Tuesday, March 4, 2014

What’s Happening in There? The Main Stages of Prenatal Development

Congratulations! You are now an expectant Mom. As you wait for your bouncing baby to be born, have you ever wondered how things go inside your belly? Well, it actually is important to know how your pregnancy moves on from conception to birth – so that proper care is administered. Since there are a lot of development stages, here is a much simpler version of the process.

First 10 Weeks:

Known as the fetal development stage, this period includes the formation of major organs including the brain, lungs, and the gastrointestinal tract. Limbs also begin to become visible as little buds protruding out of the fetus’ body. During this stage, the fetus doesn’t appear to look human yet.

Week 11-21:

Known as the gestation period, the 11th-21st weeks see the further development of physical features like the face, limbs and even the first senses – most notably, hearing. Yes, your baby can hear you talking to him whenever you do. Also, the baby’s genitals can now be differentiated by ultrasound, which allows for early gender detection. However, if you want a little bit of surprise, you can always tell your doctor to withhold the news of your baby’s sex until delivery.

Week 22-32:

During this stage, the bones, muscles, limbs and major organs have already developed. The eyes can now open and close – which can lead to amazing images on a 3D ultrasound where the baby seems to “look around” him. Developed muscles now allow him to move independently, and the respiratory tract is now ready to perform gas exchanges. In other words, the baby has begun to appear more human.

Week 33-42:

The final ten weeks of prenatal development prepares your baby for his big day. At this stage, all his limbs, major organs, and distinguishing physical features are developed. He also now has a headful of hair. Being an expectant Mom is considered one of the best feelings in the world.

A healthy baby is both a gift and a responsibility – it is your duty to guide, nurture and make him appreciate the world he will live in.