What's happening in week 19 of your pregnancy?

Your baby now measures about 15 cm in length and weighs 226 g.

Your baby is developing a layer of brown fat, which will provide warmth to their tiny body after they are born.

Your baby now has a protective coating called Vernix caseosa. It protects your baby's skin from any scratches or wrinkling from exposure to the amniotic fluid around him.

How is your baby's brain developing?

Your baby is moving around a lot more because their brain neurons are making connections to their muscles. You may be feeling those little acrobatics inside you.

What pregnancy symptoms might you experience this week?

Heartburn occurs as hormonal changes and your bigger baby bump in the second trimester makes it more likely for stomach acid to flow upwards and create a burning sensation in your throat and mouth.

Alleviate heartburn and make your pregnancy more comfortable with these tips:

Avoid foods that trigger heartburn

Stay away from acidic, spicy or fried foods, as well as carbonated or caffeinated beverages.

Eat small and frequent meals throughout the day

Try not to lie down but sit upright immediately after meals.

Mom's tip of the week

If you need to switch positions to sit up, move gently and try to keep your knees together. As your uterus grows, the round ligaments supporting the uterus are stretched further. This can lead to sharp pain in your lower abdominal muscles and pelvis, so try to avoid sudden movements that trigger the ache.