Week 19 of Pregnancy
Baby develops a protective coating
Your baby is the size of a
Big tomato
(Tomato) ยท approximately 15.3 cm
๐ Baby's Development at Week 19
A waxy coating called vernix caseosa covers the baby's skin, protecting it from the amniotic fluid. The baby's brain is designating specialised areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Sensory development is at a peak. The kidneys are producing urine. If your baby is a girl, she already has about six million eggs in her ovaries.
Length
15.3 cm
Weight
240 g
๐ Your Body at Week 19
Your belly is growing rapidly. You may experience hip pain as your body relaxes ligaments in preparation for birth. Skin changes like darkening of the face (melasma) may be more noticeable.
Common Symptoms
- Hip pain
- Dizziness
- Abdominal aches as uterus grows
- Skin darkening (melasma)
- Increased appetite
- Difficulty finding comfortable sleeping position
๐ก Tips for Week 19
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Avoid high heels as your balance is shifting. Apply sunscreen to your face to minimize melasma. Continue moisturizing your belly with shea butter or cocoa butter to reduce stretch marks.
๐ฅ Nutrition Advice
Healthy fats are crucial for baby's brain and eye development. Avocado, palm oil (in moderation), groundnut oil, and oily fish are good Nigerian sources. A serving of avocado pear with toast or crackers makes a nutritious snack. Native jollof rice cooked with palm oil and dry fish is another tasty option.
๐ฅ What to Ask Your Doctor
Discuss any concerns about your anatomy scan. If you want to know your baby's sex, let your sonographer know before the scan begins.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your pregnancy or health condition.