The Second Trimester of Pregnancy: Fetal development
The Second Trimester of Pregnancy: Fetal Development
What are the key fetal development milestones in the second trimester?
During your second trimester pregnancy, your baby is blossoming beautifully! Here’s what’s happening in fetal development:
- Unique fingerprints and toes are forming.
- Adorable baby fat is starting to develop.
- Your baby is growing quickly in size and weight.
- Soft hair is beginning to sprout on their little heads.
- Their skin is still a bit wrinkly and covered with lanugo.
- Tiny fingernails are emerging. Those tiny fingers and toes are now sweetly defining themselves, each becoming distinct and separate.
- The placenta is fully developed, nourishing your baby.
- Baby’s first movements might be happening!
- They could be practicing smiles and frowns.
- The skin is thickening up.
- Bones are getting stronger.
- You might start feeling gentle kicks soon.
- Baby’s ears are tuned in, listening to your voice.
- A baby’s skin is naturally covered with vernix caseosa, a protective layer.
- A sleep pattern is starting to develop.
- Taste buds are ready, tasting what you eat.
- Lungs are preparing for the first breath.
- Reflexes like gripping are kicking in.
- Eyebrows and eyelashes are appearing.
- Your baby may react to sounds and your voice.
- The brain and nervous system are rapidly developing.
- Those precious eyes can now open and close.
During this trimester, your baby is experiencing incredible growth and development. Your baby’s body organs will continue to develop, and each trimester prenatal visits will give you a unique opportunity to observe and cherish these advancements.