Your Baby's Development
The tail at the bottom of your baby's spinal cord has shrunk
and almost disappeared by this week. In contrast, your baby's
head has been growing - it's quite large compared with the rest
of the body and it curves onto the chest. By this week, your baby
measures about 0.6 to 0.7 inches (16 to 18 millimeters) from crown
to rump and weighs around 0.1 ounces (3 grams). The tip of the nose
has developed and can be seen in profile, and flaps of skin over
the eyes have begun to shape into eyelids, which will become more
noticeable in the next few weeks.
The digestive system continues to develop. The anus is forming,
and the intestines are growing longer. In addition, internal
reproductive features, such as testes and ovaries, start to form
this week.
Your baby may make some first movements this week as muscles
develop. If you had an
ultrasound
now, those movements might even be visible, but you won't be
able to feel them for several more weeks.
Your Body
In preparation for your first prenatal visit, take the time to
familiarize yourself with your family's health history and to
review your medical records. Have you had any chronic illnesses,
allergies, or surgeries? Are you currently taking any prescription
medications? Do you know of any genetic disorders that run in your
family? Has your menstrual cycle been regular, and have you had any
past pregnancies? Do you smoke or drink
alcohol
? What are your exercise habits? These are the things your health
care provider will want to discuss with you, so it will help to
have this information ready when you go.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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