Your Baby's Development
The amniotic fluid that has cushioned and supported your baby in the uterus now serves another purpose. Your baby's intestines have developed enough that small amounts of sugars can be absorbed from the fluid he or she swallows and will be passed through the digestive system to the large bowel. Almost all of your baby's nourishment, however, still comes from you through the placenta.

Up until now your baby's liver and spleen have been responsible for the production of blood cells. (The fetal liver produces blood cells right up until the time of birth.) But now the bone marrow spaces are developed enough to contribute to blood cell formation as well.

Your Body
Is exercise safe during pregnancy? Exercise can be a great way to stay in shape during pregnancy and can even keep some symptoms, such as varicose veins, excessive weight gain, and backache, at a minimum. But pregnancy is not the time to start training for a triathlon - going slowly is the name of the game. Because ligaments become more relaxed during pregnancy, you're at higher risk for injury, so low or nonimpact exercise such as yoga, swimming, and walking are your best bets. Talk to your health care provider before beginning any exercise program while you're pregnant.