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You’ve made it to half way through your pregnancy!
This month you’ll really start to feel your little one’s presence in your uterus. There’s plenty of room for them to squirm around in and you can bet they will be making the most of it!
Most importantly this month, look after yourself. With all that is going on inside, it’s good to be a bit selfish and rest more than you might feel you need to.
Your second trimester is commonly labelled the “feel good” trimester. Make the most of it and consider going on a relaxing holiday with your partner while you’re feeling relatively well and comfortable.
On an exciting note, your baby's reproductive organs and genitals are now fully developed. Your healthcare provider will be able to reveal whether you are having a little boy or girl. Don’t feel pressured to find out just yet. It’s a very personal decision and completely your own.
You at 5 months pregnant
You might be starting to show now. Your uterus has certainly grown, and you may have put on a few extra kilos – which is normal and very healthy.
At the end of this month your healthcare professional might suggest scheduling a 20 weeks scan. This ultrasound will analyse your baby's growth and development and confirm your due date.
As you progress through your pregnancy, you may experience some mid-pregnancy aches and pains. An achy abdomen or back, feeling dizzy, heartburn, constipation, and slightly swollen feet and ankles are all very common symptoms at this point in your pregnancy. However, consult your healthcare professional if any of your symptoms alarm you or seem excessive.
Your baby at 5 months pregnant
Your baby is now close to the length it will be at birth. Its growth spurt is slowing down and putting on fat will now be the reason for your baby’s growth.
This month your little one will also be testing out its reflexes. During an ultrasound you might see your baby yawn, stretch, suck, swallow or even get the hiccups.
Sounds will affect your baby now too. They can hear your voice, your heartbeat and music playing around you. Singing and talking to your baby from this point onwards can help to soothe them after childbirth when they recognise familiar sounds. Other loud sounds can even make them jump or shield their little ears.
Things to think about
If you’ve heard the term “pregnancy brain” now, it is time that you or others might notice it come into effect. Jotting down notes and helpful reminders is a good idea from here on out.
Most importantly, this month should be all about looking after you. In particular:
Dizziness and feeling faint is very common at five months pregnant. Sit or lie down if you feel lightheaded and don’t stand up too quickly.
If your back gets sore, watch your posture and again, lie down if you need to. If you’re still working, make sure you sit in an ergonomic chair, avoid standing for long periods of time and ALWAYS lift with your leg strength not your back.
If you haven’t already, consider enrolling in a local childbirth class with your partner. Labour can be a very challenging experience, both mentally and physically and feeling prepared will be a huge help when the time comes.
You’ll be amazed at how much your baby changes every single week. Track your preganancy week by week with Huggies.
Have more questions on pregnancy? Join a support group (if you have not done so!). Motherhood represents a completely new phase in your life and a community of new mothers who can journey with you will be helpful! Pregnancy tips, parenting tips, free diaper samples and exclusive diaper offers shared on the Huggies Club platform can ensure you are best prepared for your newborn child too.
