Your Pregnancy at Week 13

Help is finally here! In the form of your perfectly grown placenta! Now you're in the second trimester, the newly grown placenta takes over the care and maintenance of your baby, as it busily provides your baby with all the nutrients and oxygen it needs. At the same time, the placenta takes away all the waste products that the baby doesn't need.

As a result, some of those pesky pregnancy symptoms may be taking a back seat and you get a little extra spring back in your step! You may be also getting a little extra growth around your waistline and your clothes may be starting to pinch just a little!

Don't forget - eating for two is an old wives' tale to be ignored. You will regret it later down the line if you put on lots of unnecessary weight, as baby only needs a maximum of 200 calories, mainly in the third trimester though, so look after yourself and keep treats to that all too boring minimum!

Increased energy: You may notice a welcome boost in your energy levels this week as your body adjusts to the second trimester. This surge in energy can make everyday tasks feel more manageable and allow you to engage in activities you enjoy that you might not have managed in recent weeks!

Increased mood: With the first trimester's hormonal fluctuations settling down, many women experience an improvement in their mood during week 13. You might find yourself feeling more positive and upbeat as you adjust to the changes in your body and anticipate the next trimester of pregnancy.

Increased sex drive: Some expectant mums notice a heightened libido during the second trimester, which can be attributed to increased blood flow to the pelvic area. Embrace this newfound desire if you're feeling up to it, but always communicate with your partner and listen to your body.

Visible veins: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause the veins in your breasts, abdomen, and legs to become more prominent. Visible veins, especially in the breasts and abdomen, are a common symptom during this week of pregnancy.

Lower back pain: As your uterus expands and your body adjusts to accommodate your growing baby, you might start experience lower back pain. This discomfort is caused by the increased strain on your back muscles and ligaments. Here’s how to ease pregnancy aches and pains.

Nausea: While many find relief from morning sickness as they enter the second trimester, some may continue to experience occasional bouts of nausea. This is normal and can be attributed to various factors such as hormone fluctuations, sensitivity to certain smells, or an empty stomach.

Heartburn and/or indigestion: As your uterus expands, it can put pressure on your stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms like heartburn and indigestion. This discomfort is caused by stomach acid refluxing into the oesophagus and can be managed through dietary adjustments, eating smaller meals, and avoiding trigger foods. Here’s more on heartburn during pregnancy.

Remember to take care of yourself and speak to your GP or midwife for any concerns or questions about your symptoms during this exciting time!

If you've put off telling others about your good news, now is a great time. Sharing is caring! Encourage your partner/the father and other family members to get involved, but not beyond what you are comfortable with.

Developing a Budget

Develop a working budget for your maternity leave, one that includes the costs associated with your new little addition. Of course, your budget will be influenced by your individual situation, such as your income and expenses, two incomes versus only one, and all other factors that come into play. 

Some costs to consider when determining your budget include breastfeeding necessities, formula and bottles, nappies, and the bigger ticket items.

After childbirth, you will have a number of visits from the health visitor. If you decide to breastfeed, you may want to buy a breast pump, especially if you are returning to work at some point. If you decide to formula feed, you'll be buying formula regularly. If your new, little baby suffers from reflux or CMPA, they may require a special formula, which can cost more. To determine estimate costs for nappies, remember the average newborn goes through ten to twelve diaper changes a day. Of course, there are other costs to be considered, but these are the major players. To prepare, save when you can and practice for maternity leave by living on one salary and set any extra earnings aside.

Enjoy your sex drive. The spike in your libido can provide health benefits to you and your little one, such as helping to improve your sleep and mood and speeding up your postnatal recovery with tighter pelvic floor muscles.