Are you ready for a second look at your baby?

How is your baby growing?

At 19 weeks of pregnancy, your baby's heart is already fully developed, although the two chambers and two atria are not yet separated from each other. The heart's septums only close completely after birth. However, the little heart now beats about twice as fast as yours and supplies the body with oxygen and nutrients.  

The still tiny intestine begins to function around the 19th week of pregnancy and collects metabolic waste. This is excreted after birth with the first bowel movement, called 'meconium.'  

Now it is very likely that your baby's sex can be determined—think about whether you want to find out at your next ultrasound or if you prefer to be surprised at birth.

How is your belly growing?

At 19 weeks of pregnancy, your pregnancy is usually already visible: your belly and abdominal area are growing. If you feel that your pregnancy has entered a new phase, this is due to the secretion of additional pregnancy hormones, such as estrogen.  

Pregnancy hormones prepare your body for the rest of your pregnancy and soften your connective tissues, joints, and ligaments. That is why it is important to avoid sports that involve sudden movements or a lot of jumping. Unfortunately, this softness carries a risk of injury.  

Most pregnant women feel well and healthy in the 19th week of pregnancy. However, mild discomforts such as dry skin or a stuffy nose may occur.  

Even though you are only halfway through your pregnancy, your body may already be experiencing contractions. These preliminary contractions cause a twinge, similar to abdominal pain. As long as your belly contracts for no more than 45 seconds and no more than three times an hour, everything is fine and your baby is doing well. However, talk to your gynecologist or midwife (if you already have one) about this.

What makes you grow as a family?

Between the 19th and 22nd week of pregnancy, your gynecologist will perform the second major preventive examination. Are you already excited about how your baby has developed and what it looks like?

Since an ultrasound will also be performed, you will definitely be able to see your baby in action – if it's not asleep ;-)

Think about whether you want to know the sex of your baby before the appointment, because from now on you will be able to see it.