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Pregnancy week 13
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOU
In the second trimester women often regain energy, now that much of the arduous work of organ development is complete.
As you enter your second trimester, your nausea should be gone. (If you had to stop taking prenatal vitamins during this time, you should begin to take them again as soon as possible.)
You may feel absolutely wonderful. You aren't yet subject to the physical discomforts that may appear in the later weeks of pregnancy. You may finally feel ready to reveal your secret to the world.
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY
Measuring in at seven centimetres crown to rump or nine centimetres in total length, your baby-to-be will have doubled in weight from last week to between one and one-and-one-half ounces. Your baby will spend the rest of the pregnancy concentrating on growing and becoming strong enough to live outside the uterus. His or her intestines have now moved from outside the body to inside the abdomen. Vocal cords are developing. Your foetus has also developed many reflexes and will squirm around if your abdomen is prodded.
HEALTHY EATING
You will start to feel tired as your blood sugar level falls, so try to eat something sensible every three to four hours. The best form of energy comes from low-fat carbohydrates, such as wholemeal pasta, rice or bread. Combine these with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Avoid too many high-sugar foods as these release energy instantly but leave you craving more.
FACT OF THE WEEK
You may want to start thinking about Maternal Serum Alpha-fetoprotein screening. This blood test is commonly referred to as the ‘AFP’ test and is generally performed between weeks 15 and 18. Abnormal MSAFP levels are associated with genetic conditions, birth defects, retardation and late-pregnancy complications. Usually, if a woman has abnormally high or low levels, a follow-up ultrasound and amniocentesis may be recommended for a more definitive diagnosis. This test is safe, however, it does occasionally produce false results. While just 50 in every 1,000 women will get high results only one or two of those women will end up having a baby with a defect. For most women, normal test results can often indicate a healthy pregnancy and may be a relief after any first trimester anxiety.
Find out what to expect in week 14 of your pregnancy.
For a list of all the pregnancy week by week articles click here
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