Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Baby Good Week 16

Fetal Development:
If you haven't already, you may begin to feel movement as the baby's bones harden. The legs are now longer than the arms, and s/he is moving those arms and legs frequently, especially since there's still lots of room to move within the uterus. (I feel the baby moving every once in awhile, which reminds me I'm pregnant!)

Fingernails and toenails are growing too. In fact, some babies need their nails clipped right after birth!

Maternal Changes:
Do you have a stuffy nose or nosebleeds? As mentioned before, your blood volume increases 40% - 50%. This affects your estrogen levels which in turn swells your nasal membranes. This increased blood volume also causes your heart to work harder to support your pregnancy. This isn't a problem for a healthy heart.

Your ligaments continue to stretch, and you may be feeling achiness and pain in your abdomen. Your waistline is definitely a thing of the past, and your feet may be swelling by the end of the day.

Ideas for Dad:
Dad, do you both have a life insurance policy and a will? It may sound morbid to think about now but this is a perfect time to get them. If something should happen to either of your baby's parents, the other shouldn't have to worry about mortgage payments, college tuition, etc.

No comments: