Baby Development By Week In Womb
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Week 1 to Week 4
During the first four weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s development is just beginning. At this stage, your baby is no bigger than a poppy seed! You may not even know that you are pregnant yet, but your baby is already starting to grow. The cells that will eventually become your baby’s organs are beginning to form. The placenta, which will provide nutrients to your baby, is starting to develop as well.
Week 5 to Week 8
By week 8, your baby is now the size of a raspberry! During this stage, your baby’s major organs are forming. The heart is beating and can be seen on an ultrasound. Your baby’s arms and legs are also starting to form, and tiny fingers and toes are beginning to appear. Your baby’s brain is also developing at a rapid pace, and the facial features are starting to take shape.
Week 9 to Week 12
During this stage, your baby is now the size of a lime! Your baby’s bones are starting to harden, and the limbs are becoming more defined. The muscles are starting to develop, so your baby can make small movements. Your baby’s sex is now determined, and the external genitalia are starting to form. Your baby’s digestive and urinary systems are also starting to function.
Week 13 to Week 16
By week 16, your baby is now the size of an avocado! During this stage, your baby’s face is becoming more human-like, and the eyes are moving to the front of the head. The ears are also starting to move into their final position. Your baby’s skin is still translucent, but fine hair called lanugo is starting to cover the body. Your baby can also make sucking and swallowing movements.
Week 17 to Week 20
At this stage, your baby is now the size of a sweet potato! Your baby’s bones continue to harden and the muscles are becoming stronger. Your baby’s skin is also becoming less translucent, and the fat is starting to accumulate. Your baby can now hear sounds from the outside world, including your voice! Baby’s hair is growing, and eyebrows and eyelashes are starting to appear.
Week 21 to Week 24
During this stage, your baby is now the size of a cantaloupe! Your baby’s lungs are developing rapidly, and your baby is now able to breathe in amniotic fluid. The nervous system is also continuing to develop, and your baby can now feel pain. The skin is starting to become less wrinkled, and the eyes are now fully developed. Your baby is now starting to develop a sleep-wake cycle.
Week 25 to Week 28
By week 28, your baby is now the size of an eggplant! Your baby’s brain is now very active, and the facial features are becoming more distinct. Your baby’s eyes can now open and close, and the eyelashes are fully developed. The body is starting to fill out, and your baby is now strong enough to kick and wiggle. The lungs are not yet fully developed, but if born prematurely, your baby has a chance of survival.
Week 29 to Week 32
During this stage, your baby is now the size of a squash! The major organs are now fully developed, and your baby is starting to store iron and calcium. The bones are also becoming stronger, and the movements are becoming more coordinated. The skin is now becoming smoother, and the hair on the head is getting longer. Your baby is now able to distinguish between light and dark and can blink.
Week 33 to Week 36
By week 36, your baby is now the size of a honeydew melon! Your baby’s immune system is now starting to develop, and the lungs are getting stronger. Your baby’s movements may now start to slow down as there is less room in the uterus. The head is starting to move down into the pelvis in preparation for birth. Your baby’s skin is now pink and smooth.
Week 37 to Week 40
During this final stage, your baby is now fully developed, and the size of a small pumpkin! Your baby’s organs, including the lungs, are now fully functional. The head is now engaged in the pelvis, and your baby is in the correct position for birth. The skin is now plump and smooth, and the baby has a layer of fat. Your baby is now ready to enter the outside world!
Watching your baby grow and develop in the womb is an amazing experience. Every week, your baby is going through incredible changes as they prepare for birth. Understanding the different stages of development can help you feel more connected to your pregnancy and your growing baby.
So, keep talking to your baby, playing music, and taking care of yourself. You are creating the perfect environment for your baby to grow and thrive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does a baby start to move in the womb?
A: Your baby can start to move as early as 7 weeks, but most mothers don’t feel the movements until around 20 weeks.
Q: What should I eat during pregnancy to support my baby’s development?
A: You should focus on eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol.
Q: How often should I go to the doctor during pregnancy?
A: You should see your doctor or midwife for regular prenatal checkups throughout your pregnancy. The frequency of these visits will vary depending on your individual needs and medical history.
Q: Can I still exercise during pregnancy?
A: Yes, exercise is generally safe during pregnancy and can have many benefits for both you and your baby. However, you should always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
Q: When is my due date?
A: Your due date is calculated based on the first day of your last menstrual period. You can use an online due date calculator to estimate your due date.