Pregnancy Calendar: Week 19 - Week 24

Week 19 -This is an impressive week for growth of the baby. The baby will increase in weight to 8 ounces (227 grams). If you are having a girl, her ovaries now contain primitive egg cells. Lanugo appears all over the baby's body. This fine hair will remain until birth draws nearer. Sometimes you can still see some on the baby's face and ears after birth.

Week 20 - The belly button may pop out and stay that way as your uterus presses upwards. Some people will have trouble breathing as their lungs become cramped. This will usually continue until the baby "drops." In a first pregnancy this can occur as early as 4-6 weeks before your birth or not until labor as with subsequent pregnancies. Once the baby "drops." You will have to urinate more frequently. Remembering to do your pelvic tilts prior to laying down will hopefully allow you a few more minutes before the next bathroom break.

Week 21 -The baby can still move all over in the amniotic fluid. Towards the end of this trimester the baby will begin to settle, usually in a head down position (Although some babies do not turn head down until late in the last trimester.). About 3-4% of babies will remain in a breech position at term. Your baby weighs just under a pound (13 ounces or 369 grams).

Week 22 - You are still feeling pretty good and active in this second trimester. If you are still having aches and pains or feel like you are slowing down you may want to look into some different remedies for the problems you're experiencing..

Week 23 - During your appointments your practitioner may palpate your abdomen. This process is a way of feeling the position of the baby. A tape measure will also be used to measure your fundal height. This is the top of your uterus and is a good indicator of the continued growth of your baby. Some people will worry if they measure a bit "too big" or "too small." However, it is completely normal to have slight variations at this point. Be sure to ask your practitioner if you are worried.

Week 24 - Your fundus (top of the uterus) reaches just above your navel. You are now aware of your baby's movements and may even be able to tell the sleep/wake cycles of your little one. It is important to recognize the signs of premature labor. Premature labor is actually more common in the summer months, thought to be caused by dehydration in some women, so continue drinking lots of water.