Pregnancy is a completely natural part of everyday life, and now it is important that the uterus and baby continue to grow. The baby develops incredibly fast on an almost daily basis, and all focus is on learning a lot of new things that will be needed when the little one comes into the world.
What is happening in the belly?
Because all the major structures are in place, developments are underway throughout the little one's body and system.
The fetus's bones are continuing to harden, and therefore you will also be able to push against a little foot or arm if they press against the abdominal wall.
The little baby is growing at a rapid pace because bone and muscle mass are developing. At the same time, the good sense of hearing is also improving, so it is beneficial to talk to and sing to the little one. This way, your voice will be more recognizable when he or she comes into the world.
The lungs are still developing rapidly, and this development is one of the crucial factors for the baby's life outside the womb. All oxygen is supplied to the little fetus through the umbilical cord and placenta, so it is only the training of the lungs that the baby is doing.
Inside the lung tissue, the number of branches and blood vessels is increasing, which will eventually contain air and transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. The lungs are still immature this week, but a rapid development is taking place.
Remember to feel your little one every single day
Even though the small movements in the belly only get bigger and wilder with each passing day, and you may be kept awake at night by them, it is important that there is movement.
As a pregnant woman, you should feel movement every single day. If it has been suspiciously quiet, you can try lying down and completely relaxing. Otherwise, a glass of water with ice cubes can also stimulate some activity.
If you are in doubt about the fetal movements, you should contact professionals who can help you in the best possible way. Trust your own instincts, but also have courage. Most of the time, everything is perfectly fine.
Size of the fetus
This week, the fetus is about 30 centimeters long and weighs around 700-750 grams. That doesn't sound like much, but it is still a significant weight gain that the little baby is experiencing right now.
At the size of a good papaya, the baby is now, and therefore it also makes sense that the movements are becoming more noticeable and the belly is getting a bit heavier to carry around.
Advice for the partner
Your little child in the belly can hear and sense much more than you probably realize and believe.
You can sing to the belly and talk to the little one inside, so the fetus can also recognize your voice when it comes out as your little baby.
If the baby is positioned correctly in the belly for it, you might actually also hear the little heart beating inside. The heart beats much faster than your own, and that is completely normal. If you manage to hear it, you can really feel that it is actually a little person - your little person - who is inside.
