Throughout your pregnancy, each month is a special period where you witness your baby’s rapid development and encounter new emotions. Your baby shows new developments each month, allowing you to feel these changes. As your baby grows day by day, it causes both physical and emotional changes in you.
These changes may manifest differently in every woman; however, most women experience similar changes. Your body, which you share with your baby, offers you a new lifestyle along with these changes. By the time you reach your fourth month, you have completed the first trimester and stepped into the second trimester.
If you are worried because “I have been married for four months and cannot get pregnant,” it might be helpful to learn about pregnancy techniques and consult with your doctor.
Differences can be observed between the symptoms of three-month and four-month pregnancies. The symptoms experienced during these periods provide important clues about the progression of your pregnancy.
What are the Symptoms of 4 Months Pregnancy?
In the four-month period of your pregnancy, some of the symptoms you experienced during the first three months may decrease. Notably, morning nausea can lessen this month. This reduction in symptoms allows you to focus more on your baby and feel the excitement of starting baby shopping. Here are some symptoms observed in the fourth month:
- Weight Gain: It’s normal to gain weight as the pregnancy progresses.
- Growth in the Abdomen and Breast Area: This growth can also bring about itchiness.
- Difficulty Breathing: The growth of the baby can increase pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult.
- Increased Appetite: Hormonal changes can lead to a constant desire to eat.
- Skin Changes: Changes in skin tone may be observed.
- Heartburn and Indigestion: These are common due to pressure on the digestive system.
- Constipation: Can occur due to a slowdown in the digestive system.
- Increase in Energy Levels: While the state of depression may decrease, energy levels can increase.
- Varicose Veins: Changes in blood circulation can lead to the formation of varicose veins.
- Skin Changes: Hormonal changes can cause fluctuations in skin tone.
Pains and Cramping: In the fourth month, stretching of the ligaments around the uterus due to its growth can cause pelvic pain. Additionally, abdominal pain can occur due to changes in the uterine ligaments and may require a doctor’s attention if the pain is severe. Vaginal pain can result from the stretching of uterine muscles and may cause a stabbing sensation in the vagina.
Sexual Intercourse and Pregnancy: Regarding the question, “Can you have sexual intercourse during the fourth month of pregnancy?” if there are no abnormal conditions and doctor’s approval is obtained, sexual intercourse can safely continue.
What is a 4-Month-Old Baby Like?
At four months old, babies begin to take on a tiny human form, and during this period you can begin to feel your baby for the first time. While second-time mothers may experience this feeling earlier, first-time mothers usually experience this at the age of four months. Making your baby’s presence felt with his or her tiny kicks will lead to unforgettable moments. “What does a 4 month old baby do?” If you are wondering, here are some important developments that your baby can make during this period:
- Sound Perception : Your baby can hear sounds coming from outside and react to these sounds.
- Facial Development : Your baby’s facial features become more prominent.
- Fingerprint Development : Your baby’s fingerprints develop during this period and he may start sucking his thumb.
- Facial Expressions : May display expressions such as frowning, smiling, or surprise.
- Urine Production : Kidneys start working and start producing urine.
- Light Detection : Can see bright lights reflected from the mother’s womb.
- Eye Movements : The eyes become settled and can move actively.
- Liver and Pancreas : The liver begins to produce bile and the pancreas begins to secrete digestive enzymes.
This monthly period is also a suitable time for gender prediction . Your baby’s gender is usually confirmed around the fifth month of pregnancy, but a preliminary estimate can be made with four-month ultrasound images.
Also, “How many weeks is a 4-month pregnancy?” The question is frequently asked. Four months of pregnancy covers the 14th to 17th weeks . During this period, your pregnancy belly begins to visibly grow along with the growth of your baby.
Expected Weight Gain During 4 Months Pregnancy
Due to nausea and loss of appetite experienced in the first three months of pregnancy , weight gain is usually limited during this period. However, as you enter the fourth month, the desire to eat increases, which encourages weight gain. During this period, it is important to consume adequate and healthy foods to keep up with your baby’s rapid growth. “How much weight should be gained in 4 months of pregnancy?” The general answer to the question can be given that an average of 1.5 kilos can be gained.
Things to Consider During Four Months Pregnancy
The fourth month of pregnancy is a critical period for the baby’s development. During this period, it is recommended to avoid heavy lifting . Instead, it will be beneficial to do light exercises recommended by your doctor. It is also important to pay attention to healthy nutrition and correct sleeping positions during this period. It is recommended that every pregnant woman follow these recommendations to provide the best care for herself and her baby.
Optimal Nutrition Guide in the Fourth Month of Pregnancy
Eating healthy during the fourth month of pregnancy is critical for the health of both the mother and the developing baby. The nutrients the mother consumes directly affect the growth and development of the baby. Here is the recommended nutrition list to follow during the 4-month pregnancy period :
- Folic Acid : Folic acid, which plays a very important role during pregnancy, is necessary for the healthy development of the baby’s nervous system. Add foods such as green leafy vegetables , citrus fruits and lentils to your diet.
- Iron : Iron, which is necessary for the baby’s healthy blood cell development, can be provided from foods such as red meat , legumes and green leafy vegetables .
- Vitamin B12 : Vitamin B12, which is critical for nervous system and brain health, can be obtained from animal sources such as meat , fish and dairy products .
- Zinc : Zinc, which is important for the immune system and cell growth, is also found in meat , seafood and legumes .
- Iodine : Iodine, which is vital for the baby’s brain development, can be obtained from sea creatures and iodized salt .
- Vitamin B6 : Vitamin B6, which supports hormone balance and the health of red blood cells, is also found in meat products , grains and legumes .
- Vitamin A : Vitamin A, required for eye health and the immune system, can be obtained from foods such as liver , carrots and spinach .
- Vitamin C : Vitamin C, which is important for skin health and iron absorption, is high in foods such as tomatoes , potatoes and rose hips .
These foods will help meet the nutrients both you and your baby need in the fourth month of your pregnancy. You can support the healthy development of your baby by including these suggestions in your diet.
4 Months Pregnancy: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
The fourth month of pregnancy is generally considered the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy and is a period in which many important developments occur. During this time, mothers may ask many questions about the changes occurring in their bodies and their babies. Here are some frequently asked questions and expert answers about four months of pregnancy:
How much does my baby grow this month?
In the four months of pregnancy, the baby reaches a length of approximately 13-15 cm and its weight is around 140 grams on average. Your baby’s skeleton begins to change from cartilage to bones, making it more clearly visible on ultrasound images.
What are the common health problems I may encounter during four months of pregnancy?
Some common health problems during four months of pregnancy include headaches, lower back pain, and mild edema. Additionally, mood swings and skin changes may be observed due to hormonal changes. These are considered normal, but if you experience severe or worrying symptoms you should consult your doctor.
Is sexual intercourse safe during four months of pregnancy ?
In most cases, sexual intercourse is safe during an uncomplicated pregnancy. However, since each individual’s situation is different, it is important to talk to your doctor to get the most accurate information and guidance on this subject.
What kind of tests should be done at this stage of pregnancy?
Second trimester screening tests are usually performed at four months of pregnancy. These tests may include detailed ultrasound and triple or quad scanning tests. These tests are important to check the baby’s development and possible genetic or structural abnormalities.
What are the recommendations for nutrition during four months of pregnancy?
A healthy and balanced diet is important during this period of pregnancy. Care should be taken to consume foods rich in iron, calcium, protein, folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also very important to consume adequate amounts of water.
Is it safe for me to exercise during pregnancy?
Yes, exercising during an uncomplicated pregnancy is beneficial for the health of both the mother and the baby. However, you should consult your doctor to find out which exercises are appropriate and for how long they should be done.
What should I pay attention to when traveling?
Travel is generally safe during this period of pregnancy, but if you’ll be sitting for long periods of time, try to move occasionally to increase your circulation. It’s also a good idea to check your health insurance coverage and medical facilities at your destination before traveling.
How does alcohol and smoking affect this period of pregnancy?
Alcohol and smoking are factors that should definitely be avoided during pregnancy. These substances can have serious adverse effects on the baby’s development and lead to various health problems.