Tag: Pregnancy

Pregnancy week 15 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
As your baby is growing fast, you might have a sensation of tightness around your waist. You are likely to have lots of vaginal discharge or leucorrhoea. This is to keep your vagina clean and free from infection. Normal discharge is clear, white or creamy. You may also notice you have red, swollen gums that are prone to bleeding when you brush. It’s because of pregnancy hormones.

Baby size

Week 15 size guide
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a Guava (about 10cm and 65 – 70 gms).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Baby's eyebrows and eyelashes are starting to appear. His/her eyes are firmly shut but are sensitive to light. Your baby has also started hearing. Talk to your baby!

Taking care

Pregnancy week 15 wellness guide
Tips
  • Start doing pelvic floor exercises. It will help prevent leakage (urine) when you laugh, sneeze or cough.
  • Eat healthily, with plenty of fresh fruit and veg, and avoid processed, fatty and salty foods. However, don’t overeat! You don’t need extra calories until the third semester. 
  • Eat several small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals to prevent heartburn.
  • If you feel light headed/faint find a place to sit or lie down. If you can’t find such place kneel and bend your head forward (as in putting the straps of your sandals).
  • To reduce headache place a cool compress on your forehead. Look for a cool, dark place to rest.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. I am having a lot of discharge. Is that normal?
  2. How can I prevent gum disease?
  3. Am I gaining the right amount of weight?
  4. I am getting pain sin the lower sides of my belly. Is that normal?
  5. Is my blood pressure okay? Am I at risk of pre-eclampsia and do I need to take any medication to prevent it?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 15 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Attend antenatal visit and ask doctor about how well you and your baby are doing. 
  2. Do pelvic exercises.
  3. Attend prenatal yoga classes.

Questions you may have

“Many women get this. Normal discharge is generally clear, white or creamy. If it changes colour, starts smelling badly, looks like paneer or get pain when urinating, I was asked to consult my doctor.”

 

“I was weighing once a week or once every other week at home. I was advised do it consistently, at about the same time and under the same conditions. I was also told that it is okay if I have once a month weigh-ins at my doctor’s clinic.”

Pregnancy week 17 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
You will start to look and feel amazing glossy, full hair and radiant skin. Your morning sickness has possibly disappeared and you have a large appetite. You may be snoring very loudly in sleep.Don’t feel embarrassed by it.You have funny feelings in your body. It’s likely to be your baby moving !

Baby size

Week 17 size guide
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a large Onion (11-12 cms and weighs around 150 gms).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Your baby moves more after meals, when you listen to loud music or rub your tummy and talk to your baby! You can feel his/her hiccups. Your baby’s finger nails are starting to grow and he/she is forming unique finger prints.  The placenta which your baby attaches to in your uterus has grown and is as heavy as your baby. It provides all the nutrition, vitamins and good stuff to your baby.

Taking care

Pregnancy week 17 wellness guide
Tips
  • You are likely to be asked a lot of questions about your pregnancy by others. Some may want to touch your belly too!
  • It’s good to share a happy experience but feel free to firmly say no if you are uncomfortable.
  • Have fish rich in Omega 3 like Rohu to boost your baby’s brain development.
  • Eat 350 gms of fish a week (2 average meals). Avoid fishes like swordfish, shark and mackerel, which can contain high levels of mercury.
  • Eat plenty of Vitamin C rich foods and use unscented moisturiser for your body. This can help prevent stretch marks.
  • Don’t lie down immediately after a big meal. Otherwise you may end up with indigestion and heart burn.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. What medications are safe for me to use?
  2. Which exercises are okay for me?
  3. What should I do in preparation for birthing?
  4. Do I have any risks and how should I prevent it?
  5. I see strange spots on my face. Are these normal?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 17 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Involve husband by placing his hand on the belly and sharing the experience of baby moving
  2. Schedule 20 week ultrasound appointment.
  3. Record weight and blood pressure on the Kushal app.
  4. Get a head massage!

Questions you may have

“Everyone is different. I felt unattractive and overwhelmed by my changing body and was anxious about the responsibility of having a baby. I spoke to my doctor about it and attended the Kushal support network. That helped.”

“I was told to avoid excessive amounts of Vitamin A, which is found in beauty products. My skin was sensitive during pregnancy so I did not try new products.”

Your week 19 pregnancy wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
You are glowing with happiness and bursting with energy and you are obviously pregnant! You can feel your baby’s movements. You notice physical changes. Your nails and hair are growing faster! You get hot and uncomfortable and get headaches in crowded and poorly ventilated places.

Baby size

Week 20 size guide
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a Sweet Potato (roughly 24 cms and 300 gms)

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Your baby is getting more active each day - kicking, punching and turning around and sucking his/her thumb. Vernix, the coating that protects your baby in the uterus is developing. It also helps your baby ease through your birth canal at delivery.

Taking care

Your week 19 pregnancy wellness guide
Tips
  • Go for walks to unwind and relax. Invite a friend to join you in your walks. Walking will keep you fit.
  • When you are casually sitting do foot exercises. This can prevent leg cramps.
  • Rub your calve muscle hard and pull your toes upwards if you are woken up at night with sharp pains.
  • Chew on sugarless chewing gum after meals. This could prevent heartburn.
  • Take frequent fresh air breaks if you are in a stuffy room. This can help prevent headaches.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. What are the dos and donts in 2nd trimester of pregnancy?
  2. Which screening tests are important?
  3. I notice spotting at times. Is that normal?
  4. I am sad more often than being happy and the feeling is not going away. Do I need to see a specialist and get extra support?
  5. Am I gaining the right amount of weight? My belly is not as big compared to other pregnant women!

Your to do list

Your week 19 pregnancy wellness guide
Action points
  1. Check options for wellbeing sessions.
  2. Have folic acid supplement and prenatal vitamins.
  3. Book antenatal appointment with doctor.

Questions you may have

“It is not unusual to have some worries and fears. Don’t put too much expectation on yourself. Be realistic about what you can do. Relax when you need to. Spend time with others who make you feel relaxed and good about yourself. 1 in 10 pregnant women experience some form of depression. Talk to other expectant mothers. If you are feeling constantly bad or your mood is coming in the way of your day to day functioning talk to your GP.”

“I cried at the silliest of things! I went to the shops, saw baby clothes and started crying! It is common to have mood swings and get emotional. It’s those pregnancy hormones!”

Pregnancy week 20 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
You are glowing with happiness and bursting with energy and you are obviously pregnant! You can feel your baby’s movements. You notice physical changes. Your nails and hair are growing faster! You get hot and uncomfortable and get headaches in crowded and poorly ventilated places.

Baby size

Week 20 size guide
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a Sweet Potato (roughly 24 cms and 300 gms)

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Your baby is getting more active each day - kicking, punching and turning around and sucking his/her thumb. Vernix, the coating that protects your baby in the uterus is developing. It also helps your baby ease through your birth canal at delivery.

Taking care

Pregnancy week 20 wellness guide
Tips
  • Go for walks to unwind and relax. Invite a friend to join you in your walks. Walking will keep you fit.
  • When you are casually sitting do foot exercises. This can prevent leg cramps.
  • Rub your calve muscle hard and pull your toes upwards if you are woken up at night with sharp pains.
  • Chew on sugarless chewing gum after meals. This could prevent heartburn.
  • Take frequent fresh air breaks if you are in a stuffy room. This can help prevent headaches.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. What are the dos and donts in 2nd trimester of pregnancy?
  2. Which screening tests are important?
  3. I notice spotting at times. Is that normal?
  4. I am sad more often than being happy and the feeling is not going away. Do I need to see a specialist and get extra support?
  5. Am I gaining the right amount of weight? My belly is not as big compared to other pregnant women!

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 20 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Check options for wellbeing sessions.
  2. Have folic acid supplement and prenatal vitamins.
  3. Book antenatal appointment with doctor.

Questions you may have

“It is not unusual to have some worries and fears. Don’t put too much expectation on yourself. Be realistic about what you can do. Relax when you need to. Spend time with others who make you feel relaxed and good about yourself. 1 in 10 pregnant women experience some form of depression. Talk to other expectant mothers. If you are feeling constantly bad or your mood is coming in the way of your day to day functioning talk to your GP.”

“I cried at the silliest of things! I went to the shops, saw baby clothes and started crying! It is common to have mood swings and get emotional. It’s those pregnancy hormones!”

Pregnancy week 21 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
You are beginning to look very pregnant! You may see stretch marks all over your stomach, hips and breasts. You feel unsure on your feet and may lose your balance as your bump gets bigger. You will have an increased appetite too. Feeling anxious is common – the responsibilities of an expectant mother can be overwhelming.

Baby size

Week 21 size guide
What to expect
Your baby is a s big as a large Banana (roughly 25 cms long and 350 gms in weight).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Your baby is moving around a lot now! The arms and legs are in proportion and movements are coordinated. He/she has learnt how to sleep and tastes what you eat – spicy, sweet!

Taking care

Pregnancy week 21 wellness guide
Tips
  • Do pelvic floor exercises – this will help strengthen muscles and ligaments and prevent leakages later when you cough, laugh, cry….
  • Have frequent healthy snacks.
  • Drink plenty of water and have high fibre foods – to prevent gassiness and constipation.
  • Get gentle back massages for backache.
  • Talk about your feelings with family members and friends who have had a baby. – it is quite normal to feel anxious.
  • Discuss your fears about pregnancy and motherhood with your husband.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. Why am I having such swollen feet?
  2. Is it okay to do gentle yoga exercises?
  3. What should be my weight gain target?
  4. Is it okay to do hair removal or beauty treatments?
  5. Do I have to continue with my iron supplement tablets?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 21 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Express feelings with husband and ask for his support.
  2. Take a 30 minute walk each day.
  3. Record weight and blood pressure on the Kushal app.
  4. Schedule a week 21 ultrasound.

Questions you may have

“1 in 2 pregnant women generally feel anxiety at this stage. It is common. I was asked not to get worried about worrying! I spoke to a close friend about her experience when she was pregnant. That helped.”

“I felt the same! It’s because our baby is growing rapidly in size and our muscles which help with balance are relaxing to provide space. I also find it difficult to do things that I like doing – sleeping on my belly!”

Pregnancy week 22 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
Your body in week 22 - You are likely to be quite preoccupied with your body – those aches and pains! Your breasts may start to leak a little pre- milk – this is normal. You may also see some skin changes – darkening around your nipples and dark patches on your skin. Piles and haemorrhoids are not uncommon and can be painful.To know what changes take place week by week click here.

Baby size

Week 22 size image
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a Bell pepper/Capsicum (roughly 27 cms long and 410 gms in weight).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Baby listens eagerly and tries to make out the different sounds. He/she now knows the difference between light and dark. Shine a torch on your belly and see the reaction! Baby keeps grabbing his or her tinny ears. The lungs are developing in preparation to breathe once born.

Taking care

Pregnancy week 22 wellness guide
Tips
  • Have frequent health snacks like fruit and cut up and cleaned vegetables – helps to cope with your increased appetite.
  • Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day – helps prevent dizziness.
  • Exercise regularly and encourage bowel movements to prevent constipation.
  • Make sure you are having your prenatal vitamins.
  • Get to know your baby – try to identify baby’s different movements – kick, punch or hiccup? That will help cheer you up.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. Do I need a whooping cough vaccination?
  2. Should I add a magnesium supplement to my diet?
  3. I am getting a lot of aches and pains. Is that normal?
  4. I notice some spotting and am having pain. What should I do?
  5. Is everything okay with my pregnancy? Do I need to be concerned about anything?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 22 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Make sure you have some relaxation time. Watch your favourite TV shows – not just think and talk about your pregnancy.
  2. Do not sit or stand for long periods of time or keep your legs crossed.
  3. Record your weight and blood pressure on the Kushal app.
  4. Learn some soothing yoga based relaxation techniques.

Questions you may have

“I was told it is quite common and happens because of the changes going on in my body. Becoming dehydrated is also a common cause of dizziness. If it carries on for long check with your doctor to rule out anaemia. Low blood sugar is not common and is easily manageable.”

For questions related to COVID, please click here.

“It could be your uterus is practising for delivery! These are called Braxton-Hicks contractions and they are not dangerous.”

Pregnancy week 23 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
As your bump grows you might be feeling increasingly anxious. You may also seem to forget things easily – often referred to as pregnancy brain! You may start to get rib pain as your rib cage expands and your breasts could leak colostrum. Colostrum is the first milk you produce after giving birth, which is thick and usually a golden yellow colour and essential to help your baby fight off infections. If you notice dark pigmentation in your skin, it could be sunburn.

Baby size

Week 23 - size guide
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a Grapefruit (roughly 28 cms long and 475 gms).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Baby is practising breathing and his/her heartbeat can be heard with a stethoscope. Baby also  begins to rapidly gain weight and kicks around a lot. You will notice your tummy moving! Baby’s brain is developing and he/she starts recognising your voice.

Taking care

Pregnancy week 23 wellness guide
Tips
  • Practise relaxation techniques to overcome your pregnancy worries – yoga is a good de-stressor.
  • Slide a pillow between your legs and rest with your knees bent when you sleep – this should give you a good night’s rest.
  • Keep a bottle or glass of water always by your side.
  • Make sure you are getting your extra dose of vitamins and iron supplement
  • Avoid face makeup with chemicals to cover any dark discolouration that you may get. These disappear automatically a few months after delivery.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. I get tired very easily; feel weak, breathless and dizzy. What is the problem?
  2. I get a lot of upper back pain. What should I do?
  3. How do I stop the burning sensation I get when I go the bathroom?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 23 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Book antenatal appointment with your doctor.
  2. Have my iron supplement and prenatal vitamins
  3. Have 8 glasses of water a day.
  4. Make sure to have an extra pillow between your legs when you go to sleep.

Questions you may have

“I was advised to try to give up the habit of drinking tea and coffee. Too much tea or coffee in pregnancy is linked to miscarriage and low birth weight. If you can’t give up, try not to have more than two cups of tea a day!”

“That is because of your baby kicking and moving. It is a sign that baby is well!”

Pregnancy week 24 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
 Aches and pains appear anywhere in your body – that's because baby is moving a lot. You are likely to be putting on weight – your baby is growing! Belly may be big enough for you to have a protruding naval! You could be having sleepless nights and may not have enough desire for sexual intimacy.

Baby size

Week 24 baby size
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a large Pomegranate (about 30 cms long and 575 gms in weight).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Baby if born now can survive outside the womb  with the right support! However, your baby still needs you and has to be nurtured in your belly for another three months. His/her arms, legs and head are in proportion. He/she responds to soothing voices when your husband or you rub your belly.

Taking care

Pregnancy week 24 wellness guide
Tips
  • Try natural remedies for sleep like meditation or hot milk before bed.
  • Avoid sleeping on your hands so that you don’t get swollen and painful wrists.
  • Straighten your legs and move your ankles and toes in circular movements to avoid cramps.
  • Soak your hands and feet in cold water or apply ice packs if they get red and itchy. Also avoid wearing socks.
  • If you are keen to keep your hair in control rub a tablespoon of coconut oil in your hair after shampooing!

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. Do I need to get a test for diabetes?
  2. At times I see things blurred. Is this normal?
  3. I have lower abdominal pain. I also feel a little feverish and chills. Do I have a serious problem?
  4. I am having white discharge and irritation around the vulva. What can I do?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 24 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Have your folic acid supplement and prenatal vitamins.
  2. Book an antenatal appointment with your doctor.
  3. Schedule to get a glucose test done.
  4. Discuss having a birthing plan with your husband.

Questions you may have

“Weight gain differs from woman to woman. On an average women gain 10 -14 Kgs during pregnancy. In the second trimester women generally gain 400 – 425 gms a week. If you are concerned that you are not reaching the target weight gain your doctor advised ask your doctor for advice. I checked with my doctor.”

“I was offered one in my second trimester. Whooping cough can kill and the vaccination provides protection during the first few weeks of the baby’s life. It is very safe for mother and baby. You should consult your doctor.”

Pregnancy week 25 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
You are starting to feel uncomfortable because of simple things that you may not be able to do easily, like bending. You are also likely to get back aches and feel clumsy with movements. That is because your uterus is growing rapidly. It is the size of a football! You are likely to be puffy and swollen in your face, hands and feet and your fingers may feel numb and tingly.Your hair looks thick and lustrous – enjoy!

Baby size

Week 28 baby size
What to expect
Your baby is the size of a small Eggplant or Aubergine (roughly 32 cms and 640 gms).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Baby is getting hiccups and sticking out his/her tongue! The brain, lungs and digestive system are quite developed. The first bowel movement has taken place. Kidneys are functioning and baby can pass urine!

Taking care

Pregnancy week 25 wellness guide
Tips
  • Sit up straight when you eat, eat small and healthy meals, cut back on tea or coffee to prevent indigestion problems – heart burn, nausea, distension.
  • If your vision seems blurred try not to worry too much – it will pass off after delivery.
  • Carry on doing pelvic floor exercises, have lots of water and food rich in fibre to help with constipation.
  • Maintain oral hygiene – brush your teeth at least twice a day. Periodontitis, a serious infection of gums has been linked to premature birth and increased risk of pregnancy related serious illnesses.
  • Use moisturiser or calamine lotion if your skin feels itchy.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. My face, hands and feet feel puffy and swollen. I also get splitting headaches. Can this be due to high blood pressure in pregnancy?
  2. I get this tingling sensation and constant urge to move my legs. Could this be due to iron deficiency?
  3. My wrists hurt and I can barely move my fingers. Can acupuncture help?
  4. I often think that I don’t deserve to be happy! I think I have depression?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 25 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Get weight checked and assessed.
  2. Have folic acid supplement and prenatal vitamins
  3. Book antenatal appointment.
  4. Ask how to prevent depression after birth.

Questions you may have

“Birth plans are personal. It is about thinking through what you would like to happen during your labour and after the birth. I planned where I wanted to give birth, what kind of pain relief I would like, discuss about caesarean section and what should I be looking out for in my newborn. I was advised to discuss my birthing plan with my husband, how he could help and to be flexible as all may not go as per plan!”

“Normal daily hair loss is suppressed by pregnancy hormones. Enjoy the look for now. After delivery you will shed quite a lot - all the hair that does not fall now!”

Pregnancy week 26 wellness guide

Your Body

changes in the body
What to expect
As the third trimester approaches you feel more tired, quite clumsy and uncoordinated – you are having to carry a lot of extra weight. You get of leg cramps and just feel like curling up throughout the day. Your belly button is likely to be protruding out now and the line downwards starting from your naval is quite dark. You just feel like snacking – avoid that!

Baby size

Baby size week 26
What to expect
Your baby is as big as a Sweet Papaya (roughly 34 cms long and 740 gms in weight).

Your Baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Baby’s eyes are opening, blinking for the first time! The brain is developing and processing information – listening and responding to sounds. Fingernails have grown. He/she might be feeling a little cramped in your womb.Baby has quite a bit of hair this week.

Taking care

Pregnancy week 26 wellness guide
Tips
  • Allow more time to do your usual activities – like when you have to walk to the bus stop.
  • Remain active as you are likely to feel like staying put and not moving.
  • Get to know your baby’s movement patterns. Learn how to track the frequency of movements.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you touch foods like raw meats, egg, poultry or fish.
  • Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them, even the ones you will peel. Avoid raw eggs.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions
  1. I can’t feel my baby’s movements as strongly. Is that okay?
  2. Why am I kicking in my sleep?
  3. My eyes feel dry and irritated. Is that normal?
  4. I normally get migraines. But it seems to have increased a lot in pregnancy. What medication can I take?
  5. Do I need to have a birthing plan?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 26 wellness guide
Action points
  1. Make a daily activity plan.
  2. Practice good posture.
  3. Get your weight checked and assessed.
  4. Have your folic acid supplement and prenatal vitamins.
  5. Book Ann antenatal appointment with your doctor.

Questions you may have

“Rubbing my muscles where it hurt helped. I also made it a point to do ankle and foot exercises when I got into bed. Pulling my toes upwards also helped.”

“It’s best to talk to your doctor. Also share how you feel with your husband or your close friend. It helped me. Try to take away negative thoughts from your mind. Don't suppress positive thoughts actively.

Having thoughts like I don’t deserve to be happy suggest that postpartum depression may be likely. Your doctor will suggest if you need specialised help.”