Fetal Development
A fertilized egg begins to divide a few hours after conception, and after about a week, this group of dividing cells has attached itself to the wall of the uterus. Over the next nine months, this tiny group of cells is transformed into a baby girl or boy.
Healthcare providers use the term “trimester” to discuss the various stages of fetal development. A trimester is a three-month period during which the baby reaches certain developmental milestones. The first trimester is the most crucial period for the baby. This is the time that the risk for miscarriage is the highest.
During the first month, the fetus’ backbone, spinal cord, and digestive system form, and the heart starts pumping blood. The baby’s arms and legs begin to develop in the second month, along with the eyes, nose, mouth and sexual organs. By the third month, the baby is about three inches long and has fully developed fingers and toes. The heartbeat can be heard with a special instrument called a Doppler.
The bones, muscles, and internal organs develop during the second trimester. By the fourth month, the baby’s heartbeat can be heard with a fetal stethoscope, and, the mother may feel the baby move. After six months, the baby’s internal organs are formed, and the eyelids may open. At this point the baby weighs about two pounds and is about 12 inches long.
During the third trimester, the baby continues to grow and mature, in preparation for birth. The mother may notice her baby is kicking more too. Babies born prematurely, but during the third trimester, have a good chance for survival. At birth, a baby weighs an average of seven pounds, and is 18 to 20 inches long.
Having a baby can seem exciting, but it is also a time of physical and emotional change. If you have questions about your pregnancy or about how your baby is growing – or if you are feeling anxious about giving birth, talk it over with your Mid-City OB-GYN healthcare provider. That way, you can be sure your pregnancy is a safe, happy, and healthy one.