Source: bing.comAs a soon-to-be mom, you are probably curious about your baby’s development. It’s natural to wonder when your baby will start growing and developing. The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as genetics, nutrition, and environmental factors. However, there are some general milestones that most babies reach at certain weeks of pregnancy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what week does baby start developing.
Table of Contents
Week 1-2
During the first two weeks of pregnancy, your baby is still just a cluster of cells. The process of fertilization has just occurred, and the cells are starting to divide and multiply rapidly. At this point, your baby’s sex and genetic makeup are determined.
Week 3-4
By the end of week 3, your baby is now an embryo, and it has implanted itself in the lining of your uterus. The primitive placenta is forming, which will eventually nourish your baby throughout your pregnancy. By week 4, your baby’s heart is starting to form, and it will begin to beat by the end of the week.
Week 5-8
During weeks 5-8, your baby’s major organs and body systems are forming. Your baby’s brain, spinal cord, heart, and lungs are all developing rapidly. By the end of week 8, your baby is now a fetus, and all of its major organs are in place.
Week 9-12
During weeks 9-12, your baby’s fingers and toes are forming, and its skin is becoming more opaque. Your baby is also starting to practice breathing, although it is still getting all of its oxygen from the placenta. By the end of week 12, your baby is about the size of a plum.
Week 13-16
During weeks 13-16, your baby is growing rapidly. It is now about the size of an avocado, and its facial features are becoming more defined. Your baby’s skeleton is also starting to harden, and its muscles are getting stronger. You may start to feel your baby moving around during this time, although it may still be too early to feel regular movement.
Week 17-20
During weeks 17-20, your baby’s movements may become more pronounced. You may start to feel regular kicks and jabs as your baby becomes more active. Your baby is also starting to develop its sense of taste, and its taste buds are forming. By week 20, your baby is now about the size of a banana.
Week 21-24
During weeks 21-24, your baby’s lungs are developing rapidly. Although your baby is still getting all of its oxygen from the placenta, it is now able to practice breathing in preparation for life outside the womb. Your baby’s eyes are also starting to open, and it can now distinguish between light and dark.
Week 25-28
During weeks 25-28, your baby’s brain is developing rapidly. Your baby is now able to respond to sound and light, and it may startle in response to loud noises. Your baby is also starting to develop its own sleeping and waking patterns.
Week 29-32
During weeks 29-32, your baby is growing rapidly, and it is now about the size of a squash. Your baby’s bones are becoming stronger, and its skin is becoming less wrinkled. Your baby’s immune system is also developing, and it is starting to produce its own antibodies.
Week 33-36
During weeks 33-36, your baby is getting ready for birth. Its head is starting to move down into your pelvis, which may make you feel more comfortable but can also cause some discomfort. Your baby’s lungs are almost fully developed, and it is now able to regulate its own body temperature.
Week 37-40
During weeks 37-40, your baby is considered full-term and ready for birth. It is now about the size of a watermelon, and it may weigh anywhere from 6-10 pounds. Your baby’s organs are fully developed, and it is now able to survive outside the womb.
In conclusion, your baby’s development is a complex and fascinating process. While there are general milestones that most babies reach at certain weeks of pregnancy, every baby is unique. It’s important to take good care of yourself during pregnancy, so that you can give your baby the best possible start in life. Eat well, stay active, and get plenty of rest. And remember, your doctor or midwife is always available to answer any questions you may have about your baby’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What week does the baby’s heart start beating?
A: The baby’s heart starts beating at around week 4 of pregnancy.
Q: When can you feel the baby move?
A: You may start to feel the baby move around weeks 13-16, although it may still be too early to feel regular movement.
Q: When is the baby fully developed?
A: The baby is considered fully developed at around week 37-40 of pregnancy.
Q: What are some factors that can affect the baby’s development?
A: Factors that can affect the baby’s development include genetics, nutrition, environmental factors, and maternal health.
Q: Is it normal for the baby to move less as pregnancy progresses?
A: Yes, it is normal for the baby to move less as pregnancy progresses, as there is less room in the uterus for the baby to move around.