Baby’s Development
Up to now the skin of the foetus has hung in loose folds because there is not much fat. Fat depositing commenced in week 19 (17 weeks after conception) but it has been slow, starting from now it’ll happen rapidly. Right now the organs and bones of the foetus are visible through the skin, but once the fat settles in, it won’t be so. Blood vessels in the lungs are increasing and swelling to prepare for breathing and by now the baby would be quite used to loud sounds happening outside.
Changes in the Mother
You may notice some swelling in your feet and ankles. This is due to water retention. Don’t worry about it and certainly don’t reduce your water intake. Reduction of drinking water will only make the water retention problem worse. So relax, drink plenty of water and take part in relaxing exercises such as walking, swimming or yoga.
But if your ankles and feet swell up excessively do seek medical help since this may be a symptom of a dangerous illness known as Preeclampsia. Preeclampsia constricts your blood vessels. This causes blood pressure to rise while the volume of blood transported to your organs decreases, this can have very damaging and lasting effects on both you and your baby so don’t feel shy or nervous about seeking help when you need it.
On a less serious note, your belly button may have popped out and may show through your clothes like a little button now!