What week does the third trimester of pregnancy start from? Third trimester of pregnancy by week: how the child develops What time does the 3rd trimester of pregnancy begin

The third trimester of pregnancy is the final stage of bearing a child. Behind the most dangerous and disturbing first weeks, a period of relative rest - the second trimester, and ahead - the most important and exciting event: the birth of a long-awaited baby. What week does the 3rd trimester of pregnancy start? What happens to mother and child? What features of this period you need to know? How to understand that childbirth is about to begin?

When does the 3rd trimester of pregnancy start and end?

The final, third trimester begins at the 27th obstetric week. It is 14–16 weeks and ends on the 40–42nd. However, already at the end of the 37th week, the fetus is considered full-term and viable, and many (especially multiparous) women give birth at 38–39 weeks.

Nevertheless, you should not try to speed up the development of events using various folk methods of stimulating labor. The longer the baby stays in the mother's womb (but not more than 42 obstetric weeks), the better he will be able to adapt to new conditions.

Features of the last trimester

In the third trimester, the baby is rapidly gaining weight. Because of this, the weight and volume of the woman's abdomen increases. The main inconvenience experienced by the expectant mother is associated precisely with an increase in the volume of the abdomen. To make you feel better, you can start wearing a prenatal bandage.

The third trimester completes the bearing of a child. It ends with delivery and the birth of the baby. A woman has very little time left to prepare for childbirth and the appearance of a newborn in the house.

28-32 weeks - the critical period of the third trimester

At the beginning of the third trimester, the last critical period of pregnancy passes. If in the early stages and in the second trimester at certain periods there was a high probability of pregnancy fading or spontaneous abortion, then at 28–32 weeks there is a threat of premature birth (see also:). They can start under the influence of the following factors:

placental insufficiency;
placental abruption;
severe gestosis, preeclampsia, eclampsia;
isthmic-cervical insufficiency;
hormonal imbalance;
excessive stretching of the uterus due to polyhydramnios or multiple pregnancy.

A newborn born during this period weighs only 1–1.8 kg, but all the vital organs and systems are formed in him, and with proper care and medical care, most babies survive. However, the efforts of obstetricians will be aimed at prolonging the pregnancy for as long as possible, thereby increasing the chances of the child to survive and remain healthy.

What happens to the fetus?

At the beginning of the trimester, the fetus weighs about 1 kg, its height is about 35 cm. At 27–30 weeks. the baby is developing intensively, especially the brain and lungs. His muscles grow rapidly, he actively moves, alternating periods of wakefulness with sleep. An attentive mother knows the baby’s “daily routine” well: what time he prefers to sleep and how much. In the antenatal clinic, the pregnant woman is asked to monitor the movements of the fetus and mark them in a special table “Count to ten”.

The skin of the fetus, covered with fluff - lanugo, gradually begins to get rid of it. Only soft hairs still remain on the shoulders. On the scalp, on the contrary, the formation of hairline begins.

From the 29th week babies are gaining weight. The fetus is mostly formed, with the exception of the lungs - they continue to mature until the middle of the third trimester of pregnancy. In the lungs, the production of surfactant begins - a substance that covers the inside of the lung alveoli. Thanks to him, after birth, the child will be able to breathe - to absorb and transfer incoming oxygen to the tissues, while the walls of the alveoli will not stick together.

At this time, the fetus still does not have enough subcutaneous fat to keep warm, therefore, in the event of a premature birth, the newborn will be placed in an incubator with optimal conditions for him. However, by the 36th week, the situation will change: the baby will acquire characteristic rounded shapes, and its skin will smooth out.

At 37 weeks, the fetus looks like any newborn baby (see also:). Lanugo has practically disappeared from the skin, the thickness of the layer of original lubricant, which protects the skin of the fetus from the effects of amniotic fluid, is decreasing. However, it does not disappear completely; normally, a small amount of it persists until childbirth and helps the fetus move along the birth canal.

Most babies are born between 38 and 40 weeks. By this time, they gain an average of 3–3.5 kg and grow to approximately 48–56 cm. The mobility of the bones of the skull is preserved - this is necessary for passage through the birth canal. An extended pregnancy is fraught with ossification of the sutures between the bones of the skull. In this case, the baby will not be able to be born on her own, the woman will need a caesarean section.

When is it performed and what determines the ultrasound?

For a period of 30-34 weeks. the third planned ultrasound examination is being carried out. During the ultrasound revealed:

the degree of fetal development and compliance with the gestational age;
the presence or absence of oxygen starvation;
estimated weight and height of the fetus;
the location of the baby (longitudinal, oblique, transverse) and its presentation (pelvic, head);
the presence of cord entanglement, multiplicity (single, double, triple);
the degree of maturity of the placenta;
condition and volume of amniotic fluid.

Usually, ultrasound is performed simultaneously with a Doppler study. It is aimed at assessing the state of fetal blood flow.

If there are problems with the position of the fetus in the uterus or the condition of the placenta, ultrasound in the 3rd trimester is performed again - at the very end of pregnancy, immediately before childbirth. Based on the results of the last study, a decision is made on the method of delivery.

What tests and examinations are carried out, except for ultrasound?

At the very beginning of the 3rd trimester, the blood of a future mother with the first group or negative Rh is examined for the presence of antibodies in it. This is done to prevent hemolytic disease in the newborn. If such a threat is detected, the woman will be injected with anti-Rhesus immunoglobulin, and then they will do the same within three days after delivery (if there is a Rh conflict).

Starting from the 30th week of pregnancy, every week before a visit to the doctor, a woman should give urine for a general analysis (OAM). Do not neglect this. Evaluation of the results of OAM will help to identify problems in the work of the kidneys in time and prevent the development of preeclampsia - severe late toxicosis of pregnant women, which can lead to the death of the child and the serious condition of the mother.

At the 30th week, blood tests for HIV / AIDS and syphilis, glucose levels, coagulation, biochemical and general analysis are also performed. Colposcopy is performed, smears are taken:

from the vagina to the microflora;
from the cervix for cytology;
from the nasal cavity for the presence of staphylococcus aureus.

At this time, the pregnant woman regularly visits a therapist and an ophthalmologist. The results of all analyzes and consultations are recorded in the exchange card. On the same week, a woman is issued a birth certificate and prenatal leave, if it has not been issued earlier for medical reasons.

Starting from the 33rd week, a cardiotocographic study is performed every 14 days, which consists in simultaneously fixing the fetal heart rate and uterine tone (see also:). During CTG, a non-stress test is performed to assess the change in heart rate during his movements. During the procedure, a woman presses a special button at the beginning and end of the baby's movements. If the heartbeat increases during movement, this indicates the normal well-being of the fetus.

At 38–40 weeks, another blood test for syphilis is done. A woman is examined weekly for the readiness of the cervix for childbirth. If labor does not begin at 40–42 weeks, an additional ultrasound is performed.

How does the woman feel?

In the third trimester, a woman's fatigue increases. It is more difficult for her to walk, it is difficult to breathe, because the baby is growing rapidly, adding 300–350 g per week, pressing on the pelvic bones and diaphragm. A woman should not sleep on her back, so as not to pinch the vena cava - this can lead to fainting and acute hypoxia in the fetus.

Toward the end of pregnancy, many women experience increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and protein appears in the urine. This is also caused by an increase in the mass and size of the baby and an increase in pressure on the internal organs, in particular the kidneys.

By the 36th week, the expectant mother may experience heartburn: the growing fetus “props up” the stomach, and it does not hold the digestive juice, throwing it into the esophagus. During this period, the highest standing height of the fundus of the uterus is noted.

However, already next week, the condition of the pregnant woman in most cases changes. Her body begins to actively prepare for the upcoming birth.

Signs of approaching childbirth

14-20 days before childbirth (for multiparous - 10-14), pregnant women begin to show signs of an early onset of labor - precursors. These include:

Dropping of the abdomen. The fetus normally assumes a longitudinal position with head presentation, the head is pressed tightly against the entrance to the small pelvis. The woman feels that it has become easier to breathe, heartburn and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach pass. However, there is an increase in the urge to empty the bladder, since the descending uterus is now pressing on it, pulling pains in the perineum, lower back and lower abdomen.
Departure of the mucous plug (more in the article:). Not all women notice that thick mucus is secreted from their vagina, sometimes with bloody streaks. This leaves the cervical secret, which protected the uterus during pregnancy from infection. The descended fetus presses on the lower segment of the uterus, contributing to the tension of the walls of the cervical canal, and the plug of mucus ceases to be held in the cervix.
Training bouts (more in the article:). As a rule, painless, short and irregular contractions of the uterus occur in the evening or at night, when prostaglandins are actively produced - substances that cause an increase in the tone of the myometrium. Such contractions do not lead to the opening of the cervix, but only prepare the organ.

Changes in the hormonal background affect the behavior of a woman. She focuses on internal sensations, reacts less to what is happening around her. Many people start cleaning or rush their spouse to complete repairs in the nursery, buy things for the baby and newborn care items. This is how the “nesting instinct” manifests itself - another harbinger of childbirth.

The early onset of labor is indicated by the outflow of amniotic fluid and regular contractions with an increase in their duration and a reduction in the interval between them. Starting from the 38th week, a woman should be ready for childbirth. It is necessary to collect all the things and documents necessary for her and the baby, so as not to fuss and at the right time to quickly pack up and go to the hospital.

Now all the organs of the child are formed, he continues to grow and gain weight. The third trimester of pregnancy is a very important time not only for the baby, but also for the mother. It is necessary to monitor all the manifestations of your body, because now there is a high risk of premature birth.

What week does the 3rd trimester start?

The child is actively developing and preparing for a meeting with parents. His movements are gaining strength and become more noticeable - there is little space left in the uterus, it is cramped there. Sometimes mom can even experience pain during his tremors.

The third trimester of pregnancy starts at 26 weeks

This period starts from the 7th month or from the 26th week. A woman needs to take care of herself, not to overwork, her emotional state is reflected in the child. Useful frequent walks in the fresh air, which can be combined with breathing exercises. To reduce the load on the veins, it is recommended to lie with your legs elevated on the pillow. You should sleep in only one position - on your left side.

Mom needs to monitor nutrition, normal weight gain at this time is no more than 300 g per week. Food should contain a large amount of protein - meat, fish and dairy products. Don't forget fresh vegetables and fruits. But it is better to refuse sweets and flour, they will not bring benefits, and excess weight can

In the later stages, the uterus begins to prepare for the upcoming birth, training contractions help her in this. Remember which week it started for you, and tell the gynecologist about it at your next visit. Her size is now so large that she is squeezing the bladder - Mom often has to run to the toilet because of this.

Allocations

Their presence is considered normal if they are light in color, white or transparent, and do not have an unpleasant odor. If their color changes to yellow or green, you need to urgently go to the doctor - this may indicate an infection that needs to be treated, otherwise there is a risk of infection of the fetus. Treatment can only be prescribed by a specialist after determining the type of infection - for this, a smear is taken from a woman for analysis.

If the consistency has changed, they have become curdled or foamy - this is also a reason to go to the doctor. Another symptom that should alert you is the sour smell of discharge.

A dangerous sign is the appearance of blood in the discharge. This may indicate low placentation, especially if it occurs after physical activity or sex. It also indicates premature detachment of the placenta. In any case, with bleeding, the appearance of clots or blood inclusions in the discharge, you should urgently go to the doctor or call an ambulance.

The only norm for the appearance of blood in the secretions is the exit of the mucous plug. This happens a few days before delivery. If a woman sees thick mucus with blood streaks or colored pink, you can go to the hospital.

Planned ultrasound in the third trimester - how many weeks?

This obligatory procedure helps doctors prepare for childbirth - the fetal presentation, uterine tone, and the amount of amniotic fluid are checked. For special indications, an emergency delivery may be prescribed to save the child.

Every woman during the period of bearing a child should be aware of the ongoing changes in the organisms of both. In order to avoid negative consequences, it is important to know which symptoms are the norm for pregnancy, and which should be treated with caution.

What week does the 3rd trimester of pregnancy begin and how long does it last

The waiting time for a child cannot be an unpleasant event, especially if the pregnancy is long-awaited and planned. Every week something new happens to the growing embryo, it develops and gains weight. Every trimester also affects the mother's body.

The last trimester (third) starts from the 7th month of pregnancy or from the 27th week and lasts until delivery. This is the period when a woman has already suffered toxicosis, managed to feel the movements of the fetus and realize all her future responsibility. Next, you will find out what else happens to the child and the expectant mother at this stage.

Beginning of trimester (weeks 27-28)

At week 27, the weight of the fetus is approximately 1 kilogram. At this time, premature birth no longer poses a strong danger, thanks to special devices, a premature baby can exist independently.

Child

In his body, all the organs have managed to fully form, the remaining time, their work will prepare for independent functioning. The baby can perform training movements with the lungs.

By conducting an ultrasound, it is possible to see the facial features of the embryo, some have hair on their heads.

Fetal movements may consist of clenching hands, sucking fingers or toes. The skin is still quite thin and blood vessels are visible through it, but since that time it has already begun to gain fat to maintain the thermal regime in the body. The baby opens his eyes with eyelashes already appearing on them and gives a reaction to a bright light.

Mother

A woman feels discomfort in the uterus, due to its constant increase. It is becoming more and more difficult to find a comfortable position, it is highly not recommended to stay on your back for a long time and cross your legs, since a bulky uterus can compress the vein supplying blood to the heart.

There is heartburn and shortness of breath, frequent urge to urinate, bloating and constipation are not excluded. By the beginning of the 3rd trimester of pregnancy for a woman, the rate of weight gain is 7-8 kg.

It is not uncommon that toxicosis occurs in the later stages. Dizziness and lack of air in the premises is the norm, if not permanent. It is recommended to spend more time walking.

If fetal movements are felt very rarely or do not occur at all, this is a serious reason to consult a doctor, the following symptoms are unnatural for the normal course of pregnancy:

watery discharge or those that contain blood;
the occurrence of pulling or sharp pains in the uterus.

What should be the diet of a woman

In a difficult period for the body, weight gain occurs rapidly, which will not positively affect the course of pregnancy. In the diet of a woman in position should be included in the smallest amount, and it is better to completely exclude:

smoked, fried and spicy food;
raw eggs (dishes containing them should also be limited);
seafood without heat treatment;
poorly fried meat;
alcohol.

confectionery and flour products;
chocolate products;
potato;

Will benefit the baby and expectant mother:

vegetables;
whole grain cereals;
fruit;
Brown rice;
corn;
coarse bread.

Mid trimester (34th-35th week)

By the 35th week of a woman's pregnancy, the weight of a child is about 2.5 km, and its length is about 50 cm. The respiratory system is completely ready and in case of premature birth, the baby will no longer need devices.

Fetus

The kid in this period has already accumulated subcutaneous fatty retina, clear lines have formed on his face. The heart of the fetus beats in a rapid rhythm, with the help of a special device it is possible to fix more than 120 beats per minute.

The middle of the last trimester strengthens bone tissue, and the nervous system completes the stages of its formation.

The child clearly hears sounds that are unpleasant for his hearing and can be commented on by sharp shocks. The formation of the genital organs of the boy is almost complete. The appearance of the fetus is fully formed, at birth it will be exactly the same, taking into account the fact that before the end of the term it will gain a few kilograms.

The body of a pregnant woman

During this period, a woman may be disturbed by "false" contractions, which are important not to be confused with real ones, the harbingers are different:

short duration;
painlessness.

The movements of the fetus in the trimester become less active, due to the lack of space for the movements of the child, but their number should not decrease. The body is still worried about swelling. Since the stomach has dropped, the higher organs are relieved, there are frequent urges to the toilet and urinary incontinence, which are considered the norm.

Few people manage to avoid back pain at this time, sometimes the sensations are transmitted to the stomach, this is due to the increased size of the uterus. If the discomfort is prolonged, you should make an unscheduled visit to the gynecologist.

It should be noted that premature birth at 35 weeks is not uncommon, they no longer provide danger, and you can understand the likelihood that they can occur by the following symptoms:

Slow discharge of amniotic fluid. Usually the fluid comes out immediately in large quantities, just a few hours before the baby is born. Discharges with a lack of color and smell can be distinguished by their characteristic features. This case requires the immediate call of an ambulance.
Incessant pain. If there is persistent pain in the abdomen, for several hours, most likely, an early birth is coming.

diet

Due to the formation of the skeletal system of the fetus, pregnant women should take foods with calcium, but it is important not to allow an excess of the mineral, otherwise the hard bones of the baby will be reflected in a more difficult process of childbirth.

cottage cheese and dairy products;
vegetables;
fruit;
beef;
fish.

End of trimester (38-40 weeks)

A few days remain before the birth of a new person, he also feels it, so his heart rate increases to 150 beats per minute. The weight of the fetus can be from 3 kg and above.

Child's condition

The formation of the genital organs has passed into the final stage. The skeletal system continues to form, but if childbirth occurs, this will not be reflected in it. The baby is ready to be born!

feeling pregnant

In the last stages, pregnant women feel exhausted, it is difficult for them to walk, it is uncomfortable to sleep, they suffer from swelling, pain in the back, and calves. Women do not want to do anything, rest is the best pastime for them. Only 5% of women in labor carry the fetus to 40 weeks, most often these are those who give birth to a boy for the first time.

About food

Surely many have heard about the addictions of pregnant women to chalk. This happens from a lack of calcium, in this case it is useful, you can also eat eggshells and other calcium-containing foods.

The most difficult thing is already behind, a pregnant woman needs to be ready to call an ambulance and the upcoming birth any day. The contractions that have appeared in recent weeks cannot be confused with anything, so everything necessary for the maternity hospital should already be collected.

From the following movie, you can learn a lot of interesting things about the third trimester of pregnancy.

It is important to know, especially when you consider that this period in itself is very important for the expectant mother. The third trimester is the final line, which brings a lot of surprises, troubles, and sometimes problems. The baby is about to arrive! There is very little left.

What did he prepare for the future mother? What should she prepare for? You can find out more about all this below. After all, this is a very important process, especially at its very end and beginning.

Uncertainty

In general, whoever has ever encountered an "interesting situation" is aware of some perplexities of future young mothers who have just registered and are trying to determine what week they are in. The thing is that there are two options for the development of events. What exactly?

Interested in what week of pregnancy the third trimester begins? Then keep in mind: your data and doctor's testimony will be different. Approximately 2 weeks. After all, there is a so-called obstetric period and embryonic. They influence the readings. Which means they won't match. It can be difficult to answer from which week of pregnancy the 3rd trimester begins. But probably.

Obstetric

Most often, in order not to confuse and scare a woman, it is customary to take into account both options. The first step is to pay attention to the obstetric period. It is extremely important for setting the EDD (approximate date when you will give birth). Of course, it will take place in the third trimester.

The obstetric indicator depends on your menstruation. It is counted from the beginning of the last critical days. If you believe this indicator, then you can answer the question of which week the third trimester of pregnancy starts from, on your own, without the testimony and conclusions of a doctor. What will be the answer? The third trimester is, as you might guess, 27 weeks. It is from this period that you enter the finish line with such a long and important process.

Embryonic

But not everything is as simple as it seems at first glance. It has already been said - there are two options. In the first case, obstetric, you can do without the help of doctors and determine everything yourself. But in the second, embryonic, only an examination by a gynecologist, as well as an ultrasound report, will give you the result. And accurate.

So, for example, be prepared for the discrepancy between the obstetric and embryonic gestational age. This is normal, it never happens that they coincide. In practice, the second indicator exceeds the first by about 2 weeks. After all, as a rule, conception occurs on the day of ovulation (from here the countdown of embryo development begins). It happens closer to the middle of the cycle, on average after 14 days.

From what week of pregnancy does the 3rd trimester begin in this case? Only your doctor will answer you, who observes the difference between obstetric and But if we take the generally accepted indicators of 2 weeks, then at 25 (relative to the first day of the last menstruation) the final stage of your baby's development already begins. But the immediate beginning of the 3rd trimester for the mother remains the same - from the 27th week.

Attention, childbirth

So we decided on when the pregnancy can be called almost complete. Only now it is worth understanding the features of this period of time. There are a lot of them, much more than at the very beginning of the path of bearing the fetus.

What week does the third trimester of pregnancy start from? As it already turned out: with an obstetric period - from 27 weeks from the day of the last menstruation, and with an embryonic - from about 25. There is nothing difficult about this. Orientation will be more on the first indicator, it is on him that both women and doctors look up.

The thing is that already at the beginning of the third trimester you may start giving birth! Approximately on This phenomenon is called a spontaneous miscarriage or a similar birth process, premature. If the child develops normally, nothing bothers you, you should not panic much. The baby will be born in a natural way, just up to a certain point he will stay in intensive care, connected to special devices that will help the newborn, who has not yet fully formed, come out. Pretty rare, but it happens. Your doctor will usually warn you about the risk of preterm labor.

Race

We have already found out from what week the third trimester of pregnancy begins. Moreover, already at the beginning of this period, one can encounter such a phenomenon as childbirth. But, as already noted, this does not happen so often. Therefore, it is worth considering a typical situation in which the expectant mother is equal to the DA.

The third trimester of pregnancy becomes a huge headache for women. Why? Already from 27-28 weeks and up to 30 inclusive (and this is about a month), you will be driven to the doctors. More examinations and tests! One donated urine is not enough.

The third trimester is remembered for many by running around the doctors. First, you need to donate blood for many hormones. Not too critical, but sometimes unpleasant. Secondly, gynecological smears according to indications. Thirdly, the passage of narrow specialists. This moment is able to unsettle even the calmest pregnant woman. Very often, it is narrow specialists (for example, a therapist) who begin to raise unnecessary panic around a woman in position, prescribe many additional tests and studies, which is why the future woman in labor is not able to sign an exchange card in the maternity hospital and conclude an agreement. But it is inevitable, you have to be patient. When the tests are passed, and the doctors are passed, you will finally be given recommendations for delivery.

By month

We have already found out from what week of pregnancy the third trimester begins. Or from 27, or from 25. It all depends on what period you had in mind - obstetric or embryonic. But now there is one more question that worries some people quite seriously: "And how many months are these?"

It is not difficult to guess (and count too) that the third trimester begins at the 7th month of pregnancy. And it lasts for 9 inclusive. Therefore, many consider the periods of the "interesting situation" not in weeks, but in months. This is much easier than specifying obstetric and embryonic periods.

From now on, we know when the third trimester of pregnancy begins. Moreover, now it is clear what you can mentally set yourself up and prepare for, especially if you are not too fond of taking tests and visiting doctors.

The final stage

What else can be said about the features that await the expectant mother in this period? For example, one should not forget that births that are normal for the development of the fetus, but not entirely suitable for the mother and doctors, are not excluded. Also premature, but resuscitation is no longer required.

The thing is that it is important to know how long the third trimester of pregnancy begins, because of the likelihood of childbirth during this period. The question is, when will they start? Quite premature and dangerous, equivalent to a miscarriage, occur at 28 weeks, but just premature babies are born at 36. This is normal.

Nevertheless, it is generally accepted by doctors that the body is completely ready for childbearing by the 38th obstetric week. And such births are normal. As practice shows, from 38 to 40 weeks they will definitely take place. Otherwise, you will have to wait for the expiration of the full embryonic period. It's not the most common occurrence, but it does happen. Now it’s clear from which week of pregnancy the third trimester begins. Get ready for this period! Start packing bags for the hospital!

In the third trimester, the child is actively growing, learning to swallow, suck, see, touch. He develops a brain, in his intrauterine life there are periods of sleep and wakefulness. The expectant mother at this time should gradually prepare for childbirth. In some cases, childbirth occurs as early as the third trimester. Children born prematurely are viable, but require long and persistent nursing.

Show all

When does the third trimester of pregnancy begin?

The beginning of the third trimester falls on the 26th week of pregnancy. At this time, the movements of the child intensify. But sometimes, distracted by daily activities, the mother may not pay attention to these shocks. Fetal movements must be counted throughout the day. The minimum number should be ten pushes per day. If there are fewer movements, or they are too active, this indicates that the baby is experiencing discomfort.

Some pregnant women at this time suffer from headaches, leg cramps, pain in the back and pelvic area. Fetal tremors can give pain under the ribs. This pain is relieved by lying on your side.

A pregnant woman can gain weight by the beginning of the third trimester from 5 kg to 8.6 kg.

At 24–26 weeks, an ultrasound examination is performed. The purpose of the ultrasound is to exclude malformations of the nervous system, to determine the quantity and quality of amniotic fluid. It is also necessary in order to examine the placenta, to find out the sex of the unborn baby.

The woman goes for a clinical blood test, where hemoglobin levels are examined, and a general urine test, which checks the functioning of the kidneys.

The pregnant woman will have to do an ECG (electrocardiogram), where they will listen to the baby's heartbeat.

The growth of the fetus at the 26th obstetric week reaches 31–32 cm, and its weight is 700–800 g.

Skills acquired by the child:

1. He sees and hears perfectly. A sharp sound or noise scares the baby. A pleasant sound for the child is the beat of the mother's heart.
2. Constantly breathes. Air does not enter the lungs, and the liquid is absorbed into the blood and does no harm.
3. The brain cells responsible for thinking are actively developing.
4. A wake-up-sleep cycle appears.

Features of fetal development in each week and recommendations for pregnant women

Each week of pregnancy is characterized by changes in the development of the fetus and requires the expectant mother to follow certain recommendations (diet, care).

27 week

The 27th week of pregnancy is characterized by the active development of the child and new sensations of the pregnant woman. The baby's immune and respiratory systems improve. Sometimes a pregnant woman feels the baby's hiccups.

Due to the high pressure of the uterus on the bladder, a woman may urinate when she laughs or sneezes.

At this time, you should consume those foods that will be included in the daily diet after the birth of the baby. In the third trimester, the taste of the child is formed. If the food remains the same, then after pregnancy you can notice how the newborn baby drinks breast milk with pleasure.

During this period, cholesterol levels rise. It is very important for the placenta, as it is a building material through which hormones are produced. Progesterone is produced from cholesterol. He is responsible for the development of the mammary glands, the safety of the child and the removal of tension in the uterus.

During this period, the weight gain of the pregnant woman ranges from 5.2 to 9.2 kg.

At week 27, you should undergo a second planned ultrasound and pass all the necessary tests.

The baby has already reached 32–33 cm in height, and its weight is from 800 to 900 g. How the child develops:

1. Muscles are actively developing, the skeleton is being strengthened.
2. Able to roll over from side to side, push, stretch. These actions can be seen on ultrasound.
3. Surfactant is formed in the lungs, which helps to breathe.
4. Meconium is formed in the intestines.
5. The child identifies some smells, sees light behind the walls of the abdomen.
6. The baby begins to feel pain.
7. The final stage of development of the cerebral cortex is underway.

28 week

The child at this time is already quite large. He becomes cramped inside, and his active movements begin to subside. The child is often in one position, but continues to push. At this time, the foundations of the psyche and the characteristics of the character of the unborn child are laid.

A woman during this period may develop stretch marks on her stomach, chest and hips. The skin needs to be given special attention, lubricated with a cream for stretch marks. At week 28, veins in the mammary glands may become visible, and drops of colostrum stand out from the chest.

At this time, a number of rules should be observed:

1. You need to eat a little, but often. The child will not like it if the stomach and intestines are full. All movements of the baby will be especially noticeable.
2. Do not eat heavily before bed. If this happens, then the baby will be very active, but he needs more sleep than a pregnant woman. You can eat two hours before bed.
3. Eliminate diets. The baby is also active, but due to a lack of nutrients and protein. Own nutrition should be agreed with the doctor. With malnutrition, a baby can be born with low weight, small organs.
4. Eat only fresh food. Foods prepared for one day can give the child useful substances without toxins.
5. While eating, you need positive emotions that contribute to the active absorption of nutrients. After childbirth, a good mood will affect the lactation and suckling activity of the baby.

At this time, it is necessary to pass a glucose tolerance test. With a negative Rh factor, you need to do an antibody test. Such a test shows the presence in the mother's blood of antibodies to the child's blood.

A pregnant woman at week 28 gains weight from 5.4 to 9.8 kg.

A child at week 28 has a height of 33–34 cm, and its weight is 900–1000 g. He already knows how to:

1. Distinguish between the taste and smell of substances that enter the mother's body. At this time, babies like the sweet taste more.
2. Blinking due to blurring of the eyelids.

29 week

The most important thing this week is to keep a close eye on your weight gain. It should not be more than 10-12 kg. If a woman has added more than the norm, then you need to understand why this is happening, if there are swelling.

Keeping track of secretions is another important task for the expectant mother. The discharge should have a milky or transparent color, without a strong odor, and their consistency should be uniform. If spotting appears, then you need to contact a gynecologist. This condition may be a symptom of placental abruption or premature delivery.

Some pregnant women may experience a feeling of heat this week due to an accelerated metabolism, which increases the workload on the heart. Some may experience a drop in blood pressure and an increased heart rate.

The child grew to 35–36 cm, and began to weigh 1100–1200 g. What happens to the fetus

1. Reacts to noise by blinking and flinching.
2. At this time, the baby has learned to distinguish between musical sounds, so you can start listening to good music.
3. Eyelashes appear.
4. With a stethoscope, you can listen to the baby's heartbeat.
5. The expectant mother feels the mood of the child: joy, frustration, calmness, excitement, hunger and satiety.

30 week

By 30 weeks, the stomach has grown well, and the usual gait has changed. The weight gain in a pregnant woman is from 5.9 to 10.2 kg. The main weight is the grown uterus, amniotic fluid, placenta.

Starting this week, the registration of maternity leave for working pregnant women begins.

By week 30, the baby has grown to 36-37 cm, and the weight has become 1200-1300 g. How the baby develops:

1. The child feels maternal caress. You should stroke your stomach and say nice words.
2. The nervous system and psyche develop.
3. The child likes it when mom walks, does gymnastics - he calms down.
4. The fat layer actively develops and the substances necessary for vital activity are stored: iron, calcium, protein, etc.

31 weeks

A pregnant woman at 31 weeks may experience a feeling of heartburn, although she had not previously suffered from it. There is heaviness in the lower abdomen. This happens due to the fact that the fetus presses on the diaphragm and stomach.

After 31 weeks, special monitoring is necessary for those who have uterine fibroids and scars after caesarean section.

You should continue to eat right, give up salty, fried, spicy foods, as they burden the kidneys.

At this time, venous expansion in the legs is possible. Do not avoid back pain. All this happens due to the fact that the back muscles are resting, preparing for delivery.

The weight gain of a pregnant woman should be from 6.1 to 10.6 kg.

At 31 weeks, the child takes the final correct position: upside down. Those pregnant women whose child has not yet rolled over can undergo a set of exercises that will help him take the correct position.

The skin of the child at this time turns pink, the capillaries through the covers are no longer visible. This week it grows to 38 cm, and its weight becomes 1400-1500 g. The child continues to develop

1. Preparation for life after birth takes place, internal organs and all systems are improved.
2. Muscle mass grows.
3. The body begins to round due to the increased adipose tissue under the skin.

32 week

By week 32, a pregnant woman gains weight: from 6.4 to 11.3 kg.

Throughout pregnancy, you should beware of viral diseases. In the last stages, it is especially necessary to monitor health. Penetrating into the body, viruses can harm the health of the child, accelerate the aging process of the placenta.

A child at 32 weeks hears how the mother's body works, distinguishes the mother's voice from any other. The child begins to become covered with hair, nails grow, wrinkles are smoothed out, plump cheeks appear. Almost all the organs of the baby are formed, the head and torso are proportional.

The growth of the baby at 32 weeks reaches 39–40 cm, and the weight is 1600–1700 g. What happens to the child's body:

1. The child continues to roll over to the correct position.
2. The brain is actively growing along with the head.

33 week

The abdomen continues to grow in size, the uterus rises higher and presses on the stomach. The burning sensation does not leave the woman. To this condition is added difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath.

Some pregnant women may find swelling in the ankle area. All this is directly related to the pressure of the uterus, which impedes the outflow of blood through the vessels, and the blood retains water in the legs. To avoid swelling, you should put a roller or pillow under your feet, drink at least three liters of water a day, and exclude salty, spicy foods from the diet. You should stand or sit less.

Normal weight gain up to 33 weeks: 6.8-11.9 kg.

During this period, a woman is given Dopplerography, which shows whether the fetus is sufficiently saturated with oxygen and nutrients, and CTG, which helps to exclude intrauterine hypoxia.

The height of the baby at 33 weeks is 41–42 cm, and the weight is 1700–1800 g.

By this time the child:

1. Took head presentation.
2. The accumulation of subcutaneous fat continues.
3. The lungs begin to secrete surfactant, which helps the seventh-month-old to breathe on his own.
4. The brain, the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum are actively developing.
5. Activity appears at a certain time (a day mode has appeared).

34 week

The mother's body is preparing for delivery. Many hormones are released into the bloodstream, contributing to the elasticity of the joints. This is necessary for the easy passage of the fetus through the birth canal. A pregnant woman has frequent urination due to the pressure of the uterus on the bladder. If a pregnant woman is concerned about swelling, then you need to consult a doctor to exclude the formation of preeclampsia. With severe edema of the pregnant woman, inpatient observation is necessary.

The norm in weight gain is 7.3–12.5 kg.

At 34 weeks, the child gained the necessary weight, the skin became paler, and the functioning of the kidneys improved.

The baby weighs already 1900–2000, and its height is 42–43 cm. What happens to the fetus

1. Frequent heartbeat in a child, the norm is 120–140 beats per minute.
2. The child has learned to distinguish between light and darkness.
3. The kid has mastered variable activity with his mother. When mom is sleeping, he kicks, rolls over, and if mom is awake, he calms down.
4. Metabolism is actively formed.
5. The adrenal glands in a child are the same as in an adult (after birth, a decrease occurs). They produce a steroid hormone (an androgen-like substance that stimulates lactation).
6. Actively growing bone tissue.

35 week

The breast of the pregnant woman has already increased enough in size and is ready for feeding. You should replace your usual bra with nursing underwear. The uterus grew to such an extent that it squeezed the woman's stomach and lungs. At the end of the 35th week, the stomach will drop, the breathing of the pregnant woman will be easier.

A pregnant woman gains weight from 7.6 to 13 kg by the 35th week.

From the 35th week, a second blood test is given: for AIDS, syphilis, biochemistry. At the appointment, the doctor will take a swab from the vagina to identify the microbial flora.

The pregnant woman will again have an ultrasound examination, where the state of the placenta, the weight and height of the fetus, its presentation and the quantity and quality of water will be assessed.

Because of the tightness inside the abdomen, the child moves more constrained. By the protrusions on the woman's stomach, she understands which part of the body the baby is showing.

The height of the child is already 43–44 cm, and the weight is 2100–2300 g. How does the fetus change?

1. Nails have practically formed on the phalanges of the fingers.
2. The accumulation of subcutaneous fat, which is responsible for thermoregulation after birth, continues.
3. Muscles get stronger.
4. A child is able to add 30 grams per day. From this, he becomes more plump.
5. In boys, the testicles descend into the scrotum.

36 week

If earlier the pregnant woman visited the gynecologist every month, then from the 36th week until the birth it is recommended to go to the doctor every one to two weeks.

At this time, the pregnant woman's body is preparing for childbirth. You should not be nervous and anxious, you need to relax, read books, meditate.

The weight of the pregnant woman increased this week to 7.9-13.6 kg.

At 36 weeks, the baby has a height of 44 to 45 cm, and its weight is 2400-2500 g. What the child can do:

1. Started to breathe through the nose. Until that time, breathing was carried out through the mouth.
2. Learned to distinguish shades of taste.
3. I began to memorize what I heard: poems, music that sound not the first time.

37 week

The uterus has already reached the peak of growth, its weight is one kilogram, and its volume is about 5 liters. The uterus presses on the bladder even more, there is a shooting pain in the legs and perineum, pain in the back and hardening of the abdomen. Some women show the first signs of imminent delivery:

1. Departure of the mucous plug. It is a yellowish, streaked discharge from the vagina.
2. Lowering of the abdomen.
3. Loose stools.

At week 37, it is necessary to control the movements of the baby, they should be at least 10 times a day. It is worth remembering that due to tightness in the abdomen, the child moves less.

Mom gained weight by 37 weeks from 8.2 to 14 kg.

During this period, the baby is ready to be born, but the body is still continuing its development.

His height this week is 46–47 cm, and his weight is from 2700 to 2800 g.

How does the baby change?

1. There is a ripening of the lungs due to the production of cortisone.
2. Meconium has accumulated in the child's intestines. It will come out after birth on the first day.
3. The baby's skin has become lighter.
4. The fluff that covered the body disappeared.
5. The development of the central nervous, endocrine and immune systems continues.
6. The heart works well and blood circulates.
7. The baby improves breathing movements.
8. Hair appears on the head.

38 week

At this time, childbirth is approaching and training contractions may occur. They can be easily calmed down by taking a warm shower, changing positions. Real contractions are more painful and there is nothing to calm them down.

A pregnant woman gains weight by this time: from 8.6 to 14.5 kg.

At 38 weeks, the baby's height is about 47 cm, and the weight is up to 3 kg. The baby is already starting to prepare for birth:

1. The lungs are completely ready for independent work.
2. Begins to descend into the pelvic area.
3. The baby has learned to relax due to the mother's ability to quickly calm down at any time in any place.

39 week

This week, any physical activity is contraindicated, as this causes childbirth.

At this time, the pregnant woman loses up to two kilograms in weight. This happens due to the removal of excess fluid from the body.

On average, a woman gains weight by 39 weeks from 10 to 15 kg.

The baby continues to gain weight. The 1.3 cm thick umbilical cord may tie or wrap around the baby's neck, but do not worry about this.

Sometimes antibodies enter the baby's blood through the placenta at this time, which allows him to start the body's immune process.

The child has grown to 48-49 cm, and already weighs 3200 g.

How does the fetus develop?

1. The head descends to the entrance to the small pelvis.
2. The accumulation of subcutaneous fat ends.
3. The lungs are fully prepared for independent breathing.

40 week

This week is the final one, the woman's body is ready for childbirth. The cervix has become softer, the canal opens and the mucous plug leaves.

A woman's weight gain in recent weeks is 9.1–15.2 kg.

This week, the baby’s minimal activity is noticed, but movements, as in the past weeks, should be 10 times a day.

At week 40, the weight of the child is from 3000 to 3500 g, and its height is 50–55 cm. The child is completely ready for birth. He pushes, and by the protruding places on his stomach, you can determine his part of the body. The baby is cramped inside, it requires more oxygen and nutrients, which means that childbirth is approaching.

41 weeks

A woman may experience nervousness associated with changes in the hormonal background and the upcoming birth.

Before the onset of the birth process, amniotic fluid may break. They can leak, squirt out, or completely pour out. When water is poured out, as well as at the beginning of contractions, you should go to the hospital.

Before giving birth, the baby is actively moving down, overcoming many obstacles. To be born, he needs to overcome 12-15 cm.

During this time, the child additionally gains 500 grams of weight and grows by 1 cm.

42 week

Many pregnant women who have not yet given birth become nervous. But 42 weeks does not indicate a delayed pregnancy. At this time, you should go to the doctor to exclude pathologies in the development of the child. Sometimes fetal hypoxia occurs due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. At the appointment, the doctor will listen to the heartbeat, check the condition of the cervix and measure the abdomen. Sometimes a woman is prescribed additional studies to check the condition of the child, whether the neck is wrapped around the umbilical cord, whether there are signs of hypoxia.

If there are no contractions at the end of 42 weeks, then doctors stimulate labor.