Watching your baby grow from a tiny cluster of cells into a fully-formed little one is nothing short of miraculous. Every month brings new milestones, each one a beautiful reminder of the life blossoming within you. Understanding these developments can help you feel even more connected to your baby.
Here on Mommoments with Yogita, let’s take a month-by-month look at the incredible changes happening inside your womb.
Month 1: Conception and Early Growth
- The journey begins with fertilization, forming a zygote that rapidly divides.
- The embryo implants in the uterus, and the placenta begins to develop.
- By the end of the month, your baby is about the size of a poppy seed.
Month 2: Heartbeat and Limb Formation
- Your baby’s heart starts beating around the 6th week.
- Tiny buds form, which will become arms and legs.
- Facial features like the eyes, nose, and ears begin to take shape.
- Baby is now about the size of a blueberry.
Month 3: Fingers, Toes, and Movement
- Fingers and toes develop, and nails begin to form.
- The organs, including kidneys, liver, and intestines, continue growing.
- Though too small for you to feel, your baby has started to move.
- By the end of the first trimester, your baby is around the size of a plum.
Month 4: Gender Reveal and Kicks
- Your baby’s genitals are now visible on an ultrasound, revealing the gender.
- Fine hair called lanugo covers the body for warmth.
- You may start to feel tiny flutters known as “quickening.”
- Your baby is about the size of an avocado.
Month 5: Senses and Sound
- Your baby’s hearing develops, and they may respond to sounds.
- The skin is coated with vernix, a protective white substance.
- Movements become more pronounced and regular.
- Baby is now around the size of a banana.
Month 6: Facial Expressions and Hiccups
- Your baby practices facial expressions like smiling and yawning.
- They may experience hiccups, which you might notice as rhythmic movements.
- The lungs continue to develop, preparing for that first breath.
- Your little one is about the size of a cantaloupe.
Month 7: Brain Development and Bonding
- Your baby’s brain undergoes rapid growth.
- They can open and close their eyes and detect light changes.
- You’ll likely notice a consistent movement pattern by now.
- Baby is around the size of an eggplant.
Month 8: Gaining Strength and Weight
- Your baby’s bones are strengthening, though still soft.
- Layers of fat form under the skin, giving a chubby appearance.
- The lungs are nearly mature, and the brain continues to grow.
- Your little one is about the size of a pineapple.
Month 9: Ready for the World
- Your baby is practicing breathing movements and is getting into the head-down position.
- You’ll feel strong kicks and possibly some shifts as space becomes limited.
- The vernix and lanugo start to disappear.
- By birth, your baby will likely be around the size of a watermelon!
Final Thoughts
Every month of pregnancy brings awe-inspiring changes that reflect the miracle of life. Knowing what’s happening inside your womb can deepen the connection you feel with your baby and make the journey even more memorable.
I’d love to hear about your experiences and the milestones that brought you joy! Let’s continue celebrating motherhood together here on Mommoments with Yogita.
