Pregnancy Week By Week
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12 Week Pregnancy Ultrasound: Purpose, Process and Results
A 12 week pregnancy sonography is an essential first-trimester scan that confirms your baby’s growth, estimates the due date, checks for multiple pregnancies, and screens for certain chromosomal abnormalities. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least one routine ultrasound before 24 weeks of pregnancy because it improves gestational age estimation, early detection of fetal anomalies, and overall pregnancy care (1). This makes the twelve week ultrasound one of the most important prenatal milestones.
In this article, you’ll learn the purpose of the scan, what happens during the procedure, how accurate the results are, and how to prepare for your appointment.
Why Do You Need an Ultrasound Scan at 12 Weeks?
Completing 12 weeks of pregnancy is an important milestone as it marks the completion of your first trimester, and your doctor may advise you to have an ultrasound scan to assess how your pregnancy is progressing. Here are a few things that your doctor will check in the 12 weeks ultrasound scan (2).
Like the previous scans, this scan helps to know the number of babies you are carrying, whether a single baby, twins or more.
It helps in establishing your baby’s gestational age by measuring the baby from crown to rump.
To check the foetal heartbeat.
To have a look at the baby’s arms, legs, chest, and head and assess if they are growing at a normal pace. true
The doctor will check the foetal spine as well to check for any abnormalities.
To measure nuchal translucency, which is the fluid under the foetal skin at the back of the neck.
The assessment of nuchal translucency helps in establishing any risk of chromosomal abnormality.
It will help the doctor to establish the health and the position of the placenta.
How to Prepare for Your 12th Week Scan?
You may be jittery and wonder what will happen during the scan. The first thing that you can do is to prepare yourself mentally for the scan. The cold and slimy gel may make you feel uncomfortable, but try to be calm and relaxed.
How Long Does This Ultrasound Scan Take?
You will be made to lie down in a peaceful room with dim lights. The entire scanning process at 12 weeks of pregnancy may take 15 to 30 minutes approximately.
How Is the 12th Week Ultrasound Scan Performed?
The doctor will apply a gel on your abdominal region and move the transducer device on your tummy. A black and white image will appear on the screen, and you can ask your doctor to explain it to you. It is normal to feel some pressure on your abdominal region, but it is not painful.
If you are overweight or your womb is too deep in your pelvis, then your doctor may recommend a vaginal scan.
What Can Be Seen in the Scan?
The following things can be observed about your baby by performing 12 weeks ultrasound scan (3):
The position of the mother’s placenta.
Baby’s limbs and spine.
Presence or absence of the foetal nasal bone and its length.
Urinary bladder and stomach of the foetus.
The blood circulation around the mother’s uterus region.
Your doctor can also spot twins in ultrasound at 12 weeks, which means if you are carrying more than one baby, the ultrasound scan will help your doctor determine the same.
How Does the Baby Look in 12-Week Scan?
At the 12-week scan, the baby is about 2 inches long, resembling a tiny human. Limbs, fingers, and toes are forming, with facial features becoming more defined (4). The scan provides an early glimpse of your growing miracle.
Can Down Syndrome Be Accurately Detected in the 12th Week Ultrasound Scan?
Wondering if you can detect down syndrome in 12 weeks pregnant ultrasound? Yes, if your baby is suffering from Down Syndrome, it can be detected in a 12-week ultrasound (3). If the baby has down syndrome, then there will be more accumulation of fluid at the nuchal fold, which is at the base of the baby’s neck. If your doctor suspects it, then the nuchal transparency test may be performed (5). Babies with Down Syndrome will have a thicker measurement in comparison to a healthy foetus.
What If Any Abnormalities Are Detected on the Scan?
The 12 week ultrasound 3D scan may be your first scan to establish the foetal growth and development. However, this scan also helps your doctor to assess any foetal abnormality. In case your baby is detected with any defect or abnormality, then you may be referred to a foetal medicine consultant. The consultant assesses the diagnosis made by your doctor and may ask you to undergo further tests or scans to confirm the abnormality.
Is This Scan a Part of Pregnancy Care?
Ultrasound scans are a great way of assessing your baby’s growth and development. These scans are affordable, non-invasive, and low risk. They are essential as they give you and your doctor a lot of information about your baby and you can also get 12-week ultrasound pictures. However, it is entirely up to the parents to take a call whether they want to go in for 12-week ultrasound scan or not. Most hospitals will give you the pictures of your ultrasound scan, and some of them may even give you a video of the scan. You can check with your doctor if this service is available.
Some parents are of the opinion that ultrasound scans should not be done. The main reason for this is that they will be put in a difficult position of making a decision to continue or abort the pregnancy, in case any foetal defect or abnormality is established.
Does Your Due Date Change at 12 Week Pregnancy Scan?
Indeed, your due date might be altered after the 12 week pregnant ultrasound. Statistics show that merely about 5% of infants are born exactly on their due date, particularly firstborns, who often arrive after the initially projected date.
Things to Keep in Mind
When you’re going for an ultrasound scan, remember to wear loose clothing so that it is easy for the doctor to access your belly.
If you have any questions for your doctor, writing them down would be helpful.
If you want a picture of the scan, you can contact the hospital in advance to ask if this service is provided.
Ask your doctor what kind of help is available in terms of prenatal classes or in case of an emergency. This can help you prepare for your baby’s birth and put your mind at ease.
FAQs
1. Where is my baby located at 12 weeks?
At 12 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is typically situated within the upper part of your uterus, nestled below your pelvic bone, and gradually moving upward as your pregnancy progresses.
2. Can my baby feel me at 12 weeks?
Yes, at 12 weeks, your baby may start feeling you soon.
3. Can a 12-week ultrasound confirm twins or multiple pregnancies?
Yes. A 12-week ultrasound can accurately confirm whether you are carrying twins or higher-order multiples. It also helps determine whether the babies share a placenta or amniotic sac, which is important for pregnancy management (6).
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18 Week Pregnant Ultrasound Scan
As you enter your 18th week of pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a detailed ultrasound examination to assess the growth and development of your unborn baby. An eighteen week ultrasound helps doctors monitor your baby’s growth, movements, and overall health. While for some women this may be the first look at their unborn baby, others may already have had an earlier scan.
An 18 week pregnant ultrasound can also provide clearer images of your baby, and some parents may even opt for an 18 week 3D ultrasound for a more detailed view. Here in the following article, we shall discuss all that you need to know about 18-week pregnancy ultrasound.
Why Should You Have an Ultrasound Scan at 18th Week of Pregnancy?
Ultrasound scan in your 18-20 week of pregnancy is a part of your routine check-up. Your doctor may advise you for an ultrasound scan because of the following reasons (1):
To establish the foetal age.
To check the number of foetuses (one or more than one)
To make estimates about the date of delivery.
To check the quantity of fluid around the foetus.
To check the cervix and the birth canal.
To see the position of the placenta
What Preparations Are Needed to Done This Scan?
There is not much preparation required for the 18 week scan. Drink sufficient water to keep your bladder full. This keeps your uterus in the correct place for the scan and helps your doctor to see the foetus clearly. Refrain from drinking too much water as it can make you extremely uncomfortable during the scanning process (2). You may ask your radiologist in advance as to how much water you are required to drink.
It will be a good idea to wear comfortable and loose clothes for the process so that the radiologist has easy access to your abdominal region.
How Long Does Eighteen Week Ultrasound Take to Complete?
On average, an ultrasound scan around 18-20 weeks of pregnancy may take from 30 to 45 minutes.
How Is This Scan Performed?
The radiologist will apply a gel on your abdominal region and run over a transducer over your belly. The scan is carried out in real-time, which means that what you will see on the screen, will be happening inside your womb during that time. You may ask the doctor to explain the images that are flashed on the screen. The main purpose of an ultrasound scan is to assess the foetal health and well-being (3).
What Can You See on 18 Week Scan?
You may ask your radiologist in advance if you wish you view the images of the scan on the screen. Though most hospitals or health centres provide for this facility, it is always good to inform in advance (3) (4) (5).
If you have an ultrasound scan for the first time, your doctor will tell you how many babies you are carrying and also your expected date of delivery.
You will also hear the foetal heartbeat for the first time.
Your radiologist may also show you your baby’s face, arms and legs. However, you may find it difficult to spot your baby’s organs, but that is absolutely fine because it is a bit difficult to understand the scan. You may ask the radiologist to help you understand the scan better.
The bones of the baby at 18 weeks pregnant ultrasound will appear white on the screen, the amniotic fluid will appear black, and the soft tissues will appear grey in colour.
After showing you the glimpses of the scan, the radiologist will then turn the screen towards himself and make other assessments. You will be handed a soft copy or a DVD of the scan after the process is over.
Are There Any Risks or After-effects of Ultrasound at 18 Weeks?
There are no after-effects of an 18 week anatomy scan, and you can easily resume your day to day activities. At the same time, there are no scientific pieces of evidence available that prove any ill-effects of an ultrasound scan on the expectant mother and her unborn child. There are no harmful radiations used to obtain the images, instead, very high-frequency sound waves are used for the purpose (6). In some cases where the foetus is farther away from the transducer, the process becomes little difficult and may take a bit longer. You may even be called after a few days for a re-scan. In the case of twins and multiple pregnancies also your doctor may face difficulties in establishing the foetal structures and you may be asked to come again after a few days.
Which Abnormalities Can Be Seen on the 18th Week Ultrasound Scan?
Some of these abnormalities may include the following (7):
Short limbs or absence of limbs
Cleft lip
Abdominal wall defects (protruding intestines)
Abdominal wall defects (protruding liver)
Abnormality related to the absence of top of the head
Severe kidney problem
Problems in the spinal cord
Excessive brain fluids
Chromosomal abnormalities
Severe heart defects
Any kinds of holes in the muscles separating the abdomen and the chest.
These medical conditions are not very common and rarely occur in babies. However, it is a good idea to get an ultrasound scan and rule out the possibilities of all these medical conditions.
What If There Are Signs of Problems on the Scan?
In case the radiologist is not able to see the foetus clearly in the scan, you will be called at a later date for a re-scan. In case you are obese, or the baby is tucked too deep into the womb, a re-scan may be suggested too. However, if your doctor sees any kind of above-mentioned abnormality or other defects, you will be told about them. You will also be told to get an appointment with a foetal medicine expert to know about the intricacy of the defect and the options available to you (5).
In case of serious abnormalities, you may be suggested to terminate the pregnancy. However, some abnormalities may require immediate medical attention soon after birth.
What to Expect After 18 Week Ultrasound?
An 18 week fetus ultrasound does not always provide a confirmed diagnosis for medical conditions, but it helps doctors identify whether any additional evaluation may be needed. After reviewing the scan, your healthcare provider will discuss the results and check if your baby’s growth and development are progressing normally.
If the doctor notices any unusual findings or potential concerns, they may recommend further testing or a follow-up ultrasound with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist (2). In some cases, additional diagnostic procedures such as amniocentesis may also be advised to gather more detailed information about the baby’s health (5).
FAQs
1. What can be seen in an 18 week 3D ultrasound?
If you are 18 weeks pregnant, 3D ultrasound may provide more detailed and lifelike images of your baby’s facial features, hands, feet, and body structure compared to a standard ultrasound.
2. Can twins be detected during an 18 week ultrasound?
Yes, an ultrasound at 18 weeks can clearly confirm a twin or multiple pregnancy and help monitor the growth and development of each baby.
3. What if my baby is not moving during the ultrasound?
Sometimes babies may be sleeping during the scan. The technician may ask you to change positions or move slightly to encourage movement.
An ultrasound scan at 18 weeks is a great way of knowing about your unborn baby’s health and well-being. Where some parents are too eager for the scan, others may decide not to go for the scan. It is absolutely left up to the parent’s discretion, whether or not they want an ultrasound scan. You may talk to your doctor about your options.
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16 Weeks Pregnant Ultrasound : What to Expect?
Hey, it’s your sweet 16th month of pregnancy! You are beginning your fourth month and entering the second trimester. There’s a lot happening inside your body, and your doctors mean well for you if they suspect anything serious. About 1 in 100 babies is born with a heart defect. Don’t worry; early interventions, like a 16-week ultrasound, can spot issues early. While 16-week ultrasounds aren’t routine, the possibility of a heart defect isn’t just one reason your doctor would recommend you have the 16-week scan. If you are scheduled for one, you will likely have it transabdominally to help the doctor assess the baby’s development, including growth of the torso, limbs, head, and facial features. In this article, we discuss everything crucial you need to expect from your ultrasound at 16 weeks. Read on!
Why Should Pregnant Women Have an Ultrasound at 16 Weeks?
Things start to get a bit exciting once you hit the 16-week mark, and an ultrasound is important to understand your baby’s progress. Prenatal care is an integral part of every mother’s journey, and here are a few reasons as to why an ultrasound is necessary at this stage.
It can help you understand your baby’s growth, and the sonographer can help measure certain parts of your baby’s body to assess any concerns.
Ultrasound will become an integral part of your journey into motherhood. It helps determine the size, structure and any pathological lesions on the foetus (1).
It can present a visual representation of your baby and help prepare for routine and emergency prenatal care.
It can help understand if your baby is healthy and safe and if there are any abnormalities.
Genetic issues can also be determined, such as Down Syndrome or any other chromosomal defects, or have any other neural tube defect.
The 16-week foetus ultrasound can determine the heartbeat and health of the heart and other organs. It can help determine if there is any heart defect as well.
What Preparation Is Needed for a 16-week Scan?
Your baby at 16 weeks’ ultrasound is the largest it has been in your pregnancy to date, and a few things need to be done before you go for a 16-week scan. Your baby, which measures around four and a half inches during the 16th week, will grow double in size very quickly, month by month, from here onwards. There will definitely be a weight gain during this time, but morning sickness will completely disappear.
Your body will start producing milk, which will lead to breast augmentation. In addition, the belly will be larger, and the skin colour will change to some extent as well.
Before a scan, it is important to carry documents about your and your partner’s medical history to your gynaecologist and ask questions regarding any symptoms or issues you may be experiencing. You should also get a full physical examination, including thyroid, breasts, lungs and heart. You should get a lab test done to check signs of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or any other urinary tract infections through urine tests.
Familiarising oneself with terms which are associated with pregnancy and medical procedures, such as ultrasound, will also help in understanding your baby better.
How Long Does a Sixteen-Week Ultrasound Take to Complete?
An ultrasound can last anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes. Before an ultrasound, a patient is asked to drink lots of water or fluids and stay away from solid food. You cannot access the toilet when you wait for the scan, but you can go relieve yourself once the procedure is complete (2).
Before you begin the test, make sure to prepare yourself mentally to wait and to understand that they take time, to image the sonography. Imaging reports also take a day to be produced, but both parents will be shown the image of their baby on the screen.
How Is Sixteen Week Scan Done?
A 16-week foetus ultrasound is done by using a device that emits high-frequency sound waves into the body. The waves hit and bounce off the various organs of the body as they travel. A probe picks up these echoes created by the bouncing sound waves and starts converting them into a moving image. These images can be accessed through a graphics display monitor. These tests are usually conducted in clinics, diagnostic centres or the radiology section of a hospital. A specially trained expert will be the only one who will be able to conduct a scan.
What Can Be Seen in the Scan?
When you get an ultrasound done at 16 weeks, your belly will look like a small cantaloupe. On the inside, however, your baby is around 4-5 inches in size and will continue to grow. Hair and fingernails are starting to develop, although they will be more noticeable once you progress in your pregnancy. You will be able to make out the head, the eyes, ears and torso of your baby. All the muscles and bones are in place, and the central nervous system is starting to exert control, so you may even see your baby move during an ultrasound.
Your baby is beginning to make expressions, but any smiling or frowning will happen randomly, as they lack muscle control at this stage. The nervous system is still maturing, allowing your baby to start moving their arms and legs. Your baby’s hands can clench into fists, and they might start jabbing around inside you as well (3).
Is It Possible to Determine the Gender of the Baby at a 16 Week Ultrasound?
Yes, you can ascertain your baby’s gender during the 16-week gender scan. The determination should be reliable since the baby’s external anatomy is fully developed by then.
However, it’s important to note that accuracy may be compromised by the baby’s positioning, potentially hindering the physician or ultrasound technician from obtaining a clear view of the baby’s anatomy for gender confirmation.
Disclaimer: Under the Pre-conception and Pre-natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994, (PC & PNDT Act), determining or disclosing the sex of a fetus before birth is illegal in India, except for specific medical indications permitted by judicial law. Therefore, all healthcare providers, including doctors, clinics, and hospitals, in India cannot reveal a baby’s gender during a 16-week fetus ultrasound or at any stage of pregnancy (4).
What If Any Abnormalities Are Seen in the Ultrasound?
When you go for an ultrasound, the sonographer will also conduct a variety of other tests to determine any abnormalities in your baby’s growth such as measuring the length of the baby’s nasal bone to determine any abnormalities in growth is one. There are several blood tests which are offered to determine any risks or abnormalities that can arise at this stage of the pregnancy.
The Triple screen is a prenatal blood test that will help assess any issues with the baby. The test primarily helps test levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein produced by the foetus’s liver and two hormones: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estriol, to determine any birth defects such as Down Syndrome, Spina Bifida (5).
It is important to discuss any concerns or anything that comes up during an ultrasound with your doctor in order to determine the next course of action for you and your baby. It is also important to take any medication or tests that are required to keep you and your baby healthy.
FAQs
1. Is a 16-week ultrasound safe for my baby?
Yes. Diagnostic ultrasounds use sound waves rather than radiation and are considered safe when performed by trained healthcare professionals for medical purposes. Thus, an ultrasound in a 16-week pregnancy is safe.
2. Can I expect twins at a 16-week ultrasound?
Yes, a normal 16-week ultrasound can show babies in detail if you are carrying twins. You can later have a 16-week twin ultrasound to confirm.
3. Which test can be done at 16 weeks?
Between 16 and 18 weeks of pregnancy, your doctor may provide you with a second-trimester screening test (16 week 3d ultrasound or normal ultrasound), known as the multiple marker test or triple screen.
4. Can a 16-week ultrasound detect birth defects?
Some structural abnormalities may be visible at 16 weeks, but the detailed anatomy scan performed around 18–22 weeks is usually more effective for identifying congenital conditions.
At 16 weeks every mother will have the pregnancy glow and move into the second trimester which is an enjoyable phase. As your baby continues to grow, more movement from the foetus will show, the belly will grow bigger, and the body prepares for the next phase of motherhood.
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11 Weeks Pregnant Ultrasound: Picture, Procedure, & more
An 11th-week ultrasound is a common thing during a pregnancy check-up to determine your due date. By around eleven weeks, your baby officially becomes a foetus from an embryo. Distinct facial features and genitalia are developing in your baby, and the eleven-week scan gives an exciting preview of the way your baby is growing inside you. The 11 weeks pregnant ultrasound is also medically significant for ruling out any anomalies, syndromes, or malformations. Let’s move ahead and see what the scan performed at eleven weeks includes, what an 11-week-old fetus looks like, why you might need an 11 weeks fetus ultrasound, and how it is done.
Purpose of the 11 Week Ultrasound Scan
The first-trimester pregnancy scan is always very special as it gives a glimpse of the developing baby. The week 11 scan gives you a sneak peek at how your baby looks for the first time. It is also the earliest stage at which the doctor can pick up certain anomalies in the baby.
At this stage, you likely won’t notice much detail regarding your baby’s limb and organ development. Because of this, it’s quite possible that you won’t have an ultrasound at 11 weeks pregnant. However, there are some reasons why you might have one.
The purpose of the week 11 scan is manifold. Here are some reasons why the 11-week scan should not be missed.
During the 11-week scan, the foetus is screened for chromosomal abnormalities like Down’s syndrome. The scan results are evaluated along with the blood test results to arrive at a diagnosis.
The position and size of the placenta are checked.
The amount of amniotic fluid is assessed.
The nuchal translucency (NT), the translucent space beneath the foetus’s neck, is used as a risk factor for the syndrome. Nuchal translucency is also used as a guideline to rule out any congenital cardiac disease.
Multiple pregnancies, if any, are clearly visible during this scan. Twins are usually visible at this stage as two clearly separate gestational sacs.
A general pregnancy health assessment is made.
The gestational age of the baby is checked based on the growth of the fetus.
Check for an ectopic pregnancy.
How to Prepare for Your 11 Week Scan
As the uterus lies low in the abdomen, going with a full bladder can help provide better visualisation of the foetus. You can drink a few extra glasses of water and prepare yourself for the scan. However, some sonographers prefer a partially full bladder. Wearing comfortable, loose clothing that easily exposes the abdomen can facilitate the procedure.
How Long Does the 11 Week Ultrasound Take?
The first-trimester ultrasound at eleven weeks is usually a simple procedure that takes a few minutes. An experienced sonographer measures the nuchal translucency quite easily. They also check for other vital growth parameters, such as crown-rump length, the diameter of the gestational sac, placental position and size, etc. The position of the foetus can delay the scan. Sometimes the baby may be turned to one side or curled up, making it very difficult to measure the tissue below the neck. Usually, the sonographer suggests repeating the scan at a later time until the correct foetal position is achieved.
How Is the 11 Week Ultrasound Scan Performed?
The week 11 scan is usually performed trans-abdominally. A cooling gel is applied to the lower abdomen, and the transducer device that sends ultrasound waves into your uterus is moved over the tummy to get a clear view of the foetus. The baby’s images are taken from the top and sides to provide a better view of all internal and external organs.
What Can Be Seen in the Scan?
Many mothers are anxious about the 11-week ultrasound. Although it is a very crucial scan that rules out any abnormalities in the foetus, there is no need to panic. It is probably the first time you get to see your moving baby, so be prepared for a lot of excitement.
The foetus is about the size of a fig (about 1.57 inches long).
The baby, at 11 weeks, looks more human with the well-formed nose, lips, webbed fingers and toes, and thin limbs (1).
By the end of the 8th week, bones begin to form, and by the 11th week, the baby’s head and bones have developed and are getting stronger (2). They will be pronounced in the 12th week.
The heart is well-formed and pumping well, and the lung tissues are in development with trachea and bronchi, and some arteries and capillaries are already developed (3).
The body is still disproportionate, with a large head and a comparatively small torso.
Facial features are more prominent now (4).
Their skin is translucent, and the eyelids are closed (5).
You can catch your baby bouncing and kicking in the watery amniotic sac.
The baby’s genital organs are beginning to form this week and may not be clearly visible in the scan.
The foetus at this stage is only an inch or two long but has a rapidly developing organ system.
What Should a Fetal Heartbeat Be At an 11 Week Ultrasound Scan?
At 11 weeks, your baby’s heartbeat is expected to rise above 170 bpm, increasing from 110 bpm around 5 to 6 weeks (6). An 11 weeks pregnant scan may provide this information, although some early ultrasounds might detect a heartbeat as soon as six weeks.
However, you can typically expect to hear a heartbeat using a Doppler fetal monitor around 10 weeks.
Although your developing baby might be evaluated for an irregular heartbeat (fetal arrhythmia) between 12 and 14 weeks, it’s more likely to be detected during the 20-week assessment (7).
What If Any Abnormalities Are Seen in the Scan?
If the 11-week foetus ultrasound indicates the possibility of chromosomal abnormalities, then you can talk to your doctor about the other confirmatory tests you can take. The NT values reflected in the scan are not conclusive evidence for a foetal abnormality. A blood test is often performed at the same time as an NT scan to detect trisomy 21 (Down’s syndrome) and trisomy 18, and sometimes 13, to corroborate the scan’s findings (8).
The doctor may also suggest an invasive procedure called amniocentesis to check for the DNA of the foetus. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) can also be offered earlier (11–13 weeks). There is a slight risk of miscarriage, and couples can decide to take it after discussing it with their genetic counsellor or doctor (9). To avoid the invasive procedure, you can wait for the anomaly scan at weeks 18-20, which can detect some mild indicators of abnormal growth. Based on all these indicators, the doctor or genetic counsellor will help you with the diagnosis and advise you about the course of action.
The week 11 NT scan is crucial in terms of identifying any congenital anomalies in the foetus. Although the scan result alone is not enough for a diagnosis, it definitely serves as a guideline for further tests.
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Impact of Birth Method on Long-Term Immunity: C-Section vs. Vaginal Delivery
As parents, we want to do everything possible to give our babies the best start in life. We think about feeding, sleep, and care, but one thing we don’t always realise is that the way a baby is born can also affect their immune system. Surprising, right? When a baby is born, the focus is often on the first cry, tiny fingers, and the joy in the room.
But little do most people know the method of delivery can have a lasting impact on the baby’s health. The way your baby enters the world plays a bigger role in their immunity than many might think. Keep reading to find out how the birth method affects your baby’s immune system and how you can support them in the best way possible.
Vaginal vs. C-Section Delivery
During a vaginal birth, babies pass through the birth canal and pick up beneficial bacteria from their mother (1). These friendly microbes start building the baby’s gut microbiome; a community of bacteria that helps with digestion, nutrient absorption, and, most importantly, training the immune system (2).
Breastfeeding adds another layer of support. Breastmilk contains prebiotics, which are special fibres that feed the good bacteria in the baby’s gut, helping them grow strong and multiply (3).
Together, this early exposure and nutrition helps to shape a baby’s natural defences from day one.
However, babies born via C-section enter the world without passing through the birth canal. That means they do not come in contact with the first natural bacteria’s present in the mother vagina (4). Instead, their early gut bacteria may be similar to the bacteria present in the the hospital, which can sometimes mean less good quality bacteria in the gut.
This difference doesn’t mean anything is “wrong”; but it may influence how the immune system matures.
Why the Gut Microbiome Matters for Immunity?
Inside all of us is something called the gut microbiome, a collection of bacteria that lives in our intestines. These bacteria help us digest food, protect us from infections, and strengthen our immune system (2) (5).
For babies, the gut microbiome starts forming even before birth. A strong and healthy microbiome helps build a stronger immune system and may even reduce the risk of allergies, asthma, and other illnesses later in life.
How C-Sections May Affect Immunity?
Babies born by C-section may have a slower start in building their gut bacteria, and that might affect how their immune system develops. Some studies suggest that babies born via C-section may have a slightly higher risk of developing allergies, asthma, and possibly infections early in life (6).
But this isn’t something to stress about. We can support their gut and immune health through smart nutrition, especially with Synbiotics.
How Do We Support the Infants Born via C-Section?
In such cases, breastmilk plays a key role. It provides not just key nutrients like fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, but also good bacteria (probiotics) and food for those good bacteria (prebiotics) which help to build gut health and also boost immunity. This is especially important for babies born via C-section. Breastmilk, is naturally rich in Synbiotics and together, they create a healthy gut environment for the baby, making digestion easier and helping the body fight infections better. Research shows that including Synbiotics in a baby’s diet at the right time can support their overall health, by boosting their immune system.
What Are Synbiotics?
Synbiotics are a powerful combination of probiotics (the good bacteria) and prebiotics (the food that helps them thrive). When taken together, they work in harmony to support a healthy gut and a strong immune system (7). For babies born via C-section, Synbiotics can help bring their gut microbiome closer to that of babies born through vaginal delivery (8).
Specific Synbiotic combinations help mimic the benefits of naturally available bacteria. These Synbiotics can be especially helpful for babies born via C-section or those with sensitive digestive systems.
While Synbiotics aren’t a replacement for the natural process of birth, they can be a valuable way to help bridge the gap, giving your baby’s immune system the support it needs during those early, important months. If your baby was born through C-section, you might want to ask your doctor about how and when to introduce Synbiotics for better gut health and build strong immunity.
Well, not every parent can choose how their baby is born, and that’s completely okay. What matters is how we support them after birth. With the right nutrition, care, and a little help from science, your baby’s immune system can grow stronger every day.
References/Resources
1. American Museum of Natural History – Building Your Microbiome from Birth
2. Cleveland Clinic – Gut Microbiome
3. PubMed Central – The Prebiotic and Probiotic Properties of Human Milk: Implications for Infant Immune Development and Pediatric Asthma
4. National Library of Medicine – Vaginal Delivery
5. Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health – The Microbiome
6. PubMed Central – The infant microbiome development: mom matters
7. PubMed Central – Synbiotics: a technological approach in food applications
8. PubMed Central – Clinical outcomes following pre-, pro- and synbiotic supplementation after caesarean birth or antibiotic exposure in the first week of life in term born infants: A systematic review of the literature
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Yoga Poses for Instant Relaxation at Work
So there are 274 new emails in the inbox, a bundle of files left to be looked into, a conference call in ten minutes and a brainstorming session to be attended in an hour’s time. It clearly means you barely have any time to relax your desk hunch from sitting in front of your computer the whole day. And of course, when you want to relax and calm your nerves down from the usual office routine, a weekend by the seaside might sound great, but not always possible. True, isn’t it?
Most of the time when we stand after sitting for a long time at work in the office, our lower back, shoulders and spine are screaming their lungs out with pain and soreness. This is not only unhealthy but also invites a lot of risks to our body in the long run. Hence, yoga stretches at the desk during the long hours of your work can help you relieve stress, increase concentration and make you feel better to a great extent.
Yoga helps your body to relax and breathe when you are fatigued through constant office work. Yoga poses will not only leave you feeling energized but you can also try them without disturbing your co-workers.
Hence, try these five simple yet powerful yoga poses for instant relaxation at the office:
1. Seated Forward Bend
This helps you open tight shoulders. All you have to do is, push your chair back away from your desk and stand with both feet flat on the floor. Now, slightly turn your toes in and entwine your fingers in a fist, behind your back. Straighten your arms away from the shoulders, inhale and bring the interlaced fingers down. Exhale and fold at the waist by bringing your hands over your back. Keep the legs straight. Finally, rest your upper half of the body and chest on your thighs by slowly releasing your neck.
2. Stretch and Release the Wrist
Continuous hours of typing can take a toll on your fingers and wrists. All you have to do is, try the stretch and release the wrist action. It’s as simple as it sounds! Firstly, just stand up and stretch your hands in a way that the wrist faces the computer and your fingers face the desk’s edge. Flatten your palms as much as you can by leaning into the wrists. You might feel the pain getting released. In case you feel too much pain you can stop. Secondly, try pressing your fingertips towards the top of your arm and then bend each wrist in the opposite direction by pressing these fingertips toward the inside of your wrist.
3. Roll the Neck
In case you are wearing heels, take them off before trying this yoga pose. Now, close your eyes and look down by resting your chin on the chest. Start circling your neck slowly by taking the right ear over the right shoulder, head back and then the left ear over the left shoulder. Make sure you keep your shoulders extremely relaxed while doing this and not speeding it up. First, do it in the clockwise direction and then anti-clockwise direction and then repeat.
4. Seated Spinal Twist
The seated spinal twist will help you get rid of back pain due to constant sitting. Sit straight on your chair. Inhale deeply, and while exhaling twist to your sideways sitting on your chair. Hold the armrest of your chair and ensure that when you twist to your side, you do so from the bottom of your spine, stressing more on the abdomen and less on the back. Now, breathe and repeat the same by twisting to the other side.
5. Seated Forward and Backbend
Move back from your desk and bring both your feet flat on the floor. Entwine your fingers behind and straighten your arms. Now fold the arms at the waist. Followed by this, rest your chest over your thighs and then release your neck. For the backbend, sit with your spine straight and take a deep breath by opening your arms wide towards the ceiling. When you exhale, look slowly behind yourself and slightly bend from your upper back and chest. Hold this position for a few seconds, then release both your arms to your sides and then repeat it again.
If peace of mind and an energized body is what you look for in between your long stretched working hours, then yoga is the key. So, get set, breathe deep and get ready to feel awesome!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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Pregnant Belly Pictures – Week By Week Photos
Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences in the life of a woman. It is a unique and special bond of love that starts even before the baby is born and will only grow as time passes by. Parents-to-be are anxious to welcome their bundle of joy. As the baby bump keeps growing week by week, you might wonder what changes lie ahead and seek information to prepare for them. Other than personal experiences and medical information, pregnant belly photos of other moms-to-be can help you gauge the progress of your own growth. Pregnant belly pictures are a beautiful keepsake that you can cherish tomorrow. In this article, you’ll find pictures of a pregnant belly week by week to help you compare and be prepared for the coming months.
When Will Your Pregnant Belly Start to Show?
Isn’t it exciting to know when you will actually start showing your precious little bump? Well, for most women, they start showing at around 16-20 weeks of gestation. However, this depends on woman to woman and for some, their bump may not be noticeable until the end of the second trimester and even into the third trimester. A lot of woman start showing sooner during their second pregnancy.
Pregnant Belly Images Week-By-Week
Celebrate your baby bump love as you scroll down these pictures that help you know the week-by-week progress of a pregnancy. Every baby is unique, and so is the pregnancy bump. A mini bump that barely shows signs of pregnancy in the first trimester will eventually grow to the size of a large watermelon or pumpkin as the pregnancy progresses. These images range from super small baby bumps to plus-size pregnancy belly bump pictures showing the week-by-week pregnancy development. Flaunt your baby bump in style in ‘belfies’ or bump selfies. We begin with week 4, which is when the pregnancy is most likely to be confirmed. Although there may not be a visible baby bump, it is the time when the changes in the body can be experienced.
4 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Life has just begun. The cells are multiplying.
5 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The little one is as tiny as an apple seed.
6 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby is now as big as a blueberry.
7 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby has grown to the size of a raspberry.
8 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby now resembles a kidney bean.
9 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby is now like a jiggly jelly bean, but the belly still doesn’t show a bump.
10 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
So far, there are not many physical changes visible to others. However, your baby is growing and at week 10, and measures about an inch-and-a-half, and is probably the size of a prune. Your belly still won’t show a bump.
11 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Now the baby is the size of a little lime. A little bit of the bump will also be visible this week, but it can be concealed with proper clothing.
12 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Ok. Now the baby bump is visible. Make way, please!
13 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Mommy is now eating for two or probably three. Never mind, one more ice cream, please!
14 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The second trimester is here. The baby is as big as a peach.
15 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Morning sickness could last all day! And the little one is still the size of a peach.
16 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Can’t stop touching my tummy! The baby is growing, and the bump is further visible as the uterus is growing, too.
17 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The below at week 17 is usually as big as a pomegranate. Mama is still tired and needs to pee often as the baby grows!
18 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
It’s time to shop for new clothes. My baby needs room for growth! In week 18, the baby is as long as a cucumber and expands the uterus to approximately the size of a sweet potato.
19 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Visibly pregnant, your belly would be as big as a mango. People start noticing the bump, so don’t be surprised when they started offering a seat on the bus!
20 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Almost halfway through. See you soon, my little one! At week 20, the baby measures about 22 centimetres. As pregnancy progresses, your weight and belly will grow in size.
21 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The baby is now the size of a burger. Now, get me some fries with extra mayonnaise!
22 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Mommy’s loving all the attention! The baby continues growing at week 22, and so does the belly, but the size remains almost as big as it was in week 20 or 21.
23 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Mommy can feel the tummy stretching. The belly also measures about 21 to 25 centimetres from the top of the uterus to the public bone. A little more belly is visible as the pregnancy weight also increases.
24 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Cannot fit in my denims. Is it ok to be all day in my PJ’s? Yes, it is, because your baby is now roughly the size of a cantaloupe.
25 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
And the stretch marks are growing. Just like my baby. As the bump grows further, you could also experience back pain due to the bump.
26 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Clothes! Mommy needs new clothes. We are nearing the third trimester. The baby is approximately 14 inches.
27 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The skin is glowing, and mommy is waiting for her little one’s arrival. The belly won’t appear much bigger than what it was in the 26th week.
28 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The tummy looks like a melon. A large melon! The belly also hangs down as the baby is now preparing to enter the world.
29 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby’s kicking up a storm inside, and the belly button pops out as the baby has now grown about 16 inches long.
30 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The nursery is ready. Should I paint it blue or pink? It’s time to pace work on the child’s nursery, but with caution. Your belly measures 28 to 32 centimetres and needs you to slow down to avoid accidents.
31 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The scan shows baby as big as asparagus (a little over 16 inches). Wonder why mommy is getting so big!
32 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Feels like carrying a watermelon! The belly now hangs a little lower, and the size is substantially bigger than the past few weeks (32 to 34 centimetres).
33 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby is now as big as a Napa cabbage. Mommy’s tummy is much bigger, too!
34 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Hey, bestie! Can we please go shopping for bigger clothes? That’s because the expectant mother’s belly now measures 32 to 36 centimetres.
35 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
The baby is now as big as butternut squash!
36 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Need to rub my belly with some almond oil. It is stretched and itchy! The baby is now approximately 19 inches long.
37 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Yay! I can’t stop clicking pictures of my journey to motherhood. The belly won’t seem any bigger now, because the baby is preparing to enter the world.
38 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Baby’s coming anytime now! The baby is approximately 35 centimetres and weighs roughly 3.3 kilograms.
39 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
We are closer. Hope I reach the delivery room on time! The baby’s weight has increased a bit (approximately 3.6 kilograms) and measures about 21 inches long.
40 Weeks Pregnant Belly Picture
Waiting to hold you in my arms! The baby is now about 22 inches long.
Mommy-to-be will feel the stomach tightening as early as the first trimester when the uterus starts expanding. The baby bump will start to show from 12th to 16th week of pregnancy. As the baby develops, it needs more space in the belly. The skin around your stomach will stretch to accommodate the little one.
How Can You Love Your Pregnant Belly?
There are many ways you can show your love to your pregnant belly and the baby growing on the other side. It may be difficult to accept your growing size, but remember that you are bringing life into this world! Here are some ways you can show your love to your growing belly:
Massage your baby bump
Try out an aqua natal class or go swimming
Try out yoga
Practice hypnobirthing
Keep a picture of your baby’s scan nearby
Take pics of your pregnant belly
FAQs
1. When does the belly button pop out during pregnancy?
For many women, this happens in the second trimester, often later on as the belly stretches. Some notice their belly button slowly flattening, while others see it turn outward. Not everyone experiences this change, and both are completely normal (1). If you sense there is something weird with your pregnancy, don’t hesistate to consult your doctor.
2. How often should I take my baby bump photos?
It’s completely your choice when you want to start taking pic of pregnant belly. Some women enjoy taking weekly pictures to capture every small change, while others prefer monthly updates. Pick a schedule that fits comfortably into your routine and doesn’t feel like a chore.
3. When should I start taking baby bump pictures?
You can start whenever you feel ready. Some women begin documenting their journey early in the first trimester, while others wait until their bump becomes more noticeable in the second trimester. There’s no right or wrong time; just choose what feels meaningful to you.
4. What pose looks most flattering during pregnancy?
Well, a side profile is usually the most flattering to highlight the picture of a pregnant woman’s belly. You can gently hold your belly while slightly angling your shoulders toward the camera to create a soft, loving feel. Put on your small smile and relaxed posture to capture that natural pregnancy glow as well as a beautiful image of pregnant belly.
5. What should I wear to show my baby bump nicely?
Go for clothes that feel good on your body and gently follow your curves. Stretchy fabrics help define your bump without being tight. If you enjoy colour, try bright shades or subtle prints to add personality to your pictures. Feeling good in what you’re wearing always makes a difference.
6. What should I wear for bump progress photos?
Choose outfits that feel comfortable but gently outline your shape. A soft, stretchy dress or a snug top paired with leggings works beautifully. The idea is to highlight your growing belly without feeling restricted. Pick something that makes you feel relaxed and confident; you’ll see that comfort reflected in your photos.
7. Why am I not showing yet?
It’s common for the bump to become noticeable closer to the middle of pregnancy, though timing varies widely. Body shape, muscle tone, and whether it’s your first pregnancy can all play a role. Sometimes, due dates are slightly off, too. Each pregnancy unfolds differently, and that’s perfectly normal.
The size of the baby bump depends on many parameters, such as the height and build of the mother, the development of the baby, multiple fetuses, etc. Although in the article above, we have mentioned the approximate weight and size at certain weeks, your baby may not weigh or measure as much, but still be healthy. You must get all your checkups on time to confirm your little one is doing absolutely fine inside your womb. Then all you have to do is enjoy each phase as you are greeted with smiling faces and priority treatment. Click a lot of pictures of your journey towards motherhood, too, and share them with your loved ones and other mommies to be.
Also Read:
Body Changes In Pregnant Women – Week By Week
Week by Week Chart of Belly Size during Pregnancy
Week by Week Baby Size Comparison with Fruits and Veggies
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Baby Size Week By Week Comparison With Fruits and Veggies
From the moment of conception to delivery, your baby grows by leaps and bounds inside you. It’s a joyous feeling to try to guess what size your baby would be inside your womb at different stages! The gestational age of a baby is initially determined using ultrasound scans using markers like sac length and length from crown to rump. This is because every baby grows at the same pace only up to a certain stage of pregnancy. Here, we attempt to explain how big your baby is getting and the uterus size by week with fruits and veggies as examples. Read on to know the baby fruit size by week comparison and get a glimpse into which fruits or vegetable size your little one may represent currently!
How Big Is Your Baby?
Studying your baby’s size during pregnancy is fascinating. At the time of conception, your baby is discernable. The size of the foetus at every stage during pregnancy is used as a benchmark to determine if the pregnancy is progressing normally and if your baby is growing as she ought to be. When you’ve just become pregnant, your baby is barely the size of a seed. From this size, your baby will gain up to 3.5 kilos of weight by the time she is born.
Baby Size: Weeks 1 to 3
At this stage, the fertilisation of the egg happens in the mother’s body and the zygote attaches itself to the uterus. Your baby has just been formed at this stage and begins growing from two cells.
Week 4 Baby Size
In medical terms, the baby is called a blastocyst. If one had the chance to look at the baby, it would look like a group of cells bunched up together like a ball. It would be comparable to the size of a poppy seed.
Baby Weight:
The baby’s weight is barely discernible at this stage, weighing in at less than a gram.
Baby Length:
Your baby is very tiny at this stage and can be identified as a sac in the ultrasound scan. The baby would be less than 3mm in length.
How You Will Feel:
This is the start of the first signs that you are pregnant – bleeding and mild cramping, for example. However, most women dismiss these symptoms as they can easily be confused with the symptoms of the start of the menstrual cycle.
Week 5 Baby Size
Your baby is roughly the size of an apple seed. During this phase, organs such as the liver and kidney begin to form.
Baby Weight:
The baby’s weight at this stage is negligible; it is less than a gram.
Baby Length:
At this stage, the baby is about 0.13 inches long.
How You Will Feel:
You will start experiencing some of the more apparent symptoms of pregnancy, such as morning sickness and frequent urination.
Week 6 Baby Size
Your baby’s size can be compared to that of a sweet pea. During this phase, the eyes, nose, tongue, and vocal cords begin to form.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will be too small to have any significant weight.
Baby Length:
Your baby will measure just 0.25 inches in length at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
Your baby bump may still not be visible, but you may experience pregnancy-related issues like mood swings, cramps, and sore breasts.
Week 7 Baby Size
The size of your baby is comparable to that of a blueberry at this stage, and the brain will grow by almost a third of its full size.
Baby Weight:
The baby’s weight is still negligible.
Baby Length:
At this stage, your baby measures between 13 and 18 mm in length.
How You Will Feel:
A few moms-to-be might get lucky and not experience any symptoms at all, but most pregnant women will experience nausea, food cravings, and acne.
Week 8 Baby Size
As you approach the 8-week mark, your baby will be half an inch in length and the size of a kidney bean. The baby has just about ‘lost its tail’ and has fingers that are webbed in nature.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh around 1.1 grams (0.04 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will measure half an inch in length at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
Moms-to-be usually begin feeling the symptoms of early pregnancy during this stage. A rush of hormones can make one sensitive to the faintest of smells, and dream about things that are stranger than usual. Other issues that one might face include nausea, lightheadedness, and bloating.
Week 9 Baby Size
Your baby will be the size of a grape. Its milk teeth will be forming at this point, along with hair follicles.
Baby Weight:
The baby weighs 1.9 grams (0.07 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
The foetus is usually 0.9 inches long at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
One will experience the usual pregnancy symptoms such as headaches and morning sickness.
Week 10 Baby Size
At this stage, your baby is the size of a tiny tangerine. Your baby has a fully functioning heart and will begin to grow a set of arms and legs.
Baby Weight:
The baby weighs approximately 3.9 grams (0.14 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
The baby’s length will be 1.25 inches at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
Apart from the regular symptoms, you may also experience pain in the abdomen as your uterus grows larger to accommodate the foetus.
Week 11 Baby Size
Your baby is as big as a fig now and is well on its way to developing its arteries and veins.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh 7 grams (0.25 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
At 1.61 inches, your baby is growing rapidly in length.
How You Will Feel:
Along with the regular symptoms, you may experience issues with gas, which is why you should avoid beans and fried food, and focus on fibre-rich food.
Week 12 Baby Size
Your baby is the size of a lime at this stage, and its soft body is gradually developing bones.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh 14 grams (0.49 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 2.13 inches long at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
You should see a reduced bout of morning sickness and increased energy. However, you are likely to experience headaches due to changes in blood pressure.
Week 13 Baby Size
Your baby is now the size of a pea pod from head to toe. You can clearly view the hands, legs and head in an ultrasound scan. You will also see that the baby is constantly moving and very active at this stage.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh 23 grams (0.81 ounces).
Baby Length:
At 2.91 inches in length, your baby will be very visible on an ultrasound scan.
How You Will Feel:
This will be the best phase of your pregnancy period as nausea will go down, your energy levels will increase, and there will be a spike in your libido.
Week 14 Baby Size
Your baby is now the size of a big lemon and is in the process of exercising its facial muscles which will change its expressions ever so often.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh over 42 grams (1 and a half ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will measure 3.9 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
You will have surprisingly thick, silky hair and won’t feel lethargic anymore.
Week 15 Baby Size
Your baby can be compared to the size of an apple or small pear at this stage. Your baby’s sense of hearing is getting developed, and it can most probably hear the soothing rhythm of your heartbeat.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs 68 grams (2.4 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be closing in on 4 inches of length at this phase.
How You Will Feel:
If you are a second-time mother, you may begin to feel your baby move around this time. It may take much longer for new mothers to recognise or feel the baby move.
Week 16 Baby Size
Your baby is now the size of an avocado and has a fully functional circulatory system in place.
Baby Weight:
At 100 grams (3.53 ounces), your baby is gaining weight rapidly.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be over 4.5 inches in length at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
At this stage, you will be dealing with a mixed bag of symptoms. On one hand, you’ll be dealing with backaches and constipation, and on the other, you will have radiant and glowing skin.
Baby Size 17 Weeks
Your baby is now the size of a pear and has developed its unique fingerprint by this point.
Baby Weight:
At 140 grams (4.94 ounces), your baby is slowly filling in your uterus.
Baby Length:
Your baby will have stretched to nearly 5.12 inches in length at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
As the baby is growing at a rapid pace, you might experience strange dreams, weight gain, and increased fluids in your body.
Baby Size 18 Weeks
Your baby’s size is comparable to that of a sweet potato, and the sex of the baby will become clear.
Baby Weight:
The baby weighs 190 grams (6.70 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby would be well over 5.5 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
If you haven’t already, you should start to feel the baby move.
Baby Size 19 Weeks
Your baby will be nearly as big as a mango and the sensory organs will continue to develop at a rapid pace.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs nearly 238 grams (8.4 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 6 inches long at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
Ligament pains aren’t unusual at this stage. As your uterus expands and puts pressure on your body, you may feel dizzy and lightheaded. Some women may also experience leg cramps and hip pain at this stage.
Baby Size 20 Weeks
Your baby is almost as big as a banana now. Second-time mothers can usually feel the baby move at this stage as the baby becomes more active every day.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs 283 grams (10 ounces) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby is over 10.5 inches in length at this time.
How You Will Feel:
Swelling and shortness of breath are common at this stage. You may also experience high bursts of energy at times.
Baby Size 21 Weeks
Your baby is the size of a bulky carrot. At this point, the baby’s rate of growth will begin to outpace the placenta.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs nearly 340 grams (12 ounces).
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 10.58 inches long.
How You Will Feel:
Your baby bump should be rather noticeable at this stage. Leg cramps can feel more severe. You may also experience vaginal discharge, which is normal.
Baby Size 22 Weeks
Your baby will be the size of a squash at the 22-week mark.
Baby Weight:
At over 425 grams (15 ounces) in weight, your baby is now nearly half a kilogram.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be nearly 11 inches long.
How You Will Feel:
Your skin may become itchy, and you may experience heartburn. Your body may also prepare for the impending delivery by experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, a type of pre-labour uterine contraction.
Baby Size 23 Weeks
Your baby is as big as a grapefruit at this stage, and its bone marrow has begun to produce red blood cells on its own.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh 498 grams (1.1 pounds) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby’s size will be nearly 11.4 inches from head to heel.
How You Will Feel:
Lingering backaches, swollen gums and ankles are all common discomforts experienced by pregnant women during this phase of their pregnancy.
Baby Size 24 Weeks
Your baby is now the size of an ear of corn.
Baby Weight:
Your baby is nearly 589 grams (1.3 pounds).
Baby Length:
Your baby is now a whole foot long, and much bigger than when it was first formed.
How You Will Feel:
The linea nigra or the line that runs along the centre of your belly will darken and be very visible at this stage. You may also see stretch marks as your baby pushes your uterus out, and your skin expands to accommodate this change.
Baby Size 25 Weeks
Your baby is comparable to an acorn squash at this stage and is active enough to respond to unpleasant sounds with an occasional kick or two.
Baby Weight:
Your baby is nearly 680 grams (a pound and a half) in weight.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 13.6 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
You may have trouble sleeping and may have the urge to urinate more frequently.
Baby Size 26 Weeks
Your baby resembles a head of kale in size and has a fairly developed spinal cord.
Baby Weight:
At a whopping 771 grams (1.7 pounds), your baby is now much heavier than when first seen on a scan.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be over 14 inches in length.
How Will You Feel:
Your blood pressure may elevate at this point – make sure to track it. You may find that you have difficulty remembering things, unlike before. Your belly will be much bigger, and this may be the right time to switch to comfortable-fitting maternity clothes.
Baby Size 27 Weeks
Your baby is as big as a cauliflower. Its ears have developed and it can distinguish your sound at this stage.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs 861 grams (1.9 pounds) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby is a little over 14.4 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
The regular discomfort of the second trimester will continue, but as you step into the third trimester, you will also experience stronger fetal movements as your belly expands.
Baby Size 28 Weeks
Your baby is now the size of a large eggplant and you may hear hiccups often, which is normal.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh nearly 997 grams (2.2 pounds).
Baby Length:
Your baby will be about 15 inches long.
How You Will Feel:
As your baby grows and your stomach expands, you will experience several difficulties. The growing size of your uterus will create pressure on your bladder, thus creating frequent urges to empty it. Your baby’s movements will also be stronger, and will probably keep you up at night.
Baby Size 29 Weeks
Your baby is as large as a butternut squash, and a large part of it constitutes the brain which is developing at a rapid pace.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will easily reach 1.1 kg (2.5 pounds) of weight at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 15.2 inches long.
How You Will Feel:
You may experience constipation, haemorrhoids and itchy skin at this point. It will be difficult to get a good night’s sleep, and you will be recommended to sleep on your side to avoid straining your back with your growing stomach size.
Baby Size 30 Weeks
Your baby is as big as a large cabbage at this stage, and the growth of the baby in terms of size is likely to decelerate.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs 1.3 kg (2.91 pounds).
Baby Length:
Your baby’s length is 15.7 inches at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
Your baby’s size has reached up to your rib cage and you will feel shortness of breath and exhaustion at this stage of your pregnancy.
Baby Size 31 Weeks
Your baby could be comparable to a large coconut at this stage, and it would have a sense of taste that is developed enough to taste the amniotic fluid.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh over 1.4 kg (3 pounds) at this time.
Baby Length:
The baby will be 16.2 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
An achy back, heartburn, swelling of your extremities, and light contractions are normal pregnancy symptoms at this stage.
Baby Size 32 Weeks
Your baby is now the size of a Chinese cabbage and has a complete set of toes and fingernails.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh 1.7 kg (3.8 pounds).
Baby Length:
Your baby will be over 16.7 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
During this time, a pregnant woman is likely to experience vaginal discharge, dark nipples, and leaky breasts.
Baby Size 33 Weeks
Your baby is now the size of a pineapple and is well on its way to having an immune system.
Baby Weight:
Your baby weighs nearly 1.9 kg (4.2 pounds) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 17.2 inches long now.
How You Will Feel:
You may have headaches as you grow increasingly exhausted. Always stay hydrated, and be careful when you move around.
Baby Size 34 Weeks
Your baby is now the size of a melon and has probably developed a layer of fat to insulate itself from losing too much heat.
Baby Weight:
Your baby is 2.1 kg (4.7 pounds) in weight.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be over 17.7 inches long.
How You Will Feel:
You may feel your stomach lower than it was a few weeks ago. This is because the baby would have descended to the pelvis for delivery.
Baby Size 35 Weeks
Your baby is now as big as a honeydew melon and you will experience a lot more movement during this time.
Baby Weight:
Your baby is 2.4 kg (5.3 pounds) heavy.
Baby Length:
Your baby will measure 18 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
One might need to go to the bathroom more frequently because the baby would be pressing down on the bladder as it would have moved to the pelvic region by now.
Baby Size 36 Weeks
Your baby is as big as a Romaine Lettuce at this stage, and there is a chance that the baby’s head has shifted down to the pelvis.
Baby Weight:
Weight gain slows down, and the baby will weigh 2.6 kgs (5.78 pounds) at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby will measure 18.6 inches in length at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
The baby’s descent will be putting pressure on your pelvic floor. On the bright side, your ability to breathe will improve as the lungs have more space to expand.
Baby Size 37 Weeks
Your baby is now as long as a bunch of Swiss chard leaves – the baby’s brain and lungs will continue to mature during this time.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will be 2.8 kg (6.3 pounds) on average at this stage.
Baby Length:
Your baby is roughly 19 inches long at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
You will experience Braxton Hicks contractions which may be confused with labour pain. You may notice increased discharge and vaginal spotting.
Baby Size 38 Weeks
At 38 weeks, your baby is the size of a stalk of rhubarb.
Baby Weight:
Your baby may weigh 3 kg (6.8 pounds) on average.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be roughly 19.5 inches long by this phase.
How You Will Feel:
Your contractions may come closer together. Pay attention to make sure you do not confuse labour pains with Braxton Hicks contractions. One may also experience anxiety as one anticipates the baby’s delivery.
Baby Size 39 Weeks
Your baby now resembles the size of a small watermelon and develops a new layer of skin which is much tougher than its older skin.
Baby Weight:
Your baby will weigh nearly 3.1 kg (7 pounds).
Baby Length:
Your baby will easily measure 20 inches in length.
How You Will Feel:
Along with Braxton Hicks contractions, one will experience thick, mucous-like discharge along with blood.
Baby Size 40 Weeks
You have officially come to the end of your pregnancy. Your baby will be as big as a watermelon, and your pregnancy will soon culminate in the delivery of your child.
Baby Weight:
A full-term baby weighs 3.4 kg (7.6 pounds) on average.
Baby Length:
Your baby will be 20.2 inches long from head to toe at this stage.
How You Will Feel:
You made it! Now, just hang in there till your body decides it is time for the birth. Get as much rest as you can, for your body needs the energy and strength to push out a little being.
FAQs
1. Does the Size of the Baby in the Womb Affect Delivery?
Yes, the baby’s size does have an effect on delivery. A larger baby might need help in terms of vacuum or forceps assistance or a caesarean. On the other hand, a smaller baby could have other delivery complications like a decrease in blood flow or a dip in oxygen levels.
2. Can a Baby Be Larger or Smaller Than the Average Size in the Womb?
Yes, even with the above-depicting pregnancy sizes in fruit, a baby could be larger or smaller than the average size. This is because genetics plays a great role in the baby’s size. Also, gestational growth rate and nutrition consumed during pregnancy influence the baby’s size.
3. What does Fundal Height Measurement Mean and How Is It Used to Determine Fetal Size?
Fundal height refers to the distance between the pubic bone and the uterus’s top. This differs from person to person. A larger than normal indicates a large baby with or without adequate amniotic fluid, while a smaller fundal height than expected signifies slow fetal growth and low amniotic fluid levels.
Now that you’ve seen your baby’s size compared to fruit week by week, understand that after a certain stage, every baby takes her own pace of growth. Hereditary factors, maternal nutrition and health come into play at this stage, and this is why every baby has a different size, weight and head circumference at the time of birth. Eating right and healthy is the key to a successful pregnancy. This vegetable pregnancy comparison information will also help you enjoy these natural changes in your body! Have a happy pregnancy!
References/Resources:
1. Your Baby’s Development: The First Trimester; American Academy of Family Physicians; https://familydoctor.org/your-babys-development-the-first-trimester/
2. Your Baby’s Development: The Second Trimester; American Academy of Family Physicians; https://familydoctor.org/your-babys-development-the-second-trimester/
3. Your Baby’s Development: The Third Trimester; American Academy of Family Physicians; https://familydoctor.org/your-babys-development-the-third-trimester/
4. Pregnancy – week by week; Victoria State Government Department of Health; https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-week-by-week
5. Large for Gestational Age; University of Rochester Medical Center; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=90&ContentID=P02383
6. Small for Gestational Age; University of Rochester Medical Center; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=90&ContentID=P02411
7. Fetal development: The 1st trimester; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/prenatal-care/art-20045302
8. Fetal development: The 2nd trimester; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20046151
9. Fetal development: The 3rd trimester; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20045997
Also Read:
Pregnant Belly Week by Week
Baby Growth in Each Trimester
Week by Week Foetal Growth Chart
Read more
When Can You Hear Your Baby’s Heartbeat in Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a time filled with excitement, curiosity, and countless questions. From the moment you see those two pink lines, you may start imagining your growing baby and eagerly wait for reassuring signs that everything is progressing well. While physical changes like a visible baby bump take time, especially in the first trimester, many expectant mothers look forward to one unforgettable milestone: hearing their baby’s heartbeat for the first time.
As your pregnancy progresses, you might notice gentle pulsing or rhythmic sensations in your abdomen, which can make you wonder: can you feel your baby’s heartbeat with your hand, or is it just your own pulse? While it’s exciting to imagine feeling your little one’s heartbeat at home, in reality, detecting it usually requires medical equipment. Let’s find out when a baby’s heartbeat can first be heard, how it’s detected, and what those early sensations in your womb really mean.
Is It Possible to Feel Your Baby’s Heartbeat in Your Stomach?
One of the most magical moments during pregnancy is to feel a baby’s heartbeat in the womb, even before a visible baby bump appears. However, this sensation should not be confused with the rhythmic pulsing you may notice in your abdomen. Many pregnant women experience a pulse in the stomach, which is usually caused by increased blood flow rather than the baby’s heartbeat.
This pulsing sensation is most often the pulse of the abdominal aorta, a large artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the lower part of the body (1). During pregnancy, blood volume increases and blood vessels become more relaxed, making this pulse more noticeable, especially in the second and third trimesters.
While it can feel reassuring, this sensation is not your baby’s heartbeat. A fetal heartbeat can usually be detected around 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy through an ultrasound, and it cannot be felt by hand without medical equipment for several more weeks (2).
When Does a Fetus Have a Heartbeat?
You can hear a fetus’ heartbeat once its cardiovascular system has started forming. This usually occurs 5 weeks into the pregnancy (3). Once the fetus’ cardiovascular system is formed, the heart starts beating shortly.
When Can Fetal Heartbeat be Heard?
The earliest a fetal heartbeat can be heard is at 5-6 weeks of gestation or pregnancy. This is detected via vaginal ultrasound. However, the fetal heartbeat can better be assessed at 6-7 weeks of pregnancy (2).
Reasons Why You Cannot Feel Your Baby’s Heartbeat
As mentioned above, if you feel the pulsing sensation, it will be the pulsing of your abdominal aorta, which will be more prominent during pregnancy. In the early stages of pregnancy, you won’t feel your baby’s heartbeat in the stomach because your baby is protected by his own body, then further shielded by amniotic fluid, the amniotic sac, your uterus, muscles, and the skin of your body.
During the first four weeks of your pregnancy, you will not feel his heartbeat in your womb because his heart will begin to develop roughly three weeks after conception and will develop completely by four to five weeks. Also, the force of contraction in such a minuscule heart will virtually be indiscernible because of so much cushioning around it. Even at full-term gestation, when your baby’s heart will most likely be beating at 110 to 150 beats per minute, it will be impossible for you to feel his heartbeat without an external device (4).
Can You Hear a Baby’s Heartbeat With a Stethoscope?
Although it is possible to hear the heartbeat of a baby in the womb using a stethoscope, you may not be able to hear it as clear as you do at the doctor’s clinic. You can hear your baby’s heartbeat using a stethoscope after the 18-20th week of gestation.
How Does a Doctor Check Baby’s Heartbeat?
During pregnancy, your doctor will conduct a transvaginal scan. A transvaginal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to project as-is images of a pregnant woman’s internal organs. The sound waves help create the image of the foetus (5). Your doctor will most likely suggest a Doppler scan to check your baby’s heartbeat around the twelfth week of your pregnancy. He will detect the baby’s heartbeat using a Doppler device, which helps detect the heartbeat of the foetus easily (6).
Reasons Why the Doctor May Not Be Able to Detect the Baby’s Heartbeat
The first rule is to not panic. There are many reasons why your doctor may not be able to detect your baby’s heartbeat. Here are some reasons why (4):
It’s too early to detect a heartbeat.
You may have a retroverted uterus, due to which the baby can be just a little further away and harder to detect.
You’re overweight, causing there to be extra padding between the ultrasound wand and the baby.
You may have experienced a miscarriage.
You may be having an ectopic pregnancy.
FAQs
1. Can you hear a heartbeat at 5, 6, 7, and 8 weeks?
At 5 weeks, it’s usually too early to hear a fetal heartbeat with a Doppler; the embryo is still very small. By 6 weeks, an ultrasound may sometimes detect the heartbeat, but it can be faint and difficult to pick up. At 7 to 8 weeks, most pregnancies show a clear heartbeat on a transvaginal ultrasound, making this the earliest reliable window for hearing your baby’s heart (2).
2. How soon can you hear a heartbeat of twins?
For twins, the timeline is similar to a singleton pregnancy. Each baby’s heartbeat can typically be detected by 6 to 8 weeks using an ultrasound. However, because there are two heartbeats, it may take a slightly longer scan to distinguish each one clearly, especially in the very early weeks.
3. Does the heartbeat indicate the baby’s health?
A steady, normal heartbeat is a good sign of a healthy pregnancy, but it’s only one part of monitoring. Doctors also consider growth, movement, and other tests.
It is important that you monitor your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy to rule out any anomalies. It can help in detecting an anaemic baby, abruption of the placenta, and poor oxygen supply. Go for timely scans to monitor your baby’s heartbeat and to keep track of his growth. Also, keep track of your baby’s kicks, and let your doctor know if you notice anything unusual.
Also Read:
Foetal Kick Counts
Quickening in Pregnancy
Decreased Foetal Movement
When Do Pregnant Women Feel Fetal Movements
Read more
Foetal Growth Chart Week by Week – Length & Weight
The foetus grows right from the earliest days of pregnancy. Ultrasound scans are done at regular intervals during pregnancy and help determine the approximate weight and length of the baby. The growth of the foetus in the womb leads to an increase in the size of the bump too. Every parent-to-be is excited about foetal growth and, therefore, must be aware of the fetal growth chart, that help to know the baby’s weight in a particular week. In this article, we have covered this information along with other things that you must be aware of as a parent. Let’s read!
How Babies Are Measured in the Womb?
When you get an ultrasound scan during pregnancy, the height and the weight of the baby are measured every single time. They are measured from head to bottom from eight weeks to 19 weeks of pregnancy. The average Indian baby weighs anywhere between 2.5 kg – 2.9 kg when born at full term.
Video: Foetal Growth Chart Week by Week – Length & Weight
Foetal Weight Chart
The fetal weight growth chart below shows the average increase in the weight of the foetus on a week-by-week basis. The numbers are only averages, and the actual weight and length of the foetus may vary significantly. These are general guidelines, and your baby’s weight may not be an exact match to what you see in the table. However, this should not be a cause for worry. Let’s look at this fetal growth chart by week.
Pregnancy Week
Average Weight
8 weeks
1g
9 weeks
2g
10 weeks
4g
11 weeks
7g
12 weeks
14g
13 weeks
23g
14 weeks
43g
15 weeks
70g
16 weeks
100g
17 weeks
140g
18 weeks
190g
19 weeks
240g
20 weeks
300g
21 weeks
360g
22 weeks
430g
23 weeks
501g
24 weeks
600g
25 weeks
660g
26 weeks
760g
27 weeks
875g
28 weeks
1kg
29 weeks
1.2kg
30 weeks
1.3kg
31 weeks
1.5kg
32 weeks
1.7kg
33 weeks
1.9kg
34 weeks
2.1kg
35 weeks
2.4kg
36 weeks
2.6kg
37 weeks
2.9kg
38 weeks
3.1kg
39 weeks
3.3kg
40 weeks
3.5kg
Foetal Length Chart
Along with the weight, the doctor keeps a record of the foetal length as well when maintaining a pregnancy growth chart. This chart is a rough guide of the foetal length on a week by week basis. The length of the foetus is measured from the crown till the bottom, because of the position he’ll be in, i.e., legs curled up against the torso, which makes it difficult to measure his length from head to toe. From the 20th week onwards, the length of the foetus will be calculated from the crown to the heel.
Pregnancy Week
Average Length
8 weeks
1.6cm
9 weeks
2.3cm
10 weeks
3.1cm
11 weeks
4.1cm
12 weeks
5.4cm
13 weeks
7.4cm
14 weeks
8.7cm
15 weeks
10.1cm
16 weeks
11.6cm
17 weeks
13cm
18 weeks
14.2cm
19 weeks
15.3cm
20 weeks
25.6cm
21 weeks
26.7cm
22 weeks
27.8cm
23 weeks
28.9cm
24 weeks
30cm
25 weeks
34.6cm
26 weeks
35.6cm
27 weeks
36.6cm
28 weeks
37.6cm
29 weeks
38.6cm
30 weeks
39.9cm
31 weeks
41.1cm
32 weeks
42.4cm
33 weeks
43.7cm
34 weeks
45cm
35 weeks
46.2cm
36 weeks
47.4cm
37 weeks
48.6cm
38 weeks
49.8cm
39 weeks
50.7cm
40 weeks
51.2cm
Ultrasonic Foetal Measurement Standards
The gestational age chart is used to determine the biometric measurements and determine if the foetal growth is normal. If the mother-to-be is able to provide the date of the last menses before conception, it gives a much better estimate of EDD, which is the estimated date of confinement (also known as Expected Date of Delivery). The EDD can be estimated to plus or minus 5 days.
The method of using ultrasound scans to estimate the gestational age is done under the assumption that the baby is growing normally and as per the foetus weight chart. If any condition alters the growth of the foetus, it will also make the estimate less reliable. The ultrasound method lets one measure the number of foetal and embryonic structures, but only a few of them are reliable and easy to carry out repeatedly. The ultrasound foetal measurements are done using various foetal graphs and calculators.
Estimated Foetal Weight Calculator
The foetal weight calculator lets you calculate the percentile of the foetal weight as well as the estimated foetal weight at the time of delivery. The inputs that you need to enter are the gestational age, biparietal diameter, humerus, head circumference, femur length, and the abdominal circumference. The calculator then calculates the percentile for each factor, as well as the estimated foetal weight at the time of delivery.
Suppose the foetus is in the 60th percentile for weight, at 30 weeks. This means that 60% of foetuses weigh the same or less than the baby at 30 weeks. This means that 40% of foetuses weigh more than the baby at 30 weeks.
It is a common practice to opt for an ultrasound scan to estimate the weight of the foetus towards the end of pregnancy. The accuracy rate of this method is very low and the calculated weight may lead to changes in the way the mother and the physician may perceive the delivery. Therefore, the method has been questioned in medical circles, and is not recommended until there is a medical condition.
The foetal weight calculator calculates the foetal weight as well as the estimated foetal weight at the time of delivery as per ultrasound data using many formulas like Warsof, Shepard, Hadlock, Campbell, and so on.
The calculation is carried out using the four basic parameters which are: head circumference (HC), biparietal diameter (BPD), abdominal circumference (AC) and femur length (FL).
The calculated foetal weights may be 16% plus or minus the average weight. The actual weight can be either higher or lower than 16%.
Around 68% of babies will be within the range of 1 standard deviation (SD), and 2 SD should encompass around 95% of the actual weight. However, about 5% of the babies will be either higher or lower than 2.5%, thus making this an inaccurate calculator of foetal weight.
Foetal Growth Percentile Calculator
The growth percentile calculator calculates how big or small the baby is as compared to the average value. If the baby is in the 40th percentile for growth, this means that the baby is larger than 40% of babies who are of the same age, and smaller than 60% of babies of the same age. 50 is the average value and a value below 50 means that the baby’s growth is below the average value. A value above 50 means that the baby has an above-average growth rate.
A foetus that measures between the 10th and the 90th percentile is considered normal.
The different terms used in tracking or calculating the growth of the foetus in the womb are briefed upon below for better understanding:
1. Crown-Rump Length
The embryonic crown-rump length is a parameter that dates the embryo and estimates the foetus’ average length. It can be measured to an accuracy of plus or minus 3 to 5 days. The limbs and the yolk sac are excluded from this calculation. The crown-rump length can also be used to calculate the gestational age, wherein doctors can estimate your due date.
2. Biparietal Diameter and Head Circumference
The BPD or the Biparietal Diameter is the transverse width of the head at the widest part. The measurement is done from one leading edge to the other leading edge of the bone on the opposite side, as it is the most distinct. The scope for error in this measurement is not a lot as the oval shape of the head does not leave a lot of room for mistakes. This makes it easy to use the method over and over again. The size of the head is determined by the growth of the brain and does not take into account other aspects of the brain’s development.
3. Femur and Humerus Length
The femur length method is also reliable and can be repeated. Skeletal dysplasias tends to affect it but this condition is very rare. The measurement confirms the head’s measurement and the best value can be obtained after 14 weeks. To estimate the gestational age, at least 2 or sometimes even 4-5 measurements may be required.
4. Estimated Foetal Weight
There are different types of computer software and charts that help the doctor calculate the foetal weight, along with measurements such as the abdominal circumference, biparietal diameter, the femur length and so on.
5. Abdominal Circumference
This is a measurement taken in the second half of the pregnancy and is used to assess foetal growth. It is an approximate method and it is used to see if the growth proportions of the foetus are normal. It is measured at the level of the liver and the stomach along with the left portal vein at the umbilical region.
6. Gestational Sac
This is measured in early pregnancy and is measured in three dimensions. The ‘Mean Sac Diameter’ is the average that is used to estimate the gestational age. The method can be applied between the 5th and the 8th week of pregnancy and has an accuracy of plus or minus 3 days.
The gestational sac surrounds the embryo and can be seen in the early ultrasound scans. The sac encloses the embryo as well as the amniotic fluid. It allows the doctor to measure the number of weeks of pregnancy (with a margin of plus or minus 5 days).
7. Yolk Sac
This is a membranous sac and is attached to the embryo. The sac can be spotted between the embryo and the gestational sac. It offers nourishment to the embryo before the circulatory system and the placenta develops to give the foetus the required nourishment.
8. Foetal Pole
This is a mass of cells and can be seen before the embryo becomes visible. The rate of growth is approximately 1 mm a day and starts at the 6th week of the gestational age. It is used to date an early pregnancy and also, to estimate the gestational week.
The gestational age is calculated in most cases by using BPD, femur length, head circumference, and abdominal circumference. It may not be very important to see how they are combined. The modern ultrasound machines have a computer biometric analysis program that calculates the estimated due date.
The doctor may conduct a multiparameter assessment of the gestational age after the first trimester of pregnancy. The basic ones are the biparietal diameter and the femur length. The other parameters such as occipitofrontal diameter, head circumference or humerus length are also considered.
The early measurement to calculate gestational age is usually taken as a definite assessment. There is a reduced accuracy after 20 weeks. The doctor would evaluate further if the ultrasound foetal measurement standard parameters are not in agreement at any time. This is done to average all the values to get an estimated gestational age.
Please note that these are the international standards of weight and length using guidelines from the UK. The average weight and length of an Indian baby may differ from the international standards.
How Many Times Can the Baby Be Measured in Pregnancy?
A parent-to-be might wonder about how many times their baby can be measured during pregnancy. Here are some points that will help you understand the same:
In pregnancy, your baby’s growth will be monitored at first between six to nine weeks of pregnancy.
Between the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy, a nuchal translucency scan is performed.
Between 18 and 20 weeks, an anomaly scan is performed.
The doctor will measure many regions of the baby’s anatomy during this scan, including his head circumference, abdominal circumference, and thigh bone length.
Between 28 and 32 weeks, you’ll get a growth scan or foetal wellness scan.
FAQs
1. What Does It Mean If the Baby Is Not of Expected Size at the Stage of Delivery?
Intrauterine growth restriction is when a baby in the womb does not grow as expected or is not as big as expected for the pregnancy stage. This timing is called an unborn baby’s “gestational age.”
2. Does The Foetal Size Get Double Every Week of Pregnancy?
You will be surprised to know that babies grow tremendously in the later stages of gestation. They almost get double in size between 28 weeks and the time they’re born.
3. Is It Possible That My Baby Be Bigger or Smaller Than the Average?
Every baby is different, and factors like the size of the parents also contribute to the size of the baby. So, your baby can be bigger or smaller than the average baby.
4. Can Fetal Weight Predict the Gender of Baby?
No, the foetal weight cannot predict the gender of the baby.
The foetal growth chart is an important indicator of the progress of the pregnancy and the growth of the baby. Any anomaly detected during the regular measurements is addressed by the doctor to see if intervention is necessary. It is advisable to go for all the mandatory checkups and scans during pregnancy to ensure that the charts are tracked correctly.
References/Resources:
1. An Alcohol-free pregnAncy is the best choice for your bAby.; cdc.gov; https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/documents/fasdbrochure_final.pdf
2. Fetal development: The 3rd trimester; mayoclinic.org; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20045997
3. Baby Development Month By Month; americanpregnancy.org/; https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/baby-development-month-by-month/
4. Fetal Growth Calculator; srhr.org/; https://srhr.org/fetalgrowthcalculator/#/
5. Fetal Development; clevelandclinic.org; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
Also Read:
How to Increase Fetal Weight in Pregnancy?
Baby Growth during Pregnancy in Each Trimester
Baby Size — Week by Week Comparison with Fruits and Veggies
Read more
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