Congratulations on reaching 14 weeks of pregnancy! You’re now in your second trimester and your baby is growing and developing at a rapid pace. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how your baby is developing at this stage of pregnancy.
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Size of Your Baby
At 14 weeks pregnant, your baby is approximately three and a half inches long and weighs around one and a half ounces. This is roughly the size of a lemon, and your baby is continuing to grow at a rapid pace.
Your baby’s head is now more proportional to their body, and their face is becoming more defined. Their eyes have moved closer together, and their ears are now in their final position on the side of their head.
Functioning Organs
By 14 weeks pregnant, your baby’s organs have begun to function. Their kidneys are producing urine, and their liver and spleen are creating red blood cells. Your baby’s digestive system is also beginning to function, with their intestines contracting and relaxing to move meconium, their first bowel movement, through their system.
Your baby’s heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and their circulatory system is becoming more complex. They’re now able to make fists and suck their thumbs, and their facial expressions are becoming more varied.
Gender Development
By 14 weeks pregnant, your baby’s genitals have formed, which means that if you have a diagnostic test such as an amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), your healthcare provider may be able to tell you the sex of your baby. However, if you’re waiting until your anatomy scan at around 20 weeks to find out your baby’s gender, you’ll have to wait a little longer.
Your Baby’s Brain
Your baby’s brain is continuing to develop rapidly at 14 weeks pregnant. Their neurons are branching out and forming connections, and their brain is able to control their movements more effectively. Your baby is still sleeping most of the time, but when they’re awake, they’re able to move around and practice their reflexes.
Your Baby’s Senses
At 14 weeks pregnant, your baby’s senses are developing rapidly. Their eyes can detect light and dark, and their taste buds are forming. Your baby’s sense of touch is also developing, and they’re able to respond to stimuli such as a poke or a prod.
Your Changing Body
As your baby grows and develops, you may notice changes in your own body as well. By 14 weeks pregnant, you may have gained a few pounds and your uterus is now approximately the size of a grapefruit. You may experience less fatigue and nausea as you enter your second trimester, although you may still experience occasional bouts of morning sickness.
You may also notice changes in your skin, such as darkening of the areolas and the appearance of a dark line down the center of your belly, known as the linea nigra. These changes are normal and usually fade after delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does my baby look like at 14 weeks pregnant?
Your baby is now approximately three and a half inches long and weighs around one and a half ounces. Their head is more proportional to their body, their face is becoming more defined, and their ears are in their final position on the side of their head.
What organs are functioning at 14 weeks pregnant?
Your baby’s organs are beginning to function at 14 weeks pregnant. Their kidneys are producing urine, their liver and spleen are creating red blood cells, and their digestive system is beginning to function.
Can I find out my baby’s gender at 14 weeks pregnant?
If you have a diagnostic test such as an amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), your healthcare provider may be able to tell you the sex of your baby. However, if you’re waiting until your anatomy scan at around 20 weeks to find out your baby’s gender, you’ll have to wait a little longer.
What changes can I expect in my own body at 14 weeks pregnant?
By 14 weeks pregnant, you may have gained a few pounds and your uterus is now the size of a grapefruit. You may experience less fatigue and nausea as you enter your second trimester, although you may still experience occasional bouts of morning sickness. You may also notice changes in your skin, such as darkening of the areolas and the appearance of a dark line down the center of your belly, known as the linea nigra.
What can I do to support my baby’s development at 14 weeks pregnant?
The best thing you can do to support your baby’s development at 14 weeks pregnant is to continue to take care of yourself. Eat a healthy, balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest. Attend all of your prenatal appointments and talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have.
In conclusion, your baby is growing and developing at a rapid pace at 14 weeks pregnant. From functioning organs to developing senses, your baby is on their way to becoming a healthy, happy little person. Enjoy this time and take care of yourself and your baby.