Source: bing.comCongratulations! You’ve reached the 12th week of your pregnancy. Your baby is growing at an incredible rate and is now the size of a lime. At this stage, your baby’s development has truly taken off. Here’s what you need to know about your baby’s 12 weeks fetal development.
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Physical Development
During the 12th week of your pregnancy, your baby is about 2.5 inches long and weighs about half an ounce. All of your baby’s organs and systems are now formed, and they will continue to mature throughout the rest of your pregnancy. Your baby’s bones are hardening, and they now have tiny fingers and toes. Your baby’s face is becoming more defined, and they even have tiny earlobes.
Muscle Development
At this stage, your baby is starting to develop the muscles they will need to move around in the future. You might even feel some slight movements as your baby’s muscles start to flex. However, these movements are still too slight to be felt from the outside.
Sensory Development
Your baby’s senses are starting to develop at this stage. Their eyes are moving closer together, and their ears are now in their final position on the sides of their head. Your baby’s sense of touch is developing, and they may even start sucking their thumb in the womb.
Development of Reproductive Organs
At 12 weeks, your baby’s reproductive organs are starting to develop. Ultrasonography can determine whether your baby is a boy or a girl at this stage. Although your baby’s genitals are not fully formed, they will continue to develop throughout the rest of your pregnancy.
What to Expect
As you enter the second trimester, most women find that their morning sickness subsides. You may start to feel more energetic, and you may even start to show a little. This is the perfect time to start planning for your baby’s arrival. Consider attending childbirth education classes, and start making a list of everything you’ll need for your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is 12 weeks considered a safe time to announce my pregnancy?
A. Yes, 12 weeks is generally considered a safe time to announce your pregnancy. By this point, your risk of miscarriage has decreased significantly. However, it’s ultimately up to you to decide when you’re ready to share your news.
Q. Can I still exercise at this stage of my pregnancy?
A. Yes, most women can continue to exercise throughout their pregnancies. Talk to your doctor about what exercises are safe for you to do at this stage of your pregnancy.
Q. Is it normal to not feel any movement from my baby yet?
A. Yes, it’s perfectly normal to not feel any movement from your baby at 12 weeks. Most women don’t feel their baby move until closer to the 20th week of pregnancy.
Q. Can I find out the gender of my baby at 12 weeks?
A. Yes, it is possible to find out the gender of your baby at 12 weeks through an ultrasound. However, not all doctors offer this service, and it may not be covered by your insurance.
Q. What should I be eating at this stage of my pregnancy?
A. It’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet throughout your pregnancy. Focus on getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Talk to your doctor about any specific dietary needs you may have.