Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Week 1-4: Formation of Major Organs
Congratulations! You’re now in the 12th week of pregnancy, and your baby has made significant progress in terms of development. During weeks one to four, your baby’s major organs started forming, including the heart, brain, and spinal cord. At this stage, your baby is referred to as an embryo and is about the size of a poppy seed.
Week 5-8: Fetal Period Begins
From weeks five to eight, your baby’s growth continues at a rapid pace. Your baby’s face begins to take shape as tiny ears, eyes, and nose start to form. The fingers and toes become more defined, and the limbs start to move. The fetal period officially begins during this stage, and your baby is now referred to as a fetus.
Week 9-12: Rapid Brain Development
As you enter weeks nine to twelve, your baby’s brain development kicks into high gear. The brain makes new connections at a rapid pace, and your baby can now move its arms and legs. The digestive system starts to function, and your baby can even suck its thumb! Your baby is now about two inches long and weighs half an ounce.
What You Might Notice
By week 12, you might start to experience a little more energy and less nausea. Your uterus has grown to the size of a grapefruit, and you might start to notice a small bump in your belly. You’ll likely have a prenatal appointment around this time, where your healthcare provider will check your baby’s heartbeat and measure your uterus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Development By Week 12
Q: Is it safe to exercise during the first trimester?
A: Light to moderate exercise is generally safe during the first trimester, but it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider first.
Q: What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
A: You should avoid certain foods during pregnancy, such as raw or undercooked meat, fish with high levels of mercury, unpasteurized dairy products, and deli meats.
Q: When will I start to feel my baby move?
A: You’ll likely start to feel your baby move between 16 and 25 weeks, but it varies for each person and pregnancy.
Q: Can stress harm my baby?
A: High levels of stress can affect your health and your baby’s development, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress during pregnancy.
Q: When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?
A: It’s best to start taking prenatal vitamins before you get pregnant, but if that’s not possible, start taking them as soon as you find out you’re pregnant.
In summary, during weeks one to four, major organs start forming. From weeks five to eight, the fetal period begins, and your baby’s face begins to take shape. During weeks nine to twelve, your baby’s brain development kicks into high gear, and your baby can move its arms and legs. You might start to experience more energy and less nausea, and your healthcare provider will likely check your baby’s heartbeat and measure your uterus during prenatal appointments. Remember to always check with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s development.