Your Baby's Development
Your baby is now covered with a white, waxy substance called
vernix caseosa, which helps prevent delicate skin from becoming
chapped or scratched.
Premature
babies may be covered in this cheesy coating at delivery.
Your baby is still tiny, but this week brings the development of
brown fat, which will help keep your baby warm after birth. During
the last trimester, your baby will add more layers of fat for
warmth and protection.
Your Body
Your constant concern for your baby's health may give way to
reassurance if you feel your baby's first movements, which
often happens between weeks 18 and 20. These first movements are
known as quickening, and they may feel like butterflies in your
stomach or a growling stomach. Later in your pregnancy, you'll
feel kicks, punches, and possibly hiccups! Each baby has different
movement patterns, but if you're concerned or if the movements
have decreased in frequency or intensity, talk to your doctor.
Many women wonder around this time whether having
sex
will hurt their developing baby, and the answer is no. Sex is
considered safe at all stages of pregnancy, as long as your
pregnancy is normal. But that doesn't necessarily mean
you're going to want to have it. Many expectant women find that
their desire for sex fluctuates during the various stages of
pregnancy, depending on their fatigue, growing size, anxiousness
over the birth, and a host of other body changes. Keep the lines of
communication with your partner
open as these issues come up. Even though you may both be
preoccupied with the baby, it's also important to have some
"together time."
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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