When you are pregnant, it is important to know what to expect as your baby grows and develops inside your womb. Understanding your baby’s development can help you prepare for your pregnancy and the arrival of your little one. Here is a week-by-week guide to your baby’s development:
Table of Contents
Week 1-4
During the first four weeks of pregnancy, your baby is just a tiny ball of cells. The fertilized egg implants itself in the lining of your uterus and begins to grow. This is when your baby’s major organs and body systems start to form.
Week 5-8
At this stage, your baby is about the size of a grape. The heart begins to beat and the brain starts to form. Your baby’s arms, legs, and facial features start to take shape, and the umbilical cord begins to develop.
Week 9-12
Your baby is now the size of a plum. The fingers and toes are fully formed, and the nails begin to grow. The digestive system and kidneys start to function, and your baby can make sucking movements with their mouth.
Week 13-16
At this stage, your baby is about the size of an avocado. The muscles and bones are getting stronger, and your baby can start to make small movements. The gender of your baby can be determined through an ultrasound.
Week 17-20
Your baby is now the size of a banana. The skin becomes less transparent, and hair starts to grow on the head. Your baby’s hearing develops, and they can hear your voice and other sounds around them.
Week 21-24
At this stage, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit. The lungs and other organs continue to develop, and your baby can start to breathe in small amounts of amniotic fluid. Your baby’s taste buds start to form, and they can start to taste the food you eat.
Week 25-28
Your baby is now the size of an eggplant. The eyes open for the first time, and your baby can start to see light and dark. Your baby’s body fat starts to increase, and they can start to regulate their own body temperature.
Week 29-32
At this stage, your baby is about the size of a butternut squash. The bones are fully formed, but still soft and pliable. Your baby’s movements may start to slow down as they have less space to move around in your womb.
Week 33-36
Your baby is now the size of a pineapple. The head may start to move down into your pelvis as your baby prepares for birth. Your baby’s lungs are fully developed, and they can start to practice breathing movements.
Week 37-40
At this stage, your baby is fully developed and ready for birth. Your baby may weigh between 6 to 9 pounds and be about 18 to 20 inches long. Your body may start to prepare for labor by having Braxton Hicks contractions.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, and your baby may develop at a slightly different pace. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my baby hear me talking while in the womb?
A: Yes, your baby’s hearing develops around 20 weeks, and they can hear your voice and other sounds around them.
Q: When can I find out the gender of my baby?
A: The gender of your baby can be determined through an ultrasound around 16-20 weeks.
Q: How big will my baby be at birth?
A: Your baby may weigh between 6 to 9 pounds and be about 18 to 20 inches long.
Q: When will my baby start to move inside my womb?
A: You may start to feel your baby’s movements around 16-25 weeks.
Q: What should I do if I have concerns about my baby’s development?
A: Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s development.
Sources:
https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20045997
https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy-week-by-week
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy#pregnant-mom
https://www.webmd.com/baby/pregnancy-week-by-week-default.htm