The thirteenth week of pregnancy marks the beginning of the second trimester and is an exciting time for expectant parents as the fetus undergoes significant developments. At this stage, the fetus is now officially called an embryo, and its size has increased significantly, measuring around 3 inches in length and weighing approximately 0.81 ounces.
Let’s take a closer look at the developments occurring in the embryo during the thirteenth week of pregnancy:
Growth and Development: The embryo’s limbs have grown longer, and their proportional length is now closer to what it will be at birth. The fingers and toes have separated fully, and their nails are starting to form. The head is still quite large, accounting for almost half of the embryo’s length. The face is now looking more human, with the eyes moving closer together, and the ears are shifting into their final position.
Reproductive System: The reproductive system has also begun to develop, and gender can be determined through ultrasound. In males, the prostate gland is forming, while in females, the ovaries have developed millions of primitive eggs.
Reflexes: The embryo has started to develop reflexes, such as sucking, swallowing, and blinking, and can even respond to touch. However, these movements are still too weak to be felt by the mother.
Teeth: The buds of the baby teeth have formed under the gums, and the embryo’s digestive system is developing, preparing for the baby’s first feed.
Vocal cords: The vocal cords are beginning to form in the embryo, and the fetus can make noises, although these are still too faint to be audible to the mother.
Placenta: The placenta, which is the link between the mother and fetus, has developed blood vessels that allow for the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products.
Movement: The embryo is now very active, making constant movements, and the mother may feel the fluttering sensation known as quickening.
At this stage, the embryo is still very vulnerable to outside factors such as infections, drugs, and alcohol, so expectant mothers must continue to take care of their health. This includes getting adequate rest, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and taking prenatal vitamins as prescribed by the doctor.
In conclusion, the thirteenth week of pregnancy is a significant milestone in the embryo’s development, marking the beginning of the second trimester. The fetus is growing and developing rapidly, and expectant mothers should continue to take care of their health to ensure a healthy pregnancy and birth.
