Your Baby's Development
The senses your baby will use to learn about the world are
developing daily. Taste buds have started to form on the tongue,
and the brain and nerve endings are formed enough so that the fetus
can feel touch. Your baby may experiment with this newfound sense
of touch by stroking his or her face or
sucking on a thumb
, as well as feeling other body parts and seeing how they move.
Your baby's reproductive system is continuing to develop,
too. In boys, the testes have begun to descend from the abdomen,
and in girls, the uterus and ovaries are in place and the vagina is
developed.
Your Body
If you haven't felt them already, you may soon notice your
uterus practicing for delivery with irregular, painless
contractions called Braxton Hicks contractions. You may feel a
squeezing sensation in your abdomen. Don't worry, though: Your
baby may be able to feel the contraction as it squeezes the uterus,
but Braxton Hicks contractions aren't dangerous or harmful. If,
however, the contractions become more intense, painful, or
frequent, contact your health care provider immediately because
painful, regular contractions may be a sign of preterm labor.
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.