Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative time for both mom and baby. Over the course of nine months, the body undergoes remarkable changes to accommodate the growing fetus. The baby, too, experiences incredible growth and development, from a tiny embryo to a fully formed newborn.
Here is a month-by-month overview of the changes that occur during pregnancy, both for mom and baby:
Month 1:
- Mom: Morning sickness, fatigue, and breast tenderness are common symptoms.
- Baby: The embryo is about the size of a poppy seed and is beginning to develop major organs, such as the heart and brain.
Month 2:
- Mom: The uterus is growing and may start to cause abdominal discomfort.
- Baby: The embryo is now about the size of a peanut and has developed facial features and limbs.
Month 3:
- Mom: The baby bump is starting to show and fatigue may improve.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a lemon and has developed all of its major organs.
Month 4:
- Mom: The baby's heartbeat can now be heard with a Doppler ultrasound.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a banana and is starting to move around.
Month 5:
- Mom: The baby bump is growing rapidly and Braxton Hicks contractions may begin.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a grapefruit and is starting to develop its senses.
Month 6:
- Mom: The baby is starting to put on weight and stretch marks may develop.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a coconut and is starting to develop a sleep cycle.
Month 7:
- Mom: The baby is getting bigger and heavier, which may cause back pain and shortness of breath.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a pineapple and is starting to develop its immune system.
Month 8:
- Mom: The baby is dropping lower in the pelvis, which may cause pressure on the bladder and rectum.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a watermelon and is fully developed.
Month 9:
- Mom: The baby is full term and ready to be born.
- Baby: The fetus is now about the size of a cantaloupe and is ready to meet the world.
Changes in Mom's Body During Pregnancy
In addition to the changes mentioned above, there are a number of other physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy. These changes can vary from woman to woman, but some common changes include:
- Weight gain: Most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy. This weight gain is necessary to support the growing baby and placenta.
- Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. This is due to the hormonal changes that are occurring in the body.
- Morning sickness: Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms in the first trimester. These symptoms usually subside by the end of the third month.
- Breast tenderness: The breasts may become enlarged and tender during pregnancy. This is due to the increased production of hormones.
- Mood swings: Mood swings are common during pregnancy. This is due to the hormonal changes that are occurring in the body.
- Stretch marks: Stretch marks may develop on the abdomen, breasts, and hips during pregnancy. This is due to the rapid stretching of the skin.
Changes in Baby's Development During Pregnancy
The baby undergoes incredible growth and development during pregnancy. Here is a month-by-month overview of the major milestones:
- Month 1: The embryo develops all of its major organs, including the heart, brain, and lungs.
- Month 2: The embryo develops facial features and limbs.
- Month 3: The fetus develops all of its external body parts, such as the fingers, toes, and ears.
- Month 4: The fetus begins to move around.
- Month 5: The fetus develops its senses, such as sight, hearing, and taste.
- Month 6: The fetus develops its sleep cycle.
- Month 7: The fetus develops its immune system.
- Month 8: The fetus fully develops.
- Month 9: The fetus is full term and ready to be born.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care is important for both mom and baby. Regular prenatal visits allow your healthcare provider to monitor your health and the health of your baby. Prenatal care also provides an opportunity to learn about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.