5 Months Pregnant: Pregnancy Month by Month
Each pregnant woman’s body changes in different ways at different times throughout a pregnancy. Still, your baby bump will likely be pretty visible by the time you’re five months pregnant, so this month, you’ll be adjusting to the physical changes as well as getting used to receiving unsolicited pregnancy advice from anyone and everyone.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at Five Months Pregnant
It's likely that you'll still have that second trimester energy boost, and many women say this is the most enjoyable phase of pregnancy. But it's also possible that you'll face some pesky symptoms of pregnancy in month five, such as:
Itchy skin
Stretch marks
Varicose veins
Spider veins
Shortness of breath
Slightly swollen hands and feet
Lower back pain
Bloating
Flatulence
Constipation
Heartburn
Increased appetite
Difficulty finding a comfortable position to sleep in
Keep in mind that these pregnancy symptoms are normal, and you may only experience some of them throughout this month.
Five Months Pregnant: Changes Inside and Out
Your Baby’s Development: Your baby is putting on weight, and her facial features are all in place. At this stage, she still has quite a bit of wiggle room, so you’ll be feeling your little one kicking, punching, and rolling around. These moves signal a healthy baby, so, although they might be annoying at times (especially at night while you’re trying to sleep), they’re definitely a good sign.
Changes to Your Body: There are many positives during this month of pregnancy, such as continuing to enjoy that energy boost. Many pregnant women will also experience a pregnancy "glow" and will look more radiant. Your belly continues to grow (triggering some of the pregnancy symptoms mentioned above), but it may not be so big yet that you can’t get around with relative ease. As your tummy grows, you might notice that your belly button pokes out. You might also notice some changes in the texture and growth of your nails.
Adjusting to Your Pregnancy Body
You're doing an important job by providing a safe home for your growing baby, but this doesn't mean you'll always feel fully comfortable with your new shape. During the second trimester, enjoy getting some comfortable and flattering maternity clothes, either at local stores or online.
You may wonder how to respond when you get advice, questions, and comments about your pregnancy from strangers and loved ones alike. One good strategy is to thank them, letting them know you'll think about what they've said, and leave it at that.
You may have already chosen to share your news with your boss and others at your workplace and begun maternity leave plans. At five months pregnant, it's worth starting to plan how you will hand over your responsibilities to your colleagues so that you're not leaving big, stressful jobs until the third trimester.
Fifth Month of Pregnancy Quick List
Sign up for prenatal classes: Many prenatal classes will start in the next month or two, so sign up to get as much support and information as you can.
Talk to your baby: Your baby is learning to recognize your voice and can hear better than before. Make a habit of talking, singing, or reading to your baby every day.
Know the signs of preterm labor: Now is the time to keep an eye out for the signs of preterm labor. Contact your doctor right away if you think you might be in preterm labor.
Use that energy boost: That second trimester surge in energy provides an opportunity to exercise, travel, prepare your home for your baby, and tie up any other loose ends.
Eat well: Your baby is growing rapidly at this point, and you might feel extra hungry. This is not the time to hold back on eating; instead, continue to eat a variety of healthy, nutritious foods.
Get comfortable: Explore comfortable ways to sleep, choose more comfortable shoes (especially if you’re experiencing swollen feet), find maternity wear that gives your growing body plenty of room to move and breathe, and choose maternity bras that support the changing shape of your growing breasts.
Sign up for even more pregnancy tips.
