Baby developmental stages by week
Fetal development by week: Your baby in the womb
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From conception to labor, your baby is constantly growing and developing. Your baby moves through different stages, starting as a blastocyst, then maturing into an embryo, and then a fetus. Around the 5 week mark, cells in your baby's future heart will begin to flicker. At 27 weeks they'll have regular sleep and wake cycles, and at 39 weeks your baby is physically developed. Use this timeline to learn how big your baby is, plus how they're developing throughout pregnancy.
Follow your baby's development week by week, from conception to labor, in these amazingly detailed, doctor-reviewed images.
2 weeks: Fertilization
At the start of this week, you ovulate. Your egg is fertilized 12 to 24 hours later if a sperm penetrates it. Over the next several days, the fertilized egg will start dividing into multiple cells as it travels down the fallopian tube, enters your uterus, and starts to burrow into the uterine lining.
Read about fertilization.
3 weeks: Implantation
Now nestled in the nutrient-rich lining of your uterus is a microscopic ball of hundreds of rapidly multiplying cells that will develop into your baby. This ball of cells, called a blastocyst, has begun to produce the pregnancy hormone hCG, which tells your ovaries to stop releasing eggs.
Read about implantation.
4 weeks
Your ball of cells is now officially an embryo. You're now about 4 weeks from the beginning of your last period. It's around this time – when your next period would normally be due – that you might be able to get a positive result on a home pregnancy test.
Your baby is the size of a poppy seed.
Read about your pregnancy at 4 weeks.
5 weeks
Your baby resembles a tadpole more than a human, but is growing fast. The circulatory system is beginning to form, and cells in the tiny "heart" will start to flicker this week.
Your baby is the size of a sesame seed.
Read about your pregnancy at 5 weeks.
6 weeks
Your baby's nose, mouth and ears are starting to take shape, and their intestines and brain are beginning to develop.
Your baby is the size of a lentil.
Read about your pregnancy at 6 weeks.
7 weeks
Your baby has doubled in size since last week, but still has a tail, which will soon disappear. Little hands and feet that look more like paddles are emerging from the developing arms and legs.
Your baby is the size of a blueberry.
Read about your pregnancy at 7 weeks.
8 weeks
Your baby has started moving around, though you won't feel your baby move yet.
Nerve cells are branching out, forming primitive neural pathways. Breathing tubes now extend from their throat to their developing lungs.
Your baby is the size of a kidney bean.
Read about your pregnancy at 8 weeks.
9 weeks
Your baby's basic anatomy is developing (they even have tiny earlobes now), but there's much more to come. Their embryonic tail has disappeared and they weigh just a fraction of an ounce but are about to start gaining weight fast.
Your baby is the size of a grape.
Read about your pregnancy at 9 weeks.
10 weeks
Your embryo has completed the most critical portion of development. Their skin is still translucent, but their tiny limbs can bend and fine details like nails are starting to form.
Your baby is the size of a kumquat
Read about your pregnancy at 10 weeks.
11 weeks
Your baby is almost fully formed. They're kicking, stretching, and even hiccupping as their diaphragm develops, although you can't feel any activity yet.
Your baby is the size of a fig.
Read about your pregnancy at 11 weeks.
12 weeks
This week your baby's reflexes kick in: Their fingers will soon begin to open and close, toes will curl, and their mouth will make sucking movements.
Your baby is the size of a lime.
Read about your pregnancy at 12 weeks.
13 weeks
This is the last week of your first trimester. Your baby's tiny fingers now have fingerprints, and their veins and organs are clearly visible through their skin. If you're having a girl, her ovaries contain more than 2 million eggs.
Your baby is the size of a pea pod.
Read about your pregnancy at 13 weeks.
Entering the second trimester: What lies ahead
In this illustration, you can see how big – and yet, how tiny still – your baby is as you begin your second trimester.
After the first trimester, a miscarriage is much less likely. And for many moms-to-be, early pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness and fatigue have faded away.
If you're feeling more energetic now and haven't been exercising, it's a good time to start a regular pregnancy fitness routine.
Plus: See our ultimate pregnancy to-do list for the second trimester
14 weeks
Your baby's brain impulses have begun to fire and they're using their facial muscles. Their kidneys are working now, too. If you have an ultrasound, you may even see them sucking their thumb.
Your baby is the size of a lemon.
Read about your pregnancy at 14 weeks.
15 weeks
Your baby's eyelids are still fused shut, but they can sense light. If you shine a flashlight on your tummy, they'll move away from the beam. Ultrasounds done this week may reveal your baby's sex.
Your baby is the size of an apple.
Read about your pregnancy at 15 weeks.
16 weeks
The patterning on your baby's scalp has begun, though their hair isn't visible yet. Their legs are more developed, their head is more upright, and their ears are close to their final position.
Your baby is the size of an avocado.
Read about your pregnancy at 16 weeks.
17 weeks
Your baby can move their joints, and their skeleton – formerly soft cartilage – is now hardening to bone. The umbilical cord is growing stronger and thicker.
Your baby is the size of a turnip.
Read about your pregnancy at 17 weeks.
18 weeks
Your baby is flexing their arms and legs, and you may be able to feel those movements. Internally, a protective coating of myelin is forming around their nerves.
Your baby is the size of a bell pepper.
Read about your pregnancy at 18 weeks.
19 weeks
Your baby's senses – smell, vision, touch, taste and hearing – are developing and they may be able to hear your voice. Talk, sing or read out loud to them, if you feel like it.
Your baby is the size of an heirloom tomato.
Read about your pregnancy at 19 weeks.
20 weeks
Your baby can swallow now and their digestive system is producing meconium, the dark, sticky goo that they'll pass in their first poop – either in their diaper or in the womb during delivery.
Your baby is the size of a banana.
Read about your pregnancy at 20 weeks.
21 weeks
Your baby's movements have gone from flutters to full-on kicks and jabs against the walls of your womb. You may start to notice patterns as you become more familiar with their activity.
Your baby is the size of a carrot.
Read about your pregnancy at 21 weeks.
22 weeks
Your baby now looks almost like a miniature newborn. Features such as lips and eyebrows are more distinct, but the pigment that will color their eyes isn't present yet.
Your baby is the size of a spaghetti squash.
Read about your pregnancy at 22 weeks.
23 weeks
Your baby's ears are getting better at picking up sounds. After birth, they may recognize some noises outside the womb that they're hearing inside now.
Your baby is the size of a large mango.
Read about your pregnancy at 23 weeks.
24 weeks
Your baby cuts a pretty long and lean figure, but chubbier times are coming.
Their skin is still thin and translucent, but that will begin to change soon too.
Your baby is the size of an ear of corn.
Read about your pregnancy at 24 weeks.
25 weeks
Your baby's wrinkled skin is starting to fill out with baby fat, making them look more like a newborn. Their hair is beginning to come in, and it has color and texture.
Your baby is now the same weight as an average rutabaga.
Read about your pregnancy at 25 weeks.
26 weeks
Your baby is now inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, which helps develop their lungs. These breathing movements are good practice for that first breath of air at birth.
Your baby is the size of a bunch of scallions.
Read about your pregnancy at 26 weeks.
27 weeks
This is the last week of your second trimester. Your baby now sleeps and wakes on a regular schedule, and their brain is very active. Their lungs aren't fully formed, but they could function outside the womb with medical help.
Your baby is the size of a head of cauliflower.
Read about your pregnancy at 27 weeks.
Entering the third trimester: What lies ahead
In this illustration, you'll notice that your growing baby takes up quite a bit of room these days. In the third trimester, you might be peeing more often or have leg cramps as they press on nerves in your hips and back.
Now's the time to do things like sign up for a childbirth class, choose a doctor for your baby, and create a baby registry, if you haven't done so already.
28 weeks
Your baby's eyesight is developing, which may enable them to sense light filtering in from the outside. They can blink, and their eyelashes have grown in.
Your baby is the size of a large eggplant.
Read about your pregnancy at 28 weeks.
29 weeks
Your baby's muscles and lungs are busy getting ready to function in the outside world, and their head is growing to make room for their developing brain.
Your baby is the size of a butternut squash.
Read about your pregnancy at 29 weeks.
30 weeks
Your baby is surrounded by a pint and a half of amniotic fluid, although there will be less of it as they grow and claim more space inside your uterus.
Your baby is the size of a large cabbage.
Read about your pregnancy at 30 weeks.
31 weeks
Your baby can now turn their head from side to side. A protective layer of fat is accumulating under their skin, filling out their arms and legs.
Your baby is the size of a coconut.
Read about your pregnancy at 31 weeks.
32 weeks
You're probably gaining about a pound a week now. Half of that goes straight to your baby, who will gain one-third to half their birth weight in the next seven weeks in preparation for life outside the womb.
Your baby is the size of a large jicama.
Read about your pregnancy at 32 weeks.
33 weeks
The bones in your baby's skull aren't fused yet.
That allows them to shift as their head squeezes through the birth canal. They won't fully fuse until adulthood.
Your baby is the size of a pineapple.
Read about your pregnancy at 33 weeks.
34 weeks
Your baby's central nervous system is maturing, as are their lungs. Babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems usually do well in the long run.
Your baby is the size of a cantaloupe.
Read about your pregnancy at 34 weeks.
35 weeks
It's getting snug inside your womb – but you should still feel your baby moving as much as ever. Your baby's kidneys are fully developed, and their liver can process some waste products.
Your baby is the size of a honeydew melon.
Read about your pregnancy at 35 weeks.
36 weeks
Your baby is gaining about an ounce a day. They're also losing most of their lanugo hair that covered their body, along with the vernix caseosa, a waxy substance that was protecting their skin until now.
Your baby is the size of a head of romaine lettuce.
Read about your pregnancy at 36 weeks.
37 weeks
Your due date is very close, and though your baby looks like a newborn, they're not considered full-term until 39 weeks. Over the next two weeks, their lungs and brain will continue to mature.
Your baby is the size of a bunch of Swiss chard.
Read about your pregnancy at 37 weeks.
38 weeks
Are you curious about your baby's eye color? Their irises aren't fully pigmented at birth, so their eyes could change color up until they're about a year old.
Your baby is the size of a leek.
Read about your pregnancy at 38 weeks.
Turning full term
At 39 weeks, your baby will be considered full-term. In the illustration, you can see the mucus plug sealing your uterus and how squished your intestines are now.
39 weeks
Your baby's physical development is complete, but they're still busy putting on fat and growing bigger.
Your baby is the size of a mini watermelon.
Read about your pregnancy at 39 weeks.
40 weeks
If you're past your due date, you may not be as late as you think, especially if you calculated it solely based on the day of your last period. Sometimes women ovulate later than expected.
Your provider will continuously assess your pregnancy to make sure you can safely continue your pregnancy.
Your baby is the size of a small pumpkin.
Read about your pregnancy at 40 weeks.
41 weeks
Your baby is now considered late-term. Going more than two weeks past your due date can put you and your baby at risk for complications, so your provider will probably talk to you about inducing labor. They may perform a non-stress test (NST) to monitor your baby's fetal heart rate and your contractions to make sure your baby isn't in any distress.
Read about your pregnancy at 41 weeks.
Labor and delivery
Meeting your baby for the first time is so exciting – but exactly what will lead up to that moment is unpredictable, and it's natural to feel nervous.
Here's some help as you prepare for the big day. Find out how you'll know you're in labor and what to expect from delivery:
Learn the signs of labor and stages of labor
Read when to go to the hospital for labor
Take our free childbirth class
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Kate Marple
Kate Marple is a writer and editor who specializes in health, pregnancy, and parenting content. She's passionate about translating complicated medical information into helpful pregnancy and parenting advice that's easy to understand. She lives in San Francisco with her family.
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How big is my baby? Baby fruit size comparisons
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Photo credit: Karla Martin for BabyCenter
During pregnancy, your amazing baby grows from poppy seed to pumpkin.
Isn't it incredible that something the size of a grape can turn your world upside down? To get a sense of baby size by week, check out our baby fruit size guide comparing your baby's approximate length and weight to fruits and vegetables. We've used official averages for baby growth by week and produce sizes.
How big is my baby?
The next time you walk through the grocery store, spend a few minutes perusing the produce aisle. Though it may seem odd to compare your baby to something edible, it's a practice that goes back centuries. In olden times, people used common agricultural items (like seeds, nuts, and fruits) to estimate the size of babies in the womb. These days we have more variety – including fruits and veggies from around the globe. BabyCenter's baby fruit size comparisons were the first on the web, started in 1997 by staffers who noticed that parents call babies-to-be "little peanut" or "little bean" and ran with the concept.
4 weeks: Your baby is the size of a poppy seed
Your pregnancy may be detectable in a week or so by a home pregnancy test.
Read more about what's happening at 4 weeks pregnant.
5 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a sesame seed
Your baby now looks more like a tiny tadpole than a human.
Read more about what's happening at 5 weeks pregnant.
6 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a lentil
Your little lentil is now about 1/4 inch long.
Read more about what's happening at 6 weeks pregnant.
7 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a blueberry
Your baby has doubled in size since last week and is now about 1/2 inch long.
Read more about what's happening at 7 weeks pregnant.
8 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a kidney bean
Your little bean is now just over 1/2 inch long and is constantly moving and shifting.
Read more about what's happening at 8 weeks pregnant.
9 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a grape
Your baby now weighs almost an ounce and is almost 1 inch long. Their eyes are fully formed but their eyelids will be fused shut until 27 weeks.
Read more about what's happening at 9 weeks pregnant.
10 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a kumquat
Your baby now weighs a little over an ounce and is a little over 1 inch long from head to bottom.
Read more about what's happening at 10 weeks pregnant.
11 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a fig
At just over 1 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, your baby is still teeny-tiny – so while they're already kicking and stretching, you won't feel their acrobatics for another month or two.
Read more about what's happening at 11 weeks pregnant.
12 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a lime
Your lime-sized little one now weighs about 2 ounces and is just over 2 inches long from head to bottom.
Read more about what's happening at 12 weeks pregnant.
13 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a peapod
Your little peapod is now about 2 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and weighs about 2 1/2 ounces.
Read more about what's happening at 13 weeks pregnant.
14 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a lemon
Your baby – now weighing more than 3 ounces and measuring almost 6 inches from head to heel – can squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck their thumb.
You may wonder why this week's length measurement is so much bigger than last week. Until 13 weeks of pregnancy, babies are measured from the top of their head to their "rump." That's because their legs are curled up against their torso during the few weeks of pregnancy, so they're hard to measure. From here on, you'll see the head-to-heel measurement.
Read more about what's happening at 14 weeks pregnant.
15 weeks: Your baby is about the size of an apple
The future apple of your eye now weighs more than 4 ounces and is about 6 1/2 inches long from head to toe.
Read more about what's happening at 15 weeks pregnant.
16 weeks: Your baby is about the size of an avocado
Your baby now weighs 5 ounces and is 7 inches long from head to bottom.
Read more about what's happening at 16 weeks pregnant.
17 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a turnip
Your little turnip now weighs about 6 1/3 ounces and is roughly 8 inches long.
Read more about what's happening at 17 weeks pregnant.
18 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a bell pepper
Your baby now weighs almost 8 ounces and is more than 8 1/2 inches long from head to bottom. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.
Read more about what's happening at 18 weeks pregnant.
19 weeks: Your baby is about the size of an heirloom tomato
Your tomato-sized baby now weighs more than 9 1/2 ounces and is roughly 9 1/2 inches long.
Read about your baby's development at 19 weeks.
20 weeks: Your baby is about the length of a banana
Your burgeoning baby now measures about 10 inches from head to heel, and weighs roughly 11 1/2 ounces.
Editors' note: As much time as we spent at the farmer's market and on the USDA site, it wasn't easy to find the perfect produce for every week of development. The banana is just an approximation of length.
Read more about what's happening at 20 weeks pregnant.
21 weeks: Your baby is about as long as a carrot
Your carrot-sized cutie is now a little over 10 1/2 inches from head to heel and weighs about 14 ounces.
Editors' note: We know what you're thinking – "There's no way my baby is the size of a carrot. I feel ginormous!" You're right that your baby is bulkier than a carrot, but the head-to-heel length is similar to a good-sized carrot.
Read more about what's happening at 21 weeks pregnant.
22 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a spaghetti squash
At 11 1/2 inches and a little over 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn as their lips, eyelids, and eyebrows become more distinct.
Read more about what's happening at 22 weeks pregnant.
23 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a large mango
Your baby now weighs about 1 1/4 pounds and is more than a foot long – and if you turn on some tunes and sway to the music, they can feel you dance.
Read more about what's happening at 23 weeks pregnant.
24 weeks: Your baby is about as long as an ear of corn
Your baby is now about 12 1/2 inches long from head to heel and weighs nearly 1 1/2 pounds.
Read more about what's happening at 24 weeks pregnant.
25 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a rutabaga
Your baby now rivals the average rutabaga in weight – about 1 3/4 pounds – and is roughly 13 1/4 inches long from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 25 weeks pregnant.
26 weeks: Your baby is about the length of a scallion
Your baby, now nearly 14 inches from head to heel and roughly 2 pounds, may be able to hear both your voice and the voices of people you talk to.
Read more about what's happening at 26 weeks pregnant.
27 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a head of cauliflower
Your baby is now as hefty as a head of cauliflower, weighing in at about 2 1/3 pounds and measuring roughly 14 1/2 inches.
Read more about what's happening at 27 weeks pregnant.
28 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a large eggplant
Your baby now weighs about 2 2/3 pounds, is almost 15 inches long from head to heel, and can blink their eyes (which now sport lashes).
Read more about what's happening at 28 weeks pregnant.
29 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a butternut squash
Your baby now weighs more than 3 pounds and is about 15 1/2 inches long from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 29 weeks pregnant.
30 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a large cabbage
Your baby tips the scales this week at almost 3 1/2 pounds and is almost 16 inches long from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 30 weeks pregnant.
31 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a coconut
Your baby now weighs almost 4 pounds and measures about 16 1/2 inches from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 31 weeks pregnant.
32 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a jicama
Your baby is taking up more and more space in your uterus, weighing in at about 4 1/3 pounds and measuring nearly 17 inches from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 32 weeks pregnant.
33 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a pineapple
Measuring 17 1/3 inches from head to heel and weighing about 4 3/4 pounds, your baby is rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look, and their skeleton is hardening.
Read more about what's happening at 33 weeks pregnant.
34 weeks: Your baby is about the size of cantaloupe
Your melon-sized munchkin now weighs about 5 1/4 pounds and is almost 18 inches long from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 34 weeks pregnant.
35 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a honeydew melon
Your baby, now weighing in at 5 3/4 pounds and measuring more than 18 inches, doesn't have much room to maneuver in your belly.
Read more about what's happening at 35 weeks pregnant.
36 weeks: Your baby is about as long as a head of romaine lettuce
Your not-so-little lettuce now measures more than 18 1/2 inches from head to heel and weighs more than 6 pounds (and is still packing it on at a rate of about an ounce a day).
Read more about what's happening at 36 weeks pregnant.
37 weeks: Your baby is about the length of a bunch of Swiss chard
Your baby measures roughly 19 inches from head to heel and weighs about 6 2/3 pounds.
Read more about what's happening at 37 weeks pregnant.
38 weeks: Your baby is about the length of a leek
Your lanky leek is now about 19 1/2 inches long from head to heel and weighs more than 7 pounds.
Read more about what's happening at 38 weeks pregnant.
39 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a mini-watermelon
Your baby now weighs about 7 1/2 pounds and is nearly 20 inches long from head to heel.
Read more about what's happening at 39 weeks pregnant.
40 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a small pumpkin
Your little pumpkin could arrive any day now, if they aren't here already. The average newborn weighs about 8 pounds and is about 20 inches long.
Read more about what's happening at 40 weeks pregnant.
Was this article helpful?
Yes
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Kate Marple
Kate Marple is a writer and editor who specializes in health, pregnancy, and parenting content. She's passionate about translating complicated medical information into helpful pregnancy and parenting advice that's easy to understand. She lives in San Francisco with her family.
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Child development by weeks | Regional Perinatal Center
Expectant mothers are always curious about how the fetus develops at a time when it is awaited with such impatience.
Let's talk and look at the photos and pictures of how the fetus grows and develops week by week.
What does the puffer do for 9 whole months in mom's tummy? What does he feel, see and hear?
Let's start the story about the development of the fetus by weeks from the very beginning - from the moment of fertilization. A fetus up to 8 weeks old is called embryo , this occurs before the formation of all organ systems.
Embryo development: 1st week
The egg is fertilized and begins to actively split. The ovum travels to the uterus, getting rid of the membrane along the way.
On the 6th-8th days, implantation of eggs is carried out - implantation into the uterus. The egg settles on the surface of the uterine mucosa and, using the chorionic villi, attaches to the uterine mucosa.
Embryo development: 2-3 weeks
Picture of embryo development at 3 weeks.
The embryo is actively developing, starting to separate from the membranes.
At this stage, the beginnings of the muscular, skeletal and nervous systems are formed. Therefore, this period of pregnancy is considered important.
Embryo development: 4–7 weeks
Fetal development by week in pictures: week 4
Fetal development by week photo: week 4
Photo of an embryo before the 6th week of pregnancy.
The heart, head, arms, legs and tail are formed in the embryo :) . Gill slit is defined. The length of the embryo at the fifth week reaches 6 mm.
Fetal development by week photo: week 5
At the 7th week, the rudiments of the eyes, stomach and chest are determined, and fingers appear on the handles. The baby already has a sense organ - the vestibular apparatus. The length of the embryo is up to 12 mm.
Fetal development: 8th week
Fetal development by week photo: week 7-8
The face of the fetus can be identified, the mouth, nose, and auricles can be distinguished.
The head of the embryo is large and its length corresponds to the length of the body; the fetal body is formed. All significant, but not yet fully formed, elements of the baby's body already exist. The nervous system, muscles, skeleton continue to improve.
Fetal development in the photo already sensitive arms and legs: week 8
The fetus developed skin sensitivity in the mouth (preparation for the sucking reflex), and later in the face and palms.
At this stage of pregnancy, the genitals are already visible. Gill slits die. The fruit reaches 20 mm in length.
Fetal development: 9–10 weeks
Fetal development by week photo: week 9
Fingers and toes already with nails. The fetus begins to move in the pregnant woman's stomach, but the mother does not feel it yet. With a special stethoscope, you can hear the baby's heartbeat. Muscles continue to develop.
Weekly development of the fetus photo: week 10
The entire surface of the fetal body is sensitive and the baby develops tactile sensations with pleasure, touching his own body, the walls of the fetal bladder and the umbilical cord. It is very curious to observe this on ultrasound. By the way, the baby first moves away from the ultrasound sensor (of course, because it is cold and unusual!), And then puts his hands and heels trying to touch the sensor.
It's amazing when a mother puts her hand to her stomach, the baby tries to master the world and tries to touch with his pen "from the back".
The development of the fetus: 11–14 weeks
Development of the fetus in the photo of the legs: weeks 11
Hands, legs and eyelids are formed, and the genitals become distinguishable (you can find out the gender child). The fetus begins to swallow, and if something is not to its taste, for example, if something bitter got into the amniotic fluid (mother ate something), then the baby will begin to frown and stick out his tongue, making less swallowing movements.
Fruit skin appears translucent.
Development of the fetus: Week 12
Photo of the fetus 12 weeks per 3D ultrasound
buds are responsible for production for production urine. Blood forms inside the bones. And hairs begin to grow on the head. Moves more coordinated. The skin turns pink, the ears and other parts of the body, including the face, are already visible. Imagine, a child can already open his mouth and blink, as well as make grasping movements. The fetus begins to actively push in the mother's tummy. The sex of the fetus can be determined by ultrasound. Baby sucks his thumb, becomes more energetic. The auditory ossicles become stiff and now they are able to conduct sounds, the baby hears his mother - heartbeat, breathing, voice. The fetus intensively gains weight, fat deposits are formed. The weight of the fetus reaches 650 g, and the length is 300 mm. The lungs at this stage of fetal development are so developed that the baby can survive in the artificial conditions of the intensive care unit. Lungs continue to develop. Now the baby is already falling asleep and waking up. Downy hairs appear on the skin, the skin becomes wrinkled and covered with grease. The cartilage of the ears and nose is still soft. Lips and mouth become more sensitive. 9 out of 10 children born at this term survive. The lungs are now adapted to breathe normal air. Breathing is rhythmic and body temperature is controlled by the CNS. The baby can cry and responds to external sounds. Child opens eyes while awake and closes during sleep. The skin becomes thicker, smoother and pinkish. Starting from this period, the fetus will actively gain weight and grow rapidly. Almost all babies born prematurely at this time are viable. The weight of the fetus reaches 2500 g, and the length is 450 mm. The fetus reacts to a light source. The fetus is quite developed, prepared for birth and considered mature. The baby has mastered over 70 different reflex movements. Due to the subcutaneous fatty tissue, the baby's skin is pale pink. The head is covered with hairs up to 3 cm. The baby perfectly mastered the movements of his mother , knows when she is calm, excited, upset and reacts to this with her movements. During the intrauterine period, the fetus gets used to moving in space, which is why babies love it so much when they are carried in their arms or rolled in a stroller. For a baby, this is a completely natural state, so he will calm down and fall asleep when he is shaken. The nails protrude beyond the tips of the fingers, the cartilages of the ears and nose are elastic. After the birth, the baby longs for touching his body, because at first he cannot feel himself - the arms and legs do not obey the child as confidently as it was in the amniotic fluid. Therefore, so that your baby does not feel lonely, it is advisable to carry him in your arms, press him to you while stroking his body. And one more thing, the baby remembers the rhythm and sound of your heart very well . Therefore, you can comfort the baby in this way - take him in your arms, put him on the left side and your miracle will calm down, stop crying and fall asleep. And for you, finally, the time of bliss will come :) . Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and exciting periods in a woman's life, when the expectant mother begins to change her usual way of life, feels responsible not only for herself, but also for her unborn baby. A normal pregnancy lasts from 37 to 41 weeks. From the moment of conception to the birth of a child, a number of physiological changes occur in a woman's body, which can affect her well-being, appearance, and lifestyle. Many are accustomed to considering pregnancy in trimesters, but if the expectant mother wants to know everything about the development of the unborn child, here you will need a weekly pregnancy calendar. The terms of gestation are divided into obstetric - counted from the first day of the last menstruation and embryonic - more than the true one by 2 weeks. Keeping and knowing the pregnancy calendar is not only useful, but also convenient. In it, the expectant mother will find answers to such questions: Information from the manual will allow you to eliminate unnecessary worries, consult a doctor if necessary, bear and give birth to a healthy baby. Pregnancy starts from the moment of fertilization. This is a complex process in which the fusion of the egg and sperm takes place. Throughout the first week after conception, the villi of the fallopian tube move the blastocyst to the uterus, by the second week the embryo sinks into the endometrium, attaches to the wall. If the peristalsis of the fallopian tube is slow, inflammatory processes are present, or the woman suffers from other gynecological diseases, the embryo may attach to the fallopian tube, leading to an ectopic pregnancy that cannot be saved. Normal embryo implantation occurs within 7-8 days after conception. During this period, the hormone chorionic gonadotropin is produced, which gives the woman the first signals of a possible pregnancy. To determine its presence in the body, a test or analysis for hCG will help. At this stage, the first changes begin to occur in a woman's body, which affect her well-being. The first signs of pregnancy appear: All these symptoms indicate the initial development of toxicosis, which appears against the background of hormonal changes in the body. In the first trimester of pregnancy, it is important for a woman to register, undergo the necessary examinations, and follow all medical recommendations. Changes also occur in the development of the fetus, which outwardly resembles a small shell, 4 mm in size. During this period, other rudiments of organs begin to form: eye sockets, arms and legs, liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract. The neural tube is laid - the future brain, the cardiovascular system. It is during this period that folic acid should be present in the woman's body in sufficient quantities, since its deficiency can lead to neural tube defects, intrauterine pathologies. With the choice of vitamins for pregnant women, a gynecologist who leads the expectant mother will help. During this period there is no doubt that pregnancy has occurred. A woman should undergo the necessary tests: If the woman has a history of chronic illness, her doctor may prescribe additional tests. At 5 weeks, there is a high risk of abortion, so a woman should be very careful about her health. Eliminate heavy physical labor, stress, it is forbidden to lift weights. A possible miscarriage is evidenced by symptoms such as pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, a feeling of pressure in the rectal area, and spotting vaginal discharge. Such symptoms should be a reason for immediate medical attention. In the normal course of pregnancy, a woman is worried about toxicosis: nausea, heartburn, urge to vomit. A cervical plug is formed, which isolates the uterus from the external environment. Breasts increase in size, frequent urination worries. The fetus increases in size. An umbilical cord appears, through which he receives all the nutrients from his mother. Visually, the embryo looks like a tadpole. By week 6, the face begins to form: eyes, nose, upper and lower limbs. The size of the embryo is up to 20 mm. It begins to grow rapidly, vital organs and systems are formed, so it is important for a woman to take vitamins for pregnant women, to exclude factors that can harm the unborn child. Starting from the 7th week, the formation of the placenta ends, which passes only the necessary substances for the fetus, protects it from potentially dangerous compounds that are present in the mother's blood. To provide the unborn child with nutrients, the mother's body begins to work in an enhanced mode, which puts a strain on the heart. Toxicosis worries, the expectant mother gets tired quickly, so it is recommended to rest more. The fetus still looks like a tadpole, but at the same time it loses its “tail”, increases to 30 mm. Fingers and toes appear, and eyelids appear in front of the eyes. The heart already has 4 chambers, the genitourinary and excretory systems are being formed, the bile ducts are appearing. In a woman's body, metabolic processes work more intensively, so the symptoms of toxicosis may increase. The change in metabolism allows you to provide the baby's body with "building materials" - amino acids, energy. Of the symptoms that were not there before, there is heaviness and fatigue in the legs. It is important to adhere to proper nutrition, do not skip meals. If the body does not have enough essential minerals, this can lead to growth retardation in the fetus or the development of anemia in the expectant mother. During this period, the embryo has already formed all the organs, some of which are already working, and the other will start working after birth. The first trimester is over, the future mother's condition improves, toxicosis no longer worries. The fetus touches the walls of the uterus, moves in the amniotic fluid. A woman can detect skin pigmentation, but this condition will pass and not everyone appears. A slight roundness of the abdomen may appear. A woman is recommended moderate physical activity, proper and healthy nutrition. The size of the fetus is about 6 cm. Its skin is covered with small villi, it begins to actively move its limbs, and white blood cells are formed. The body of the expectant mother slowly adapts to new conditions, the general condition normalizes, strength and confidence appear. A second scheduled ultrasound is scheduled. Due to the growth of the fetus, the load on the heart increases, blood flow changes. In such cases, the doctor may prescribe iron supplements. The unborn child puts pressure on the intestines, constipation may disturb, a dark stripe appears on the abdomen, the chest enlarges, and a small amount of colostrum can be observed. In the abdomen, slight flutters are sometimes felt. At this stage it is worth thinking about special clothes for pregnant women. The fetus has completed the formation of the main organs and systems. On ultrasound, he already looks like a little man. The final stage of face formation takes place, eyebrows appear. The length of the fetus is from 7 to 10 cm. In the body of the future mother, the volume of blood increases, the need for iron increases. There may be increased weakness, dizziness. For many, due to sprains, discomfort appears in the abdomen, the nipples darken, there is a pronounced line on the abdomen. The fetus continues to grow actively, its proportions become harmonious. The intestines produce the first portions of stool, but it does not consist of digested food, but of amniotic fluid. The rudiments of nails appear on the fingers. The formation of the placenta ends, which makes it and the fetus one. According to the composition of the amniotic fluid, the doctor can determine the condition of the child. The expectant mother gains weight, legs often swell, spider veins appear. The doctor recommends resting more, walking less, wearing compression stockings or stockings. It is important to avoid high heels. Due to increased load and weight gain, shortness of breath, increased sweating may occur. The abdomen acquires roundness, becomes noticeable. The development of adipose tissue occurs in the fetus, the first rudiments of teeth appear - milk and molars. The skin is covered with a special lubricant that protects the baby from contact with the amniotic fluid. A growing fetus often causes digestive problems due to pressure on the diaphragm, heartburn, nausea, and constipation in a woman. The doctor often advises using a special support pillow during rest and after meals. At this stage, there is a risk of preeclampsia, which is dangerous for both the fetus and the expectant mother. Its symptoms include increased blood pressure, swelling throughout the body, severe nausea, and protein is found in the urine. Treatment is carried out in a hospital under medical supervision. The endocrine glands are active in the fetus, the formation of blood cells ends, but the nervous system continues to develop. The baby reaches a weight of 300 g, knows how to sleep and stay awake. The expectant mother clearly feels his movements, which are sometimes so strong that they cause discomfort. The belly is quite prominent. Screening ultrasound is recommended at this stage of pregnancy. A pregnant woman gets tired quickly, often complains of pain in her legs and back. These symptoms appear due to the active growth of the fetus. The fetus continues to grow, its weight reaches 450 g, its height is about 20 cm. Its lungs and respiratory system are actively developing, but they will work only after birth. There is a rapid heartbeat that can be easily heard through a stethoscope. Joints and bones develop, therefore, to strengthen them, the doctor may advise the expectant mother to take calcium supplements. Increased stress on the pelvic muscles, which can cause frequent urination, up to urinary incontinence. The first stretch marks may appear on the skin, so the doctor will advise you to use a special cream. Occasionally, primary non-birth contractions are disturbing, which should not cause alarm and are the norm. The swallowing and grasping reflexes appear and increase in the fetus, he can squeeze and unclench his hands, imitate sucking movements. A pregnant woman often complains of swelling of her legs, so she is advised to reduce the load, avoid wearing tight clothing, reduce fluid intake. The fruit puts pressure on the intestines, so you should eat small portions, but often, avoid foods that irritate the mucous membrane or increase gas formation. At week 25, a scheduled visit to the doctor, a blood test is recommended. The child quickly gains weight, subcutaneous tissue gives the skin elasticity, it is not translucent. Body weight is about 0.8–1 kg. The sense organs are sharpened, the production of surfactant is enhanced. The brain is improved, which communicates with the adrenal cortex and stimulates the production of corticoids. The pituitary gland, which begins to produce hormones, also acquires maturity. The baby is noticeably enlarged, which makes it difficult to live a normal life, disturbs sleep. Doctors recommend maintaining physical activity, attending water aerobics and yoga groups. The child's brain continues to develop actively, the first convolutions appear. On ultrasound, you can see that he reacts to sounds and noise. The expectant mother is recommended to include foods high in iodine, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the diet. The child is active, often pushes. The hair on his skin is gone. At this stage, the second trimester of pregnancy ends. Beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy. The abdomen is large enough, the height of the uterus is 29–30 cm. Women often complain of shortness of breath. During this period, it is important to undergo an ultrasound scan, which will help assess the condition of the fetus, measure blood flow, and examine the maturity of the placenta. At 29-30 weeks, some women may develop preeclampsia, in which there is protein in the urine, severe edema throughout the body, and increased blood pressure. If no abnormalities are found, the doctor may advise the expectant mother to do breathing exercises to help manage shortness of breath. Due to the large size of the fetus, its movements become less active. At this stage of pregnancy, the baby gains 300-400 g per week. From this point on, the risk of preterm birth increases. There is increased blood flow, which increases the load on the mother's heart. The doctor may recommend not to go far from home, to eat easily digestible food. The child is fully formed, the skin turns pink, the amount of subcutaneous fat increases. Often he takes a position upside down. During this period, it is important to determine the presentation of the fetus: longitudinal, transverse, oblique. The best option would be the longitudinal position of the fetus. A woman is advised to wear a prenatal bandage that can support the anterior wall of the abdomen. Before delivery, the position of the fetus may change, so do not worry if it is in a different position. The load on the heart increases, which can cause swelling of not only the extremities, but also the face in a pregnant woman. All tissues of the child continue to form, approaching normal values. The baby already looks like after birth. It begins to move into the small pelvis, this can reduce the load on the mother's respiratory centers. His digestive system is formed, he is ready for birth and independent intake of breast milk. All reflexes are well developed. The weight of the baby is about 1800-2100 g, height - 40 cm. A woman should prepare for childbirth. Thick discharge from the vagina indicates the discharge of the cervical plug. In such cases, it is necessary to visit a doctor, as this is a sign of an approaching birth. Often worried about prenatal contractions. The fetus weighs about 2100-2700 g, height - 44-45 cm. At this stage, the pregnancy is considered full-term, childbirth can occur at any time. The fetus is fully formed, slightly gaining weight and height. Considering that the baby is approaching the birth canal, a woman may be disturbed by minor pains in the lower abdomen, prenatal contractions. Time to give birth. You can find out the approximate day of birth by the date of the last menstruation. The child is completely ready for birth, has all the signs of maturity. After birth, the detachment of the umbilical cord deprives him of nutrition and oxygen, but given that the baby is fully formed, he is able to scream, breathe and suck on his mother's breast. During pregnancy, every woman faces certain difficulties, unpleasant symptoms that cause anxiety and make her feel worse. Late: All these symptoms are normal for every woman and will pass quickly enough. A little discomfort for 9 months cannot be compared with the fact that a long-awaited baby will be born, which will allow you to feel the joy of motherhood. Pregnancy is not a disease, so do not restrict yourself from your usual, but healthy lifestyle. To endure and give birth to a healthy baby, some advice will help:
Development of the fetus for weeks: Week 14 9000 9000 Fetal development: 15-18 weeks
Fetal development by weeks photo: week 15 Fetal development: 19-23 weeks
Fetal development by week photo: week 19 
Pseudo-feces are formed in the intestines of the fetus - meconium , kidneys begin to work. During this period, the brain develops very actively.
Fetal development by weeks photo: week 20 Fetal development: 24-27 weeks
Fetal development by week photo: week 27 
The eyes develop, open slightly and can perceive light and squint from direct sunlight. In girls, the labia majora do not yet cover the small ones, and in boys, the testicles have not yet descended into the scrotum. Fetal weight reaches 900–1200 g, and the length is 350 mm. Fetal development: 28-32 weeks
Fetal development: 33–37 weeks
Fetal development by week photo: week 36 
Muscle tone increases and the baby can turn and raise his head. On which, the hairs become silky. The child develops a grasping reflex. The lungs are fully developed. Fetal development: 38-42 weeks
Fetal development by weeks photo: week 40 
In boys, the testicles have descended into the scrotum, and in girls, the large labia cover the small ones. The weight of the fetus reaches 3200-3600 g, and the length is 480-520 mm. Weekly pregnancy calendar | Fetal development, trimesters
To bear and give birth to a healthy child, it is useful to know what happens in the body at all stages of pregnancy, how the fetus develops, what sensations and changes to expect. A weekly pregnancy calendar will help with this. This is a kind of guide for the expectant mother, who will accompany her for 40 weeks. It will contain interesting answers to questions, which will allow you to properly prepare for the upcoming birth and meeting with the baby. Fetal development by week: what happens
Doctors, with the correct calculation and date of the last menstruation, can determine the expected date of birth.
Weeks 1–2
This leads to the formation of a zygote. If it contains two X chromosomes, it is a girl; if it contains an X chromosome and a Y chromosome, it is a boy. There is no way to influence the gender of the child. After fertilization of the egg, a multicellular embryo is formed - the blastocyst. 
In some cases, during the implantation of the egg, a woman may have small spotting, which she takes for menstruation, so if there is a suspicion of a frowning conception, it is better to buy a test. 3–4 weeks
Starting from the 21st day, the formation of the brain and spinal cord takes place, and by the end of the first month, the umbilical cord appears, which holds the connection of the embryo with the future placenta. 5–6 weeks
The cartilaginous tissue is already formed, the skeletal system begins to develop, and the retina is formed in the eyes. 7–8 weeks
Large blood vessels, endocrine glands and the brain begin to develop. The embryo begins to move. By the 8th week, under the influence of the Y chromosome, the male gonads (testicles) are formed in the fetus, testosterone begins to be produced, which in the future will make it possible to determine the sex characteristics of the baby. 9–10 weeks
The fetus is actively growing, its weight can reach 10 g. Its brain is divided into hemispheres, the Rh factor and blood type are formed. By the 10th week of pregnancy, the formation of the oral cavity, rectum ends, the cerebellum develops. 11–12 weeks
13-14 weeks
15–16 weeks
After childbirth, these symptoms will disappear. 17–18 weeks
The child is actively growing and developing, begins to recognize sounds. 19-20 weeks
21–22 weeks
23-24 weeks
There is an increase in muscle and subcutaneous tissue. All internal organs and systems are almost completely formed. Only the lungs are immature, but by the beginning of the 24th week, the lung cells begin to produce a surfactant that lubricates the alveoli and prevents them from sticking together during inhalation and exhalation. But it is too small, so a child born during this period cannot breathe on its own. With deep prematurity, the baby will need breathing equipment, incubators, and artificial surfactant. Such children are nursed in perinatal centers. Their weight is 600–800 g, their height is about 25–30 cm. 25–26 weeks
27–28 weeks
The fetus weighs up to 1000 g, its height is about 35 cm. It cannot live on its own due to the immaturity of the lungs, so it still needs time. The movements of the baby are more active, and periods of wakefulness alternate with sleep. On ultrasound, you can clearly see the sex of the child, his movements and even a smile. 29–30 weeks
He already opens his eyes during wakefulness and closes during sleep. The iris is well formed, but the final eye color will be known after birth. 31-32 weeks
33–34 weeks
There is an increased risk of developing hemorrhoids, so it is important to avoid foods that can cause constipation. During this period, you can prepare for a trip to the hospital, collect the necessary things and in no case go far from home. 35-36 weeks
At this stage, it is recommended to visit a doctor at least once every 7-10 days. The child in utero begins to lose lubrication, the placenta ages. 37-38 weeks
39-40 weeks
What problems might a future mother face
In early pregnancy it can be:
Advice for pregnant women
