Contents
Pregnancy equator: a woman has already experienced toxicosis, got used to new sensations, but she has yet to learn how to live with a growing belly and prepare for childbirth. This period allows the expectant mother to lead an active lifestyle, go to work, meet friends and even play sports. But there are also some limitations.
KP along with gynecologist Alsu Kuchumova He will tell you what sensations a woman may experience at the 5th month of pregnancy, how the child develops during this period, and what examinations need to be done in the period from 17 to 20 weeks.
Key facts about 5 months pregnant
| Feel | The uterus enlarges and displaces other internal organs. A woman feels it physically: heartburn, nausea, bitterness in the mouth may appear, often weakness and dizziness (due to anemia) |
| External changes | Due to internal changes in the body, blood circulation is disturbed. Often in the middle of pregnancy, veins appear on the legs, a number of women experience symptoms of hemorrhoids. The belly continues to grow, and with it the weight: usually by the 20th week, the pregnant woman gains up to 40% of her future weight. |
| How a child develops | The baby inside continues to take shape. The ultrasound images show that the fetus is the size of a zucchini. It is at the 5th month of pregnancy that the expectant mother often feels her baby inside for the first time, they get to know each other through the first shocks. During this period, the growth of the fetus reaches 20 cm, and weight – up to 500 g. |
| What examinations need to be done | In the second trimester, a pregnant woman undergoes a second screening, which will help eliminate problems associated with the development of the fetus, the course of pregnancy and determine the sex of the baby. Every 3-4 weeks, the expectant mother takes blood and urine tests. And in some cases, the doctor may prescribe additional tests to prevent risks. |
Symptoms, signs and sensations
The body of a pregnant woman continues to rebuild – not so much at the hormonal level, but physically. The uterus grows, the abdominal cavity, on the contrary, decreases in size. All internal organs move, blood flow worsens. Hence the new sensations, alas, not always pleasant.
Heartburn and nausea
The growing uterus occupies the abdominal cavity, the rest of the internal organs: the stomach, other digestive organs are forced to move. Because of this, the woman suffers from heartburn and nausea.
Constipation and hemorrhoids
Also during this period, there may be such a problem as constipation. To alleviate the situation, doctors recommend moving more, drinking enough water and reviewing the diet, adding more fiber to it.
In the second trimester, hemorrhoids develop in about 35% of pregnant women (1). The situation is complicated by the fact that most drugs are not allowed to be used in women in position. A gynecologist and a proctologist will help you choose the best method of treatment.
Bleeding gums
Due to the increasing volume of blood, the vessels of a woman may not be able to cope. Often at the 17th week of pregnancy, bleeding from the nose, bleeding gums are observed. It is better to choose a soft toothbrush for this period, and always keep paper handkerchiefs on hand.
Anemia
Often at the 5th month of pregnancy, due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the expectant mother, hemoglobin drops. If a woman notices that she often feels dizzy, and her skin has become paler, it is best to take a blood test. First of all, you need to adjust the diet: add meat, offal and other foods rich in iron. Perhaps the doctor will prescribe medication.
Mood
Everything is unstable here. The mood of a pregnant woman at 5 months is constantly changing. She can burst into tears for no reason, and after a couple of minutes she is already laughing. And that’s okay. Relatives should prepare and understand: these are not just “whims”, these are processes inside the body that do not depend on the woman.
However, if the expectant mother is more often depressed, cries a lot or is constantly irritated, she should consult a psychologist. As a rule, such specialists are also accepted in antenatal clinics.
Growing weight
The belly at the 5th month of pregnancy is not yet so big that it interferes with putting on shoes on your own or going for a light jog, but it is already difficult to hide it. But weight gain is largely not due to body fat, but in connection with the growing uterus and fetus. Normally, at this time, gain 5-7 kg.
However, if a pregnant woman often eats sweets and pastries, prefers pasta to vegetables and does not move much, weight gain may be greater. And getting rid of excess weight after childbirth will be more difficult.
Colostrum
During this period, the expectant mother may notice that linen and clothes get wet in the chest area. Liquid secretions from the nipples are called colostrum, which is the precursor to breast milk. And the appearance of colostrum at this time is considered a physiological norm.
Stretch marks and pigmentation
At the 5th month of pregnancy, striae may appear on the body, especially in the areas of the chest, hips, abdomen – what we used to call stretch marks. This happens when the skin stretches too quickly and lacks elasticity. Often this happens with a lack of vitamin E.
Alas, it is impossible to prevent the appearance of stretch marks. All we can do is keep skin healthy and supple with a healthy diet (rich in vitamin E) and moisturizing cosmetics.
By the way, during the stretching of the skin, the stomach and chest can itch. Appropriate cosmetics, if not guaranteed to get rid of stretch marks, then at least help relieve itching.
Pigmentation appears in a number of expectant mothers due to a change in hormonal levels – it will not work to influence this. But there is good news: after childbirth, dark spots will brighten and will not be so noticeable.
Painful sensations
Due to the intensive growth of the uterus, a woman often has a stomachache. The nature of the sensation may vary: pulling, sharp, sharp pain. It can grab from one side or from both sides at once. This does not happen all the time – for example, when bending over or while walking.
Often there is nothing critical in this: the ligaments that hold the uterus are simply stretched. When the ligaments are pulled, the expectant mother feels pain (2).
But that doesn’t mean you have to endure in silence. If the pain is frequent, too severe, or there are other symptoms, this must be reported to the doctor. The doctor will conduct a diagnosis to eliminate the risk of miscarriage.
Is there a period at 5 months pregnant
There should be no menses. But if a woman has spotting, this is a reason to see a doctor. The causes of bleeding in the 5th month of pregnancy can be different, most often these are (3):
- placental abruption with the formation of a retroplacental hematoma or without the formation of hematomas,
- formation of a hematoma,
- low placenta previa.
It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause and stop the bleeding in order to avoid miscarriage and large blood loss.
Allocations
Normally, they are always present. In a healthy pregnant woman, the discharge is mucous, light, and may be white. It is important to pay attention to the quantity, smell and other sensations. Too much volume, an unpleasant odor, itching or burning in the genital area should alert – this is definitely a reason to visit a doctor.
Photo life
The size and shape of the abdomen can depend on various factors. And first of all, from the physique of the woman herself: if the pelvis is “wide”, then the tummy will not appear for a long time, and if it is “narrow”, then the stomach will grow earlier.
As a rule, in miniature women, the belly at the 5th month of pregnancy already stands out significantly, it cannot be hidden even behind oversized clothes. In women with magnificent forms and at week 20, external signs of pregnancy may not be obvious.
Also, the size and shape of the abdomen is affected by the amount of amniotic fluid, the size of the fetus itself.
Child development at 5 months of pregnancy
During this period, the baby actively moves: repeatedly changes the position of the body and even somersaults, sucks a finger and licks the umbilical cord, makes faces, knocks on the wall of the uterus – hence, by the way, the first tremors that the mother feels.
At the 5th month of pregnancy, as a rule, by ultrasound, you can find out the sex of the baby: the genitals are already formed. And the most detailed changes are taking place. For example, papillary patterns are formed on the fingertips: the same individual fingerprints (4).
17 Week
During this period, the child’s muscles grow and strengthen, joints develop, hence the increasing activity. Now he can even raise his head. All internal organs, cardiovascular, respiratory systems are improved. The alveolar apparatus of the lungs is being formed: while the alveolar vesicles are compressed, but when the baby emerges from the womb, they will deal with the first breath.
| The weight | 150 g |
| Length | 12-13 see |
18 Week
The brain undergoes new changes: it grows and becomes more complex. A myelin sheath appears on the nerve fibers – so that in the future the brain can respond to external stimuli.
Facial features become clearer, straightened ears. Hearing improves. The endocrine system is working harder and harder. An interesting feature: during this period, the child himself can “share” hormones with his mother – therefore, often in the second half of pregnancy, the woman’s psycho-emotional state stabilizes.
| The weight | 200-250 g |
| Length | about 20 cm |
19 Week
The fetus changes significantly in appearance: the arms and legs become longer, and the head stops growing. Body proportions return to normal.
There are also internal changes: the brain is maturing, including the structures responsible for perception (taste, smell, touch, etc.). The rudiments of permanent teeth are formed. The composition of the blood is changing – approximately with this baby will be born.
| The weight | 250-300 g |
| Length | 25 см |
20 Week
During this period, the gastrointestinal tract actively develops. Already formed the first feces – meconium.
The skin of the baby at the 20th week of gestation becomes denser, fluff appears and a special lubricant that will ensure the safety of the baby during childbirth.
And during this period, you can observe more perfect facial expressions: the baby already knows how to smile and frown. And in general, he is more and more like a person, more active: he swims, somersaults, feels himself and the umbilical cord. More developed than in the early stages, the limbs allow for many new movements.
| The weight | 340-500 g |
| Length | 28 см |
Examinations at 5 months of pregnancy
Every three to four weeks a woman should visit a gynecologist. The doctor will ask questions about well-being and complaints, measure weight, abdominal volume, and other parameters, and will give the necessary recommendations. At the consultation, you can ask a specialist about some exciting moments.
As in previous weeks, blood and urine tests will be taken during this period. In addition, at the end of the 5th month of pregnancy, a woman undergoes a second screening. It is possible that the doctor will prescribe other tests.
General analyzes
It is necessary to regularly donate blood and urine in the antenatal clinic so that the doctor can control the health of the expectant mother, eliminate the risks of anemia and impaired kidney function. Testing is required every three to four weeks.
US
At 20-21 weeks of pregnancy, a woman must be sent for a second screening. Ultrasound will help make sure that the baby is developing normally, amniotic fluid is in sufficient volume. Diagnostics also helps to assess the length of the cervix, examine the placenta, and determine the sex of the baby.
Other analyzes
As a rule, at the 20th week of pregnancy, a woman is prescribed a smear test for flora. And if there are indications – tests to exclude genital infections. Even if such tests showed a negative result at the beginning of pregnancy, there is no guarantee that over time everything remained normal.
If after the first biochemical screening there were deviations from the norm, then at 16-18 weeks the doctor may recommend taking a test with the study of hCG, AFP (alpha-fetoprotein), unconjugated estriol. The analysis of these substances in some cases helps to timely establish chromosomal abnormalities or confirm their absence in women at risk. If the indicators are high, the woman will be referred for a consultation with genetics.
Do’s and Don’ts for Expectant Mothers
Behind were the risks associated with the attachment of the embryo, and before the birth is still a long time. Therefore, in the middle of the gestational period, the expectant mother can do everything that is not considered harmful. But in moderation.
No limits: fresh air, safe hobbies and pleasant socializing in healthy company.
Diet
If the health of the woman and the course of pregnancy do not inspire fear in the doctor, usually the nutrition of the expectant mother is not limited. The only condition is that the diet should be balanced, saturated with vitamins and microelements.
If necessary, the doctor can intervene: limit the use of certain foods, prescribe medications or take extra vitamins.
Is it possible to paint
If trips to the beautician have to be postponed, then no one forbids the use of decorative and care cosmetics. But these should be products with a safe composition, incl. without hormone-like substances, dangerous dyes and fragrances.
Sex
In the absence of contraindications, it is not worth pausing intimate life. Sex, on the contrary, is good for health and maintaining a normal psycho-emotional climate in the family.
The main thing is that it is safe for the child and the expectant mother – it is better to postpone the experiments.
If, during or after intercourse, the expectant mother feels pain, discomfort, or discharge of an unusual shade begins, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Physical exercise
Usually, if the expectant mother feels well, all tests are normal, doctors not only do not limit her activity, but also encourage physical activity. Thanks to them, the state of the vascular and respiratory systems improves, loads help relieve swelling and tension in the lumbar region, and this is also a good start for the upcoming birth.
But everything should be in moderation! Moreover, there are risks up to a miscarriage.
At the 5th month of pregnancy, you should not engage in any extreme and traumatic sports. It is better to try some varieties of Pilates or yoga, swimming in the pool, as well as some dance styles. Discuss options with your doctor, and don’t forget to warn the trainer about your situation.
Tan
You can sunbathe at the 5th month of pregnancy, but following the safety rules. Sunbathing using special products (at least SPF30), protective clothing (headgear, light scarf). Do not sunbathe from 11 am to 16 pm.
Communication with the baby
During this period, you can talk to the child who is inside. He already hears everything, feels great. If the fetus feels restless, there are frequent tremors, try to calm down, breathe, talk in an affectionate tone with the baby. You can turn on relaxing music or take a walk in the fresh air.
Popular questions and answers
Our expert obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor Alsu Kuchumova answers frequently asked questions about the 5th month of pregnancy.
How does a woman’s appearance change at 5 months of pregnancy?
• Hair falls out less or does not fall out at all throughout pregnancy – this is due to the hormonal background.
• The smoothness of the skin of the face is also given by female sex hormones, which increase during pregnancy. A radiant appearance and a slight blush appear due to a rush of blood, as the volume of circulating blood increases.
• During this period, the growth of the abdomen becomes more noticeable and faster, the skin stretches, stretch marks appear. The doctor measures the height of the fundus of the uterus: the distance from the pubic joint to the fundus of the uterus is approximately equal to the weeks of pregnancy. Due to the intensive growth of the abdomen, the center of gravity shifts, pain in the lower back may appear. Therefore, the doctor may recommend wearing an unloading bandage. The deposition of fat in the subcutaneous tissue in the region of the anterior abdominal wall, in the region of the thighs gradually increases – this is necessary for a pregnant woman as an energy reserve, that is, reserves. Under the influence of relaxin, the walls of blood vessels relax and during this period edema and varicose veins may appear. In this situation, compression knitwear can help out.
In any case, do not rush to get upset: all these changes are temporary. If you lead a healthy lifestyle, engage in moderate physical activity, do not gain excess weight, then postpartum recovery will be easy and quick.
Can I have sex at 5 months pregnant?
During intercourse and after orgasm, the uterus comes into tone – this is the contraction of the muscles of the uterus. This reaction is absolutely normal and not dangerous for healthy pregnant women.
But there are certain situations in which sexual rest is necessary. These include, for example:
• shortening of the cervix,
• infection of the genital tract,
• hematomas of various localization,
• the threat of termination of pregnancy,
• spotting from the genital tract with central placenta previa
• and other options in which the doctor will give recommendations on the observance of the protective regimen.
How much weight can you gain at 5 months pregnant?
Norms of weight gain for a woman by the 20th week of pregnancy:
• BMI 26 – you can only gain a maximum of 2,9 kg.
How to calculate BMI: weight divided by height squared. In this case, weight is measured in kg, height – in meters.
Of great importance is the nutritional status of the mother, the provision of the body with nutrients. You can eat 100 g of chocolate and get a useless 500 kcal, which will lead to a sharp jump in blood glucose levels, or you can eat meat with vegetables and get a daily intake of B vitamins, zinc and iron. Choose what is useful for you and your future baby.
Sources of
- S.V. Vasiliev, D.E. Popov, A.I. Underdosed, O.S. Sokolov. Hemorrhoids and pregnancy: modern concepts of treatment and prevention. Academician I.P. Pavlova. 2015. Volume 22. No. 3. pp. 37-39. URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/gemorroy-i-beremennost-sovremennye-predstavleniya-o-lechenii-i-profilaktike/viewer
- Normal pregnancy. Clinical guidelines. 2020. URL: http://old.minzdravao.ru/sites/default/files/2020/1/normalnaya_beremennost.pdf
- N.K. Tetruashvili, A.A. Agadzhanova, T.B. Ionanidze. Bleeding up to 22 weeks of pregnancy: clinic, diagnosis, hemostatic therapy // Medical Council. 2014. No. 9. pp. 60-63. URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/krovotecheniya-do-22-nedel-beremennosti-klinika-diagnostika-gemostaticheskaya-terapiya/viewer
- 5 Months Pregnant: Fetus Size, Features, Body Changes, Baby Size // Tandurust. 2009. URL: https://www.tandurust.com/pregnancy-childbirth/5-month-pregnancy.html