At the 12th week of pregnancy, the first trimester is almost coming to an end. Toxicosis is about to stop. The child does not stop developing, along with which the risk of early miscarriage gradually goes away. During this period, the expectant mother needs to carefully monitor her health so that the next weeks of pregnancy pass without complications.
What happens in a woman's body
The uterus of the future woman in labor barely fits in the pelvic space, gradually occupying most of the abdominal cavity. In this regard, the belly becomes more and more noticeable, although it does not interfere too much so far. Toxicosis may already stop, or its symptoms are not felt so strongly. The emotional state also stabilizes, for example, a woman stops panicking because of the likelihood of losing a child. However, slight irritability and hypersensitivity may still persist.
In addition, the following phenomena occur in the body:
- the heart, kidneys and liver work in an enhanced mode;
- the intestines are not always stable, which turns into constipation and diarrhea;
- frequent urination may persist due to pressure from the uterus on the bladder;
- amniotic fluid is regularly updated, so it is important to drink more fluids;
- the volume of blood increases slightly;
- the breast grows noticeably, and colostrum may already appear (it is by no means necessary to express it).
At the 12th week of pregnancy, the skin on the abdomen is quite noticeably stretched, which can cause itching. The stomach itself, as well as the lower back, can sometimes ache, and this remains within the normal range. It is important to pay attention to vaginal discharge: if it is transparent and does not have a pungent odor, there is nothing to worry about, but in case of bloody or simply abundant and foul-smelling discharge, you should immediately consult a doctor.
The following phenomena are also considered quite normal:
- legs can constantly "buzz" after long walking;
- the limbs swell slightly;
- hair grows noticeably, while becoming dry and brittle;
- food quirks persist.
Fetal development
By the onset of the 12th week, the size of the fruit is 6 cm, which is comparable to a small lemon. The weight is practically not felt and is about 9-12 g. The following happens in the baby's body:
- Most of the organs and systems are formed. Some perform basic functions (heart), others develop and improve (intestines).
- Eyebrows and eyelashes begin to grow.
- A unique pattern is formed on the fingertips.
- The membranes between the fingers disappear and the nails grow.
- Facial expressions develop.
- White blood cells are actively formed in the blood, which will regulate the baby's immunity.
- Some reflexes are already working: the child is able to clench and unclench his fists, make swallowing and breathing movements. He still cannot breathe fully, since the uterus is filled with fluid, and oxygen enters through the umbilical cord and placenta through the blood vessels.
- The pancreas begins to produce bile.
- Bone tissues are actively strengthened.
Medical supervision
The visit to the antenatal clinic should be carried out in accordance with the schedule. Between the 11th and 13th weeks, it is time for screening - a comprehensive examination of the mother and the unborn baby. First of all, this includes an ultrasound scan, in which the doctor checks the special parameters of the fetus, including the size of the occipital region to prevent the threat of Down syndrome. Also, due to blood tests for certain hormones, all kinds of defects are revealed.
Before the onset of the 12th week, the woman still has the right to terminate the pregnancy. In the future, this is allowed only for certain indications:
- fatal malformations of the fetus;
- a threat to the life of the mother;
- if pregnancy has occurred as a result of the use of violence.
In addition to screening, a woman may be assigned general blood and urine tests, as well as taking a vaginal smear for various infections and diseases. A survey of the future woman in labor is being conducted about her well-being, the situation in the family and the health of the next of kin. The doctor measures the pressure, weight and size of the pelvis.
Recommendations
All pregnant women are given various recommendations, most of which relate to nutrition and maintaining the body in good health. At the 12th week, it is necessary to especially carefully monitor the diet, since this allows you to avoid the further development of all kinds of pathologies. The following must be done:
- give up smoking and alcohol;
- do not consume fast food, carbonated and non-carbonated drinks with the addition of dyes and stabilizers;
- if possible, do not drink tea and coffee;
- be sure to have several meals a day and not refuse breakfast, even if symptoms of toxicosis are present;
- add more fruits and vegetables, cereals and dairy products, lean meat and fish to the diet;
- steam, bake or cook food, giving up fried food;
- take vitamins prescribed by your doctor.
Any colds during this period are fraught with multiple complications, since conventional pills and other medications are contraindicated for pregnant women. That is why it is necessary to avoid crowded places during epidemics, wear a medical mask when going outside and visiting various institutions. If you do get sick, be sure to talk to your doctor about which medications to use. Only the safest of them are allowed, for example, furacilin or herbal tinctures used to gargle the throat. For the treatment of a cold, sea water can be used, and pains in the head and limbs are relieved by medical massage of certain points.
Don't wear high-heeled shoes. It is also important to make sure that the soles will not slip in the winter, otherwise the fall will result in inevitable injury and also pose a threat to the baby. You can protect yourself with an ordinary adhesive plaster, sticking strips from it on the soles or heels. You should also go over your wardrobe, giving up tight and poorly breathable clothing. You only need to wear loose things in which the skin feels comfortable, does not sweat and does not freeze.
Watch your own weight. If it starts to increase noticeably, be sure to consult with your doctor to adjust your diet and, if necessary, take special medications. Try to avoid stress and anxiety: emotional overloads greatly tire an already weakened body. It is also important to strengthen the body through sports - going to the pool, special yoga or gymnastics for pregnant women.
