Table of Contents
Week 1-4
When you find out you’re pregnant, your baby is already developing in your womb! In the first four weeks of pregnancy, the fertilized egg travels to the uterus and implants itself. Soon, the cells begin to divide, and the embryo starts to take shape.
Around week 3, the neural tube begins to form, which will eventually become your baby’s brain and spinal cord. By week 4, the heart begins to form and starts to beat!
Week 5-8
During these weeks, your baby’s major organs and body systems begin to form. The arms and legs start to grow, and you can see tiny fingers and toes. The face starts to take shape, with eyes, ears, nose, and mouth becoming visible.
By week 8, your baby is about the size of a raspberry, and all the major organs have formed. The baby is now called a fetus.
Week 9-12
During these weeks, the fetus grows rapidly, and you may be able to hear its heartbeat with a fetal doppler. The baby’s fingers and toes are no longer webbed, and it can even make facial expressions and move its limbs.
By week 12, the fetus is about the size of a lime, and its sex can usually be determined by ultrasound.
Week 13-16
During these weeks, the fetus grows hair and nails, and its skin becomes less transparent. The baby’s digestive system starts to work, and it can even swallow amniotic fluid!
By week 16, the fetus is about the size of an avocado, and its movements may be visible on the outside of your belly.
Week 17-20
During these weeks, the fetus continues to grow and develop. Its bones start to harden, and it begins to produce meconium, which will be its first bowel movement.
By week 20, the fetus is about the size of a sweet potato, and you may start to feel its movements regularly.
Week 21-24
During these weeks, the fetus’s organs continue to mature, and it starts to develop a sleep-wake cycle. The baby’s skin becomes less wrinkled, and it starts to put on more fat.
By week 24, the fetus is about the size of an ear of corn, and it has a good chance of survival if born prematurely.
Week 25-28
During these weeks, the fetus’s lungs continue to mature, and it starts to breathe amniotic fluid in preparation for birth. The baby’s brain is also developing rapidly.
By week 28, the fetus is about the size of an eggplant, and it may respond to noises outside the womb.
Week 29-32
During these weeks, the fetus’s bones are fully formed, but they are still soft and pliable. The baby’s eyes can open and close, and it can even dream!
By week 32, the fetus is about the size of a squash, and it is getting ready to turn head-down in preparation for birth.
Week 33-36
During these weeks, the fetus continues to grow and gain weight. Its skin becomes less red and wrinkled, and its head becomes more proportionate to its body.
By week 36, the fetus is about the size of a honeydew melon, and it is considered full-term.
Week 37-40
During these weeks, the fetus is ready for birth! Its head may drop down into your pelvis, and it may turn to face your back in preparation for delivery.
By week 40, the fetus is about the size of a watermelon, and it could come any day now!
It’s amazing to think about all the changes your baby goes through in the womb over the course of 40 weeks. From a tiny fertilized egg to a fully-formed baby, it’s truly a miracle of nature!
If you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s development, be sure to talk to your doctor or midwife. They can give you personalized advice and answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the fetus start to move?
A: You may start to feel your baby’s movements between weeks 16 and 25. At first, the movements may feel like flutters or bubbles, but they will become more distinct as the baby grows.
Q: Can I do anything to promote my baby’s development?
A: Eating a healthy diet, staying active, and getting enough rest are all important for your baby’s development. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs, as they can harm your baby’s growth and development.
Q: When should I start prenatal care?
A: It’s best to start prenatal care as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Your doctor or midwife can monitor your baby’s growth and development and catch any potential problems early on.
Q: Can I have an ultrasound to see my baby’s development?
A: Yes, most women have at least one ultrasound during their pregnancy to check on the baby’s growth and development. Ultrasound can also be used to determine the baby’s sex and check for any potential problems.
Q: What can I expect during labor and delivery?
A: Labor and delivery can be different for every woman, but most women experience contractions and pushing before the baby is born. Your doctor or midwife can give you more information and help you prepare for the big day!