How long does it take for a child's organs to form? How does a baby develop in the womb? How does the baby feel and what does he do in his mother’s belly?

In this article:

Pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. During this time, a child develops from two cells. Gradual development takes place within a set time frame: every week the child in the womb changes. All this is very interesting for the impatient expectant mother, especially if this is your first child. Knowing the stages of fetal development is important, because then you can significantly help your baby.

Your help - proper nutrition, rest and less stress - all this is beneficial. It is important to visit a doctor on time and listen to your well-being, because very soon your tiny heart will begin to beat. Proper nutrition is important in each trimester, but in some periods you should change your diet and foods. Over the months and weeks you know exactly what is happening inside. Every day something new happens and mom can monitor how the pregnancy is progressing. Getting to know a child begins long before he is born. Mom already knows how to guess his desires and needs- This is a joyful period of life for every woman.

Beginning of pregnancy

You could be planning a pregnancy, or maybe it happened unexpectedly - either way, it happened. Which means woman needs to make a decision whether she wants to be a mother or not. If yes, then for the next 9 months the expectant mother will be very interested in watching the development of the baby in her womb.

Surprise or anticipation?

Today there is many methods and plans for pregnancy planning. This is important not only for some moral reasons. No, leave morality and think about this: what are you eat, drink, eat food every day? After all, you may not know that you are pregnant and drink alcohol. So you can inadvertently greatly do even a lot of harm desired baby.

And at this time, a new life begins inside you for the baby. It is important to monitor his development week by week, because this way you will already help him, his organs and bones to form correctly. How? With the help of proper nutrition, vitamins and your careful attitude towards yourself.

With a planned pregnancy, you begin preparing your body six months to a year before conception. Woman taking vitamins, tries to reduce stress levels, gets more rest, and undergoes regular doctor’s monitoring. Remember that the development of a child in the first weeks can be affected not only by alcohol and tobacco, but also by pills. Many antibiotics are contraindicated throughout pregnancy.

Three trimesters

Pregnancy is divided into three periods of 3 months - they are called trimesters. Fine pregnancy lasts 38-40 weeks. For some, labor may begin a little earlier, and for others a little later. A child has his own deadlines: all the systems of his little body are developing, and he knows when he is ready to be born.

To do this, he must first have developed lungs. This is a problem for very premature babies, because now doctors are successfully solving the problem of birth at 7-8 months. These tiny babies are kept in incubators, where all the conditions are created for them, as in the womb. There are the lungs, heart and gastrointestinal tract "ripening" allotted time.

Of course, such an outcome is undesirable, because it will somehow harm the baby’s development. If you follow your doctor's advice, stick to the visiting schedule, get tested and respond to your body’s signals, premature birth can be completely avoided. Even if there are some pathologies.

First trimester

If you do not know that you are pregnant, then until the 3rd month there may be no symptoms at all. The abdomen will not increase much; toxicosis may begin only at the end of the trimester. At this time, your body changes: hormonal levels, appetite, mood. Gradually, by week, but changes are happening.

Important: if you have reason to believe that pregnancy has occurred, do not delay confirmation. A test from a pharmacy is an effective remedy. In any case, it is better to check with a doctor. The fact is that the first trimester is the most invisible, but also the most important for the child. You may accidentally, without knowing, cause harm to him - this cannot be allowed.

It is at this time that the formation of organs occurs: the heart, nerves, stomach, bones, tissues. Now the unborn baby should not be disturbed or “fed” with anything harmful. The tiny embryo must attach to the wall of the uterus. Unfortunately, a large percentage of miscarriages are recorded during this period. Therefore, you need to behave very carefully, carefully and calmly.

1 Week

The sperm and the egg met and merged. Division has begun. Already in the first week it is a tiny zygote. Now this unique cell has only one task - to divide, increase, and become more complex. It will take 3-4 days for it to attach to the wall of the uterus. If this happens, your baby will begin to develop rapidly.

2 week

Attachment has occurred. Now the fetus is firmly attached in order to have a connection with the mother’s body. This is no longer a set of cells, but an embryo - small, only 0.2 mm. A membrane (membrane) develops around it, which performs two functions: it protects it and helps it nourish. Now there is a growth of cells that will subsequently specialize and develop into cells of different organs and systems . The formation of the placenta, umbilical cord and neural tube begins.

3 week

The embryo develops a nerve chord and acquires oval outline. His organs aren't quite ready yet, but cells for them are grouped. The embryo has grown - already 1.25 mm. On the 21st day of development, the future heart begins to beat. Of course, this is not a real heart yet, but only a cluster of cells, but they have become active. Now the embryo does not yet look like a person - it is an oval disk, slightly compressed in the middle. There his first nervous system is formed. This is a very complex process that must be done correctly.

4 week

Now it's an embryo. He develops a more complex heart - a two-chambered one. The mother needs to be very careful during this period: take medications under the supervision of a doctor, no alcohol or cigarettes. A real miracle happens in her womb: a cluster of cells takes shape, and also - eyes. In the embryo eyes are formed- of course, he won’t be able to open and close them yet, but they already exist. Just like the first stomach, blood and vessels. So far, his blood is fetal - not the same as that of adults.

5 week

Happens at week 5 rapid growth embryo - from 5 to 10 mm in one week. This is a huge leap for the future baby. Now you can hear his heartbeat on an ultrasound. All living beings at the beginning of development have a similar embryonic form. Week after week they change and differences appear. People's tails fall off at this time. In animals with a tail it remains. There are already the first outlines of the baby's face.

week 6

Active movement occurs in the baby’s tummy: stomach, intestines, kidneys and liver put pressure on each other. The organs help each other take the right place. Hands and legs are already visible, on Ultrasound shows that sometimes the baby makes small movements with them. Now his head is larger than his body - such a small tadpole.

week 7

Development of the brain and circulatory system. The vessels sprout, their system becomes more branched. The little arms and legs of the embryo are becoming more and more realistic. On them fingers appear.

8 week

There is now a small man in the womb - only 4 cm, but he no longer looks like a tadpole. Body proportions appear. Eyelids appear on his face, cheeks and nostrils are visible.

Week 9

This week marks the end of the embryonic period. Now it is proudly called “fruit”. Now it is growing and reaches 6-7 cm in length. Now the child begins to make his first facial expressions: his mouth opens and closes, his forehead wrinkles. It is still unclear whether it is a boy or a girl: The genitals are exactly the same. But the gastrointestinal tract becomes more complicated, the small intestine appears.

10 week

The fetal organs are finishing forming - they will further develop and increase in size.

11 week

Hair appears on the baby's body - first fluff. His height is already 10 cm. His face becomes human-like: eyes come closer together, ears and brow ridges appear.

12 week

This week, the neck stretches and muscle formation begins actively. The head is large, but the brain is not yet developed - he's just getting ready for it. This is how the first trimester of pregnancy ends. The fruit size is about 12 mm and weight is 52 grams.

Second trimester

In second trimester It’s no longer possible to say that you don’t feel your baby. He starts kicking. Due to such activity, the mother's sleep can be spoiled - at night, a blow to the ribs will definitely quickly wake you up. The uterus enlarges, your tummy grows.

A woman feels short of breath while climbing stairs and often wants to go to the toilet. If the first trimester passed calmly, now there may be an aversion to
some smells or food, vomiting.

You need to keep your blood pressure under control. In some women, blood pressure drops so low that they faint. This is dangerous for you and your baby, because a fall can lead to injury. If you notice a sudden change in blood pressure, sit down, call your family or ask for help from those nearby.

By the end of the 6th month there may be training contractions. Don't be alarmed if they last only a few seconds and pass quickly. It means that your body has set a course for childbirth. Of course, you still have three months ahead, but such contractions are possible from time to time. Just 1-3 times for a couple of seconds is normal. The uterus checks how the muscles work. But if you feel prolonged, painful contractions, and you are bleeding, then call an ambulance immediately! Something is wrong.

Week 13

Now the fetus has very thin skin - everything is visible through it: blood vessels, organs, nerves. The main thing is that the bones have formed. Every week they became stronger and stronger thanks to calcium from the mother’s body.

Week 14

The baby already has nails! He begins to move his arms and legs, and sometimes you can feel tremors. For the mother this is a signal: everything is going well, active baby and develops correctly.

Week 15

Brain development begins. First - the cortex, and the convolutions and everything else will appear a little later. Your child is getting heavier day by day, because now he has a layer of fat.

Week 16

Now its growth is slowing down a little. It is about 20.5 cm and weighs about 215 grams. The baby straightens his arms and can move freely around the uterus. If you don't feel tremors for several days, don't worry, there's nothing to worry about. Now he saves energy, because it is required for the development of the central nervous system and brain.

Week 17

Time of development of the lungs and bronchial system. Now it is important that the blood circulates well, then they will develop correctly. The baby's eyes are closed, but he is able to distinguish between light and dark. So he already knows about day and night. By the way, now you can already determine the gender of your baby or toddler.

Week 18

The baby begins to explore himself in the womb. At 18 weeks, he may suck a thumb, touch himself, turn away from a light source, or ultrasound machine. This is the time when he begins to feel his limbs thanks to the development of nerve endings.

Week 19

At this time, the body's glands develop: pancreas, thyroid, genitals. A child can swallow amniotic fluid – this is even good : this stimulates the work of the gastrointestinal tract.

Week 20

Height is 28 cm and weight is 500 grams. The structure becomes more complex brain: Now he already looks like an adult, but he will still need a lot of time to “mature.” This one has crumbs sweat glands appear.

21 weeks

Active development of the heart and blood vessels. The skin thickens and the fuzz darkens. The fetus is still lacking subcutaneous fat, so this and next week Mom needs to eat very well. Like for two.

Week 22

Now the baby already looks like a newborn baby. His head, body, arms and legs are very small, but already human. Now he has convolutions of the brain. This is a long process, because the brain is one of the most complex organs. It develops gradually throughout all three trimesters.

Week 23

Bones are strengthened, blood vessels become strong, and they supply organs well with oxygen. Now the baby is almost viable, and if he is born prematurely, at 23-24 weeks, doctors will be able to help him survive. But this is a long, very difficult and fraught process.

Week 24

The heart grows, its structure changes. It tries different rhythms, so the baby may have a short arrhythmia. This is fine. Already now, in his mother’s womb, he begins to hear sounds and voices. Talk to him: it will please both of you.

Week 25

This week the baby's weight reaches 1 kg or a little more. The child learned to open his eyes. Eyes are fully formed– Now he can already distinguish colors.

Week 26

Brain mass increases. Its structure it's getting more difficult, and the first hairs appear on the head. Eyelashes and eyebrows also appear. Now the eye color of any baby is blue. He will change quickly after birth. The child’s nervous system is fully developed, he can feel.

Week 27

What is very important here is that at week 27 the child’s own immune system begins to work actively. His body is capable of producing blood cells. It regulates body temperature by adapting to the environment. This is how the second trimester ends - we move on to the final.

Third trimester

This trimester is preparation for childbirth. The uterus has expanded greatly, and now your belly is already an impressive size. The fetus puts more and more pressure on the bladder, and frequent urges to go to the toilet will accompany you until birth. Now the baby is in a period of activity, and he kicks harder - it may even hurt you.

For the mother, this is a time of peace. You won’t be able to be very active, because at 7-8 months your legs swell due to a woman with a large belly becomes clumsy. Back pain may begin, but proper exercises for pregnant women will relieve the stress. You can use a special belt. This is especially recommended for those mothers who have had or have problems with the spine.

You need to remember that water-salt balance is now your main concern. You sweat a lot and often want to go to the toilet. Losing more fluid than usual is dangerous: This will lead to premature birth. Drink, eat vegetables and fruits, soups. If you feel sharp pain or are bleeding, call a doctor or an ambulance immediately. In the third trimester, sudden placental abruption may occur.

The last few weeks provide welcome rest. The heartburn goes away, the baby calms down a little. The uterus drops lower - this is the control line. Then comes childbirth - in just 1-2 weeks or even earlier.

Week 28

Working hours of the spleen. It has been developing for a long time, and now it is beginning to fulfill its function of hematopoiesis. The blood is still fetal, but its composition is more complex. The nails and hair on the head are actively growing. More and more subcutaneous fat appears.

Week 29

Now the child’s body is no longer transparent, but pink. The skin becomes dense, vessels and organs cannot be seen through it. He already has quite enough fat under his skin - this helps to establish a constant temperature.

Week 30

A week of active weight gain. Child already weighs almost 2 kg! Now his head has become proportional. Internal organs again We began to actively improve, because the main thing ahead was birth.

31 weeks

While the baby is still able to roll over and move around freely. Soon the uterus will stretch, and he will grow completely - at this time the baby will no longer be able to move so easily and will push away. The most important thing is that at this time a unique substance appears in his blood - surfactant. It will help his lungs open after birth. Now they are dormant, developing, but not opening.

Week 32

The baby already weighs 2200 g or more. He learned to go to the toilet himself: his kidneys and reproductive system began to work. This is important, because he must learn this before he is born. Now he already has his fingerprints, the skin becomes covered with grooves and folds. Everything is like adults.

Week 33

By this time the baby reached 45 centimeters. He himself begins to prepare for childbirth: he moves down, closer to the pelvic bones. Organs and systems are still developing in the womb, but many of them are already viable. Now he has long nails with which the baby can scratch himself.

34 week

The child becomes plump. While there is still a lot of amniotic fluid, he swallows it. Now it appears the first of the most important reflexes is sucking: The baby sucks his fingers and toes. This is preparation for birth. Now it is more peaceful: you need to accumulate energy for birth and the first breath.

Week 35

An important point at 34-35 weeks - nerve endings are covered with a protective sheath. The child’s central nervous system becomes more complicated. In principle, he is ready for childbirth, but he is still growing and getting heavier. Now the child already weighs 2.6 - 2.7 kg.

Week 36

The fluff disappears - his skin must prepare for the first meeting with air. However, some children are born with fluff, and there is nothing wrong with that - it will fall off on its own over time.

Week 37

The child’s weight reaches 3 kg, and his height is 50 cm. He is clearly cramped, because the uterus is stretched to its limit. Your baby's respiratory system is still developing. She needs to be given maximum time to prepare. Now is the time of exciting anticipation for everyone - his birth will soon. True, these last weeks are worth their weight in gold.

38 weeks and until delivery

Now the child is completely ready. The maximum period is 42 weeks. Doctors will not keep a pregnant woman longer, but will stimulate labor, if they don't start on their own.

Consultation with your doctor

Be sure to undergo consultations and examinations with a doctor. He will assign you a schedule for visits, blood donations and ultrasounds.. Of course, if you have any problems or severe discomfort, then make an appointment immediately. This can save your baby's life, and sometimes both of yours..

Toxicosis

This unpleasant phenomenon in most cases will accompany your first trimester of pregnancy. For some mothers, toxicosis is almost invisible- just some smells seem unpleasant, and familiar food can cause disgust. But it happens that toxicosis is very strong: accompanied by frequent vomiting and an allergic reaction on the body.

Unfortunately, every future
the mother will have to go through this condition. The body gets used to having a baby inside. If the toxicosis is very strong - any food makes you disgusted and vomits, you cannot stand smells - you should consult a doctor. This problem is now being resolved.

Keep in mind that this condition is normal during pregnancy.. It is best to try to move it - then it will be much easier. You shouldn't take pills to suppress symptoms. This can harm the baby, because some anti-vomiting and allergy medications can have a detrimental effect on its development. You just need to get through this time. Please discuss any medications with your doctor.- this will help protect you and your child from unpleasant consequences.

If you suddenly feel sad

Mood changes are also normal. Your hormonal levels have been established for years - but now they are in real revolt. Forming a baby is an important task for the body. The production of many substances and hormones changes. A woman may experience mood swings, depression condition, tearfulness, even aggression.

Your temperament matters here. Some people can easily hide their emotional reactions, while others are used to showing everything. With the birth of the child in you, all this will intensify. Well, if you are positive and cheerful, then your pregnancy can only go through positive emotions.

If a woman experiences severe depression during pregnancy, her behavior changes - this is difficult not only for her, but also for those around her. Now the last thing you need is quarrels with loved ones. For the sake of your baby, enter into a “contract” with your husband and parents for the entire 9 months: they will treat you with understanding and patience.

Preparing for the birth of your baby

In the last trimester, the child's intrauterine development slowly ends. He is getting ready to be born. At this time you need to be very careful and calm. Especially in recent weeks, try to spend a lot of time outdoors, eat fruit, follow the regime.

Now any of your harsh
movement or stress can trigger premature labor. Certainly, obstetrics has come a long way– now babies born at 7-8 months, have a great chance of survival and normal further development. But it's better to avoid problems. The best thing is to follow all the doctor’s instructions and give birth to the child on your due date, and not earlier. Take care of yourself, because all your emotions are now being transferred to your child.

Your pregnancy will be a happy time if the expectant mother is surrounded by love, care and help from her family. Now is not the time to be sad - you have a new world of discoveries ahead of you with your child.

Children are not very attractive after birth. Every mother waits for her baby to turn from an ugly duckling into a beautiful swan. Today, with the help of ultrasound, you can monitor the development of a child in the womb: the tadpole has arms and legs, its heart beats, its eyes open, and hair begins to grow. Such communication and knowledge about the development of the fetus in the womb is necessary not just out of interest, but to monitor the development of the fetus and the future mother.

All changes in the development of the fetus make themselves felt to the expectant mother, which affects her health and well-being. A competent mother, together with the doctor, monitoring the development of the child using ultrasound, will be able to avoid various diseases and unpleasant symptoms. The following information is available on the development of the fetus and the course of pregnancy.

How does the fetus develop?

The pregnancy period is divided into three semesters. The following knowledge will help mothers monitor the development of the fetus, their health and well-being. Each semester is responsible for a certain stage of the baby’s development. In each of them, the mother’s well-being changes.

Fetal development in the 1st trimester

The woman has no idea about her pregnancy, and the body is already adjusting to a different rhythm of life. 5-7 days after fertilization of the cell, the embryo attaches inside the uterus to the wall. The cell develops rapidly every seven days. This is how the embryo develops at lightning speed. First, the heart and blood vessels are formed. The brain develops rapidly and the head grows very quickly. Initially, the head of the future man looks like the head of a reptile. There are no arms or legs, it looks like a tadpole - a large head and tail. Later, the development of internal organs begins; ultrasound clearly shows the liver, lungs and kidneys. In the uterus, the fetus is covered with mucous membrane and by the end of the second month the placenta grows, which provides protection and nutrition. It will be the building material of the future baby, and will nourish the fetus in the womb until it is born.

Brain impulses are recorded at the end of the seventh and beginning of the eighth week of pregnancy. The tadpole gradually becomes similar to a human baby: a nose and mouth appear, arms and legs grow, and muscles are visible. The tail disappears. At eleven weeks he can already react and feel - light, warmth, noise. Teeth formation begins. The bones harden. At the twelfth week, the child completes its development as an embryo. Now this is not a tadpole with a tail, but a fruit that looks like a person. It's more interesting to watch him now. It moves more and develops even faster.

What sensations does a woman experience during the first three months of pregnancy? How before the menstrual cycle the work of the mammary glands increases, which causes their painful swelling. Hormonal disturbances occur - a woman becomes tearful and nervous for no reason. Early toxicosis occurs, more often it provokes nausea and vomiting in the morning. Women cannot tolerate many foods. Everyone has their own food intolerances. It is necessary to change the menu, which does not cause gag reflexes. It is necessary to switch to fractional meals - 5-6 times a day. The stomach will not be full and food will be easier to digest. Food should contain a lot of protein and carbohydrates. It is advisable to exclude fatty and fried foods. It is preferable to drink more vegetable and berry juices. When you wake up, do not jump up immediately, rise carefully and slowly. If nausea sets in, eat a slice of lemon or drink lemon juice.

Fetal development in the 2nd trimester

The fetus is very developed by this time, and the sex of the child can be determined - boy or girl. Hair growth begins. Further facial development occurs: the baby’s nose bridge appears, and his cheeks stand out noticeably. The child shows emotions - he may frown and squint. The little man's teeth are forming and his fingers are emerging. A pattern appears on the fingertips. The child constantly moves, bending his arms at the elbows and wrists. The sense organs are developing every day. The retina of the eye becomes sensitive. After 24 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus begins to develop its own immune system. Looks the same as at birth. But there are no fat deposits yet.

After three months, the pregnant woman’s condition improves. Nausea goes away. You can eat normally. Amazing moments await the mother when she first feels the baby’s first tremors. This is somewhere around the eighteenth week. Now these communications will continue until birth. At first the child moves little noticeably, but later he moves more actively. The abdomen begins to enlarge and protrude forward. The internal organs put pressure on the diaphragm and it’s a little uncomfortable to breathe.

The blood volume in the mother’s body increases, which helps provide the fetus with the necessary amount of oxygen. Gums may bleed due to the heavy load on the cardiovascular system. The work of the sebaceous and sweat glands increases, which contributes to excessive sweat production. Colostrum begins to be released from the nipples. This is a normal process and there is no need to be afraid. You can't squeeze it out. You just need to wipe your chest with a napkin. Pigment spots may appear in the area of ​​the nipples and abdomen. This is a temporary phenomenon, after childbirth they will go away the same way they appeared - unnoticed. Stretch marks may appear on the stomach, chest, thighs, and buttocks. They can appear due to rapid stretching of the skin during pregnancy and breastfeeding. By rubbing special cosmetics in, you can prevent the formation of stretch marks.

Fetal development in the 3rd trimester

During this trimester, your baby can hear your voice. Talk to him, praise him, tell him how much you love him and how you are looking forward to his birth. At the twenty-sixth week, the baby's eyes will open. He feels cramped inside the uterus, and he tries to expand his space by using his elbows and knees. The end of the twenty-eighth week - the baby completely fills the uterus, there is no free space. At the thirty-second week, the baby is breathing well, the diaphragm is constantly working. In the ninth month, residual formation of the nervous and urinary systems occurs. Starting from the thirty-fifth week, the baby rapidly gains weight. The fortieth week of pregnancy comes, and in preparation for birth, the baby lowers its head down and rests it on the pelvis. Closer to childbirth, it’s harder to walk, the stomach pulls down.

Get ready, your baby will be born soon!

Gain strength. Sleep should be longer and more complete. Before going to bed, take walks in the fresh air, take a shower, it will calm you down and relieve stress. To avoid getting anemia, you need to eat bran, it contains a lot of iron. Apricots and soy sauce also contain iron. It is necessary to constantly monitor the composition of the blood. Make sure your hemoglobin level does not decrease. The diet should include the following foods: oatmeal, prunes, black currants or jam, legumes. Eat more kiwi. A baby needs a lot of calcium to develop. If he doesn’t have enough of it, he takes it from his mother’s body. Then my mother’s teeth decay and fall out. Leg cramps appear at night. Eat more cottage cheese, persimmons, apples, kiwis, lentils, and bell peppers. To avoid constipation, eat prunes at night and drink more fluids. 60% of a pregnant woman’s diet is vegetables and fruits. You need to drink yogurt and eat wheat bran.

Pregnancy is a unique physiological process that allows parent cells to unite and form a new organism. The development of the fetus over the weeks of pregnancy is an interesting event that many mothers like to remember. Every day and week of pregnancy entails tremendous changes in the fetus and unforgettable impressions on the mother. From this article, expectant mothers will learn a lot of useful and interesting information: when the baby begins to lead an active lifestyle, hear her voice. It is no less interesting to know about changes in the weight of the fetus when the long-awaited ultrasound takes place to determine the sex of the baby.

Intrauterine development of the fetus is divided into two stages:

  1. The embryonic period lasts eight weeks after fertilization of the egg. At this time, there is an embryo inside the woman;
  2. the fetal period is counted from the ninth week until the moment of birth. At this stage of development, a woman already carries a fetus under her heart.

There is a real due date, which is counted from the moment of fertilization, and an obstetric one, which takes into account the first day of the last menstruation. Their difference is 14 days.

An exciting journey through the weeks of pregnancy

First

An important event occurred - fertilization. The zygote begins its formation. With every day and even hour, the number of embryonic cells increases through fragmentation and on the third day it consists of 8 cells, and on the fourth of 20. They form a small lump that moves to the uterus to begin full development and growth.

Second

The fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus. This process is called implantation, it is a critical moment for the development of the embryo. The mother's body is rebuilt, producing hormones to protect the embryo. There may be pink or brown discharge.

In the same week, the cells of the fertilized egg group:

  • the inner layer is responsible for the formation of the lungs, liver, and digestive organs;
  • the middle layer forms the bone and circulatory system;
  • the outer layer develops the nervous system, skin and hair, etc.

Third

This week precedes the development of the spinal cord and brain, the spine is formed.

At 20-21 days, we can say with confidence that conception was successful. The embryo consists of many cells, and a tiny heart begins to beat - the fetus is ready for intrauterine changes. The appearance of dark discharge signals the threat of miscarriage.

Fourth

The embryo reaches the size of a poppy seed - 1.5 mm. During this period, the laying of the foundations for internal organs begins, the heartbeat increases, the neural tube enters a new phase for the development of the brain, and limbs are born. Extraembryonic organs are formed: the yolk sac, which provides nutrition to the embryo, and the chorion, the future placenta.

Fifth

At this stage, the embryo is no larger than a sesame seed. The placenta, which connects to it through the umbilical cord, is responsible for its nutrition.

  • An ultrasound specialist can already determine how many children a woman will have.
  • The heart begins to divide into two chambers, changes in the reproductive system and brain appear.
  • On an ultrasound, you can see inaccurate facial features, slits for the mouth, and recesses for the eyes and nose.

Sixth

The heart, lungs and bronchial tree are improved. Facial features continue to emerge, and the phalanges of the fingers appear. The uterus enlarges and reaches the size of a plum.

Seventh

This is the time when future parents begin to add to the family album the first photograph of the child's intrauterine development. The heart is already four-chambered and there are 100-190 beats per minute - this is normal. The tail at the base of the spine disappears, the placenta fully supports nutrition and intrauterine processes. There is rapid development of the brain, the middle layer of the adrenal glands, and lymph nodes.

Eighth

The formation of vital organs and tissues is nearing completion. The size of the embryo is only 4 mm, but it already looks like a properly formed organism with protruding fingers, joints, ears, slits for the eyes and mouth. The nervous system is developed, the rudiments of the first teeth are formed.

The embryo begins to move, but this is imperceptible to the expectant mother.

Ninth

The embryo enters the fetal stage. He gained weight up to 2 grams and has a size of 22-30 mm. The cerebellum, the middle layer of the adrenal glands, lymph nodes, mammary glands, and genitals continue to develop over the weeks.

Enormous changes occur: the tiny creature moves its head, swims in the uterus, reacts to the mother’s movements and hears sounds, grabs the umbilical cord, and puts a finger in its mouth. The urinary system begins to work, the sense of smell develops, which will help the newborn find the breast.

Tenth

Weight – 5 g, size 30-40 mm. These days are full of events. The diaphragm is fully formed, the brain is actively developing, ossification of the skull and skeleton occurs, the membranes between the fingers disappear. The liver begins to secrete bile, the intestines contract.

Eleventh

The baby's weight is 8 grams, body length is 5 cm. The formation of blood vessels is nearing completion, the heart is working correctly, the placenta becomes denser and creates excellent protection for the emerging organism. The head is still large, but its transformations occur every day; the liver occupies 10% of the entire body.

Twelfth

The first trimester is at its final stage. The tiny creature has increased significantly and weighs about 9 cm. The rudiments of baby teeth are formed. The digestive system, bones and muscles continue their transformations. The little man is able to smile, sleeps little and has his own taste preferences. The immune system becomes stronger. The belly of the expectant mother is rounded.

Thirteenth

The baby's weight reaches 15-25 grams, height is 10 cm, the heart beats 150 times per minute, and 30 liters of blood are pumped. The cerebral cortex becomes more complex, and the sweat glands come to work. The fetus ingests nutrients and spits out liquid, exercising the lungs. The mouth gap opens periodically.

The bone tissue hardens, the skin becomes multi-layered, but it is still transparent, the eyelids are closed. The placenta independently supplies oxygen and removes waste.

Fourteenth

The intrauterine baby is becoming more and more active. Her weight is 35-45 grams, her height is 11 cm. The skeleton is being formed, the diaphragm is preparing for the first cry, the child has a Rh factor and blood type. The thyroid gland develops, the body prepares to digest proteins and begin to store fat. The intestines produce the first stool, which consists of bile.

The eyes take their assigned place, the facial features take the correct shape. The uterus becomes heavier, its weight is 250 grams.

Fifteenth

The size of the fruit resembles an orange, weighs 70 grams, and height is 13 cm. Most of the body is covered with hair fluff, which retains heat. When the child gains a sufficient amount of fatty tissue, heat exchange will be involved in the process, and then the excess hairs will fall off.

The nails are already formed and lines are being drawn at the fingertips. The child grimaces, the sucking reflex is well developed. The genitals continue to form.

Sixteenth

The baby's height is 14 cm. All components appeared in the blood. The neck is aligned, the liver takes on the function of digestion. The formation of permanent teeth is underway, replacing baby teeth. The skin is still transparent and the blood vessels are visible. The baby moves all parts of the body, which has a positive effect on brain development.

Seventeenth

The man’s height is already more than 15 cm, his weight exceeds the weight of the placenta. The neck has become stronger, and the head now turns 180 degrees. There is an active accumulation of fat on the body, the bronchi are almost fully developed. The child begins to move his eyes. He is already able to protect himself from infections that may come from his mother.

Emotional and mental development is underway, so a pregnant woman is strictly forbidden to experience stress, worry, or be nervous.

Eighteenth

The child's inner ear is formed, the retina of the eye gains sensitivity, the blink reflex appears, but the eyelids are still drooping, and the rudiments of molars are being formed. The baby is responding better to voices, so you don’t need to be shy about talking to your tummy.

Nineteenth

The fruit can be compared to a small zucchini. The length reaches 16-17 cm, and the weight is 300 g. The skin is protected by vernix lubrication from amniotic fluid. There is a leap in development, movements become obvious and correct. The head rotates and maintains its position for a long time. The baby reacts well to factors from the outside world and responds to them with strong blows.

Twentieth

The tiny creature has already reached 20 cm. It begins to show its dissatisfaction with the mother’s incorrect postures or loud sounds, and can distinguish the time of day.

Intervertebral discs appear, a layer of epidermis is formed, movements become more complicated, and the mother feels them perfectly.

Twenty-one

The child gains weight up to 360 grams, reaching a length of 26.5 cm. The digestive system is active, the fetus swallows amniotic fluid, and the spleen begins to function. Bones and muscles are strengthened. Taste receptors are fully formed on the tongue. Boys develop testicles, and girls develop a vagina.

Twenty-second

The baby is gaining more and more weight. Now her weight is 500 grams, and her height is 28 cm. The lungs are fully developed, the brain reaches a weight of 100 grams.

Premature birth at 22 weeks can occur successfully, because modern equipment is available to care for such babies.

Twenty-third

The baby’s weight increases, and the uterus also grows, creating discomfort for the mother. There is a wrinkled appearance of the skin, and fatty tissues grow. Arms and legs lengthen, nails and hair grow.

The boys' genitals move down to the right place. It’s impossible to believe, but such a small creature is capable of dreaming. The number of movements reaches 10 times a day.

Twenty-four

The height of the little man is 30 cm, he may already be hiccupping due to improper ingestion of amniotic fluid or hypoxia, you need to notify the gynecologist about this.

The child often changes position. He no longer has enough space in the placenta and begins to push and push more persistently.

Twenty-fifth

The future family member has a body length of 33 cm and weighs 700 grams. The skin gains density and color. The lungs are training, preparing for the first breath, the brain begins to work with the adrenal glands. Muscles appear.

Weakness and dizziness in the mother mean signs of anemia, you need to see a doctor.

Twenty-sixth

Weight reaches 750 grams, height 35-36 cm. The little creature acquires individual features. The jolts become painful for the mother, and close people can trace the baby’s movements.

The brain produces the necessary hormones, and hearing becomes more refined. The lungs are filled with a special substance that will help them not to stick together at the moment of the first breath and cry.

Twenty-seventh

The weight of the baby increases to one kilogram. The endocrine system begins to produce new functions, the amount of subcutaneous fat returns to normal. The substance that promotes the full expansion of the lungs has been completely developed.

Twenty-eighth

The baby already weighs more than one kilogram and is 38 cm tall. His skin becomes smooth because adipose tissue increases.

The pupillary membrane disappears, allowing the eyes to open. The baby becomes cramped, but this does not affect ontogenesis.

Twenty-ninth

The creature inside the mother weighs 1,300 kg and is 40 cm tall. It is already preparing for birth. The nasal passages are freed from mucus, the amount of vernix lubrication and fluff on the body are reduced. The child receives a sufficient amount of antibodies from the parent’s blood.

Thirtieth

This is the period when the future family member is growing rapidly, thermoregulation is developed, the liver accumulates iron, and the eyes open completely. The child assumes a position for a favorable birth.

Thirty-one

Each week is characterized by an increase in fetal weight of 300-400 grams. At the 31st week of pregnancy, the baby’s weight is 1.5 kg, length – 41 cm. The pancreas reproduces the production of insulin, the liver takes on the job of cleansing the blood of toxins, the brain makes up 1/4 of an adult’s organ.

In boys, the testicles “reach” the scrotum, in girls the clitoris appears.

Thirty-second

The baby is growing, but his skull is still soft, his internal organs are fully functioning. The body produces immunoglobulins, which reproduce the baby’s protection from bacteria and microbes in the first year of life.

Thirty-third

The baby lies down in the fetal position because there is less and less space in the womb. It takes a lot of calcium and iron from the mother’s body.

Thirty-four

The baby is preparing to meet his parents. His weight exceeds 2 kg, height is 47 cm. Active training of the gastrointestinal tract takes place. The woman begins to feel false signs of contractions.

Thirty-fifth

The fruit weighs about 3 kg, the body length reaches 48 cm. The shoulders are rounded, fat appears. The child is at the birth canal and takes the appropriate position.

Thirty-sixth

The head center coordinates the work of thermoregulation, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. After the birth of the child, they will immediately begin their work. A pregnant woman is worried about shortness of breath.

Thirty-seventh

The baby's weight is 2,950 kg, length is 48-49 cm. Breathing, movements, and heart activity are improved.

Thirty-eighth

The new person has not yet been born, but weighs more than 3 kg, and is already 50 cm tall. All organs are fully developed and function well.

Thirty-ninth

Weight – 3.5 kg, height – 51 cm. The stomach is filled with enzymes that will help the child process food. The little person perfectly senses sounds and light, the sucking reflex is developed.

Fortieth

The family is waiting for a new addition, and it will happen soon. The weight of “little happiness” is 3.5 – 4 kg, height – 51-54 cm.

The stomach drops significantly. The mucus plug and amniotic fluid recede, and contractions begin. After a certain time, the long-awaited baby will be born. Specialists are assessing his condition and monitoring his health for several days.

So the long expedition to study the weekly development of the fetus has come to an end. In order for your pregnancy to be easy and successful, you need to listen to your doctor’s recommendations and monitor your health. There is only joy and happiness ahead.

Film about the development of the fetus in the womb

The appearance of a child in the family- a desired and very exciting moment for which young parents begin to prepare as soon as they learn about pregnancy. Therefore, information regarding fetal development by month of pregnancy is always very important and informative. In addition, the birth of a new life and the development of a little person will also be interesting to people who are not yet thinking about procreation, since nature provides for a simply unique process. It consists of three stages: first, second and third trimesters, during which the formation of the child occurs.


First months of pregnancy- the most important for the further development of the fetus, since right now the fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus and slowly begins to turn into a child.
Whether it will take hold or not, and how correctly the further formation of all the little person’s systems will proceed, depends on a number of factors. Let's try to understand the features of this process week by week.

First week (days 1-7)

We can talk about the beginning of pregnancy when fertilization of a female egg by a male cell (sperm) occurs; they talk about this in biology lessons at school, but what happens next is not studied in detail.

Most often, this process occurs in the fallopian tube (in its ampullary section), but within a couple of hours after the “meeting,” the fertilized egg quickly begins to divide, and then descends through the fallopian tube into the uterine cavity. This entire process takes approximately five days.
As a result, a multicellular organism appears in the uterus, somewhat reminiscent of a blackberry (in Latin “morus”), from which the embryo at this stage received the name “morula”.

On seventh day it penetrates the uterine wall, and the villi of its cells (external) connect with the blood vessels of the female organ, which later form the placenta.

The remaining outer cells become the basis for the development of the membranes of the embryo and its umbilical cord. As for the internal cells, they become the beginning of the internal organs of a small person.

Important! When the egg attaches to the wall of the uterus (implantation), a woman may experience bleeding from the vagina, but this is a completely normal phenomenon and there is no need to worry.

Second week (8-14 days)

The cells of the embryo continue to grow into the mucous membrane of the uterus, after which not only the placenta, but also the umbilical cord and the neural tube begin to form - very important component, from which the nervous system of a new person is subsequently formed.

During this period there should be a complete absence any heavy bleeding, because their presence indicates the possible presence of a disease, for example, endometrial hyperplasia or impaired ovarian function, but a woman may also begin menstruation, which indicates an unsuccessful attempt to become pregnant.

True, it is too early to talk about a full-fledged miscarriage, since the fetus has not yet become one, but for now is only an egg.

Third week (15-21 days)

One of the most difficult and important periods, since right now all the important systems and organs of the unborn child begin to form, the respiratory, circulatory, nervous, digestive and excretory systems are formed, and in the place where the fetal head will soon form, a wide plate appears - the basis for further formation and development of the brain.
Important Feature this week is the beginning of the embryo's heartbeat. Now we can say with confidence that conception has occurred, although the possibility of miscarriage cannot be ruled out.

Did you know? In the third week of pregnancy, the body weight of the unborn baby is only 2-3 mcg, and the length of the “little body” is from 0.15 to 0.2 mm.

Fourth week (22-28 days)

The laying and formation of fetal organs continues, from which the intestines, liver and lungs can be distinguished. The performance of the still tiny heart is increasing more and more.

At the end of the first month During pregnancy, folds of the body are formed in the embryo, and a spine (notochord) is formed, dividing the embryo into two halves with a clear separation of the limbs. On the head of the unborn baby, pits begin to form, which will later become eyes.

Fifth week (29-35 days)

According to the pregnancy calendar, it means the beginning of embryo development in the second month (obstetric).

At that time in a little man (his height from the crown to the coccyx varies between 1.5-2.5 mm), all organs of the digestive (pancreas and liver), respiratory (lungs, larynx, trachea), genital (formation of the precursors of the reproductive organs) begin to take shape cells), nervous (formation of parts of the brain) systems, and also the further development of sensory organs - the eyes and inner ear.

Besides, in the fifth week The umbilical cord is already noticeable and the baby’s limbs continue to form, and the rudiments of marigolds are formed on them. On the front part the nasal cavity and upper lip are already visible.

Many women at this stage clearly feel pregnancy, because the uterus sharply enlarges (outwardly this is not noticeable at all) and puts pressure on the bladder. appear first signs of toxicosis and increased sensitivity to various odors.

Sixth week (36-42 days)

By the sixth week, the unborn baby reaches a length of 4-9 mm. His heart beats very quickly, although it is still far from a full-fledged organ - no atrium. The placenta is being formed, which is just beginning to perform its direct functions, and blood circulation with the embryo has not yet been established.

Continue actively form all parts of the brain, and if you make an encephalogram, you can record the signals sent by the tiny brain. The formation of facial muscles also begins, the eyes of the embryo become more pronounced and are not covered by eyelids.

Upper limbs lengthen slightly, while the lower ones are still in their infancy. In the digestive system, sections of the gastrointestinal tract (small and large intestines, as well as the stomach) begin to form.

The pancreas and liver almost completely complete their formation.

Seventh week (43-49 days)

The length of the embryo body is approximately 10-13 mm. The placenta becomes much thicker, and the baby and mother are already firmly connected by the umbilical cord, through which the uteroplacental circulation is finally formed.

It is noteworthy that the little man still there is a tail, which will soon disappear, and the baby’s legs remain like small fins, while the upper limbs can already bend at the elbows, the rudiments of the fingers begin to be visible. The shoulders and forearms are clearly visible.


Fetal eyes covered with eyelids that protect them from drying out, and the child sometimes opens his mouth slightly. The nose and nasal fold are formed, two paired elevations appear on the sides of the head: from them the auricles then develop.

It was at this time a mucus plug forms, which will close the cervix and protect the baby from harmful environmental factors.

Eighth week (50-56 days)

The baby's body gradually straightens and its length (measured from the tailbone to the crown) corresponds to 20-21 mm (by the end of the week). Continue their formation basic body systems: digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory (especially lungs), urinary and reproductive (in boys, testicles begin to develop).

The sweat and salivary glands are still at the stage of formation. The baby’s face also becomes more familiar to an adult: the eyes are well defined, the nasal cavity and ears are formed, and the process of lip formation is completed.

And the head and all the limbs begin grow rapidly, ossification of the long bones of the legs and arms also occurs. On an ultrasound, you can notice small fingers with no membranes between them. The eighth week is the period of formation of the optic nerve.

The embryo begins to move, but due to its small size, the woman does not feel these movements in any way.

Important! It is in the eighth week that the embryonic stage comes to an end and the embryo is already called a fetus.

Ninth week (57-63 days)

The length of the fruit is in the range of 22-31 mm. The blood vessels of the placenta continue to improve, the system of bones and muscles intensively develops, in particular, the joints of the legs and arms are formed.

Peculiar changes are also noted in the functioning of the cardiovascular system: the heart is already capable of making 150 beats (in 1 minute) and pumping blood through the blood vessels. The brain is still actively growing and developing, the structure of the cerebellum is emerging, and the pituitary gland is being formed.

Also The adrenal glands begin to actively develop, while producing hormones important for the body, lymph nodes develop. At the same time, cranial, spinal and intervertebral nerves appear.

In the unborn child The cartilage tissue also improves, which at this stage is expressed in the design of the auricles, the cartilage of the larynx and the formation of the vocal cords.

At nine weeks the fetus looks like a small pea pod, which through the umbilical cord removes its waste products into the mother’s body.

Tenth week (64-70 days)

The fruit (from crown to tailbone) has already reached a length of 35-40 mm. The most interesting change is the disappearance of the ponytail and the formation of the buttocks, but this, of course, is not the only important change.

Further, the nervous system (already divided into central and peripheral) of the fetus is improved, which can now perform not only chaotic movements, but also shudder in response to a stimulus (the first reflexes are formed).


Eg If the baby accidentally touches the wall of the uterus, he may turn his head, bend or straighten his arms and legs, or even be pushed to the side. At the same time, the development of the diaphragm is coming to an end, which as a result will be directly involved in the breathing process.

With high speed the brain is formed and in one minute up to 250 thousand neurons can be created in it.

Eleventh week (71-77 days)

The body of the unborn child at this time still remains disproportionate: the large head stands out strongly against the background of the small body, and the arms are longer than the legs, bent at all joints and located in a tucked state. By the end of the eleventh week, a fetus measuring 4-5 cm is in the woman’s womb.

At this time, the placenta already fully performs all the functions assigned to it and provides the little person with a sufficient amount of oxygen and micronutrients. In addition, it is she who pushes metabolic products and carbon dioxide out.
The further formation of the baby’s eyes is also noticeable, because the iris appears, which will ultimately determine his eye color.

Appear in the fetal blood first lymphocytes, directly involved in the formation of immunity.

Did you know? At this stage of intrauterine development, the unborn child's liver makes up 10% of his entire body. The intestines also make their first movements (something like peristalsis).

According to experts, at the 11th week the formation of the little person’s sense of smell also occurs.

Twelfth week (78-84 days)

Fruit size(from the crown to the coccyx) approximately within 50-60 mm, its genital organs (male or female) are actively developing and the digestive system is improving. As for the latter, the most noticeable is the lengthening of the intestine and its loop arrangement (exactly like in an adult).

The child is already can swallow amniotic fluid, clench and unclench your fingers, as well as grab your thumb with your mouth and actively suck it. In addition to red blood cells, leukocytes (white blood cells) also appear in the baby’s blood, and single respiratory movements can also be recorded.

Of course, before the moment of birth, the fetus is not yet able to breathe on its own and its lungs do not function properly, but it is quite capable of performing rhythmic movements chest.

Did you know? Starting from the 12th week, unique patterns - fingerprints - are formed on the pads of the tiny person's fingers.

Thirteenth week (85-91 days)

Future baby size reaches approximately 70-75 mm, and the proportions of his body begin to actively change: the lower, upper limbs and torso become longer, and the size of the head does not seem so large.

All these changes the expectant mother can see on the monitor when undergoing an ultrasound scan, especially knowing in advance about the stages of pregnancy and the developmental features of her child week by week.
In addition, week 13 is also significant as the beginning formation of baby teeth, which are located under the lower and upper jaws.

By the way, there are crumbs in the intestines the first villi appear, which after birth will begin to take a direct part in the process of digestion and promotion of food. The pancreas produces the first insulin, and the vocal apparatus is also actively forming.

The baby’s emotional sphere also develops, which learns to respond to sounds, silence, light and shadow, heat and cold, becoming more and more awake.

Fourteenth week (92-98 days)

By the end of the 14th week, the fetal body becomes longer and is already 8-9 cm, and its proportions take on an increasingly familiar appearance. The first hairs are already visible on the head, although they are still quite thin and do not have a specific color.

The surface of the body is covered with sparse vellus hairs.

The bones and muscles of the fetus develop and improve, the first ribs appear, and the development of the bladder, ureters and kidneys, which actively secrete urine that mixes with the amniotic fluid, is completed.
Swallowing amniotic fluid, a child can determine its taste by reacting to sweets with rapid swallowing reflexes or weak sips to bitter ones.

My work begins cells of the pancreas and pituitary gland. In boys, the prostate gland actively develops, and the ovaries of girls are located in the pelvic region.

If you do an ultrasound on quality equipment, then with a high degree of probability it will be possible to find out the gender of your baby.

If we look at the stages of pregnancy in detail by week, then starting from the fifteenth we can talk about the second trimester of pregnancy. Before this time, the fetus has already strengthened in the uterus, all its main systems and organs are almost formed, which reduces the risk of unforeseen situations.
However, quite Expectant mothers should not relax, since there are still many important stages of the baby’s development ahead.

Fifteenth week (99-105 days)

With the beginning second trimester, the fetus weighs approximately 70-75 g, and its length (still measured from the crown to the tailbone) is 10 cm. Despite the fact that the child’s head is large, the growth of his limbs and torso begins to outstrip it.

At the same time, if desired, you can find out the blood type of the little man, and he also begins to excrete original feces (meconium).

However, the most important process in week 15 is the beginning of the formation of the cerebral cortex, which will take place throughout the fourth month.

It is also impossible not to remember activation sweat and sebaceous glands.

Sixteenth week (106-112 days)

At this time, the baby’s body length is about 12 cm, and the weight increases to 100 g. At 112 days after conception, the fetus is considered fully formed, since it already has all the systems and organs.

However, the fetal skin is still quite thin, and subcutaneous fat is almost completely absent, which is why blood vessels are clearly visible. Eyebrows and eyelashes are clearly visible on the face, and nails are partially formed, covering only part of the nail plate.
If we consider the baby With the help of modern ultrasound technologies, you can see how he frowns, breaks into a fleeting smile and makes grimaces. The child is already holding his neck and is able to turn his head, and his ears and eyes are getting closer and closer to their proper place.

Seventeenth week (days 113-119)

Seventeenth week of pregnancy begins with a fetal weight of 120-150 g and a body length of 14-15 cm. The baby’s skin is still as thin, but fatty tissue is intensively formed under it. Baby teeth continue to develop and begin to become covered with dentin.

The reaction to sound stimuli becomes more pronounced and many experts claim that from the beginning of the 17th week the fetus begins to hear (sharp sounds force it to increase activity).
Also the location of the fetus changes: the head rises and takes an almost vertical position, the arms are bent at the elbow, and the fingers are clenched into a fist. The child’s immune system is activated, as a result of which interferon and immunoglobulin are produced in the body. This allows the little man to protect himself from the mother's infections.

At the same time The small heart, vigorously pumping blood, also completes its development. There is also an opinion that the 17th week is critical for the mental development of the baby, therefore both mother and father need to contact him more often, talking affectionately.

Eighteenth week (120-126 days)

At this stage, we can say that the second trimester is approaching the middle. The fruit reached 20 cm in length (from the coccyx to the crown) and gained up to 200 g of weight. His limbs (both upper and lower) are already fully formed, they have phalanges of fingers and even prints.

Continue their development brain and immune system, hearing improves, and a pronounced reaction to light appears. The fat layer is actively formed and even the rudiments of molars are laid.


If this is not the first pregnancy for a woman, then with a high degree of probability she will feel the first movements of his baby. The norm is approximately 10 light tremors per day.

Nineteenth week (127-133 days)

At that time we can talk about a significant leap in fetal development. Movements are more orderly, the respiratory system is improved, and the body is covered with vernix lubrication. The baby's weight reaches 250-300 g, and the length of the fetus varies around 22-23 cm.

At the same time, the size of the head for the first time begins to lag behind the indicators of the torso and limbs, which are actively lengthening.


The pituitary gland, gonads, adrenal glands, pancreas, thyroid and parathyroid glands work intensively. The composition of the blood also changes greatly; in addition to leukocytes and erythrocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes also appear in it.

On this term The baby's kicks are felt not only by the expectant mother, but also by the father if he places his hand on his stomach.

Twentieth week (134-140 days)

The length of the baby's body increases to 25 cm, and the weight is already about 340 g. The skin remains the same thin and covered with vellus hairs, often remaining until birth.

However, subcutaneous fat begins to develop more intensively.
Also at 20 weeks During intrauterine development, the baby develops a blinking reflex, coordination of movements improves and facial expressions become more pronounced.

Having a regular stethoscope, you can calmly listen to the rhythm of his heart, which becomes more stable.

Twenty-first week (days 141-147)

When the fetus reaches 21 weeks of intrauterine development, its growth is measured from the heels, and not from the tailbone, as was previously the case. Now it is approximately 26.7 cm, with the baby weighing about 360-380 g.

Every day subcutaneous adipose tissue is getting bigger, the fetus even develops folds on its body. The digestive system begins to work more actively and the fetus constantly swallows amniotic fluid.

Bone and muscle tissue continue to strengthen, and the spleen also joins the actively working endocrine glands.

Despite his considerable growth, the baby still feels free in the womb of his mother and can occupy almost any position.

Twenty-second week (148-154 days)

Little man size at this stage it increases to 28 cm, and the weight will be in the range of 450-500 g. The head becomes proportional to the body and limbs, and the legs are almost constantly in a bent position.

The child’s spine is characterized by the presence of all ligaments and joints, but the bones continue to strengthen.
The active development of the nervous system is observed: the baby begins to be interested in his face, legs and arms, he brings his fingers to his mouth with interest and tilts his head.

The heart is significant increases in size, since the cardiovascular system is still being improved.

Important! If for some reason the pregnancy is terminated at 22 weeks, modern medical technologies allow such a child to be born, since it is considered fully viable.

Twenty-third week (148-154 days)

In addition to further development of all main systems and organs a small person, who, by the way, at 23 weeks weighs 500 g and has a height of 28 to 30 cm, pigment begins to be synthesized in the skin, giving the skin a bright red color.

Due to the thin subcutaneous fat layer, the fetus appears very thin and strongly wrinkled, and lubricant is mainly concentrated in the folds of the body.
The frequency of respiratory movements increases and is now equal to 50-60 times per 1 minute and the swallowing reflex is still well developed, as a result of which the child swallows part of the amniotic fluid.

Interesting that even such a baby can have hiccups, which a woman feels as rhythmic movements for a couple of minutes.

Moreover, some scientists believe that from this time on, baby can dream, since it was possible to record REM sleep phases in the fetus.

Twenty-fourth week (162-168 days)

The fruit, which was asymmetrical until recently, is increasingly becomes like a child. There is still a little adipose tissue, so the weight gain is not too noticeable and the baby weighs 600 g (height is approximately 32 cm).

It should also be noted that it is at week 24 that the small body begins to independently produce growth hormone, allowing it to grow faster in the future.

The fetus has already taken up almost all the space in the uterine cavity, but can still turn over.
By the end of the sixth month The sense organs have developed well and vision begins to develop (when the abdomen is illuminated with bright light, the baby immediately squints his eyes tightly and turns away).

Completes its development and respiratory system, the bronchial tree and lungs are already fully formed, covered with a special substance - suffracant (prevents the capillary sacs from drying out and closing when inhaling air after birth).

Sweaty and greasy glands are also distinguished by more streamlined work than at previous stages of development, but the main thing for the mother is that it is at this time between her and the future baby an emotional connection is formed: fear, anxiety, melancholy and other negative emotions cause similar feelings in a child.

Twenty-fifth week (169-175 days)

The child grows to 30-34 cm and already weighs 650-700 g. The skin becomes more elastic, there are fewer folds, but it still remains thin and has a large number of capillaries, coloring it reddish.

The front part is even more shaped and the eyes, eyelids, eyelashes, eyebrows, lips, cheeks and ears are already clearly visible.


There is a rapid development of bone marrow - now the main component in hematopoiesis.

Also observed important processes during lung formation: alveoli appear, which before birth are in a “deflated” state (without air), and from the side of the reproductive system, the appearance of the testicles (in boys) or vagina (in girls) is noticeable.

Twenty-sixth week (176-182 days)

The height of the little man at this stage of his development is approximately 36 cm, with a weight of about 750-760 g. Continues to increase muscle mass and fat layer, bones are strengthened and permanent teeth develop further.
In general, the child has already acquired all his personality traits: eyelashes and eyebrows have taken their places, ears have taken shape and now they protrude slightly from the head.

The lungs take their final shape and take their proper place, that is, the child is now completely ready breathe on your own after its birth. The eyes also begin to open, the fetus already recognizes the voices of its parents.

The last stage of pregnancy, which means that you will soon meet your baby and hold him in your arms.

You have already learned how a child grows in the previous 26 weeks, that by this time all the main systems and organs are formed, but the process of its full development during pregnancy is not yet completed, a lot of interesting things await you.

Twenty-seventh week (183-189 days)

At this time The next phase of active growth of a small life begins. The baby's weight is already 850 g with a body length of 37 cm.

All organs of the endocrine and other systems (including the pancreas and thyroid glands, as well as the pituitary gland) are functioning well, and the fetus itself is very active (but can still move freely into the uterine cavity).

At the same time its own metabolism begins to develop. The skin becomes lighter, and underneath it the muscle tissue increases more and more.

Twenty-eighth week (190-196 days)

The baby's weight has reached 950 g, and his length is 38 cm. Fatty tissue continues to accumulate, vellus hair begins to fall out (only on the back and shoulders). Eyebrows, hair on the head and eyelashes acquire a darker color.
The baby opens his eyes much more often, but the cartilages of the ears and nose remain just as soft, and the nails do not reach the edge of the phalanx of the fingers.

Remarkable that it is at this time that one hemisphere of the brain begins to work more actively: if the right hemisphere, the child will be left-handed, and if the left hemisphere will be right-handed.

Twenty-ninth week (197-203 days)

The child is increasingly preparing to enter the big world: The immune system copes with its functions quite well, and the body’s heat regulation also improves its functioning. The baby's weight is now about 1200 g, and his height reaches 39 cm.

Such dimensions significantly reduce the free space in the uterus and all movements of the fetus are expressed in infrequent pushes with arms and legs.
The organs and systems of the small organism continue to improve; for example, up to 500 g of urine is excreted by the kidneys every day.

falls on the cardiovascular system, although the blood circulation of a little person is not yet the same as the blood circulation of a newborn.

With the beginning of the 29th week, the amount of vernix lubrication begins to decrease, and the skin becomes increasingly lighter and smoother.

Thirtieth week (204-210 days)

The child’s weight continues to grow and reaches 1300-1350 g, although the length of the body remains approximately the same - 38-39 cm. Fatty tissue continues its increased accumulation, which increasingly straightens the folds in the skin.

Lack of space in the womb forces the baby to take a certain position: curl up and cross his legs and arms.
Also continue alveoli develop, surfactant is actively produced, that is, the child is preparing to start breathing independently.

Brain development is characterized by the appearance of a large number of convolutions and an increase in the area of ​​the cortex.

Nerve cells function, fibers are formed, around which a protective myelin sheath appears.

The child's liver accumulates iron, thanks to which the baby will be supplied with blood cells throughout the first year of his life.

Thirty-first week (211-217 days)

The baby, who by this time already weighs 1500-1700 g and has a height of 40 cm, has significantly changes in wakefulness and sleep patterns.

Motor activity decreases, although the child kicks well while awake. In addition, these processes are accompanied by the closing or opening of fully formed eyes.

Did you know? At birth, the iris of all children has the same blue color and only after some time begins to change.

The volume of the brain during this period is 25% of the volume of this organ in an adult.

A connection is established between nerve cells, and the nerve fibers continue to be “overgrown” with protective sheaths. Further formation of all organs and systems continues.

Thirty-second week (218-224 days)

If at the previous stages the child has not yet turned upside down, then this usually happens at this stage.

Now the baby weighs approximately 1800 g with a height of 42 cm, and therefore there is less and less space for him. Active accumulation of fatty tissue smoothing the skin.

The internal organs are still improving: the endocrine system secretes hormones, and the lungs accumulate surfactant. In addition, the child begins to produce a special hormone that promotes the appearance of estrogen in the mother’s body, which activates the process of milk production for feeding.

On the head, the baby's hair becomes thicker, but still retains softness.

Thirty-third week (225-231 days)

The lungs are fully formed and in case of early birth at this stage the baby will be able to breathe without assistance. He weighs approximately 2 kg and is 43-44 cm tall.

All parts of the body become more proportional in relation to each other, and systems and organs continue to improve (for example, the mass of the heart increases and the tone of blood vessels increases). The position of the baby's body is fixed in the uterus (he can turn his head or butt down), usually after that he will no longer turn over.

Thirty-fourth week (232-238 days)

The baby’s body weight has already reached 2-2.5 kg, and the body length is at the level of 44-45 cm. Despite the fact that he is practically no different from a newborn, the body is still continuing to improve all its parts.

Cranial bones remain just as soft and mobile, which is necessary for unhindered passage of the birth canal at birth. Increased hair growth begins on the head and it can even change color.
Also worth noting intensive bone strengthening, for which the fetus is forced to take calcium from the mother’s body. Constant swallowing of amniotic fluid by a child stimulates the functioning of the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.

Thirty-fifth week (239-245 days)

The baby gains 25-35 g daily, which is why the weight can vary significantly and by the end of the week it will be 2200-2700 g (with a height of 46 cm). All internal organs continue to develop, and fatty tissue still accumulates, thanks to which the child becomes well-fed.

There is already a fairly large amount in the fetal intestine meconium, which usually goes away 6-7 hours after birth. The baby is actively training to suck the mother's breast - he sucks fingers (even on his feet) and swallows amniotic fluid.

Thirty-sixth week (246-252 days)

Weight and height The already almost fully formed child is now very different and can range from 2 to 3 kg and from 46 to 48 cm. The adipose tissue is already quite well developed, the skin color acquires a light shade, and wrinkles and folds completely disappear.

Unlike other bones, the cranial bones remain just as soft and have so-called movable "fontanelles". All organs and systems completely ready for his work in the big world.

Thirty-seventh week (254-259 days)

The fruit reaches 48-49 cm in length, and its weight is within 3 kg, with a possible slight deviation from this value. The skin has already brightened well and thickened, and the fat layer increases daily by 14-15 g per day.
The cartilages of the ears and nose become denser and more elastic, maturation ends lungs and digestive system. From this moment on, even if labor begins, it will no longer be considered premature.

Thirty-eighth week (260-266 days)

It is likely that at this stage your baby will be born, but even if this does not happen, then it’s okay if he grows a little more in the womb.

No special processes at 38 weeks already not happening, baby only gaining weight. All his organs and systems are already fully developed and fully functioning.

Thirty-ninth week (267-273 days)

Normally, two weeks before the expected due date, baby starts to go down, increasingly pressing against the bones of the pelvis. It is already fully matured and the placenta begins to gradually age, as a result of which all metabolic processes in it significantly deteriorate.
Baby's weight increases daily by 30-35 g per day, which is accompanied by a complete change in the proportions of his body: the shoulder girdle and chest are already well developed, the tummy is rounded and the limbs have become longer.

Ongoing development of the child's central nervous system, although this process will continue after his birth. During this period, amniotic fluid is renewed every 3 hours, although its total amount is significantly reduced.

Fortieth week (274-280 days)

The fortieth week is considered last stage of pregnancy, but in fact, the child may appear either earlier or later than the due date.
At that time all indicators of its development fully correspond to the characteristics of a newborn baby. Body weight ranges from 2.5 to 4 kg or even higher, and height averages 49-52 cm.

There are intermittent contractions of the uterus, which the woman feels as episodic nagging pain in the lower part. The baby's skull bones are still soft and pliable.
Having gone through all stages of its development, a little man appears in front of you, very similar to his parents, but how he grows up depends only on you.

After fertilization, intrauterine development of the fetus begins - a long, months-long process of forming a new life. As the fetus develops in the womb, the activity of the entire female body changes; a continuous and very active exchange of substances occurs between the expectant mother and the fetus. The psychological behavior of women also changes.

How the fetus develops in the womb (with photos and videos)

After implantation, the period of intrauterine development of the fetus begins, during which the rudiments of its organs and systems are laid. During pregnancy, a fertilized egg is formed in the uterus, in which first the embryo develops, and then the fetus, and the placenta. The fetus is connected to the placenta by the umbilical cord.

The fetal membranes perform a protective function, participate in metabolic processes, and the formation of the immune system.

As can be seen in the photo of intrauterine development of the fetus, the chorion (villous membrane) initially has no vessels, but at the end of the first month they appear:

At the time of implantation, the trophoblast is already capable of producing a small amount of a specific pregnancy hormone - chorionic gonadotropin, with the help of which the vital activity of the entire woman’s body changes, the function of the corpus luteum of pregnancy in the ovary is preserved, the diagnosis of early pregnancy is based on the determination of the hormones of which in the blood and urine.

The decidua during childbirth after the birth of the fetus is rejected and expelled from the uterine cavity along with others.

And as the fetus develops, the placenta (child’s place, from the Latin placenta - “cake”) grows - the most important organ through which the process of breathing, nutrition and excretion of fetal metabolic products occurs. In terms of its importance, it performs the functions of the respiratory, digestive, and fetal excretion organs.

The placenta is formed from part of the decidua and overgrown chorionic villi. As pregnancy progresses, the number of villi increases, which leads to an increase in the contact surface between the blood flow of the mother and the unborn child. In the maternal part of the placenta, depressions are formed in which the villi are immersed and in which the maternal blood that washes them circulates. This blood does not coagulate and does not mix with the fetal blood flowing through the vessels passing inside the villi.

As the fetus develops, there is a constant active exchange of substances between the mother's blood and the blood of the fetus. From the maternal blood, oxygen, nutrients, in a word, everything that is necessary for development and normal functioning, enters the blood of the embryo and then the fetus. At the same time, metabolic products and carbon dioxide enter the mother’s blood, i.e., everything that needs to be removed from the developing organism. In addition to the function of external respiration, excretory function, and delivery of nutrients, the placenta performs another function - intrasecretory, producing chorionic gonadotropin, which is especially important in the first months of pregnancy.

At the same time, as the fetus develops in the womb, starting from the 3-4th month, progesterone is formed in the placenta, since by this time the intrasecretory function of the corpus luteum of pregnancy ceases, and this function falls entirely on it. The placenta contains blood clotting factors that promote normal blood circulation and stop bleeding after childbirth. It also performs a barrier function, that is, it delays the entry of substances harmful to the fetus. But, unfortunately, some of them pass the placental barrier. And this must be remembered. Thus, drugs, alcohol, toxins, nicotine, mercury, arsenic, lead, viruses, pharmacological preparations freely penetrate the uteroplacental barrier and have an extremely negative effect on the condition and development of the fetus.

In the photo of how the fetus develops, you can see that outwardly the placenta resembles a thick round cake. By the time of birth, its diameter reaches 15-18 cm, thickness - 2-3 cm, and weight - about 500-600 g. The placenta has two surfaces: maternal, which faces the wall of the uterus, and fruit, facing the fetus. Normally, the placenta is attached to the upper part of the uterus on the anterior or posterior wall, but sometimes anomalies occur in which the internal os of the uterus is completely or partially blocked.

By watching the video “How the fetus develops in the womb,” you can follow all the stages of the formation of a new life:

Intrauterine development of the fetus at the stage of formation of amniotic fluid

At the next stages of intrauterine development of the fetus, as a result of the secretion of the epithelium of the embryonic membrane, the penetration of fluid from the mother’s blood, the activity of the kidneys and lungs of the fetus, amniotic fluid is formed. They are a biologically active environment, the composition of which depends on the stage of pregnancy. By the end of pregnancy, approximately 1-1.5 liters of amniotic fluid accumulates. They protect the unborn child’s body from external influences, prevent the fusion of his skin with the amnion, protect the umbilical cord from compression, and provide a nutrient medium for him. Amniotic fluid contains proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, hormones, enzymes, immunoglobulins, minerals and other substances. In them, the fetus secretes urine and alveolar secretions from the respiratory tract. The waters are constantly renewed; in about 3-6 hours the entire amount of water changes. A complete exchange of substances dissolved in them occurs in 5 days. Amniotic fluid is partially excreted through the fetus and subsequently through the placenta, but most of it is removed
through the membranes. Waters may be subject to significant changes due to the condition of the mother and fetus. The amount of amniotic fluid can be normal (which we have already mentioned), excessive or insufficient. Excessive (more than 2 l) amount is called polyhydramnios, and insufficient (500 ml) is called oligohydramnios.

Oligohydramnios is associated with impaired formation of amniotic fluid and its absorption. This condition occurs in approximately 0.3-0.5% of pregnant women.

Intrauterine development of the fetus at the stage of umbilical cord formation

The next stage of intrauterine development of the fetus is the formation of the umbilical cord (one of the main structures connecting mother and child). The umbilical cord is a cord-like formation, represented by two arteries and one vein, carrying blood from the fetus to the placenta and back. Venous blood flows from the fetus to the placenta, and arterial blood flows in the opposite direction through the umbilical vein, enriched with oxygen in the placenta.

The umbilical vessels are surrounded by a gelatinous substance, and nerve fibers and trunks run along them. The course of the umbilical cord vessels is tortuous, so the umbilical cord looks like it is twisted along its length. One end of the umbilical cord is attached to the fetal navel, the other is connected to the placenta. The length of the umbilical cord of a full-term baby is approximately 50-55 cm, the diameter is about 1.5 cm. Sometimes the umbilical cord can be long (60-80 cm or more) or short (35-40 cm or less). Its thickness is determined by the amount of gelatinous substance.

Receptors in the mother's body are sensitive nerve endings located in the endometrium of the uterus, decidua, and blood vessels. Their function is to perceive information about the condition of the fetus and its development.

The video “Intrauterine development of the fetus” will help you better imagine how the embryo develops in the mother’s womb:

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