Know More About Your Baby

THE FIRST TRIMESTER: Week 3 - 4:The embryo is about the size of a grain of rice, as it attaches to the uterus. Week 4 - 5 :The body structures are starting to develop. Week 5 - 6 :The head is beginning to form and the heart is beating. This can be seen on an ultrasound scan. Week 6 - 8 :All internal organs are formed and the embryo is now about 1 inch long. The limbs, which look like tiny buds are now visible. Week 10 -11:The foetus moves around (although you will not be able to feel it yet); eyes are formed; fingers and toes are forming. THE SECOND TRIMESTER Week 14 - 16:The foetus is fully formed, has all vital organs and is gaining weight fast. It can stretch, turn its head, open its mouth, yawn and frown. Week 18:First movement may be felt by the mother as the foetus kicks, bumps, twists, turn and pushes against the uterus wall. Week 20:Teeth are starting to form in the jawbone and hair is growing. The foetus is now about 10 inches long. Your doctor will conduct an ultrasound screen to detect abnormalities. Week 24:Fingernails have formed, thumb sucking and hiccups begin. The eyes open occasionally. He is now about 13 inches. Week 27:Body fat is forming, the body is coated with waxy vernix, which prevents its skins from becoming soggy in the amniotic fluid. He is about 14.5 inches now. Week 12 - 13 :External genitals are forming; facial features are distinguishable, muscles are increasing in strength, movements are becoming more vigorous THE THIRD TRIMESTER Week 28:The foetus almost completely fills the uterus and may turn head down. You feel much kicking and fluttering of feet and hands. Week 32:All parts are now developed and the lungs are maturing. Week 36:The head will probably engage now if this if your first baby. Its cord is slippery, making it unlikely to knot during constant twisting and turning. Week 40:Most babies are pointing head down by now; the head is the heaviest part of the body and its weight can stimulate labour. You are ready for birth anytime. Congratulations on the arrival of your little bundle of joy!