifting from the umbilical cord to the abdomen.
Your baby movements will start becoming more fluid and it can now be able to place its thumb to the mouth in a suckling position. The head is starting to become well balanced with the rest of the body too.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms may carry forward to this week, but the second trimester is the easiest period of pregnancy. These symptoms are;
● Dizziness
● Heartburn & indigestion
● Food cravings
● Less fatigue
● Constipation
● Increased visible veins
● Tender breasts
Exercise
With the advice of your health practitioner, you can carry out these light exercises;
● Walking
● Swimming
● Stretching
What can you do during this time to ensure your baby stays healthy?
Your health and that of your baby are very important for a safe pregnancy period and even after the baby is born. Here are some tips;
An Ultrasound Test
This is very important during the 11-14th week of pregnancy as it ensures your baby is checked for any signs of Down syndrome. Visit Jacaranda Maternity hospital for an ultrasound scan. Ultrasound offered at Umoja branch (Wallet Centre, opposite Shujaa Mall) and Kahawa West (Kamiti road, Kiamumbi, Chief’s stage) from Mon-Sun.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol intake may risk health issues for your unborn child such as low birth weight.
Less sugar intake
During this period, changes in hormones may lead to cravings for sugary foods. You can supplement your diet with fruits and healthy proteins to keep your blood sugars at stable levels throughout the day.
Blood Tests
These are extensive tests to ensure your baby is healthy and has no risks of any chromosomal abnormalities
You can visit our clinic at Jacaranda Maternity hospital - Kahawa West branch (Kamiti road, Kiamumbi, Chief’s stage). And Umoja branch (Wallet Centre, opposite Shujaa Mall).
During your visit, your history will be taken, vitals and physical examination, new ANC laboratory tests, dating ultrasound (it’s the best way to confirm your date of delivery), nutrition supplements like folic and iron supplements will be given to boost your blood levels and prevent some congenital abnormalities to the baby. The midwife will take you through the danger signs and birth plan. Urine test is done during every visit. HIV test is also done, and in case turns positive, counselling is offered and treatment began.