First month of pregnancy (weeks 0-4)>
starts from the first day of the last menstrual period and lasts 4 weeks.
Fertilization occurs about two weeks after your period. Then the child is conceived.
At the end of the month, there are still 36 weeks left before delivery (8 months 12 days).
At the end of the month, the embryo is two weeks old.
The embryo is about the size of a pinhead.
REMEMBER! During pregnancy, you should not take any medication on your own initiative. Check with your doctor or nurse at the health center for the safety of your medications.
Second month of pregnancy (weeks 5-8)
starts when 4 weeks have elapsed since the first day of the last menstrual period.
Lasts 4 weeks.
At the end of the month, there are S2 weeks before delivery (7 months 14 days).
At the beginning of the month, the embryo is two weeks old, at the end it is six weeks old.
At the end of the month, the embryo is about 1.5 cm long.
The embryo has small arms and leg buds.
Heart and nose begin to develop. ears and eyelids, nervous system, spine and umbilical cord.
REMEMBER! Smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy can harm your baby.
Third month of pregnancy (weeks 9-12)
starts when 8 weeks have elapsed since the first day of the last menstrual period
At the end of the month, there are 28 weeks before delivery (6 months 16 days).
Is the fetus 6 weeks old at the beginning of the month? at the end of the 10 week.
At the end of the month, the fruit is about 9 cm long and weighs about 20 g.
For the first time, the heart begins to beat.
The fetus floats in the amniotic fluid in the bladder and receives nutrients through the umbilical cord.
The fetus already has the upper and lower jaws and the rudiment of the tongue. The first tooth rudiments appear.
REMEMBER! The good physical and mental condition of the mother contributes to the healthy development of the fetus: healthy eating and walks in the fresh air are useful for both.
Fourth month of pregnancy (weeks 13-16)
starts when 12 weeks have elapsed since the first day of your last period.
At the end of the month, 24 weeks remain before delivery (5 months 18 days)
At the beginning of the month, the fetus is 10 weeks old, at the end it is 14 weeks old.
At the end of the month, the length of the fetus is about 16 cm, weight is about 100 g. The uterus is about the size of a fist.
The head is large and makes up almost half of the total length. The face begins to acquire its features. Ears and genitals develop.
The fetus tries to breathe and swallow. He pushes with his legs, moves his toes and hands, turns his head. The mother, however, does not yet feel these light movements.
REMEMBER! in order to receive maternity benefits, she must appear at a antenatal clinic or a doctor no later than within the fourth month of pregnancy.
5th month of pregnancy (weeks 17-20)
starts when 16 weeks have elapsed since the first day of your last period.
At the end of the month, 20 weeks remain before delivery (4 months 20 days).
At the beginning of the month, the fetus is 14 weeks old, at the end of the month it is 18 weeks old.
At the end of the month, the fruit is about 25-27 cm long and weighs about 250-300 g.
The fetus develops its own blood circulation and the heart beats twice as fast as that of an adult.
The skin of the fetus is covered with fluffy hair that disappears before delivery. Appear. in particular. brows.
The placenta at this stage is almost the size of a fetus and protects the fetus from harmful substances. but can't filter out everything.
By this time, the mother already senses the movements of the fetus in that case. if she gave birth before.
REMEMBER! The time has come to agree with the nurse of the antenatal clinic about family preparation.
Sixth month of pregnancy (weeks 21-24)
starts when 20 weeks have elapsed since the first day of your last period.
At the end of the month, 16 weeks remain before delivery (3 months 22 days).
At the beginning of the month, the fetus is 18 weeks old, at the end of the month it is 22 weeks old.
The weight of the fetus is from 400 to 600 g, the length is about 30 cm. It moves so that even primiparous can feel its movements. The heartbeat is heard.
At the end of the month, the bottom of the uterus is at the level of the navel. Faster uterine growth is often a sign of twins.
The fetus tries to suck; the thumb often slips into the mouth. Hands, hair and nails grow. The protective shell begins to transform into skin.
The fetus sleeps most of the time, but it can wake up from voices or shaking from the outside.
REMEMBER! At the 22nd week of pregnancy, you can already apply for maternity, paternity, parenting and childbirth benefits. (See the chapter on Services and Benefits for Families with Children).
Seventh month of pregnancy (weeks 25-28)
Begins when 24 weeks have elapsed since the first day of your last menstrual period.
At the end of the month, there are 12 weeks left before delivery (2 months 24 days).
At the beginning of the month, the fetus is 22 weeks old, at the end of the month it is 26 weeks old.
The weight of the fruit is about one kilogram, its length is about 35 cm.
The fruit moves a lot, turns and pushes with its legs so that it can be seen even from the outside. He opens and closes his eyes, has a strong grip on his hands.
The uterus has risen to the level of the navel. The first contractions of the uterus can be felt in such a way that the abdomen “hardens” for a few seconds.
Eighth month of pregnancy (weeks 29 -32)
starts when 28 weeks have elapsed since the first day of your last period
At the end of the month, there are 8 weeks left before delivery (1 month 26 days).
At the beginning of the month, the fetus is 26 weeks old, at the end of the month it is 30 weeks old.
Fruit length is about 40 cm, weight is about one and a half kg.
In appearance, the fetus is similar to a newborn, however, it is more fragile in constitution, If he was born, he could remain alive.
However, the lungs and many other organs of the fetus are not yet fully developed; it does not have all the antibodies that a full-term fetus has.
REMEMBER! during this period, you should not work for a long time while standing on your feet, lift heavy weights or perform other heavy work.
Ninth month of pregnancy (weeks 33-36)
starts when 32 weeks have elapsed since the first day of the last menstrual period.
At the end of the month, there are 28 days or four weeks left until delivery.
At the beginning of the month, the fetus is 30 weeks old, at the end of the month it is 34 weeks old
The length of the fruit is about 47 cm, the weight is about 2700 g. The weight is rapidly gaining.
The fetus moves less than before, as the uterus becomes cramped for it. Most fruits turn head down during this period.
A fatty layer forms on the surface of the skin, the so-called. original lubricant.
The uterus has risen to its maximum height, up to the ribs.
REMEMBER! Prepare everything you need for your child now.
Tenth month of pregnancy (weeks 37-40)
Begins when 36 weeks have elapsed since the first day of the last menstrual period, or 34 weeks from the start of fertilization.
The fetus is 34 weeks old at the beginning of the month and is usually 38 weeks old.
The uterus descends lower and the fetal head is set in the exit position. The contractions are greatly enhanced.
The fetus is pushed in the uterus so hard that it can knock a book placed on the mother's belly.
The length of most newborns is from 49 to 52 cm, weight is from 3000 to 4000 grams. Childbirth occurs at the end of the tenth month of pregnancy. However, giving birth a week earlier or a week later is common.
REMEMBER! If amniotic fluid begins to leak, pain or spotting appears, or when contractions become regular, you should immediately go to the maternity hospital. (See the chapter "Childbirth".)
Despite the fact that pregnancy is normal, it tires the woman's body. All organs must adapt to the new condition. The metabolism is accelerated, breathing and blood circulation are more efficient, the uterus is enlarged. During pregnancy, the placenta secretes many enzymes and hormones, which, along with the corpus luteum and the lower cerebral appendage, regulate changes in the body.
Just about a month left before the long-awaited maternity leave. If you are also entitled to your next annual leave, this is the time to take it. However, some active mothers continue to work, even while on maternity leave. The main thing is to be sensitive to your well-being and not to overexert yourself. When work is enjoyable, and the pregnancy proceeds without possible complications, you can continue to work.
Mom's sixth month of pregnancy sometimes becomes a period of emotional distress for dad, especially if he becomes a father for the first time. Do not look for reasons for a quarrel if your spouse is not at home as often as you would like, and is not touched by the tummy. Give him the opportunity to get used to the upcoming new status and show that you appreciate him. Give your husband more time - walk together, attend events, travel, because after childbirth, such outings will not always be possible.
Changes in the body
The size of the uterus increases, exceeding the level of the navel by several centimeters. The fetus already completely fills the space inside it, and the height of the bottom is 24-28 cm. The enlarged uterus presses on the bladder, because of this, the woman feels a frequent urge to urinate. Don't overflow Bladder, otherwise there is a likelihood of the development of an inflammatory process in the genitourinary system. You should see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- acute pain in the lower abdomen;
- contractions of the uterus more than 4 times per hour;
- profuse liquid vaginal discharge;
- bleeding from the vagina;
- severe swelling of the legs or face;
- prolonged nausea, vomiting, headache.
At the sixth month, a blood test may show elevated cholesterol levels, but this is not a problem. This phenomenon is explained by the fact that from cholesterol the placenta synthesizes sex homones, including progesterone.
Many mums find the sixth month a wonderful time. The woman feels good and looks great. Blood circulates vigorously for a healthy complexion and glowing cheeks.
What weeks are included in the 6th month of pregnancy
Power features
During the sixth month of pregnancy, the expectant mother feels a solid weight gain. At this stage of pregnancy, weight can increase by 500 g every week. In total, at the end of 6 months, a woman already weighs 5-8 kg more than her original body weight. If edema appears, then this figure can be even higher, even if the mother carefully monitors her diet. In any case, pregnancy is not the time for fasting. With a nutritional deficiency of a pregnant woman, the body will begin to burn fat, and this will cause the release of toxins into the blood and can harm the baby. If the increase is too large, it is necessary to develop a nutrition plan for the pregnant woman in conjunction with the doctor. Excessive weight gain can provoke increased blood pressure, swelling, and childbirth problems.
Be careful when choosing food and quality of food, especially if you eat in a cafe or in a cafeteria. Order only dishes you know well, prepared in a gentle way. Do not eat fast food, too spicy and salty, fried, smoked food.
Baby development at 6 months of pregnancy
Child development
During the 6th month of pregnancy, the baby will grow another 5 cm and double its body weight. By the end of this month, the baby already weighs 800 g and is about 36 cm long. The baby is very thin - the fatty layer necessary for regulating body temperature after childbirth is just beginning to accumulate.
The baby's handles are already becoming more manageable, and one of them is already playing a dominant role. Nerve endings are already functioning in the brain, and the number of nerve cells reaches a maximum. At the appointment, the doctor clearly hears the heartbeat through the obstetric stethoscope. The baby's pulse is higher than that of the mother, it is 120-160 beats per minute. The baby already sees dreams, and the periods of sleep are replaced by wakefulness, when the movements of the fetus are clearly felt.
The development of the external genital organs continues: the testicles descend into the scrotum in boys, the vagina is formed in girls. Among all organs, the respiratory system remains not yet sufficiently mature. The baby breathes actively thanks to the placenta, which provides the necessary air exchange. That is why premature birth in the second trimester of pregnancy is especially dangerous, the baby will not be able to breathe on its own outside the womb. In modern perinatal centers, a baby can be saved with a weight of 500 g, but this requires special resuscitation procedures and equipment. According to statistics, about 85% of babies born prematurely survive this period.
On the sixth month, training fights - Braxton-Hicks appear. During the day, contractions up to 10 times are possible with long breaks. The uterus learns to contract and relax, and such contractions do not pose a threat to pregnancy.
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Belly at 6 months of pregnancy
The tummy at 6 months of pregnancy is already clearly pronounced, and those around you, by one glance, understand that you are in position. At each appointment, the gynecologist measures the volume of the growing abdomen and analyzes the height of the fundus of the uterus. The size of the abdomen is individual and depends on many factors, such as:
- the physique of the expectant mother (miniature women usually have a smaller tummy than large ones);
- the place of attachment of the fetus (on the front wall of the uterus or on the back);
- repeated pregnancy (with the second and subsequent pregnancies, the tummy already looks more voluminous than with the first).
The sixth month is a good time to get a prenatal brace to support your abdomen. This device provides an elevated position of the fetus, reducing the pressure of the uterus on the internal organs. Also, a special bandage partially relieves the load from the back, prevents abrupt stretching of the muscles and skin of the abdomen. There are several models of prenatal bandages, you need to decide which one is right for you on an individual basis. Consider a model transforming into a postpartum accessory. Then you can wear a bandage after childbirth.
At this stage of pregnancy, diabetes can manifest itself if the woman's body has a predisposition to it. Indirect symptoms of the disease are:
- too frequent feelings of hunger and thirst;
- increased urination;
- dizziness;
- vision problems.
Blood sugar tests and urinalysis will help determine the diagnosis. In this case, gestational diabetes (begins during pregnancy) can self-eliminate after childbirth, however, when identifying a diagnosis, it must be taken seriously.
During pregnancy, another unpleasant disease is often found - varicose veins. Signs of the disease may appear for the first time or worsen if they were present earlier. As a rule, spider veins, enlarged venous nodes appear on the legs and external genitals. If you suspect varicose veins, you need to visit a specialist - phlebologist. As a rule, expectant mothers with varicose veins are advised to wear compression stockings, avoid sitting with crossed legs, and staying in the same body position for a long time.
Despite the fact that the child begins to build up fat at an accelerated pace, he still looks red and wrinkled. This is because the skin is formed much faster than sufficient fat deposits can form under it, so the skin is still saggy. Redness is a consequence of the accumulation of pigments in the skin, which makes it less transparent.
The child becomes more and more active, but kicks and pushes very gently. On video frames during fetal endoscopy at this time, you can see how the child, being in the uterus, grabs the umbilical cord with his hands and pushes into the amnion, the watery membrane of the fetus, which now represents the whole world around him for him.
The baby continues to swallow small amounts of the surrounding fluid and excrete it from the body in the form of urine. The moisture and sugars it extracts from the amniotic fluid are another important source of nutrition for it, along with what it gets through the placenta and umbilical cord. Swallowing the liquid can cause hiccups, which you will feel when the fetus starts to bounce inside you.
Due to the pigmentation of the skin, the baby's hands are pink-red. Until recently, he simply thrust his thumb into his mouth, but now he really sucks it. The baby's nails are almost completely formed. The baby continues to grow and prepare for birth. He feels very comfortable in the uterus, Braxton Hicks contractions do not disturb the baby. Now the child accumulates meconium (original feces)
The length from the crown to the sacrum is about 30 cm.
Weight - about 500-510 g. 
Monitoring deeply premature babies, whose sleep rhythm is the same as that of the fetus, makes it possible to establish how daily activity is organized in the 5th month of pregnancy. It's very simple: he sleeps almost 24 hours a day, but short periods of activity are followed by 50 minutes of rest. His heart beats at the same rhythm, which proves that he sleeps deep and prolonged sleep until the 28th week of intrauterine development.
But at the same time he pushes you with his feet! This does not mean that, when he wakes up, he gives you a "full contact" session. It floats in the amniotic fluid, brushing against the walls of the uterus, reflexively responding to the movements of your body. Really reflexive, because voluntary responses require the maturity of his brain, which has not yet completed its development.
At this stage of development, his voluntary movements become possible, since, starting from the 3rd month of pregnancy, the nerve fibers of the spinal cord (which is not at all an organ of thought) are sequentially connected with the nerve fibers of his muscles.
Thus, he charts the kind of walking that will surprise pediatricians at birth. We are talking about automatic walking, recorded in his genes. These alternating movements are due to the recent appearance in the spinal cord of neurons - generators of rhythm.
You yourself
You can more clearly distinguish the movements of the unborn child, not only because he grows and moves more, but also because their repetition allows you to recognize them well.
You fondly notice that your little one is using the time when you are resting for his exercises. In fact, this is not so: it’s just that at this time you are more attentive to his movements. 
22 (24) weeks
The fruit is about 30 cm long and weighs 600-680 grams. Such a fetus can be born alive and perform extrauterine respiratory movements and even survive if it is kept in special incubators, in the presence of artificial lung ventilation and the use of appropriate means of intensive therapy and resuscitation.
His ear is not only an organ of hearing, but also a center of balance. The vestibular apparatus is located in the inner ear. Thanks to him, the fetus can rotate without feeling dizzy, and also allowing itself different "tricks" when swimming in the amniotic "pool".
The vestibular apparatus of your unborn child is so perfect that he orients himself in space in accordance with his "mood" and is arranged as conveniently as possible, resting his legs against the wall of the uterus.
The researchers speculate that he uses this method (and information from the vestibular apparatus) to get himself into the right position in preparation for his journey into the big world. Can we conclude that babies choosing other positions at the time of delivery have an immature vestibular system?
A layer of fat continues to accumulate under the skin, which after birth will allow the baby to maintain the optimal body temperature and not be afraid of hypothermia. That is why premature newborns are forced to stay in special incubators: without this measure, the baby simply will not survive.
You yourself
The uterus reaches the diaphragm, and the lungs are unable to draw in the full volume of air. Therefore, in order for the lungs to be filled with air to their full volume, the chest increases in width by 5-7 cm. This expansion allows you to take up to 20% additional oxygen, which is so necessary for both of you.
This week, you may experience contractions of the uterus (abdominal wall tension) called Braxton Hicks contractions. This is absolutely normal - the uterus slowly begins to exercise before childbirth. But you also need to know about sensations that cannot be ignored. Signs of premature birth are as follows:
* The frequency of uterine contractions reaches five per hour or more;
* Isolation of scarlet blood from the genital tract;
* Signs of preeclampsia (acute or prolonged abdominal pain, vomiting);
* Sudden discharge of clear watery fluid from the genital tract;
* Monotonous aching pain in the lower back;
* Strong pressure in the lower pelvis.
If such signs appear, an urgent need to consult a doctor!
The motor activity of the fetus outwardly resembles the movements of a newborn baby.
23 (25) weeks
The kid is growing by leaps and bounds! Its weight is about 700 grams. Intensive strengthening of the osteoarticular system continues.
This week, the child is already starting to open his eyes a little. By this time, they were almost completely formed, all layers of the eyeball are now exactly the same as they will be at birth. If the child has blue eyes, then be calm: they are blue now. This is true for people of all races, although the final eye color is not revealed until a few months after birth.
The baby still looks rather weak and slender, but this will soon change as most of the fat deposits occur in the later stages of pregnancy. By the time of childbirth, he will significantly increase his weight, gain weight and acquire the plumpness that is characteristic of all newborns. The skin is still red and wrinkled, but as the subcutaneous tissue grows, the skin smoothes and becomes lighter. The child already has a full set of eyelashes, eyebrows and nails, although these are still relatively small and will continue to grow.
Veins show through your baby's skin. Your child can hear you and everything that is happening around you. Although we assume that the womb is a quiet place, the baby is still surrounded by noise for a long time within you. This is the beating of your heart, gurgling during digestion and much more that we do not hear, but the baby hears perfectly. You can even understand what your toddler is hearing - the child may kick harder or jerk violently when there is a sudden loud sound. Also, the uterus lets in some light that the baby can see. So the opinion that the baby is in the womb in darkness and silence is wrong.
The length from the crown to the sacrum is about 32.5-33 cm.
Weight - about 794 - 800 g.
The sixth month, like the fifth, can be called the month of movement. The fetus moves actively and willingly if ... it does not sleep. And sleep takes him most of the day - from 16 to 20 hours. After analyzing the recording of the biocurrents of the brain, that is, the electroencephalogram (EEG), of a sleeping fetus, experts were surprised to find two phases characteristic of an adult's sleep - slow and REM sleep.
At the sixth month, the fetus becomes larger and more mobile, its individuality is more noticeable. He already has a “facial expression”. The mass of the brain is increasing, and its structure is being improved, grooves and convolutions have been formed. He prepares to think, see, hear, feel ...
At the same time, the fetus begins to make constant respiratory movements. The laying of the respiratory system occurs in the second - third week of pregnancy. And then, over the course of 18 weeks, the organs of this system become more complex and differentiate. The bronchial tree literally grows, branches out with bronchi and bronchioles. Growing into the lung, they divide its tissue into segments and lobules. The very last are formed alveolar passages - the thinnest air tubes with microscopic bubbles - alveoli. It is through the thin wall of these bubbles that carbon dioxide is replaced by life-giving oxygen. But the alveoli will expand and fill with air only with the first breath of the newborn. And now the fetus is simply "working out" the system - it makes 50-60 respiratory movements per minute.
At the same time, the lung tissue does not expand, air does not enter it. But the amniotic fluid falls. But their number is very small, they are quickly absorbed, and do not cause any harm to the fetus. Respiratory movements can be interrupted for half an hour or an hour, and then resume again.
The ability to make breathing movements is provided by the respiratory center, which is finally formed in the medulla oblongata at 22-23 weeks. The development of this center can be significantly delayed if the mother's body is exposed to episodic, and even more constant intoxication with substances contained in tobacco and tobacco smoke, alcohol, drugs. Under the influence of these toxic substances, for which there is practically no placental barrier, the central nervous system of the fetus is inhibited, hence the respiratory center localized in the brain. And this can be the reason that by the time of birth, neither the respiratory center, nor the lungs, nor the bronchi will be fully ready to perform their functions.
In the meantime, a sufficient supply of oxygen to the fetus largely depends on whether the vascular system of the villi of the placenta is well developed and how intense the uteroplacental circulation is. If a woman practically cannot influence the vascular system, since the placenta and all its structures were formed by the end of the third month, then blood circulation can be activated. To do this, you need to regularly perform a set of physical exercises (a doctor who constantly monitors the pregnant woman will help you choose it) and be in the fresh air as much as possible, just move.
By the sixth month, all parts of the fetal digestive system are well formed: the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, pancreas. In the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, there are already secretory cells, which after birth will produce gastric and intestinal juice. The liver actively begins to perform its main functions, including the synthesis and storage of glycogen, which is a source of carbohydrates for the fetus. And the hematopoietic functions are now completely transferred to the red bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes, thymus gland.
From the 20th week, the fetus begins to receive immunoglobulins from the mother through the placenta, which provide him with passive immunity. But, despite this, the immune forces of the fetus are still very weak, therefore, its main defense is the maternal organism.
If the mother is sick during pregnancy, for example, the flu, this can leave its mark on the cardiovascular, excretory and other systems of the fetus. The trail can be barely noticeable and quite serious. Proceeding from this, during a flu epidemic, it is certainly not worth visiting where a lot of people gather and involuntary contact with a sick flu, other diseases that are transmitted by airborne droplets is possible. It is also extremely important to timely identify and treat inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, pustular skin diseases, carefully monitor the condition of the nasopharynx and teeth. It is even better if this is done before pregnancy.
During the sixth month, the anatomical formation of the parts of the brain ends: the midbrain and cerebellum are added to the previously formed parts. And on the surface of the cerebral hemispheres, the formation of grooves and convolutions is completed. However, until the final perfection of the central nervous system still far away, its development continues after birth.
The face of a six-month-old fetus becomes more meaningful. The eyelids open well-formed eyes, above them the eyebrows are distinguished. The nose takes on a sharper outline. But the most interesting thing is the ears. They increase in size and take on their final shape. The auricle, which began its development in the second month of embryonic life, is formed from a group of gradually accrete tubercles. This process is very individual, and it is never known how many tubercles grow together and where they will grow together. Hence, a wide variety of forms of the auricles in different people... It is no coincidence that this one of the most essential methods of personal identification is used in forensic science.
Although by the end of the sixth month all organs are formed and perform their functions, the fetus remains deeply premature and immature. And if he is born at this time - this can happen due to placental abruption or for other reasons - the chances of his survival will be very small, even despite the advances in modern medicine.
By the sixth month, there is a rapid increase in brain mass. Compare: at 2 months it weighs 2.0 g, at 5 months - 20-25 g, and by the end of the sixth - 100 g.
The ratio of the mass of the spinal cord to the brain sharply decreases. At three months it was 1:18, and at 6 months - 1: 100!
In the sixth month, all the senses are functioning in the fetus. The formation of the function proceeds in the following sequence: first, at the 3rd month, skin (tactile) sensitivity appears, then at 3.5 months - gustatory, followed by the vestibular function at the 5th month, ensuring balance, and later, in 5-6 months - auditory and visual.
Based on the book of Professor AI Brusilovsky "Life before birth".
Therefore, the expectant mother may have slight fears about this important moment. It is best to enroll in preparation for childbirth during this period, where they will teach you how to cope with nervousness, use breathing techniques, explain how the birth of a child goes and how it is significant.
Feelings at 6 months of pregnancy
By the end, the expectant mother is already tired of pregnancy, largely because the tummy is rapidly increasing, it becomes more and more difficult to walk. The woman is more overworked, she needs rest and calmness. Due to the increased load, the back often hurts. Itching due to sprains constantly haunts the expectant mother.
A feature of this period is frequent urination. Already a rather large fetus constantly presses on the bladder, so most women suffer from incontinence. In addition, due to improper diet, the following are often observed:
- belching;
- flatulence;
Leg cramps also happen all the time. It is necessary to rest more often and not sit in one position. Due to the fact that blood circulation is intense, capillaries in the nasal sinuses can burst, gingivitis often develops.
What happens to a baby in the sixth month of pregnancy
By this time, the baby is already practically formed, outwardly it looks the way that the mother will see him for the first time after giving birth. The brain is still actively developing, the grooves and convolutions are becoming more pronounced and clear. The skeletal system is also rapidly strengthening. The only one important body, underdeveloped at this stage, are the lungs. And although they are not yet fully formed, the bubbles are already starting to function, the baby is trying to make the first breathing movements.
The active interaction of the child with the outside world is felt. He not only pushes his mother in the stomach, but more often reacts to external factors, for example, music, light. The kid already opens his eyes and distinguishes the change in light, but while they are covered with a film, so he is not able to see clear pictures.
Allocations
The 6th month of each pregnancy is always abundant discharge, but they do not have a pronounced odor and color, more often translucent whitish. Many women resort to using pads. The presence of blood spots may indicate that it can be cured only after the pregnancy has been resolved. In case of uncharacteristic discharge, it is important to immediately consult a gynecologist and take action.
Weight: allowable increase
In the sixth month of pregnancy, the average weekly weight gain is 0.5 kg. Women whose body weight was below normal before pregnancy can gain weight faster, but overall, in the sixth month, they gain about 4.5 kg. This is largely due to an increase in the amount of water in the body. The kid at this stage is gaining about 300-400 grams.
What is the belly at 6 months of pregnancy
It will not be possible to hide a pregnancy of 6 months, because even under bulky clothes, a rounded belly will be noticeable. Stretch marks may appear on the skin during this period, therefore it is recommended to treat the abdomen with special means daily. Dry skin is another problem, so moisturizing should be a habit. At this stage, it is already necessary to wear a bandage.
Pain
At this time, characteristic pains appear: in the back, joints, in the abdomen. There are situations when a woman experiences cramping abdominal pains for a couple of hours, which in science are called Breston Higgins contractions. They are associated with increased activity of the baby in the womb and do not pose any danger. Severe and prolonged soreness in the abdomen can be the cause of real contractions, so if they occur, you should contact an observing specialist or come to the hospital.
Miscarriage
A miscarriage at this time is a rare occurrence. It can be triggered by injuries, serious illness of the mother, or pathologies that accompany the entire course of pregnancy. A miscarriage is manifested by contractions, soreness in the abdomen, and discharge of amniotic fluid.
Childbirth at 6 months of pregnancy
Childbirth in the sixth month of pregnancy is undesirable, since the fetus is at its peak in terms of brain formation. In emergency cases, maternity hospitals are already giving birth at this time and trying to save the baby's life. He will be temporarily removed from his mother in order to complete the stage of his development. Only under constant care can the health of the child be improved, but this requires vigilant patience.
Having sex
6 months of uncomplicated pregnancy and intimate life are compatible concepts. During this period, you can have sex if the gynecologist does not prescribe "sexual rest". In the absence of limiting factors, the end of the second trimester is still able to deliver pleasant emotions, since the mother is relatively active, the tummy has not yet made her clumsy and slow.
We invite you to watch an interesting video "Development of the fetus at 6 months of pregnancy" on our website.
The sixth month of pregnancy is the last month of the second trimester, when all vital systems have already been formed in the fetus, and the stage of increasing body weight begins. At that time future child is actively growing, and his organs of internal secretion produce hormones that help him regulate unconscious mechanisms of life. He is actively moving, and his mother feels these movements within herself.
At the end of the sixth month, the woman goes on prenatal leave. She has more time, and she can get ready for childbirth. Many expectant mothers at this time begin to do needlework, choose a maternity hospital where they will give birth, buy things for the baby that he will need in the first days of life.
What a woman feels
The belly at the 6th month of pregnancy is well formed and it is difficult to hide the pregnancy from prying eyes. 30-34 weeks of pregnancy and 28-32 weeks of fetal development are characterized by a rapid increase in body weight in the baby and the woman carrying it. The expectant mother adds 300 grams per week, and she should limit herself in drinking water and sweet tea so as not to exceed this norm.
At 30 weeks, symptoms of late toxicosis may develop. They are characterized by swelling of the limbs and face, which occurs due to water retention in the body. Some women at this time feel dizzy, high blood pressure. With these signs, it is recommended to limit the consumption of foods high in salt. For edema, herbal teas with diuretic properties are useful. How long late toxicosis will last depends on the general condition of the body. Its symptoms can be reduced with some medicines recommended by your local gynecologist.
The 6th month of pregnancy requires special attention in women who are at risk of Rh conflict. The local gynecologist can recommend hospitalization of the expectant mother for preventive measures that reduce the risk of developing hemolytic disease in the newborn.
Pregnancy 32 weeks requires wearing a bandage. At 6 months, there is an increase in the load on the spine, and it is required to wear orthopedic devices to help maintain the health of the musculoskeletal system. The bandage supports the large abdomen and prevents stretch marks.
Women who have worn a bandage since 30 weeks recover their figure faster after childbirth. They do not have saggy belly folds and a strongly protruding belly. In case of repeated pregnancy, a high-quality orthopedic device will prevent the appearance of a flabby abdomen. The bandage is recommended for women in the sixth month of pregnancy if there is a threat of premature birth. How much time per day you can use this device, check with your doctor. Prenatal bandage has contraindications, and before purchasing this useful device, you should consult your local gynecologist if it can be worn in a particular case.
By the end of 6 months, the urge to urinate increases. This is due to the fact that the child has sufficient weight, and the uterus actively presses the organs located next to it. Compression of the bladder often causes involuntary urination, which requires increased hygiene requirements for clothing and body.
All working women must be on antenatal leave by 33 weeks. It is already difficult for them to fulfill their official duties, and with each week the load on the body increases. The thirtieth week of fetal development requires a careful attitude towards itself.
It takes an effort to get up from the soft chair. Difficulty bending over to put on and take off your shoes. The fetus, squeezing the diaphragm, makes it difficult to breathe in deeply. During this period, a woman must take care of her health and her future baby. She needs to walk more, eat right, observe the daily routine and protect the nervous system from stress. This will make it possible to maintain health and carry the baby until the end of pregnancy.
How the fetus behaves
At the 31st week of pregnancy, the last obstetric ultrasound examination is performed, for which the district gynecologist gives a referral. His task is to find out how well the baby is developing in the womb. The doctor evaluates the condition of the fetus by examining:
- physical activity;
- breathing movements;
- palpitations;
- the degree of maturity of the placenta.
During the examination, a specialist is interested in how much the baby has gained weight, and how it corresponds to the average fetal development data. The doctor determines the size of the chest, abdomen, and the length of the femur.
Child 32 obstetric weeks takes on the appearance of an ordinary baby. His skin is smoothed, and hair grows on his head. From this age, the fetus begins its preparation for birth. The woman can feel the rhythmic tremors of the fetus. This is hiccups, the reasons for which have not been studied, but it is assumed that the child is practicing breathing exercises at this time.
His organs of sight and hearing are fully formed. The child begins to respond to familiar sounds. With harsh sounds, he can begin to actively move, in stressful situations, freeze. When the woman is at rest, the baby can lean on her stomach, and this allows her to see her feet or palms.
At 32 weeks of age, the fetus's immune system begins to function. The level of immunoglobulins, designed to protect the fetus from infections, rises. If the mother at this time eats food with a large amount of allergenic agents, the baby will suffer from allergic reactions after birth.
Fetal age 33 weeks is characterized by the organization of the central nervous system and the beginning of the accumulation of fatty layers. Improving the connections of nerve fibers helps to improve orientation in space. This allows the baby to start actively moving and changing body position.
During this period, his lungs fully mature. The amount of surfactant in them allows children to breathe on their own if they are born at this time. From this time on, fetal activity will increase, and the mother may feel multiple shocks throughout the day. If you reach 34 weeks, the pregnancy ends premature birth, the born child will be complete.
How to treat marital relations
Sex at 6 months is possible if it is fun. Weight gain requires choosing suitable posture to make the woman feel comfortable. In this month, all processes are stable, the fetus is reliably protected, and the likelihood of an accidental miscarriage in a healthy woman is unlikely.
Estrogen and progesterone affect the well-being of a woman during pregnancy and activate all body systems. Their influence on libido is quite high, and a pregnant woman is more aroused and has an orgasm faster. High-quality sex soothes the nerves, improves well-being and increases the self-esteem of the expectant mother. The woman at this time is beautiful, and the husbands are very attracted. She is desired and loved, and sex is a great way to feel closeness and the power of love.
Intimacy at this time cannot harm the fetus. It is protected by an aqueous environment, and the cervix is closed with a mucous plug.
Sex is contraindicated if:
- there is a threat of termination of pregnancy;
- the tone of the muscles of the uterus is increased;
- there is bloody discharge;
- placenta previa is observed;
- there is a destruction of the fetal bladder:
- the partner has a sexually transmitted infection.
In other cases, when the pregnancy is successful and the couple has a desire, sex is allowed. The sixth month of pregnancy is the last period when a woman's sex drive can be very active. In the last trimester, it will fade away due to the rapid growth of the fetus and the strong pressure of the uterus on nearby organs.