Good evening, my lovely ladies! The world seems to be buzzing both inside and outside – is it the baby or is it you, mom? Well, whatever the source, it’s all for a good reason. I’m here to share the wonderful developments of this week with you.
Our little papaya is now transforming into a beautiful eggplant, stretching to measure between 28cm to 29cm from head to toe. The baby’s skin is gracefully forming ridges, creating the foundation for those adorable little fingerprints and footprints. It’s nothing short of marvellous! The baby can now hear familiar sounds, so don’t hold back – hump your favourite melodies, have heart-to-heart chats and why not share a cherished family secret?
Now, let’s dive into the intriguing world of the digestive system. Muscles inside are practising rhythmic movements, preparing for the day when food will make its debut. It’s like a rehearsal, even though there’s no actual food involved yet.
Our baby is indulging in longer naps, with a whopping 80% of their sleep characterised by non-rapid eye movements. Their growing brain is taking on more responsibilities, constructing billions of brain cells to manage sensory input and oversee basic life functions.
The baby’s tender skin is now adorned with a translucent sheet that appears somewhat reddish, resembling tiny arteries. Beneath the surface, veins are rapidly weaving their intricate patterns.
Let’s address some of the symptoms of the 23rd week:
- Prickly fingers: Prickly fingers during pregnancy might signal carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition causing numbness, tingling and pain in the hand and fingers. This happens due to increased pressure on the median nerve, running through the wrist to the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger. Pregnancy’s hormonal changes and fluid retention can heighten the risk of developing this syndrome. These sensations may be more pronounced at night or in the morning and can affect both hands, even spreading up to the shoulder.
- Darker skin: Pregnancy often brings darker skin, primarily due to hormonal shifts and increased melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin, hair and eye colour. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly higher levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy, can stimulate melanin production, resulting in darkened areas on various parts of the body. These may include the face (known as melasma or the “mask of pregnancy”), nipples, areolas, genital area, inner thighs and underarms. Protecting your skin with high SPF sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade can help mitigate this.
- Vision changes: Vision changes during pregnancy are relatively common, often attributed to hormonal fluctuations, fluid retention and alterations in blood circulation. These changes may manifest as blurred vision, dry eyes, sensitivity to bright lights and changes in contact lens tolerance.
- Linea nigra: The linea nigra, a dark line that can appear on the abdomen during pregnancy, is a natural and common occurrence. It often emerges around the second trimester, running vertically from the pubic area to the navel. The length and darkness of this line can vary from person to person, with those with darker skin tones typically experiencing more prominent lines. After childbirth, the line gradually fades and may eventually disappear, though it may persist for some women.
- Snoring: Ah, snoring, an integral part of the journey to motherhood! Nasal strips can provide immediate relief by aiding in controlling snoring.
- Feeling of fullness: Blame it on progesterone! This hormone slows down the digestive process, delaying your body’s cues for the next meal. To manage this, opt for smaller, more frequent meals and always be mindful of what you eat.
Now, Pregymatic’s suggested medical monitoring for moms:
During the 23rd week of pregnancy, consider these routine tests and screenings:
Blood pressure measurement: To ensure your blood pressure remains within a healthy range.
Urine analysis: An essential component of your urinary health assessment.
Glucose screening: To monitor for gestational diabetes.
Blood tests: Comprehensive health assessment.
Ultrasound: Offering insights into your baby’s development.
Foetal heart Rate Monitoring: Ensuring your baby’s heart is healthy.
In conclusion, this week is a bit of a good luck charm for both your baby and you. Many of the symptoms that may have lingered are now bound to vanish. While some new ones may appear, I promise they’ll also disappear and become nothing more than a distant memory.
Embrace this week with smaller meals, indulge in activities that bring you joy, engage in heartfelt conversations with your little daffodil and, above all, ensure you get plenty of rest. Until next week, farewell and take good care.
Recipe for the 23th week – Figs, almond milkshake
INGREDIENTS
- Fig – 5 – 6 nos
- Almond – 7 nos
- Milk – 250 ml
METHOD
- Soak figs and almonds overnight.
- In a blender, combine soaked figs, almonds and the soaked water
- Blend until smooth.
- Add milk and blend for 10-12 seconds.
- Serve chilled or warm.
- No sweetener needed.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
- Fig – Fibre – 1.4 gms , Calcium – 162 mg
- Milk – 24% of Calcium, 8 gms of Protein.
- Almond – 4.5 gms of Protein
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
Benefits of figs and almond milkshake during pregnancy:
- Nutrient powerhouse: This delightful shake is a treasure trove of essential nutrients, enriching both maternal and foetal health.
- Iron fortification: Figs and almonds provide a robust iron boost, guarding against anaemia during pregnancy.
- Gentle digestion: Figs, known for their natural laxative properties, support healthy digestion and alleviate common pregnancy-related constipation.
- Strong bones: The calcium in almonds nurtures your baby’s developing bones and teeth.
- Natural sweetness: Satisfying those sweet cravings naturally, this shake helps you avoid excess sugars.
- Effortless preparation: Easily whip up this nutritious elixir, perfect for expectant mothers on the go.
Indulge in the nourishing goodness of this shake to enhance your pregnancy journey.
Wishing you a joyous and healthy pregnancy journey!
Always only speak to a health care service provider for all pregnancy related queries and diet recommendation
