Being pregnant is one of the most enriching experiences in any woman’s life. During this phase, life takes on a completely new dimension, with all attention moving to the fetal development occurring within the womb. The 40 week or 9 month pregnancy term is broken down into three main parts called trimesters. The first trimester is mainly linked with formation; while rapid fetal development and the second trimester are closely linked and the final trimester mainly deals with growth and weight gain. The fourth, fifth and sixth months of gestation make up the second trimester. At the beginning of the second...
...trimester, which would be in the 14th week of gestation, the baby is approximately 9 centimeters long and weighs around 40 – 45 grams. With progressing fetal development in the second trimester, the baby continues to grow steadily and by the end of the second trimester, the baby is approximately 35 centimeters tall and a little over a pound and a half in weight. At the onset of the second trimester, the mother is already able to feel the baby moving within her womb. With these movements, the baby makes its presence felt. The facial features become distinct and muscle coordination and brain functioning gradually improves. The baby is able to suck her thumb and move her arms and legs easily as well as turn from side to side and somersault. During this period of fetal development in the second trimester, the baby begins to hear voices and sounds outside the womb.
Singing, speaking or reading to the baby are known to be beneficial in calming the baby and enhancing the relationship between mother and child. The taste buds develop and the baby begins to savor different flavors passed on from the food that the mother has consumed. The eyebrows and eyelids are formed but the baby’s eyes remain shut. Creases begin to form on the palms and the feet. The baby’s skin is covered with a protective membrane called vernix that prevents damage caused by constant exposure to amniotic fluid. This layer also aids the delivery process. Fine hair called lanugo covers the body. Bones replace the cartilage and the skeletal system begins to take shape. During this phase of fetal development, the baby starts breathing movements and inhales and exhales amniotic fluids. Babies are also known to cry within the womb. The reproductive organs and external genitals of the baby form and it becomes possible to identify the gender of the baby. The bone marrow starts producing red blood cells. Other organs like the kidneys and pancreas also start functioning.
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