How
your baby's growing: At 5 inches long (head to bottom) and 6 ounces of
weight, your baby is about the size of an avocado this week. Some of her more
advanced body systems are working now too, including the circulatory system and
urinary tract. She's even begun inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid so her
lungs will be strong enough at birth to breathe.
How your life is changing: You've probably gained at least 5 pounds by
now, maybe as many as 10. Your uterus is growing and you might feel pangs of
pain caused by the ligaments stretching in your abdomen. You and your partner
may be feeling a little stressed out now, too. Many pregnant couples worry about
the baby's health, what labor will be like, how they'll cope as new parents.
It's perfectly normal.
Pregnancy Tip: Feel Your Baby Move "I wasn't sure if I could feel
my baby moving so a friend suggested I lie down for a while. After a few
minutes, I started feeling a butterfly sensation in my lower abdomen. It was
amazing!" --Linda B.