How pregnancy is divided into trimesters. What you need to know about the trimesters of pregnancy by week, how to behave in the first, second and third? Formation and growth of crumbs

15.07.2023

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Almost every expectant mother has heard that the entire period of pregnancy is conventionally divided into trimesters. So it is much more convenient to navigate both doctors and pregnant women themselves, because each of these periods has distinctive features. At the same time, not every woman knows how the trimesters of pregnancy are separated by weeks.

First of all, it should be noted that there are several options for distributing all weeks of the obstetric pregnancy calendar into three trimesters.

Some experts believe that the first trimester ends at 12 weeks, others at 13. There are also disagreements about the time for the completion of the second trimester and the onset of the third.

Nevertheless, the most rational is such a point of view, when all 40 obstetric weeks of pregnancy are divided into three equal parts.

If we round the result to the nearest whole week, we get the following trimester boundaries:

trimester - from 1 to 13 weeks inclusive;
trimester - from 14 to 27 weeks inclusive;
trimester - from 28 weeks until the birth of the baby.

This division of pregnancy trimesters into weeks is the most convenient.

pregnancy calculator

Brief description of trimesters

Knowing how many trimesters there are in pregnancy and what to pay attention to during each of these periods, a woman can use her time more rationally and avoid many complications when carrying a baby.

First trimester

The first trimester is marked by the birth of a new life. This period begins on the first day of the last menstruation. Actually, at this moment there is no pregnancy yet, the female body is just preparing for a possible upcoming fertilization.

After conception, the cells of the embryo begin to divide exponentially.

It is at this time, when the expectant mother may not even be aware of the birth of a new life, that some kind of failure in the programmed process of cell division may occur, as a result of which a miscarriage may occur, or any congenital pathologies may occur in the unborn child.

Fortunately, this happens quite rarely, therefore, subject to the successful course of pregnancy, the embryo develops very intensively.

Second trimester

During the first trimester, the physiological state of a woman changes dramatically. Despite the fact that the figure of a pregnant woman undergoes almost no changes, a real hormonal storm occurs in her body, as a result of which symptoms of toxicosis often occur. The entire metabolism is rebuilt in such a way as to meet the needs of the future baby in the necessary nutrients. Immunity during this period is somewhat reduced so that the embryo is not rejected by the mother's body.

The most important feature of the first trimester of pregnancy is the formation of all systems and organs of the fetus. That is why it is contraindicated for a woman to take almost all medicines, smoke, drink alcoholic beverages and indulge in other bad habits. It is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent the appearance of pathologies in the unborn baby.

The second trimester is the most calm and prosperous period for the expectant mother. All organs of the fetus are already formed, so you can worry less about the appearance of possible violations in the development of the baby. The baby in the tummy is beginning to take on a human form, but now it is only very remotely like a newborn.

All the functions of providing the body of the fetus with useful substances are now performed by the placenta, which is a kind of barrier between the body of the mother and the child. But this does not mean that it is permissible for a woman to indulge her bad habits, because any negative impact in one way or another affects the unborn baby.

The woman's tummy is noticeably rounded. The expectant mother during the second trimester of pregnancy usually feels great, because her body is already accustomed to the new state. At this time, you can visit the dentist and other specialists, complete important tasks at work and update your wardrobe. In general, in this short period it is necessary to do everything that is planned for the next few months, without waiting for the onset of the final trimester of pregnancy.

third trimester

The third trimester is the final stage of bearing a baby. The figure of the expectant mother changes dramatically, because the tummy reaches its maximum size. Now it is difficult for a woman to do physical work, so it is necessary to enlist the support of relatives and friends.

The baby is gaining weight intensively, taking up almost all the free space in the stomach. In the event of a premature birth, the child will have a chance of survival, which will be the higher, the later he is born. All organs of the fetus are improved. The lungs prepare for an independent breathing process, the endocrine glands produce hormones, the digestive system activates its activity, the brain increases significantly in size.

A future mother in the third trimester may experience some complications of pregnancy: late preeclampsia, hemorrhoids, varicose veins and other ailments. That is why it is necessary to pass the scheduled examinations on time and pay enough attention to yourself, not forgetting about rest and a quiet pastime.

Tests during pregnancy by trimesters

Throughout the entire period of pregnancy, a woman will need to pass a series of tests and undergo a lot of examinations. The main ones are tests during registration, as well as screenings, one in each of the trimesters.

The first trimester involves the following examinations:

general blood analysis;
a blood or urine test for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) upon registration to confirm the fact of pregnancy;
general urine analysis;
blood chemistry;
vaginal swab to detect bacterial infections;
a blood test to detect certain infections (hepatitis, HIV, rubella, etc.);
a blood test for the determination of Rh antibodies with the existing probability of developing a Rh conflict.

Screening of the first trimester is a comprehensive examination, which is carried out for a period of 11-13 weeks, consists in determining the level of certain substances in the blood: hCG, as well as PAPP-A, that is, plasma protein-A associated with pregnancy. In addition, the screening examination includes an ultrasound of the fetus. Based on the screening results, the risk of genetic abnormalities in the fetus is revealed. If the probability of anomalies is too high, a woman is recommended to undergo an additional examination by a geneticist.

The second trimester is the time for the following tests and procedures:

regular blood tests, urine;
blood chemistry;
measurement of a woman's body weight, abdominal circumference, standing height of the fundus of the uterus and other indicators;
second trimester screening.

This comprehensive examination consists of performing a blood test for a period of 16-20 weeks in order to determine the content of certain hormones, as well as performing an ultrasound scan of the fetus. In the blood, the level of free estriol, as well as AFP (alpha-fetoprotein), is established, and the level of hCG is re-determined. During the ultrasound, the specialist measures the parameters of the fetal body and compares them with the standard indicators placed in special tables. Based on the results obtained, the risk of the fetus having certain genetic abnormalities is again calculated. In addition, during the examination, some complications of pregnancy can be detected, in which case it will be necessary to undergo the prescribed course of treatment.

The third trimester is the final one, so the examinations are aimed at determining the condition of the fetus and identifying possible complications in the later period. The complex of surveys includes:

repeated blood test for the detection of antibodies, some dangerous infectious diseases (hepatitis, HIV, etc.);
urine analysis is performed several times in order to detect possible signs of preeclampsia;
smear from the vagina;
screening of the third trimester, which consists in conducting the next ultrasound of the fetus. During the examination, the specialist determines the size of the child, draws attention to the degree of development of his organs, specifies the presentation of the fetus, assesses the condition of the umbilical cord and placenta.

Women with chronic diseases of the kidneys, ENT organs, liver, heart and other organs are prescribed additional examinations from the relevant specialists.

Each of the trimesters of pregnancy is beautiful and wonderful in its own way. At first, a woman rejoices at the birth of a new life, trying to adapt to a new state for her. The middle of pregnancy is a calm and measured period when the expectant mother feels much better than in the first weeks of bearing a child. Finally, the final three months are notable for the fact that the long-awaited miraculous event of the birth of a baby will happen very soon, and this gives strength and confidence to the expectant mother.

The waiting period for a child is usually no more than 42 calendar weeks. The entire period of pregnancy is usually divided into 3 trimesters, each of which has its own characteristics.

In this article, we will tell you which week each trimester begins, as well as what features of the course of pregnancy you can notice, depending on its duration.

Sometimes doctors use a simplified method when calculating the gestational age - the maximum waiting period for a child of 42 weeks is divided into 3 equal trimesters, 14 weeks each. Thus, the 2nd trimester of pregnancy with this method of counting will begin from week 15, and 3 from 29.

However, another breakdown method is most often used - using a special table that lists all trimesters of pregnancy by week.

Consider the most significant features and changes in the entire period of pregnancy by week of each trimester, while breaking down the entire period of expectation of the child as shown in the table.

1st trimester of pregnancy by week

1-3 weeks. The countdown of the beginning of the waiting period for the baby begins from the first day of the last menstruation. A little later, the egg is fertilized and the tiny embryo attaches to the walls of the uterus. You don't even know what's going on inside you while you're still waiting for your next period.

4-6 weeks. The hormone hCG is produced in the body of a woman, during this period, most expectant mothers find out about their situation with the help of a pregnancy test. In a tiny embryo, a heart begins to form. Some women begin to experience malaise, as well as nausea in the morning.

7-10 weeks. The future baby is growing and developing rapidly, its weight is already about 4 grams. Mommy may gain a little weight, but there are no external changes yet. Most girls fully suffer from toxicosis.

11-13 weeks. Time to pass, which includes ultrasound diagnostics and a biochemical blood test to determine the likelihood of possible chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Toxicosis, most likely, is already receding. The baby has formed the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, spine and face. By the end of the first trimester, his height reaches 10 cm, and his body weight is about 20 grams.

2nd trimester of pregnancy by week

14-17 weeks. The baby is actively moving in the mother's tummy, but most pregnant women do not yet feel this. The growth of the fetus reaches 15 cm, and the weight is about 140 grams. The expectant mother herself is also actively gaining weight, and by this time her increase can reach 5 kg.

18-20 weeks. During this period, most women get acquainted with the sensation of moving their baby. The tummy is already so prominent that it cannot be hidden from prying eyes. The baby develops by leaps and bounds, its weight reaches 300 grams, and its height is 25 cm.

21-23 weeks. At this time, you will have to undergo a second screening test. Very often, it is on the second ultrasound that the doctor can already determine the sex of the baby, whose weight reaches 500 grams.

24-27 weeks. The uterus becomes quite large, and the expectant mother may experience discomfort - a feeling of heartburn and heaviness in the stomach, cramps in the legs, etc. The baby occupied the entire uterine cavity, his weight reaches 950 grams, and his height is 34 cm. His brain is fully formed .

3rd trimester of pregnancy by week

28-30 weeks. The load on the kidneys of a pregnant woman increases every day, the fetus develops incredibly rapidly - now it already weighs about 1500 grams, and its height reaches 39 cm. The baby's lungs begin to prepare for independent breathing.

31-33 weeks. During this period, you will undergo another ultrasound, on which the doctor will even be able to take photos of the baby's face. Its parameters reach 43 cm and 2 kg. The expectant mother is increasingly experiencing the body preparing for the upcoming birth.

34-36 weeks. All organs and systems of the baby are formed, and he is ready to be born, now until the due date he will only gain body weight. He becomes cramped in his mother's tummy, so the number of movements decreases. The weight of the fetus reaches 2.7 kg, height - 48 cm.

37-42 weeks. Usually during this period the logical end of pregnancy occurs - childbirth, the baby is born. Now he is already considered full-term, and the development of the lungs allows him to breathe on his own.

Motherhood is a huge responsibility, so in the process of bearing, mothers have a lot of questions. Every girl knows that the gestation period is conditionally divided into trimesters of pregnancy by weeks. This approach is very convenient for specialists and mothers themselves to navigate the deadlines and take into account their condition. Each trimester of pregnancy has its own characteristics and symptoms, characteristic changes in the fetus, the state of the pregnant woman, etc.

Newborn baby getting ready for bed after feeding

So, the conception happened and there are now nine months ahead, full of emotions and experiences, pleasant expectation, and sometimes fears. The entire period while the pregnancy lasts is subdivided into a certain number of weeks and trimesters of pregnancy. At the same time, pregnancy management by trimesters involves their division into a certain number of weeks.

Gynecologists calculate according to the obstetric method, while they begin to count the gestation period from the moment of the last menstruation, from the first day of the cycle. The pregnancy calendar for trimesters, as a rule, is built according to the obstetric principle. If we talk about the actual onset of conception, then it occurs 2-3 weeks later, but the exact day when fertilization occurs usually remains unknown.

The process of pregnancy takes a certain time. Immediately after fertilization, the cell goes to the uterine body, its route runs through the fallopian tube, and the implantation process takes a week or a little less, in fact, the egg is fixed to the uterine wall approximately 5-7 days after fertilization.

According to obstetric terms, the trimester schedule is 40 weeks, 280 days, 10 obstetric months, each of which consists of 28 days. There are three trimesters in total. Such a division is incredibly convenient for monitoring fetal development and the pregnant woman herself. To determine the PDR, an obstetric calculation method is also used, and in the future, the gestation period and the preliminary date of delivery are specified already with the help of delivery.

So, how many trimesters in pregnancy, we have already specified - there are three of them. How many weeks are in a trimester? This issue requires more detailed consideration.

The first trimester starts from the first obstetric week and lasts until the end of the 12th week of gestation. During this period, the formation of placental tissues takes place, the laying of all systems and organs of the future crumbs is carried out.
In the second trimester of pregnancy, which lasts from 13 to 27 weeks, there is an active growth of the fetus and its development.
The third stage is characterized by the beginning at the 28-week period. This stage lasts until delivery, it can last up to 41-43 weeks until the baby is born. At this stage of gestation, the fetus is actively preparing for childbirth and life is already separate from the mother's tummy. Also at this time, the internal organs of the baby ripen.

How are the trimesters of pregnancy distributed by week in the table.

Tracking the trimesters of pregnancy by weeks is very convenient for managing a pregnant woman, comparing the compliance of fetal development with accepted standards, etc.

Features of each period

When a mother discovers two stripes on the test, it is quite normal that she has a lot of questions, such as how to count the trimesters of pregnancy or how these periods are divided by weeks, the trimester of pregnancy is how much, etc. It is very important for doctors to know exactly which week of the term goes into mother at the moment. This makes it easier to detect any deviations or inconsistencies in fetal development.

But with regard to the division of trimesters into weeks, there are many contradictions, so such a division is considered to be very conditional. The weeks of pregnancy at each stage are characterized by a different number, i.e., the duration of the trimesters varies by week. A different number of weeks is associated with the course of certain processes, for example, by the end of the first stage, the final laying of the fetal organs is completed, at the second stage they actively develop and the crumbs grow, and at the third, all organs ripen, the crumb is rapidly gaining weight and growing, preparing for new life outside of mother's belly.

The first stage of gestation

There are 12 weeks of pregnancy in the first trimester of pregnancy. They begin to count from the moment of the last menstruation, although in fact the conception is considered completed only after the implantation of a fertilized egg, that is, from about the third obstetric week. So, during this period, a new life is born. It is at this stage that an interesting position of the patient is discovered and the doctor can already determine the pregnancy by weeks.

During this period, mommy should be especially careful, because the threat of miscarriage is great. The slightest overload or nervous stress can disrupt implantation, which will lead to improper or insufficient fixation of the fetal egg. The most dangerous periods for a miscarriage are considered to be 3-4 and 8-12 weeks: a 3-4-week period means implantation processes, and 8-12 weeks are dangerous for pregnancy as a period of large-scale hormonal changes.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, mothers face such a condition as toxicosis, swelling of the mammary glands, excessive emotionality and sudden mood swings. The fetus develops quite quickly, because already at 4-5 weeks a tiny heart begins to beat. According to the table of pregnancy trimesters by weeks, the first stage of gestation ends with the twelfth week. And the baby by this time:

The cerebral hemispheres and vertebral structures are laid and formed;
Endocrine structures are already beginning to function actively;
The gender of the crumbs is already formed;
Tooth germs appear and tiny fingernails begin to grow;
Facial features are already being determined, the baby begins to move, only mom is not yet able to feel his motor activity, because the fetus is still too small.

By months, the end of this stage falls on the third or beginning of the fourth month of gestation. During this period, it is necessary to monitor the condition very meticulously. Sexual intimacy is not prohibited, because pregnancy is considered a physiological state, and not a pathology. But delicate and gentle sexual relations are recommended, the partner should avoid sharp pushes and deep penetrations. If spastic pain in the uterus or spotting suddenly appears, then the mother should immediately contact the antenatal clinic. By the way, by the end of the first stage, the girl should already be on obstetric records in the LCD.

Second

It is necessary to include a salad of greens and vegetables in the diet

In the second trimester of pregnancy, which begins at week 13 and ends at week 27, mommy experiences, perhaps, the happiest and calmest period of gestation. She finally managed to get pregnant, the signs of early toxicosis are already passing, the threat of interruption disappears, the tummy has not yet become noticeable, but is starting to grow slowly, and mommy is full of energy and enjoys life. Usually, at this time, the girls literally bloom, gradually, as the crumbs grow, the gait begins to change.

The enlarged uterus begins to press, displacing the rest of the pelvic organs, against the background of which trips to the toilet become more frequent, heartburn may appear, constipation, etc., begin to disturb. But such manifestations are characteristic of the second half of this stage of gestation. Each girl is recommended to keep a gestation schedule, noting unusual sensations and new manifestations of an interesting position.

Now you should not avoid sexual intimacy with your spouse, because all the threats are behind, there is no toxicosis, so you can safely practice any poses, pampering your beloved man. This approach will only strengthen the marriage bond, and, therefore, bring the spouses together, but only in the absence of any individual contraindications for the pregnant woman. During this period, the first movements of the crumbs, felt by mommy, fall. The placenta, which was formed in the days of the first trimester of pregnancy, now performs the functions of protecting the crumbs and providing it with the necessary nutrition and oxygen. But still, you should not allow bad habits, since any harmful effect can affect the baby.

Additional factors

At this stage, it's time to go to the dentist if you have problems with your teeth, as well as buy new clothes for your wardrobe and complete important matters at work. After all, very soon, in a matter of weeks, mommy will no longer be up to it.

You will have to fall in love with shoes without heels, because the tummy is growing intensively, and the center of gravity is changing.
Also, during pregnancy, you will have to remove the thongs away, replacing them with ordinary cotton panties.
From about the 20th week, you can wear a special bandage that will relieve the load from the back, prevent the appearance of pain in the lumbar region and relieve the formation of stretch marks.
Now the amount of discharge may increase slightly, but you just need to make sure that there are no unpleasant itchy symptoms, blood impurities or an unpleasant odor.
Since the toxicosis has already passed, mothers often have an indefatigable appetite. You need to indulge your desires, but only in moderation, especially with regard to sweets and cakes.
The first felt movements may resemble light bubbles. But when the baby begins to move more clearly, then you need to be more attentive to his movements. Too intense tremors may indicate oxygen deficiency.

If earlier mom was forbidden to exercise in the pool or gym, now the doctor is likely to allow such classes so that mom can properly prepare the body for the last trimester and delivery. Mom now needs to walk more often in the air, and ventilate the apartment several times a day.

End of pregnancy

If there is no conception for a long time, you should consult a gynecologist

Dividing pregnancy into trimesters helps mothers navigate when unusual symptoms appear. Something for a particular period is considered the norm, and something is considered a dangerous sign, so mommy will be able to understand in time that not everything is in order with pregnancy. The beginning of the third trimester falls on the 28-29th week, and childbirth will become its logical conclusion. Doctors can calculate the preliminary day of delivery as much as they like, but the child will be born only when it is completely ready for this. Sometimes childbirth occurs even at 44 weeks.

Usually, already from the thirtieth week, the mother is on maternity leave, or even earlier, since such a long-awaited birth is inexorably approaching. Most often, delivery is scheduled for the fortieth week, however, not everyone gives birth on time, especially with multiple gestation. In fact, any diagnosis will show that the baby at the third stage of gestation from 36 weeks is already viable and will be able to live outside the mother's womb. But if the birth happened before 36 weeks, then special medical equipment is needed to get the baby out.

In fact, each trimester is equal to the quarters of the year, that is, it is three months. For the last, third quarter, the baby gains its final height, which can be about 49-52 cm. And its weight reaches about 3.5 kg. These parameters are approximate and are determined by genetic factors, lifestyle and diet in the last trimester before childbirth. It’s just that the main mass gain falls on the last 3 months, so it’s important to observe moderation in relation to food during this period, choose the right food.

What else do you need to know

Now doctors strongly recommend not to overeat and exclude sweets and desserts from the diet. Try to bring more movement into your life, although now they are a little more difficult than usual. At least walk more and wear a prenatal bandage. The baby already hears his mother perfectly and can be frightened by excessively loud sounds, so try to talk to him in a soft voice, and turn on the music quietly and preferably something from the classics.

Training contractions of the uterine walls are considered quite normal, helping the uterus to tune in and prepare for labor.
They are often confused with true contractions, but the latter are more intense and appear more and more often.
An early birth is indicated by a characteristic prolapse of the abdomen, in which the baby shifts down, lowers its head into the pelvic region and rests against the uterine fundus.
Also, a sign of early delivery is the discharge of the cervical mucous plug, which protects the entrance to the uterine cavity throughout pregnancy.

Now the main thing for mom is to ensure a quiet life, devoid of violent experiences and stressful situations. Sometimes this period is complicated by some unpleasant conditions that timely diagnosis reveals. These include the development of hemorrhoids, varicose veins, preeclampsia, etc. Therefore, it is important to undergo studies prescribed by a doctor.

Trimester analyzes

In order to identify probable deviations and exclude pregnancy pathologies, the mother periodically undergoes a series of studies and procedures during gestation. Blood tests determine the content of hCG, which, after implantation of the fetal egg, begins to rise, and if the increase occurs slightly, this may indicate an ectopic fixation of the embryo. They also donate blood for various infections such as AIDS, hepatitis, syphilis, and evaluate the Rh of the mother and father. Diagnostics also includes studies on pathology and antibodies like toxoplasmosis, rubella, herpesvirus or cytomegalovirus, etc.

When registering for obstetric registration in the LCD, you will need a medical examination by specialists such as a dentist, ophthalmologist, therapist, ENT specialist, etc. The first ultrasound examination is performed at 10-12 weeks, and the second at 20-24. On the second study, you can already see the floor of the crumbs, if he does not turn away and close from the sensor.

In the second trimester, the patient should be tested for TORCH infection. If a woman has not previously conceived, there have been miscarriages or fading, now they can prescribe triple testing for AFP, hCG and chorion. Thanks to this procedure, it is possible to timely detect such pathological features in the fetus as the presence of Down syndrome, etc. At the last stage of gestation, ultrasound is usually prescribed at 30-34 weeks. Specialists evaluate the readiness of the baby for birth, presentation, date of birth, blood flow between the uterus and the placenta, as well as fetoplacental circulation.

So, what are trimesters, what they are, we told. Each of these periods is characterized by its own characteristics. The main thing is that a girl needs to be as careful as possible during dangerous periods when there is a threat of miscarriage, and take all tests and ultrasound in time to prevent dangerous deviations and eliminate adverse factors.

It is well known that a woman carries a child for 9 months, or approximately 280 days. In obstetric practice, the division of pregnancy into trimesters is accepted. How many trimesters are there in pregnancy? There are three of them, and in each trimester, the expectant mother and her baby expect pleasant changes and serious dangers. For the convenience of monitoring a pregnant woman, doctors use a pregnancy calendar by trimesters, and pregnancy trimesters are painted by weeks.

First trimester of pregnancy: 1-12 weeks

In the first trimester of pregnancy, the so-called pregnancy symptoms appear: the absence of regular menstruation, early toxicosis, etc. It is during this period that all the vital systems of the child are laid down, so it is so important to know how long the first trimester of pregnancy lasts, what dangers lie in wait for mother and baby. Consider the first trimester of pregnancy week by week.

Your baby is growing

1-2 weeks - an egg develops in the body of the expectant mother, approximately at the end of the second week, ovulation and fertilization occur;
3 weeks - a fertilized egg reaches the uterus and is fixed in the endometrial layer;
4-5 weeks - the neural tube (the future central nervous system) is formed, the heart begins to beat;
6-7 weeks - the spine and cerebral hemispheres begin to form, the rudiments of eyes, auricles, arms and legs, liver, stomach, pancreas and thyroid glands appear;
8-9 weeks - all facial features are already distinguishable, genitals, intestines are formed, fingers appear on the hands;
10-12 weeks - the baby begins to move, nails appear on the fingers, and the rudiments of teeth appear in the gums. The heart is fully formed, and the endocrine system begins to produce hormones.

You are changing: around the 6th week of pregnancy, signs of toxicosis appear: morning sickness and vomiting. The chest swells and becomes sensitive, you visit the toilet more often - the growing uterus presses on the bladder. You get tired quickly, sleep a lot, often get irritated and cry. This is normal - your body is being rebuilt "in a pregnant way."

Important! Doctors consider the first trimester to be the most dangerous for the baby: any failure, infection, lack of vitamins or imbalance of hormones in the mother's body can lead to a miscarriage. Critical for the child are 3-4 weeks of pregnancy (when the implantation of the fetal egg into the uterus occurs) and 8-12 weeks (during this period, the "hormonal storm" in the pregnant woman is especially strong).

Second trimester of pregnancy: 13-27 weeks

This time is considered the easiest and most pleasant period of pregnancy: toxicosis has receded, the tummy is just starting to grow, the tearful mood of the first weeks has been replaced by joyful expectation, I want to do a thousand things. It is in the second trimester that women really blossom.

Your baby is growing and very fast! If at the beginning of the second trimester his height is approximately 10 cm, and his weight is 30 g, then by the end of this period (27 weeks), the child weighs on average about 1.2 kg with a height of 35 cm! In addition, you can already determine the sex of the baby. The skeleton is fully formed, the muscular system and the brain are developing. The baby moves a lot, and at 18-22 weeks, the mother can already feel the first movements.

You are changing: your tummy becomes more and more prominent. Now is the time to get a "pregnant" wardrobe, and the doctor will advise you to wear a bandage (from 20-22 weeks). The only thing that can overshadow this wonderful period is pain in the back or hip joints.

Important! At this stage, genetic abnormalities and severe fetal malformations can be identified, so if you are at risk, be sure to take the “triple test”.

Third trimester of pregnancy: 28-40 weeks

This is the last trimester of pregnancy, the most difficult for the expectant mother: the weight and proportions of the body have changed so much that it is already difficult to walk, sleep and even breathe. In addition, the woman is overcome by fears, she again becomes emotional and irritable.

Your baby is growing all his organs are formed. The child already hears, makes respiratory movements, distinguishes taste. The head is covered with hairs, and the body is covered with a lubricant that will help to pass through the birth canal.

You are changing: the uterus continues to grow, and it is already difficult for you to breathe. False contractions may appear - the uterus begins to prepare for childbirth. You get tired quickly again, often run to the toilet, sleep poorly.

Important! At 28-32 weeks of pregnancy, signs of late toxicosis may appear: edema, increased blood pressure, rapid weight gain, protein in the urine.

With the appearance of two stripes on the test, life is radically changing, how to live now and what to do? How is a new life born and what happens in the stomach of expectant mothers during 9 months of pregnancy?

What trimesters of pregnancy exist and what exactly happens in each of them, worries, in fact, only expectant mothers. It is important for doctors to know what week of pregnancy is the most accurate measurement of the term.

In total, there are three trimesters of pregnancy, each for about three months - a total of nine months.

The division into trimesters is rather arbitrary, in each of them the number of weeks is different. So in the first trimester there are 12 of them, and in the second and third, 16 each. This division is associated with the nature of the changes that occur with the baby at one time or another. In the first trimester, the laying of internal organs occurs, in the second, their intensive development and growth of the fetus, and in the third, the emphasis is on weight gain and preparation for life outside the mother's body.

First trimester of pregnancy

What's going on in mom's tummy

As mentioned above, the first trimester includes 12 obstetric weeks, which are counted from the moment the egg meets the sperm in the fallopian tube. From this point on, it will be another two weeks before the fertilized egg successfully reaches the uterus and attaches to its endometrium (outer layer) for further growth and development. They often confuse and start counting weeks from this very moment, but it is obstetric weeks that should be taken for calculation.

If the pregnancy is planned, the girls start doing tests from the very first days of the delay. It's early enough and the test will most likely be negative. For the accuracy of the result, it is better to wait 1-2 weeks and repeat the test. It reacts to the so-called pregnancy hormone - hCG, and it begins to double every 2-3 days from the moment of conception.

When the zygote (fertilized egg) is attached, its intensive development will begin. In the first three months, she will turn into a tiny man with all the necessary internal organs and systems. It will be possible to listen to a beating heart and see with the help of ultrasound how the future baby is somersaulting, moving his arms and legs. By the end of the third month of pregnancy, the weight of the embryo is about 14 g, and the weight from head to calf (KTR - calf-parietal size) can reach up to 9 cm.

How the life of a future mother changes

Not everyone immediately realizes the new situation. You shouldn't be afraid of this. When you see a little man on the ultrasound monitor, or a little later you feel his first movements, the necessary feelings will come.

The first trimester of pregnancy is considered the most difficult period of pregnancy for some expectant mothers. Although for someone it goes unnoticed, you should especially take care of yourself. Now all the vital organs of the baby are being laid, and the woman's body is adapting to the new position, sometimes causing not the most pleasant responses:

Toxicosis. A frequent companion of the first trimester, although it bypasses some lucky women. Because of it, appetite may disappear and even weight may decrease a little - do not be afraid, the body will then return its own. But of course, it is necessary to be observed by a doctor and inform him about the symptoms. To minimize the consequences of such an unpleasant phenomenon, you should ventilate the premises more often, spend more time in the fresh air, and try to sleep for at least 8 hours. It helps some to gnaw a cracker in the morning without getting out of bed. Toxicosis is a temporary phenomenon, and, as a rule, it disappears by the end of the first trimester.
Gastronomic delights. If previously loved foods can cause disgust up to vomiting and nausea, then strange and absolutely incompatible foods can whet a wild appetite.
Frequent urination. The uterus begins to grow and, accordingly, put pressure on some internal organs, hence the constant urge.
Violation of the digestive tract - constipation or diarrhea, as you are lucky.
Lethargy, weakness, drowsiness. The body is moving to a new working rhythm, it needs time to adapt. This is a normal response to such a serious change. Rest at every opportunity, now learn to take care of yourself and listen to your desires.
Sensitivity in the chest area, even painful sensations are possible. Hormonal changes prepare the mammary glands for breastfeeding. The chest may slightly increase, swell.

Not necessarily all of the above signs should appear in all pregnant women. Someone will feel only a part of them, and someone will not notice any changes in themselves at all. Everything is individual, there are no norms.

So, in the first trimester, a woman should get enough sleep, rest during the day, eat the right and healthy food, giving up fast foods and unverified cafes. You should not visit the sauna during this period and lie in hot water, carry weights and generally overstrain. Smoking and alcohol should be completely forgotten, ideally even at the stage of pregnancy planning!

You can’t overexert yourself, but you can and even need to move. Preferably in company with someone and in the fresh air. And if the tests are excellent and the doctor gave the go-ahead, it's time to do gymnastics for pregnant women and go swimming in the pool.

You should pay attention to the sensations in the abdomen. Sharp pulling pains that do not go away, accompanied by impurities of blood in the secretions, may be evidence of a fading pregnancy and a miscarriage that has begun.

Now we need to take care of ourselves more than ever. Any mild cold can negatively affect the embryo, because the placenta is still at the stage of formation, which means that any microbe can penetrate and cause harm.

Analyzes and examinations in the 1st trimester of pregnancy

To begin with, as soon as there are suspicions of pregnancy, and the test showed a positive result, you should immediately consult a doctor. An increase in the hCG hormone in rare cases does not necessarily mean pregnancy, and its poor dynamics may indicate an ectopic pregnancy. In the second case, fertilization also occurred, only the embryo for some reason attached itself in the wrong place (in the fallopian tube, on the ovary, in the abdominal cavity ...), while hCG will also grow, but at a slower rate than during normal pregnancy. Therefore, the doctor will first of all send you for a blood test several times in order to firstly confirm the increase in the hormone, and secondly, to track its dynamics in exact numbers. After several such tests, the doctor finally confirms the pregnancy, puts it on record and gives further directions for tests and examinations.

As a rule, they donate blood for all kinds of infections and diseases (AIDS, syphilis, hepatitis ...), they look at the Rh factor (if mom is negative and dad is positive, it will be necessary to donate blood for antibodies every 3 weeks). They will conduct a general analysis of blood and urine, tests for the presence of rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpesvirus, and so on. This is necessary to warn mommy from potential dangers. For example, if she does not have antibodies to rubella, then you should especially protect yourself from it, since it can cause irreversible fetal pathologies or even provoke a miscarriage.

It will be necessary to go through a number of specialists - an ophthalmologist, dentist, ENT and therapist. As a rule, at the beginning and end of pregnancy. This is necessary to determine the course of childbirth, for 9 months, due to the ever-increasing load, vision may deteriorate, for example. And poor eyesight is a reason for a planned caesarean section.

At a period of 10-12 weeks, the first ultrasound is usually done (if for some reason it was performed earlier, it will have to be repeated at this time). It is advisable to go to it with your spouse. For many, it is very surprising that for such a short period of time there is a real little man in the tummy - arms, legs, head.

Second trimester of pregnancy

How does the expectant mother feel?

The most fertile period of pregnancy covers from 13 to 28 weeks. Unpleasant symptoms, such as toxicosis or constant fatigue, are already behind us. The tummy is already rounded, but not yet so much that it interferes with movement and the normal rhythm of life.

It's time to switch to shoes with a flat sole, because as the stomach grows, the center of gravity also shifts, balance is disturbed. Thongs should be abandoned in favor of the most ordinary cotton underwear. Maternity stores sell special nursing bras, you can start wearing them now. They have a soft lining, which gives undoubted comfort with increased sensitivity in the chest area. Other clothes are also sold there - outerwear, casual, swimwear, pajamas, etc. The main thing is that the clothes are loose, breathable and there is no pressure in the tummy area.

You might consider wearing a bandage. Usually start from the 20th week to prevent the appearance of stretch marks. However, it should be remembered that the constant wearing of a bandage weakens the abdominal muscles, which means that it will be more difficult to bring it into shape after childbirth. An additional and mandatory measure against the appearance of stretch marks will be the daily use of special moisturizers. Olive oil is perfect as an alternative to expensive cosmetic preparations.

If in the first trimester, for some reason, going to the gym and swimming pool were forbidden, now, most likely, now the doctor will give the go-ahead. And this must be taken advantage of, because how else to prepare the body and the little baby for labor? Walking in the fresh air is desirable every day, and try to ventilate the air in the room as often as possible.

Since the toxicosis was supposed to recede, most likely, a period of constant desire to eat something will begin now. This is a very tricky moment. Of course, it is necessary to indulge desires, but in moderation! It is better to try to avoid cakes and pastries that have absolutely no benefit other than gastronomic satisfaction.

The amount of discharge may increase, there should not be any unpleasant sensations (itching, burning), there should be no bloody impurities. With the advent of the first perturbations, one must observe them. If the baby is not active for a long time, it can be dangerous. There is still a risk of pregnancy fading, therefore, with such signs, you should consult a doctor.

Meanwhile in the stomach

By about the 16th week, the laying of the internal organs of the crumbs and the formation of the placenta are completed. From now on, it will protect him reliably from germs and various infections. But until then, a cold in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy is still a serious danger. It is especially dangerous because traditional methods of dealing with it are inappropriate during pregnancy. Most medicines can seriously harm your baby. So, prevention is better than cure. And if we treat it, then only with the help of a doctor. You should not do this on your own, because even a banal sore throat can be the result of a bunch of completely different diseases.

Between 16 and 22 weeks, the first movements in the tummy are usually felt. For some, this resembles light bubbles, and for some it is akin to the movements of the fin of a small fish. The first movements are felt earlier if the expectant mother is thin or her pregnancy is not her first. When the movements are already clear, that even dad can feel them, you should begin to follow their character. Too intense kicks mean that the baby does not have enough oxygen. You should put aside all your affairs and at least briefly go out and get some fresh air. If the child does not manifest itself in any way for more than a day, you should immediately see a doctor. In the second trimester, the risk of pregnancy fading remains. Usually, babies start kicking when mom lies down for a while without moving. So some pregnant babies are sometimes not allowed to sleep.

During the second trimester, the baby grew to 39 cm, and its weight is about 1 kg. There is practically no room in the stomach for somersaults, however, if the child is not positioned correctly in the womb, he can still change his position. Doctors for this recommend special gymnastics, inclinations and classical music. Music should be listened to in large headphones, pressing them to the lower abdomen. From the 13th week, babies can perfectly hear everything that is happening around. So in addition to classical music (they say it has a beneficial effect on the development of the child), you can talk with the baby, introducing the future dad to this. The baby will learn to recognize your voices and calm down from their sound, both in the tummy and after childbirth.

During the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, the baby will do a great job in its development. On ultrasound, you can see a real little man who knows how to frown, smile and even grimace.

Analyzes and examinations in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy

The second ultrasound according to the plan is optimally performed at 20-24 weeks. If the pregnancy is multiple and it was not established earlier, now this fact will be confirmed. If the baby does not turn away, you can see its gender. Ultrasound is necessary in order to evaluate the work of the internal organs of the crumbs and recognize possible pathologies and defects. The amount of amniotic fluid is estimated, the date of the PDR is specified.

In addition to an ultrasound examination, blood, urine and a smear are taken as standard. If necessary, the doctor may refer to the analysis for TORCH - infections.

If in the past there was a fading of pregnancy, or there are relatives with congenital pathologies, they may be offered to undergo a triple test. In this case, blood is taken from a vein and three important components - hCG, AFP and choriol - are checked for the presence of special markers. This is necessary to assess the risk of diseases such as Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome, for example.

Cordocentesis is another procedure that a pregnant woman can undergo in the second trimester. It is not mandatory and can be assigned if any deviations are identified. Using a special needle, fetal blood is taken from the umbilical cord in order to study it in detail. The procedure is not completely safe, in rare cases, after it there was a miscarriage in pregnant women.

At 23-24 weeks, a doppler is prescribed, although sometimes this happens later - at 30-34 weeks. This study is necessary in order to assess the usefulness of the blood flow, whether the baby’s body is well supplied with blood and whether he has enough oxygen.

Third trimester of pregnancy

What happens in the stomach

It is referred to from 29 to 44 weeks. Yes, it happens that childbirth occurs at 44 weeks! Although usually after 42 weeks, doctors try to stimulate labor as much as possible, because overwearing is a serious threat to both the mother and her baby. The longer he is in the womb, the stronger the bones harden, the crumb itself becomes more and more every day. And the most dangerous thing in this situation is that the placenta, which is necessary for the life of a small organism, nourishing it and supplying it with important vitamins and minerals, begins to age. That is, it ceases to cope with its functions, and this is dangerous, first of all, for the baby's brain.

DDD usually occurs around 40 weeks, but it is rare for a term-on-term delivery. It happens that childbirth occurs earlier, especially if the pregnancy is multiple. In the third trimester of pregnancy, the baby is already considered viable outside the mother's body. But if the birth occurred for some reason before the 36th week, then special equipment is needed to nurse the baby. The fact is that only from the 36th week his lungs will finally form and he will be able to breathe on his own.

During the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the baby continues to add growth, although not at the same pace as before. He will reach about 52 cm and gain about 3.5 kg of weight. Of course, all children are different, and these parameters depend on the genetic characteristics of his parents and on the lifestyle and nutrition of his mother in the last three months. Indeed, in the third trimester, the main weight gain occurs in both the woman and her baby. That is why right now it is so important not to overeat and give preference to the right food. If the baby is too large, they may even prescribe a caesarean section. In addition, excess weight can complicate the health of the mother, who will be harder every day.

What should mom do

From the 30th week, the mother is supposed to go on the long-awaited maternity leave, and if the pregnancy is multiple, then even earlier. The tummy is large enough, but so far does not greatly restrict movement. So you can immediately arrange a professional photo session. Then it will be harder, with each week the weight gain will be more noticeable.

As mentioned above, in the third trimester, the main weight gain occurs. You should not overeat, and empty calories (cakes, sweet pastries) should be completely postponed until better times. If possible, it is better to move more, to be in the fresh air, putting on a bandage if necessary - it will greatly ease the load on the lower back. The pool will be a real outlet for pregnant women in the later stages. After all, it's no secret that all objects seem lighter in water. Similarly, it will be nice to feel the former lightness of women with already large tummies. In gymnastics for pregnant women at such a late date, the emphasis is no longer on strength exercises, but on Pilates. Muscles prepare for childbirth. Particular attention is paid to Kegel exercises - with their help, the muscles of the pelvic floor are trained, which are directly involved in labor. With their help, they become more elastic, and after childbirth they recover faster.

The kid has long heard and even sees (at least distinguishes between light and darkness). He can be frightened of loud sounds, so it is better to forget about noisy parties for now. But the sounds of the voice of mom and dad and pleasant classical music can calm him down.

Now there are many courses for expectant mothers. Now is the time to start visiting them! Many of them are booked in advance, so it’s better to find out everything a month in advance, clarify the schedule in order to start right away. They will tell you about the signs of childbirth, about the process of labor, how to behave, and so on. Knowing this information and giving birth will not be scary at all. Many courses also include lessons on newborn care. Although the best school in the second case would be to take a joint ward with a baby in the maternity hospital and immediately study under the strict guidance of doctors and pediatricians.

Bregston-Higgs practice contractions may begin. This is normal, as the uterus prepares for childbirth. The main thing is not to confuse them with real ones. Training does not increase in strength, the interval between them can jump. But the real ones will definitely be more intense, and the interval will gradually decrease.

Listen carefully to yourself and your baby! Although there is almost no place in the tummy, from time to time it should remind of itself. It is necessary to track the nature of his movements. Your body will tell you exactly when labor should begin. For example, one of the first signs is considered to be lowering of the abdomen. This is pretty easy to track - you can measure the height of your navel above the floor and stick a strip of tape on the mirror in this place, or draw a dot with a marker. And then measure - whether the navel has become below the intended line.

A change in the nature of the discharge can also suggest that childbirth is just around the corner. The release of the cork changes the consistency of the discharge and makes it look like a transparent jellyfish.

The most important thing in this period is to provide yourself with complete peace, protect yourself from stress and fully prepare for the meeting with the baby, both physically and psychologically. You can do meditation. Many people imagine a spacious green meadow with a calm relaxing melody.

Analyzes and examinations in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy

Ultrasound in the third trimester of pregnancy is carried out at 30-34 weeks. The readiness of the baby for childbirth, its presentation (buttock or pelvic may be an indication for caesarean section) is assessed. They look at the placenta, evaluate the fetoplacental and uteroplacental blood flow. PDR is confirmed, the state of development of the baby is assessed.

In the third trimester, a woman increasingly comes to the consultation. She is weighed and her blood pressure is measured, urine tests are taken every week! This is necessary, because even in 7 days the situation can change radically at such a late date.

Summing up

Pregnancy is an incredibly complex and at the same time thought out to the smallest detail process. In just 9 months, a new life is born in a woman's tummy. A little man is born, able to see, hear, touch, smell ... Being a mother is an incredible happiness and vocation for every woman. In children, our continuation.