Weeks 14 to 16 – Gestational Age (Your Baby’s Age – Weeks 12 to 14):
During this period, your baby’s skin is still transparent, and fine hair begins to appear on their head. The little one starts sucking their thumb and ingesting amniotic fluid. Unique fingerprints are developing, and meconium is forming in the intestines, leading to the first bowel movement. You might start feeling movements in your abdomen, often referred to as “flutters,” as your baby becomes more active. Sweat glands are forming, and both the liver and pancreas begin to secrete fluids. By this stage, your baby measures about 6 inches long and weighs around 4 ounces.
Weeks 17 to 20 – Gestational Age (Your Baby’s Age – Weeks 15 to 18):
You may notice increased movement from your baby. Eyebrows and eyelashes are forming, and tiny nails are developing on their hands and feet. Your baby’s skin undergoes significant changes, beginning to produce a protective substance called “vernix” by week 20. This white, creamy coating safeguards the skin from the amniotic fluid. If you listen carefully, you can hear your baby’s heartbeat through a stethoscope. At this point, your baby is approximately 8 inches long and weighs about 12 ounces.
Weeks 21 to 23 – Gestational Age (Your Baby’s Age – Weeks 19 to 21):
At this stage, lanugo, a fine hair, covers your baby’s entire body. The fetus starts to look more like an infant as their skin becomes less transparent and begins to accumulate fat. All components of the eyes are now formed, and the liver and pancreas are working diligently to fully develop. Your baby measures between 10 to 11 inches in length and weighs about 1 to 1.5 pounds.
Weeks 24 to 26 – Gestational Age (Your Baby’s Age – Weeks 22 to 24):
As you approach the third trimester, it’s important to note that if your baby were to be born now, they could survive with medical assistance. The fetus has developed sleep-wake cycles, which you may begin to notice. Reflexes, such as the startle reflex, have developed, and air sacs in the lungs are forming. Rapid brain development occurs in the upcoming weeks, and the nervous system is maturing enough to control some bodily functions. By now, your baby is about 14 inches long and weighs approximately 2.5 pounds.
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In summary, the second trimester is a remarkable phase where your baby experiences significant growth and development. From movements and physical changes to crucial organ development, each week brings new milestones. As you navigate this journey, consider the resources available to support you and your growing family.