Your baby develops in different phases, which is why prenatal care is essential during a pregnancy. Taking vitamins, getting medical checkups, and leading a healthier lifestyle increases the probability you’ll deliver a healthy infant. To know what to expect while you’re expecting, below is a guide to how your baby will grow in utero.  

A Brief Overview of Nine Months of Pregnancy  

Months One Through Three

During the first month, the amniotic sac starts to form around the fertilized egg, protecting the growing embryo from harm. Attaching the umbilical cord to the uterus wall, the placenta delivers oxygen and nutrients from mother to embryo. Portions of your baby’s facial structure also develop.  The heart begins beating.

In month two, ears and the start of arms and legs form as well as the digestive tract, sensory organs, spinal cord, brain, and bones. At six weeks, an ultrasound during a prenatal care checkup should detect a heartbeat. Arms and legs are completely formed by the third month, with fingernails, teeth, and reproductive organs beginning to grow. 

Months Four Through Six

In the fourth month, expectant mothers can clearly see eyelids, eyebrows, and other distinguishing features on the monitor during a prenatal care exam. You can also listen to the heartbeat on a doppler. The ultrasound equipment also measures blood circulation. With developed reproductive organs, a doctor can let you know the sex. With nervous system function, the baby can yawn and move its arms, legs, and hands.

By the fifth month, you could feel the baby kick as it stretches. Hair follicles and coatings also form over the skin for added protection, which is shed later. In month sixth, the baby can open its eyes and hiccup. 

Months Seven Through Nine

By the seventh month, the baby can hear when you talk. He or she will also move around more frequently in the womb. Hearing as well as eyesight further improve in the eighth month of pregnancy. To provide insulation when they are out of the womb, your baby is building up its reserves of body fat. By the ninth month, they are ready to be born, with developed lungs and reflexes.

For prenatal care services in the Baldwin County, AL, area, reach out to Women's Care Medical Center, with offices located in Robertsdale, Gulf Shores and Bay Minette Coastal college campus. The center provides free pregnancy testing, medical consultations, options counseling, ultrasounds and much more. Find more information, visit them online or call (251) 947-2111 to speak with a friendly representative.