Pregnancy Week by Week guides women through each of the 40 weeks of pregnancy, giving details on developmental milestones in both Mom and Baby, practical advice and words of encouragement.

2. The average length of full term pregnancy in women is counted as 40 weeks (280 days). But the period an
unborn baby spends in its mother’s womb is 38 weeks. This difference is because conception generally
occurs after two weeks from the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period (LMP).
That is, when you are actually thinking of that lovely baby growing inside you for the first time, you are
already two weeks pregnant.
Pregnancy or the gestation period in women is divided into three trimesters:
First trimester – From conception week 12
Second Trimester – Week 12 to week 24
Third trimester – Week 24 to week 40
Forward, find out what is happening with you and the baby in these stages, week by week.

3. Symptoms in 1 Week Pregnant Women
A full term pregnancy that lasts for 40 weeks is divided into inside your mind for the first time, you are already two weeks
13-week trimesters that typically start from day one of your last pregnant.
menstrual period. That is, when the physician says that you are
10 weeks pregnant, then the period of conception is Many women experience very few or no symptoms at all during
approximately 8 weeks ago. Most 1 week pregnant women are the first week of pregnancy as most of this time is consumed by
unaware of the fact that the first week is mostly confined to ovulation and fertilization. But mild cramping and increased
ovulation and fertilization. amounts of clear discharge are considered the most common
symptoms experienced by 1 week pregnant women. Increased
You don’t notice much of the changes fatigue, tenderness in the breasts and some sort of metallic taste
as there is no releasing of the egg in in the mouth are also the signs of carrying.
week one. In the first week, the
menstrual cycle stops and the uterine The due date for the baby’s arrival can be estimated based on
lining starts building and thickening the woman’s LMP during her first prenatal visit to the healthcare
to receive the egg that is ready for provider. However, charting could be a little difficult as not all
fertilization. And the actual development of the fetus starts from women have the same cycles. But an ultra sound can give you the
week 3 onwards. exact arrival day as well as an exact picture of the little one.
The first day of your pregnancy is the first day of your last Start living healthy, adopt healthy lifestyle habits and start taking
menstrual cycle. As ovulation generally occurs two weeks after prenatal vitamins and other essential vitamin supplements to give
that, most women conceive during this time. Just keep in mind a good start to thenew life.
that when you are actually thinking of that lovely baby growing

4. Week 2 of Your Pregnancy and the Changes in You
A woman’s uterine lining starts to thicken when she is 2 weeks Women’s cycle varies greatly from the average. To know the
pregnant . It is also the time when the uterus begins preparing a approximate length of your cycle is necessary to know the time
tissue to house the embryo. Measuring how long you have been frame of your pregnancy. For example, a woman of a normal
pregnant depends on how you keep track of the menstruation cycle of 4 weeks is actually 2 weeks pregnant when the doctor
cycle. The usual count of the pregnancy from the first day of informs her that she is 4 weeks pregnant. But with a woman
your last menstrual cycle makes you about 4-5 weeks pregnant whose cycle is typically 5 weeks, then you would say that she is
by the time your next period is missed. 4 weeks pregnant.
But as your pregnancy begins when your egg was fertilized
about 14-18 days ago, you are actually 2 weeks pregnant. This
is because ovulation occurs around 14-18 of a woman’s cycle.
The first day of the menstrual period is the first cycle day. The
cycle may last about 5-7 days. Then, after a week, the ovaries
prepare to release the egg. But the ovulation occurs between
day 14 and day 18 of that cycle if the sperm is waiting for the
egg at the top of the fallopian tube. As the sperm can survive Counting the pregnancy weeks also depends on how long you
up to 5 days, the fertilization could start as soon as the egg is waited after the missing period. However, what is most important
released. is to enjoy your pregnancy and have a good diet that will help the
development of the baby.

5. Week 3 of Pregnancy – The Beginning of Fertilization
When you are 3 weeks pregnant , the sperm comes into contact During this time your baby is growing remarkably fast but is
with the egg inside the fallopian tube and the fertilization occurs. still too small to detect with the naked eye. But it will change
But you are not even aware that you have conceived as you rapidly in the weeks that come. It starts developing its head,
didn’t miss a period. Week 3 is the actual beginning of spinal chord and the gastrointestinal tract.
pregnancy and also the time when the gender of the baby is
You will even notice that your waistline is expanding but you
determined.
shouldn’t fear the weight gain that is inevitable at this time.
Some women experience slight In fact, it is very natural and healthy to gain weight during
spotting and bleeding because pregnancy as much of it is due to the growing placenta,
of the fertilized egg moving into amniotic fluid, and the fluid collecting in the tissue and the
the uterus. They may even baby. The weight gain is also because of the accumulation of
experience nausea but there is the maternal fat that helps in supporting the breastfeeding.
nothing to worry about. The third week of pregnancy is the time when a lot of changes
are about to occur in your body. Appreciate these changes
Week 3 of pregnancy is the time when doctors usually prescribe and remember that they help in supporting you and the baby
folic acid tablets as it helps in preventing the baby from defects. throughout your pregnancy
During this week, the amniotic fluid starts collecting around
the cells that comprise the embryo. It helps in cushioning your
baby during the entire nine months of pregnancy.

6. Your Baby’s Growth and Development in Week 4 of Pregnancy
When you are 4 weeks pregnant, your baby is about ½ to 1 mm It is thus very important that the mother takes utmost care of
long. Quite an accomplishment for the little one! It will now start herself by starting to take a healthy and well-balanced diet.
imbedding itself deeper into the uterus lining as the amniotic
cavity and the placenta is beginning to form.
This is the time when she
needs a lot of rest and
The placenta helps in transporting the oxygen and nutrients to
should give up smoking and
the baby from vascular networks and blood from your body.
drinking. It is even
Week 4 of pregnancy is the time when your baby starts
recommended that you
developing its organs as different layers of cells develop in
schedule an appointment
your body.
with your obstetrician.
Pregnancy symptoms are greater in the fourth week. Morning
sickness, dizziness, and tender or sore breasts are some of
the common symptoms during the fourth week. Other Prenatal care is very important during the initial weeks of
symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and mood swings may pregnancy that are crucial for your baby’s development.
also occur during this time.
Week 4 of pregnancy is the time when, along with placenta,
The week 4 which marks 1 month of pregnancy is actually very the umbilical cord develops which helps in supplying oxygen
crucial for the woman and her baby as this is the time when the and other nourishments to the fetus. That warns you to be
fetus is prone to different kinds of abnormalities. extra careful about your nutrition during pregnancy.

7. Complications to Avoid in Week 5 of Pregnancy
Rapid changes occur in both the mother and her baby when she This is the time when early pregnancy complications such as
is 5 weeks pregnant . The embryo now starts forming its limbs ectopic pregnancy occur. It happens mostly when the fertilized
and ears. The eyes begin to appear and the head starts forming egg implants outside the uterus instead of imbedding itself into
mouth and nostrils. Your baby’s tiny heart has formed and has the uterus. Measuring the levels of HCG is the best way to
begun to beat and pump blood. This week, the baby will also diagnose an ectopic pregnancy. Other complications such as a
have the first of the many growth spurts. blighted ovum or a molar pregnancy lead to miscarriage.
Fact of being 5 weeks pregnant
The baby also begins forming its
skeleton by the end of the fifth week Instead of consuming coffee, better make a habit of drinking
of pregnancy. On the whole, the steamed milk. Taking a soothing drink will help you avoid nausea
and continue with your morning rituals. Also drinking milk is
baby will have a distinct shape by the
beneficial for your baby as your baby will get enough calcium for
end of this week. proper growth of its bones, nails and teeth, especially now that you
are 5 weeks pregnant.
Symptoms such as morning sickness, nausea, dizziness and It is important to adapt a healthy lifestyle to avoid all these
soreness in the breasts are all continued even in the fifth week potential complications. However, if you experience any
and some women may also experience mood swings. The abnormal symptoms even after switching to a healthy diet
need to urinate more frequently is also one of the symptoms and a good nutritious food, make sure that you contact your
and this is caused due to the growing size of the uterus. obstetrician or your healthcare provider immediately.

8. Pregnancy Week 6 – Changes in You and the Baby
The main thing that your healthcare provider wants to discuss Breakfast cereals, kidney beans, broccoli, and whole wheat
with you when you are 6 weeks pregnant is your diet. Your baby breads and pastas are all rich in folic acid and are especially
has begun to develop all its vital organs in its fifth week and it is important for pregnant woman. However, a 400 mcg tablet is
now time to provide all the nourishment it needs to grow up seen as a substitute by many carrying women.
healthy.
In this week, your baby’s brain starts to develop and divides
itself into its 3 regions. Other physical features also develop
and are completely surrounded by the amniotic sac. The heart
starts beating at the rate of 100-150 beats per minute and you
can even feel it.
Experts say that your baby starts making its first movement
during week 6 but they are so light that a mother is unable to
feel the movements. As all the organs are developing rapidly,
this is the time – as is the entire time of your pregnancy – that You will have some weight gain in the sixth week of your
you take utmost care of your diet. pregnancy and the uterus will start growing.
The sixth week is also the time when most miscarriages occur.
Folic acid intake should be continued until the first trimester
So, if you do notice any abnormal spotting or bleeding, your
of your pregnancy as it helps in the development of all the
healthcare provider should be contacted immediately.
organs of your baby.

9. Increased Symptoms in Week 7 of Pregnancy
As you are 7 weeks pregnant now, your baby is visible through an W h i l e t h e p a i n c a n b e s u b s i d e d a l i t t l e b y t a k i n g Ty l e n o l ,
ultrasound scan as it has quadrupled its size since conception. meditation and yoga are considered beneficial during the
Of course, sometimes embryos can be seen from as early as e n t i r e p r e g n a n c y.
six weeks. The baby’s nerves start functioning in the seventh Eating food rich in nutrients
week and it is even able to open its mouth. and green leafy vegetable
Another important factor in week 7 is that your baby develops is good to make up for the
its muscle systems and is producing its own blood. This is lost nutrients in your body.
because the baby’s liver is working to produce red blood cells. It is also good for the
development of the baby as
Symptoms like mood swings, dizziness, nausea, morning the food you consume
sickness, and frequent urination may still continue and the during the entire pregnancy
tenderness in the breasts persists. Constipation is also a will have a lot of effect on
problem in many women during this time and hence they are the development of your
advised to drink a lot of water. baby.
Vomiting becomes severe and there might also be chances
of weight loss which is due to the hormonal changes in the As the baby starts developing major organs, it is essential that
body. While you can’t avoid these changes occurring inside you manage the cravings that occur during this time and avoid
your body, you can relieve them to some extent by doing substances that might prove harmful for you or the baby.
some simple things.

10. Baby’s Development of Organs in Week 8 of Pregnancy
Your baby is starting to look a little bit more human as you are The chances of showing out are more if you are carrying twins
now 8 weeks pregnant. Its upper lip, ears, eyelids and nose are or triplets as your babies will take more room in the uterus.
forming rapidly. It will also start developing its toes and fingers
You might have even noticed that your breasts are slightly
this week. The baby stretches and causes some sort of
enlarged. Breast growth continues throughout the pregnancy
discomfort for you.
as the breasts prepare to make breast milk for the baby.
The brain development is rapid
this week making the head Back pain is also a common discomfort during this time as the
appear slightly big. The nerve growing uterus is putting pressure on your lower back.
cells are beginning to connect
Although pregnancy presents various challenges, it’s a
with one another. The heart is
wonderful journey for you and the little one. And it is very
now divided into 4 chambers and
important to let your doctor know how you are doing to help
is pumping blood throughout the
you make your pregnancy more relaxing.
body. The umbilical is completely
formed connecting you both through the placenta. Facts about being 8 weeks pregnant
Though you are 8 weeks pregnant and your uterus is continuo-
Good prenatal care is very much essential for the health
-usly growing to accommodate the little one, it is likely that
and safe delivery of your baby. So, make sure that the
you are not showing much on the outside. It is hard to believe
prenatal appointments are your top priority
but your baby is now the size of a grape fruit even though it has
developed all the vital organs that we all have.

11. Pregnancy Week 9 – Can You Hear the Heartbeat?
You are reaching at the end of the first trimester when you are The most remarkable change that your baby undergoes during
9 weeks pregnant . And of course there are notable changes your ninth week of pregnancy is the growth of sexual organs.
inside both of you. Breast soreness and tenderness increase Your baby now resembles a human more closely. At this stage
along with the increase in the breast size. Chances are that your little one’s head is half the size of its body.
they will grow even more as the breast tissue will grow during
pregnancy probably to let the milk come in later.
Your blood volume also increases and adds up to 4-5 ponds
of weight. Changes in the maternal fat and the amniotic fluid
volume will further increase your weight during pregnancy
which is quite normal.
Your baby too is having a lot of physical changes and is growing
rapidly. Its fingers are well formed now, and the toes are taking
shape. It now even has its own unique fingerprints, and the
ankle and wrist joints are developing.
You need to take utmost care during this time and consume
You may also hear your baby’s heartbeat in week 9 of pregnancy
enough protein foods. In addition to taking nutritious diet,
with the help of a Doppler. And its not a big issue if you really
avoid smoking and drinking completely as they increase the
cant hear the heartbeat as it is just 1 inch in length and weighs
risk of miscarriage when you are nine weeks pregnant.
mere 2 grams!

12. Week 10 of Pregnancy – Time for CVS
Your baby has completely developed into a fetus from the It also starts swallowing the amniotic fluid around it which
embryo when you are 10 weeks pregnant. You will even find provides the nourishment it needs.
relief from some of your pregnancy symptoms such as the The end of week 10 of pregnancy is considered the best time
morning sickness. You are still in your first trimester of your for having the chronic villus sampling test which identifies any
pregnancy and are still not safe from the chances of a chromosome abnormalities and detects any other genetic
miscarriage. It is therefore very important to make your conditions.
movements slow and steady.
Avoid dieting during pregnancy as
Most hormonal changes occur during this time and the it might be harmful to the baby.
blood volume increases to about 40-50%. Hormonal Eat sensibly and have nutritious
changes occur due to rapid growth of the placenta which foods in sufficient quantities. Do
is also responsible for hormone changes in your baby’s not forget that the quality of food
b o d y t o o . Yo u w i l l s l o w l y s t a r t n o t i c i n g c h a n g e s i n y o u you eat during this period will have
but your body doesn’t show out too much. a great effect on your baby’s
growth.
External genital organs begin to appear in your baby that
w e r e u n t i l n o w d e v e l o p i n g i n t e r n a l l y. Yo u r b a b y d o u b l e s
its growth in week 10 of pregnancy and all the essential
In addition to taking a balanced diet and taking good care of
organs begin functioning.
your health, you need to avoid exposure even to second-hand
smoke to give birth to a healthy and lovely baby.

13. Week 11 of Pregnancy and the Growing Hormone Production
Now that you are 11 weeks pregnant, you have approached the Your baby is able to open and close its fists, and there are little
end of the first trimester of pregnancy. Your morning sickness buds forming inside its mouth that will eventually develop into
has reduced completely. If not, it will reduce by the end of week teeth.
11. This is because even the hormone production has reduced
due to your baby’s growing pituitary gland.
By week 11 of your pregnancy,
Your stomach now begins to grow slowly and you might have you begin to notice that your
gained weight. There is nothing to worry even if you have not fingernails and hair are starting
yet gained any weight as you will in the second trimester. Most to grow rapidly. And as the
of the women who have experienced more morning sickness uterus is growing and expan
do not gain weight in the first trimester. -ding, it will be very difficult for
you to get more comfortable
during nights.
All the vital organs of the baby have been formed and are
functioning. The risks of defects decrease as the baby is now
less prone to outside influences. Your baby starts moving
Eat healthy and always be in good spirits as much as possible
frequently but you may not notice this. Your baby is now
throughout your pregnancy. Include more nutritious and vitamin
2 inches long and weighs one third of an ounce.
-rich food in your diet which helps both you and the baby.

14. Changes in You and the Baby in Week 12 of Pregnancy
Major changes occur in both the baby and you when you are As you have reached the end of your first trimester and your
12 weeks pregnant. You might be noticing some skin changes baby is growing rapidly, its time for you to take more calcium-rich
during this week along with relief from nausea and morning foods as they help your baby in growing healthy bones, teeth and
sickness. Your uterus is gradually growing along with the baby muscle.
and your tummy starts to show.
By now, your little one’s placenta starts
producing hormones and his nerve cells
You will also produce large amounts of progesterone by now
start growing rapidly. It will also start to
and might experience some heartburn.
practice breathing inside the amniotic fluid.
Tooth buds too begin to appear and there is
Pregnancy week 12 is the time to regain your appetite that
a need for you to boost your calcium intake.
was lost due to nausea and the morning sickness and all the
Avoid excessive intake of vitamin A as this
other symptoms that bothered you. Eat healthy and nutri-
might damage the liver and cause jaundice.
-tious food, and at the same time, make sure that you are
not eating any food that is not cooked thoroughly.
In week 12 of pregnancy, some women form a dark vertical line
along their abdomen which is quite natural. Avoid smoking and
Semi-cooked meat and steaks increase the chances of
even second hand smoke completely as research suggests that
toxoplasmosis – an infection that might prove dangerous
you can reduce the chances of asthma development from 5-15%
f o r y o u r g r o w i n g b a b y.
if you stay away from smoking during pregnancy.

15. Week 13 of Pregnancy – The Beginning of the Second Trimester
You have entered the second trimester of your pregnancy as By this time, your baby will start producing insulin with its tiny
you are now 13 weeks pregnant. You’ll also feel relieved a lot liver and this will help the baby regulate its blood-sugar levels
as the risk of miscarriage has now dropped dramatically. as it develops day by day. The baby’s eyes too will start to move
Even if your baby is still tiny, your tummy tells the world that to the front of its face.
you are expecting. If you see through your stomach through a
scan, you would see a completely formed baby with unique
finger prints even if it is now half the size of a banana.
Abdominal aches in week 13
Apart from your growing belly, you will notice the formation of of pregnancy are common as
bumps in your breasts. Yet, they do not pose any threats for the uterus is gradually
your health and are quite natural; they help the breasts in expanding. In addition to
making colostrums – the first milk that nourishes your little taking necessary supple-
one after his birth. -ments, you should also take
necessary minerals and
By now, you might have regained your appetite and are far itamins that are essential for
from all the dreadful symptoms that bothered in your initial the baby to grow healthy.
weeks. You will also look more radiant and energetic because
of the improved blood flow. Improve your eating and exercise
habits as this will help you both in the long run.

16. Improve Your Energy Levels as You Enter Week 14 of Pregnancy
It can be very hard to find relief from the lower back pain when Still keep away from raw and uncooked meat and be aware of
you are 14 weeks pregnant and this pain is much more in your food intake to match the required calories. Generally during
working mothers. But the good news is that you have gained this period, your caloric needs will rise by 300 calories a day.
back all your energy level and are in your glory days. Simple This is actually because your baby must receive all the essential
exercises are recommended now to fight with the backache. nutrition needed to grow healthy.
Constipation is a common problem faced by many during this
period and this might be reduced with drinking lot of water. It Adopt a healthy lifestyle as any
is also suggested that you include more fiber foods in your thing you eat or drink will have a
diet to keep your bowels moving. You will be too hungry during lot of effect on your baby who is
this time because of the growing need for more calories for growing increasingly proportional.
both you and the baby.
By now, your baby’s ears will start to move to their place at the
sides of the head and the eyes are now almost near the front It is also the time to relax when you are 14 weeks pregnant ,
of your baby’s face. Even the baby’s chin starts forming as the as it is important to lighten the muscles and joints in your body
neck is slowly getting longer. for more comfort.

17. Pregnancy Week 15 and the Developments in You Both
You need more rest as you are now 15 weeks pregnant. Getting Your abdomen will start looking more bloated and you might
a lot of rest helps you in boosting your immune system and also have gained 5-10 pounds by now. The uterus slowly starts rising
in promoting your health. The hormonal production has and moves past the hip bones. Relax a lot during this time as
increased along with increased blood flow for the past few it helps you from increased stress levels due to lack of
weeks and you are expecting sudden side effects such as concentration.
excessive salivation.
Most of the women fall victim to infections of the urinary tract
The swelling of the mucus during this period because of increased levels of progesterone.
membranes in the nose too Take all necessary measures to prevent the bacteria from
cause some inconvenience entering you and if you face such problems, consult your health
such as stuffy nose in many care provider, who will likely prescribe antibiotics to help you out.
women.
Take good care of your health and eat well. Exercise whenever
Most of the essential organ systems possible to promote both your and your baby’s health and well
of your baby will grow a lot during this week being.
of pregnancy. Your baby is growing rapidly and its bones are
getting harder and stronger. By this time your baby is spending
most of its time in practicing how to breathe. The taste buds
will also start to form during this time.

18. Pregnancy Week 16 – How’s Your Baby Growing?
Increased blood volume and the altered levels of hormones make For the first time in your pregnancy period, you might fell a little
your heart work harder when you are 16 weeks pregnant. The fluttering in your belly. Week 16 of pregnancy is the time when
nasal congestion that started last week will continue even in this most mothers report that their babies move inside. Some first-
week as it will throughout your pregnancy. This is probably time-mothers take a week or more to feel such movements
because of the softening of the tissues and due to the deficiency inside them. So, there is no need to panic as this is very natural.
of vitamin C. All this conditions will be resolved once the baby is
Continue taking a balanced diet and
born.
the required nutritious foods and
Your baby is now strong enough to hold its head straight and vitamin supplements as week 16 of
the ears and eyes are moving to their final positions. The baby pregnancy is the time when your
is now mainly focusing on its circulation system and its tiny baby is more prone to neural tube
heart is pumping about 25 quarts of blood every day. defects and chromosomal
abnormalities. Consult your health
Thin fine hair starts growing on the baby’s head and the limbs care provider to undergo tests
are beginning to lengthen. Your baby is now a little more than including the AFP test that indicates
4 inches and weighs around 3 ounces and has some facial if the baby is at the risk of developing
expressions too. some central nervous system or
spinal chord problems.

19. 17 Weeks Pregnant – Feel Your Baby’s Movements
When you are 17 weeks pregnant, your uterus should be about In this week 17 of pregnancy, there will be vaginal discharge
2 inches below your belly button. You will gain more weight which is normal in pregnant women. This is due to the increased
gradually. The uterus starts to change its shape and occupies estrogen production in the mother and a greater blood flow in the
more space thus putting more pressure on your intestines and genital region. It is normally fine if the discharge is clear or milky
pressing them to the sides. and is odorless.
Your baby can now hear even though the ears are not However if you doubt that the
completely functional. This is because the brain is developing vaginal discharge is amniotic
its parts that aid hearing and other senses. The baby is now fluid you should consult your
capable of moving all its body parts and is also able to swallow health care provider
and digest the amniotic fluid. immediately. This might also
be sometimes due to pre-term
The baby also starts storing the fat from the amniotic fluid labor. Take necessary steps to
that will help in keeping it warm after the birth. Your baby avoid stress and exercise
now weighs about 5 ounces and is a little over 5 inches long. lightly and also maintain a
healthy diet.
As your little one is growing rapidly, the uterus will soon
occupy your abdomen and pelvis but this will not cause any
distress to you.

20. 18 Weeks Pregnant – Time to Increase Your Appetite
You are 18 weeks pregnant and in the middle of your second To overcome this, lie on your left side while you are sleeping as
trimester of pregnancy. Most health care providers suggest that this will provide you more comfort and helps in preventing your
you undergo ultrasound scanning in this week to detect abnor- veins form compression. Buying a pregnancy pillow is also
-malities, if any, in the baby. This will also help you in planning suggestible as it supports your growing belly and the uterus.
ahead for any interventions that may be necessary for the baby
after its birth.
By now, your baby’s genitals are clearly distinguishable. The
baby has also started producing Myelin – a substance essen-
-tial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. This will
be produced until the ninth month. Your little one now weighs a
little more than five ounces and may be between 5 and 6 inches
long.
You can now probably feel the uterus just near the navel. It is
now the size of a small melon and you can even feel it below
your tummy. You might have gained around 15 pounds by
now which is just normal. You may start getting a little bit You will be feeling hungrier because of the growing need of good
uncomfortable because of the growing belly and find it nutrition. Make sure that your diet is nutritious and balanced as
difficult to get a good night sleep. our baby will take all it needs from your reserves.

21. Week 19 of Pregnancy – More Noticeable Changes
You are about halfway through your pregnancy when you are This is the time to start doing some exercises if you haven’t
19 weeks pregnant and your baby is getting bigger every day. already. Regular exercises help you in increasing the flexibility
If you already had your ultrasound, you might probably know of your body which will further help you relieving the tension and
what you are having inside you. pain during the labor.
Whether it is a boy or a girl, your baby’s genitals are now in A slight increase in discomfort is notice in this week due to
place. Your baby’s nervous is busy this week and the brain too increased heartburn. This is because the uterus is still pushing
is working hard as the special areas that help in your baby’s up against your tummy so that all the essential nutrients reach
senses are fast developing. the fetus more efficiently.
More noticeable changes occur in the baby in this week 19 of
pregnancy and there are more movements. The baby’s legs
There is a substantial demand for
are developed and the baby is now measured from head to
iron in the body when you are
toe – which could be around 6.5 inches. The sensory
pregnant. So, iron intake is very
development is also very fast and some research suggests
essential for both you and the baby.
that the baby may be able to hear your voice now.
Eat iron-rich foods such as red me
The baby also develops a protective layer called vernix over at, nuts, legumes, and iron-fortified
his body. This white sticky substance protects the baby’s skin breakfast cereals and bread.
in the amniotic fluid.

22. Week 20 of Pregnancy – The Halfway Mark
Your pregnancy signifies the halfway mark when you are 20 You will be gaining about 1 pound a week from now and eating
weeks pregnant. Your baby is now practicing breathing and a balanced diet will help you and the flourishing baby inside.
swallowing in the amniotic fluid. It weighs a little over 10 ounces Your belly too will be growing regular form this point of time
and measures approximately 6.5 inches. and you can observe regular changes. Constipation and
heartburn seem to persist still and you might also start feeling
Other changes in the baby include the formation of teeth buds a little clumsier from this week 20 of pregnancy.
which are hidden under the gums for now. The baby’s bones
are getting stronger and his skin is gathering more layers
Another major change in the baby is the development of sleep
patterns. Most of the babies fall into noticeable cycles of sleep
during this time. The immunities also begin to develop during
this week as your body transfers antibodies into your little one.
You might feel a little breathless at this stage as the uterus is
pushing upwards at your belly button. Be careful with your
posture so as not to stress your spine. This can lead to back
problems in the future. Using a pregnancy pillow is suggested Get good nutrition as it helps in giving you the required
as this will help you from straining your spine and also in strength and stamina to make it through pregnancy with
alleviating the back pain. good health.

23. Pregnancy Week 21 – You Have a Miniature Baby!
When you are 21 weeks pregnant, you will be gaining more The baby’s digestive system too develops as much that the tiny
weight and fat along with your growing baby. You might face intestines will contract and expand as your little one absorbs
some swelling problems due to increased weight and the small amounts of amniotic fluid. Your baby’s eye brows and
pressure put on the legs. These problems will subside naturally the eye lids are also completely grown now.
and can be even tackled with the help of maternity support belts
and hoses. They help you in avoiding the discomfort in the Your baby's growth will slow a little now as more concentration
ankles throughout your pregnancy. is developing the organs and the central nervous system. Your
baby can now hear you if you speak and sing.
The uterus continues its growth and is now pressing against
your rectum. Due to increased blood flow and increased levels
of pregnancy hormones, you may experience sensitive gums
which may even bleed in some women. Despite all these Maintain your physical well being
changes, you will be comfortable and in full swing pregnancy by doing regular but light exercises
mode. However, regular exercises and stretching are that help in better circulation both
suggested to alleviate these discomforts. for you and to your baby.
Inside, the baby’s organ systems continue to develop preparing
for the life outside. The umbilical cord starts thickening and
growing as more blood travels through it from you to the baby.

24. Week 22 of Pregnancy – Time for Itchy Belly
Your uterus is continuously growing and is a little above your The baby will now be able to touch and grab and feel the senses.
navel when you are 22 weeks pregnant. While the baby presents The brain is still continuing its growth as it will until your little
high paced changes, this is the time when you will notice some one is 5 years old.
skin changes in you. The continuously pushing uterus leaves
some stretch marks on your belly which cause itchiness. The growth of the taste buds helps the baby in detecting the
strong flavors in the amniotic fluid. Your baby now almost weighs
There are a variety of lotions that help you in limiting these a pound and measure about 11 inches.
stretch marks. Even though you cannot completely prevent
these stretch marks, you should consider using rich
moisturizers to keep your skin subtle, smooth and glowing after Concentrate more on your diet and
the delivery. see to it that the food you eat is
balanced and nutritious. Poor diet
Foot and leg cramps, mild swelling on the ankles and feet, and
can have severe consequences on
a slight increase in the heart rate are some common conditions
the physical and mental health of
seen in this week of pregnancy. These are quite normal and only
your baby.
indicate that your body is working a little harder.
Pregnancy week 22 also marks for significant changes in your
baby too. The hands have grown stronger and bigger and the
nerve ending have developed the sense of touch.

25. Sleep Discomforts in Week 23 of Pregnancy
Your body undergoes various other changes along with the The baby’s pancreas is developing inside the baby and the baby
growing stretch marks when you are 23 weeks pregnant. And due has also started producing insulin. Now the baby can hear your
to the stretching stomach muscles, your navel will pop out a little noise and your heart beat as well.
but will return to its natural position once you deliver the baby.
The baby’s tiny bones continue to ossify and the veins are now
You might have approximately gained 15 pounds by now and clearly visible through the translucent skin. The baby is still
might experience some muscle cramps in the legs. You will also developing those fat deposits that will be padded under the
find it very difficult to sleep in a comfortable position because wrinkly skin after the delivery.
of the belly that has now acquired the clear round shape.
This discomfort in sleep may be dealt with using pregnancy
pillows that give you a better chance to sleep comfortably Continue taking the recommended
throughout the night. The increase in the blood volume in daily intake of essential nutrients
lower parts of the body forces you to make frequent trips to that are necessary for the strength
the bathroom. and stamina of your developing
Changes in your blood chemistry may cause some water baby.
retention which may result in swelling known as edema.
H o w e v e r, t h i s c o u l d b e a v o i d e d b y k e e p i n g y o u r b o d y
movements frequent and avoid sitting for longer hours.

26. Pregnancy Week 24 and the Physical Changes in the Baby
Your uterus is now on top of your belly button and is of the size By now, the baby weighs about 2 lbs and measures 14 inches
of a soccer ball. As a result, you will be having trouble bending long. The skin is still wrinkled and will be normal once the fat is
and sitting comfortably. You will be gaining more weight which deposited and the muscles are formed. The little ones fingernails
is just normal in all the mothers-to-be. You will also observe a and the ears are now completely developed.
lot of changes in your and the bay when you are 24 weeks
pregnant.
The baby is gaining more bone
mass and the rapid eye movement
Take small frequent meals as your baby is in need of more
has already begun. And as the baby
nutrients now. It is suggested that you have six small meals
is growing in size, the space inside
a day instead of three so as to cope with your baby’s
the uterus is filled up and becomes
developmental needs.
more crowded.
By the time you are 24 weeks pregnant, you can feel the
movements of your baby completely. The need for frequent
Continue doing moderate exercises to fell better throughout the
urination, heartburn, anxiety and the growing discomfort lead
pregnancy and to have more stamina during labor. And be sure
to loss of sleep. The amniotic fluid begins to increase in
that your diet is adequate as pregnancy is more complicated in
volume and will continue until the delivery.
undernourished women.

27. Pregnancy Week 25 and the Growing Back Pain
By the time you are 25 weeks pregnant the growing uterus
The baby’s spine starts to mature and the brain and nerve
may put some pressure on your back. Most of the women
endings are so developed that the baby can sense the touch.
experience severe pain in their lower back region and the
legs because of this mounting pressure. You need to take enough care at this stage to deal with the
Along with some growing back growing needs of the baby and to keep yourself fit.
pain and leg cramps, week 25 is
Increase the calcium intake as this helps you in reducing the
the time when many women come
cramps in the legs and also in relieving the back pain.
across pregnancy complications
Moreover it is quite essential for the baby’s developing spine
such as preterm labor and
and his bones.
premature pregnancy.
Avoid activities that worsen your pain and always support
Meanwhile, the baby’s going
your body with cushions and body pillows. Pregnancy pillows
through the remaining major
improvements such as gaining weight and help you a lot during this time in getting a better sleep and
development of the central nervous system. The nostrils begin providing comfort.
to open and the respiratory system gets stronger in this week.
Consider some light exercises that your health care provider
The baby’s breathing movements also increase as a result recommends and always have a balanced and well-planned
of the well-developed lungs. By now, the baby weighs about diet to avoid unnecessary complications.
1.5 pounds and is probably 14 inches longer.

28. Pregnancy Week 26 Marks the End of Second Trimester
Being 26 weeks pregnant means that you are now at the Other discomforts such as leg cramps, back pain, headache
end of the second trimester and almost gone through two- and pressure in the pelvis continue and there might also be a
thirds of your pregnancy. Instead of complaining over condition known as restless leg syndrome where you’ll
problems like back ache and leg cramps, jus have a look at experience restless and jittery legs. Do simple exercises that
all those positive bits such as the neatly grown belly, slowly stretch the muscles and keep you physically active.
renewed energy, and the healthy hair and skin. And all this
Movements also increase inside your belly as the bay is more
because of the growing little one!
active betweens weeks 24 and 28. The brain activities inside
You will feel more discomfort the bay have developed and help in sight and hearing. This is
because of the growing belly and the time when the baby will have the first moments of sight.
this will continue in the coming
weeks. Most women experience Air sacs called alveoli start to develop inside the baby’s lungs
some sudden tightening and and they will continue growing for the next 9 years. By now,
relaxing of the uterus which is by the baby is 14 inches long and weighs about one-and-a- half
now two-and-a-half inches above pound.
the belly button.
Vitamin intake needs to be boosted and it is suggested to
However, these contractions are very common and are take small and frequent meals rich in fiber. This will further
painless. help in reducing the constipation.

29. Pregnancy Week 27 – Beginning of the Third Trimester
Various major changes occur in you and the baby when you The baby’s brain tissue and the neurons are developing
are 27 weeks pregnant. Increased sleep deprivation and rapidly and his brain is working as that of a newborn. If the
weight cause shortness of breath and increase the levels baby is male, the testes will have completely descended by
of fatigue in you. The growing uterus further compresses this point of time.
the bladder resulting in frequent urination. As the network of nerves around the ears has now completely
Shortness of breath is developed, the baby is able to hear you and might also
experienced because of the recognize your voice. The retinas start forming and the baby
increased size of the bay. At is able to see the light through your abdomen.
week 27 of pregnancy, most of By now, the baby will have regular patterns of movements
the women experience what is and sleep and is also sensitive to outside touch. At this point,
called as Braxton hicks contractions the baby weighs a little over 2 pounds and is approximately
– pre-labor contraction that help your 15 inches long.
body prepare for labor. And the good news is
Take at least 15 minutes of rest or a catnap to feel
that they are not painful.
energetic and recharged during the day. Continue taking
This is the time when the milk glands start developing due to a well-balanced and nutritious diet and practice some light
which, you will experience breast tenderness. exercises to strengthen your pelvis muscles and support
the bladder to overcome urinary incontinence.

30. Pregnancy Week 28 and the Symptoms
The baby is growing and developing at an astonishing rate The first few weeks of the third trimester is the period of
when you are 28 weeks pregnant and the space is getting varicose veins, hemorrhoids, aches and pains, and leg
a little tight. The eyes are completely formed along with the cramps. All this is because the uterus is still growing in
eyebrows and the eye lashes, the muscle tone is gradually size to accommodate the growing baby and because you
improving, lungs are capable of breathing and the baby is have even gained a weigh of around 24 pounds at this point.
even able to open and close the eyes. Even the baby will make you tense by kicking more and stronger
during this week. However, the kicks will become significantly
less as the space in the womb becomesinadequate in the coming
weeks.
Pregnancy week 28 is the time to be aware of the potential risks
of pre-term labor. Drink enough water to keep the contractions
of the uterus smooth and consult your health care provider
immediately if you experience any menstrual type cramping or
severe back pain.
You’ll need to get a shot of RhoGAM, or Rh immunoglobulin, this
week if your blood showed that you are Rh negative. This will
Overall, the baby’s features are well developed and at this prevent you from becoming sensitized to your baby's blood
time, the little one looks almost exactly what he or she is should it mix with yours during the time of pregnancy.
going to look after the delivery.

31. Pregnancy Week 29 – Monitor the Baby’s Movements
Pay attention to your baby’s movements when you are 29 The baby’s sucking abilities are improving and the baby can
weeks pregnant. For any reason, if you observe that the even cough and cry. The lungs too start maturing and the
baby’s movements are less or abnormal, contact your baby’s skin is now less wrinkled because of the packed
health care provider for proper guidance. pounds.
By this week you might have gained an overall weight of More so than ever, this is the right time to eat right and enough
20-24 pounds and your uterus is now approximately four every day as your baby will start absorbing plenty of nutrients
inches above your navel. Sometimes, you will be plagued from you to gain weight and prepare for the delivery. By this time,
the baby is around 16 inches long and weight about 2.5 pounds
by the heartburn because of the belly growing more and
more substantial each day.
Perform light exercises that help you to
Pregnancy constipation is also another problem faced by
strengthening your abdominal muscles
may pregnant women in week 29. Consume lots of liquids
and take enough iron supplements as
and eat a fiber-rich diet. Pregnancy week 29 is also the
iron deficiency is considered the most
time when you experience various other symptoms common problem during pregnancy.
including rapid weight gain. However, iron supplements cause
constipation.
By this time, the baby's brain is forming billions and billions
of neurons each day and can control the breathing and the
temperature of the body as it continues to mature.

32. 30 Weeks Pregnant – Pay Attention to Your Weight
Pay close attention to your weight gain and the swelling The decrease in the amniotic fluid is because your little one
you're experiencing when you are 30 weeks pregnant. continuing the growth and is taking up most of the space in
Extreme swelling may be the sign of Preeclampsia – the uterus. By now, your uterus might have reached about
a condition that occurs in very small percentage of 4 inches above your belly button.
pregnant women.
Inside, the baby’s toe nails are growing and the eyelids open and
Preeclampsia is a potentially dangerous condition that close. The early lanugo is disappearing and the bone marrow is
can include sudden weight gain, extreme swelling and now producing the red blood cells. Even the movements will be
severe headache. But, when properly treated, it can be very frequent and you may even recognize the body parts.
managed.
Week 30 of pregnancy is also the time when you are Week 30 of pregnancy is the hard time
likely to develop varicose veins. They appear as fine shifting from one position to another
and you will be having more trouble
bluish or reddish lines under your skin and are caused
sleeping comfortably at nights as the
due to weakness in the small veins.
belly expands. Using a pregnancy pillow
The amount of amniotic fluid starts decreasing inside your may bring you some comfort.
belly and the production of progesterone in your body
increases.

33. Week 31 of Pregnancy – Less Movements Inside the Tummy
Being 31 weeks pregnant, you will probably have some By this week, your baby is about 17 inches long and weighs
trouble catching the breath. But be careful to prevent about 4 pounds. During this and the weeks to come, the baby
excessive fatigue and dizziness. The movements inside will be accumulating layers under the skin that will help the
your tummy become less frequent has the baby has less baby in keeping safe and warm after the delivery.
room to swim about in the amniotic fluid. The baby’s immune system is getting stronger and the nerve
connections begin to function. By now, all the important body
The uterus now measures about 4.5 inches above your
organs of the baby have almost completely developed except
navel and the breasts start leaking colostrums or pre-
for the lungs.
milk that forms in the breasts to nourish the baby after
its birth. Use good breast pads to prevent the leaks from Continue taking small and frequent meals to avoid heartburn
being known to others. and take necessary precautions to stay away from the aching
back.
At this time, you might experience some pains and aches
along with numbness in your hands. All this conditions are
Iron intake is very important in the
normal in most of the pregnant women because of the
third trimester of pregnancy as there
continuous weight gain and changing hormone levels.
is a large shift of iron in the baby.
There is no need to panic as all these symptoms will
disappear after the delivery.

34. What’s Happening at Pregnancy Week 32?
Now that you are almost 32 weeks pregnant, you will This increase in the blood volume is necessary to support
probably be feeling contractions in the belly on a regular the baby’s growth.
basis. From now on, you should be very careful with
everything happening within you as indication of any As the baby is slowly dropping into pelvis in preparation for
severe pain can be labor pain. birth, the blood tends to pool in the mother ’s lower limbs
which results in low cranial blood pressure that may lead to
A lot of physical changes
fainting or dizziness. In order to avoid this, take a small walk
continue occurring in you and
when you rise from a prolonged sitting position.
the baby. Your estrogen levels
and the blood volume continue There are even chances for the leakage of the amniotic fluid
increasing as a result of which during this period. It is very essential to call your doctor if you
the leg cramps and the back experience any of these conditions.
aches may continue.
By this time, the baby’s lungs have completely matured and
Pain in the lower back and the buttocks around week 32 can all the senses are working properly. Continue eating well and
also happen as a woman’s center of gravity continues to exercise moderately and stay as relaxed as possible by
shift. You should be very careful while moving to avoid all means.
unnecessary slips or falls.
When you are 32 weeks pregnant, your blood volume will be
around 50% more than it was before pregnancy.

35. Facts to Know When You Are 33 Weeks Pregnant
You are probably getting more and more excited about Abdominal region along with
your upcoming birth now that you are 33 weeks pregnant. nausea, it is better that you contact
The uterus now just fills up most of the abdominal region your health care provider
and now measure about 5 inches above the belly button. immediately.
You may have gained around 28 pounds by this week. These conditions might be due to
This week, the leg cramps become serious and you will still pre-eclampsia – a condition
experience the difficulties such as troubled sleep and back characterized by increase in blood
ache. Gentle exercises might relieve you from these pressure, swelling and loss of
conditions. protein in the urine. It is considered
.
a serious complication during pregnancy
The growing baby makes a pretty tight fit in the uterus. Due
to this, you may notice that the movements of the baby have Rapid growth of the brain has increased its size in proportion
slow down a little. to the rest of the body and fat continues to settle under the
This is the time you may want to consider pre-registering baby’s skin, making it pink from red
at the hospital. It will help you in speeding the admission Even though the baby’s body is completely formed, he or she
process while you are in the throws of labor. is still going through rapid growth. However there are very few
You will be gaining a pound a week from now. If you notice changes remaining.
any sudden swelling in face and severe pain in the

36. Pregnancy Week 34 – The Baby Moves into the Pelvis
Breathing becomes easier when you are 34 weeks The baby will now move into your
pregnant as your baby is now situated in your pelvis and is pelvis and the baby’s head is on the
not compressing your lungs. However, the problem of pelvic bone. The baby has the
frequent urination persists due to this position. immunity to fight on its own, against
the infections, and antibodies are
You may also notice some numbness and tingling sensation
transferred from your blood into
in the pelvic region as the baby is putting pressure on the
the baby.
nerves. This condition is likely to persist until your delivery
and it is suggested that you try to be in relaxed positions
Lungs are completely developed and functional and the liver
all the time.
too is capable of processing certain amounts of waste. The
During this time, you will notice sudden contractions in baby’s weight is now about 5 pounds and measures
the belly – a sign that your body is getting ready for the approximately 17 inches long.
delivery. The shape of your belly changes as it drops due Stop feeling uncomfortable and anxious and try to be as
to the baby turning in a downward position to get ready relaxed as possible during these weeks. Stress during
for birth. pregnancy causes the release of catecholamines –
hormones released by the adrenal glands in response to
The navel pops out due to the expanding abdomen and
stress. These hormones delay the labor and make the
you may also observe some itchy red bumps on your belly.
delivery difficult.

37. Pregnancy Week 35 and the Signs of Labor
You baby is around 5 and-a-half pounds when you are If you are experiencing discomfort,
35 weeks pregnant. Due to the accumulation of fat under swelling and fatigue, a careful body
the skin, the baby’s arms and legs plump up. By now, the massage can be extremely helpful
baby is big enough to occupy almost all the place in the in relieving the pain and also helps
uterus and there is very little room to make any movements. you become stress-free.
During this last month of the pregnancy, most of the babies As you might be feeling more and
gain around half pound a week. The baby now weights up more anxious because of the nearing
to 5.5 pounds and is about 20 inches long. delivery, it is suggested that you take
some time to relax. Taking proper rest
Week 35 of pregnancy is the time when most of the women is also necessary as the last few weeks of pregnancy are very
experience extreme mood swings. Even though the mood stressful and exhausting.
swings persisted all the time of the pregnancy, they are
particularly a bit dramatic now. Take frequent walks as it will help you in easing the labor pains
and also continue taking a well balanced diet that is rich in iron
Some women may experience low levels of hemoglobin as and calcium.
the baby has utilized the iron levels in your body. Now is
the time to elevate the hemoglobin levels back to normal
so that you stay healthy and fit even after the delivery.

38. Pregnancy Week 36 – More Energy, More Fatigue
You are in the last month of your pregnancy when you are The baby is gradually loosing the lanugo hair covering the body.
36 weeks pregnant and it is very difficult for you getting a The skin gets pinker and is less wrinkly because of the
comfortable position. By now, you have gained about 25-30 deposition of fat.
pounds and your energy levels keep fluctuating. Vernix caseosa, the protective waxy
covering around the baby’s skin, starts
Mood swings are very common in this last month of
wearing off the skin and the baby is now
pregnancy. You will experience rapid swings between
dropped into heads down position by now.
fatigue and energy and could find yourself getting anxious,
irritable and moody at times. Heartburn, constipation and In this week, the baby also practices
discomfort are some common experiences. breathing, swallowing and sucking.
As you are coming to the end of your pregnancy, hormones The baby’s bones are now hardened
secreted from the placenta trigger the milk production for completely and the muscle tone is also
feeding the baby. Because of this you may experience improved. The baby now weighs about 5 and a half pounds
swelling of the breasts are they are filled with milk. and is approximately 17 inches in length
The colostrums and milk further help in boosting your Continue having healthy balanced diets that give all the
baby’s immature immune system after he or she is born. nutrition that the baby needs and take regular tests that
evaluate the well being of both you and the baby.
Meanwhile, the baby is also working hard on the final stages of
its lung development while the kidneys are fully developed now.

39. Signs of Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy Week 37
You may have gained a weight of about 35 pounds by the The uterus has stopped growing now and will remain the same
time you are 37 weeks pregnant. In most women, the uterus until delivery. Due to this, the movements of the baby become
stops growing and this is perfectly normal as the uterus less during this week and if you give birth now, your baby is
stays roughly the same size between pregnancy week 37 considered as full term.
and the delivery.
The internal organs of the baby are
The labor pains are quite normal during this time and it is now completely developed and the
very essential that you have regular prenatal checkups as baby is now preparing for the life
you are now at a stage where you can get into labor at outside with regularly practicing
any time. breathing, sucking ad swallowing.
You will also notice more vaginal discharge this week as
your body is preparing for the labor. In some women who By this time, the baby has even acquired
are overdue or who are having conditions like gestational enough coordination to grasp thing with the
diabetes, bleeding or pre eclampsia, the health care little fingers. The baby now weighs around 6.5 pounds and
provider decides to induce the labor using a pitochin drip measures about 21 inches long.
which stimulates the contractions. Take good care of your health and keep eating healthy as
Most of the pregnant women find that the pitochin drips leads to you continue the pregnancy from this point.
stronger contractions. However, the contractions are steady with
this medication and also minimize the complications.

40. Pregnancy Week 38 and the Signs of Labor
At 38 weeks pregnant you may start worrying a little about Your baby continues to put on some weight even in this week
the labor as your belly is sitting probably a little lower. You and weighs about 6 ½ pounds and is around 19 to 20 inches
may experience pelvic pressure because the baby is settling long.
into the pelvic region.
By now, the baby’s intestines have accumulated a considerable
amount of meconium – a mass of cells and waste products from
As the baby is hitting at your nerves while pressing, you
the pancreas, liver and the gall bladder – that will be eliminated
may experience unusual stings in your legs and inside the
shortly after the birth.
vagina. In order to overcome this, lift your legs up while
you are sitting down in a comfortable position.
All the internal organs of the baby are
As the cervix begins to dilate, you may lose your mucus well developed now and the baby is
plug which seals the cervix and prevents the infection ready for the outside world.
during pregnancy. This occurs in the last month of
pregnancy in most of the women and is not a predictor
of labor contrary to what many people say.
Increase your iron intake and continue taking your prenatal
Frequent urination is another problem you will experience at this vitamins as the baby experiences rapid growth during final
stage because of the pressure on the bladder and the thighs. weeks. Increasing your water intake is also very important
at this stage as it will help in preventing dehydration during labor.

41. Pregnancy Week 39 – Multiple Mood Swings
You will probably experience multiple mood swings when you Monitoring the baby’s heart rate is done during this time using
are 39 weeks pregnant as you are quite ready for the delivery. internal or external monitoring systems. The internal monitoring
systems give a more accurate reading while the external
Constipation and heartburn are the two common complaints
monitoring systems detect the baby’s heart rate similar to a
during this time. Drinking enough water and eating something
Doppler ultrasound.
at short intervals will relieve you from both the problems.
By pregnancy week 39, there are many signs
The uterus starts contracting thus slowing down the flow of
that your baby is full term. There is no longer
oxygenated blood to the placenta. This is a natural process
any lanugo hair on the baby’s body and the
and should cause no worry.
finger nails are now extended beyond the
You will continue making the amniotic fluid even in this finger tips.
final stages but the rate of absorption is a little low. So
the levels will start decreasing a bit. There might even
The movements of the baby are far less now as there is no
be leaking of the fluid which should be reported
enough room inside your belly. The baby now weighs about
immediately to your health care provider.
7 pounds and is around 20.5 inches long.
Sometimes, it is a little difficult to tell the difference between the
Nutrition becomes more important than ever during these
leaking of urine and the amniotic fluid. The best way to find out
final weeks as you will need more strength and stamina to
is to go to bed after probably an hour after emptying the bladder.
make it through the delivery with good health.

42. 40 Weeks Pregnant – Being Full Term
You are 40 weeks pregnant means that you are full term or in Generally these contractions occur in a frequency of 3-4 times
the last official week of pregnancy – hopefully. Some women every ten minutes and might probably last a minute.
give birth in week 41 or week 42 of pregnancy. Only 4 % of Other than this, you will experience phase II of labor which is
women give birth on their due date. called active labor, where the cervix is dilated up to 10 cms
The weight gain will slow down considerably in the last week which leads to descending your baby into the pelvic region.
of pregnancy and most women feel a bit clumsy and tired. The contractions then push the baby to move through the birth
During this time of pregnancy, most of the women start canal. The baby will be descended more slowly in first time
thinking about natural induction if they don’t experience labor. mothers.
In phase III, the placenta will expel within 20 to 30 minutes after
This decision should be carefully discussed and considered
the delivery. This organ must come out completely to avoid and
with your partner and the health care provider as research
bleeding or infections later. However, your health care provider
indicates that induction may lead to fetal distress and to a
will examine the placenta after it is expelled to be sure that no
higher incidence of cesarean section.
fragments are left.
As you are very anxious during this time, discuss with your
The baby is now ready for the world as it enters the pelvic
health care provider as what to eat and drink in early labor as
region. Its head is downwards and the back is facing against the
when to call or come to the birthing center.
abdomen. A full-term baby weighs around 7 to 8 pounds and is
At this time, you will probably experience real labor about 22 inches.
contractions that are more intense and painful.

43. 40 Weeks Pregnant – Being Full Term
Preserving health after pregnancy is as important as during
pregnancy because the infections of uterus, urinary tract and
breasts are common after delivery.
In addition to best diet after pregnancy, increase your water
intake as much as possible as it helps to clean the body from
harmful substances. Healthcare after pregnancy is both
important for the mother and her growing baby.
Po w e r e d b y
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