What happens in the thirteenth obstetric week of pregnancy. What happens in the thirteenth obstetric week of pregnancy Baby 13 weeks development

This is a time of great changes in the feelings of the expectant mother and a new stage in the development of her baby. It is this week that is considered the most informative for the first prenatal study, which is called "screening".

How many months is it?

By the 13th obstetric week, women are already well versed in how pregnancy is calculated. Doctors always set a period that is approximately two weeks longer than the actual one. This is the obstetric period, and the difference of 14 days is the time elapsed from the first day of the last menstrual period before pregnancy until the expected ovulation.

If the 13th obstetric week has begun, then this means that it is now exactly 12 weeks according to medical standards for calculating the gestational age, that is, it is 12-13 weeks, and 10-11 weeks have passed from conception. 11 embryonic week corresponds to 13 obstetric week. The fourth lunar month has begun (each of them has exactly 4 weeks). In calendar terms, almost three months have passed.

Indicate the first day of your last period

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Baby development

The fetal period of development of the baby is in full swing. It has already been 3 weeks since the moment when he ceased to be an embryo and became a fetus. With the beginning of this period, the baby every day becomes more and more like a man. He no longer has a tail - he has turned into a tailbone. The formation of internal organs is completed - now they will only grow.

Now the baby looks like a decent onion in size. His height is within 7-10 cm. The baby now weighs more than 20 grams.

Appearance

The baby looks very thin and wrinkled. This is due to the fact that while he does not have subcutaneous fatty tissue. The skin is very thin, capillaries and larger blood vessels are visible through them. On the baby's head, vellus hair grows, they are still light in all children, because the pigment that dyes the hair in one color or another has not yet begun to be produced.

The baby's head is still quite large in relation to the body. On average, it makes up half of the entire area of ​​the fetus. This imbalance will be eliminated over time, and by the time of delivery, the baby's body will be five times larger than the head.

The proportions of arms and legs begin to align. If earlier the handles were short, now this week they noticeably increase in length, and the legs are beginning to grow. The lower limbs are still much shorter than the upper ones.

The fingers and toes are fully formed on the hands and feet, each of them is crowned with a small nail. The child has completed the formation of ears, and from this week he begins to hear, but so far the hearing is more of a vibrational nature, because the formation of the inner ear is still continuing. By about the 20th week of pregnancy, this process will be completed, and the sound waves will begin to transform into sounds familiar to each of us.

The eyes, which were previously on the sides of the head, have already moved to their proper place. The eyelids have formed - now they tightly cover the organs of vision. The face already has a nose, and in some children who, for racial or genetic reasons, have a prominent nose, these bones are already so large that a profile with a pronounced, well-defined structure is easily visible.

The neck is already formed - the baby can turn the head. All internal organs are located in their places, nothing looks outside the abdominal cavity. The appearance of the crumbs begins to acquire individual features.

Internal organs

Since all organs have already been formed, now they are in the process of their growth, and they are also "learning" to work correctly, becoming more complex and developed. The gallbladder produces bile at 13 weeks, and the pancreas starts producing insulin two weeks earlier. The intestine contracts rhythmically, and this is almost real peristalsis, despite the fact that the baby, in the usual sense, does not eat yet.

A small heart in its structure completely repeats the heart of an adult: it has four chambers, but it beats much faster. The heart rate (HR) this week is 140 to 170 beats per minute. The fetal heart pumps about 23 liters of blood per day. The kidneys are working at full capacity: they produce urine, accumulate it, and the urinary system brings them out into the amniotic fluid. The baby writes often: almost once an hour.

Nervous system

The nervous system continues to improve. At the physiological level, it is completely laid down, there is a brain and spinal cord, but the functional processes are still in the stage of formation. The spinal cord is still receiving impulses from the nerve endings, but soon the brain will begin to do so. In the meantime, brain tissue is being formed in it, and this process is very fast: 250 thousand new cells are formed in the fetal brain at 13 weeks daily.

Special communication channels continue to form between the muscles and the nervous system. The baby already has several reflex skills in his arsenal: he shudders, the sucking and swallowing reflexes have already been learned, his hands are clenched into fists, he has a grasping reflex. Taste receptors already "catch" the shades of tastes: if the mother eats sweets, the child will definitely notice a change in the taste of the waters - he will swallow such amniotic fluid more willingly.

If the waters are bitter, because the mother ate onions and garlic, then their taste will not be too pleasant for the baby - he will not swallow them.

The baby's movements are becoming more active. Most of the time, he is in a dormant state, which resembles a dream. During periods of wakefulness, the baby “has fun”: he hugs himself, plays with the umbilical cord, examines his face by touch and swims. Mothers do not feel any movements yet - there is enough space in the uterus.

Gender

The external genitals of the baby are being formed. The boys' genital tubercles have lengthened, now it is a small penis. And in girls this week, the genital tubercles begin to curl and shrink, turning into labia.

But it is still quite difficult to find out the sex - the sex differences in size are small. An experienced doctor, of course, will be able to see the difference if an ultrasound scan is done on a machine with a good resolution, and the baby is located conveniently for examination. But the doctor cannot yet guarantee to name the sex of the child - the probability of an error at this time is quite high.

At the 13th obstetric week, the most global changes occur in the reproductive system of girls. Their ovaries descend into the pelvis and already contain about 2 million eggs. In boys, the formation of the prostate gland continues.

Skeletal system

Since the thyroid gland has been diligently developing and starting to work over the past weeks, calcium deposits have begun in the baby's bones, and they become stronger. The bones of the skull and spine begin to strengthen first, followed by the bones of the limbs. The baby has ribs this week.

Right now, the need for calcium for the mother and the fetus is great. If the baby misses him, he will begin to take calcium from the mother's bones. As a result, the quality and appearance of nails, hair, teeth will deteriorate in a woman. By the way, the rudiments of the baby's milk teeth have already been fully formed, and now they will be waiting in the wings.

Respiratory system

The child's respiratory organs are already developed. This week he starts trying breathing movements. The chest expands irregularly so far, but every day the respiratory contractions will be more and more regular. After birth, the baby will intuitively know how to breathe.

The glottis remains closed for now. The vocal cords are actively formed at 13 weeks, so that after birth, the baby announces the delivery with a loud cry. The lungs do not yet produce and accumulate a substance important for respiration - a surfactant. The baby will begin to prepare for spontaneous breathing in the middle of the third trimester.

What a baby can do. Despite the fact that the fetus is still very small, it actively develops its skills. Now the baby reacts to external stimuli. If a mother starts coughing or talking with someone in a raised voice, then a special vibration will reach the baby, and he will feel changes in his mother's mood.

Until now, it remains unknown how children at this time manage to feel fear, pain and joy. But numerous studies that covered the category of pregnant women who are going to have an abortion at this time have shown that the child perfectly feels all maternal emotions, feels pain. If he is in pain, he opens his mouth in soundless crying, and if he is afraid, he tries to "hide", shrink.

Scientists believe that the bond between mother and baby is now based on changes in the composition of the mother's blood. With a change in emotions, her hormonal background subtly changes, and this is what the child feels.

At 13 weeks, the baby makes a variety of grimaces - his facial muscles are already developed enough for this. He learned to bring his fists to his mouth and tries to suck them, he is good at yawning, hiccuping, stretching after sleep. It gives him special pleasure to play with his own umbilical cord: he grabs it and feels it.

Kid on ultrasound. An ultrasound scan this week is performed as part of a prenatal screening, if it has not been done earlier. The deadlines set by the Ministry of Health for this diagnostic event allow for screening this week. This ultrasound can be the first "meeting" of a future mother and her baby. Now, on the monitor of the ultrasound scanner, you can already examine in detail the profile of the crumbs, the nose, the eyebrows, small arms, legs, listen to the heartbeat. All this causes a real delight in women.

During the study, the doctor assesses the viability of the baby, its size and correlates them with special tables, by which one can judge the exact duration of pregnancy and the characteristics of the development of the fetus.

The CTE (coccyx-parietal size) remains informative, in fact, which is a segment between the coccyx and the crown of the head. Some doctors do not measure the CTE this week, since the biparietal (transverse size of the baby's head), measured between the temporal bones, becomes more informative in terms of determining the term.

This week it is already possible to measure the length of the femurs, but the bones of the lower leg and shoulder are still so small that it is impractical to measure them. The SVD is also not measured - the diameter of the ovum, since it exceeded 50 mm two weeks ago and became too large for measurement.

For the full 12 weeks and the six days following it, the following norms are characteristic:

Table of average fetometry values ​​at 13 weeks (12-13 weeks)

Those who have measured the CTE will be interested to know if their baby complies with the average statistical standards. These values ​​for week 13 are:

CTE at 13 weeks of gestation

The circumference of the baby's abdomen at this time is on average from 61 to 69 mm.

The placenta has already fully assumed all the responsibilities of nourishing and protecting the child, and now, if the need arises, a woman can take medications that were not previously recommended to her, since the internal organs of the embryo were being laid, and there was no protective barrier. The thickness of the placenta at this time is from 15 to 18 mm, but it is not yet measured by ultrasound, since its thickness will have a diagnostic value no earlier than 20 weeks and later

Feelings of the expectant mother

The woman's feelings this week are ambiguous - on the one hand, she is happy and proud of her growing tummy, and on the other, she understands that the child is serious, and, accordingly, all the anxieties associated with this appear: will there be enough strength, experience, funds for in order to grow it. Women who are pregnant with their first child are usually especially worried about this.

Since the first trimester can be considered complete, the hormonal background somewhat "calms down"... Progesterone and estrogens have accumulated in the female body in sufficient quantities, now their production is not so strongly felt by the pregnant woman. Therefore, the symptoms of toxicosis begin to leave the expectant mother, her appetite improves, her night's sleep becomes stronger, and strong daytime sleepiness recedes slightly. In general, her health improves, signs of malaise are making themselves felt less and less.

If in the first trimester a woman suffered from increased salivation, now a little less saliva is being produced. Dizziness and nausea gradually go away.

The belly grows noticeably. The belly and hips already look rounded, and many women can no longer hide their position. At this time, even superstitious women, who were afraid to report their situation before, are no longer afraid to divulge this important information and bring the fact of their pregnancy to friends, colleagues and relatives. Understanding the fact that the threat of miscarriage and the critical period have passed makes a woman more confident and calm.

A growing tummy begins to require a woman to change her habits. Sleeping on your stomach is now uncomfortable, and you have to choose new positions for sexual relations. Many women note that it has become uncomfortable for them to lie on their back for a long time - the growing uterus begins to squeeze the inferior vena cava. This week, the woman already realizes that the things she wore before pregnancy no longer converge at the waist, they are tight in the hips and chest.

The time has come to change the wardrobe to a more spacious one, and the usual bra should be changed to a more extensive bodice with wide straps that will support the growing breasts.

The mood, which used to be unstable, now begins to "level off", the woman becomes more balanced and calm, but she can be forgetful and absent-minded. All these metamorphoses are caused by the influence of a new hormonal background on the brain: everything in a woman's body adjusts to the needs of the child. The baby now needs a calm and peaceful mother.

And yet the woman is still quite sensitive. This week, you should not communicate with people who like to talk about their difficult experience of childbirth and pregnancy, describe in paints all the horrors of the birth process and possible dangers. Pregnant women take someone else's experience too close to their hearts, especially if they are carrying their first child. Such stories can cause unnecessary stress, tears, fears and anxiety now.

You should also not "cheat" yourself about the upcoming screening. No matter how other pregnant women scared them from the pages of the forums, there is nothing wrong with this diagnosis. If you correctly understand its essence, then the excitement will be minimal.

Domestic conflicts and quarrels should be avoided, after all, the baby can already react to stress factors from the outside. If there is no one to talk to in confidence, right now a woman can turn to a psychologist who conducts a free appointment at any antenatal clinic.

The growing uterus begins to mechanically squeeze the intestines, which is why now the most pressing problem of pregnant women is constipation. Proper nutrition will help improve your well-being. It will also save a woman from another trouble of the beginning of the second trimester - a possible hemorrhoids. At the beginning of the 13th week, the expectant mother may notice that she has cramps in the calf muscles. Thus, calcium deficiency manifests itself, the need for which has increased significantly at this time.

This week, women who are monitoring their blood pressure may notice that their blood pressure is dropping. This is normal, because now the body has another circle of blood circulation (uteroplacental). Usually, mild natural hypotension does not cause any unpleasant symptoms.

If the pressure drops below normal, then this can be manifested by weakness, dizziness, loss of consciousness. Be sure to consult your doctor.

The hormone progesterone, which "tried" throughout the first trimester, continues to have a systemic effect on the female body. Now most often he becomes the "culprit" of frequent urination. Sometimes women continue to complain of headaches in the evenings. Due to the hormonal effect on the digestive system, a woman may experience heartburn, alternation of constipation and loose stools. And the property of progesterone to retain fluid in the tissues can cause physiological rhinitis in pregnant women; such rhinitis does not need separate treatment, as it goes away on its own.

Small sipping sensations in the lower back and back at 13 weeks can be considered quite acceptable, because the uterus grows, and the ligaments holding it stretch. If the lower back hurts and it pulls, and this does not last long, and also is not accompanied by abnormal discharge, then there is nothing to worry about.

Emergency medical attention should be sought if the pain is severe, increasing, cramping.

At 13 weeks, it becomes much easier to wear heavy and enlarged breasts. The mammary glands cease to bother a woman much: to ache, itch, itch. The active growth of glandular tissue is replaced by the preparation of the ducts for breastfeeding, and this process is not accompanied by pain, although colostrum may begin to be secreted. If the chest does not stop hurting this week, then you should be patient and wait another 7 days - usually by 14 weeks, the unpleasant symptoms completely recede.

Changes in the body

The main change in the female body at this time is the intensive growth of the body of the uterus. The size of the uterus has increased almost 4 times, the length of the uterus has grown by 10 centimeters. In multiparous women, the uterus is heavier, it grows faster, and therefore the main visual sign of pregnancy, the belly, appears faster. Women who are carrying twins already have an impressive belly.

The location of the uterus also changes. She has gone beyond the pelvis and is now in the abdominal cavity. The normal standing height of the fundus at 13 weeks is about 11-12 centimeters.

The uterus becomes softer, more elastic, it is normal, does not come to tone, which ensures its growth, and the amount of vaginal discharge also increases. Do not be afraid of this.

Light, white or yellowish discharge with a mild sour smell is considered completely normal for this period. However, a woman should be extremely vigilant and observe their character - any change in color, smell, consistency of vaginal secretions can be a sign of pathology.

Green and gray, as well as brown discharge of a foamy consistency with an unpleasant odor may indicate the presence of an infection, including genital. Thick white discharge, accompanied by a yeast odor and itching in the perineum, may indicate that a woman has a thrush. This does not happen often at 13 weeks, because thrush is a companion of early and late gestation, but such a probability is not completely excluded.

The amount of blood that circulates these days in the body of the expectant mother has increased by about 2 times. Now the load on the lungs, kidneys, and heart of a woman has doubled. This can be manifested by an exacerbation of chronic diseases of these organs, if a woman had such diseases before pregnancy. But even healthy pregnant women at this time feel an increased heart rate. Shortness of breath may occur with little exercise.

The breasts are now big and very beautiful. It is not spoiled even by the Montgomery tubercles protruding on the circles around the nipples and the darkening of the circles themselves. The nipples may turn white. This happens when the nipples are irritated by linen and a small amount of colostrum, which dries up, creates such a white color. Starting this week, you need to wash your nipples with warm water every evening to avoid inflammation and blockage of the passages.

Weight gain at 13 weeks varies. In general, it is considered normal if 2 to 4 kilograms are added to the woman's original body weight. The pregnancy hormone hCG is at its maximum, peak point. From the end of this week, the level of this hormone will begin to gradually decrease, and this process will continue until the very birth.

A woman whose pregnancy is now proceeding without complications looks very attractive. Mystery, spirituality and charm appear in her appearance. Her hair shines, her nails grow faster, and her skin becomes smoother and healthier. In some women this week, age spots begin to appear on the back, neck, arms. Freckles in women often become brighter, but even this does not spoil their amazing, feminine beauty.

Possible complications

The list of problems and risks that can threaten the expectant mother at the 13th obstetric week of pregnancy is noticeably decreasing. The likelihood of a miscarriage is now already low, as is the likelihood of a sudden unreasonable fetal freezing. But such risks cannot be completely ruled out. Below is a list of complications that pregnant women can face at 13 weeks.

Intrauterine growth retardation

Based on the results of the first ultrasound scan this week, the baby may be lagging behind in development. If no mistake is made with the timing of pregnancy, doctors will definitely try to find the true cause of the slowed growth of the fetus. A slight lag has nothing to do with the delay, but if the baby's parameters are 2 weeks less than the norm, the doctors talk about the probable IUGR - intrauterine growth retardation.

With a symmetrical delay, when all the proportions of the baby are reduced in relation to the norm in the same way, they consider versions such as inconsistency of the placenta or pathology of the umbilical cord, as a result of which the baby simply receives less nutrients and oxygen. A delay in fetal development can be observed in a hypertensive mother suffering from high blood pressure, heart and vascular diseases, as well as in a woman with chronic respiratory problems.

With an asymmetric delay, when a certain size is in a clear disproportion with the rest, the version of the baby's malformations, including genetic ones, is most likely considered. The reason may lie not only in a chromosomal disease, for example, in Down's syndrome, but also in defects in the structure of the kidneys, heart, if something went wrong during the laying of these organs.

The reason that the baby grows more slowly than his peers may be the woman's insufficient nutrition, a deficiency of vitamins in her body, as well as bad habits: smoking, alcohol, drugs.

Often, with a slowdown in growth, the baby "reacts" to infectious diseases transferred by the mother in the first trimester.

Non-developing pregnancy

A missed miscarriage or missed pregnancy can occur at any time up to 28 weeks. With an increase in the term, the likelihood of such a sad outcome decreases. Doctors noticed that most often the fetus stops in development and dies at an early stage - from 3 to 4 weeks, then during the transition from the embryonic to fetal phase of development - from 8 to 10 weeks. The third "dangerous" period starts at 16 and lasts up to 18 weeks. Despite the fact that 13 weeks is not included in these periods, the likelihood of fetal freezing is real at this time.

Symptoms may or may not be present. In this case, only 2-3 weeks after the death of the baby, the first signs may appear: brown "daub", pulling pains, all signs of miscarriage. If pure blood has gone, then this may indicate that a miscarriage has taken place. But most often, a frozen pregnancy is found on an ultrasound scan, which is done this week.

Any unfavorable factors that a woman has undergone can lead to the death of a child: infections, taking medications that are not allowed during pregnancy, malformations of the placenta, bad habits, a sudden "jump" of hormones.

Isthmic-cervical insufficiency

Such a pathology is said if the cervix of the uterus begins to shorten and flatten before the due time. The task of this part of the reproductive female organ during pregnancy is to tightly close the entrance to the uterus, not to allow the child to leave it prematurely. If the cervix is ​​insufficient, there is a threat of termination of pregnancy. If now the cervix does not cope with its task, the child will die, because he still cannot live on his own, outside the mother's womb.

The pathology has no symptoms, a woman may not feel anything unusual, and only on an ultrasound scan at 12-13 weeks, the doctor can detect pathological changes in the cervix. The causes of the phenomenon can be different: from congenital features of the cervix to traumatic changes caused by abortion or gynecological operations associated with mechanical expansion of the cervix. Often, pathology develops in women who have undergone a difficult birth before.

There are a lot of treatment methods for cervical shortening. The short neck, of course, cannot lengthen, but it can be fixed by suturing or installing an obstetric pessary. In most cases, a woman is quite happily able to deliver the baby to the deadline.

Hypercoagulable syndrome

Thickening of the blood or hypercoagulable syndrome this week can be detected by the results of a coagulogram - an analysis that determines blood clotting. He is assigned to pregnant women when registering. A woman's blood can become too thick due to an increased load on all organs and systems, primarily on the heart and blood vessels. If a woman during the first trimester was tormented by severe toxicosis with vomiting and intoxication, then the risk of hypercoagulability syndrome is great.

At the beginning of the second trimester, hypercoagulation can occur in every second woman, and, in most cases, it is considered as a variant of the norm. The body of a pregnant woman begins to gradually and in advance prepare for childbirth. To prevent heavy bleeding, the blood coagulation system begins to work in new conditions.

At the first detection, doctors will prescribe monitoring of the state of the blood. If increased coagulability is found in the future, then the woman will be prescribed treatment. Thick blood can be dangerous in the first place with an increased likelihood of thrombosis, premature aging of the placenta.

At 13 weeks, it is not worth sounding the alarm, the revealed hypercoagulation may be physiological.

Analyzes and examinations

If the screening has already taken place a week earlier, then no tests will be scheduled this week. If the referral for prenatal diagnosis was issued at 13 weeks, then the woman will have to donate blood from a vein and do an ultrasound scan on the same day - these are the prerequisites for passing the first screening.

The objective of this study is to identify women at risk in terms of the likelihood of giving birth to a baby with chromosomal abnormalities. In the blood of a pregnant woman, the quantitative ratio of the hCG hormone and the plasma protein PAPP-A will be assessed. On ultrasound, in addition to assessing the general development and examination of the internal organs of the fetus, they will pay close attention to the so-called markers of chromosomal abnormalities - visual signs of abnormalities. Down's syndrome and a number of other diseases, the risks of which are assessed during screening, for example, thickening of the collar space is characteristic - folds on the back of the neck.

Most genetic pathologies are characterized by flattening and deformation of the facial bones; on ultrasound, this can be traced by the size of the nasal bones.

The norm of the collar space and the length of the nasal bones in a supposedly healthy baby at this time is as follows:

Alone, the ultrasound and blood test results say little. Only the summary information, which is processed by a special computer program, gives an idea of ​​how high the likelihood of having a sick child is. It is expressed in a fraction - 1: 3000 or 1: 350. This fraction means that the chance of giving birth to a child with one or another chromosomal abnormality in a woman with similar indicators is 1 in 3000 or 350 births. Risks in the region of 1: 100 are considered to be high risks.

“Bad” screening - what to do?

If screening shows increased risks of having a sick baby, then you should not panic, because the results of prenatal diagnostics are just a prognosis, and not a diagnosis. Any negative "findings" on ultrasound or in the laboratory are the basis for a visit to a geneticist. This specialist will once again check all the data and can recommend the woman to undergo an additional examination, which will be able to answer with great accuracy the question of whether the child has chromosomal abnormalities and abnormalities.

In such situations, invasive diagnosis is recommended - chorionic biopsy, a little later - amniocentesis. Using a special long needle through a puncture in the anterior abdominal wall, amniotic fluid (during amniocentesis) or chorionic particles is taken for analysis. DNA is used to determine if the child has anomalies.

These methods are very informative, but unsafe for the mother and fetus. The procedure can result in infection of the membranes, miscarriage, mechanical injury to the child. Modern medicine offers an alternative - a non-invasive DNA test.

In a sample of venous blood of the expectant mother, fetal erythrocytes are found, which begin to get there from about 8-9 weeks of pregnancy, from which the child's DNA is removed. The procedure is no different from a regular blood test and does not harm the fetus and mother in any way, but it is expensive - several tens of thousands of rubles.

After additional diagnostics show the true picture, it will be the woman herself and her close people who will decide what will happen next with this pregnancy.

If the baby has pathologies, then the woman is advised to terminate the pregnancy for medical reasons. But she has the right and deliberately to refuse it. In this case, the pregnancy continues, as usual, and if necessary, both the mother and the baby are provided with supportive therapy.

As in the first trimester, all basic recommendations remain in force, the observance of which will help a woman to calmly inform and give birth to a healthy baby. These are daily walks in the fresh air, healthy food, healthy lifestyle. Only a few items can be added to the list of recommendations this week.

Calcium

Since the requirements for this mineral increase with the onset of fetal bone growth, it is now advisable to talk to your doctor about the possibility of taking additional calcium supplements. You shouldn't buy them at the pharmacy and start drinking on your own. If a woman does not have a calcium deficiency, then such actions can lead to an excess of the mineral, which is fraught with complications with the kidneys and metabolism.

The doctor saw the results of a biochemical analysis of the woman's blood, he knows exactly how much calcium is in her blood. If an additional amount of the mineral is needed, he will recommend calcium preparations and indicate in what dosage it should be taken.

All pregnant women need to include calcium-rich foods in their diet this week. These include cottage cheese, milk, dairy products, sea fish, fresh herbs, spinach, nuts. In most cases, this allows you to collect the required amount of an important substance without pharmaceutical preparations.

Sex

Sex this week is not contraindicated if the woman does not have a threat of marginal chorionic presentation and other complications that can lead to miscarriage. There is no need to be shy, because the question of whether it is possible to live an active sex life, be sure to ask the attending physician at this time. If everything is fine, then he will have nothing against it.

Sex helps a woman feel better: it stabilizes the emotional and psychological background, improves family relationships. However, now you should carefully consider your own feelings and the choice of posture. All positions with deep penetration, as well as the use of lubricants, are now prohibited.

Nutrition

If a woman has a stomach ache or pain in her left side or right hypochondrium, it is important to consult a doctor in time and adjust her diet. At the 13th week, you can not eat carbonated drinks, fried, salty, fatty, smoked meats and marinades. The more vegetables and fruits in the diet of the expectant mother, the better. The intestines begin to be squeezed by the growing uterus and needs fiber, which will prevent constipation and hemorrhoids.

Diseases and medicines

If all the security measures did not help, and the woman still fell ill with a cold or SARS at 13 weeks, you should not worry too much. The baby is already formed, the likelihood that the temperature and the drugs taken will have a negative effect on him is not as high as in the first trimester. The placenta is already coping with barrier functions. This does not negate consultation with a doctor, and all medications should only be taken as directed.

This week, you can go to the dentist and heal all problem teeth, if necessary. X-rays are also prohibited, but gentle anesthesia is already acceptable.

So, what changes are taking place in the body of the expectant mother during this period? The thirteenth week of pregnancy for many women is like a breath of fresh air. Physical well-being improves and mood rises, new strengths and a desire to create appear. In addition, the threat of miscarriage has practically passed and the most difficult period has already passed. Now there is no need to be afraid for the life of your child.

Toxicosis at the 13th week of pregnancy practically does not bother, so women can pay due attention to communicating with the child. It is communication, because at this time the baby already hears, feels pain and even smells. Read fairy tales aloud to him or talk to him, the sound of mother's voice is very calming for the baby.

What does a baby look like at 13 weeks of gestation? At this stage, the baby's head is disproportionately large. But now bone tissue begins to actively form and the body grows accordingly. The limbs are also noticeably enlarged. From this point on, the fetus begins to acquire the characteristics of a child. The face becomes the correct shape, the wide-set eyes move, and a nose is formed.

At this stage, the fetus is still very small, about 7-8 cm, and it weighs from 15 to 25 g.

During this period, almost all the internal organs of the child are formed.... Now they are gradually starting to function. The pancreas begins to produce insulin, and the entire digestive system starts working. The kidneys gradually acquire the ability to urinate. In the nasal mucosa, the olfactory epithelium is formed, with the help of which the child distinguishes smells.

The fetus has already formed the rudiments of milk teeth, which will begin to erupt some time after its birth. The baby begins to make the first breathing movements. They are still timid and irregular, but these are only the first attempts. In addition, the child "breathes" amniotic fluid.

At the 13th week of pregnancy, the size of the fetus is still very small, so an ultrasound scan will not be able to accurately determine the sex of the baby. At this time, sexual differentiation is just beginning to occur. In boys, the prostate gland forms and the genital tubercle lengthens into the penis. In girls, the ovaries form and the genital tubercle becomes the clitoris.

At this time, not only the body develops, but also the psyche of the baby. He can feel the touch on his mother's belly, hears the sound of her voice, and even knows how to smile and frown. He can already express emotions in his own way. If the mother eats spicy food or smokes, this affects the amniotic fluid - it becomes bitter. Then the child frowns and thus expresses his displeasure.

Changes in the mother's body

During this period, the woman's belly is rounded, and the waist is smoothed.... If you wear loose-fitting clothes, your tummy will not be very noticeable, so it's time to stock up on maternity clothes. In addition, clothing that is tight and squeezed can be harmful to the health of both the mother and the baby.

There is no significant weight gain at 13 weeks... In general, a large set of kilograms is not typical for the first trimester. But still, the growing fetus and the changed hormonal background gradually spur the body to gain weight.

To find out if your weight is within the normal range or not, you can use the weight gain calculator. You need to enter your personal data into it. Typically, these are height, weight and week of pregnancy. It will give you the average weight gain for that period.

But still, a more accurate assessment is given by the doctor, because there are many individual factors, such as the amount of amniotic fluid, etc. More details on this topic can be found in the article "weight gain during pregnancy by weeks".

At the 13th obstetric week of pregnancy, abdominal sensations can be very diverse. With a perfectly flowing pregnancy, you should not feel pain or cramps.... But not every woman can boast of such health.

• As a rule, the first abdominal pains appear due to indigestion. If abdominal pain is accompanied by constipation, you need to change your diet. Naturally, a pregnant woman should eat right from the first days of conception. But in the case of a stool disorder, you will have to exclude many foods from the diet. Such as fresh white bread, all legumes, baked goods, pears, quince, rice porridge and other bonding products.
• If it hurts on the sides of the abdomen and these pains are rare, unobtrusive and do not bring much discomfort, this may indicate a sprain of the ligaments that hold the uterus.
• Drawing pains in the lower abdomen may indicate tone. If they are often bothersome and last for a long time, you should definitely see a doctor. And in case of sharp severe pain anywhere in the abdominal cavity, rush to the hospital or call a doctor.

At the end of the first trimester, the discharge may remain unchanged, or may slightly change character... If they become more liquid or more voluminous, no need to worry, this is normal. It is worth being wary if the discharge has changed color, structure or smell. For example, there are clumps or blotches of various colors, such as thick white flakes or blood clots.

Bad smell is also indicative of health problems.... In this case, you do not need to self-medicate, you can lose precious time, you just need to see a doctor. He will calm you down and prescribe the correct treatment, which will definitely help.

Thick brown discharge at 13 weeks gestation should be considered a type of spotting. If they are not accompanied by pain, you do not need to sound the alarm, just inform your doctor about it at the next examination. Sometimes discharge can be associated with harmless erosion.

At the thirteenth week of pregnancy, expectant mothers finally stabilize hormonal levels. They cease to be bothered by sudden mood swings, which were expressed in outbursts of aggression or in tearfulness and sentimentality. Women feel a surge of strength and energy.

Analyzes and examinations at 13 weeks of pregnancy

The time of the first ultrasound is chosen and appointed by the attending physician. The optimal time for it is considered the interval between the tenth and fourteenth weeks.... If the doctor orders an ultrasound at 13 weeks, you can see how the child moves, flexes and unbends the arms. Also, the doctor will assess the condition of the woman's uterus, the position of the fetus, the condition of the placenta and the approximate due date.

Ultrasound is also necessary to identify pathologies, or to make sure that there are no pathologies, and the pregnancy is proceeding normally. Usually, such studies are carried out three times during the entire pregnancy. More information about ultrasound is described in the article “How often can you do an ultrasound during pregnancy”.

At this stage of fetal development, as a rule, you do not need to take any routine tests. But they can be prescribed by a doctor, if he sees fit. Visits to the doctor for routine check-ups should be stable. Even if the expectant mother is feeling well, one should not miss the scheduled examination.

Possible health problems

At the end of the first trimester, women may experience such an unpleasant problem as thrush.... This is a fungal disease that occurs after stress or a drop in immunity. Often it is in a passive, "dormant" state and manifests itself only when favorable conditions arise for it. The hormonal surges and excitement that pregnant women so often experience are quite suitable in order to provoke the appearance of thrush. It is expressed in white cheesy discharge and itching or burning. Talk to your healthcare professional at the first sign of these symptoms. There are now many safe thrush medications that can be used during pregnancy.

Doctors do not associate this gestational age with the risk of miscarriage.... But depending on the individual characteristics or the stress experienced, a woman may begin various negative changes in the body.

In case of bleeding and sharp pain in the abdomen, urgently call an ambulance. Do not try to endure the pain, sometimes the timely help of a doctor can save the life of you and your child. To keep yourself and your baby safe, read about —the risk of miscarriage—.

If you have been diagnosed with uterine tone and have not been put on hold, try to live as calmly as possible. Do not expose yourself to great physical exertion and try not to be nervous if possible. These simple tips are good for all pregnant women, but should be a must for those with tonicity.

Recommendations for personal care and proper nutrition

• At the end of the first trimester, the expectant mother's belly begins to grow.... Some women perceive this joyful event painfully and worry about the state of their figure. But there is no need to worry about this, this process is reversible, and after giving birth, within a short time, the tummy will return to its previous shape. For this to happen, you need to adhere to several rules. First, you shouldn't overeat.... The statement that a pregnant woman should eat for two is a lie. It was invented by overly caring grandmothers. Secondly, you need to start using cream for stretch marks. already at this stage of pregnancy.

• As for cosmetics, it should only be natural and not cause allergies. If, against the background of pregnancy, a woman has increased dry skin, you can make masks at home using glycerin or natural oils. There are also many natural remedies available to cleanse oily skin. It is not advisable to dye your hair during pregnancy, many dyes are quite toxic.
• You need to eat correctly, balanced, and in no case eat through force. Also, a woman should listen to her body, and there is what it requires. Of course, if this food can be consumed by pregnant women. The diet of the expectant mother should contain lean meat, preferably boiled... But it is better to eat fatty fish, it contains a lot of amino acids and vitamins that have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. Also, we must not forget about vegetables and fruits. Carbohydrates are another important component of your diet. The most beneficial are the substances found in rice, potatoes and pasta made from durum wheat.

It is categorically impossible to use such "chemistry" as chips, crackers, soda, energy drinks, etc. You should also avoid any food with a lot of dyes and flavors. Coffee should be consumed with great care, but it is better to refuse it altogether.

• Sex at the 13th week of pregnancy is brighter and more pleasant for a woman. If the attending physician did not recommend abstaining, then it is possible and even necessary to make love. Stabilizing hormonal levels increases attraction and sensitivity. This period of pregnancy becomes the most sexually active period for many couples. For now, a small tummy does not hinder movement, and a woman can actively have sex. In addition, it contributes to an increase in mood, which is simply necessary for a pregnant woman.

It is difficult to avoid all ailments during pregnancy. Sometimes a woman may have a headache, what to do in this case? Try not to take any pills, especially those containing aspirin. Almost all known headache medications are contraindicated in pregnant women. Therefore, try to use sparing folk remedies.

Apply a cool compress, ventilate the room, and try to lie down and get some rest. Choose dark, well-ventilated areas for relaxation. If you have had headaches before pregnancy, and there is a chance that they will continue, consult with your doctor about what remedies for dealing with migraines are right for you.

Exercises for moms

• A warm-up and an integral part of gymnastics for pregnant women is walking with deep breathing. Start by walking in circles and taking deep breaths.
• Take a few steps on your heels and a few steps on your toes. Then - a few steps, leaning on the outside of the foot, and a few steps, curling the toes.
• Now walk around, raising your knee high, but without touching your stomach.
• You can also make bends forward and backward, but not with sudden movements, but gradually lowering and rising.
• There are several exercises you can do while lying down... Lie on your right side with your right hand extended in front of you. Put the left one on your belt. As you inhale, lift your pelvis slightly, resting on your right shoulder and legs. As you exhale, return to the starting position.
• The cat's back exercise will strengthen the muscles of the abdomen and back. Get on all fours and arch your back, then arch it. So, alternating these positions, do several times.

• Do not engage in strenuous physical activity, especially lifting dumbbells or barbells.

Video about 13 weeks pregnant

This video will give you some interesting and useful information about the thirteenth week of pregnancy. You will learn how the fetus develops at this time, and what changes occur in the mother's body.

I ask expectant mothers to describe their feelings from staying for this period. Tell us how your pregnancy is going. Did you do your first ultrasound, and how do you feel about screening. Also, the advice of already established mothers will be very valuable for all readers.

The obstetric 13th week of pregnancy is the moment when the fetus is so formed that it can be observed by conducting prenatal screening in order to exclude intrauterine pathologies and check the degree of development of the future crumbs. The baby's body becomes more perfect, and he is able to perform more functions.

In the maternal body, hormonal levels begin to stabilize, appetite improves, toxicosis and nausea pass. At this point, a woman needs to start monitoring her diet and psychological mood, since it is these factors that are decisive for the formation of the psyche of the crumbs and the absence of other disorders that may appear at this stage if medical recommendations are not followed.

Introduction

If we consider the thirteenth week as embryonic, then it will serve as the end of the first trimester, and if as obstetric, then it should be attributed already to the beginning of the second trimester. The risks of miscarriage during this period are minimal. If bearing the fetus takes place in a calm environment, then no problems at this stage usually arise.

Therefore, in order for this period to pass without complications and bring only positive emotions, the expectant mother must eat right, have a positive attitude and listen to what the gynecologist tells her.

13 weeks pregnant: what's going on

Thirteen weeks is a period of prosperity and improvement in the emotional state of the expectant mother. Such dramatic changes are explained by the fact that hormones return to normal and the restructuring of the body associated with them ends.

First of all, toxicosis completely disappears at the 13th week of pregnancy, severe nausea and vomiting go away, smells no longer irritate, and sudden changes in mood cease to bother. Now a woman can enjoy her condition and radiate positive.

Of course, sometimes nausea may still appear at the thirteenth week of pregnancy, but it will be episodic and should not cause any concern. The most dangerous three months have already been left behind, and now the threat of miscarriage is minimized.

Symptoms and sensations

Toxicosis and emotional instability went away, but they were replaced by new symptoms of 13 weeks of pregnancy, which are presented:

• Gastrointestinal problems, constipation and heartburn - the appearance of such symptoms is associated with a sharp increase in the uterus located next to the digestive system, as well as with the fact that progesterone at 13 weeks of gestation increases and weakens the intestinal tone, leading to problems with defecation.
• Cramps in the lower limbs and discomfort in the calves - due to the fact that the abdomen increases, the expectant mother's gait changes, and the load on the joints and muscles increases, causing fatigue and pain after long walks.
• Uterine tone - heaviness in the abdomen at 13 weeks of gestation is caused by an enlargement of the uterus and stretching of its ligaments. However, if severe pain appears during this period, you should consult a doctor and undergo a course of treatment.
• Decrease or increase in blood pressure indicators - often pregnant women complain of low blood pressure, weakness and dizziness. But in some cases, it can increase, causing migraines and tachycardia.
• Thrush - since pregnancy leads to a decrease in immunity, the body is unable to control the state of the microflora, as a result of which candida fungi begin to multiply at an accelerated rate, causing itching, burning and cheesy vaginal discharge. A specialist will help get rid of this problem by prescribing the appropriate treatment.

External changes at the 13th week of pregnancy

13 weeks after conceiving a baby is the beginning of the second trimester. At this time, the "interesting situation" is already beginning to become noticeable to others. At the thirteenth week of pregnancy, the abdomen enlarges and thickens in the lower part.

Now the expectant mother needs to start thinking about updating her wardrobe and replacing tight things with more loose ones. It is also worth giving up heels, replacing them with comfortable shoes with low soles. As the woman's weight increases and the center of gravity shifts, the expectant mother begins to suffer pain in her legs, as the load on them increases.

From this time on, the abdomen rapidly increases in size, which leads to stretching of the skin. Stretch marks begin to appear on the hips, chest and abdomen. To prevent their appearance, it is necessary to monitor the weight gain, preventing strong weight gain, and also use special products for expectant mothers that increase skin turgor and prevent the appearance of stretch marks.

Also, under hormonal influence, the mammary glands change. They are preparing for their direct responsibility - producing milk and raising offspring. In some women, age spots begin to appear. However, they are not at all a reason for complexes, such changes are temporary and they will disappear after the baby is born.

You can also find out what happens at the 14th week of pregnancy, what changes await you, symptoms and sensations, as well as the diet for expectant mothers and the recommendations of doctors. All the information you need can be found in this article.

Vaginal discharge at 13 weeks gestation

Allocation at 13 weeks of gestation should be transparent, odorless, of medium abundance. You should definitely follow them, as they will be able to tell not only about the health of the mother's body, but also about how the child is feeling.

If their consistency, shade or smell has changed, you should immediately consult a specialist. They may indicate the appearance of infectious diseases, which, without proper treatment, can seriously harm the child.

13 weeks pregnant: Fetal development

What does a fetus look like at 13 weeks of gestation? At this time, the child has the size of a medium peach. Its height is 78 millimeters, and its weight is about 20 grams. The rapid development of the baby, which began from the moment of conception, continues. The systems and organs laid down earlier are also being improved.

Looking at the ultrasound scan, mommy cannot believe that the baby was just a normal balastocyst a few months ago. The fetal head begins to shrink, acquiring a more proportional size in comparison with the body. Also, other parts of the fetus' body acquire the necessary proportions.

The main changes taking place with a child for a period of thirteen weeks include:

• The finally formed gallbladder, which begins to perform all the functions assigned to it, including the production of bile. The pancreas produces insulin, which is responsible for the processing of glucose in the human body;
• The muscular system, which the fetus strengthens through active movement in the uterus. At this stage, they are chaotic and appear only when the baby is awake;
• The face of the little one is almost formed. With each new day, it starts to look more and more like mom, dad or, perhaps, one of the close relatives. When the baby is born, the similarity will be noticeable immediately. The eyes, which were previously located on either side of the head, now take their standard place. In the baby, the sucking reflex is finally improved, and also the facial muscles and milk teeth are laid;
• The heart of the fetus works in an enhanced mode, distilling about 20 liters per day;
• The brain continues to develop and grooves appear on it, which will soon become future convolutions;

A few more weeks and the baby will acquire the final resemblance to a full-fledged little person.

Threats of the thirteenth week of pregnancy

Although a miscarriage at 13 weeks of gestation can hardly be considered a threat to this period, there are other negative factors that can affect the health of mom and baby.

Painful sensations - minor pain sensations at this time are often caused by the tone of the uterus. They are of a short-term nature, as they are caused by stretching of the uterine ligaments and the organ itself as a result of the growth of the crumbs. However, if these sensations are prolonged, and the pain is significant, the expectant mother should not ignore this symptomatology and it is better to immediately consult a gynecologist, especially if there are cramps, as with menstrual flow, or spotting at the thirteenth week of pregnancy.

Also at this time, pain may occur in:

• Lower limbs, or rather, in the calf muscles - this indicates a lack of calcium.
• Gastrointestinal tract - such a problem appears due to an increased level of progesterone, which relaxes the intestines and leads to disruptions in its work.
• Head - migraines can haunt the expectant mother as a result of increased blood circulation and increased blood pressure.
• Lumbar - Back pain appears due to the increased load on the spinal column as a result of the enlarged abdomen.

All these problems should not be ignored, and if unpleasant sensations appear, it is best to consult a specialist and stop them.

13 weeks pregnant: High fever and SARS

During pregnancy, it is extremely difficult to avoid ailments of colds etiology, since expectant mothers have reduced immunity. Therefore, if the bearing of the fetus falls in the fall or winter, then it is unlikely that it will be possible to avoid a cold.

The complexity of the treatment of such ailments lies in the fact that pregnant women cannot use many drugs, and, accordingly, the disease progresses rapidly and gives serious complications - from early childbirth to intrauterine pathologies.

What does a future mom need to do to avoid ARVI at 13 weeks of gestation?

Dress for the weather and avoid visiting crowded places. Vitamin complexes should be taken to support the body's defenses. When cold symptoms appear, it is necessary to use harmless folk remedies that will help to quickly overcome the ailment. When a high temperature appears, you need to call a therapist who will prescribe treatment with drugs that are safe for the baby.

It should be noted that the temperature indicators at this time can be subfebrile and be 37.5 degrees. If there are no signs of a cold, then don't worry. It is impossible to bring down the high temperature of pregnant women with paracetamol-based drugs. It is best to call a doctor and ask him to prescribe a remedy that is safe for the child.

Bleeding at 13 weeks gestation

A sudden onset of bleeding speaks of the threat of a breakdown, however, timely assistance will save the unborn baby. Those women who found suspicious bleeding in themselves and consulted a doctor in a timely manner after undergoing treatment calmly walk the remaining two trimesters. Therefore, if bleeding occurs, you should immediately seek help and then everything will be fine.

Hemorrhage that occurs at a period of thirteen weeks can be caused by the following pathologies:

• Placental abruption or its presentation;
• Hematoma on the placenta;
• Mechanical damage to the walls of the vagina or cervix during sexual intercourse;
• The lack of elasticity of the vascular walls, which, under the pressure of the uterus, begins to burst.

A specialist will help to clarify the cause of the bleeding, he will also send the expectant mother for ultrasound and other diagnostics. Usually, at this time, a woman with a threat of miscarriage is placed in a hospital in order to constantly monitor her condition, and when it stabilizes, she is discharged home.

Ultrasound at the 13th week of pregnancy

An ultrasound scan at 13 weeks of gestation is routine and is prescribed by a gynecologist along with other screenings. This is the first ultrasound examination that will allow a specialist to record the basic parameters of a baby's development and find out if they meet the established standards. In addition, the uzist will be able to tell the mother the exact gestational age, tell about the size of the unborn baby and determine the sex of the baby at the thirteenth week of pregnancy.

A woman will be able to examine her child in detail: from the limbs, spinal column and head to how his heart beats. If you wish, you can ask the doctor to take a photo of the crumbs, which, by the way, allows you to assess the presence of pathologies and congenital defects, if any. If they are suspected, the expectant mother will be sent for examination to confirm or deny the diagnosis.

Tests at 13 weeks of pregnancy

In addition to ultrasound, the expectant mother will be sent for analysis, which allows to identify genetic abnormalities at the chromosome level.

She will also need to undergo the following screenings:

• To the progesterone level - the concentration of this secretory element in the blood of a pregnant woman, informs about the health of the future baby. With the help of this analysis, it is possible to identify a frozen pregnancy, preeclampsia and delays in the development of the fetus.
• Choriotropin concentration - HCG at 13 weeks gestation is an indicator that the fetus is developing normally. The level of this hormone in the female body begins to increase after ovulation and fertilization of the egg. By the concentration of choriotropin in the blood, a woman can find out about pregnancy by conducting a test. The hCG level should constantly increase, and if its extinction is noticed, then the fetus turned out to be unviable and died.
• For protein alpha-fetoprotein - with its help, it is possible to identify chromosomal pathologies in the fetus, if any.
• On estradiol - this screening is prescribed for women who have had miscarriages. The concentration of this secretory element will allow you to find out about the state of the placenta and the presence of a threat of miscarriage.

Based on the results of all the above studies, the gynecologist will be able to conclude about the course of pregnancy at this stage.

13 weeks pregnant: Diet

Every mom-to-be knows that her baby receives everything necessary for growth and development from her body. Therefore, nutrition at the 13th week of pregnancy should be balanced, healthy and natural. With its help, the fetus will be able to grow and develop normally, as well as avoid the development of many serious pathologies. For this reason, a woman should take this factor into account when drawing up her diet.

Nutritionists advise pregnant women for this period to compose their menu according to the scheme of proper nutrition. It should contain only natural products, represented by herbs, cereals, nuts, vegetables, lean meat and fish, fruits and dairy products. You will also need to replenish your diet with bran, beets, vegetable purees and seaweed. Alcohol, coffee and strong tea should be completely excluded.

For a period of thirteen weeks, the expectant mother should comply with the following recommendations:

• Wear comfortable shoes and maternity clothing ... Particular attention should be paid to the abdominal area, it should not be pinched, therefore tight jeans and dresses should be temporarily excluded from your wardrobe. The same applies to linen. You need to switch to collections for expectant mothers;
• Avoid stress and negativity ... Since the baby already hears the voice of the mother and reacts to sounds, she should not be nervous and screaming. You should communicate only on positive topics and listen to calm, beautiful and melodic classical music as often as possible;
• Strengthen the body's defenses ... Strengthening the immune system is necessary in order to protect your body from infections. To do this, you need to wash your hands after walking, spend time in the fresh air, have more rest, avoid large crowds and take vitamin complexes;
• Do not self-medicate ... If the expectant mother finds any suspicious symptoms in herself, she should seek medical help, since self-medication can harm the fetus or even cause an abortion.

You should also enroll in courses for expectant mothers. You can find out about them in your antenatal clinic or from the gynecologist leading the pregnancy.

Sex at 13 weeks pregnant

Sex at the 13th week of pregnancy is a personal matter that a married couple should both condemn. If bearing a fetus proceeds normally and there are no contraindications, then gynecologists allow an intimate life at this time.

If during the first trimester a number of restrictions were established due to hormonal imbalance and the possible threat of miscarriage, now they are absent. The mom-to-be is already fully accustomed to the "neighborhood" with the baby and therefore sex will no longer cause her negativity, as it was before.

But if the doctor has established restrictions or banned intimate life altogether, it should be excluded so as not to harm the unborn baby.

Conclusion

The 13th week of pregnancy is a responsible and important stage for both the expectant mother and the baby. During this period, you should attend scheduled appointments at the antenatal clinic, eat right, avoid negativity, and, of course, enjoy the feeling of imminent motherhood, then the whole pregnancy will go smoothly and a healthy little baby will be born.

Hooray! At the end of the first trimester of pregnancy: nasty toxicosis and constant drowsiness behind! But the most important thing, perhaps, is that during these long 13 weeks the baby in your belly has done a tremendous job on himself. What happens to the fetus at the 13th obstetric week of pregnancy and what metamorphoses your body continues to undergo, we will discuss in the article.

The heart of the crumbs works tirelessly: it already passes 23 liters of blood through itself per day! In addition, the baby gets a full set of milk teeth. But these are not all of his achievements! A fundamental laying of the fetal digestive system occurs: villi begin to form in the intestines for processing and moving food, and the pancreas already secretes insulin. Also, by this time, the baby's vocal apparatus begins to take shape.

At the 13th week of pregnancy, the fetus "chooses" who he will be born with - a girl or a boy. There is an active differentiation of the child's genitals: at this stage of development, the protrusion and lengthening of the genital tubercle (later it turns into a penis) or its bending downward with the subsequent formation of the clitoris occurs. Simultaneously, depending on gender, sex cells appear or the prostate gland begins to develop.

Of course, expectant mothers are very worried about whether the sex of the child is determined at 13 weeks of pregnancy? Yes it is possible. If the child is in a good position, experienced diagnosticians can tell you with confidence that you are expecting a boy. In the case of girls, alas, sometimes mistakes happen. The fact is that at this time, the future clitoris is very similar to the penis. The doctor will be able to confirm or deny his verdict about the sex of the baby at the next scheduled ultrasound scan.

One quick glance at the ultrasound photo at the 13th week of pregnancy is enough to understand that the baby's face has acquired more expressive features. Eyes, nose and mouth are clearly visible. And he himself has changed a lot - "matured"! At 13 weeks of gestation, the size of the fetus from the tailbone to the crown ranges from 7 to 8 cm, and the weight can vary from 15 to 25 g.

The child also made a big leap forward in the emotional sphere: he actively learns his environment. The baby sensitively absorbs sounds from the outside world that reach her mother's belly, distinguishes well between darkness and light, and reacts to touching the belly. He has already learned to grimace, has mastered the sucking and swallowing movements, and yawns amusingly. The "belly" does not sleep very much - he falls asleep for a few minutes and wakes up again. This is how most of the day passes in wakefulness. At the same time, the movements of the fetus are devoid of the previous chaos, but, on the contrary, have acquired a certain direction, concentration and orderliness. The fact that the child is warm, calm and comfortable in his mother's belly, he announces with his smile, into which every now and then his mouth folds.

At the 13th week of pregnancy, the baby becomes a gourmet: he already knows how to distinguish the taste and smell of the food that his mother eats. He loves something, but from some products that the baby does not like, the pregnant woman is frankly sick.

The kid is finally "ripe" for direct communication with his mother. And if at the 13th week of pregnancy you have not yet started singing songs to him and talking about how you are waiting for him, it's time to start.

13 weeks pregnant: what happens to mom

The golden mean of pregnancy begins - the second trimester. Toxicosis receded, and the hormonal storm finally calmed down. The body has successfully coped with the task - it has adapted in the best way to the baby that grows in it.

But now is not the time for mommy to sit idly by: you need to come to grips with your health, namely the prevention of constipation, edema and, of course, stretch marks. The metamorphoses that occur with the appearance of a woman are also obvious. The waist gradually disappears, and instead the outlines of a rounded tummy appear. You can safely go shopping for clothes for pregnant women. You need to take a very responsible approach to choosing a bra: it should ideally fit in size and reliably support the grown breasts due to wide straps. At the 13th week of pregnancy, the bust of the pregnant woman continues to increase. New volumes may differ from the previous, "native" size by 2 or even 4 times!

Uterus at 13 weeks pregnant

At the 13th week of pregnancy, the uterus slowly but surely increases in size, and, filling the entire hip region, rises up in the direction of the abdominal. Naturally, the organs located there do not like the new neighborhood, so the pregnant woman has to experience such manifestations of internal "confrontation" as heartburn and shortness of breath. The uterus is already easily palpable, and the doctor determines and fixes the height of its bottom at each scheduled examination. The norm in centimeters is equal to the number of weeks. This means that at 13 weeks of "interesting" position, the height of the uterus is 13 cm, and the width is 10. By this time, the organ becomes soft and elastic, so there is no need to be afraid of tone. If the uterus contracts, it is only for a short time.

Belly at 13 weeks pregnant

Here's what the tummies of expectant mothers look like at 13 weeks of pregnancy in the photo:

In very thin women, the belly at the 13th week of pregnancy has just begun to show through, while in others, a noticeably rounded belly protrudes proudly under the clothes. When the uterus is constrained by a tone, the expectant mother needs to carefully monitor her feelings. So, in order to get rid of the pulling feeling and pain in the lower abdomen, it is enough to lie down for 15 - 20 minutes and relax, thinking about good things or communicating with the baby. If cases of forced rest have become more frequent, you must definitely inform your doctor about this. In some cases, alas, you cannot do without medication. A pregnant woman may be prescribed papaverine rectal suppositories or Ginipral tablets. These drugs quickly relieve uterine tone and are absolutely harmless to the health of the baby and mother.

However, many women can safely do without medication. You just need to not provoke the uterus to "strain" over trifles: down with high heels, heavy bags from the supermarket and groundless excitement.

A pregnant woman can also feel discomfort in the abdomen due to the accumulation of a large amount of gas in the intestines. To neutralize this problem, you need to determine which food product the body reacts to in a similar way.

Pain at 13 weeks of gestation

At the 13th week of pregnancy, the feeling of discomfort on the sides of the rounded abdomen is quite natural: it hurts, because the muscles that hold the uterus stretch, and it itself grows all the time. These pains are not dangerous at all.

If a pregnant woman suffers from painful cramps that constrict the calf muscles of the legs, this indicates a calcium deficiency in the tissues of her body. Typically, seizures most often occur in the evening or at night. The fix is ​​easy: Increase the amount of plant-based sources of calcium you eat per day, including broccoli, sweet potatoes, legumes, dried figs, sesame seeds, hazelnuts, and almonds. You should not get carried away with calcium-containing products of animal origin, otherwise the fontanel will quickly ossify in the baby, and this complicates the baby's passage through the birth canal during childbirth.

Colds at 13 weeks pregnant

Cold symptoms are obvious: headache, dry and painful sore throat, aching joints, runny nose, fever. Unfortunately, a pregnant woman becomes a vulnerable target for influenza, so the expectant mother should, if possible, bypass crowded places, especially during an exacerbation of seasonal viral diseases. Of course, a common cold no longer poses such a threat at the 13th week of pregnancy as in the first months of an "interesting" situation, but its complications are dangerous in that they can cause premature birth and cause the development of congenital pathologies in the baby. Treatment for a cold at 13 weeks of gestation should be timely and symptomatic. The doctor will advise you on what medicines and folk remedies to use so as not to harm yourself and your child.

High fever at 13 weeks gestation

Did the expectant mother's temperature rise against the background of a cold? Doctors reassure her: there is no need to panic and try to knock her down immediately. An antipyretic medicine can be taken if the temperature at 38 ° C persists for more than 2 days or continues to rise. You can fight the temperature with the help of drugs that contain paracetamol. Homeopathy has also proven itself well.

In addition, at the 13th week of the special situation, a low temperature may remain - 37 - 37.5 0 C. If at the same time the expectant mother does not complain about anything, no measures should be taken in this regard. It is worth being wary if the increase in temperature is accompanied by discharge of a yellow-green or bloody color.

Discharge at 13 weeks of gestation

Natural vaginal secretions at 13 weeks of gestation may change. Now it is more liquid and there is more of it - this is normal. It is important that the discharge is colorless and does not smell. The expectant mother needs to sound the alarm if one day she discovers that the transparent discharge has changed its color to a yellow (green, gray, brownish, bloody) shade, has become cheesy, bubbling and smelling bad. Irritation and pain in the genital area, their swelling indicates the development of an infectious process and can provoke spontaneous abortion. Run to the doctor!

Bleeding at 13 weeks gestation

The appearance of bleeding at 13 weeks of gestation is bad, but not fatal. First of all, you need to establish the cause of this phenomenon. There may be several reasons, by the way:

1. Detachment or abnormal formation of the placenta.
2. Internal hematomas.
3. Mechanical injury to the cervix after examination by a gynecologist or having sex.
4. Erosion.
5. Fall on the stomach.
6. Insufficient elasticity of the capillaries. At 13 weeks pregnant the size of the uterus is already large enough, and the blood vessels overflowing with blood burst, due to the pressure that it exerts on them.

Not all causes of vaginal bleeding pose a threat to a woman's position. But you need to see a doctor in any case. To make sure that everything is in order with the fetus, he may order an ultrasound procedure.

Ultrasound at 13 weeks of gestation

The first scheduled ultrasound scan with a normal pregnancy is prescribed for a period of 12-13 weeks. Feelings of a mother at the first visual meeting with her baby are beyond words! The woman sees how a tiny heart flickers on the monitor, how the arms and legs of the child move. The doctor at this time will determine the exact duration of pregnancy, the number of babies (yes, there may be two of them!), Assess whether the level of fetal development corresponds to generally accepted standards, whether the child has congenital defects.

At 13 weeks of gestation, a woman can also be referred for the first screening, which is usually carried out between 11 and 16 weeks of an "interesting" situation. This study is carried out in order to determine if the expectant mother is at risk for chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus (for example, Down's syndrome).

During the study, the doctor will carefully assess the thickness and transparency of the baby's collar zone, pay attention to the presence and size or absence of the nasal bone, examine the child as a whole so as not to miss physical defects, if any. Biochemical screening makes it possible to establish the concentration of hormones and proteins in the mother's blood.

Based on the age of the pregnant woman and the results of biochemical tests, the specialist can conclude about the possibility of the birth of a sick baby in this woman. Dangers are exposed to expectant mothers, in whom screening showed the risk of developing pathology in the baby 1k 350 and below. However, this does not mean that the child will definitely be born sick. Remember that screening only assumes a high probability of developing a chromosomal abnormality, no more. There is always a chance to bear and give birth to a healthy heir!

Tests for human chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone in the blood at 13 weeks of gestation are included in the first biochemical screening. They are also called the double test for the hCG hormone and the PAPA-A protein. The results of the blood test of the expectant mother are of particular importance for the doctor: it is by the level of the hCG hormone that they judge the normal course of pregnancy or, conversely, suggest probable problems in the development of the fetus (growth retardation, defects, negative Rh factor). Progesterone levels at 13 weeks of gestation are no longer as important as in the first trimester. Its norm at this time is 71.5-303.1 nmol / l.

Nutrition at 13 weeks of gestation

Variety and benefits - these are two fundamental requirements for the diet of a future mother at 13 weeks of an "interesting" position. A growing baby needs proteins, fats and carbohydrates equally. Just in case, we remind you that all products must go through a gentle level of heat treatment, that is, they must be boiled or steamed. It is great if boiled pieces of lean meat, vegetables, cereals and legumes, various nuts and not too sweet fruits regularly appear on a pregnant woman's plate. In order not to face the delicate problem of constipation, the diet of a pregnant woman can be varied with tomato juice, mashed vegetables and fruits, dried fruits, beets, apples and seaweed. Also, do not forget about the valuable calcium for the health of mom and baby, which can be found in kiwi, persimmon and lentils.

Alcohol is out of the question! Even if you really want to feel the taste of alcohol on your tongue, do not comfort yourself with the thought that a drop of a hot drink will not harm your baby. At the 13th week of pregnancy, the formation and differentiation of the child's internal organs is still ongoing - you should not tempt fate and risk the health of your baby. Remember that there is no safe dose of alcohol at 13 weeks of gestation!

Intimate life at 13 weeks of gestation

The sexual appetite of a woman in a position under the influence of a number of chemical reactions can increase several times. During this period, intimate relationships give only pleasure: the risk of termination of pregnancy is minimal, and the woman is already so used to her condition that she does not feel either moral or physical discomfort. At the 13th week of pregnancy, the sensitivity of the erogenous zones increases, which has the most positive effect on intimate life. But if the expectant mother does not feel well, of course, it is worth refraining from sexual intercourse.

There is still more than one week of expectation ahead, coupled with hope and anxiety, but a lot has already been passed! You have been with your blood for 13 weeks already! Good mood and great health to you!

Pregnancy 13 weeks. Video

The first trimester of your pregnancy is ending, behind anxiety and dangerous periods. You probably have already registered with the antenatal clinic, passed the necessary tests. Toxicosis became much less pronounced, and, possibly, completely disappeared. Hormonal balance is gradually established, you become calmer, more balanced.

After the end of toxicosis, your appetite has significantly improved, and now is the time to draw up an optimal nutritional regimen so that the baby receives all the necessary substances, and you do not gain excess weight.

Your tummy is still invisible, but you need to remember that tight clothes can squeeze it and interfere with the baby. Therefore, trousers with a narrow belt must already be abandoned.

How many months have passed? Week 13 is the first week of the fourth obstetric month of pregnancy, or the last week of the first trimester. You have crossed the barrier, and basically all of the baby's organs are formed. At the 13th week of pregnancy, the baby's weight is about 15-20 grams, and his height is 6.5 - 8 cm.

What's happening?

The size of the uterus has already increased so much that its upper pole is clearly felt over the pubic bones. If you lie on your back, you can easily feel it in the form of a rounded formation. The baby is now about the size of a peach. The placenta continues to form. Sometimes, after long walks, you may feel unusual fatigue, a feeling of heaviness in your legs. Try to dose your physical activity, but not be too passive.

Fetal development at 13 weeks gestation

Your baby is developing incredibly actively now. Despite the fact that he is still so small, he already has milk teeth, the bone skeleton is actively forming, and mom must definitely include additional calcium in the diet.

The gestation period of 12-13 weeks is the period when the baby's pancreas begins to produce insulin - the most important hormone that regulates glucose metabolism. Other endocrine glands are also formed.

The kid increases his height every day. His body still looks disproportionate, because the head is much larger than the body. But already now the rate of increase in the head does not exceed the growth of the body as much as it used to be. Your baby is already actively moving, despite the fact that you still do not feel the movement. Muscle tissue is being formed in him, and active movements are necessary to strengthen it. While the movements are quite chaotic, however, the baby may well move in the uterus, swim up to its walls. The periods of sleep and wakefulness change quickly, and only during sleep does the baby rest, gain strength.

The development of the gastrointestinal tract progresses: at this stage of pregnancy, the villi of the mucous membrane are laid - the most important elements of digestion. The baby's intestines are completely sterile throughout pregnancy, and only after the first attachment to the breast will he receive beneficial bacteria that will colonize the intestines and will facilitate digestion and absorption of nutrients.

By the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy, the baby develops facial muscles, a sucking reflex is formed. He already knows how to move his lips. The formation of the face continues: the eyes gradually move from the lateral parts of the head to the center, and the ears move from the neck.

The baby's brain is being improved. Now on its surface there are still no convolutions, but the places of their formation are already being laid - small grooves.

At this stage, eggs are laid in girls. Now there are several million, this number will decrease by birth.

The baby's skin is still very thin, pink, blood vessels are clearly visible through it. Subcutaneous adipose tissue does not accumulate yet. Only in the third trimester will the active accumulation of adipose tissue begin.

At 13-14 weeks of pregnancy, sound-reproducing structures are laid, the vocal cords are practically formed.

Photo of the baby at the 13th week, ultrasound

Mom's feelings

Future mothers at this time note a significant improvement in well-being and mood. Firstly, the toxicosis of the first trimester has already passed, and if some of its manifestations remain, then they no longer cause such discomfort as before. Your appetite has improved and you can indulge in culinary delights. Try to keep them useful.

Usually, by this time, a screening ultrasound has already been carried out, and you know that everything is in order with the baby. And this is the most important thing for every woman. In the early stages, most moms do not share with the surrounding features of their situation, but now your condition is becoming more noticeable. The tummy at the 13th week of pregnancy is still invisible, but a change in gait, sometimes - facial features, a change of clothes for looser ones, your high spirits, the rejection of heels for many becomes understandable.

You may already notice that age spots appear on the face. Do not worry - after pregnancy, they disappear very quickly without a trace. Also typical is the darkening of the strip from the navel to the pubic bones, the areoles on the mammary glands, and the genital area. Such changes are associated with a change in the synthesis of pituitary hormones.

You are more and more listening to your well-being, your connection with your baby is becoming closer. At this time, emotions are already forming in the children, and it is very important that mommy speaks more with the baby, stroking the tummy, which is already even starting to round.

Already at this time, your mammary glands are preparing to feed your baby, and you can notice how they have increased. Now you need to wear comfortable underwear without a frame that does not squeeze your chest and does not interfere with blood circulation. Special underwear for pregnant and nursing mothers is very convenient.

If your health allows, sign up for sports activities for pregnant women. You need to maintain a sufficient level of physical fitness in order to be in shape for childbirth, recover well, and avoid unpleasant complications. Also try to walk a lot in the fresh air, and if friends invite you to the nature outside the city, do not refuse!

If you are pregnant with twins

Multiple pregnancies at this time may still be no different. If you have pumped up muscles of the press, then the tummy may still be invisible, although very soon it will round up. Mom, expecting twins, must also strictly monitor nutrition, enough rest, walk. Enjoy this easy pregnancy as you will soon experience the double workload. Your tummy will grow faster than that of moms carrying one baby, the load on your back will be felt. Start wearing a support bandage in time - this will help relieve pain in the back, pressure on the bladder.

Pain and discharge in the 13th week of pregnancy

The end of the first trimester of pregnancy is defined by most mothers as an easy and pleasant period, not overshadowed by painful sensations. At this stage of pregnancy, any painful sensations should alert the expectant mother.

The uterus is not yet large enough to cause pain due to the compression of adjacent organs. Sometimes you may experience a pulling pain in the lower abdomen. Lie down for a while, rest, and if the sensations persist, be sure to consult a doctor. At this time, the increased tone of the uterus is quite common.

Normal during the period of bearing a baby is a short-term increase in the tone of the uterus. However, constant hypertonicity is dangerous for the baby. If you experience a period-like painful sensation, see your doctor. You will be prescribed appropriate treatment to help prolong the pregnancy and prevent miscarriage at 13 weeks of gestation.

Correct diet

The manifestations of toxicosis have already noticeably decreased, your appetite has improved, and despite the fact that you want to eat a lot and not always the most useful, you need to control your diet very carefully. First of all, you need to make up such a diet so that your baby gets all the nutrients he needs without gaining excess weight. In fact, everything is very simple. You need to remove as much as possible from the menu "unnecessary" foods: those that contain light carbohydrates and at the same time have a minimum of nutritional value. Eliminate or limit white bread as much as possible, replace it with whole grain. Remove pasta from the diet, preferably potatoes. The side dishes familiar to many need to be replaced with more healthy cereals and vegetable dishes.

Your diet should be rich in protein products, because it is the amino acids that make up proteins that are the basis for the construction of all cells in the body. Meat is not the only source of protein (and now you should give preference to dietary meat - poultry, rabbit, veal). Protein is found in large quantities in dairy products, especially in cottage cheese, in combination with valuable trace elements and vitamins.

Constipation is a common problem in pregnant women. They mainly occur from the second trimester, when the uterus compresses the intestines. But it is advisable to start their prevention now. Make it a rule to start your breakfast with a glass of kefir with prunes. This simplest method is neglected by many, but it really significantly improves the condition of the intestines. Your diet should include foods such as dried apricots, bananas, kiwi, bran. Be sure to eat lots of fruits and vegetables.

Necessary examinations and examinations

Usually, at this stage of pregnancy, a woman is already registered with an antenatal clinic, and now you need to visit a doctor once a month. At this time, an ultrasound scan can be performed. The first screening ultrasound examination should be performed at 11-13 weeks of gestation, the optimal period is 12 weeks. Ultrasound at 13 weeks of pregnancy is carried out in order to exclude gross malformations, chromosomal pathology. At this time, there is still an opportunity to conduct a genetic study. In case of detection of severe pathology, termination of pregnancy is possible.

The second reason that it is optimal to carry out an ultrasound scan precisely in this period is the fact that now, with an ultrasound examination, a specialist will determine the gestational age of the fetus with an accuracy of up to 2 days. In some difficult situations, obstetricians rely on this age. After all, there are situations when the mother cannot give the exact date of the last menstruation, for example, in the case of certain diseases, or if there were spotting at the initial stages of pregnancy.

The study at this time is carried out with a vaginal sensor. On the monitor, you can already see your baby, distinguish where his head, body, arms and legs are, the doctor will show you how his heart beats. But the gender at 13 weeks of pregnancy cannot yet be determined with 100 percent accuracy. The genitals are still forming. But at the second ultrasound, they will tell you exactly who you are waiting for - a boy or a girl.

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Questions - answers

What do brown discharge say at 13 weeks of pregnancy?

This is an alarming symptom that indicates the threat of termination of pregnancy. The brown color of the discharge is due to blood leakage, and if such a symptom is found, it is necessary to urgently seek medical help to prescribe a treatment that will prevent the termination of pregnancy.

I am 13 weeks pregnant and my stomach hurts - not too much, but from time to time after exercise there is a feeling that the uterus is tense. This is not dangerous?

The sensations described by you are characteristic of the increased tone of the myometrium. This may be normal, if such sensations are not too intense and quickly pass when you lie down and rest. However, to exclude the threat of termination of pregnancy, it is better for you to be examined.

I had unpleasant pulling sensations in the lumbar region, temperature at 13 weeks of gestation. What does it mean?

Such symptoms are characteristic of pyelonephritis. This disease very often occurs in pregnant women, since immunity is somewhat reduced, and the risk of bacterial inflammation is high. You should definitely consult a doctor, as pyelonephritis requires timely and adequate antibiotic therapy.

After a load, my lower back hurts a lot at 13 weeks of pregnancy. This is the second pregnancy, and the first one also had pain, but closer to the middle of the pregnancy. How can the pain be relieved? Can pain relievers be taken?

Lumbar pain during pregnancy is not always associated with stress on the back. This may be a symptom of an inflammatory process in the kidneys, so you need to consult a doctor to rule out such a pathology. Pain can be a symptom of inflammation of the nerve roots, and in this case, special treatment is also indispensable. And you cannot take painkillers on your own - only those that the doctor prescribes are safe for the baby. If such causes of pain are excluded, you need to try to get more rest. However, it is categorically impossible to lie down all day. Go to gymnastics for pregnant women - you will be shown special stretching exercises, strengthening the back muscles, which will need to be done regularly. Light massage also helps. You can ask relatives for a daily massage or sign up for a massage course at the clinic.