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 you should be concerned about at this time and the tips to stay healthy. Back to top
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). Your baby starts to develop at a faster pace at this time. Back to top
Baby Development At 19 Weeks
In this week, the baby is developing body parts as follows (4): By this week, you are likely to feel the baby move for the first time. Read more about fetal movement next. Back to top
Fetal 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). Besides feeling the baby move, you may also experience a few other symptoms like you have been experiencing since the last couple of months. Back to top
What Are The Symptoms In The 19th Week Of Pregnancy?
Here are the common pregnancy symptoms you may experience during this week: Along with these symptoms, you will also experience several physical changes during this week. Back to top
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 pregnancy fears and anticipation. Anxiety
If you find any symptoms that are making you more uncomfortable, then call the doctor right away. Back to top
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)
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. Back to top
Your 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). As you enter the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage are reduced. But there is still a risk in some cases. Back to top
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), trisomies 13, 18, and 21, and sex chromosome polysomy.
Structural abnormalities also cause pregnancy loss. It may result from neural tube defects, amniotic band syndrome, uncontrolled maternal diabetes at the time of conception, or maternal exposure to teratogens.
Infection like bacterial vaginosis can also lead to a miscarriage.
Other causes of miscarriage include:
Maternal hormonal abnormalities Immunity issues Sexually transmitted diseases Stress
Erratic lifestyle
Next, we’ll tell you how to read the signs of a miscarriage during the 19th week. Back to top
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. Back to top
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. Back to top
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
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. Back to top
Tips To Stay Safe And Comfortable In The 19th Week
Here are a few tips to follow:
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
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 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. Back to top
Tips For Dad-To-Be
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.
Read pregnancy books to know more about childbirth.
