Week 13 of pregnancy

Your baby has now reached 8 cm and weighs 28 grams. Your baby's head makes up half of the total size. The placenta is starting to develop.

The digestive system goes through many changes and moves fully into the baby's abdominal wall. Bone tissue has developed into tiny bones in the arms and legs.

Also developing this week: your baby's vocal cords (the first step towards saying, "I love you, Mummy!"). Because sound can't travel through your uterus, you won't be able to hear any sounds or cries, but you can bet those vocal cords will get a good workout as soon as your little darling is born.

Your baby is also moving and has certain reflexes; it's just that you can't feel them yet.

So you have made it through the first trimester of pregnancy. You are starting to feel better as you move into the second trimester. This is the smooth-sailing trimester.

Morning sickness symptoms gradually ease, and you enjoy your food more. Many mums feel full of energy.

Some mums notice more vaginal discharge at this stage. This discharge is usually clear or slightly cloudy, odourless or with a mild smell. When tested, it often contains many white blood cells. This is a normal physiological change in pregnancy. It is caused by rising oestrogen levels and increased blood flow to the pelvic area. Never douche, as it can upset the balance of bacteria and cause vaginal infections that may affect your pregnancy.

Pregnancy symptoms this week: less tiredness, bigger appetite. Heartburn and indigestion are still around.

Eat foods rich in calcium and iron, and stay away from people with colds or infections. Eat plenty of fibre. You should also do gentle, moderate physical activity.

If the discharge bothers you, wash the intimate area regularly, wear daily panty liners and choose underwear made of comfortable material.