Day 34

23 weeks pregnant

As I continuously expand literally and figuratively, exercising eases out the difficulties brought about by relaxin (the hormone released during pregnancy to help soften the joints to ease pelvic expansion for the growing fetus inside the uterus that may lead to weak joints and unstable gait). Swimming had made me more agile and it aids in efficient lung expansion for better oxygenation and for proper blood circulation to happen during my pregnancy. I loved how I felt afterwards knowing that I am on my 23rd week. I am obviously showing and people around me are alarmed that I may look bigger than expected. We checked with our gynaecologist and we were advised of normal weight gain. Though as we planned to deliver normally, I am encouraged to cut down a little bit from carbs as the baby's internal organs are now well developed. My baby will be needing more protein and calcium as it is developing the bones, muscles and fats needed to live outside the womb. Moreover, exercise doesn't just help me but also the baby in adapting to life easily having a healthy body and a sound mind benefiting from the endorphin release by the mom's nurturing body. To that, I am glad that I was productive today with my exercise.