What to (Really) Expect When You're 4 Months Pregnant

Your Body At 4 Months Pregnant

At four months pregnant, you’re finally starting to look like you’re expecting and didn’t just polish off too many fish tacos. You’re officially in your second trimester, your energy is coming back and the morning sickness of your early pregnancy is on its way out. Your hair is full and shining and you’re comfortable sharing the news. Welcome to the best part of your pregnancy; if you’re ever going to radiate that pregnancy glow, this is it.

Here are some symptoms and wellness checkups to keep in mind.

Your Energy and Appetite Are Back!

Now that you’ve entered your second trimester (hooray!), your fatigue will likely dissipate and your energy will make a welcome return. It’s the perfect time to start shopping for your little one’s nursery, or even to take a “babymoon” with your partner if you’d like to celebrate with one last trip before your lives change dramatically (in a good way, of course!).

Month four of pregnancy is sounding pretty good, eh? Most women don’t experience nausea at this point, so you can expect your appetite to mostly return to normal. But while the nausea is gone, the heartburn has moved in and is setting up shop for the rest of your pregnancy. Sorry, Mama.

Many women officially have a baby bump by the end of month four of pregnancy. But don’t panic if you don’t — every woman’s body is different, so if you’re not showing, it’s not a sign that anything is amiss.

Your Baby at 4 Months Pregnant

The Eyes Are Working

At four months pregnant, your baby’s facial muscles have developed enough that their eyes are working and they can squint and even make side-to-side movements. Although their eyelids are still sealed, they can also perceive light at this point.

Your Baby Can Hear Your Voice

Because tiny bones in the fetus’s ear have developed, they can actually hear your voice by the end of month four. Whether or not you can carry a tune, it’s not a bad idea to sing to your baby — studies have shown that babies who hear a song in the womb actually recognize it when it’s sung to them after their birth.

They’re Working On Certain Movements

Although you still won’t feel any of your baby’s movements until next month, they are moving around in your womb. For example, it’s common for babies to flex their arms and legs and put their hands into fists at month four. It won’t be long before you feel that first kick!

Your Symptoms and Health at 4 Months Pregnant

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks tend to develop during month four of pregnancy. They are typically brown, reddish, or purplish streaks and you’ll find them on your thighs, breasts, buttocks, and belly. They’re the result of your skin stretching during pregnancy (hence the name) and, although they can’t be prevented, they tend to fade after you give birth.

Pain During Urination

At four months pregnant, you’re at an increased risk for urinary tract infections. This is because your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder, making it harder to completely empty it when you urinate. If you notice pain or burning during urination, contact your doctor — if a UTI goes untreated, it can develop into a more serious health issue such as a kidney infection.

You Have Food Cravings

Those pregnancy food cravings typically kick in during month four so feel free to indulge in your cravings. Just make sure you’re still following a healthy pregnancy diet (as discussed with your provider) and getting in all the necessary nutrients to keep yourself and your little one healthy.

Sensitive Gums And Teeth

Pregnancy hormones can also make you susceptible to gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. The most common symptoms are sensitive gums and bleeding when you brush your teeth. Find a good toothbrush with soft bristles and rinse your mouth with warm salt water. If things don’t improve, make an appointment with your dentist.

Written by Caitlin Flynn.

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