You are 16 Weeks Exactly Pregnant

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16 Weeks Exactly

168 days to go...

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ultrasound of human fetus at 16 weeks exactly

Your baby today

As your baby's skin starts to become more waterproof, the amniotic fluid is increasingly made from urine produced by your baby's kidneys and bladder. This urine does not contain waste products, since these are transported across the placenta.

It's natural that your partner will want to protect you and his baby, but you may need to help him get the balance right.

Is your partner worried about you having a sip of wine or eating a tad too much chocolate, or is he constantly checking that you're getting enough rest? You may find that your partner becomes very protective of you and his baby and while some women enjoy the attention, others find it irritating. If it bothers you, ask your partner why he feels the need to be so protective. If you can understand his feelings and concerns, it can help. Take the time to explain to him how you feel, and if everything is going well and you're feeling great, let him know. Explain that pregnancy is not an illness and is a natural process, and reassure him that you're being well looked after by the doctor. For further reassurance, you could get him some reading material and involve him by inviting him along to a prenatal appointment. He may have particular questions he wants to ask the doctor.

Strengthening your legs

A strong and toned lower body can be achieved by doing the exercises shown below. Strengthening these muscles will make day-to-day tasks, such as walking and climbing the stairs, a lot easier as your baby grows. Strengthening your leg muscles can also help prepare you for labor positions, such as squatting.

As A Matter Of Fact

Dads-to-be tend to have more vivid dreams than usual.

Pending fatherhood can make a man think about his own background and roots, and trigger dreams of parents and grandparents. As he becomes more protective and nurturing, he may even dream that he's pregnant.

pregnancy day by day information book cover

Pregnancy Day by Day

By Consultant Editor, Paula Amato, MD

Original source: Pregnancy Day by Day.

Copyright © 2008 Dorling Kindersley Limited.

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