Below is more information about the changes and milestones that you should expect when you are five months pregnant.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at Five Months
At five months, you are now in the second semester of your pregnancy which to most women is the most enjoyable. At this time, some of the symptoms that you had during early pregnancy such as morning sickness have probably subsided. Additionally, your belly is now more grown though it is not a nuisance yet. You can see ideas of maternity wear here. Other symptoms that you will experience at five months are such as:
- Stretch marks
- Shortness of breath
- Lower back pain
- Constipation
- Increased appetite
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Difficulty finding a good position to sleep in
- Back and leg cramps
- Skin changes whereby you may have stretch marks or get darker at some places on your skin
- Heartburn and indigestion since as the uterus grows, it puts pressure on the digestive system
Read more on changes that happen during pregnancy here
Baby Development at Five Months
Five months’ pregnant spans from week 17-20 of your pregnancy. During this time, your baby develops from the size of a lemon which they are at four months to the size of a bell pepper. The weekly development for the baby at five months are:
Week 18
Your baby is about 5.5-6 inches long (14-15cm) and weighs 198 grams. It’s now about the size of a large tomato
Though you may not feel it yet, your baby is busy making movement with his arms and legs
Week 19
Your baby is about the size of a small mango. It measures about 6.0 inches long and weighs about 240grams.
The arms and legs are now proportional to each other and hair follicles are sprouting from the scalp. Kidneys are producing urine now.
Week 20
Your baby measures around 6.5 inches and is about the size of a banana.
Weighing between 255- 310 grams, you are halfway through your pregnancy and you can now lightly feel its movements. (Quickening)
Week 21
Looking somewhat like a carrot, your baby measures 10.5 inches long and weighs about 360 grams
A fine downy hair and a greasy material covers the body to help protect the skin. The flutters are now fully fledged kicks that you cannot miss.
Week 22
Your baby now looks more like a newborn. It measures 11 inches and weighs almost half a kg, as heavy as a football. Its eyelids, eyebrows and lips are now more distinct.
Pregnancy Diet for The Fifth Month
Having the right quality and quantity of food is essential for your health and that of the baby. Keep off spicy and deep-fried foods that may aggravate heartburn. Remember, too much caffeine at this time also puts you at risk of a miscarriage.
See how your baby will be developing at six months
Disclaimers:
Please note that development differs from one child to another.
Content intended for educational purposes only, and not a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
Be careful when using any products mentioned on this website. We hold no regulations for such products or their providers.
Last reviewed March 2019
Sources: pampers, plannedparenthood, momjunction, motherandbaby, babycenter, babycenter
