Welcome to the 13th week of pregnancy! It is around this time that many moms begin to experience the joys of the second trimester. Since the placenta has taken over hormone production, you may likely have a burst of energy. You are likely feeling better, and beginning to see that pregnant glow. The next few months will be all about growing- for both you and your baby!
What you may be experiencing
Reduced nausea and morning sickness make most moms-to-be very happy and energetic. You have likely begun to tell those closest to you, and may become obsessed with decorating and planning for the baby. This honeymoon period will likely last for several months- as you begin to nest. Now is a great time to start taking growth pictures- so that you can track your belly growth. You will be amazed at how different you may look from week to week.
Your Baby
Now that your little ones organs and systems are all in place, he/she is now set to grow and get stronger. The goal is to make it possible to live outside the uterus, and every day your baby gets stronger and better equipped for the tasks that lie ahead. Your baby is about 7 cm long and is beginning to flex muscles for later use. In fact, if you were able to poke your baby- they would squirm in response to being touched.
Concerns or points of interest
Around this time, your doctor may start discussing different prenatal screenings. One popular one is the Maternal Serum Alpha- Fetoprotein screen or MSAFP. This simple test can help look for abnormal protein levels present in the blood that could lead to birth defects or late pregnancy complications. A normal test result can help put you at ease, but a negative test result could add stress to your pregnancy- so do your research. There are a percentage of false positives however, so it is important to discuss your options with your doctor.