Pregnancy calendar - week #16

Pregnant mothers - week #16

To peek or not to peek?

Perhaps you're the woman who's always thought she'd have 3 beautiful, curly-haired girls who wear frilly dresses and love using glitter lip gloss. Or maybe you've fantasized about having a balanced family--a boy and girl. Or maybe a couple of boys who are studious, well-behaved, and perfect gentlemen.

While these scenerios seldom play out like they do in your head, you may soon get an early glimpse into the future. Through ultrasounds, you may be able to detect the sex of your baby (or babies!) If you don't want to know, tell your doctor, so he doesn't give you an accidental 'peek' at baby's distinguishing parts.

If you're that woman who finds it difficult to stick to an exercise plan, but have tried thus far in your pregnancy, you should consider finding an exercise buddy to help you stay motivated. Planning a regular exercise schedule with someone (another expecting mom, your partner, or family member) will help you stay regular with your activity.

Are you drinking enough fluids? You should be getting 8 glasses of water a day. Also, watch your salt intake; avoid excessive intake of salty foods like lunch meats, chips, and processed and frozen convenience foods.

Between weeks 15 and 20, you'll most likely take a Maternal serum-alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test (say that 5 times fast!) This routine blood test screens for certain genetic conditions, neural tube defects, Down Syndrome, retardation, and other pregnancy complications. Keep in mind this test doesn't diagnose a problem, it only indicates whether further testing is needed.

Baby and fetal development - week #16

Magenta or neon green?

If you are fantasizing about a baby girl, here's an exciting week 16 developement: her fingernails (and his too!) are formed. Some babies even need their nails clipped at birth. So the important question: what color nail polish are you going to paint them when she's old enough?

In week 16, baby starts emptying her bladder every 40-45 minutes. How does that compare to you, now that there's extra pressure on your poor little bladder?

Your precious little boy or girl is now about 3 ounces and 6.3 inches, and about the size of an avocado. Speaking of avocado...they contain 20 beneficial nutrients and healthy fats. Great pregnancy food!

Over the next 3 weeks or so, baby is scheduled for a big growth spurt. She will nearly double in weight and grow 3 inches.

Pregnant dads - week #16

Make her smile!

This is the perfect time to plan something special for your partner. She's super cute with that little bump she has going, and is most likely feeling pretty good in her second trimester.

We suggest planning a weekend get-away. Check out a romantic Bed and Breakfast within driving distance. Even a one-day activity would be much appreciated. Take her to dinner and a movie, a cooking class, or even a health spa. Trust us, she'll love it!