16 Weeks of pregnancy

It is normal that at the beginning of pregnancy the woman feels the need to have everything under control, but when she arrives at week 16 of pregnancy she realizes that some aspects are beyond her control. At this stage you will begin to question how you will adequately address motherhood and what

It is normal that at the beginning of pregnancy the woman feels the need to have everything under control, but when she arrives at week 16of pregnancy she realizes that some aspects are beyond her control.

At this stage you will begin to question how you will adequately address motherhood and what priorities you should have. The woman will be building a new identity and will be better adapted to this new situation.

Changes in the body of the pregnant woman

It is the 16th week of pregnancy the uterus has already reached a considerable size and it is natural that its growth compresses some blood vessels, hindering blood circulation. Some women may feel some discomfort such as more tired legs and swelling in the feet. In addition, striae may appear on the breasts, abdomen, lower back and on the thighs of the woman.

In week 16, a woman may experience changes throughout her body, including her external genitalia. The vagina will have more elasticity and more flow (white and thick), and due to these changes can develop vaginal infections by candids. As for the vulva, inflammation and increased pigmentation can occur, changing from a pinkish color to a bluish color.

Another change that women can experience at this stage is in their sexual appetite. The hormones will no longer be as upset as in the first months and the woman will feel less discomfort, so she will feel better in her relationship with the couple.

Health and emotions during pregnancy

Beginning at week 16 of pregnancy, the woman will feel more animated, more enthusiastic and less upset. Your emotions will be more controlled.

In the week 16 the woman will have to make the second visit to the gynecologist, where she will control the weight and blood pressure. It is a good time for the woman to share her doubts, fears and worries with the gynecologist, and thus scare away any problems she may have with the dream.

He may suggest to the woman to perform some tests to ensure that everything is still under control with her and her baby. First, a blood test or "triple test" to measure the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and hCG hormones and estriol, in the blood of the mother.

This stage is also a good time for the woman to return or start practicing some kind of sport or physical exercise, in moderation. They are very good to stimulate blood circulation, relieve lower back discomfort and to make the woman feel comfortable with her body and image. Swimming, for example, is one of the most recommended forms of exercise during pregnancy.

Dental cavities and oral sepsis are very frequent during pregnancy, due to the deficit of vitamins that leads to a retention of food between the teeth. That is why it is very important that oral hygiene is maintained.

Development and growth of the baby in pregnancy

In the week 16 of pregnancy, the fetus usually measures between 12 and 18 centimeters and weighs approximately 150 grams. Little by little, it looks more like a baby, since in the coming weeks both its weight and its height can double.

At this stage of pregnancy, your arms and feet begin to form. The legs are longer than the arms and move, and the nails of the feet begin to grow.

The brain of the embryo is in development, as well as its entire central nervous system. The embryo has a more straight head, although it still does not have hair. His eyelids are still closed and his heart pumps about 23 liters of blood a day.

Diet and feeding for pregnant women

It is very important that women acquire healthy eating habits at all stages of pregnancy. Especially from week 16 it is convenient that the woman begins a diet rich in essential nutrients for her body and that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. You should avoid too many calories.

In this stage where the embryo develops the extremities of its body, the role of calcium is very important since it will help the formation of the teeth, bones, besides favoring the woman's body. Surely, when you do the review with the gynecologist, he will prescribe a calcium supplement.

Iron is also important and should be in the pregnant woman's diet at this stage. You should eat more meats, legumes and nuts.

The constipation that usually bothers the pregnant woman at the beginning of this second trimester, can be combated with the consumption of at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Curiosities of week 16 of pregnancy

At 16 weeks of pregnancy, it is not advisable for women to wear heels or tight-fitting clothes, to avoid alterations in circulation.

The woman has the right to be absent from the workplace for the performance of examinations and medical tests.

The woman should avoid being exposed to paintings, if she wishes to set up her baby's room. It is important to know what paint you use and not be in contact with it for a long time because it can have serious effects on the fetus.

Very careful with infusions. Keep in mind that there are herbs that can be dangerous to the health of the fetus. They can cause spontaneous abortion. It is always best to consult with the doctor.

At this stage some women may feel the first movements of their baby.