Mom's development

Month 5

Feeling the baby move for the first time is called quickening – it makes the magic of pregnancy become very real. The attachment and bonding process is well underway. Remember that the kind of movements you feel will be gentle butterflies at first. As the baby grows, the movements will feel like stronger bumps, turns and kicks. During the course of a day, the baby will have very active periods alternating with quieter spells when the baby is resting.

It's normal to develop new moles or for existing moles to get bigger and darker. Sometimes this needs an evaluation by a dermatologist. Do not assume that any mole with a significant or rapidly changed appearance is “normal” or just due to the pregnancy. Moles are on the skin and easy to examine, so if you see changes – get it checked out.

Common skin changes in pregnancy

• darkening of the pigmentation on the inside of your upper thighs
• a splotchy darkening of parts of your face called melasma or “mask of pregnancy” – avoid the sun exposure to your face as it makes this condition worse.
• stretch marks
• spider veins
• inflamed palms
• itchy, dry skin
• pimples or breakouts