Week 14 of Pregnancy: First Visible Symptoms. Is the Bump Showing?

Symptoms

• Increased energy
  Many women feel less tired and more vital compared to the first few weeks.
• Reduction in nausea and vomiting
  For most, nausea decreases or disappears completely at this stage.
• Increased appetite
  With the reduction in nausea, it is common for hunger to increase. It is important to choose healthy foods.
• Nasal congestion
  Increased blood flow and hormonal changes can cause inflammation in the nasal membranes, leading to congestion or a runny nose.
• Mild headaches
  These may appear due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume
  . Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive caffeine can help.
• Increased vaginal discharge
  It is normal to have more clear or whitish vaginal discharge due to increased blood flow to the pelvic area.
• Mild abdominal pain or a feeling of tightness
  The growth of the uterus and the stretching of ligaments can cause mild discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Skin changes
  Some women notice a “pregnancy glow” due to increased blood flow, while others may develop skin spots (chloasma).
• Constipation
  Progesterone relaxes the muscles of the digestive system, which can slow down intestinal transit. Drinking enough water and consuming fiber helps prevent it.
• Increased gum sensitivity
  You may notice bleeding when brushing your teeth due to increased blood flow to the gums.
  
  

Baby’s size

• This week, the baby measures approximately 8.5 to 9 cm long and weighs around 40 grams, similar to the size of a lemon.
• Their face is more defined, and the eyes and ears have moved closer to their final position.
• They are starting to move their facial muscles, making gestures such as frowning or opening and closing their mouth.
• Lanugo develops, which is a fine layer of hair that covers the baby’s skin and helps them stay warm.
• Their organs continue to mature; the liver is already producing bile, while the spleen begins to generate red blood cells.
• Their kidneys are functioning better and eliminating urine into the amniotic fluid.
  The bones are strengthening, and the baby is increasingly active, although the mother may not yet feel their movements.

Changes in the Mother

• The uterus has grown and is now located above the pubic bone, which may cause the abdomen to become more visible.
• Hormone levels stabilize, which reduces nausea and improves mood.
• An increase in energy and libido may be experienced.
• Some women may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which is normal as long as it does not have a foul odor or an abnormal color.
• The skin may become more luminous due to increased blood flow, although some women may develop skin spots due to hormonal changes.

Recommended Care

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, calcium, and essential fatty acids.
• Continue taking folic acid and other supplements recommended by your doctor.
• Engage in moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga to strengthen the body and reduce stress.
• Hydrate adequately to avoid dizziness and constipation.
• Use sunscreen to prevent skin spots.
• Attend prenatal check-ups and undergo recommended medical tests.
  
  

What should be done?

• Continue with Prenatal Check-ups
• Attend medical consultations to monitor the baby’s growth.
• Inquire about optional tests, such as second-trimester screening to detect potential abnormalities.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet
• Consume foods rich in iron, calcium, protein, and fiber.
• Drink enough water to avoid dehydration and constipation.
• Avoid processed foods and those high in sugar.
• Continue Supplementation
• Continue taking folic acid and other supplements indicated by your doctor, such as iron and calcium.
• Practice Moderate Exercise
• Walking, swimming, or doing prenatal yoga helps strengthen the body and reduce stress.
• Avoid high-impact exercises or sports with a risk of falling.
• Care for Skin and Body
• Use moisturizing creams or oils to prevent stretch marks.
• Apply sunscreen to avoid skin spots due to hormonal changes.
• Improve Dental Hygiene
• Brush your teeth after every meal and use dental floss to prevent gingivitis.
• Sleep in an Appropriate Position
• Start getting used to sleeping on your side, preferably on the left side, to improve circulation to the baby.
• Avoid Stress
• Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
• Organize your time to avoid unnecessary worries.
• Choose Comfortable Clothing
• Wear loose-fitting garments and maternity bras that provide good support.
• Sex.
  Women are more prone to suffering from osteoarthritis, although it is not clear why.
• Genetics.
  Some people inherit the tendency to develop osteoarthritis.
• Bone deformities.
  Some people are born with malformed joints or defective cartilage.
• Repetitive stress on the joint.
  If your job or a sport you practice subjects a joint to repetitive stress, that joint could develop osteoarthritis over time.