Table of Contents
First Trimester
The first trimester is a crucial time for your baby’s development. During this period, your baby’s major organs and body systems are formed. Your baby is considered an embryo during this stage and is about the size of a pea. The embryo’s heart begins to beat and tiny arms and legs start to form. The brain and spinal cord also begin to develop.
At the end of the first trimester, your baby has grown to about three inches long and weighs about an ounce. Your baby’s sex organs begin to develop, but it may still be too early to determine the gender.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is a time of growth and development for your baby. Your baby’s body continues to grow and develop, and you may start to feel movement as your baby becomes more active. Your baby’s eyebrows, eyelashes, and fingernails begin to form. The digestive system also begins to function, and your baby can swallow and excrete waste.
At the end of the second trimester, your baby has grown to about 12 inches long and weighs about two pounds. Your baby’s hearing also develops, and they can hear your voice and other sounds outside of the womb.
Third Trimester
The third trimester is the final stage of your pregnancy, and your baby is preparing for birth. Your baby’s lungs continue to develop, and they start to practice breathing. Your baby’s brain is also growing rapidly, and they are becoming more aware of their surroundings.
At the end of the third trimester, your baby has grown to about 20 inches long and weighs around seven pounds. Your baby’s bones have hardened, and they are ready to make their grand entrance into the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do to support my baby’s development during pregnancy? Eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and taking prenatal vitamins can all help to support your baby’s development during pregnancy.
When will I be able to determine my baby’s gender? Depending on the position of your baby during the ultrasound, you may be able to determine the gender as early as 16 weeks, but it is more likely to be accurate around 20 weeks.
When will my baby start to move? You may start to feel your baby’s movements as early as 16-20 weeks, but it can be later for some women.
What can I do to bond with my baby during pregnancy? Talking to your baby, playing music, and reading to them can all help to strengthen the bond between you and your baby during pregnancy.
What should I expect during labor and delivery? Every labor and delivery is different, but typically, contractions become more frequent and intense as you progress through labor. Once you reach 10 cm dilation, you will start pushing and your baby will be born.