Source: bing.comPregnancy is a beautiful journey that a woman goes through to bring a new life into the world. The feeling of creating a life inside you is wonderful, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities. Every week, your baby is developing and growing inside you. It’s amazing to know what’s happening in your belly week by week. So, let’s have a look at the development of your baby from week 1 to 40.
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Week 1-4
You are not actually pregnant during these weeks; however, doctors consider the first day of your last menstrual period as the starting point of your pregnancy. During these weeks, the fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube and implants itself in the uterine wall. The embryo is only the size of a poppy seed.
Week 5
This week marks the beginning of your baby’s development. The embryo is growing rapidly and now looks like a tadpole. The baby’s heart starts to beat, and the development of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system begins.
Week 6-7
The embryo is now about the size of a small grape. The arms and legs begin to form, and the fingers and toes start to appear. The baby’s brain is developing rapidly, and the face starts to take shape.
Week 8-9
During these weeks, the embryo is now called a fetus. The baby’s head is still very large, and the face is more human-like. The development of the internal organs begins, and the baby starts to move, although you can’t feel it yet.
Week 10-11
The fetus is now about the size of a small plum. The baby’s vital organs are fully formed, and the intestines start to move from the umbilical cord to the baby’s abdomen. The baby starts to make facial expressions and can squint, frown, and open its mouth.
Week 12-13
The fetus is now about 3 inches long, and you can hear the baby’s heartbeat with a Doppler. The baby’s vocal cords start to develop, and the baby can hiccup. The baby’s teeth and bones start to form, and the skin becomes less transparent.
Week 14-15
The fetus is now about the size of a lemon. The baby’s ears are in their final position, and the eyes are moving closer together. The baby’s bones are now harder, and the scalp hair starts to grow.
Week 16-17
The fetus is now about the size of an avocado. The baby’s muscles start to develop, and the baby can move its joints. The baby’s fingerprints and footprints start to form.
Week 18-19
The fetus is now about the size of a sweet potato. The baby’s skin is still wrinkled, but it’s becoming less transparent. The baby can now hear and respond to noises outside the womb.
Week 20-21
The fetus is now about the size of a banana. The baby’s movements are stronger and more frequent. The baby’s eyebrows and eyelashes start to grow, and the taste buds start to develop.
Week 22-23
The fetus is now about the size of a grapefruit. The baby’s organs are fully formed, and the lungs start to produce surfactant, which helps them expand after birth. The baby’s skin is covered in vernix caseosa, a waxy coating that protects the skin.
Week 24-25
The fetus is now about the size of a cantaloupe. The baby’s eyes are fully formed, and the irises have color. The baby’s brain is developing rapidly, and the baby can now dream.
Week 26-27
The fetus is now about the size of a cauliflower. The baby’s lungs are almost fully developed, and the baby can blink. The baby’s hearing is fully developed, and it can recognize your voice.
Week 28-29
The fetus is now about the size of an eggplant. The baby’s movements are more limited due to the growing size. The baby’s brain is growing rapidly, and it can now control its body temperature.
Week 30-31
The fetus is now about the size of a butternut squash. The baby’s bones are fully developed, but they are still soft and flexible. The baby’s brain is maturing, and it can now think and feel emotions.
Week 32-33
The fetus is now about the size of a pineapple. The baby’s movements are becoming more cramped, but it can still stretch and kick. The baby’s immune system is now developing, and it’s getting ready to face the world.
Week 34-35
The fetus is now about the size of a honeydew melon. The baby’s head is now proportionate to its body, and the baby’s skin is smooth. The baby’s kidneys are now functioning, and it can urinate.
Week 36-37
The fetus is now about the size of a watermelon. The baby is getting ready for birth and is now in the head-down position. The baby’s skin is now pink and smooth.
Week 38-39
The fetus is now fully developed and ready for birth. The baby’s lungs are mature, and the baby can breathe on its own. The baby’s head is engaged in the pelvis, and you are getting ready for labor.
Week 40
This is your due date week. About 40 weeks have passed since your last menstrual period, and your baby is ready to meet you. However, only about 5% of babies are born on their due date. Your doctor will let you know when it’s time to give birth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most critical stage of baby development in pregnancy?
Every stage of baby development is critical, but the first trimester is the most important. During this time, the baby’s vital organs and systems are developing. The mother’s lifestyle and diet play a significant role during this time.
2. When can I feel my baby’s movements during pregnancy?
You can feel your baby’s movements at around 16-25 weeks. However, it’s different for every woman, and some may feel the movements earlier or later.
3. Can the baby’s gender be determined during pregnancy?
Yes, the baby’s gender can be determined through an ultrasound. However, it’s more accurate after the 20th week of pregnancy.
4. How can I ensure the healthy development of my baby during pregnancy?
You can ensure the healthy development of your baby by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet, attending regular prenatal appointments, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and getting enough rest.
5. What should I do if I notice any abnormal signs or symptoms during pregnancy?
You should immediately consult your doctor if you notice any abnormal signs or symptoms during pregnancy. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your baby.