Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles Fetal Development

...under the top layer of skin. The soft down (or lanugo) which had covered the baby’s entire body is also gradually disappearing. Babies normally swallow most of this lanugo, which comes out as meconium, the first baby stool, which is blackish in color. The baby’s body is covered with a waxy substance called Vernix which almost disappears at week 38 of pregnancy. Only a small amount remains in order to ensure an easy and smooth passage through the birth canal. Fetal development in week 38 also promotes hair growth and so many babies develop a full head of hair during this stage. Most babies are born with slight ‘peach fuzz’ but some babies actually have hair that may be as long as one inch. Another important aspect of fetal development at week 38 is that many of baby’s internal organs begin to function as they would, once baby is born.

Babies begin to use their lungs and practice breathing, causing them to get occasional hiccups. You can probably monitor them as little jumps. Fetal development in week 38 also affects the baby’s brain, ears, and eyes and so they are almost completely developed by the end of this week. Baby can now blink and can even hear sounds in your environment. They often react and turn their heads to light and sounds, causing further movement within your abdomen.At week 38 of pregnancy, your baby’s head and abdomen may have the same circumference. This is because the liver has to produce a lot of red blood cells and is thus very large.

The intestines have also begun to accumulate meconium, which will be passed soon after birth.About you: Since fetal development by week 38 is almost complete, you may find that your appetite has decreased considerably. This is because the baby is almost fully grown and presses on your stomach and your intestines. You may also feel very fatigued. It is essential to rest and catch up on your sleep, at this stage, as you will probably have to spend some sleepless nights in the initial stages after baby is born. Also keep a suitcase packed and your plans for delivery ready, since you could start labor pains at any time.

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