Source: bing.comIf you’re a new mom, you probably have a million questions about your baby’s development, and that’s totally normal. Watching your little one grow and change every week is a wonderful experience, but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to baby development week by week from conception.
Table of Contents
Week 1-2: Conception
During the first two weeks of your pregnancy, your baby is just a tiny ball of cells called a zygote. This zygote will begin to divide rapidly, and it will travel down your fallopian tube and into your uterus. Once it reaches your uterus, it will implant itself into the lining, and your pregnancy will officially begin.
Week 3-4: The Embryo Forms
During week three, your baby’s heart will begin to beat for the first time. By the end of week four, your baby will be around the size of a poppy seed. At this point, your baby is still considered an embryo, and his or her organs and systems are just beginning to form.
Week 5-8: Major Organs Develop
During this stage of development, your baby’s major organs and systems will begin to develop. Your baby’s brain, spinal cord, and nervous system will start to take shape, and his or her heart will become more complex. By the end of week eight, your baby will be around the size of a raspberry.
Week 9-12: Fingernails and Toenails Form
During the ninth week of your pregnancy, your baby will begin to develop fingernails and toenails. Your baby’s ears will also start to move into their final position, and his or her eyes will move closer together. By the end of week twelve, your baby will be around the size of a lime.
Week 13-16: Gender Can Be Determined
During the thirteenth week of your pregnancy, your baby’s vocal cords will begin to develop, and he or she will be able to make sounds. This is also the point where your doctor may be able to determine your baby’s gender. By the end of week sixteen, your baby will be around the size of an avocado.
Week 17-20: Movement Begins
During this stage of development, your baby will start to move around more. You may be able to feel your baby’s movements for the first time during this period. By the end of week twenty, your baby will be around the size of a banana.
Week 21-24: Lungs Develop
During week twenty-one, your baby’s taste buds will start to develop, and he or she will be able to taste the amniotic fluid. Your baby’s lungs will also start to develop during this period, which is an important milestone for his or her survival outside of the womb. By the end of week twenty-four, your baby will be around the size of an ear of corn.
Week 25-28: Eyes Open
During this stage of development, your baby’s eyes will open for the first time. He or she will also start to develop more fat, which will help keep your baby warm after birth. By the end of week twenty-eight, your baby will be around the size of a cauliflower.
Week 29-32: Brain Development Continues
During this period, your baby’s brain will continue to develop, and he or she will start to form more complex thoughts and memories. Your baby’s bones will also start to harden, and he or she will be able to regulate his or her own body temperature. By the end of week thirty-two, your baby will be around the size of a squash.
Week 33-36: Baby Prepares for Birth
During this period, your baby will start to prepare for birth. He or she will move into the head-down position, which is the best position for delivery. Your baby’s immune system will also start to develop, and he or she will start to practice breathing. By the end of week thirty-six, your baby will be around the size of a honeydew melon.
Week 37-40: Ready for Birth
During the final weeks of your pregnancy, your baby will be fully developed and ready for birth. Your baby will continue to grow and gain weight, and he or she will move lower into your pelvis in preparation for delivery. By the end of week forty, your baby will be around the size of a watermelon, and he or she will be ready to meet the world.
Watching your baby’s development week by week from conception is a truly amazing experience. From a tiny zygote to a fully formed baby, the changes that happen during pregnancy are truly incredible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I expect during the first trimester?
During the first trimester, you may experience symptoms such as fatigue, morning sickness, and tender breasts. You may also have some spotting, which is normal as long as it’s light and doesn’t last long. Your doctor will monitor your progress and make sure everything is on track.
Q: When will I start to feel my baby move?
Most women start to feel their baby move between weeks sixteen and twenty-five. The movements will start out feeling like flutters or bubbles, but they will gradually become more pronounced. If you haven’t felt your baby move by week twenty-five, you should talk to your doctor.
Q: How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?
The amount of weight you should gain during pregnancy depends on your pre-pregnancy weight. Women who are at a healthy weight should gain between twenty-five and thirty-five pounds. Women who are underweight should gain more, and women who are overweight should gain less. Your doctor will help you determine the right amount of weight to gain.
Q: What can I do to support my baby’s development?
Eating a healthy diet, staying active, and getting enough rest are all important for supporting your baby’s development. You should also take prenatal vitamins and avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful substances. Your doctor can provide you with more information on how to support your baby’s development.
Q: What should I expect during labor and delivery?
Labor and delivery can be a long process, but your doctor will be there to guide you every step of the way. You may experience contractions, which can feel like intense cramps, and you will push your baby out when the time comes. Your doctor will monitor your progress and make sure you and your baby are safe throughout the process.