Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Fetal Development
Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Fetal Development
What are the key aspects of fetal development during the third trimester?
As you enter the final stretch of your pregnancy journey, the third trimester, you’re entering a remarkable phase. Your baby is growing so much! Their lungs are developing and getting stronger, preparing for those very first breaths in the world. And they’re also moving into the proper position for their big debut, usually turning their heads down. In this exciting stage, they are also able to:
- They’re getting bigger every day, weighing something like a miniature watermelon (around 6 to 9 pounds) and stretching as long as a ruler (19 to 21 inches)
- Their little brain is developing rapidly, getting ready for all the wonders of the world they’re about to explore.
- While their bones are getting stronger, their little skull stays soft for now (it makes the big journey into the world easier).
- They can already see and hear! They’re probably listening to your voice and getting to know you from the inside.
- Those tiny lungs are getting stronger, gearing up for their first breath.
- They’re also packing cute baby fat to stay warm and energized when they arrive.
- You’ll keep feeling those little kicks and stretches even with less room.
- They’re getting more robust by borrowing some of your immunity.
- They’re practicing breathing in there.
- They’re shedding that fine hair, and their skin is losing that waxy coating, preparing for cuddles and kisses.
- Their kidneys and lungs are nearly ready to handle life outside.
- They can suck their thumb and might even shed a few tears inside your womb.
- Around 34 weeks, they will likely flip head-down, getting all set for their big entrance.
- And by 39 weeks, they’ll be full-term and as ready as ever to see the world. But even after birth, they’ll keep growing and learning – especially their lungs and brain.
As you inch closer to your due date, your baby cozies into a head-down position, perfect for a smooth birth. Your body’s also getting ready, with changes in hormone levels your cervix starting to prepare for labor and delivery.
