How does a 13-week-old fetus develop in the womb?

At the time of pregnancy at 13 weeks, you have officially entered the second trimester. Now you have also undergone an important test to measure the dullness of the nape of the neck. Congratulations and enjoy the most leisurely months of pregnancy ahead. In addition, the 13th week fetus can also let parents guess the gender of their child already!

The development of the fetus by 13 weeks

The 13-week-old fetus is about the size of a pea, nearly 7 cm long from head to toe and weighs almost 30 g. The head of this 13th week fetus is still the largest part of the body, equal to one third of the length of the body. Your baby's face is undergoing a significant change, increasingly clearly distinguishing parts. Your baby's eyes have begun to move closer together instead of lying far apart on the forehead and ears, and their eyelids are now closed to protect them. Small fluff begins to appear. Your baby may also put his thumb in his mouth this week, although the sucking muscles are not yet fully developed.

When the second trimester of pregnancy begins, the mother's placenta has developed and is responsible for providing oxygen, nutrients and waste disposal to the baby. The placenta also produces the hormones progesterone and estrogen that help maintain maternal pregnancy and fetal development. Your baby's intestines bulge closer to the umbilical cord and begin to move to the abdominal cavity. The baby's genitals have developed quite strongly so we can know with certainty the sex of the fetus.

The liver has begun to secrete bile, the kidneys produce urine and is stored in the bladder. Nerve cells are growing exponentially rapidly and nerve "joints" (connecting nerves in the brain) are forming.

The change of pregnant mother

Fetus 13 weeks onwards, morning sickness has not bothered you as much as a few weeks ago. Your body also no longer feels tired, uncomfortable, exhausted, or lethargic. The feeling of stress from worrying about miscarriage has also been much reduced. Because you understand your baby is able to develop steadily in the womb this week. The cravings also started to return. Many couples also find that the sex drive is particularly high during this time.

From this point on, your previously slim waistline gets bigger and bigger. This is a good indication for the healthy development of the fetus. A few cracks in the abdomen, chest, buttocks and anus gradually appear. In other cases, itching in the chest is also felt. Because the milk gland is gradually developing to complete the function of creating colostrum.

Advice for parents

The husband should regularly pay attention to the health of the mother and baby. Help her mother with chores more. Also regularly remind her to have regular pregnancy check-ups, the better it is if she can take her away.

Husband and wife should attend prenatal classes together to share knowledge of childcare. Should start thinking about conducting fetal education as for the fetus. For example, listening to melodious music and talking to the fetus often.

Mother should choose to wear comfortable, cool clothes. Try out some comfort underwear for pregnant women. You should exercise and walk gently.

Do not stand or sit in one place for too long, must regularly get up and move. When getting up or sitting down, avoid stooping, sitting too loose, or sitting on a chair without support; avoid sleeping too soft, that will reduce or avoid back pain.

Take good care of yourself if you want your beloved baby to be born healthy.

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