Your Baby's Development
Your baby weighs about 6 pounds, 6 ounces (2,900 grams) by now and
measures about 13.4 inches (34 cm) in length from crown to rump.
Fat is still accumulating, although growth is slower now. You may
notice that your weight gain has decreased or ceased.
Since your baby has had the muscles to suck and swallow amniotic
fluid, waste material has been accumulating in his or her
intestines. Cells shed from the intestines, dead skin cells, and
lanugo hair are some of the waste products that contribute to
meconium, a greenish-black substance that constitutes your
baby's first bowel movement.
If you're having a boy, his testicles have descended into
the scrotum, unless he has a condition called
undescended testicle
. If you're having a girl, the labia are now completely
developed.
Your Body
Because your baby is engaged in your pelvis, your bladder is
extremely compressed, making frequent bathroom trips a
necessity.
Have you and your partner made a decision about
circumcision
? Circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the foreskin of
the penis in male babies. For some parents the decision to
circumcise is a religious one. For others, the choice is not as
easily made. Talk to your health care provider about the issues
surrounding circumcision, including pain relief options for the
baby.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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