Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Your Baby’s Development Week by Week
Are you counting down the days until you get to meet your little one? Pregnancy is an incredible journey, and each week brings new changes and developments for your growing bump. From the day of conception to full-term, the average pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening during each of those weeks.
Weeks 1-4: Conception and Implantation
The first few weeks of pregnancy can be tricky to pin down because they’re calculated from the first day of your last period, rather than the actual day of conception. During week 1, your body is gearing up for ovulation. By week 2, ovulation occurs, and if the sperm and egg meet, fertilization happens. During week 3, the fertilized egg travels down the fallopian tube and implants into the uterine lining during week 4.
Weeks 5-8: Organ Formation
During weeks 5-8, your baby’s major organs begin to form, including the heart, brain, and spine. The embryo is now officially called a fetus. By week 8, the baby is approximately the size of a raspberry and has tiny arms and legs.
Weeks 9-12: Nervous System Development
During weeks 9-12, your baby’s nervous system begins to develop, and the baby starts to move. The baby’s sex can usually be determined by an ultrasound during week 12.
Weeks 13-16: Growth Spurt
During weeks 13-16, your baby experiences a growth spurt, and their body starts to become more proportionate. The baby is also growing hair and nails.
Weeks 17-20: Movement and Hearing
During weeks 17-20, the baby’s movements become more noticeable, and they may be able to hear sounds from the outside world. The baby’s skin is also becoming less transparent.
Weeks 21-24: Lung Development
During weeks 21-24, your baby’s lungs are developing, and they’re practicing breathing movements. The baby may also have a regular sleep-wake cycle.
Weeks 25-28: Weight Gain and Eye Opening
During weeks 25-28, your baby starts to gain more weight and fill out their features. Their eyes also start to open, and they may begin to recognize voices.
Weeks 29-32: Brain Development and Immune System
During weeks 29-32, your baby’s brain is developing rapidly, and they’re forming more connections between neurons. The baby’s immune system is also developing to help fight off infections after birth.
Weeks 33-36: Final Stretch
During weeks 33-36, your baby is in the final stretch of development, and their body is getting ready for birth. The baby usually weighs around 5-6 pounds and is approximately 18-19 inches long.
Weeks 37-40: Full-Term and Birth
During weeks 37-40, your baby is full-term and ready to be born. The baby may weigh between 6-9 pounds and be around 19-21 inches long. Labor and birth can happen at any time during this period, and your doctor or midwife will be monitoring your progress closely.
Source: bing.comFrequently Asked Questions
When does pregnancy officially start?
Pregnancy is officially calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period.
How long is the average pregnancy?
The average pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks.
When can I find out my baby’s sex?
In most cases, your baby’s sex can be determined by an ultrasound around week 12.
What should I expect during labor and delivery?
Labor and delivery can vary greatly from person to person. Your doctor or midwife can provide more information about what to expect during your individual experience.
When should I call my doctor or midwife?
If you experience any concerning symptoms, such as bleeding, severe pain, or decreased fetal movement, you should call your doctor or midwife immediately.