16-24 weeks
During this period your baby will grow from the size of an avocado to a small melon. You are now in the 2nd trimester of your pregnancy and you will likely have more energy and experience less discomforts than during your first trimester. Around 20 weeks your blood pressure will be at its lowest and some women can quickly feel dizzy. The most positive thing about this trimester is that you will start to feel the baby move. This can vary amongst pregnant women but most will have felt the baby kick at some point by their 24th week.
20 week ultrasound
The 20-week ultrasound, also known as the ‘anomaly scan’ (SEO). This ultrasound is mainly intended to check if your baby has an open skull or open back. This ultrasound is also able to detect other physical abnormalities. Because this is a specialist ultrasound, it will be performed by our highly experienced sonographer at Focus Midwifery Centre. You are able to book an appointment online.
During the 20-week ultrasound, your baby will undergo a thorough examination to check for birth abnormalities. Even if no abnormalities are detected, this does not guarantee a healthy baby because the ultrasound cannot detect all abnormalities. The goal is to detect any problems early so that a treatment plan can be devised where possible. Although the results may show serious abnormalities which cannot be treated and leaves you to choose between terminating your pregnancy or prepare for a possible still birth. It may be the case that your baby only has a minor defect but it is safer to give birth at the hospital so that a paediatrician can provide the appropriate care as soon as your baby is born. The 20 week ultrasound (SEO) can also detect soft markers. These usually do not affect the pregnancy.
The ultrasound is performed between 18-21 weeks, ideally between 19 and 20 weeks. If any abnormalities are detected, follow-up testing will be offered. The follow-up examination consists of an extensive ultrasound to take place at hospital. In some cases you will be given the option of amniocentesis or a blood test to obtain a clearer picture of the abnormality. Amniocentesis carries a small risk of a miscarriage (2 in 1000). It is your choice to have these tests, and what you decide to do with the results. The cost of the 20 week ultrasound is covered by your basic health insurance.
Breast or bottle feeding
DA variety of studies prove that breastfeeding is the best start in life for your baby. Breast milk contains exactly the right amount of nutrients that your baby needs and also contains anti bodies which protect your child from infections, among other things. Babies who have been breastfed are much less likely to suffer from allergies and often have a stronger immune system. Breastfeeding also has advantages for mothers: you are able to regain your previous weight more quickly and the risk of getting breast cancer is considerably smaller. If you want to breastfeed, it is recommended to learn more about breastfeeding while you are still pregnant. By attending a breastfeeding class, reading books or visiting websites about breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is a very natural thing, but not every mother takes to it easily. Of course we and your maternity nurse can give you guidance about this. It may also be beneficial to get advice from a lactation specialist during the maternity period, someone who specializes in breastfeeding and all things relevant. A consultation with a lactation specialist is usually covered by your (additional) health insurance. Successful breastfeeding takes time and dedication. Extra help and advice is a step in the right direction.
Classes
Many expectant parents choose to attend a pregnancy class in addition to our services. Our services provide you with all the necessary information about your pregnancy, the birth and the maternity period. Attending a pregnancy class can be beneficial in many ways, such as learning new information, encouraging physical exercise and / or relaxation techniques. For a list of available classes in Utrecht, please visit www.zwangerinutrecht.com Also consider an information evening about breastfeeding and a class especially for fathers!
Arrange maternity leave
During this period it is a good idea to start thinking about maternity leave and discuss this with your employer. You can start your leave between week 34 and week 36 of your pregnancy. If your job is physically demanding and/or requires a lot of travel time, we recommend that you start your maternity leave at 34 weeks. For all maternity leave relevant information, visit the appropriate government website. You are also entitled to maternity leave if you are self employed.
Whooping cough vaccination
It is your choice to be vaccinated against whooping cough around the 22nd week of your pregnancy. This vaccination is intended to protect your baby against whooping cough during the first weeks after birth. You can make an appointment for this whooping cough vaccination at your local Children’s Healthcare Centre JGZ.
