The tenth week of pregnancy
The pregnancy is a special and exciting time filled with emotions, physical changes, and anticipation. For expectant mothers, this period often feels like an emotional rollercoaster, where happiness, excitement, and anxiety mix. In the first trimester, the body undergoes numerous changes that affect not only the mothers but also the development of the fetus. As the pregnancy progresses, the experiences and feelings of expectant mothers continuously evolve. Alongside all this, various tests and medical recommendations related to pregnancy also play an important role in maintaining future health.
In the coming weeks, expectant mothers will become more familiar with their body’s reactions and prepare for the baby’s development to progress steadily. This stage of pregnancy is particularly noteworthy, as it is crucial for mothers to maintain not only their physical but also their mental health. It is worth paying conscious attention to the body’s signals and possible symptoms to best support the developing life during pregnancy.
What happens to the mother in the 10th week?
In the 10th week of pregnancy, mothers struggle with feelings of fatigue and exhaustion, which can be explained by the increase in blood volume. The body produces more blood to adequately supply the baby, but this can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and blood sugar levels, causing daytime drowsiness. Additionally, hormonal changes, particularly the rise in hCG and progesterone levels, can contribute to feelings of fatigue. Progesterone can cause not only daytime drowsiness but also nighttime insomnia. Disruptions in the sleep cycle, such as frequent nighttime urination, also affect the quality of REM sleep, altering the intensity of dream experiences.
If the mother feels that she cannot completely empty her bladder, it is important to consult a doctor. Due to the growth of the uterus, it can become compressed between the pelvic bones and the bladder, causing urinary retention. This issue usually resolves after the 12th week, but it is advisable to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.
What happens to the baby in the 10th week?
By the 10th week of pregnancy, the fetus has already undergone significant development. The development of the baby’s brain, liver, kidneys, and intestines began during the embryonic stage, and their functions are now starting. The fetus is approximately 3 cm long, with half of that being the size of the head. The forehead is disproportionately large, which can be explained by the growing brain’s space requirements. This week, nail growth begins in the baby’s fingers and toes, and the palate also closes. It is important to note that congenital abnormalities can no longer develop after the 10th week, which is reassuring news for expectant mothers.
Medical examinations are also recommended to monitor the fetus’s health. The doctor may offer screening tests that measure the likelihood of birth defects. Diagnostic tests are the most reliable methods for screening abnormalities, and they are particularly recommended if the mother is over 35 years old or if she experienced a genetic disorder in a previous pregnancy. The procedure is conducted in the form of a simple blood test that can detect fetal DNA in the mother’s body.
Special precautions in the 10th week
Announcing the news of pregnancy can be exciting yet a challenging decision for many expectant mothers. It was once believed that it is advisable to wait until the end of the first trimester when the risk of miscarriage decreases. However, the ideal time to announce the news is when the mother feels ready to do so. Some share the news with close ones from the very beginning, while others prefer to wait, considering their own experiences.
This week, it is worth paying special attention to reducing fatigue. Expectant mothers are advised to establish a calm evening routine that helps with relaxation. It is advisable to have dinner at least two hours before bedtime to avoid digestive issues. Drinking caffeine-free tea in the evening is also recommended, while the use of screens before sleep should be avoided as they inhibit melatonin production, which is necessary for facilitating rest.
It is particularly important for expectant mothers to continuously communicate their feelings and concerns with their partners, especially regarding the announcement of the pregnancy. Open and honest conversations strengthen the relationship and aid in making joint decisions.
It is good to know that continuing to take prenatal vitamins is essential, just as proper hydration is important, which means consuming 8-12 glasses of water daily. Expectant mothers may also find it beneficial to acquire a pregnancy pillow that supports the body and aids in relaxation during pregnancy.
