The Unborn Child

Learn about the miracle of life. View each section below to see more pictures of the baby development throughout each month of each trimester. Learn about each of the developmental stages.

 

First Trimester (Months 1 - 3)

At the moment of conception, the new life has the complete genome of unique DNA the baby will have at birth and beyond. Gender, hair and eye color and other inherited characteristics are determined at this time. Unless specified as after conception, the weeks are counted from the date of last menstrual period which is usually two weeks prior to conception. Read More >>

 

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Second Trimester (Months 4 - 6)

The baby inhales and exhales, and the chin is no longer resting on the chest. At this point, all nourishment is from the placenta. The liver begins secreting bile. By week 14, your baby is probably sucking his thumb regularly. Thumb sucking has been seen as early as 7 weeks. Read More >>

 

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Third Trimester (Months 7 - 9)

Neurons and synapses are developing in huge numbers. Fingernails have reached the end of the fingertips. More fat and muscle strength accumulates. Skin is growing smooth. The average size is 7.5 pounds and 20 inches. Baby is settling down lower in the abdomen in preparation for birth and may seem less active. Read More >>