Everything you need to know about week 19 of pregnancy

19th week of pregnancy (week 19)

Welcome to the 19th week of pregnancy – you have now reached the second half of the 5th month! During this phase, many expectant mothers consciously feel their baby’s movements for the first time. Whether it’s a gentle fluttering or a slight kick: it’s a special moment, which for many parents-to-be is their child’s first real “hello”.

There are also some outward changes: your baby bump is becoming rounder, your skin may be more sensitive, and a fine dark line might already be visible on your belly – the so-called linea nigra. In the 19th week of pregnancy, your baby continues to mature, with important developmental milestones ahead.

The 19th week of pregnancy at a glance

Your baby at 19 weeks pregnant:

• Your baby is now about 15–16 cm long (from head to rump) and weighs around 230–250 g.
• The skin is still thin and translucent, but the vernix continues to form to protect it.
• The sense organs are continuing to develop – especially hearing. Your baby can now even respond to your voice!
• Small movements with arms, legs, hands and feet become more frequent – thumb-sucking is also possible.
• The organ of balance in the inner ear matures, allowing your baby to develop an initial sense of "up" and "down."
  
  

Your body at 19 weeks pregnant:

• Your uterus now extends to just below your belly button.
• The growing baby bump can cause a slight pulling sensation in the groin – the round ligaments are stretching.
• Skin changes, increased sweating, and enhanced blood circulation are also typical accompanying symptoms at this stage.
• Your breasts are slowly preparing for breastfeeding; some women already notice colostrum.
  
  

Development of the baby in the 19th week of pregnancy

A lot is happening in your baby bump during week 19 of pregnancy: your baby’s facial features are becoming increasingly delicate, and the body now appears much more in proportion. Eyelids, ears, nose and lips are clearly recognisable. On the inside, the organs continue to mature – especially the brain, liver and kidneys are already working busily.

Your baby's skin is covered by vernix caseosa, which protects it from the amniotic fluid. In addition, the first fine lines are forming on the surface of the skin – like fingerprints, which are developing now.

Your baby continues to move actively: arms and legs are being stretched, the tiny hands grasp reflexively, and many babies discover their thumb as a comfort aid in week 19 of pregnancy.

The developing organ of balance is now helping your child to orientate itself better in the womb. At the same time, hearing is becoming more refined – your baby can now hear sounds from both inside and outside more clearly.

Your body in the 19th week of pregnancy

In the 19th week of pregnancy, you will become even more aware of the changes in your body. Your uterus continues to grow upwards and, for many pregnant women, now slightly presses against the stomach. This can lead to heartburn or shortness of breath – both are completely normal at this stage of pregnancy.

Your skin may become more sensitive – pigment changes such as dark spots on your face or the previously mentioned linea nigra on your abdomen may appear. Your breasts also continue to change: the nipples become darker, and colostrum (the first milk) may already start to leak.

The increasing weight can also lead to back pain. Pay special attention now to your posture, getting enough exercise, and taking time to relax. Mild calf cramps, feelings of tension or the familiar “pulling” sensation in your groin often occur due to the stretching of the ligaments – your body is working around the clock for your little miracle.

The pram you've always wanted.

Tips for week 19 of pregnancy

• 🍼 Consciously enjoy: If you consciously feel your baby for the first time now, take your time and enjoy the moment – it belongs to just the two of you.
• 💆‍♀️ Give your back a break: You can prevent back pain – with pregnancy exercises, yoga or a comfortable side sleeper pillow in bed.
• 🛍 Time to think about the initial essentials: You can slowly start planning your baby's first essentials – even if the big shopping spree can wait a little longer.
• 🩺 Don't forget preventive care: The next check-up is coming up soon – ideal for comparing ultrasound data, asking questions, and tracking your baby's growth.
  
  
  
  

The most frequently asked questions about the 19th week of pregnancy

What do I feel in the 19th week of pregnancy?

You might now consciously perceive your baby’s first movements – little legs, a twitch or gentle prods with their arms are typical.

How big is my baby in the 19th week of pregnancy?

At week 19 of pregnancy, your baby measures around 15–16 cm (crown to rump) and weighs about 230 g – comparable to a block of butter.

Can the gender be determined in the 19th week of pregnancy?

Yes! In many cases, the doctor can already determine via ultrasound whether it will be a girl or a boy – provided your baby is lying in a favourable position.

What can be seen on an ultrasound in the 19th week of pregnancy?

On the ultrasound, eyes, heart, muscles, and the growing vernix caseosa are now clearly visible – everything is developing just as it does in a little human.

What can my baby already do this week?

Your baby is beginning to develop senses such as smell and taste. It reacts to sounds, warmth, and even your voice – a first conscious contact with mum and dad.

How should I eat during the 19th week of pregnancy?

During this stage of pregnancy, pay attention to a balanced diet: fresh foods such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains or even yoghurt provide important nutrients for the life growing inside you.

Which symptoms are normal in the 19th week of pregnancy?

Typical symptoms can include back pain, a pulling sensation in the abdomen or circulatory problems. Let me know if anything seems unusual or if you feel unsure.

Should I already start preparing for the birth?

It’s never too early for an antenatal class – there you’ll get helpful tips for the birth, learn a lot about how it all works, and you and your partner can prepare together for the baby.

How does my body change during pregnancy?

The physical changes are now clearly noticeable: your uterus is growing, your skin is stretching – make sure to consciously take time to rest, relax, and avoid stress.

When is the next examination?

The second major examination usually takes place between the 19th and 22nd week. Among other things, an ultrasound is used to check whether your baby is developing well – and you will receive new data about its growth.

The dream buggy you always wanted.

Back to the previous week of pregnancy.

Continue to the next week of pregnancy.