PREGNANCY
THE DIFFERENT STAGES OF PREGNANCY
A woman may go through different hormonal changes during pregnancy. Various signs and symptoms that she may have to deal with are common to healthy pregnancies. The stages involved infetus development also follow a familiar pattern. However, in certain cases pregnancy can be confusing for a new mother-to-be. Whether you are expecting, are concerned for your friend, or are just interested to know more about different pregnancy stages, here is a detailed description of the various stages of pregnancy. Pregnancy begins when a fertilized egg is implanted in the uterus and it is measured from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP). Stages of pregnancy can be broadly divided into 3 trimestersand each trimester last for about 13 weeks.
First month
During the first month, ovulation happens and the egg travels down the fallopian tube. If it meets a sperm, it would combine to form a cell. The fertilized egg is divided into more cells to form a ball. The ball of cells is attached to the lining of the uterus and the process is known as implantation.
Second month
The ball of cells further develops into an embryo in the beginning of the sixth week. During this time, the embryo is less than 0,5 cm (1/5 inch) long. Basic circulatory system develops and neural tube begins to form. The umbilical cord also begins to develop during this time. When the foetus reaches week 7, the heart has formed and the arms can easily bend at the elbows.
Third month
Third month include weeks 9-10 and weeks 11-12. During weeks 9-10, the foetus measures around 2,5 – 4 cm (1-1.5 inches). Fingers and toes become longer and the umbilical cord connects the foetus to the placenta. Nutrients are absorbed by the placenta from the woman’s bloodstream. When the foetus reaches weeks 11-12, it can now be measured from the top of its head to buttocks and this is known as crown-rump length (CRL). It is now5 – 7,5 cm (2-3 inches) long and its finger nails begin to grow. Spontaneous movements are made by the foetus and its bones starts getting stronger.
Fourth month
Beginning of second trimester is marked with the onset of the fourth month. At 13-14 weeks, the foetus measures about 7,5 cm (3 inches). At this time, the foetus’ sex can be determined by an ultrasound. Growth of small hairs can be seen and the roof of the mouth also begins to form. The foetus is about 11,5 cm (4.5 inches)long and weighs around 85 gram (3 ounces)during the 15th week and in female foetuses, the eggs begins to form in the ovaries.
Fifth month
In the fifth month, the foetus reaches a CRL of about 16,5 cm (6.5 inches) and the body is covered with fine downy hairs known as Lanugo. The skin of the foetus is covered and protected by vernixcaseosa, a greasy material. In this month, the mother can also experience foetal movements, generally known as quickening.
Sixth month
The foetus grows larger in size and has a CRL of 18 cm(7 inches)with the onset of the 21st week. Blood cells are formed in the bone marrow and taste buds also begin to develop. During weeks 23-24, the foetus reaches a CRL of 20 cm (8 inches)and weighs around 700 grams (1 ½ pounds). Eyebrows usually develop around this time and real hairs also starts growing on the head.
Seventh month
This is the time when women usually experience back pains. At the seventh month, the foetusbegins to develop faster and at the 27th week he has a CRL of approximately 25 cm (10 inches). However the eyelids are still fused together up-till the 28th week.
Eight month
The eighth month marks the beginning of the third trimester and the chances of pre-term birth survival goes up to 90%. The foetus is about 28 cm (11 inches) long when it reaches weeks 31-32 and the lanugo begins to fall. The eyes begin to open and close and the foetus can also sense changes in light. At this time,the foetus weighs around 1,30 – 1,70 kg (3-3 ¾ pounds) and is gaining weight quickly.
Ninth month
The foetus weighs around 2,5 – 4,0 kg ( 6 - 9 pounds ) and has a CRL of approximately 32 cm(12.5 inches). The skin of the foetus is no longer wrinkled and his organs are ready to function. The foetus may turn into a head-down position by the end of the 37th week. Getting excited to meet your new born? It won’t be long till you will see your baby.