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Fifth Month: |
| Holly Alley, MS, RD, LD Nutrition Specialist, Department of Food and Nutrition and Don Bower, DPA, CFCS Associate Professor and Human Development Specialist, Department of Child and Family Development |
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By your fifth month it is probably obvious that you are pregnant. Both friends and strangers may be giving you a lot of attention. You may feel marked as “a pregnant woman” when people look at your growing middle first. This is a natural reaction since people are often fascinated by the miracle of birth. You may find women to be especially supportive at this time. Current mothers remember the excitement and uncertainty of having their own children. Childless women like to learn from your experiences. Handling other people’s reactions at work or school may be a difficult task. You may like being recognized as a special person at times, but at other times you may want to be yourself, not mama. Keep in mind that many generations of women were faced with the same challenge. You are a unique individual with memorable experiences. And soon you will have a baby who is one of a kind.
Childbirth education classes teach the parents-to-be what to expect. Ask your doctor or nurse about your options. Listening to other parents’ experiences may also be beneficial. Be sure to plan well in advance of your due date.
Breastfeeding is recommended by health professionals. It decreases the baby’s chance of health problems such as infectious diseases, food allergies, and chronic diseases. Much of this protection comes from the early milk (colostrum) which contains disease fighting properties. Mortality rates are lower among breastfed infants than those who are formula fed. Breastfeeding helps the mother’s uterus (womb) return to pre-pregnancy size faster. If you don’t breastfeed, use iron-fortified formula. The biggest advantage to bottle feeding is that it can be done by other people. The “best” way to feed your baby is the way that feels right for you. If this is your first baby and you are unsure what feeding method is best for you, try breastfeeding. If it doesn’t suit you, it’s easy to switch to bottle feeding later.
Fathers often have a preference based on whether or not they have been circumcised. Discuss it with your doctor if you are unsure. Circumcision, if chosen, is usually done before the baby leaves the hospital.
Make sure you choose someone you feel comfortable with. If possible, watch the doctor with other children. Does the doctor have a pleasant personality and willingness to answer questions? Are the children and parents relaxed and satisfied with the service? Ask about office routine and policies for night/weekend care. Your child’s health and growth is the responsibility of both you and your doctor. Take the time to decide who your baby’s doctor will be.
Your County Extension Service has other free information to help you stay well. Just call us with your questions.
Primary author: Holly Alley, MS, RD, LD,
Reprinted with permission from the University of Georgia.
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