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Women’s Services   

  Women’s Services

Your Pregnancy at Week 13

This week, your baby is as big as a lemon.

Explore your pregnancy at Week 13

Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14
Week 15
Week 16
Week 17

27 Weeks to go!

The following information was reviewed by Dr. Cheng Ka Ning, Katherine 

At A Glance

Week-13

As you start the second trimester and approach mid-pregnancy you should start to regain your strength as many of the draining pregnancy symptoms will start to dissipate.

As the baby's body continues to develop, the body begins to balance on both sides, and the head has developed to half the size of the baby's complete size.

It is time for a routine ultrasound examination again! Regular prenatal check-ups help ensure the health of mother and baby.

Baby Development at 13 Weeks

Stomach-functioning

Stomach and kidneys start functioning

At week 13 of fetal development, the baby's stomach is rapidly developing and beginning to produce gastric juice, and the muscles of the stomach wall are beginning to practice contraction and prepare for digesting food. Additionally, the kidneys are also working silently, producing and excreting urine into the amniotic fluid. If it is a boy, the baby's testicles will start producing testosterone.

Vocal-Cord-Development

Vocal cord development

The baby's vocal cords have officially begun to develop.

Immune-System

The immune system matures

Bone marrow has begun to produce white blood cells, which will protect the baby from pathogens after birth.

Your Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 13

Mum officially enters the second trimester of pregnancy, the symptoms of discomfort begin to decrease, but there are still things to look out for. Learn more about second trimester symptoms, baby development at week 13, and advice from your obstetrician.

Physical recovery

Now that the body has adapted to the state of pregnancy, you might feel more comfortable doing exercise. Speak to a women’s health physiotherapist for advice on the types of exercise you can do.

Constipation

The muscles of the gut also relax during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, which means they are less effective at moving waste out. To prevent constipation, it is recommended to eat more high-fibre foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Cravings

You may suddenly want to eat things that you usually don't like.

Prominent abdominal and breast veins

The veins in the abdomen and breasts become more visible as your baby grows. Be sure to monitor your veins and treat your skin well to prevent stretch marks! Your Obstetrician, Midwife or Dermatologist will be able to point you the right direction. 

Dizziness

Dizziness can still occur during pregnancy, so try to move your body slowly and make sure to sit or lie down immediately if you feel light-headed.

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Advice from OT&P Obstetricians

In addition to the first prenatal visit, pregnant women should not be lax in terms of their daily diet and nutritional supplements. As the baby's nervous system and spinal cord are developing, folic acid should be used. Folic acid is found naturally in whole grains, green leafy vegetables, beans, bananas, broccoli and milk, as well as in supplements.

If you have any questions about taking nutritional supplements, you should consult a nutritionist or obstetrician to formulate the most suitable pregnancy meal list. It is also recommended by doctors that pregnant women should take a prenatal vitamin every day.

Tips for 13 Weeks Pregnant

  • Ensure that you are getting enough folic acid, calcium, and iron in your daily diet.
  • Try eating smaller meals more often, as this can help with digestion and reduce constipation, bloating, and flatulence.
  • At this time, pregnant women may experience an increase in libido. Engaging in sexual activity during pregnancy can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improve sleep and mood, and even speed up postpartum recovery.
  • For more information, read articles about the dos and don'ts of sex during pregnancy.
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