During the first few weeks of pregnancy, there is little that you visually see, although the physical sensations may start to arise.
As time goes by, however, the pregnancy begins to change different aspects of your body, in more ways than one.
During the first trimester, which lasts up to 3 months, the belly is still not visible. When the second trimester sets in, there is much more to expect. Below is info on what to expect at 5 months pregnant.
Lower Back Pains
At five months pregnant, the belly has grown, and you’re trying to adjust. Your walking position and how you carry out tasks changes.
That means that your center of gravity has shifted. Muscles begin working extra hard to support the extra weight.
Your back gets more weight on the receiving end, and this makes it to strain more. It struggles to carry the weight and at the same time cope with your new posture.
To relieve this pain, try exercises that help strengthen your muscles. Sit on chairs that help support your back. If your back is having severe pains, prop a pillow behind you to support it or visit a physician for check-ups.
Nasal Congestion
A runny nose, nosebleeds, and stuffy nose are common things to expect at five months of pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones dry the mucous membrane, which later results in clogging.
At night, you can run a humidifier immediately before sleep. Saline drops also help to relieve most of these congestions. This may happen, but not everyone experiences this during pregnancy.
Difficulty Sleeping
At five months, the bump is big enough to cause you problems at night. It becomes hard to find an ideal sleeping position.
When this happens, try to sleep on one side with a pillow in between your knees.
A warm soothing bath before bedtime can help you get to sleep quickly. Regular exercises like walking, prenatal yoga, and swimming also help in giving you a sound sleep cycle.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
These are contractions experienced later in the day after having an exercise or after engaging in sex. It feels like cramping in the abdomen or a mild tightening.
Normal Braxton Hicks contractions go away after changing positions or moving around. If they do not go away, consult your physician or midwife.
Swollen Feet
Fluid retention, weight gain, and pregnancy hormones (relaxin in particular) are the causes of these symptoms.
Relaxin loosens the joints in the feet and other muscles in the body as it begins to prepare for childbirth.
Putting the feet up helps to relieve this symptom. You can also use a cool foot bath regularly. A little massage can be a measure of self-care that goes a long way.
Dizziness
As your fetus grows, the blood circulation goes down. The brain begins to get a limited blood supply. Once this happens, you will feel dizzy most of the time.
This happens when you suddenly change positions or stand. From five months onwards, take things slow because of this feeling. Once you feel dizzy, avoid being on your feet too much.
Things to Note
By this month, the fetus is generally active and most of the organs have developed. Flips and kicks are more noticeable now.
It is in this month that the skin of your little one begins to produce lanugo and vernix. The baby can also sleep and wake up at regular intervals.
It is possible for the baby to be awakened by a loud external noise. This should not shock you, as it’s a good sign and means that the baby has developed senses.
Conclusion
Since each individual is genetically different, you may have a bigger belly at five months than the others. Be aware of these bodily changes and adjust to them accordingly.
