Here's your week 17 update from the SMA® Baby Club. This week we deal with a classic worry of mothers-to-be: what happens if you fall ill.
You and your baby
Your baby at 17 weeks
Your baby is busy growing 'tact corpuscles' around this time. These are receptors in the skin that'll allow them to feel things when they finally enter the world. To help with this, a clever nerve-conducting sheath is growing over the spine.
You at 17 weeks
For some women, this is when the bump really starts to make itself visible. Ante-natal exercises, such as pregnancy yoga and swimming, can give your body support as it goes through these changes. Remember to always let fitness class instructors know you are pregnant.
It's important to get the right balance of fats - too much can make you put on weight, which is the last thing you need! Use non-stick pans without oil to help keep excess fat down, and steam or grill food. Do keep up essential fatty acids - make salad dressings, for example, with vegetable oils.
Don't worry: routine sniffles or tummy aches won't harm your baby. But do inform your doctor about any other illnesses to make sure you get the right medication. Not all painkillers are suitable for you, so also talk to your GP or pharmacist before using any.
Get some expert help
Remember our Careline team is always on hand to help. You can talk to our expert mums about what you should eat or anything else that's on your mind. Get in touch 24/7 using our live chat, by phone or by email.
