The pregnancy has come. For most women, this is a joyful event and two coveted stripes on a quick test is just the beginning of a difficult, responsible and interesting path in life. Ahead of 9 months of pleasant expectation, excitement, fears and joys. Getting pregnant, carrying and giving birth to a healthy child is the main goal of any normal woman. For the convenience of doctors and expectant mothers, the entire calendar period, consisting of 9 months, is divided into trimesters of pregnancy. Conventionally, each trimester is three months of pregnancy.
Terms of pregnancy
A trimester lasts a certain number of weeks. In gynecologists, it is customary to calculate the period in obstetric weeks, which begin their countdown from the first day of the last menstruation. Any table or calendar for pregnant women is built taking into account the obstetric gestational age. The embryonic period, the actual conception, occurs, as a rule, 2 weeks later, but not everyone knows the exact date.
The obstetric period is 280 days or 40 weeks, which is equal to 10 obstetric months, consisting of 28 days. The division into trimesters of pregnancy is also convenient in monitoring the pregnant woman and the development of the fetus. To determine the expected date of birth, they also use calculations from the last menstruation. In the future, the period is specified with the help of ultrasound and features of the development of the fetus.
How many weeks are in each trimester? When does one end and the next start? All these questions are of interest to any pregnant woman, especially if such a condition for a woman is the first time.
Let's take a closer look at each of these periods. What they carry and what to expect for mother and future baby in each of them.
First trimester
He brings the woman the joyful news of the pregnancy. He is extremely important. It was at this time that many dangers and threats lie in wait for the mother and the unborn child. Fertilization occurs, attachment of the fetal egg to the wall of the uterus, laying and formation of all vital systems.
At any of these stages, unpleasant events can occur. The most dangerous periods in relation to miscarriages are the time of attachment of the fetal egg at 3–4 weeks and hormonal changes at 8–12 weeks. A woman's breasts swell, many begin toxicosis (early preeclampsia), mood changes, increased emotionality.
The embryo develops rapidly. The laying of the nervous system begins, at 4–5 weeks a small heart is already beating. The first trimester ends at week 12, by which time the fetus has:
- Spine.
- hemispheres of the brain.
- The organs of the endocrine system (and are already working hard).
- Distinguishable features of the face and the first movements appear.
- The gender of the future baby is formed.
- Marigolds grow on the fingers.
- The rudiments of teeth appear.
The first three-month period of time you need to carefully monitor your condition, especially during dangerous periods. For any pain, spotting, cramps in the lower abdomen, you should immediately seek medical help. Naturally, you must already be registered in the antenatal clinic.
Sex during this period should be gentle and delicate, especially if a woman has a threat of abortion. But leaving your man without attention is also not worth it. How much to have sex, each couple decides for themselves. Mutual care and love is needed. Pregnancy is not a pathology, but a physiological process.
Second trimester
The second trimester of pregnancy begins at week 13 and ends at week 27. This is the most blessed time for most pregnant women. Early toxicosis and the most dangerous periods are behind, the stomach is still small. The expectant mother has a lot of energy and strength for further successful bearing. The second trimester of pregnancy changes a woman, she blossoms, her walk changes, her tummy begins to grow.
When the center of gravity changes, the load on the spine increases, and as a result, back pain is possible. The enlarged uterus begins to displace other organs located in the abdominal cavity. Sometimes heartburn appears at this time, due to the size of the uterus, urination becomes more frequent (it presses on the bladder). Frequent constipation. But this is all temporary: changes in the body associated with pregnancy can and should be tolerated.
Sex during this period is the most wonderful. Toxicosis and the threat of miscarriages do not interfere, you can safely practice any kind of sex, this will strengthen and bring the spouses together and will not do any harm, but only benefit if there are no special contraindications for sex due to the health of the expectant mother. Sex is an additional opportunity to show feelings for each other during this crucial period. Yes, and unwanted pregnancy can not be afraid.
The second trimester of pregnancy is characterized by increased growth and development of all fetal systems. In this period, the mother feels the first movements of her child. In a baby, the 2nd trimester of pregnancy was spent on the formation of the excretory system, the kidneys, intestines are functioning, the endocrine system is working. The cerebral cortex is actively formed, the intellect and the main sense organs are born.
The placenta is already well developed and meets all physiological requirements. But there is one important point: if it is incorrectly located, there is a danger of detachment. During this period, it is important to undergo genetic screening, especially for women at risk of pathological pregnancy. If this is not neglected, the second trimester of pregnancy will leave only pleasant impressions.
Which baby, when does the second trimester of pregnancy end? It already weighs approximately 1.2 kg. His height (or rather, length) is about 35 cm. You can clearly determine the sex with ultrasound.
third trimester
The third trimester is calculated from the 28th week and lasts until the very birth. How many weeks are given to a particular woman for this period, only nature knows. At this time, the tummy grows significantly due to the growth of the fetus and an increase in amniotic fluid.
The baby hears you, his hair grows, his movements become more rare, he takes a permanent position and gradually prepares for going out. The body is covered with lubrication for successful advancement in the birth canal. All organs and systems are formed, he breathes, sleeps and is awake, feels the taste.
For a woman, the third period is not easy, it is harder for her to walk, it is uncomfortable to sleep, fatigue and shortness of breath quickly set in. But the joy of the upcoming birth and patient waiting give strength at the finish line. In this period, there are dangers of late toxicosis, edema, the appearance of protein in the urine, rapid weight gain due to pathological edema, and high blood pressure. You need to take good care of yourself to avoid further problems. Weighing and control visits to the doctor are mandatory.
Sex during this period should not be too active and extreme. But you shouldn't give it up either. Some couples, with the threat of overgestation, are recommended to have active sex in order to stimulate labor. At the end of the third trimester, the woman will receive the desired result - the long-awaited child.
first trimester
Fetal development at 1 week of pregnancy
Of course, it is still too early to talk about the development of the fetus - there has not been a conception yet, and, most likely, the next menstruation is still going on. If conception occurs in this cycle, it will be known about it no earlier than in 3-4 weeks (and then it will already be possible to listen to the body: the first signs of pregnancy will gradually appear).
And today, one of the thousands of eggs - the one that will be fertilized - has not even left the ovary yet. In the first days of the menstrual cycle, the growth of one of the primary follicles began: at this time, on the 7th-8th day of the cycle, it is possible, if necessary, to conduct an ultrasound examination to determine whether a dominant follicle has been identified, which will burst in a few days and ovulation will occur.
Mom's condition at 1 week of pregnancy
You also need to prepare for pregnancy - and if the expectant mother has not done this yet, it's time to start. First of all, it is important to reconsider the way of life: give up bad habits - smoking, including passive, drinking alcohol. It is better to discuss the intake of any medications with your doctor - many medications are contraindicated during pregnancy. But you can start taking folic acid right now - it contributes to the proper growth and development of the embryo.
2 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 2 weeks of gestation
It will soon be clear whether conception has occurred - at the time of ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary, the most active sperm cell will win its first race in life and fertilize it. The gender of the baby will be determined by the future dad - the XY sex chromosome is included in his genetic set, when combined with the chromosomes of the future mother XX, a girl will be born, XY - a boy. Of course, there is an opinion that the sex of the child can be planned in different ways, but none of them, unfortunately, has scientific confirmation. But it makes sense to visit a geneticist even before conception - at the consultation, he will analyze your family history and give recommendations about possible risks.
Mom's condition at 2 weeks pregnant
Most likely, ovulation will occur next week or at the end of this. To determine the days favorable for conception, you can measure the basal temperature - immediately after menstruation, it stays within 36.6-36.8, that is, below 37 degrees, and before ovulation it decreases by several degrees, and then rises sharply to 37-37, 2. Another way is to count according to the calendar: ovulation usually occurs 14 days before the start of the next menstruation.
3 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 3 weeks pregnant
At the beginning of its development, the embryo does not yet look like a person at all - it is rather a cluster of cells that can only be seen with the most powerful microscope. As a result of the fusion of the egg and sperm (it is he who determines the sex of the child), a zygote is formed - a cell from which all 100 thousand billion cells of the child's body will develop in the future. The zygote begins to split and at the same time move along the fallopian tube towards the uterus. On the third day from conception, a fertilized egg consists of 16 cells, and two days later - already from 250. On day 6-7, the fetal egg will begin to "sprout" blood vessels into the uterine mucosa to provide nutrition for the unborn child. Starting next week, all the substances necessary for growth and development, the fetus will receive from the mother.
Mom's condition at 3 weeks pregnant
The first signs of pregnancy appear: increased sensitivity or soreness of the breast, fatigue. However, it is worth remembering that the same changes in well-being often precede the onset of menstruation. In the first days after conception, the mother's body begins to produce the so-called "early pregnancy factor" (in English - EPF). This substance avoids the attack of the mother's immune system on fetal cells that have a different gene structure.
Pay attention at 3 weeks pregnant
If pregnancy is planned, at the 3rd week of the cycle, you can start taking folic acid, vitamin E and iodomarin, but it is better to make a nutrition plan with foods containing folic acid, vitamin E and iodine in the required quantities. In the event of pregnancy, the basal temperature graph by the end of the 3rd week will show a subfebrile temperature (about 37 degrees) - as in the period of ovulation. If the temperature returned to normal - most likely, conception did not occur. However, a slightly elevated basal temperature can signal not only pregnancy, but also a mild cold.
Risk factors at 3 weeks pregnant
After ovulation, especially if there is a possibility of pregnancy, you should not take an x-ray, take potent drugs (for example, antiviral, psychotropic, etc.). It is advisable to write down the names of all the medicines that the expectant mother takes - if pregnancy occurs, it makes sense to show this list to the antenatal clinic doctor at the first appointment.
4 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 4 weeks of gestation
This week, the so-called extra-embryonic organs develop: the chorion, amnion and yolk sac. They are needed in order to provide nutrition, respiration and protection of the unborn child from external influences. The embryo itself has a length of 0.36 mm (at the beginning of the week) to 1 mm (at the end), and is similar in shape to a disk consisting of three germ layers. The inner leaf (endoderm) is responsible for the formation of the lungs, liver, digestive system, pancreas. The middle layer (mesoderm) works on the development of the skeleton, muscular system, kidneys, blood vessels and heart. From the outer sheet (ectoderm) in the future, skin, hair, eyes, tooth enamel and the nervous system of the child will be created. By the end of this week, the baby's head is forming.
Mom's condition at 4 weeks pregnant
Many women at the very beginning of pregnancy have inexplicable irritability, increased fatigue, mammary glands swell, nipples become unusually sensitive. For these manifestations, the corpus luteum is responsible, which was formed in the ovary after the release of the egg from it. The yellow body actively produces progesterone, which changes the hormonal background of the expectant mother. In addition, the mother's body begins to produce a new hormone - human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). It is detected in the body after the implantation of the embryo into the wall of the uterus - first in the blood, and a little later in the woman's urine.
Pay attention to the 4th week of pregnancy
With the help of a blood test, the presence of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the mother's body can be determined already on the 10th day of pregnancy, but it is still too early to consult a doctor to confirm pregnancy. Pharmacy tests are able to determine the presence of hCG in the urine only 2-2.5 weeks after conception. Therefore, if a pharmacy test at the end of 4 weeks did not show two strips, this does not mean that there is no pregnancy. Tests may give incorrect results due to improper storage conditions or too low sensitivity of the control layer. It is worth remembering that pharmacy tests show the most accurate result in the morning, when the concentration of hCG in the urine is highest.
Risk factors at 4 weeks pregnant
Drinking alcohol and smoking are not the most useful habits of the expectant mother, but at the 3-4th week they do not affect the fetus, as it feeds and develops at the expense of its own resources. However, already now, if there is a possibility of pregnancy, it is worth giving up alcoholic beverages. You should also exclude radiographic studies and taking drugs, in the annotation of which there is a contraindication "pregnancy".
5 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Baby development at 5 weeks pregnant
The formation of the internal organs of the embryo begins: the liver, pancreas, upper respiratory tract (larynx and trachea) and heart. Highly sensitive ultrasound machines with a transvaginal sensor this week can show the dorsal cord and the so-called neural tube, which will become, respectively, the spine and spinal cord of the baby. Along the neural tube, somites develop - tissue segments from which muscle tissue will subsequently arise. The yolk sac begins to produce gonoblasts - the primary germ cells, which in the future will become sperm if a boy is born, or eggs if it is a girl. The fetal egg occupies a quarter of the volume of the uterus, while the embryo itself resembles a cylinder about 2 mm long.
Mom's condition at 5 weeks pregnant
The mother's body begins to react more and more actively to pregnancy. Headaches may become more frequent, drowsiness, nausea and even vomiting may appear, and appetite may decrease. These are signs of early toxicosis of pregnancy. And their cause is hormonal changes caused by an increase in the level of the hormone progesterone. In addition, the placenta produces a special hormone - placental lactogen, it actively affects the woman's metabolism. Thus, the placenta and the fetus take over the management of the metabolism of the mother's body, and he, in turn, resists such interference, provoking toxicosis. Women with diseases of the liver and gastrointestinal tract experience early toxicosis more often than others.
Complications of pregnancy at 5 weeks pregnant
Normally, nausea and vomiting can be felt 2-3 times a day in the morning, most often on an empty stomach. Therefore, in order to avoid morning vomiting, it is recommended to have a snack before getting out of bed - this will reduce the urge to nausea. There are several ways to alleviate the manifestations of early toxicosis. For example, you can use physiotherapy, herbal medicine and aromatherapy. In particular, inhalation of ginger essential oil vapors (whether crushed in the palms or dissolved in boiling water during inhalation) can reduce nausea. Sometimes the therapist can offer immunocytotherapy: during this procedure, the woman is injected subcutaneously with the child's father's lymphocytes (the condition is relieved in about a day), or drug treatment. However, most often toxicosis is advised to simply “endure”. It usually goes away with the start of the second trimester, after the 12th week of pregnancy.
Diagnostic tests at 5 weeks of gestation
Many women worry about whether their pregnancy will be ectopic or not developing (“frozen”). At this time, it is still almost impossible to find out whether this is so, so it is too early to consult a doctor. It is recommended to do this at 6-7 weeks, when the diagnosis becomes more revealing, unless there are signs of any disorders - pain, spotting.
Family relationships at 5 weeks pregnant
The lifestyle of the family will now change - the future father and mother will need time to get used to their new roles. You should not attach particular importance to conflicts that may occur in the first days after receiving news of pregnancy. Often the reaction of the father of the child is not quite the one that the expectant mother dreams of. It makes sense to be patient - when the first shock passes, the man will regain the ability to constructive dialogue. Do not be upset if the father of the child behaves as if there is no pregnancy - he does not feel the changes in the body that the expectant mother feels, so one can hardly expect full empathy from him. Soon he will see how his stomach grows, feel the movements of the baby - and everything will change. It is better to give the husband time to fully realize his pending fatherhood. And to help him with this, you can calculate the approximate date of birth with him: for example, subtracting 3 months from the day the last menstruation began and adding 7 days.
6 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 6 weeks gestation
The size of the baby (from the crown to the sacrum) reaches 4-6 mm. The child is freely placed in the fetal bladder and is connected to the uterus with the help of the umbilical cord that has formed these days. During this week, the unborn child resembles a fish embryo - it has gills and a tail, which then, in the process of development, will disappear. At the 6th week of pregnancy, the heart of the embryo begins to beat. The heart rate is from 100 to 160 beats per minute, which is almost 2 times higher than in an adult. The mouth, nose and ears are already forming in the child, the rudiments of the brain, liver, pancreas, lungs and stomach are developing. The liver begins to produce blood cells, and the brain begins to control the work of the muscles and the heart.
Mom's condition at 6 weeks pregnant
Early toxicosis is gaining momentum: intolerance to certain odors appears, increased salivation. A slight tingling sensation may be felt in the chest as the mammary glands are preparing to start producing milk in 8 months. The areolas around the nipples will most likely start to darken. To improve well-being, doctors recommend changing the diet: eat more often, up to 7 times a day, but in small portions. To avoid morning sickness, the first breakfast can be arranged right in bed. Taking vitamins for pregnant women is best done at a time of day when the manifestations of toxicosis are minimal. In order to make up for the loss of fluid and salts in case of vomiting, it makes sense to eat juicy fruits and vegetables: watermelon, melon, persimmon, pears, cucumbers and tomatoes.
Doctor visit at 6 weeks pregnant
6-7 weeks is the ideal time for the first visit to the doctor. Most likely, the doctor will perform the first ultrasound to rule out an ectopic pregnancy, non-developing pregnancy, and the so-called "hydatidiform mole" (an anomaly in which there is no pregnancy, and the level of hCG is very high). Also, the doctor will determine the size of the pelvis of the future mother, make a family and obstetric history. You can prepare for a visit to the antenatal clinic. It makes sense to make a list of diseases suffered in childhood, to find out how the mother's birth went. It is also worth finding out whether there are genetic diseases or abnormalities in the family of the pregnant woman or the husband's family (hemophilia, color blindness), whether there were twins in the family. All this will help the doctor in filling out the card. Also, at 6-7 weeks, it is already possible to determine a multiple pregnancy.
Diagnostic tests at 6 weeks of gestation
During the first visit to the doctor, a blood test from a vein is prescribed. The so-called TORCH-complex will allow you to determine whether there are antibodies to toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes in the mother's blood. Rubella is most dangerous to the fetus if the infection occurred during pregnancy (especially in the first trimester), so if antibodies are not found in the mother's blood, then she and all her relatives should avoid interaction with potential carriers of the infection. Carriers of the herpes virus are, according to statistics, up to 90 percent of people - the analysis will show whether herpes is currently in a latent or acute phase, or whether the primary infection occurred already during pregnancy. The attending physician will tell you what consequences these infections can have for the development of the child.
Risk factors at 6 weeks pregnant
An alarming signal may be a sharp cessation of the onset of toxicosis: this may indicate that the pregnancy has ceased to develop. If you have noted the development of a herpes infection (“cold” on the lips or wings of the nose), in no case should you use antiviral drugs without a doctor's prescription.
Family relationships at 6 weeks pregnant
The husband can be so “imbued” with the new state of his wife that he begins to feel the manifestations of toxicosis with her. The future father may experience headaches, weakness, fatigue and even nausea. It makes sense to switch the husband to more constructive experiences: for example, entrust him with taking care of healthy products for the expectant mother. If a cat lives in the house, the husband also needs to take care of cleaning the cat tray: until the results of the analysis for toxoplasmosis are received, it is better not to contact a potential source of infection.
Pay attention at 6 weeks pregnant
During pregnancy, you should review the diet, reduce the consumption of fried foods, as well as spicy and smoked foods. In the morning it is useful to drink non-carbonated water (to ease the manifestations of toxicosis, you can add lemon juice to it), and during the day - water, herbal teas, fresh juices. The morning menu should contain as many foods containing coarse fiber as possible (for example, cereals, grain bread). It is better to eat often, but in small portions. The daily diet of the expectant mother should include dried fruits and sour-milk products (to reduce intestinal problems), cottage cheese, fish (to compensate for calcium deficiency), eggs and lean meat, fruits, fresh vegetables. Light "night" meals are allowed shortly before going to bed.
7 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 7 weeks gestation
Within 7 weeks, the child almost doubles in size - from 6 to 11-12 mm. By the end of the week, he weighs about 0.8 g. Hands and feet appeared on his arms and legs - although outwardly they still resemble flippers. Both hemispheres of the brain continue to develop. The heart is divided into two chambers and protrudes from the body. Bronchial rudiments appeared in the lungs, the intestines are actively growing, kidneys are being formed.
Mom's condition at 7 weeks pregnant
There may be cramps and even pain in the lower abdomen, as the uterus is constantly growing. Compared to the state before pregnancy, it has almost doubled in size. Blood volume and total body fluid volume also increase. This, together with increased uterine pressure on the bladder, leads to more frequent urination. Mucus in the cervix becomes thick, forming the so-called mucous plug. This cork creates a protective barrier between the external environment and the “microworld” of the embryo, and the discharge of the cork will become one of the harbingers of childbirth.
Diagnostic tests at 7 weeks of gestation
Week 7 is the optimal time for the first visit to the doctor. Most often, at the first appointment, a blood test from a vein is prescribed for infections and hormones. The so-called TORCH-complex will allow you to determine whether there are antibodies to toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes in the mother's blood. Usually, a blood test for HPV (human viral papillomatosis) is also prescribed. On ultrasound, it is already possible to determine whether the pregnancy is developing correctly. The opinions of doctors about the need for ultrasound differ: some consider it a completely safe diagnostic manipulation, others believe that the child experiences discomfort during the procedure. There is no exact answer yet, whether ultrasound causes discomfort to the unborn baby.
Doctor visit at 7 weeks pregnant
As a rule, at the first visit to a gynecologist, a pregnant woman receives referrals to a therapist (to study the general condition of the body), an otolaryngologist, a dentist (to detect and timely treat caries and foci of inflammation) and an ophthalmologist (he will give an opinion on the state of the fundus, and determine whether independent childbirth is possible or a caesarean section is indicated). It makes sense to visit these specialists at the beginning of pregnancy in order to solve possible health problems in time, or, in the case of chronic diseases, to choose an individual monitoring program from doctors.
Pay attention to the 7th week of pregnancy
There is also an alternative to the traditional female consultation: paid medical centers. They can observe the entire pregnancy from start to finish, undergo all tests and routine examinations and receive an exchange card - but only if the medical center is licensed to provide such services. The only thing that medical centers cannot provide is a birth certificate. But they are obliged to issue it in the antenatal clinic upon presentation of an exchange card. However, a birth certificate may not be needed if the birth is paid, under a VHI contract.
Risk factors at 7 weeks pregnant
The reason for an urgent visit to the doctor should be any, even light, bleeding or discharge of an unusual color or volume - they may indicate a threat of miscarriage or developmental disorders of the embryo. Drinking alcohol before 12 weeks is completely contraindicated: the state of alcoholic intoxication leads to mild hypoxia, which can disrupt the complex process of laying the most important organs of the child.
Legal issues at 7 weeks pregnant
Starting from the 7-8th week, you can inform your colleagues and superiors about your pregnancy - and thus “insure” yourself against layoffs. A pregnant woman (as well as a woman on maternity leave), according to the legislation of the Russian Federation, cannot be fired. However, in the case of work under a contract, at the end of the contract, the employer has the right not to renew the contract, regardless of whether the employee is pregnant.
8 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 8 weeks gestation
The length of the baby from the crown to the buttocks is already 14-20 mm. The rudiments of fingers appeared on the hands and feet, the genitals are formed, bones and joints develop, salivary glands are laid. The formation of the heart is completed and its communication with large blood vessels improves. The stomach descends into the abdominal cavity and begins to "grow" with nerve elements, which will then be necessary for digestion.
Mom's condition at 8 weeks pregnant
The breast begins to grow - the same hormone progesterone is responsible for its preparation for lactation, which is becoming more and more in the mother's body every week. The glandular tissue of the breast begins to partially replace the fat. Weakness, dizziness, loss of strength are possible, some pregnant women may have problems with sleep in the 8th week. Walking in the fresh air will help improve your well-being: 10-15 minutes of a quiet walk after dinner will help you cope with insomnia.
Pay attention to the 8th week of pregnancy
Pain in the lower abdomen and in the pelvic region may increase. For pain in the buttocks, lower back or hips, the sciatic nerve responds to an increase in the size of the uterus. This pain can be relieved by lying on the opposite side, thereby reducing the pressure of the uterus on the nerve. Many women note increased salivation, nasal congestion ("rhinitis of pregnancy"), skin itching. By themselves, these manifestations of toxicosis are not dangerous, although they cause inconvenience. Better not to self-medicate. It makes sense to report these problems to the doctor, he will tell you ways to improve your well-being.
Risk factors at 8 weeks pregnant
The first trimester, and in particular up to 8 weeks, is the time when the threat of miscarriage is most likely. In case of cramping or pulling pain in the abdomen, severe back pain or bloody discharge, you should immediately consult a doctor. Timely medical care can often prevent a miscarriage. However, it is worth remembering that often a miscarriage occurs due to serious genetic abnormalities of the fetus - a natural mechanism is triggered to prevent the birth of unviable babies.
Diagnostic tests at 8 weeks of gestation
For the first "acquaintance" with the unborn child, you can choose not only a simple, but also a three-dimensional ultrasound. In some medical centers, they not only do an ultrasound examination, but also give parents a photo of the unborn child and the first video recording with his participation. However, it is worth remembering that three-dimensional ultrasound is primarily a diagnostic procedure, you should not resort to it too often, just to look at the child. In addition, the result of such a study will not be a real photograph, but a picture created using a computer program from the control points specified by the doctor - so the reliability of the image of the child is rather arbitrary.
9 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 9 weeks gestation
The length of the baby from the crown to the buttocks is already about 22 - 30 mm, weight - about 1 gram. His heart already consists of 4 chambers (2 atria and 2 ventricles), the rudiments of milk teeth began to form, the embryonic “tail” disappeared. The brain develops intensively, the cerebellum (the part of the brain responsible for the coordination of movements) is formed. The eyes are already fully formed, but until the 27th week they will be closed for centuries. The fingers of the hands have become longer, in the near future pads form on them.
Mom's condition at 9 weeks pregnant
The uterus is constantly growing, the volume of blood and lymphatic fluid increases every day. A slight increase in weight is possible: the body begins to “store” the fats that it will need when it comes time to feed the baby with milk. Breasts can increase in size - it makes sense to buy a new support bra to reduce the load on the skin and muscles. The areolas are also enlarged, and the micro-glands on them, designed to secrete a moisturizing and antibacterial lubricant, have become more visible and prominent. The appearance of a more pronounced pattern of veins on the chest is also completely normal.
Risk factors at 9 weeks pregnant
For carrying a pregnancy, even a common gastrointestinal disorder can become dangerous. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea caused by listeriosis (poisoning caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes) can lead to fetal hypoxia or even miscarriage. Therefore, the menu of a pregnant woman should not contain unpasteurized milk, home-made cottage cheese and cheese (and other soft cheeses), uncooked meat and fish, raw eggs. Vegetables and fruits should be thoroughly washed before eating.
Pay attention to the 9th week of pregnancy
Due to the fact that the baby requires more and more nutrients and fluids for its growth and comfortable existence in the uterus, the expectant mother may experience dry skin - she is now not nourished and moisturized enough. It is better to give up soap and aggressive detergents, use shower gel creams and moisturizing cleansing foams. For intimate hygiene, you can use special intimate gels with lactic acid - at the same time they will reduce the risk of thrush.
Doctor visit at 9 weeks pregnant
Until the 30th week (in the absence of complications), the doctor is visited once a month, from the 30th to the 36th week - twice a month, and then every week. Usually, a blood test and a urine test are done at each visit. According to the recommendation of the Ministry of Health, during pregnancy, the expectant mother will have three ultrasounds. However, even in the absence of pregnancy complications, there may be more of them: the first, for up to 12 weeks (in order to detect the presence of pregnancy and exclude ectopic pregnancy), then at 10-11 weeks, at 22 weeks, at 32 and 36 -38 weeks, closer to delivery.
first trimester
Fetal development at 10 weeks gestation
The child already weighs about 4 grams, its length is 31–42 mm. The main organs and systems of his body have already been formed, only their growth will continue. After 10 weeks, the likelihood that the baby will experience a developmental failure is very small. Now the child already looks like a man, and not like a tadpole: the tail and gill slits have finally disappeared. The baby has formed elbow joints, now he can bend and unbend his arms. Tiny nails have already appeared on the fingers and toes, the skin is covered with a light fluff. The kidneys, intestines, brain and liver begin to function, all layers of the cerebral cortex have formed, and sensitive devices can already register your baby's brain impulses. The testicles of boys at 10 weeks begin to produce the male hormone testosterone.
Mom's condition at 10 weeks pregnant
The high content of hormones continues to affect mood, periods of increased excitability or, conversely, apathy are possible. However, the first, most disturbing trimester, is coming to an end. If the doctor did not notice any abnormalities in the development of the child, it is likely that the subsequent weeks of pregnancy will bring more pleasure: after all, they will be less difficult for the expectant mother and less dangerous for the baby.
Pay attention at 10 weeks pregnant
Fitness during pregnancy is not only acceptable, but also useful. During physical exertion, even small ones, the blood is more actively saturated with oxygen, metabolism improves, and this has a positive effect on the well-being of not only the mother, but also the child. The ideal choice for a pregnant woman is walking, swimming, yoga or special sets of exercises for pregnant women.
Doctor visit at 10 weeks pregnant
Before the end of the first trimester, it makes sense to visit the doctor again. The fact is that up to 12 weeks, the size of the fetus, determined by ultrasound, allows you to accurately determine the gestational age. After 12 weeks, the size of the baby is already determined by genetic predisposition and other factors - and it will be somewhat more difficult to determine the exact gestational age and the preliminary date of delivery. In addition, expectant mothers who are registered with the antenatal clinic up to 12 weeks are paid a small lump sum.
first trimester
Fetal development at 11 weeks of gestation
The weight of the child is about 7 grams, he is already moving, but the mother is not yet able to feel these tremors. The neck is strengthened, the baby can already raise his head. The process of diaphragm formation may be accompanied by hiccups. The liver grows and develops, it is she who now performs all the hematopoietic functions. The blood of a child is not yet the same as the blood of an adult: it contains only red blood cells (erythrocytes). The child looks more and more proportional, although his arms are still longer than his legs.
Mom's condition at 11 weeks pregnant
By the end of the first trimester, the metabolism of the expectant mother becomes more intense by almost a quarter. Now her body needs even more nutrients than before the start of pregnancy, and more liquid - due to the fact that the volume of circulating blood has also increased significantly. Pregnancy hormones still affect digestion, slowing it down (causing constipation), so weight gain is still negligible. In addition, toxicosis and heartburn negatively affect appetite. Due to an excess of hormones, the gums can become more sensitive, start to bleed - the dentist will advise how to deal with this problem.
Doctor visit at 11 weeks pregnant
The first prenatal screening is usually scheduled this week. However, the mother has the right to refuse this procedure if she is sure that she will bear the child, regardless of the results of the study. However, if a woman has previously encountered problems during pregnancy (malformations of the fetus, non-developing pregnancy), if she is over 40 years old or if her family has had cases of the birth of children with pathologies, screening should not be abandoned. But it should be remembered that it does not always give 100% accurate results: too many factors influence the condition of the mother and fetus at the time of the study. Often, despite poor screening results, perfectly healthy children are subsequently born.
Complications of pregnancy at 11 weeks pregnant
If a pregnant woman has a history of genetic abnormalities, or the birth of children with defects, if the mother's age is more than 35 years old (during the first pregnancy), and also if screening has shown an increased risk of having a child with developmental anomalies, the doctor may suggest doing a chorionic villus biopsy. The instrument is inserted into the uterus through its neck or through a micro-puncture in the abdominal region. The risk of miscarriage with such manipulations is small, about 1-2%. A biopsy of the chorionic villi, as well as a puncture of the fetal bladder (amniocentesis), allows the detection of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. If the analysis (it takes about a week to wait for its results) reveals serious anomalies, it is possible to have time to terminate the pregnancy before the end of the first trimester.
Diet at 11 weeks pregnant
first trimester
Fetal development at 12 weeks gestation
The length of the baby is 6 cm. The first trimester is ending, the most difficult and responsible for mother and child. The development of the fetus will now go a little differently. New organs are no longer formed in him, but those that have formed will grow and develop for the next 29 weeks. The baby has the first reflexes: he can close his eyes, open his mouth, move his fingers in response to external stimuli. The child's skeleton, which consists mainly of cartilage, is now actively forming bone substance. The small intestine is already able to contract.
Mom's condition at 12 weeks pregnant
The uterus has become too large to fit in the hip bones - so it protrudes slightly above the pubic joint. It can be felt by passing your hand 10-12 cm below the navel. Starting from this week, the uterus begins to actively grow upwards, filling with itself first the hip region, and then the abdominal region.
Complications of pregnancy at 12 weeks pregnant
Headaches may become more frequent. The simplest ways will help to improve well-being - for example, resting in a cool, dark room, lying on your back (legs can be put on a raised platform). Hot and cold compresses applied alternately in the area of pain localization also help. With a tendency to migraines for all 9 months, it is better to completely exclude cheese, coffee, chocolate and red wine from the diet. Often the cause of a headache is hunger - it is important to eat on time, without long breaks. During this period of pregnancy, heartburn often increases, this is the result of the work of progesterone, which has a relaxing effect on the partition between the esophagus and stomach. If you lie down during an attack of heartburn, placing a pillow under your head and back, the discomfort can be slightly weakened.
Risk factors at 12 weeks pregnant
In pregnant women, urinary tract infections are quite common. If urination is difficult or is accompanied by pain and bloody discharge, you should immediately consult a doctor. Cystitis and pyelonephritis are diseases that need to be treated in a timely manner. You should keep the kidney area warm, as well as go to the toilet on time, immediately after the first urge to urinate - this will minimize the risk of disease.
Pregnancy Calendar
- first trimester, weeks 1 to 12
- , week 13 to 28
- , week 29 to 42
The period of bearing a child is 9 months, 40 weeks or 280 days, during which mother and baby have to go through a difficult and difficult path before meeting each other. This period is usually divided into trimesters of pregnancy by weeks, each of which has its own characteristics and symptoms.
Trimesters of pregnancy: how to divide and count In obstetric practice, the entire period of bearing a child is divided into trimesters. Young women preparing to become mothers for the first time do not always understand the meaning of this term, asking questions - what are trimesters, and how many are there in pregnancy?
Do not worry, the trimester is a period of three months, making up 1/3 of the entire period of bearing a child. There are two ways to break down pregnancy into trimesters by week. In the first, simplified method, the maximum period of bearing a child (42 weeks) is divided into three equal parts, each of which includes 14 weeks.
The second method is more rational, according to doctors. Here, the calculation is based on 40 obstetric weeks, divided as follows:
- I trimester - from the 1st to the 13th week
- II trimester - from the 14th to the 27th week
- III trimester - from the 28th week until the birth of the baby
Pregnancy trimesters by week: table
Trimesters of pregnancy
In the table you can clearly see how the trimesters are divided and how to count them. It shows that the entire pregnancy is conditionally divided into three important periods, which include three calendar months each. These indicators are the same for each woman, therefore, they do not provide for any individual calculations.
The first trimester is the initial stage at which the conception and formation of the embryo occurs. Sometimes during this period, the expectant mother does not even suspect that a new life is born in her body. Most often, the first symptoms begin to appear by the 4th week: a woman notices a delay in the menstrual cycle, and her body reacts sharply to the appearance of a small “blazer” with malaise and nausea.
The second trimester is considered the most calm and prosperous period of the “interesting situation”. By this moment, the body of the expectant mother is fully adapted to the fact that you need to work for two, although the figure of a woman begins to change significantly - a belly appears, shapes are rounded, and the total weight increases.
By this stage, the embryo turns from a “tadpole” into a real little man: all the important organs and systems of vital activity are formed in him, he already knows how to move his arms and legs, suck his finger, bringing immense joy to the mother, who feels the movements of the baby in the stomach.
The third trimester is the most anxious and difficult period. It lasts from 7 months until delivery. At this stage, the woman's body is actively preparing for childbirth, and the baby continues to actively grow and develop. For the development of an infant, the last three months of intrauterine life are an important preparation for independent life, so a woman needs to make every effort to create favorable conditions for the baby to successfully pass the final period of formation.
Despite the fact that each trimester brings with it certain difficulties for the expectant mother, they are all wonderful and beautiful in their own way. Passing each section of the path before meeting with a child, a woman gains invaluable experience that cannot be bought for money.
The waiting period for a child is usually no more than 42 calendar weeks. The entire period of pregnancy is usually divided into 3 trimesters, each of which has its own characteristics.
In this article, we will tell you which week each trimester begins, as well as what features of the course of pregnancy you can notice, depending on its duration.
Sometimes doctors use a simplified method when calculating the gestational age - the maximum waiting period for a child of 42 weeks is divided into 3 equal trimesters, 14 weeks each. Thus, the 2nd trimester of pregnancy with this method of counting will begin from week 15, and 3 from 29.
However, another breakdown method is most often used - using a special table that lists all trimesters of pregnancy by week.
Consider the most significant features and changes in the entire period of pregnancy by week of each trimester, while breaking down the entire period of expectation of the child as shown in the table.
1st trimester of pregnancy by week
1-3 weeks. The countdown of the beginning of the waiting period for the baby begins from the first day of the last menstruation. A little later, the egg is fertilized and the tiny embryo attaches to the walls of the uterus. You don't even know what's going on inside you while you're still waiting for your next period.
4-6 weeks. In the body of a woman, the hormone hCG is produced, during this period, most expectant mothers find out about their situation with the help of a pregnancy test. In a tiny embryo, a heart begins to form. Some women begin to experience malaise, as well as nausea in the morning.
7-10 weeks. The future baby is growing and developing rapidly, its weight is already about 4 grams. Mommy may gain a little weight, but there are no external changes yet. Most girls fully suffer from toxicosis.
11-13 weeks. Time to pass, which includes ultrasound diagnostics and a biochemical blood test to determine the likelihood of possible chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Toxicosis, most likely, is already receding. The baby has formed the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, spine and face. By the end of the first trimester, his height reaches 10 cm, and his body weight is about 20 grams.
2nd trimester of pregnancy by week
14-17 weeks. The baby is actively moving in the mother's tummy, but most pregnant women do not yet feel this. The growth of the fetus reaches 15 cm, and the weight is about 140 grams. The expectant mother herself is also actively gaining weight, and by this time her increase can reach 5 kg.
18-20 weeks. During this period, most women get acquainted with the sensation of moving their baby. The tummy is already so prominent that it cannot be hidden from prying eyes. The baby develops by leaps and bounds, its weight reaches 300 grams, and its height is 25 cm.
21-23 weeks. At this time, you will have to undergo a second screening test. Very often, it is on the second ultrasound that the doctor can already determine the sex of the baby, whose weight reaches 500 grams.
24-27 weeks. The uterus becomes quite large, and the expectant mother may experience discomfort - a feeling of heartburn and heaviness in the stomach, cramps in the legs, etc. The baby occupied the entire uterine cavity, his weight already reaches 950 grams, and his height is 34 cm. His brain is fully formed .
3rd trimester of pregnancy by week
28-30 weeks. The load on the kidneys of a pregnant woman increases every day, the fetus develops incredibly rapidly - now it already weighs about 1500 grams, and its height reaches 39 cm. The baby's lungs begin to prepare for independent breathing.
31-33 weeks. During this period, you will undergo another ultrasound, on which the doctor will even be able to take photos of the baby's face. Its parameters reach 43 cm and 2 kg. The expectant mother is increasingly experiencing the body preparing for the upcoming birth.
34-36 weeks. All organs and systems of the baby are formed, and he is ready to be born, now until the due date he will only gain body weight. He becomes cramped in his mother's tummy, so the number of movements decreases. The weight of the fetus reaches 2.7 kg, height - 48 cm.
37-42 weeks. Usually during this period the logical end of pregnancy occurs - childbirth, the baby is born. Now he is already considered full-term, and the development of the lungs allows him to breathe on his own.
