Listen to who is waiting for you with joy

How is your belly growing?

The placenta continues to grow and is slowly taking over the complete nourishment of your baby from the chorion, the fetal membrane. In addition, the cervix becomes tighter and bends backward to protect the cervix and your baby.  

In addition to your belly, your feet may also 'grow.' If you have to stand upright for long periods of time, your increasing weight puts pressure on your feet. According to one study*, your feet become wider: their height decreases, but their length, width, and volume increase. Elevating your legs frequently and relaxing can help a little.  

If you are prone to varicose veins and spider veins, ask your gynecologist to prescribe anti-thrombotic stockings. These support the veins in your legs as they work harder during pregnancy.

^{*Change in foot shape and size during pregnancy, Hentschel, Johannes Christian, 2006} 

How is your baby growing?

From the 16th week of pregnancy, your baby can perceive sounds, as its hearing is already well developed. In addition to your heartbeat and the sound of blood flowing through your veins, it can also hear your voice. Talk to it, sing to it, and of course, your partner can also start talking to your baby. This way, the two of them can start building a relationship.  

Your baby is now very active. Up to five minutes at a time and up to five hours a day, 24 hours a day. This is because they have not yet developed a day and night rhythm. In addition to physical exercises, their activity manifests itself in grimaces, thumb sucking, and lifting their head and arms. But you probably haven't noticed this yet.

What makes you grow as a family?

How about a shopping trip together? Even if your belly isn't huge yet, you can slowly start looking for clothes that will 'grow' with you. To avoid feeling constricted later on, it is recommended that you buy pants with a waistband below the belly or with a wide waistband that does not press on the belly. A few, easily combined clothes made of natural materials such as cotton, wool, etc. are practical, as you will probably sweat less. When it comes to T-shirts, you can buy ones that open at the front. This way, you can use them after giving birth and while breastfeeding.

A tip from mom Viola: 

Since maternity clothes are not worn for very long, you can look for clothes at flea markets or online second-hand stores. There you will always find beautiful clothes that have been worn very little. 

Speaking of breastfeeding: you can wear a nursing bra even during pregnancy. They are comfortable, made of soft material, have wide straps, and can be adjusted to suit every woman's needs. It is important that bras do not have underwires during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as your breasts are very sensitive.  

How do you talk to your baby? Well, since they can hear you, you probably have a nickname or even a 'project name' for your baby. Maybe you've already started looking for the 'right' name. Here you will find ideas for choosing a name.