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At 16 weeks gestation, the fetus will make slight respiratory movements. The swallowing reflex is present and meconium, the baby’s first stool, is present in the intestines. Heart sounds may be loud enough by the end of the fourth month to be heard by the doctor with a stethoscope. The skin is thickening into various layers, and eyebrows and eyelashes are present. The fetus may start to suck his or her thumb. He or she is now about six inches long and weighs four to six ounces. Sometimes faint movements, like a flutter of butterfly wings, can be felt by the mother. But many obstetricians and gynecologists are firm believers in prenatal care. Prenatal care has been shown to improve both mom and baby’s outcomes. While it is not always the case, studies prove that it can make a difference. When it comes to medical care and pregnancy, the earlier you start getting help, the better off you and your baby will be. A Developmental Deal A woman should make an appointment as soon as she discovers she’s pregnant so that she can schedule her prenatal checkups, usually on a monthly basis, and begin to change lifestyle habits that could bring harm to the fetus. It is recommended that new mothers eat a well-balanced diet, which includes a vitamin supplement that contains folic acid; a new mom’s daily intake of folic acid should be at least 1,000 mg. Because everything a woman takes into her body, whether through her environment or diet, affects the developing baby, pregnant women should take certain precautions: - Drink plenty of fluids. - Wear gloves when using cleaning products. - Be cautious about how many times you have your nails done because repeated exposure to acetone vapors can be harmful. - Don’t consume alcoholic beverages. Alcohol consumption is linked to birth defects. - Don’t smoke. The negative effects of tobacco on an unborn fetus are well-documented. - Limit your caffeine intake. Caffeine has been shown to increase the chance of miscarriage. Get Fit and Happy Happy one day, sad the next and then happy again, pregnant women experience a roller-coaster ride of emotions. One way to deal with the blues and emotional ups and downs is exercise. Exercise also helps prepare women for the rigors of childbirth. A woman can’t be too fit for the workout she will endure when she goes into labor. Doctors suggest women engage in aerobic activity that increases the heart rate to between 120 and 140 beats per minute for at least 20 minutes, three days a week. Using a treadmill or stationary bike are ideal methods for enhancing cardiovascular fitness during pregnancy. He advises against inline skating or bicycling. (Always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program when you are pregnant.) It’s normal to be a little anxious when you discover you are expecting. Remember, you can help your delivery be as safe and healthy as possible by following a prenatal plan of action.