During pregnancy, an unborn baby spends approximately 38 weeks in the womb. This pregnancy week-by-week calendar illustrates normal pregnancy (gestation period of 42 weeks).
The length of pregnancy is normally counted from the start of the woman’s last menstrual period, and not usually the date of conception as much as we know that normally the conception occurs two weeks later.
A full-term pregnancy that is considered to be normal is about 40 weeks and or may vary in individuals or conditions from 37 to 42 weeks. Pregnancy is also divided into three trimesters. Each trimester takes about 12 and 14 weeks or an average of about 3 months.
Table of Contents
First Trimester
During the first trimester of pregnancy, the embryo grows and develops into a fetus. The pregnancy hormone, HCG, is produced during this time. This hormone helps to sustain the pregnancy by keeping the corpus luteum functioning. The corpus luteum is responsible for producing progesterone, which is essential for pregnancy.
Common symptoms experienced during the first trimester include nausea and vomiting (“morning sickness”), fatigue, breast tenderness, and mood swings. These symptoms are caused by the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.
First Trimester pregnancy week by week calendar
Second Trimester
The second trimester is typically considered to be the easiest and most enjoyable part of pregnancy. Morning sickness usually subsides during this time, and energy levels often increase. The baby continues to grow and develop rapidly during the second trimester.
Common symptoms experienced during the second trimester include back pain, Braxton Hicks contractions, heartburn, and constipation. These symptoms are caused by the physical changes that occur as the pregnancy progresses.
Second Trimester pregnancy week by week calendar
Third Trimester
The third trimester is the home stretch! The baby is fully developed at this point and is just waiting to be born. Common symptoms experienced during the third trimester include shortness of breath, hemorrhoids, and swelling.
These symptoms are caused by the physical changes that occur as the pregnancy progresses.
Labor and delivery are typically induced when pregnancy reaches full term (40 weeks). This process begins with cervical ripening, which softens and opens the cervix in preparation for labor.
Once the cervix is ripe, labor can be induced with Pitocin, a synthetic form of the hormone oxytocin.
Pitocin is administered intravenously and causes the uterus to contract. The contractions help to move the baby down the birth canal and into the world. Delivery typically occurs within a few hours after induction begins.
Third Trimester pregnancy week by week calendar
Congratulations! You have just completed one of the most amazing journeys of your life. We hope this article has helped you to better understand and enjoy pregnancy. Thanks for reading!
Frequently asked Questions on Pregnancy Week by Week
- What week is most critical in pregnancy?
- Does 4 weeks pregnant mean 2 weeks?
- When do I start showing?
- How does your lower stomach feel in early pregnancy?