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OB Education & Class Registration |
Boutique for Expectant Mothers |
Photo Tour
Pregnancy: 13-16 Weeks
Changes Your Body Will Experience
As you enter the 2nd trimester of your pregnancy, the uterus begins to expand and shift upward. Physical changes and sensations are more pronounced and a woman's newly rounded shape announces her pregnancy to the rest of the world. An increased level of estrogen circulating in the body at this time may produce more body cells that may produce skin blemishes. Some women experience nosebleeds related to this increase in hormones. Other women may notice a temporary darkening of the skin in the form of a line that appears from the navel to the pubic area. This is referred to as the "linea nigra."
- Decrease in urinary frequency
- Constipation
- Breast tenderness subsides
- Heartburn
- Slight whitish vaginal discharge called "leukorrhea" (This discharge should not cause itching or burning; if it does, call your doctor).
- Varicose veins and or hemorrhoids
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting subsides for most women
- Mild swelling of ankles and feet
Comfort Measures
Heartburn
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Eliminate fatty foods, chocolate, coffee, spearmint and peppermint gum and processed meats
- Never use over the counter medication or home remedies without your doctor's approval.
Constipation
- Increase fluids (water, juice)
- Increase walking or other exercise that has been approved by your doctor
- Eat dried fruit (raisins, prunes, and apricots)
- Never use stool softeners or laxatives without checking with your doctor first.
Ankle Swelling
- Elevate feet and legs whenever possible
- Drink lots of water
- Do ankle circles
- Do not stand or sit for long periods of time without changing your position frequently. Avoid crossing your legs.
Dealing with Fatigue
- Take short rest breaks during the day
- Eat balanced meals
- Get 1-2 more hours of sleep at night
Emotional Changes You May Experience
The steady weight gain pregnant women experience can cause a confusing array of emotions. One moment you're up because your outer self matches your inner sensations. The next moment you're down because you can't squeeze into a favorite outfit. It's important to realize weight gain is a normal part of pregnancy. Exercise can help offset feelings of awkwardness about your new shape and promote strength. Remember to eat healthy foods and do not skip meals, it's important for you and your baby's sake. It's normal to feel some apprehension as a new life grows inside of you. Concerns that the baby may not be perfect are very normal and common. If you feel overwhelmed with fearful thoughts and misgivings, consult your doctor or childbirth educator.
Be Alert to Warning Signs
Call your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Cramping and/or low back pain or ache
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe swelling of ankles, fingers or face
- Visual changes - seeing 'spots' or 'floaters'
- Excessive or sudden weight gain (more than 2-pounds/week)
- Difficulty accepting the pregnancy
- Disruptive marital conflict
- Physical or emotional abuse
How Is My Baby Growing?
By the end of your 4th month the baby is 4 inches long. Its sucking and swallowing reflexes are developed. Fingers and toes are well developed too. It even begins to get tooth buds; however, it can not survive outside the mother's uterus.
The OB Education department at Hoag Hospital is an excellent resource for information and pre-natal classes. Hoag's BabyLine, 949/764-BABY (2229) is a community service answered by registered nurses with expertise in pregnancy, infant care, childbirth and breastfeeding. Available 7 days a week from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the weekends. The nurse answers new and expectant parents' questions and directs callers to additional resources as needed.
OB Education is available to assist you with class enrollment. Call 949/764-5940 or e-mail OBEducation@hoaghospital.org.
Things to Do Now
Have you registered for your Prepared Childbirth classes?
Practice good posture and body mechanics. When lifting, keep your feet apart, tuck buttocks in and bend at the knees using your arms and legs to lift instead of your back.
Share the news of your pregnancy with friends and relatives.
Shop for maternity clothes
Make sure bra and shoes provide proper support.
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