Pregnancy Week 27

CONGRATULATIONS! You have reached the end of the second trimester!!!!! WOOT WOOT! This is probably going to be the time when all of the excitement also gets flooded with anxiety, because it is at this point you are preparing your registry, getting ready for your shower, and getting the nursery ready. And if you're like me, the fact that the nursery is only painted and nothing more, is probably sending you into a tailspin.

Also, this week your doctor is going to start measuring your little bundle from head to toe instead of crown to rump, so you are going to see a big jump in the size of your baby. Who is now approximately 15 inches long. The reason for this is before this week your little one was simply to small to get an accurate measure from head to toe. But now that he is packing on inches it is a lot easier for your doctor to get an accurate measurement.  Additionally, this week, your baby may now recognize your voice, so utilize any downtime you have to talk and sing to your belly, you may even notice an increase in fetal movement on certain songs! My daughter always wiggled and jiggled when I sung her a lullaby I made up for her, and it is still her favorite song at bedtime!

Don't be surprised if you are feeling a little puffy. About 75 percent of soon-to-be moms experience edema, or mild swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles, around this time in their pregnancy.  You may notice it throughout the day or only at the end of the day (like I do). If you haven't traded in your heals for flats yet I suggest you do so now because they will only make the edema worse. Seriously, I wore wedges for a total of 15 minutes today for part of our maternity pictures and I was able to leave an indent on the top of my foot from the swelling!  The reason for the edema is because of the build up of fluids in your body tissues thanks to increased blood flow and uterine vein on the vena cave (the large vein that moves the blood from your lower extremities to your heart).  While this puffiness is completely normal, if you don't experience a reduction in the swelling when you put your feet up for a few minutes, let your doctor know so they can make sure there aren't other issues at play.

Some other fun (or not so fun) symptoms you may be experiencing by this time in your pregnancy are: flatulence, occasional faintness or dizziness, restless leg syndrome, nasal congestion, symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) which is when the ligaments in your pelvic joints get too relaxed and stretchy, causing the pelvic joint to become unstable, which can cause pain in the pelvic region.  If this is happening discuss with your doctor if wearing a pelvic support belt would help ease the pain.  You may also experience bleeding gums, so brush gently, and changes in you skin, hair, and nails.  Some women report stronger, thicker hair and nails with glowing skin. Others report more fragile hair and nails and skin problems such as acne.  Either is normal, but if you have concerns or questions don't hesitate to call your practitioner.

Week 26
Week 28