Your Baby's Development
The amniotic fluid that has cushioned and supported your baby in
the uterus now serves another purpose. The intestines have
developed enough that small amounts of sugars can be absorbed from
the fluid that is swallowed and passed through the digestive system
to the large bowel. Almost all of your baby's nourishment,
however, still comes from you through the placenta.
Until now your baby's liver and spleen have been responsible
for the production of blood cells. But now the bone marrow spaces
are developed enough to contribute to blood cell formation as well,
and bone marrow will become the major site of blood cell production
in the third trimester and after birth. (The spleen will stop
producing blood cells by week 30, and the liver will stop a few
weeks before birth.)
Your Body
Is
exercise
safe during pregnancy? Exercise can be a great way to stay in shape
during pregnancy and can even keep some symptoms - such as varicose
veins, excessive weight gain, and backache - to a minimum. But
pregnancy is not the time to start training for a triathlon - going
slowly is the name of the game. Because ligaments become more
relaxed during pregnancy, you're at higher risk for injury, so
low- or non-impact exercise such as yoga, swimming, and walking are
your best bets. Talk to your health care provider before beginning
any exercise program while you're pregnant.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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