Pregnant: How is your baby developing?
First trimester
The first thirteen weeks of your pregnancy are the first trimester. The first two weeks are a gift, because you start counting from the first day of your last period and the insemination always takes place after this period. There isn’t any certainty as to when it happens, but you usually ovulate halfway through your cycle. After insemination the ovum will split. After only nine weeks, the embryo has become a fetus and the major organ systems are already formed. After three months, your baby will be about 8 centimeters. The head of your baby is growing in proportion to the body and the baby is moving and kicking with the legs.
It is recommended to take additional folic acid during the first trimester. If possible you should start with folic acid when you are trying to get pregnant.
How do you feel?
If you realize how quickly your baby is growing and developing, it isn’t surprising if you feel tired. Your breasts may be painful and you may experience intestinal complaints. Some women are really sick during this stage of their pregnancy, while others might feel out of balance. This is caused by the hormones and you can rest assure that this is normal and part of being pregnant. Just be kind to yourself. Dive into your bed early and watch endless videos of babies developing in the womb. It is a lovely way to vent your emotions.
Second trimester
The second trimester takes place from the fourteen until twenty-seven weeks. In the second trimester your baby really starts to grow. You develop a belly and feel your baby kicking for the first time. You can also start to hear your baby’s heart beat. A truly magical moment. During this period, your baby’s genitals will develop and at the 20-week ultrasound you will be able to see if it is a boy or a girl (If you want to know it of course). During this echo your baby’s development will be extensively investigated. It is wise to prepare for this, as you will likely go to the appointment with some anticipation. You will be excited to see your baby for the second time, but it is primarily a medical check. Just hold your breath when the doctor examines your unborn baby and trust that everything will be fine.
At the end of the second trimester, your baby will be around 23 centimeter and weigh anbout 380 grams.
How do you feel?
Most women feel much better during the second trimester. The greatest risk of a miscarriage has past and nausea and fatigue will occur lest frequent for most women. This is really the trimester to properly enjoy your pregnancy and use the additional energy that it provides for fun activities, like decorating the nursery for example. This is also a good time to take a pregnancy course.
Third trimester
In the last trimester your baby’s weight will quadruple. This means that your belly will really grow significantly. The baby opens his eyes and is fully developed. This stage is really about growing and the maturing of the organs. Did you know that at this stage babies in the womb can actually dream when they sleep?
At the final stage of your pregnancy your baby is getting ready for his trip into the world. Childbirth; An exciting time.
How do you feel?
In the last trimester being pregnant can be difficult. You can become forgetful, suffer from your pelvis and the baby putting pressure on your stomach, ribs or respiratory tract. Being pregnant is really not something that you should take lightly, so be realistic in what you can and can’t handle.
Kabrita sympathizes with all pregnant women. It is not only a magic period, but can also be quite heavy. Try to enjoy this period and be kind to yourself!
