Mum
Keep regular appointments with your LMC so that they can track your baby’s growth and make sure everything is progressing smoothly. As the baby sprouts, your body will change – and not only in size. Your abdomen may develop stretch marks. Varicose veins may appear on your legs. In the good news department, your hair is probably thicker and glossier than usual, your nails are growing faster and harder, your skin has never looked better.
Dad
Remember that playlist you created around Week 13? The baby can hear it now – at least that’s what science tells us. You can either place the iPod directly on the bump, or you can get a gadget that can do pretty much the same job, only in more style.
Baby
You are as big as a papaya. You can now sense your mum’s movements more clearly, and the gentle rocking usually sends you to sleep. You wake up when she lies down for a nap (this is preparing her for years to come).
Things to keep in mind
- If the weather permits, try to spend some time in the sunshine. A little sunlight is healthy for you and your baby, and being outdoors with fresh air is wonderful for your mental health and wellbeing.
- Try to stay cool and hydrated, eat small but nutritious meals throughout the day, and get plenty of sleep.
- Start babyproofing your home.
Photos in the bumpandbaby.co.nz/week-by-week/ are by Lenart Nilsson. Lenart's series was bought to fame when his photo, considered the greatest photo of the 20th century, appeared on the cover of Life magazine in 1965. “Everyone interprets images differently, depending on their social, cultural and religious background. In the digital era, I believe it is more important than ever to go back and take a look inside ourselves. What better way of doing that than with these photos?” ~ Jane Stene, art gallery director and curator of Lenart's definitive black and white series, told the The Guardian in 2019. It is Lenart Nilsson's wish that his images are never used for political debate about pro-life.
