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Key Pointers
- At 19 weeks pregnant, your baby is approximately 7 inches long and weighs around 7oz.
- Your baby’s limbs are in proportion and move with more control. They can also hear and distinguish between sweet and bitter tastes.
- Women may experience increased appetite and weight gain during this stage, but recommended weight gain rates may differ for those with different BMIs.
- Physical changes such as an enlarged belly, swollen and tender breasts, and stretch marks due to the growing uterus are common.
- It is important to seek medical attention if experiencing fever, pelvic pain, decreased urination or dark-colored urine, severe vomiting, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.
How Many Months Pregnant Are You At 19 Weeks?
At 19 weeks, you are in the second trimester of pregnancy and around five months pregnant.
Momjunction tells you how the baby grows and your body changes this week, what prenatal care you should take, what you should be concerned about at this time, and the tips to stay healthy.
How Big Is Your Baby At 19 Weeks?
The baby is about the size of an heirloom tomato at 19 weeks (1). Your baby measures around 7in (17.8cm) in length and weighs about 7oz (200g) (2) (3). So it might be some time until your baby bump starts to show.
Your baby starts to develop at a faster pace at this time.
Baby Development At 19 Weeks
In this week, the fetal development is most likely to progress as follows (4):
| Body parts | Development |
|---|---|
| Face | More defined (5) |
| Hair | Grows on the head, eyebrows, and eyelashes |
| Skin | Covered with a protective layer of coating called vernix caseosa |
| Cartilage | Is replaced by bone |
| Limbs | Arms and legs are in proportion and move with more control |
| Brain | Developing the senses for vision, smell, taste, touch, and sound |
| Ears | Your baby can hear now, which means maybe you can start singing to it! |
| Taste buds | Developed. Baby can feel the difference between sweet and bitter |
| Kidneys | Starts passing urine. Some urine (sterile) is collected in the amniotic fluid |
| Gender | An ultrasound can accurately determine the gender of the baby. If it’s a girl, the uterus is formed, and the ovaries contain six million eggs (6). |
By this gestational age, you are likely to feel the baby move for the first time. Read more about fetal movement next.
Quick factFetal Movement At 19 Weeks
The baby starts kicking and wiggling. The first-time moms may not feel these light movements, also called ‘quickening’, but women who’ve been pregnant before can recognize them (5).
Amy, a mother, shares her experience of feeling her baby’s movements during the 19th week of her pregnancy, “I can feel the baby move! It started a week or so ago with a sort of flippy feeling below my tummy, sort of like being on a roller coaster. Now I can feel decent kicks, but they are still quite muted. I like to describe them as being like a swimmer finishing a length, doing a somersault turn, and pushing off the wall. That push feeling is how I would describe the movements I’m feeling (i).”
Besides feeling the baby move, you may also experience a few other symptoms like you have been experiencing since the last couple of months.
What Are The Symptoms In The 19th Week Of Pregnancy?
Here are the common pregnancy symptoms you may experience during this week:
- Increased appetite: By this time, the symptoms of morning sickness come to an end, and there is an increase in appetite (7). Your cravings could increase too.
- Weight gain: An average weight gain of one to two pounds per week during the second trimester of pregnancy is considered safe, as recommended by the American Pregnancy Association (APA) (8). However, in case of women who have BMI less than 18.5 and greater than 24.9, the recommended weight gain rates usually range in between 0.5 to one pound.
| BMI | 18.5 (underweight) | 18.5 – 24.9 (normal weight) | 25 – 29.9 (overweight) | 30 and higher (obese) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight /week | 1 ½ pound | 1 pound | ⅔ pound | ½ pound |
- Frequent urination: The growing uterus starts putting pressure on the bladder and increases the frequency of urination.
- Round ligament pain: The pain is felt on either one side or both sides of the abdomen, as the growing uterus stretches the groin ligaments (9).
- Constipation: The progesterone hormone relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract during pregnancy, and the food remains in the tract for a longer time so that maximum nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. This makes you feel constipated.
- Dizziness: The growing uterus adds pressure to the blood vessels and reduces the blood flow to the brain, causing fatigue or lightheadedness. Sometimes, staying hungry for a long time can also contribute to lightheadedness. Make sure to eat properly and drink water to keep the body hydrated.
- Backache: With the growing uterus, the body’s center of gravity shifts, applying pressure on the lower back and causing a backache.
- Stuffy nose: The fluctuations in the hormonal levels increase blood flow to the mucous membranes, making them swell and soften. This results in stuffy nose and congestion and sometimes breathlessness.
- Leg cramps: Usually experienced more during the night, leg cramps are caused due to the compression of the blood vessels by the growing uterus.
- Heartburn: When the growing uterus pushes the stomach towards the diaphragm, the gastric fluids are pushed upward into the esophagus, causing heartburn.
- Blurred vision: This could happen due to the buildup of extra fluids in the eyes.
- Trouble sleeping: The backaches, hip pain, and leg cramps make sleeping difficult. Using a pillow below the stomach and between the legs can offer some relief.
- Hot flashes: Due to increased blood flow in the body, it is common to experience hot flashes.
Along with these symptoms, you will also experience several physical changes during this week.
Changes At 19 Weeks
Physical changes
- Enlarged belly
- Swollen and tender breasts, as the body gets ready for lactation.
- Linea nigra, the line that runs down from the belly button, gets darker due to pigmentation.
- Shinier and fuller hair
- Stretch marks, as the growing uterus stretches the skin.
Emotional changes
- Mood swings
- Some women experience weird dreams due to pregnancy fears and anticipation.
- Anxiety
Describing the emotional shifts she’s encountered, Amy reveals, “I like to think of myself as pretty easy-going, but the last couple of weeks have brought out some tears and crazy feelings. However, the people I talked to said it was completely justified.”
If you find any symptoms that are making you more uncomfortable, then call the doctor right away.
When To Call The Doctor?
If you notice any of the following symptoms, then make sure to call the doctor right away (10):
- Fever (100.4 degrees or higher)
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- Pelvic pain other than cramping
- Less urination or dark-colored urine
- Severe vomiting
- Feeling dizzy or losing consciousness
Otherwise, you can talk to your doctor during your scheduled prenatal visit for the week.
Quick factYour OB/GYN Visit
Your prenatal visit in this week may involve:
- Weight check
- Blood pressure
- Urine test to detect the presence of protein.
Ultrasound scan:
The scan will be done to ensure the proper growth of the baby and gender can also be determined at this time. An anomaly scan will be done during 19 to 20 weeks of pregnancy to identify any physical problems, such as spina bifidia, that the baby may have (11).
Amniocentesis: It is a diagnostic test wherein a small amount of the amniotic fluid sample is taken from the womb, using a needle. This test helps detect chromosomal problems (12).
Your obstetrician or midwife may suggest certain prenatal vitamins to be taken with your diet as supplements. As you enter the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage are reduced. But there is still a risk in some cases.
Is There Any Risk Of Miscarriage At 19 Weeks?
A miscarriage during the 19th week of pregnancy is rare, but a second-trimester pregnancy loss is a possibility (13).
- About 1 to 5% of pregnancy losses occur during the 13th and 19th week of gestation.
- Around 24% of pregnancy loss during the second trimester happens due to chromosomal abnormalities of the fetus. These abnormalities include monosomy X (Turner syndrome)iA genetic condition where one of the two x chromosomes in females is missing or underdeveloped , trisomies 13, 18, and 21, and sex chromosome polysomy.
- Structural abnormalities also cause pregnancy loss. It may result from neural tube defectsiCongenital disabilities of the brain, spine, or spinal cord caused when the neural tube doesn’t close completely , amniotic band syndromeiA condition where strands from a damaged amniotic sac lining get tangled around the fetus or parts of the fetus , uncontrolled maternal diabetes at the time of conception, or maternal exposure to teratogensiToxic substances a fetal exposure to which may cause congenital abnormalities in the baby .
- Infection like bacterial vaginosisiAn infection of the vagina due to bacterial overgrowth resulting in foul smell, discharge, and burning sensation while peeing can also lead to a miscarriage.
Other causes of miscarriage include:
- Maternal hormonal abnormalities
- Immunity issues
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Stress
Image: Shutterstock
- Erratic lifestyle
Next, we’ll tell you how to read the signs of a miscarriage during the 19th week.
Symptoms of Miscarriage At 19 Weeks
Intense pain along with cramps and bleeding in the abdominal area is an alarming sign of miscarriage. The intensity of bleeding can vary from one woman to other.
Being cautious and taking preventive measures can prevent a miscarriage.
How To Prevent Miscarriage In Week 19?
The only way to prevent the risk of miscarriage is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Preliminary pregnancy tests help detect any possible complications, and necessary treatments reduce the chances of a miscarriage.
Awareness of the herbal supplements that can and cannot be taken during this time can also reduce the risk of complications in your pregnancy. Read next to know more about the safe use of herbs when you are 19 weeks pregnant.
Are Herbs Safe During 19 Weeks Pregnancy?
The common belief is that herbs are safer than conventional medicine during pregnancy. However, this is not entirely true.
While some herbs may help, some can cause uterine contractions that lead to miscarriage, premature birth, or fetal injuries. Hence, it is always better to consult your doctor before using any herbal medications.
Here is a list of herbs that are unsafe during pregnancy (14):
- Saw Palmetto
- Dong Quai
- Goldenseal
- Ephedra
- Passion Flower
- Pay D’ Arco
- Yohimbe
- Black Cohosh
- Roman Chamomile
- Blue Cohosh
- Dandelion
- Chamomile (German)
- Nettles (Stinging Nettles)
- Pennyroyal
- Aloe
- Ginseng (American & Korean)
- Feverfew
- Senna
- Kava Kava
- Evening Primrose
Herbs that are considered safe to use during pregnancy include:
- Red raspberry leaves
- Peppermint leaf
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- Ginger root
- Oats and oat straw
- Slippery elm bark
Try these herbs only after consulting the doctor. Along with a healthy diet and herbal supplements you take, it is important to follow a few things that will keep you comfortable and safe at this time.
Tips To Stay Safe And Comfortable In The 19th Week
Here are a few tips to follow:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
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- Eat small meals at regular intervals.
- Avoid fatty and oily foods to prevent heartburn. Stick to a healthy lifestyle and eat home cooked food.
- Consume more fiber to reduce constipation. Include whole grain bread and cereals, nuts, cheese, milk, and egg in the diet.
- Avoid faulty postures as they can cause a backache.
- Quit smoking and drinking alcohol as it can affect the growth of the fetus.
- Engage in moderate physical activities like walking to boost your energy level.
- Stay calm and keep stress at bay.
- Your body needs enough rest so relax as much as you can.
- Do not take any medication without the doctor’s permission.
- Wear loose, breathable maternity clothes.
- Maintain oral hygiene to prevent any dental problems.
- Spend more time with family and friends if it makes you happy.
Most importantly, seek your partner’s support. Next, we tell you how the dad-to-be can help you.
Tips For Dad-To-Be
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Men should support their pregnant partners during this phase of life. Here’s what they can do:
- Help with household chores by sharing the responsibilities.
- Create a pleasant environment at home.
- Make sure to be present for all her prenatal visits.
- Plan for maternal shopping.
- Give her a good neck and foot massage to make her feel relaxed.
- Start inquiring about the best childbirth classes in your area.
- Start gathering labor and delivery or childbirth education materials to read together.
- Build a baby registry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is my baby’s position in my stomach at 19 weeks?
During the 19th week, a baby is positioned in the uterus with its head towards the chest and its feet towards the bottom of the uterus (15).
2. What should you avoid at 19 weeks pregnant?
The foods and activities to avoid are almost the same throughout the pregnancy. They include alcohol, smoking, raw meat, raw fish, raw eggs, improperly stored food, unpasteurized milk, caffeine, and foods containing raw ingredients. (15). Consult your doctor to know what other things to avoid based on your condition.
3. Are there any activities or exercises that should be avoided during the 19th week of pregnancy?
Experts advise pregnant women to avoid exercises and sports such as weightlifting, contact sports like martial arts and basketball, horse riding, hockey, gymnastics, wide squats and lunges, scuba diving, and high-altitude training (19). Consult your doctor about pregnancy-safe exercises suitable for your overall health and requirements.
4. How can I prepare for the physical and emotional changes that may occur during the second half of pregnancy?
Hormonal fluctuations can bring several emotional and physical changes. You can prepare yourselves for these changes by following some strategies. For instance, talk to your friend and family and vent out your feelings. Attend antenatal yoga classes to reduce stress and anxiety. Do gentle to moderate exercise to improve mood and general well-being. Religiously practice mindfulness techniques to focus on the positives and deal with stressful situations. Finally, follow calming techniques like journaling to cope with overwhelming emotional changes during pregnancy (20).
The 19th week of pregnancy brings several notable changes, such as your baby’s facial features will be more defined, the cartilage will be replaced by bone, and they will start passing urine. Your baby will also start kicking gradually. You will also experience an increased appetite, frequent urination, constipation, leg cramps, and other pregnancy symptoms. You may also notice that your hair is fuller, stretch marks are prominent, and your belly is enlarged. Drink adequate water, eat smaller meals, and stay calm to help your body relax. Call a doctor if you experience fever, severe vomiting, or pelvic pain.
Infographic: Pregnancy Symptoms At 19th Week Of Pregnancy
The advancement of pregnancy leads to several evident symptoms. The infographic below shares some of these pregnancy manifestations you may experience during the 19th week. Knowing these symptoms helps you take necessary precautions and make arrangements if needed.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: 19th Weeks Pregnant: Signs Symptoms Baby Development & Tips
Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team
The 19th week is the halfway mark in the second trimester of your beautiful pregnancy journey. Learn what to expect and how to prepare for the next stage with the following video.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. 19 weeks pregnant.https://onacraftyadventure.blogspot.com/2013/12/19-weeks-pregnant.html
References
- Week by Week Fetus Size Demonstrated by Fruits.
https://epaoa.org/week-by-week-fetus-size-demonstrated-by-fruits/ - Pregnancy Week 19.
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/19-weeks-pregnant/ - Fetal Development.
https://embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/Fetal_Development#Week_17_to_Week_20 - Stages of pregnancy.
https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/stages-pregnancy - Your Body throughout Pregnancy.
https://nationalpartnership.org/childbirthconnection/healthy-pregnancy/your-body-throughout-pregnancy/ - Second trimester: Discomforts.
https://www.allinahealth.org/health-conditions-and-treatments/health-library/patient-education/beginnings/second-trimester/whats-happening/discomforts - The Second Trimester.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-second-trimester - Pregnancy Weight Gain.
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/pregnancy-weight-gain/#:~:text=On%20a%20trimester%20basis%20in1%2D2%20pounds%20per%20week - Round ligament pain.
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/round-ligament-pain-during-pregnancy/ - Stomach Pain in Pregnancy.
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/abdominal-pain-during-pregnancy/ - Neural tube defects.
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/neural-tube-defect - Amniocentesis.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/amniocentesis - Second Trimester Pregnancy Loss.
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2007/1101/p1341.html - Herbs and pregnancy.
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/is-it-safe/herbs-and-pregnancy/ - Pregnancy week by week.
https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy-week-week - Foods to avoid when pregnant.
https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy/ - Week-by-week guide to pregnancy.
https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/2nd-trimester/week-19/ - 19 weeks pregnant: baby’s development, pelvic pain and free prescriptions
https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/im-pregnant/pregnancy-week-by-week/19-weeks-pregnant - Pregnancy and exercise
https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/im-pregnant/pregnancy-week-by-week/19-weeks-pregnant - Emotions during pregnancy
https://www.nct.org.uk/pregnancy/how-you-might-be-feeling/emotions-during-pregnancy
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