Welcome to what’s often called the honeymoon phase of your pregnancy, as you’ll likely have more energy than in previous weeks and, for most moms, nausea could be a thing of the past.
Your baby is the size of a peach – about 8.6cm and 42.5g, almost double in size from last week.
Your baby at 14 weeks
Can you believe that your little one has developed facial expressions such as squinting and frowning, and they’re starting to make sucking and chewing movements? They can even suck their thumb which, if you are lucky, is something you might see during an ultrasound.
Their body is now growing faster than the head and the arms faster than the legs. These little arms and legs can already punch and kick, but you won’t feel that movement yet. Their fingernails and toenails are also starting to develop.
Your baby’s kidneys are making urine and their genitals are now fully formed, although you probably won’t be able to see them on a scan yet.
ALSO CHECK OUT: Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
Your body at 14 weeks pregnant
Aside from increased energy levels, you might also notice that your hair is looking thicker and shinier and that your appetite has increased. You should be eating around 300 extra calories a day – keep healthy snacks on hand and ensure you’re still drinking plenty of water.
You might be experiencing some aches and pains, a result of your muscles and ligaments stretching to accommodate your baby.
Enlarged veins in your legs are quite common owing to increased blood volume – they’re generally painless and harmless, so don’t worry too much about them. Drink lots of water to prevent these and also switch positions regularly when standing or sitting.
You might experience leg cramps too, which occur because blood vessels or nerves in the legs are compressed. If cramps tend to bother you at night, try stretching your calves before bed every night. Cramps could also be a sign that you need more Magnesium in your diet, so make sure you’re eating Magnesium-rich foods like cashew nuts or almonds, avocado and legumes like chickpeas.
Taking care of yourself during this time
- It’s normal – and healthy – to put on weight during pregnancy. Anything between 10kg and 13kg is considered normal, although most of this will be gained after the 20 week mark. Instead of worrying about your weight, focus on eating a variety of healthy foods.
- Spoil yourself with a pedicure, facial or massage at a spa (or get your partner to do it!).
- Buy new shoes. A lot of women struggle with swollen feet during pregnancy and it’s not uncommon for your feet to go up a shoe size. Comfort really is more important than style at this point so choose well-fitting, practical shoes.
- Your libido might have increased during the second trimester, so go have some bedroom fun. It’s safe to have sex while pregnant and you can always try out new positions that feel more comfortable.
Click here for pregnancy at 13 weeks
As women, it is our birth right to conceive and be able to carry a child. We’re born with all of the parts to create, …
