Your Baby's Development
Until now, the embryo has been a mass of cells, but by this point
in your pregnancy a distinct shape begins to form. The neural tube,
which will eventually form into the spinal cord and brain, runs
from the top to the bottom of the embryo. A bulge in the center of
the embryo will develop into your baby's heart. At this time,
the placenta develops. It is through the placenta and its
fingerlike projections, called chorionic villi, that an embryo
receives nourishment from its mother.
Your Body
Even if nausea hasn't hit you yet, you'll want to steer
clear of certain foods when you're pregnant. Foodborne
illnesses, such as
listeriosis
and
toxoplasmosis
, may cause
birth defects
or even miscarriage. Here are some foods you'll want to
avoid:
- soft cheeses such as feta, goat, brie, Camembert, and blue
cheese
- unpasteurized milk and juices
- raw or undercooked meats, including hot dogs and deli
meats
- raw eggs or foods containing raw eggs, including mousse and
tiramisu
- raw shellfish
- paté
Toxoplasmosis can also be spread from soiled cat litter boxes,
so try to have someone else clean the litter box during your
pregnancy.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2009 The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth. All rights reserved.