A Summary of Prenatal Development
The following is a summary of a baby's
development in the womb.
* Within the first hours and days after
conception, the baby's cells divide, taking on
different forms and functions. Development is
rapid and complex. The baby's heart begins
beating when the mother's period is four days
late.
* A good doctor, with the latest equipment,
can let you hear this heartbeat when you are
only six weeks pregnant. Upon doing an internal
exam, the doctor can push your uterus forward
against your anterior abdominal wall (tummy) and
pick up your baby's heartbeat with a special
ultrasonic transducer. You can record your
baby's heartbeat on a cassette tape. If your
doctor does not have ultrasonic equipment, you
may have to wait a few weeks to hear the
heartbeat.
* At two months, the baby has every organ in
place, is moving vigorously, has distinctive
fingerprints, and can feel pain, even though
only an inch or so long.
* At three months, every baby has a unique
personality and distinct features. Some babies
are graceful ballerinas while others are
quarterbacks, gymnasts, or soccer players.
You'll soon know your baby's kicking pattern!
* A five-month-old baby has sleeping cycles.
A loud noise will startle the baby. Unborn
babies like soothing music and hate loud,
discordant noise. A baby of this age can learn
in the womb--this was proven by scientists at
Prenatal University in California.
* At six months, the baby has a chance of
survival if born early. Your baby is aware of
your emotions and love. Your thoughts and
feelings are helping the baby establish
personality and security. By thinking pleasant
thoughts and speaking to your baby, you build
your child's confidence and help your baby feel
secure and loved.
* At seven months, a baby can see light
through your abdominal wall and doesn't like
brightness. Reacting to extreme light, the baby
will kick. A lot. Wearing a bikini to the beach
may not be the best idea! Use it next summer.
* At birth, a baby will have the same
sleeping, waking, and activity patterns as in
the womb. Is the baby a thumb sucker? Vigorous
hiccupper? Daytime sleeper--nighttime mover? The
baby is continuing to act in familiar ways.
Birth merely changes the location where the baby
lives. Your child is a unique person from the
very beginning and will remain so forever.