Dear mom! What a week it has been! I’m here, gazing at your radiant face and I can sense that you have more stories to share. But today, let’s turn the spotlight on me for a change.
The foetus has now grown to an impressive size of 23 to 25 cm, resembling a happy banana baby. Your little one is busy, engaged in numerous activities within your womb. Firstly, they’re ardently developing a sleep pattern or cycle and they’re starting to respond to the sounds of their surroundings. It’s the perfect time to have a cosy chat with your gooey, goofy companion. Moreover, your baby is diligently practising thumb-sucking, a delightful sight you might catch during your prenatal ultrasound examinations (if you’re lucky).
But that’s not all; your little dynamo doesn’t stop at thumb-sucking. They’re rolling, diving and giving their best kicks. You might even experience some rhythmic jerking. It’s a high-energy phase for your baby. Additionally, the digestive system is producing a greenish-black substance called Meconium. This peculiar substance is the baby’s first bowel movement and comprises materials they ingested in the womb, such as amniotic fluid, skin cells and other waste products. Meconium is typically passed within the first few days after birth and is eventually replaced by regular stool. However, if a baby passes meconium before birth or during labour, it could indicate a potential problem requiring medical attention.
This week is also marked by rapid brain development, particularly in the nerve centre of the brain dedicated to the senses. Taste buds are now transmitting signals to the brain, forming the foundation of your little one’s future food preferences. Ever wondered what they eat? They swallow tiny molecules of the food you eat and the amniotic fluid.
Now, let’s check in on the symptoms of the 20th week:
- Sleeplessness: A common woe during this week. Sometimes it’s the baby’s kicks and pushes, sometimes it’s that frequent trip to the restroom. Establishing a sleep schedule can help. Pregymatic suggests investing in pregnancy pillows for added comfort.
- Itchy skin: Especially around the breast and belly areas as your body adjusts to your growing baby. Cold packs can provide relief and moisturising is essential.
- Snoring: Swollen mucous membranes can cause snoring to peak. The best advice is to bear with it.
- Hair and nail growth: Thanks to pregnancy hormones, particularly estrogen, you’re experiencing a remarkable growth phase. Enjoy it while it lasts because post-childbirth, you might be dealing with hair fall.
- Constipation: Your adorable baby is pushing from all corners, especially the intestines, resulting in constipation. Avoid certain foods and beverages, limit processed foods, fried foods and carbonated drinks. Reduce caffeine intake. Natural remedies like prunes, flaxseed and herbal teas may help. Pregymatic advice continuing a fibre-rich meal plan and staying well-hydrated. Treat yourself to squash or blueberry mojitos.
- Lower back pain: The growing uterus places extra strain on your back. Shift your positions, enlist the comfort of pillows and gel pads, consider prenatal massages and explore relaxation techniques.
Pregymatic suggested medical monitoring for moms:
The 20th week marks a significant milestone and a variety of vital tests are usually conducted. These tests assess both your health and the baby’s development:
- Ultrasound scan
- Blood test
- Rh factor antibody screening
- Genetic screening
- Doppler ultrasound
In summary, this week brings a mix of experiences for mothers-to-be. While some symptoms might challenge you, remember that every pain has its end and it’s a fruitful one. Those big inconveniences will seem tiny once you hold your little bundle of joy in your arms. Pregnancy may bring some bitterness, but trust the process. Engage in regular physical activities, update your playlists, rearrange your bedroom, choose baby names, indulge in your favourite lasagna, host a chit-chat party with fellow new moms and keep yourself engaged.
Wishing you well on this journey. Until next time, take care and stay healthy.
Recipe for 20th week – Sweet potato wedges
INGREDIENTS
- Sweet potato – 1/4 kg
- Chilli flakes – 1 tsp
- Pepper powder – ½ tsp
- Salt – to taste
- Chat masala – ¼ tsp
- Ginger garlic paste – ½ tsp
- Oil – for shallow fry.
METHOD
- Begin by cutting the sweet potato into wedges.
- Boil them until they become tender.
- Drain the water and transfer the wedges to a bowl.
- Add all the other ingredients and mix them thoroughly.
- Heat a pan with oil.
- Once the oil is hot, arrange the sweet potato wedges in the pan.
- Roast them on both sides until golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
1.Sweet potato – 2.5 mg of iron, 3 gms of dietary fibre.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
Sweet potatoes offer several nutritional benefits during pregnancy:
- Rich in nutrients: Sweet potatoes are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C, both of which are important for immune system support, skin health and vision.
- Fibre content: The high fibre content in sweet potatoes can help alleviate constipation, a common issue during pregnancy and promote healthy digestion.
- Complex carbohydrates: Sweet potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy that can help counteract pregnancy-related fatigue.
- Vitamin b6: This vitamin is crucial for brain development in the foetus and can also help alleviate morning sickness.
- Folate: Sweet potatoes contain folate (vitamin B9), which is essential for preventing neural tube defects and supporting proper foetal development.
- Minerals: Sweet potatoes provide minerals like potassium, which helps regulate fluid balance, blood pressure and muscle function.
- Antioxidants: The vibrant orange colour of sweet potatoes indicates the presence of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that supports overall health and may contribute to the development of the baby’s eyes and skin.
- Blood sugar regulation: Despite their natural sweetness, sweet potatoes have a relatively low glycemic index, meaning they can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is important during pregnancy to prevent gestational diabetes.
- Heart health: The fibre and potassium in sweet potatoes can contribute to cardiovascular health by supporting healthy blood pressure levels.
- Variety in diet: Including sweet potatoes in your diet adds variety and flavour, helping you meet your nutritional needs during pregnancy.
When preparing sweet potatoes, opt for cooking methods that retain their nutrients, such as baking, steaming, or boiling. Avoid deep frying, as it can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats.
As with any dietary changes during pregnancy, it’s recommended to consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to ensure that sweet potatoes fit well into your individual nutritional needs and any specific considerations you may have.
Wishing you a joyous and healthy pregnancy journey!
Always only speak to a health care service provider for all pregnancy related queries and diet recommendations.
