What to Expect When 19 Weeks Pregnant

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If you’re 19 weeks pregnant, you’ve reached an exciting milestone! You’re nearly halfway through your pregnancy. At 19 weeks, your baby is continuing to grow and develop rapidly. Read on to learn what changes are happening with your baby and what symptoms and developments you can expect as you approach the halfway mark of your pregnancy.

Key Takeaways When 19 Weeks Pregnant:

  • Your baby is around the size of a mango and weighs nearly 8 ounces. Their senses are developing quickly.
  • Common pregnancy symptoms at this stage include back pain, trouble sleeping, leg cramps, and increased vaginal discharge.
  • Your uterus is about the size of a soccer ball now and you may start feeling baby move!
  • Schedule an anatomy ultrasound, glucose screening test, and discuss genetic testing options with your doctor.
  • Focus on nutrition, exercise, and rest. Drink plenty of water and eat small, frequent meals.
  • Plan ahead for maternity leave and make adjustments to your lifestyle to accommodate your growing body.

Changes and Symptoms in Week 19 of Pregnancy

Your Growing Baby

At 19 weeks pregnant, your baby is developing rapidly and taking on more human-like features. Here’s what’s going on with your little one at this stage:

  • Size: Your baby is around 6 inches long from crown to rump and weighs approximately 8 ounces, about the size of a large mango.
  • Appearance: Their arms, legs, fingers, and toes are well-defined. Baby has developed eyebrows, eyelashes, fingernails and toenails. Their skin is covered in a waxy coating called vernix caseosa that protects their skin.
  • Organs: All vital organs – including the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys and liver – are fully formed and starting to function. Your baby’s heart pumps about 25 quarts of blood per day.
  • Senses: Your baby’s senses are developing quickly. They can hear noises like your heartbeat, voice, music, and digestive sounds. The eyes can detect light filtering in through the womb. Taste buds are forming on the tongue and your baby may be able to detect simple tastes like sweet and sour in the amniotic fluid.
  • Movement: You may start feeling slight flutters and rolls as baby begins to move around more. This is sometimes called quickening. At this stage, you likely won’t feel distinct kicks or punches yet.
  • Sleep cycles: Your baby sleeps and wakes on regular cycles and may be more active at certain times of day as they develop circadian rhythms.

Common Pregnancy Symptoms at 19 Weeks

As your body continues to adapt to pregnancy, you may experience these common symptoms at 19 weeks:

  • Backache from shifting posture and extra weight in front.
  • Increased vaginal discharge.
  • Leg cramps, particularly at night. Stretch muscles gently before bed.
  • Occasional headaches or dizziness as blood volume increases.
  • Heartburn or indigestion. Eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy foods.
  • Nasal congestion and occasional nosebleeds due to increased blood flow.
  • Trouble sleeping due to discomfort and frequent urination. Try pillows for support.
  • Itching belly. Moisturize skin with lotions and oils to prevent stretch marks.
  • Mild swelling of feet and ankles. Prop up legs to reduce swelling.
  • Fatigue or shortness of breath as your body works harder. Listen to your body’s limits.

If any symptoms seem abnormal or severe, contact your doctor right away. Most common complaints are easily managed with lifestyle adjustments, over-the-counter remedies, and your doctor’s guidance.

Body Changes in Week 19

You’ll notice some significant bodily changes as you near the halfway mark of pregnancy:

  • Weight gain: You may have gained around 10 pounds by this point. Expect to gain 1-2 pounds per week going forward. Eat healthy and stay active.
  • Uterus size: Your uterus has risen to around the size of a soccer ball and can be felt several inches above your belly button.
  • Visible bump: Your baby bump is likely obvious now. Maternity clothes will fit more comfortably.
  • Changing shape: As your belly expands, your center of gravity shifts forward. Stand tall and avoid high heels to reduce back strain.
  • Skin changes: You may develop stretch marks, a dark line down the abdomen, or notice mask of pregnancy symptoms like melasma or acne. Moisturize skin regularly.
  • Increased blood volume: Your blood volume has increased up to 50% to supply oxygen and nutrients to your baby. This causes changes like swollen veins, nosebleeds or headaches.

Your To-Do List for Week 19 of Pregnancy

Schedule Important Appointments

  • Anatomy ultrasound: This detailed scan checks baby’s growth and development. It may be done between 18-20 weeks.
  • Glucose screening: This blood test screens for gestational diabetes, usually done around 24-28 weeks. Your doctor may recommend an earlier screening based on risk factors.
  • Genetic testing: Discuss options like amniocentesis or cell-free DNA tests to detect chromosomal conditions, if desired. Tests are optional and have risks.
  • Childbirth classes: Look into signing up for birthing, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes which often book up. Online options are also available.
  • Hospital pre-registration: Contact the hospital or birthing center to pre-register and confirm they accept your insurance. This smoothes the admission process.
  • Interview pediatricians: Start researching pediatricians and schedule meet-and-greet appointments to find one you’re comfortable with.

Lifestyle Tips and Adjustments

As your pregnancy progresses, be mindful of making adjustments to support your changing body:

  • Continue exercising as you’re able, but reduce intensity and avoid high-impact activities. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are great options.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, about 10 8-oz cups per day. Eat small, frequent meals to aid digestion.
  • Get adequate rest. Take breaks during the day. Consider a pregnancy pillow for sleep support.
  • Avoid lying flat on your back, which can compress major blood vessels after 16 weeks. Lie on your left side instead.
  • Create a calming bedtime routine. Unwind with activities like reading, baths, or guided meditation before bed.
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes as your belly grows. A belly support band may help reduce back strain.
  • Practice good posture and bending at the knees to pick items up from the floor. Avoid heavy lifting and twisting movements.
  • Make your home pregnancy-friendly by decluttering walkways, installing grab bars and night lights, and preparing your nursery space.
  • Review finances and make a budget for baby expenses. Plan your maternity leave and any necessary work accommodations.

Nutrition Tips for Week 19

Nutrition is crucial for you and your growing baby. Here are some tips for eating healthy in week 19:

  • Increase protein intake: Choose foods like eggs, lean meat, beans, nuts and dairy products. Protein supports your baby’s development.
  • Eat iron-rich foods: Great sources include red meat, spinach, lentils and fortified cereal. Iron carries oxygen to your baby.
  • Get plenty of Vitamin C: Tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli and citrus fruits help absorb iron. Pair them with iron-rich meals.
  • Include fiber: Fiber helps prevent constipation. Choose whole grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds.
  • Calcium for bones: Yogurt, milk, cheese, kale and fortified orange juice provide bone-building calcium.
  • Load up on folic acid: Spinach, asparagus, peas, beans and fortified foods maintain healthy cells.
  • Stay hydrated: Water supports increased blood volume. Coconut water provides electrolytes.
  • Limit junk food: Avoid large amounts of sweets, processed snacks and sugary drinks.

Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of unprocessed whole foods for optimal nutrition. Discuss prenatal vitamins with your doctor.

Week 19 Pregnancy FAQ

Still have questions about what to expect when 19 weeks pregnant? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Is it normal not to feel pregnant at 19 weeks?

It’s common not to “feel” pregnant yet, especially with a first baby. Your uterus is still relatively small and low at 19 weeks. Many women don’t “pop” until after 20 weeks. Between your uterus expanding and baby moving more, pregnancy will likely feel more noticeable soon.

What if I’m not showing at 19 weeks?

Don’t worry if your bump seems small. Factors like your body type, shape, and muscle tone affect when and how much you show. The average pregnant woman starts obviously showing between 18-22 weeks. Give it time! Eating well and exercising can also delay an obvious bump. As long as your doctor says your baby is growing on track, that’s what matters.

How big is my baby at 19 weeks?

At 19 weeks, your baby is around 6 inches long from head to rump (crown to bottom) and weighs nearly 8 ounces. They are about the size of a large mango. Their legs are more developed than arms right now!

When can I feel the baby move at 19 weeks?

You may start to feel slight fluttering motions by 19 weeks as your baby begins to twist, kick, and punch! This sensation is called quickening. Many women don’t feel distinct movements until 20-22 weeks with a first pregnancy. Drink cold water and lie quietly to better notice early subtle movements.

What tests should I expect at 19 weeks pregnant?

Your regular prenatal checkup will include measuring your belly, checking your weight and blood pressure, listening to the baby’s heartbeat, and discussing any questions. You may have bloodwork, glucose screening, an anatomy ultrasound, genetic testing, or other tests based on your doctor’s recommendations between 18-22 weeks.

The Takeaway

When you’re 19 weeks pregnant, you’re nearing the halfway point! Your baby is developing quickly and your body is changing. Focus on nutrition, rest, exercise, and making lifestyle adjustments to support a healthy pregnancy. Schedule an anatomy ultrasound and pre-registration. You may feel first flutters and have an obvious baby bump soon. Keep an open dialog with your doctor and prepare yourself for an exciting second half of pregnancy!