As a mother, there is nothing more exciting than witnessing the growth and development of your baby. From the moment you find out you’re pregnant, you can’t help but wonder about the tiny life growing inside of you. One of the most common questions new mothers have is, “What is the first part a baby develops?”
The answer may surprise you. The first part of a baby to develop is the heart. That’s right, your little one’s heart starts beating just three weeks after conception. By the time you find out you’re pregnant, your baby’s heart has already been beating for a few weeks.
The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen to the brain and other organs. Without a functioning heart, life is not possible. That’s why it’s so amazing that the heart is the first organ to develop in a baby.
But the heart isn’t the only thing that develops early on in a baby’s life. Let’s take a closer look at the stages of fetal development.
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Stages of Fetal Development
Fetal development is divided into three trimesters, each lasting approximately three months. Here is a breakdown of what happens during each trimester:
First Trimester
During the first trimester, your baby is called an embryo. The embryo is about the size of a poppy seed and is made up of three layers: the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. These three layers will eventually develop into all of the organs and tissues in your baby’s body.
In addition to the heart, other organs begin to form during the first trimester. The brain and spinal cord start to take shape, as do the lungs, liver, and kidneys. By the end of the first trimester, your baby is about the size of a lime.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is when your baby really starts to grow. By the end of this trimester, your baby will be about 14 inches long and weigh around 2 pounds. During this time, your baby’s bones start to harden, and he or she begins to develop a layer of fat under the skin.
The second trimester is also when your baby’s senses start to develop. He or she can hear your voice, and the eyes start to move around behind closed eyelids. Your baby’s skin is still translucent at this point, but it will start to become more opaque as more fat is deposited under the skin.
Third Trimester
The third trimester is a time of rapid growth for your baby. He or she will gain about a half a pound per week during this time. By the end of the third trimester, your baby will be about 20 inches long and weigh around 7 pounds.
During the third trimester, your baby’s lungs are still developing. He or she is practicing breathing movements, which will help prepare the lungs for life outside of the womb. Your baby is also starting to position him or herself for birth, which means you may start to feel some kicking and squirming as your baby tries to get into the right position.
Source: bing.comConclusion
In conclusion, the first part of a baby to develop is the heart. But that’s just the beginning. Over the course of nine months, your baby will develop from a tiny poppy seed to a full-term baby ready to enter the world. It’s an amazing process, and one that you will never forget.
If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, be sure to talk to your doctor. He or she can give you more information about what to expect during each trimester and answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Is it normal for my baby’s heart rate to fluctuate during pregnancy?
- Q: When can I start to feel my baby move?
- Q: Can I have an ultrasound to find out the sex of my baby?
- Q: What can I do to promote my baby’s development during pregnancy?
- Q: What should I do if I’m not sure if I want to have a baby?
A: Yes, it is normal for your baby’s heart rate to fluctuate during pregnancy. Your baby’s heart rate may increase or decrease in response to movement, sound, or changes in your own heart rate. If you have concerns about your baby’s heart rate, talk to your doctor.
A: Most women start to feel their baby move between 16 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This is called “quickening.” If you haven’t felt your baby move by 22 weeks, talk to your doctor.
A: Yes, you can have an ultrasound to find out the sex of your baby. This is usually done between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
A: The best thing you can do to promote your baby’s development during pregnancy is to take care of yourself. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough rest. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. And be sure to attend all of your prenatal appointments.
A: If you’re not sure if you want to have a baby, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a counselor. They can provide you with information about your options and help you make the best decision for you.