Stages of Pregnancy
Pregnancy begins at fertilization when the male sperm enters the female egg. From the start, the unborn fetus has its own unique set of DNA-- half from its father and half from its mother. This DNA is the blueprint for all the genetic traits the unborn fetus will have, from its gender to the color of its hair.
Pregnancy is divided into three segments known as trimesters. They are used to chart the unborn fetus' stages of healthy growth & development
Trimester Breakdown
First Trimester
Starts from conception to the end of week 12
Second Trimester
Starts from week 13 to the end of week 26
Third Trimester
Starts from week 27 to the end of the pregnancy
First Trimester
In just four weeks, the heart, brain, and spinal cord begin to form. Major organs like the stomach and intestines are already forming, as well as the eyes and ears.
The first trimester is a period of tremendous growth. Within 6 weeks, the unborn fetus' heart is beating and brain activity can be recorded. In 8 weeks, all the major organs have begun to develop. the unborn fetus' facial features become recognizable, including the nose, lips, and tongue.
After 10 weeks, the unborn fetus has enough muscle control to make its hand into a fist. by the close of the first trimester, all of the organs and body parts have been formed, including the nerve fibers that transmit pain signals to the brain
Second Trimester
At the beginning of the second trimester, major organs such as the liver and the pancreas begin to function. The unborn fetus begins to make movements that can be felt by its mother. Detailed features begin to form, including fingernails, taste-buds, and eyelashes.
After 20 weeks, some experts have concluded that the unborn fetus is able to feel pain. At the end of the second trimester, the fetus becomes more animated. It can hear outside noises, hiccup, squint, smile, and frown. Its unique footprints and fingerprints have formed. The lungs have developed to the point it maybe possible for a prematurely born fetus to survive, although they may incur serious disabilities.
Third Trimester
A newborn is considered full-term once it has developed for 38 weeks. The weeks leading up to that point are the final stages of growth. After 26 weeks, the fetus exercises its muscles by kicking and stretching. The bones are fully developed and the brainwaves resemble those of a fully-developed baby.
Between 34-36 weeks, the eyes begin to open when the fetus is awake and closed when asleep. The weight in the third trimester is between 5 to 6 pounds and measures between 16-19 inches long. If the fetus should be born prematurely, the chances of survival are excellent, although the newborn might need special care.