In gynecology, doctors calculate the gestational age starting from the first day of the last menstruation. An obstetric week lasts 7 days, 4 weeks make up 1 obstetric month. Conception occurs during ovulation, which corresponds to days 12-18 of the cycle. This is why the obstetric pregnancy calendar is one and a half to three weeks ahead of the actual age of the unborn child.

14th week of pregnancy corresponds to the very beginning of the second trimester or the third and a half obstetric month. This time plays an important role in the development of the child - the development of all organs and systems occurs, the placenta is formed, the fetus continues to gain weight.

Fetal development

At 14 weeks of pregnancy the size of the fetus is about eight centimeters, its weight is 30 grams. By this time, the baby acquires the features of an adult. The fourteenth week of pregnancy is the time of final formation of the placenta. The organ provides nutritional and respiratory function, and also protects the child from harmful substances and the woman’s immune system.

The musculoskeletal system of the unborn child undergoes strong transformations. Calcium begins to accumulate in the bones, making them harder and stronger. Joints appear in the upper and lower extremities, allowing the unborn child to perform a variety of movements. By the beginning of the second trimester, 12 pairs of ribs are formed.

At the fourteenth week, the baby’s appearance changes. His face gradually changes its shape - the fetus has a distinct nose, bridge of the nose, cheeks. The eyes are still closed at this stage of pregnancy. At the beginning of the second trimester, active formation of hair follicles in the skin is observed. From these appear the first “fluff,” called lanugo. The child also develops hair on his head, eyelashes, and eyebrows.

By the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy, the rudiments of all digestive organs have been formed, they can already perform their function - when amniotic fluid is swallowed, primary feces are formed. The liver is the main organ of hematopoiesis, the pancreas begins to synthesize the hormone insulin. Thanks to this, the child’s body develops its own metabolism.

At 14 weeks of gestation, the organs of the urinary system are ready to do their job. The baby may swallow amniotic fluid, which are absorbed into the blood and filtered by the kidneys. Due to these processes, the unborn child can secrete his own urine.

By this time, the lungs are two collapsed bags that are not yet ready to inhale atmospheric air. However, already at the 14th week of pregnancy the baby is preparing to be born. The baby begins to make movements similar to breathing, they are performed due to contractions of the diaphragm - the muscle that separates the chest and abdominal cavities.

The cardiovascular system of the unborn child at the 14th week of pregnancy is highly developed, thanks to which all organs are nourished. The pulse rate at this stage of pregnancy is about 140 beats per minute. The heart has four chambers, just like an adult's.

The endocrine system undergoes major changes at the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy. By this time, the fetal thyroid gland synthesizes its own hormones. The ovaries in female babies produce estrogens, which leads to the development of internal and external genital organs and mammary glands.

By the fourteenth week of pregnancy, the prostate begins to function in male fetuses. The gland synthesizes testosterone, which leads to the development of the genital organs. Despite the described changes in the hormonal system and the external differences between boys and girls, at this stage it is still impossible to determine the sex of the child.

The beginning of the second trimester is a time of active maturation of the nervous system. The development of the brain and spinal cord continues, and peripheral nerves differentiate from them. Various centers responsible for breathing, heartbeat and other processes are formed in the cortical structures.

The child develops one of the senses - taste. If the mother eats a large amount of chocolate and sweets, the baby may feel that the amniotic fluid has become sweet. The fruit distinguishes light and darkness well; it can turn away from the source of bright flashes. Also the child actively uses the organ of hearing, he distinguishes sounds in the external environment and reacts to them.

By the beginning of the second trimester, the fetus has some reflexes. The main one is sucking, the child can grab his finger in his mouth, which imitates breastfeeding. The baby may also frown, clench his fists, or grab the umbilical cord.

Movements at this stage of pregnancy are very varied. The baby can move his upper and lower limbs, turn his head, and spin around in the uterine cavity. However, only some repeatedly pregnant women manage to notice fetal movements. They feel like “fish swimming” or “butterflies fluttering”.

14th week of pregnancy: the baby's first movements and kicks

Woman's well-being

The fourteenth week of pregnancy is usually one of the most beautiful moments of pregnancy. By this time, the expectant mother is no longer bothered by toxicosis. The uterus is small, which does not affect the woman’s body.

The belly at the 14th week of pregnancy has a rounded shape, but it can easily be hidden under loose clothing. At this stage, a dark horizontal line may appear under the navel. Its occurrence is associated with increased production of melanin due to the action of hormones. To prevent stretch marks, women should start using creams and oils, since they only have an effect if used in a timely manner.

The height of the fundus of the uterus at the fourteenth week of pregnancy is about 10 centimeters, the girth of the abdomen is 70-75 centimeters. By this time, the expectant mother can gain 1-2 kilograms, which is a variant of the norm. If a woman’s body weight increases by 4 kilograms or more, she should reconsider her diet and reduce its calorie content. An increased amount of adipose tissue significantly increases the load on the spine and other organs.

At the fourteenth week of pregnancy, the expectant mother is recommended to consume milk, cheese, kefir, fermented baked milk and other products. They are a source of protein and calcium, which are necessary for the normal growth and development of the baby. A woman should also include in her diet sources of essential amino acids such as eggs, fish, lean meat and poultry.

A woman during the second trimester of pregnancy you need to eat cereals - buckwheat, rice, oatmeal. They are sources of B vitamins. It is also recommended that the expectant mother include fresh vegetables, berries, fruits, and nuts in her diet. The total daily caloric intake is calculated based on the height, body weight, and physical activity of the mother; on average, it should not exceed 2500-3000 kcal per day.

Usually, by the beginning of the second trimester, all symptoms of toxicosis disappear. The exception to this rule is women carrying twins. Nausea, vomiting, heartburn and other symptoms of toxicosis in pregnant twins can continue until the sixteenth week of gestation.

Vaginal discharge at the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy is normally not abundant and has a light or transparent color. Also, they should not be accompanied by an unpleasant odor. A variant of the norm is a slight sourness of vaginal discharge.

Attention! If pathological vaginal discharge, bleeding, or cramping pain in the abdomen appears, a pregnant woman should immediately seek medical help.

Some women experience pain in the lower abdomen at 14 weeks of pregnancy. Such sensations can normally be a consequence of stretching of the ligaments that hold the uterus. In this case, the pain will be intermittent, weak in strength, and should not be accompanied by other symptoms.

Also in the second trimester for some expectant mothers. This is due to increased load on the spine due to the enlargement of the uterus and a shift in the center of gravity. To prevent pain, you should avoid wearing high-heeled shoes; if pain occurs, it is recommended to take a knee-elbow position, lie down, or do light exercises.

The enlarged uterus begins to put pressure on the organs of the urinary system, which increases the load on the kidneys and reduces the size of the bladder. Because of this, a pregnant woman begins to want to go to the toilet “in a small way” more often. The uterus also puts pressure on the intestines, which can lead to the development of constipation.

12-14 weeks of pregnancy: ultrasound examination, sensations

Complications and risks

Usually the fourteenth week of pregnancy is not accompanied by complications. In rare cases, the following pathologies may develop:

1. Frozen pregnancy.

With this pathology, the fetus dies in the womb, but does not leave the uterine cavity. During a frozen pregnancy, the expectant mother may not notice any abnormalities, but in the absence of timely medical care, severe inflammation develops. That is why a woman should not skip routine doctor’s examinations.

It is accompanied by cramping pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, then bleeding is added to this symptom. If you consult a doctor early and take medications, pregnancy can often be maintained.

3. Infection of the internal genital organs.

Some of them occur latently, so before planning conception you should donate blood for antibodies to the main pathogens of sexually transmitted diseases. If the infection occurs during pregnancy, it may be accompanied by unusual vaginal discharge, which differs in consistency, color, abundance and smell from normal discharge.

4. Anemia.

One of the most common companions during pregnancy is a lack of iron, leading to a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin. With anemia, a woman’s general condition worsens, her performance and well-being decrease. The skin becomes pale, dizziness, headaches, and neurological disorders are observed.

Surveys

The fourteenth week of pregnancy is the deadline for the first screening. It includes donating blood for tests and ultrasound. However, doctors recommend the first screening before the 12th week of pregnancy, since abortion in the presence of chromosomal abnormalities is safer in the first trimester of pregnancy.

The amount of hCG and PAPP-A in the blood is calculated. These substances are secreted by the placenta and are necessary for the normal course of pregnancy. Their increase or decrease may indicate a chromosomal abnormality of the fetus - Down syndrome, Patau syndrome, etc. However, a deviation of hCG and PAPP-A does not indicate a 100% probability of the disease in the unborn child, it only estimates the risk of its presence.

The first screening also includes ultrasound examination. With its help, the doctor examines the structure of the fetus’s body, observes its movements, records its heartbeat, and determines the gestational age. There are “ultrasound markers” of Down syndrome and other anomalies - enlargement of the collar zone, abnormalities of the nasal bone, etc.

If there are abnormalities in the blood test and ultrasound, it is possible to prescribe additional research methods - amniocentesis and cordocentesis. They are invasive procedures in which the doctor uses a puncture to obtain amniotic fluid or blood from the umbilical cord. These methods help to detect congenital pathologies of the fetus with almost one hundred percent probability.

Some women register for pregnancy at 14 weeks of gestation. It is advisable to do this in the first trimester, but a slight delay is possible. When registering, an expectant mother is required to undergo a list of tests.

A prerequisite for registration is donating blood for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B. The causative agents of these diseases can penetrate through the placenta to the fetus, therefore, if they are detected, medical abortion is recommended, and if it is refused, maintenance therapy is recommended.

Also, the expectant mother must donate blood to determine her group and Rh factor. If there is a risk of conflict (the woman has a negative Rh factor, and the partner has a positive one), the pregnant woman needs careful monitoring and, if necessary, medication support.

When registering, the expectant mother must donate blood for a general and biochemical analysis. The indicators reflect the functioning of internal organs: pancreas, kidneys, liver. A woman should also have her urine tested for general analysis. The results of the study will help identify urinary tract infections and protein loss.

Another mandatory test when registering a pregnant woman is taking a vaginal smear. This test helps diagnose bacterial vaginosis, thrush, gonorrhea, chlamydia and other diseases. To confirm the diagnosis, the expectant mother may be referred for an enzyme immunoassay blood test.

For him, it’s an eternity, because from a set of cells your baby has turned into a little man, having gone through a path that repeats all the stages of human evolution. We will tell you in more detail what success the little one has achieved this week and what is happening right now.

Enter the first day of your last menstrual period

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What to name the child?

It is a mistake to call a baby at 14 weeks an embryo. The early embryonic and late embryonic periods of its development are long gone. He was an embryo until the ninth week. After this period, the formation of internal organs was completed, all processes of anlage ended and the embryonic tail disappeared. Now in its place stands an ordinary tailbone.

It's coming now fetal period, during which a fully formed baby, which is now correctly called a fetus, will grow, gain weight, and improve its skills and abilities. This week the baby is the size of a large apple, his height is at the level of 12-14 centimeters, and his weight has almost reached the mark of 40-50 grams.

What does the baby look like?

The baby is very reminiscent of a man, small and miniature, but already a man. He no longer has a tail, nor does he have a giant, irregularly shaped oval head. With the completion of the embryonic phase, more and more human features appear in the appearance of the baby. Now his head is aligned in shape, rounded, a neck has appeared and the baby at the current stage has even learned to use it - he turns his head to the right and left.

The head still remains quite large, but now it no longer makes up two-thirds of the body area, but only half, and with further growth it will become proportional: by the time of birth it will make up only one-fifth of the overall proportions. The limbs also look disproportionate - the arms are still longer than the legs, but shorter than necessary - with them the baby can only reach his face and cannot, for example, touch his head - he cannot reach.

If now a woman undergoes not an ordinary two-dimensional ultrasound, which is recommended for everyone as an examination as part of prenatal screening, but a 3D or even 4D, then the woman will most likely be very surprised to see on the scanner monitor not the cutie baby that women imagine him to be , but a thin, skinny and wrinkled little man. Subcutaneous fat has not yet formed, which is what gives the baby such a pronounced, suffering thinness.

The skin has a rich red-purple color due to the blood vessels visible through it. Some children develop hair on their heads at this stage, but for now they are light and bleached, since the baby has not yet produced the pigment that colors them. This week the baby gets eyebrows, which are also very light.

The fingers and toes are already fully formed and there are nails. And this week, the baby begins to develop individual, unique fingerprints that are unique to him, and a unique pattern is formed on them.

The features of the little face change. They are becoming more and more individual. At week 14, the frontal bone, cheekbones and chin begin to “protrude” forward somewhat, and the growth of the nasal bones also continues. Already now the baby looks like mom or dad, it’s just that this similarity is still very difficult to catch.

The baby's ears are almost back to their proper place, and his eyes are also positioned on either side of the bridge of his nose. The organs of vision are tightly covered by the formed eyelids. This does not prevent the baby from beginning to distinguish darkness from light this week. If, under ultrasound control, you shine a flashlight on a pregnant woman’s belly, the baby will become more active and begin to move faster.

The situation with auditory function is also ambiguous. The baby hears, but does it in a special way. It picks up the vibration of a sound, for example, a mother's voice.

He already distinguishes the vibration of his father's voice from his mother's and may become frightened when sharp and loud extraneous sounds reach him that have nothing in common with the voices of his parents. The inner ear, which is responsible for converting sound waves, will begin to fully function only after a month and a half. But now the baby needs communication, you need to talk to him, read fairy tales to him, sing songs - he will perceive everything on a vibrational level.

Nervous system

The nervous system develops more actively than others, complex and interesting processes take place in it. Before this period, all impulses that arose in the child’s body at the neural level were “caught” by the spinal cord. Now he transfers this honorable responsibility to the brain. This most important organ is already fully formed, divided into hemispheres, and the amount of brain matter is increasing at a very rapid pace.

The baby “gets smarter” every day by a quarter of a million new brain cells.

The pituitary gland produces hormones, and the cerebellum begins to coordinate the movements of the fetus. True, this process is long, and even by the time the baby is born, his movements will still be chaotic for a long time.

Primary coordination of motor functions is developing around the clock. Despite the fact that the child spends 99% of his time in a state similar to sleep, his movements do not stop. He shudders, moves his arms and legs, moves the muscles of his face and back. This is due to the fact that neural connections are established between the brain and the muscles of the body, ensuring the rapid passage of nerve impulses.

Already now, the baby can “boast” of possessing some reflexes that are important for survival - by the 13-14th obstetric week, the child has learned to suck, grab, swallow and quickly respond to frightening factors, shrinking when frightened. He also pushes off the uterine wall with his legs when accidentally touched - this reflex will later help him learn to walk.

The taste buds on the tongue and the inner surface of the cheeks are well developed - the baby distinguishes shades of tastes, already in the womb giving preference to sweet over bitter or sour. Mom needs to remember this when shaping her diet.

However, a large amount of sweets in an attempt to “please” the fetus can lead to the development of gestational diabetes in a woman and increase the risk of developing this disease in the future in the baby.

By the 14th week of the mother’s pregnancy and the 12th week of his intrauterine life, the baby comes with an impressive “baggage” of new knowledge - he, being in the mother’s womb, actively explores the world - listens, catches the mother’s mood, learns to interact.

Internal organs

At this stage, although the placenta is young, it fully assumes the responsibilities of feeding and protecting the baby. Vessels and the umbilical cord strengthen and grow. Now the baby and the “baby place” are one whole, and the baby is completely dependent on the health and condition of the placenta. All internal organs have long since completed their formation; this week they are increasing in size and beginning to function.

The stomach can now accept amniotic fluid, which the baby swallows in considerable quantities, the intestines contract rhythmically, “rehearsing” peristalsis, the gallbladder accumulates bile, and the liver participates in hematopoiesis. The pancreas produces insulin, small kidneys produce secondary urine, and the urinary system removes urine from the baby's body into the amniotic fluid. The sterility of the waters is ensured by the amnion membranes - they update the composition of the waters every 3-4 hours so that they remain clean.

A child’s heart is anatomically no different from an adult heart; it supplies blood to the entire small body and works very diligently - the fetal heart pumps up to 20 liters of blood per day. Its performance can be judged by its heart rate. At week 14, the normal rate is 157 beats per minute.. Other values ​​are acceptable as long as they are between 146 and 168 beats per minute.

Is it possible to determine gender?

Theoretically, at 14 weeks you can determine the sex of the baby. But in practice this is quite difficult to do - the external genitalia are still so small that only a very experienced doctor with a very good ultrasound scanner can detect the differences in them. But even such a doctor will not guarantee the accuracy of his “prognosis”, advising him to ask a question about gender at the next scheduled ultrasound after the 18th week of pregnancy.

The development of the external genitalia is almost complete. Now boys' genital tubercles have already become penises, and girls' tubercles bend down, forming the clitoris and labia. In the body of future men, the hormone testosterone is already synthesized, and in girls, the ovaries migrate from the abdominal cavity, where they formed and developed, to the small pelvis to the place provided for them by nature. There are already more than 2 million eggs in girls' ovaries. In male fetuses, the prostate gland will form at this stage.

Growth of bones and muscles

Bone tissue is developing very actively this week. The thyroid gland functions, thanks to this the processes of calcium deposition in the bones become possible. The fetal bone skeleton becomes stronger. The bones of the skull, spine, and limbs are already hardening. All pairs of ribs are almost formed. Now they protect the chest organs. In connection with these processes the need for calcium increases several times.

Right now it is important that the concentration of this mineral in the blood of the expectant mother is sufficient. Otherwise, the baby will begin to “take” calcium from the mother’s bones, and her teeth may begin to decay, her hair will fall out, and her nails may break.

Muscle tissue grows no less actively. Now the child’s muscles in the limbs, back, and chest are formed and developing, but the most “mobile” ones at this stage are the facial muscles and facial muscles. This week the baby begins to smile. This smile is not something conscious, and for now the baby portrays it involuntarily.

In addition to smiling, the baby has already learned to open his mouth, stick out his tongue, make dissatisfied grimaces, and frown.

Respiratory system

The respiratory organs are formed. There are bronchi, tracheas, lungs. Now they are not yet ready to work independently, because the child is in an aquatic environment. But the lungs have already begun to make characteristic respiratory movements, and the number of such contractions can reach 70-80 per day. Surfactant, a substance necessary for independent breathing, is still accumulating in the lungs. This process “starts” at the end of pregnancy, before childbirth.

How is the child behaving?

If the expectant mother had the opportunity to watch her baby in real time for at least a few hours, she would be very surprised to see that the baby is not bored. All the time he is awake, he actively explores the space around him. He touches his face, clenches his fists, sucks his fingers, and plays with the umbilical cord if he can catch it. The fetus in the mother’s belly feels very at ease for now - it floats and turns over, somersaults.

Now he is very interested in his own person, and therefore he is actively studying himself - feeling, hugging himself by the shoulders, trying to reach his legs with his hands. He also yawns and hiccups.

What will the ultrasound show?

An ultrasound this week can be prescribed for various reasons - some women undergo screening, and among those who have already undergone such a diagnosis, it is recommended for those who have special medical indications, for example, a threat of miscarriage, suspected detachment of the membranes, multiple pregnancies, unsatisfactory screening results.

In any case, ultrasound diagnostics is always a very important moment for a woman, because it allows her to look at her baby. To make sure that everything is fine with the baby, ultrasound data is deciphered according to the existing average norms for a given stage of pregnancy.

This week, the somnologist determines where and how the child is located relative to the exit into the pelvis. But a woman should not be embarrassed if the doctor now determines that the baby is sitting or positioned transversely. His position will change more than once or twice. Several times a day during this period, the baby changes its position in the uterine cavity. The growth rate of a child can be judged by basic fetometric indicators.

The following fetal sizes are characteristic for 13-14 obstetric weeks.

The main dimensions of the fetus at 14 weeks of gestation:

If earlier the main size was considered to be the CTP (coccygeal-parietal size - the distance from the lower point of the coccyx to the upper point of the crown), now the main size is considered to be the bipariental size of the head (the distance between the temporal bones). However, CTE can also be measured by a doctor. Starting next week, CTE is not measured at all. For now, these are the norms.

CTE of the fetus at 14 weeks of gestation:

During ultrasound diagnostics this week, the child’s internal organs must be examined. If there are no pathologies, then the doctor does not describe their sizes, being content only with indicating that the organ is visualized and meets the standards. The only exception is the cerebellum - it is measured. Normal sizes for this week are from 1 to 1.5 centimeters.

Those pregnant women who are currently undergoing screening may notice that their babies are having two more parameters measured - nuchal translucency thickness (NVP) and the length of the nasal bones. These are special sizes that are only now being determined and can serve as markers of chromosomal abnormalities. Unfavorable signs are considered to be an increase in TVP relative to the norm and a decrease in the length of the baby’s nose. The standards with which the obtained indicators are compared are as follows:

• TVP – 1.7 mm (permissible fluctuations are in the range of 0.8-2.7 mm);
• the length of the nasal bones is 2.0-2.9 mm.

The number of vessels in the umbilical cord at week 14 should be 3, and the thickness of the placenta should be 16-16.85 mm. At this stage it is not yet said how much the baby weighs, since his weight in this trimester does not have much diagnostic value. Although the position of the placenta is determined, its low location is not considered critical yet, because the uterus grows, and with it the “baby place” rises.

If marginal chorionic presentation is diagnosed, the woman may be prescribed bed rest to eliminate the possibility of bleeding, which will last until the placenta rises higher.

Since the woman’s feelings have changed dramatically for the better since this week, toxicosis goes away, her appetite increases, and she may begin to overeat. This should not be allowed, because pathological weight gain will increase the chances of developing gestosis - a very dangerous condition for both the expectant mother and the baby. Right now it is important to reconsider your diet in order to provide your growing baby with everything he needs.

Calcium is more important now than ever. A pregnant woman's table must include dairy and fermented milk products, cottage cheese, spinach, fresh herbs, nuts, sea fish and red meats.

Iron is now necessary for the proper development of the child’s nervous system. Black currants, buckwheat porridge, apples will help “get” it. Magnesium is important for the mother’s nervous system and the functioning of the placenta. The need for vitamins A, C, and E is also great.

Right now, if this has not been done before, you need to consult with your doctor about the possibility of taking additional calcium supplements and choosing a multivitamin complex for expectant mothers.

This week the child’s emotionality begins to form and develop. This is exactly what perinatal psychologists say. The baby looks small, but it requires special treatment. According to experts, whether a child will be a pessimist or an optimist depends on what the world around him will be like now.

To make the world seem more friendly to him, it is from the beginning of the second trimester that psychologists recommend that a woman read kind and positive books, watch good films that do not contain scenes of violence, and, of course, talk to her baby so that he feels welcome.

The bad omens associated with early pregnancy no longer apply. Nowadays, a woman may not be afraid to tell others about her situation, and hiding her growing belly is no longer so easy. Right now you can go to a children's store and buy something for your baby. Mothers who have given birth two or more times know for sure that purchasing a “dowry” for a baby in the later stages is a rather painful undertaking, and now the woman feels lighter and better than ever, so why not start choosing a crib, stroller and cute “ trinkets" for a child?

Dangerous Weeks

Week 13-14 is a definite milestone in the development of the fetus and the course of pregnancy - the most crucial and dangerous period has ended. Toxicosis and the woman’s fears are left behind; the foundations of all systems and organs of the unborn baby have already been laid. Pregnancy has entered its calmest phase, when a woman can relax and enjoy her “special” position.

Fetal development at 13-14 weeks of pregnancy

At this time, the future human being moves from the embryonic stage to the fetal stage (therefore, abortion is no longer performed at this stage).

The baby already has a swallowing reflex. It can distinguish different tastes. If the mother eats something sour or bitter, the fetus’s swallowing movements become slower; on the contrary, the baby reacts to sweet foods by swallowing more frequently. The baby can not only distinguish tastes, but also remember them.

The child’s vocal apparatus is improving. The range of his facial activity is expanding - the baby can already shift his eyebrows, wince and squint depending on the action of certain stimuli. The baby's skin becomes sensitive, and at 13-14 weeks of pregnancy it is covered with a layer of protective thick lubricant. Since there is plenty of space in the uterine cavity at this time, the motor activity of the fetus is activated, although the mother does not yet feel it.

The genital organs of the fetus have formed, its gender has already been determined, but despite this, it is still difficult to accurately determine it on an ultrasound at 13-14 weeks of pregnancy.

The first hairs are already noticeable on the baby’s head, fluff (lanugo) appears on the body, which will disappear before the baby is born. The baby's ears take their rightful place, and the marigolds are fully formed. Periodically, the fetus can already empty its bladder, and its heart pumps about 20 liters of blood per day.

The length of the baby at this time is 16 cm, while it weighs about 135 g.

Woman's feelings

The emotional state of the expectant mother is stabilizing, but certain physiological changes associated with a lack of certain substances in the body can overshadow the good mood. Due to a deficiency of ascorbic acid, gum bleeding may increase and overall immunity may decrease. A lack of vitamin A affects the condition of hair, nails and skin. But, if you eat well and take multivitamin complexes, then these troubles can be avoided.

At 13-14 weeks the belly already becomes noticeable. A characteristic dark stripe appears on it, running down from the navel. But there is no need to worry about this - this is temporary pigmentation that will go away after childbirth.

A woman may also experience pain in the lower back and headaches. Back pain is associated with a gradual increase in the body weight of the expectant mother, which leads to a certain shift in the center of gravity. Dull pain in the lower abdomen may also occur, which occurs due to stretching of the ligaments that support the uterus. If the pain is constant or occurs suddenly and is cramping in nature, then this indicates the need to urgently consult a doctor.

During this period, the woman should continue to be vigilant and pay attention to the nature of the discharge from the genital tract. Normally, they should be light, uniform and moderate. If bleeding occurs at 13-14 weeks, this indicates the onset of a miscarriage. In this case, immediate intervention by specialists is required to prevent premature termination of pregnancy.

The 14th week of pregnancy is the beginning of the second trimester. The figure of a pregnant woman is changing more and more. The baby's internal organs are improving.

Mom's feelings

At the 14th obstetric week (methods for calculating the period), toxicosis stops in most women. Even if weak echoes persist, it is quite easy to overcome the manifestations of toxicosis (as -).

Eating fads often persist. You may even remember that a year ago you tried a very tasty salad at some eatery and want to eat the same one. But in your situation, it’s better not to go to cafes and eateries. Prepare a similar dish yourself - perhaps your family will like it too.

Some smells may still be offensive. But drowsiness no longer bothers you if you have the right daily routine. You are calm, but not at all inhibited. It’s just that control over emotions is gradually returning.

External changes

With the beginning of the second trimester, the tummy becomes rounded, rises higher and becomes more noticeable. Thin mothers, lying on the sofa and placing their hand on their stomach, can feel a solid lump under their palm. This is the uterus.

Photos of bellies:

The center of gravity of your body shifts quite a bit. The back leans back slightly, so it balances the increase in mass in the abdominal area, and the lumbar deflection increases. Because of this, the gait changes barely noticeably. So far, she does not look like that “duckling” step, waddling, which will appear in the later stages.

The breasts have already grown noticeably, sometimes by one size. Yellowish translucent droplets may be released from the nipples. The breasts train to produce colostrum, which will become the baby’s first nutrition after birth. There is no need to express yourself - this causes increased fluid outflow and uterine contractions.

The weight gain in the fourteenth week should be about 400 grams.

Changes can also be unpleasant:

• gums become bleeding, this is especially noticeable when brushing your teeth;
• problems with teeth appear (sensitivity, fragility);
• when combing, hair falls out more than before, the strands are dry, the ends split;
• excess weight appears.

You don’t need such changes, so consult your doctors. Specialists will adjust your diet, prescribe vitamins, and give advice on choosing shampoo and toothpaste.

Complications

During the day you can be in different states. Some of them are the norm. Tell your doctor if you have any concerns. He will check, explain this or that phenomenon, and give recommendations.

Note to moms!

Hello girls) I didn’t think that the problem of stretch marks would affect me too, and I’ll also write about it))) But there’s nowhere to go, so I’m writing here: How did I get rid of stretch marks after childbirth? I will be very glad if my method helps you too...

1. The load on your back is constantly increasing, which can lead to pain. Most often they are weak and go away if you simply change your body position.
2. The headache can be quite severe, sometimes with intolerance to bright light and strong sounds.
3. White or clear vaginal discharge without a strong odor indicates your good health. If the mucus is yellow, smells bad, or clumps (like cottage cheese), get checked for bacterial infections. Some (for example, thrush) can occur in the body on their own due to weakened immunity.
4. Bloody, brown discharge in rare cases indicates cervical erosion. Such discharge in combination with severe, cramping pain in the abdomen and lower back indicates a risk of fetal death. If this happens against the background of uterine contractions, a miscarriage will occur. When the dead fetus remains in the uterine cavity, doctors diagnose “frozen pregnancy,” and labor will have to be induced artificially.
5. Sometimes quite a lot of new moles or warts appear on the body of pregnant women. If they don't grow or get in the way, it's not a problem. Warts on the genitals or near the anus can be a nuisance. Your doctor will tell you how to safely remove such tumors.
6. During examination, a gynecologist may detect excessive shortening of the cervix. He may recommend installing a special ring that will prevent the cervix from opening prematurely.
7. It is important to prevent anemia (anemia), as this often leads to circulatory disorders, placental insufficiency and problems with fetal development.

Observations from a doctor

With timely registration, no routine examinations are required in the fourteenth week. The doctor will give directions for tests or prescribe an ultrasound scan only if absolutely necessary. During ultrasound examinations of pregnant women, the question is often asked: is it a boy or a girl? At 14 weeks of pregnancy, it is still very difficult to determine the sex of the child.

Ultrasound photo:

Due to the general sensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract, pregnant women are more susceptible to food poisoning. Nausea and vomiting resemble toxicosis, but with intoxication, diarrhea, abdominal pain appear, and the temperature may rise. Smecta or activated carbon will help remove toxins.

Colds in pregnant women cannot be treated with conventional medications like aspirin, so even with a slight runny nose, sore throat and relatively low temperature, call a doctor and take a sick leave to rest and fully recover.

What's happening to the baby

The organs and systems of the fetus are actively growing and improving. If the mother eats properly, walks and rests as much as necessary, the baby feels good, he is active and does not experience discomfort.

• The tiny face frowns, grimaces, the lips can stretch into a smile.
• The fetal head circumference is approximately 26-28 mm.
• The baby floats freely in the amniotic fluid and moves its limbs. Having touched the wall of the amniotic sac with its legs, it can push off.
• The chest rises and falls from time to time, as if breathing.
• The baby's skin is covered with a special lubricant that prevents the fetus from literally getting wet.
• The child’s blood has not yet fully acquired its full biochemical composition, but the Rh factor has already been determined.
• The neck muscles have become a little stronger, the head no longer drops to the chest.
• The child distinguishes sounds from the outside, although muffled.
• If a mother is worried, afraid of something, or especially happy, the hormones that are produced in her blood also enter the child’s blood. At the same time, the fetal heart begins to beat faster.
• Sweat glands are formed.
• The process of hematopoiesis starts in the spinal cord.
• Ossification of the skeleton continues.
• The light fluff on the head becomes a little coarser to later form into hair.
• The ears take on their final shape.

This is interesting. Sometimes you can come across the opinion that the fetal facial expression reflects its emotions, and the baby’s somersaults are a deliberate action. In fact, all movements of the fetus are reflexive, unconscious. Motor coordination will continue to develop for many weeks and months after the baby is born..

Photo of the fetus:

1. The main nutritional need now is increased protein nutrition. The diet should include more lean meat, fatty fish and legumes.
2. If you still have a problem with constipation, do not forget about prunes and dried apricots.
3. In case of sudden hunger or thirst, always carry a small “emergency supply” with you.
4. Try not to eat canned foods, smoked foods, and fatty foods.
5. Steam everything you can. Baked dishes are in second place, and boiled ones are in third place. It is better to avoid fried foods.
6. Alcohol and nicotine are prohibited under any circumstances, even at the wedding of a beloved friend.
7. Stop wearing heels, high wedges and platforms anymore.
8. Do exercises for pregnant women every day, if possible, go to yoga, special fitness, or to the pool.
9. If you have time and desire, go to courses for parents (together with the child’s father).
10. On public transport, do not hesitate to say that you are pregnant and ask to give you a seat.
11. If you are a “car mom,” have a small pillow for your lower back in the car. You need to sit straight behind the wheel without moving your knees. Every time, check how comfortably you are fastened. You can purchase special seat belts for pregnant women. Never direct the air flow in your direction or create drafts in the cabin.
12. Read books about motherhood, caring for a newborn, and raising children.
13. Sexual life is not prohibited if there are no restrictions for health reasons, and your well-being allows or even requires it.

This is important. Do not perceive recommendations as a burden or a restriction of your freedom. Pregnancy should bring joy. You can always give yourself a little indulgence and eat a slice of smoked sausage, skip your morning exercises and watch your favorite movie, even if it makes you worry and cry. The main thing is that the general background of your life is favorable and healthy.

Participation of the child's father

Men approach their upcoming fatherhood differently. Some are busy with work and are only casually interested in the health and condition of the expectant mother. Others get annoyed by the “pregnant” whims. There are very caring, attentive fathers, and this is the best option. It’s worse when concern turns into a commanding tone and all kinds of prohibitions.

Even if the pregnancy was planned and long-awaited, the child's father may not be 100% prepared for everything that happens over the next many months. Harmony and mutual understanding in the family will certainly help future parents overcome possible stress and problems. If they noticeably worsen or deteriorate, a joint consultation with a psychologist would not hurt.

The 14th week of pregnancy in general is the beginning of the calmest period of pregnancy. The problems of the first trimester are left behind, the happiness of imminent motherhood is felt to the fullest.

Visible guide: 14th week of pregnancy, sensations in the abdomen, what is happening, the size of the fetus, pulling in the lower abdomen

This period of pregnancy is often called the “golden” period, because during it nausea and other symptoms disappear, the expectant mother feels energetic and full of strength. Sometimes the second trimester is also called the “honeymoon of pregnancy.” This is the best time for shopping trips, arranging a future children's room, and for short trips.

Signs and symptoms of 14 weeks pregnant

Many of the symptoms that bothered you in the early weeks of pregnancy should subside during the second trimester. Don't worry if this hasn't happened yet. You may still not feel very well at 14 weeks of pregnancy, but your condition will change very soon.

So, at the fourteenth week of pregnancy, the expectant mother may experience the following symptoms:
· Round ligament pain. Manifests itself in the form of pain and cramps in the lower abdomen. It occurs because the growth of the uterus leads to stretching of muscles and ligaments. There is nothing wrong with these sensations, but if the pain is very severe, you need to visit a doctor.

Picture caption: Ligaments of the uterus. LetterR stands for round ligament.
· Increased energy. Gradually, you will begin to notice that you feel better, more energetic, and every day you manage to do more and more things.

· Increased appetite. It usually increases as soon as morning nausea stops bothering you.

· Improved hair appearance. They seem more magnificent, shiny, beautiful.

· Some expectant mothers experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, nosebleeds, and snoring at night.. This occurs due to increased blood flow to the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity.

· Disappearance of nausea. This annoying symptom will stop tormenting most women in the second trimester, but not everyone will be lucky. Some people will feel sick for a long time. Sometimes the symptom persists until the very end of pregnancy. In order to cope with it, try not to eat large portions, drink more fluids, and avoid unpleasant odors. Some women find ginger helpful: it can be added to drinks.

· "Fog" in the head. Do you notice that you often forget everything? This is normal, because your body has to spend a lot of resources on the growth and development of the child.

· Unusual food cravings. Some expectant mothers begin to develop an appetite for inedible objects, for example, a piece of coal, chalk, or red brick.

· Mood swings. This symptom will accompany you throughout your pregnancy, but with the beginning of the second trimester, your emotional state will stabilize somewhat. The following can throw you off balance: hormonal changes, fatigue, stress, conflicts.

What happens to the fetus at 14 weeks of pregnancy?

At week 14, the fetus is approximately the size of a peach. Its body length is 8–9 cm, weight – 42–43 grams. The baby acquires many new skills: now he can move his eyes to his nose, make various grimaces, urinate and even suck his finger. The brain begins to frequently send impulses to the facial muscles, thanks to which they constantly train and develop. This helps shape facial features. The movements of the arms and legs (the length of which is now approximately 1–1.5 cm) become smoother and more active. But many mothers still do not feel how the fetus is “pushing” in the uterus. A unique appearance appears on the fingers papillary pattern– now the unborn child has his own unique fingerprints.

The baby's body grows faster than the head, its proportions gradually level out and approach those of a newborn child. The growth of the arms relative to the body practically stops, the legs continue to “stretch”. The skin of the fetus at 14 weeks of pregnancy is still almost transparent, thin, delicate hairs begin to grow on it - lanugo. While there is no subcutaneous fat layer, they help regulate body temperature and avoid hypothermia. By the time of childbirth, lanugos most often fall out completely. The first hairs appear on the head, eyelashes and eyebrows appear. The eyes are still closed and will not open soon - at approximately 23 weeks.
The head continues to grow, and the eyes move even closer to the nose. The neck becomes more and more clearly visible, the head rises more strongly above the body.

The baby's kidneys actively produce urine, which he then releases into the amniotic fluid. The liver is actively working (now it can synthesize bile), the spleen produces red blood cells - erythrocytes. Blood cells are formed at an accelerated pace in the red bone marrow. The fetus’s body begins to independently produce hormones, and its thyroid gland has matured. The development of the reproductive system is accelerated. Boys develop a “man’s second heart” - prostate. After a couple of weeks, they will be able to experience a full erection.

The child makes breathing movements - he is already preparing for life outside his mother’s tummy. His intestines begin to produce primary stool - meconium, which will go away shortly after birth.

Ultrasound at 14 weeks of pregnancy

If you are 14 weeks pregnant and still haven't had your first routine ultrasound, you should hurry up. Firstly, the deadline for the first screening is coming to an end. Secondly, you are depriving yourself of a lot of interesting and touching moments. During the ultrasound examination, you will hear your baby's heart beating. Maybe he'll even show you how he sucks his thumb.

Ultrasound images at 14 weeks look something like this:

What happens to the uterus and abdomen at 14 weeks of pregnancy?

At the fourteenth week of pregnancy, the uterus enlarges so much that the belly becomes clearly visible.
At 14 weeks of pregnancy, the doctor can measure fundal height of the uterus- the distance between its uppermost part and the pubic bones.

This indicator helps to assess the development of the fetus and the amount of amniotic fluid, and indirectly judge the weight of the baby and the gestational age. At the fourteenth week, the normal height of the uterine fundus is 12–18 cm. Deviations from these indicators may indicate certain conditions:

· Decrease in fundal height of the uterus to less than 12 cm: oligohydramnios(a decrease in the amount of amniotic fluid, in the professional language of doctors is called oligohydramnios), delayed growth and development of the fetus.

· Increase in the height of the uterine fundus by more than 18 cm: polyhydramnios (hydramnios– increased amount of amniotic fluid), placenta previa, macrosomia(large fruit size).

During visits to the antenatal clinic, the doctor measures the abdominal circumference and the height of the uterine fundus using a flexible measuring tape. You can carry out the procedure yourself:
1. First, empty your bladder.

2. The measurement must be taken while lying on your back.

3. Feel the top edge of your pubic joint. This is not always easy, since the bones in this area are hidden under a layer of fat. You can focus on the upper limit of pubic hair growth.

4. Then feel the fundus of the uterus. You need to act carefully, remembering that there is a baby in your tummy.

5. Take a flexible measuring tape. Place the “0” mark on the upper edge of the pubic joint. Measure the distance to the fundus of the uterus.

Please remember that no conclusions can be drawn from self-measurements. If you find any abnormalities, consult your doctor.

How much weight should an expectant mother gain?

Perhaps at 14 weeks of pregnancy you will notice that your weight has begun to increase much faster. This is normal, because your symptoms of the first trimester have probably already passed, nausea has stopped bothering you, and your appetite has returned to normal. In addition, your baby is growing quickly, and your uterus is expanding along with it.
Calculate mother's weight gain during pregnancy by week

If before pregnancy your weight was average, starting from the fourteenth week you need to add 450 grams. If you are pregnant with twins, then until about 20 weeks you will gain weight at approximately the same pace.
If you think you are gaining weight too quickly, consult your doctor. Perhaps he will give recommendations on nutrition or advise you to spend more time on physical exercise.

How to eat properly?

The fetus cannot feed itself; it has to rely entirely on its mother. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins and calories - the supply of all this to a small developing body depends on your diet.

Calm down: you don’t need to buy any exotic products, take expensive dietary supplements and “eat for two.” All that is required of you: your nutrition should be complete and varied. Almost everything you need is already in your refrigerator. Now, at week 14, when nausea has probably stopped bothering you, it’s time to get your diet in order.

It is worth dwelling in more detail on some substances necessary for the fetus.

Folic acid

Surely the doctor prescribed you folic acid supplements during your first visit to the antenatal clinic. This substance is essential for the proper development of your baby's brain and spinal cord, and your body can get it from more than just prenatal vitamins.
Foods rich in folic acid include:
· Whole grains.
· Green leafy vegetables.
· Beans.
· Bananas.
· Milk.
· Broccoli.

As for folic acid supplements, you should start taking them before you become pregnant. The recommended daily dose before pregnancy is 400 mcg, during pregnancy – 600 mcg.

Iron

It is part of hemoglobin and is involved in the transport of oxygen by red blood cells. This is especially important for the expectant mother, since during pregnancy the hormone progesterone expands the lumen of blood vessels, and blood volume increases. Accordingly, the number of red blood cells should increase. If there are too few of them, anemia develops.
Iron-rich foods:
· Beef.
· Duck meat.
· Soy products.
· Jacket potatoes.
· Spinach.
· Dried fruits.

Calcium

This mineral is necessary for the formation of strong teeth and bones in a child. It reduces the risk for the expectant mother preeclampsia and helps prevent osteoporosis later in life. You can provide your body with its daily requirement of calcium by consuming foods such as:
· Milk.
· Juices fortified with calcium.
· Sesame seeds.
· Almonds.
· Green leafy vegetables.
· Soy products.
· Canned salmon.
· Sardines.
· Broccoli.

Vitamin C

In addition to other beneficial effects, ascorbic acid is needed for the synthesis collagen– the main protein of connective tissue. It is necessary for the normal development of cartilage, ligaments, muscles, blood vessels, and bones. If the expectant mother receives a sufficient amount of vitamin C, she is protected from premature rupture of membranes, and her baby will be born at a good weight.
Sources of ascorbic acid during pregnancy:
· Orange juice.
· Fruits: mango, papaya, melon, strawberry.
· Vegetables: red bell pepper, broccoli.
· Carrot, tomato juice.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is needed by the growing fetus for the normal formation of teeth and bones, as it is involved in calcium metabolism. In addition, it has been scientifically proven that a lack of this substance in a pregnant woman’s body increases the risk of autism in a child by 2 times. The main sources of vitamin D are milk and sunlight. If you can't consume dairy products and don't spend much time outdoors, you'll have to think about additional sources of the vitamin. Please pay attention to the following products:
· Canned sardines.
· Orange juice.
· Egg yolk.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Necessary for the development of the brain and retina of the eye, must be supplied to the body of the expectant mother daily. You can get omega-3 fatty acids from the following foods:
· Trout.
· Anchovy.
· Sardines.
· Salmon.
· Eggs.

Physical activity

Many expectant mothers at 14 weeks of pregnancy feel a surge of strength and become more energetic, but some still experience increased fatigue. Is this a reason to constantly relax and lie on the couch? No. Of course, proper rest is necessary for a pregnant woman, but if it becomes almost constant, it makes the woman even more lethargic, apathetic, and discourages any desire to do anything.
You need exercise. You may be reluctant to do them at first, but gradually they will make you more energetic, help you feel better, and get you back in good shape. Moreover, in order to remain physically active, it is not at all necessary to specifically go to the gym and load your body with some super complex exercises.

For example, walking 30 minutes a day is enough. Preferably in the fresh air. Some types of exercise, such as yoga, require little to no effort at all. On the contrary, they help you relax and feel even more pleasant than spending time on the couch under a warm blanket. Swimming in the pool provides excellent relaxation, because in the water your body weight decreases, tense muscles and ligaments relax.
You may very soon notice that after physical exercise you get a charge of vigor and good mood. The half-asleep state evaporates!

In general, outdoor activities are better than indoor activities. Therefore, a park is better than an apartment, and a stadium is better than an indoor gym. But some exercises are best done indoors. For example, if you love cycling, then you should install an exercise bike in your apartment. On a bicycle you can lose your balance and fall.
It's common to feel an appetite after exercise, so be sure to pack some light snacks when heading to class. Be sure to bring a bottle of water or your other favorite drink. Dehydration should not be allowed; now it is dangerous for both you and the unborn child.

Many pregnant women, especially working ones, complain about lack of time. There is so little of it left that there is no time to even do morning exercises. In fact, you can always find time. When going to work, go one stop. Park your car away from your work area so you can walk. Opportunity can always be found.

And the most important rule during pregnancy: physical activity should be in moderation, fanaticism is inappropriate. If you have health problems or are experiencing complications during your pregnancy, you should consult your doctor before starting exercise.

Is it possible to have sex?

You can have sex at almost any stage of pregnancy. It won't harm the baby in any way. However, it is worth remembering some contraindications:
· Bleeding.
· Water broke.
· The doctor has discovered other conditions in which sex is contraindicated.

If pain occurs during intimacy, you need to stop. If pain or severe cramping persists for more than two hours after sexual intercourse, you should immediately call a doctor.

· If you are often stressed, try to rest more and talk to people who support you.

· If you still haven’t bought a maternity and nursing bra, your breasts are already screaming at you that it’s time to do so. It increases, and wearing a regular bra becomes more and more uncomfortable.

If you continue to experience severe nausea, you should consult your doctor. You need to make sure that your unborn child receives the necessary substances.

Toxins - Video guide week 14