DEVELOPMENT OF BABY IN WOMB: MONTHS 6-9
Sixth Month As mother and the unborn child enter the sixth month the hair is starting to grow longer and the eyelashes and eyebrows are now formed. If baby is born at this time it could live but the lungs are not yet fully formed and the fetus might die. Modern medicine has, however, made great advances in the treatment and management of premature infants and the chances now for survival are improving all the time. Baby now weighs about 0.5 kg (1.10 pounds) and is approximately 32 cm (13 inches) in length.
Seventh Month Mother and the unborn child are now entering the seventh month (28 weeks). Baby could weigh as much as 0.9 kgs (2 pounds) and have attained a length of 38 cm (14.5 inches). The nails now break through the thin covering that protects them and the membrane that has covered the eyes over the past six months starts to disappear. As body fat increases the skin starts to smooth out and the unborn child resembles a full term child. If baby is born at this time then the chances of survival are much better.
Eight Month In the eighth month (32 weeks) the fetal weight increases along with length. Baby is now approaching 42 cm (16 inches) in length. Kicking and movement can be felt and the father usually receives a number of kicks from the baby in bed. A foot or arm can also be seen pushing against the mother’s stomach from time to time. This is another exciting time as the parents realize more fully that in a few weeks a new life will arrive.
Ninth Month The ninth month (36 weeks) arrives, and it is at this time the mother feels the most uncomfortable, as it is during this month that the fetus moves into position in readiness for the birth. The fine hair that covered the entire body of the fetus has almost gone and the nails have reached the end of the fingers and toes. The unborn child’s head bones are soft and easily moulded into the shape of the mother’s pelvis. Baby’s weight is now approximately 2.7 kg (5.5 pounds) with a length of 49 cm (18 inches).
The exercises that have been learned during the prenatal classes now become more difficult. It is important to keep them up. For those who did not attend prenatal classes, turn to the exercise section. Some of the important exercises are explained there. The father should also take an active interest and help with these exercises. Remember that it takes two to make a baby and it is important he be involved in everything.
Full term Finally the tenth month (40 weeks), full term and the baby is fully developed and ready to enter the world. This is the time when the suitcases are packed and everybody jumps at the first sign of any pains. Baby is now approximately 55 cm (21.5 inches) in length.
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