19 Weeks Pregnant: Vernix, First Kicks & Easing Back Pain

19 Weeks Pregnant: Vernix, First Kicks & Easing Back Pain

At 19 weeks pregnant, you're almost halfway there. Your baby is about the size of a mango and is now covered in vernix, a creamy coating that protects their skin. Their senses are developing fast, and you may feel their first kicks any day now.

Baby's size
About the size of a mango (around 15cm, 240g)
Big development
A protective coating of vernix, and senses developing
Common symptoms
Back pain, a blocked nose, constipation and trouble sleeping
This week
Your morphology scan, if you haven't had it yet

What's happening this week

Your baby is growing steadily, and the top of your uterus is now close to your belly button.

Vernix

A protective coat

A white, creamy coating called vernix now covers your baby's skin. Made of natural oils and skin cells, it protects their skin from the amniotic fluid.

Senses

Tuning in

Areas of the brain for sight, smell, taste, hearing and touch are developing. Your baby can hear your heartbeat and tummy sounds, and may soon hear your voice.

Hair and prints

Unique details

Hair is growing on your baby's head, along with eyebrows and eyelashes. Their unique fingerprints and footprints are forming too.

Feeling those first kicks

Most people feel their baby move between 18 and 22 weeks. At first, movements can feel like flutters, bubbles or muscle twitches, so they're easy to mistake for wind. You might feel them earlier if you've been pregnant before, and later if it's your first baby or your placenta is at the front of your uterus, where it cushions the kicks.

Try not to compare yourself with others. If you haven't felt any movement by 24 weeks, talk to your doctor or midwife. Here's how movements change as your baby grows.

Your mid-pregnancy scan

If you haven't had your morphology scan yet, it's usually done between 18 and 20 weeks. It's a detailed look at your baby's growth and organs, the placenta and the amniotic fluid. Here's what the morphology scan checks and what to expect.

Symptoms at 19 weeks pregnant

Many second trimester symptoms continue for a while, so it helps to find ways to manage them:

  • Back pain. The hormone relaxin softens your ligaments and joints, and your growing bump adds strain. See the tips below.
  • A blocked nose and nosebleeds. Extra blood flow and hormones make the lining of your nose swell. A saline spray and humidifier can help.
  • Constipation and haemorrhoids. Aim for around 28 g of fibre a day from wholegrains, fruit, vegetables and legumes, drink plenty of water and stay active.
  • Trouble sleeping. Discomfort, a busy mind and trips to the toilet can all disrupt your sleep. See the tips below.
  • Restless legs. An uncomfortable urge to move your legs, usually in the evening. Stretching and gentle exercise help, and ask your doctor about checking your iron.

Call your doctor, midwife or hospital straight away if you have sudden swelling, a severe headache, blurred vision or pain under your ribs. Go to your nearest emergency department if you have bleeding, strong pain or a gush of fluid from your vagina.

Easing pregnancy back pain

Do

  • Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting
  • Wear flat, supportive shoes
  • Split shopping between two bags to balance the load
  • Support your lower back with a cushion when sitting
  • Stay active with gentle exercise, like swimming or pregnancy yoga
  • See a women's health physio if pain continues

Try to avoid

  • Lifting anything heavy
  • High heels
  • Twisting while lifting or carrying
  • Standing or sitting in one position for long periods
  • A mattress that's too soft to support you

Sleeping better

Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night, and you may need a bit more while you're pregnant. If you're struggling to drift off, try these tips.

Before bed
Avoid rich or spicy food late in the evening to prevent heartburn, cut back on drinks in the hour or two before bed, and put screens away. Keep daytime naps short.
In bed
Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and another under your bump. A pregnancy pillow can make it easier to get comfy.
Looking ahead
From 28 weeks, it's recommended that you go to sleep on your side, as this lowers the risk of stillbirth. Getting used to side sleeping now makes the switch easier.Here's more on sleeping comfortably in pregnancy

Enjoy this stage

With more energy and a bump that isn't too heavy yet, this is a great time for some fun. Plan a night out, a day trip or a babymoon, and start thinking about what you'll need before your baby arrives. Our pregnancy checklist and sleep list make it easy to plan ahead.

Your to-do list for week 19

Helpful for this stage

The pregnancy listWhat you'll need to feel comfortableSee the list Pregnancy pillowsSupport for your back and bumpShop pillows Pregnancy and birth booksReading for the months aheadShop books

Week 19 FAQs

What is vernix?

Vernix is a white, creamy coating that covers your baby's skin in the uterus. It's made of natural oils, skin cells and water, and it protects your baby's delicate skin from the amniotic fluid. Some babies are still covered in it at birth, especially if they're born early.

When should I worry if I can't feel my baby move?

Many people feel their baby move between 18 and 22 weeks, but it can be later in a first pregnancy or with a placenta at the front. If you haven't felt any movement by 24 weeks, talk to your doctor or midwife. Once you know your baby's pattern, contact your hospital straight away if movements slow down or change.

Can I see a physio for back pain in pregnancy?

Yes. A women's health physiotherapist can assess your pain and show you safe exercises, stretches and support options. It's a good idea to see one if your pain is ongoing or affecting your daily life.

How much sleep do I need when pregnant?

Most adults need 7 to 9 hours a night, and you may need a little more while you're pregnant. Short rests or naps during the day can help if your sleep is broken.

What helps restless legs in pregnancy?

Stretching your legs, gentle exercise during the day, a warm bath and massage can help. Low iron can make restless legs worse, so ask your doctor about checking your iron levels.

This article is general information and isn't a substitute for advice from your doctor or midwife.

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