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Pregnancy Trimesters In Weeks
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Pregnancy Trimesters In Weeks

The entire duration of pregnancy is broadly divided into three stages, which are more commonly referred to, as the three pregnancy trimesters. The first trimester includes the initial stages of pregnancy, which are the first three months. The second trimester comprises the fourth till the sixth month and once you enter the seventh month of pregnancy, you have entered the third trimester of your pregnancy. However, since most doctors and healthcare providers monitor the progress of the fetus in weeks, it is much better to calculate and monitor the various pregnancy trimesters in weeks. A normal pregnancy can last anywhere between 37 and 42 weeks. The references to pregnancy usually take into account the gestational age.

The first trimester of pregnancy starts at week 1 and goes on till the end of week 13 and this is a period of rapid development. Not all women are even aware that they are pregnant for some part of this stage. The first week is actually, the week where you have your last menstrual period. The day on which you started your period will be regarded as the official start-date of your pregnancy. The weeks are further calculated, from this date onwards. Between the second and the third weeks, the egg gets fertilized and floats into the uterus. About three days after that, i.e., in the fourth week, the process of implantation begins, there the eggs that has been fertilized burrows into the uterus lining. Most women start noticing the first few signs of pregnancy in the 5th week. It is during this time that the placenta starts getting formed and the amniotic fluid begins to build up. Your baby undergoes several other changes between the 6th and 13th week, by when the fetus should is around 3 inches long and weighs around an ounce. It is also possible to determine the baby’s gender in the thirteenth week, as the external genitalia are clearly defined.

As you enter the 14th week, which is the second trimester the baby should measure about 3½ inches long and should weigh an ounce and a half. This trimester is a period of rapid growth in the baby, so don’t be too shocked if you feel the movements or kicks from your baby, shortly. Your baby grows in leaps and bounds, gets stronger by the week and goes through several changes. By the end of the second trimester, i.e., the end of the 26th week, your baby should be about 14 inches long and should weigh one pound and seven ounces. Physically, your baby should be very active and should even respond to touch.

As you enter the third trimester and the 27th week of pregnancy, the baby should weight around 2 pounds is should be 14.5 inches long. The baby’s brain still continues to develop and the baby gains weight and gets stronger by the week, right till the time of delivery. A baby born in the 27th week has 80% chances of survival, but there may be some severe complications. A woman is not considered overdue, till she exceeds her due date by two weeks. However, after crossing 37 weeks, it is important to have your doctor check you and your baby regularly, to avoid any complications.

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